I, Hiroshi Nohara, the star of Japanese cinema

Chapter 231 International Perspective! Governor Muto's Shock! The Koyama Family's Farewell Dinner!
When the wooden door of Sakura no Sato Izakaya was pushed open, the afternoon sun at three o'clock slanted down on the cherry blossom tree in front of the door, and pink and white petals fell softly onto the bluestone pavement, carrying a touch of afternoon warmth.

As Hiroshi Nohara took his first step, his wrist was gently grasped by a warm hand—it was Masao Muto.

The official in charge of Kumamoto Prefecture was now only wearing a beige linen shirt, without a tie, and the collar was loosely open, which made him look less serious in his office and more approachable like a commoner.

He held Hiroshi Nohara's hand, his fingertips calloused from years of holding a pen, and said with deep emotion, "Hiroshi-san, these two hours of talking with you today have been more effective than a whole day of meetings at the prefectural government. I always felt that Kumamoto's development was stuck on 'lack of fame,' and I racked my brains trying to figure out how to promote our local products and attractions. But you, with your Kumamon character and your 'IP + tourism' strategy, have opened up a whole new path. You're amazing, truly amazing."

Hiroshi Nohara's tone remained calm, with just the right amount of humility: "Governor, you flatter me too much."

He chuckled as he spoke:
"I just came up with a few ideas based on Kumamoto's existing resources—you see, Kumamoto has the magnificence of Mount Aso, the comfort of Kurokawa Onsen, and delicious food like horse meat sashimi and strawberry daifuku, which gives it the confidence to attract people."

"I'm just using Kumamon, a character that everyone loves, to string together these good things. To really implement them, we still need everyone in the county government to run around and do the legwork. For example, the tourist routes we promoted before wouldn't have been possible without the publicity department contacting tourist attractions and guesthouses."

They had been talking for a long time about the future development of Kumamoto Prefecture, and Hiroshi Nohara had been speaking freely.

"You can't say that."

Muto Masao released his hand, shook his head with a smile, and pointed to Yamada Ichiro next to him, "Ask Yamada, the prefectural government spent 300 million yen on advertising before, which aired for three months, and nobody except in Kumamoto knew about it; but your Kumamon short film only aired twice on TV Tokyo, and the number of tourists visiting Kumamoto on weekends increased by 30%. This is not something that can be achieved with a 'small idea'."

Standing beside him, Yamada Ichiro immediately nodded, his face still showing shock. He subconsciously adjusted his glasses, his tone incredulous: "The governor is right. Hiroshi-san, you just said, 'Southeast Asian tourists are more receptive to regional IPs than we thought. We can cooperate with travel agencies in Thailand and Malaysia to make Kumamon a cross-border tourism symbol.' I really didn't expect that—I was only thinking about promoting it domestically in Japan and never dared to think about overseas. And you said, 'The problem in Japanese society now isn't a lack of opportunities, but that local areas haven't fully developed their unique characteristics. Young people are flocking to Tokyo because their hometowns haven't given them hope.' That's so accurate! My neighbor's son studied design in Tokyo and decided to stay there after graduation, saying, 'I can't find companies in Kumamoto that do IP design; I can only work in small and medium-sized enterprises drawing posters.' Isn't that exactly the problem you were talking about!"

Fujiwara Isshin nodded in agreement, still clutching the small notebook he had been taking notes in, its pages covered in dense writing.

He usually works in administrative roles at the prefectural government and tends to view issues from a policy perspective. But after listening to Hiroshi Nohara talk about the economy and industry today, he realized how narrow-minded he had been: "Hiroshi-san, you said that 'the real estate boom is like a bubble, it looks exciting but it bursts easily, only industries that can retain people are fundamental,' and I completely agree. My colleague's younger brother took out a 50 million yen loan to buy a second-hand house in Tokyo last year, and now he has to pay 200,000 yen in mortgage payments every month. Most of his salary goes into it, and he doesn't even have money for dating. He complains to me every day, 'If only I had gone back to Kumamoto to find a job, at least I could live at home and not have to pay a mortgage.' What you said about developing the tertiary sector, so that young people can have jobs and establish themselves in Kumamoto, that's truly for Kumamoto's good."

Hiroshi Nohara smiled and said nothing more—he knew that these words might be a bit ahead of their time in Japan, but as someone who had experienced the economic crisis of his previous life, he was all too aware of the dangers of a real estate bubble.

Kumamoto hasn't been too deeply affected by the bubble yet. It's better to develop long-term industries like tourism and culture now than to try and fix things after the bubble bursts.

"It's getting late, I should go back to the Koyama family home to pack my luggage. I have to catch a flight back to Tokyo tonight." Hiroshi Nohara glanced at his watch, the hands already pointing to 3:15. "Governor, Department Head Yamada, Isshin-san, thank you for your hospitality today, especially Governor, for taking up so much of your time."

"Why are you so polite!"

Muto Masao patted him on the shoulder, his tone very warm: "From now on, Kumamoto will be your second home. Come back and visit often when you have time. Kobayashi has already written down your contact information. If there are any new ideas in Kumamoto, such as the overseas promotion of Kumamon, I will have him page you as soon as possible. I will need your advice then."

"Definitely." Hiroshi Nohara bowed. "Then I shall take my leave."

"I'll walk you to the door." Muto Masao accompanied him to the parking lot, watching Nohara Hiroshi open the door of the old Toyota, and added, "If you need any help from Kumamoto after you return to Tokyo, don't hesitate to tell me—for example, if your Mirai Manga Club needs Kumamoto materials, the prefectural government can help you contact local photographers and provide photos for free."

"Thank you, Governor." Hiroshi Nohara got into his car, waved goodbye, and said, "Goodbye, everyone."

Muto Masao, Yamada Ichiro, and Fujiwara Isshin stood by the roadside, watching the old Toyota's engine start and slowly merge into the traffic on the street until the car disappeared behind the cherry blossom trees. Only then did they turn around and walk towards the black Toyota minivan next to Sakura no Sato.

The interior of the van was very clean, with dark brown leather seats and a small Kumamon figurine on the center console, a gift from a previous visitor.

Muto Masao sat in the back seat, leaned back, and let out a long sigh, his tone still carrying the excitement from their earlier conversation: "Yamada, you heard it too, Hiroshi-san said 'focusing on people is worse than focusing on real estate,' and that's so true. Now, young people from Kumamoto are all flocking to Tokyo, not because Kumamoto is bad, but because we haven't given them a reason to go—if we can develop the tertiary industry, for example, by developing IP around Kumamon, opening design companies and related factories, and perfecting tourism routes, so that young people can find good jobs in Kumamoto, who would want to go to Tokyo to squeeze onto the subway and pay off huge mortgages?"

Sitting in the passenger seat, Yamada Ichiro turned around and handed a cigarette to Muto, then lit one for himself. The smoke slowly dissipated in the car. "You're right. Last time I went to Osaka for a meeting, I talked to the head of Osaka Prefecture's publicity department. He said that Osaka is facing the same problem now. Young people are all going to Tokyo, and small and medium-sized enterprises in Osaka can't find employees. He also said, 'It would be great if Osaka had a symbol like Kumamon.' I was quite proud at the time, but now that I hear Hiroshi-san say this, I realize that we still have a lot to do."

He took a drag of his cigarette, his tone becoming somewhat heavy: "Just like Hiroshi-san said, the current real estate boom in Japan is a bubble. I have a friend who bought an apartment in Tokyo's Minato Ward for 30 million yen three years ago, and now it's worth 50 million yen. He's always bragging to me about his 'appreciated assets.' But his son is looking for a job in Tokyo, and after interviewing at more than ten companies, either the pay was too low or they wouldn't sign a formal contract. In the end, he had to go back to Kumamoto and get a job as a clerk in a small supermarket. Tell me, what's the use of real estate going up so high if young people don't have jobs?"

Fujiwara Isshin sat next to Muto, still holding the notebook in his hand. He turned to the page on "Real Estate and the Tertiary Industry" that he had just written down and said softly, "Hiroshi-san also said, 'Local governments cannot follow Tokyo's real estate boom; they must preserve their own unique characteristics.' Kumamoto's unique characteristics are its natural scenery and traditional culture. If we follow Tokyo's lead in building high-rises and speculating on housing prices, we will not only fail to retain young people but also lose our own unique characteristics. The prefectural government wanted to build an office building next to Kumamoto Castle before; thankfully, it didn't happen. If it had, it would definitely have affected the tourist experience."

Masao Muto took the cigarette, put it to his lips but didn't light it, and looked out the window at the Kumamoto street scene passing by—Kumamon dolls were displayed in front of the convenience store on the side of the road, and several elementary school students were taking pictures around the dolls, laughing happily.

He suddenly sighed: "You're all right. The real estate faction in the central government advised me before, 'Kumamoto should also build some high-end apartments to attract wealthy people from Tokyo to invest.' Now that I think about it, I'm glad I didn't listen to them. Even if those wealthy people come to invest, they'll just buy houses and leave them there. They won't actually come to live in Kumamoto. Instead, they'll drive up local housing prices, making it even more unaffordable for young people in Kumamoto."

He lit a cigarette, took a puff, and his eyes turned serious: "By the way, Yamada, isn't Hiroshi-san from Koike Ryuichi's faction? I think his way of doing things is very similar to Governor Koike's. Neither of them advocates real estate speculation, and both value the real economy such as culture and tourism."

Yamada Ichiro paused for a moment, then nodded: "You're right. Hiroshi-san, Governor Koike, and Shimazu, the president of TV Tokyo, are all core members of the 'Greater TV Tokyo Faction.' This faction advocates 'suppressing the overheated real estate market and developing the real economy and cultural industries.' Governor Koike previously gave a report to the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, saying, 'Real estate can't put food on the table. What the government should do is ensure that ordinary people have stable jobs, can afford housing, and can experience happiness in life.' This is almost exactly what Hiroshi-san said today."

"No wonder."

Masao Muto nodded thoughtfully, tapping his knee lightly with his fingers: "The struggle between these two factions within the Liberal Democratic Party is getting increasingly fierce. At the last central meeting, a member of the real estate faction said, 'The rise in Tokyo housing prices is proof of economic prosperity, and the Tokyo model should be promoted nationwide.' Governor Koike immediately retorted, 'How many young people in Tokyo can't afford to buy a house and have to rent in the suburbs, commuting three hours every day? This prosperity is fake; it's achieved at the expense of young people's future.' The two almost got into a fight."

Yamada Ichiro echoed, "That's right. Behind the real estate faction are big developers, like Sato Tokugawa of the Kirin Group, who has connections with many members of parliament. Last year, they wanted to build a resort next to Mount Aso in Kumamoto, saying it would 'boost tourism,' but they really just wanted to speculate on land. Luckily, the prefectural government didn't agree; if they had built it, it would have definitely damaged the environment around the volcano."

"Therefore, we in Kumamoto cannot get involved in the factional struggles in Tokyo."

Masao Muto stubbed out his cigarette in the ashtray, his tone firm: "Whether the real estate faction wins or the television faction wins, our primary task is to get things done in Kumamoto. Once they've decided who wins, we'll adjust our strategy accordingly—but for now, it seems that getting closer to the television faction is more beneficial for Kumamoto."

Yamada Ichiro and Fujiwara Isshin both looked at him, waiting for him to continue.

Muto Masao leaned back in his chair, looking out at Kumamoto Castle, his tone becoming very pragmatic: "Even if the real estate faction wins, they won't invest much money in Kumamoto. They only have eyes for big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, thinking that places like Kumamoto have little development potential, at most they'll just build a few apartment buildings and let the developers make some money. But the television faction is different—Hiroshi-san can make Kumamon a hit, and he can help us with more promotion in the future, such as getting TV Tokyo to broadcast more short films about Kumamoto, and having scenes from Kumamoto appear in the Doraemon anime. These are all tangible benefits, attracting more Tokyoites and Osaka residents to Kumamoto for tourism, boosting our economy."

"You're absolutely right!"

Yamada Ichiro immediately chimed in, a smile of agreement on his face: "Last time, TV Tokyo broadcast a short film about Kumamoto's tourism, and the number of tourists visiting Kumamoto Castle increased by 30% over the weekend. The horse meat sashimi at the specialty shops was sold out. If we can have a long-term cooperation with TV Tokyo in the future, Kumamoto's tourism industry will definitely reach new heights."

Fujiwara Isshin nodded in agreement: "Hiroshi-san also said that he wants Mirai Manga to draw a series of manga called 'Kumamon's Travel Diary,' which introduces Kumamoto's attractions and food, and then publish it with Shueisha. If this manga becomes popular, it will definitely attract more young people to Kumamoto—young people nowadays like to read manga, and if they see how fun Kumamoto is in the manga, they will definitely want to come and see it for themselves."

Seeing their excitement, Muto Masao couldn't help but laugh: "So, building a good relationship with Hiroshi-san is only beneficial to Kumamoto. Talking with him for so long today not only clarified Kumamoto's development strategy, but also made connections with the TV station. This trip was definitely worthwhile."

He suddenly remembered something, slapped his thigh, and said with a hint of regret, "I was so busy chatting that I didn't have many drinks at the izakaya. It wasn't enough. Yamada, are you free this afternoon? Let's call up our old buddies from when we worked together at the prefectural government tonight. They all know the situation in Kumamoto. Let's find a place to have a few more drinks and talk about our plans."

Yamada Ichiro immediately nodded: "No problem! I'll call my old friends right away, they'll definitely be willing to come—last time I talked to them about the development of Kumamoto, they even said they wanted to have a good chat with you, Governor."

Muto Masao then looked at Fujiwara Isshin, his tone softening: "Isshin, you shouldn't go back either. Your father, Fujiwara Honmaru-san, is a senior member of the House of Representatives from Kumamoto. He has extensive connections and is familiar with the situation in Kumamoto. Invite him over tonight for a get-together, and we can have a good talk about how to implement Hiroshi-san's ideas."

Fujiwara Isshin was stunned for a moment, then realized what was happening.

Fujimoto Honmaru is a well-known politician in Kumamoto and has a certain influence within the Liberal Democratic Party. Muto Masao invited him over, clearly intending to consolidate Kumamoto's network of connections, pave the way for future work, and possibly even prepare for the next election.

He nodded quickly: "Yes! I'll page my dad right away. He'll definitely come if he knows it was you who invited him."

Muto Masao smiled with satisfaction, leaned back in his chair, and looked at the gradually setting sun outside the window. His tone was full of anticipation: "Great! Let's have a good talk tonight and try to decide on the direction of our work going forward. It's not easy for Kumamoto to have the opportunities it has now. We must seize this opportunity to make Kumamoto even better, to make young people want to stay in Kumamoto, and to let more people know how good Kumamoto is."

The van slowly drove through the streets of Kumamoto. Cherry blossom trees along the roadside cast long shadows in the setting sun, and the Kumamon mascot in front of the convenience store was still waving to passersby.

Yamada Ichiro was on his phone, calling old friends, his voice brimming with excitement: "Hey, old Sato? Are you free tonight? Governor Muto's treating us to drinks, and there's something important to discuss... Yes, it's about the development of Kumamoto, you absolutely have to come..."

Fujiwara Isshin took out his pager and quickly typed on the keyboard, sending a message to his father, Fujiwara Honmaru: "Dad, Governor Muto invites you to dinner tonight at the 'Kumamoto-ya' izakaya next to Sakura no Sato. It's 7 p.m. There's something important to discuss..."

As Muto Masao watched the two of them busy at work, the corners of his mouth unconsciously turned up.

He knew that tonight's gathering was not just an ordinary dinner, but the beginning of his efforts to integrate local resources in Kumamoto and pave the way for the future development of Kumamoto.

And all of this was brought about by that young Tokyo director—Hiroshi Nohara.

“Hiroshi-san…” Muto Masao murmured softly, his eyes full of admiration, “He is truly a remarkable young man. Kumamoto is lucky to have met him.”

The van continued driving forward, the afterglow of the setting sun casting a golden glow on its black body.

Kumamoto Castle in the distance looked particularly magnificent in the sunset, as if witnessing the changes that were about to happen to the city.

Yamada Ichiro hung up the phone and said to Muto Masao with a smile, "Governor, all our old friends have agreed to come. They are all people who fought alongside you in the prefectural government. They have deep feelings for Kumamoto and will definitely be able to help."

Fujiwara Isshin also put away his pager and said, "My dad paged me back and said he'll be there at seven o'clock sharp. He also asked if I wanted him to bring some documents."

"No need to bring any documents, just a casual chat." Masao Muto waved his hand, his tone becoming more relaxed. "Tonight we'll have Kumamoto's specialties and local sake, and chat as we eat. It doesn't have to be so formal. The important thing is to get everyone's ideas aligned and work together for Kumamoto's future."

The van turned a corner and there was the "Kumamoto-ya" izakaya ahead—a decades-old establishment owned by an old acquaintance of Masao Muto, famous for its horse meat sashimi and miso soup in Kumamoto.

Looking at the izakaya's sign, Muto Masao suddenly felt a surge of confidence.

The road ahead may be difficult. We will have to face factional struggles at the central government level, address the issue of young people leaving Kumamoto, and develop the tertiary sector. But as long as we have a group of like-minded people working together and as long as we continue to cooperate with talents like Hiroshi Nohara, Kumamoto will definitely become better.

As the sun gradually sets and night begins to fall over the streets of Kumamoto, the lights of the izakayas come on, and warm light shines through the windows onto the streets, as if waiting for an upcoming lively gathering.

This gathering will also become an important starting point for Kumamoto's future development, planting seeds of hope for the city's tomorrow.

……

At four o'clock in the afternoon in Kumamoto, the setting sun had already dyed the sky a pale orange. The light filtered through the cherry blossom trees in the yard of the Koyama family's house, casting dappled shadows on the bluestone slabs of the entrance hall.

As soon as Hiroshi Nohara closed the door of the old Toyota, he heard the sound of wooden clogs clattering inside the house—Yoshiji Koyama practically rushed out as he stepped on the door closing, clutching half a dorayaki in his hand, his apron covered in flour, clearly having been busy in the kitchen.

"Hiroshi! I've been waiting for you to come back!"

Yoshiharu Koyama walked up to him in a few steps, his eyes sparkling, his tone full of barely suppressed curiosity: "How did your chat with Governor Muto go? Nothing went wrong, right? He's the governor of Kumamoto, the father of millions of people. You have to be careful what you say, don't act like you're at home..."

Hiroshi Nohara nodded and smiled as he took off his shoes, his fingertips still damp with the cool evening breeze from outside the car: "Uncle, don't worry, the conversation went very smoothly. The governor mainly asked about the future IP development of Kumamon, as well as the involvement of Mirai Manga Studio in character design, and everything is almost finalized. He also said that he will send the appointment letter for 'Kumamoto Prefecture Cultural Advisor' to Tokyo next week, and he will contact me first if there are any new promotional plans in Kumamoto."

"Cultural advisor!" Yoshiharu Koyama nearly dropped the dorayaki in his hand. He quickly gripped it tightly, his voice filled with astonishment: "This is an official appointment letter from the prefectural government! The biggest moment of my life was twenty years ago when I was the head of the teaching department at a middle school, meeting the director of the prefectural education bureau—you wouldn't believe how nervous I was, my palms were sweating so much I forgot how to greet him, and in the end, the director had to shake my hand first. And you, you're chatting so enthusiastically with the governor and even got an appointment letter, truly... truly the younger generation surpasses the older!"

"You're just envious." Koyama Koya came out of the kitchen carrying a celadon teacup, steam rising from the rim. She smiled and handed the cup to Hiroshi. "Hiroshi is capable, he's not afraid of anyone. But you, you get nervous when you see the director of the education bureau, and you still have the nerve to call yourself a 'veteran educator'."

"That's out of respect!"

Yoshiharu Koyama immediately retorted, straightening his back ramrod straight: "The director of the education bureau oversees all the schools in the city, he's a big shot! Back then, I represented our Kumamoto Junior High School to receive the 'Outstanding Educational Unit' award, how could I not be nervous? Unlike Hiroshi, who now sees the governor like he's seeing an old friend, even daring to mention the development plan for the tertiary industry to the governor. I didn't have that kind of boldness when I was young."

Misae, standing next to him, couldn't help but laugh. She was still holding the Doraemon drawings she hadn't finished working on that afternoon, and her light purple pajamas made her skin look even whiter.

Her cheeks were flushed slightly from the laughter: "Dad, Hiroshi-kun wasn't just talking like he was meeting an old friend. He was very serious when he was talking to the governor. Isshin-san said that in the prefectural government's reception room, Hiroshi-kun even drew up a tourist route map with Minister Yamada. He even came up with the idea of ​​'setting up Kumamon photo spots at each attraction, where tourists can collect stamps to exchange for souvenirs.' Minister Yamada said at the time, 'This idea is even more detailed than the one the advisors sent from the central government have come up with.'"

She leaned closer to Hiroshi, her eyes filled with admiration, and said in a soft voice, "I used to think that Hiroshi-kun was already amazing enough for making 'Seven Samurai' and drawing 'Midnight Diner,' but I never expected that even Governor Muto would recognize you so much... Sometimes I feel like I'm dreaming. Last year you were just an ordinary director at TV Tokyo, but now you've become a cultural advisor for Kumamoto and can even talk to the governor about the future of Kumamoto."

Hiroshi Nohara took the teacup, his fingertips touching the warm rim. Looking into Misae's bright eyes, his tone softened unconsciously.

He said with a smile, "It's just good luck that we encountered an opportunity to perform. If it weren't for such a good foundation as Kumamoto—with the scenery of Mount Aso, the comfort of Kurokawa Onsen, and the support of our uncles and aunts, Kumamon wouldn't have become so popular. Besides, the fact that the manga company can participate in IP development in the future is also your own ability. Last time when you colored 'Midnight Diner,' editor Tadokoro even praised me for handling the details better than professional companies."

"Alright, alright, stop chatting at the door, come in quickly." Gao Ya pulled Hiroshi towards the living room: "I've prepared some local specialties for you, all good stuff from Kumamoto. Take them back and share them with your colleagues in Tokyo."

Several paper packages were already laid out on the low table in the living room. Gao Ya opened them one by one and showed them to Guangzhi: "This is strawberry daifuku that I just made yesterday. It's made with strawberries from the foot of Mount Aso, so it's especially sweet. This is horse meat jerky from 'Sato-ya' at the end of the alley. It's an old brand and goes best with sake. And this is pickled vegetable. I pickled it myself using small cucumbers that are unique to Kumamoto. It's especially delicious with rice. You can put it in the refrigerator, and it will last a long time."

Hiroshi Nohara looked at the things on the table. Each paper package was neatly folded and had a small note attached to it that read "Strawberry Daifuku (refrigerate for 3 days)" and "Horse Meat Jerky (store at room temperature)". It was obviously specially marked by Takaya.

His heart warmed instantly: "Auntie, you've gone to so much trouble. You're always so busy when you come. Actually, you don't need to bring so much. I can buy Kumamoto specialties in Tokyo."

"Can what you buy be the same?"

Yoshiji Koyama sat on the cushion next to him, took a sip of tea, and said with a hint of pride, "This tastes like home! The strawberry daifuku you bought in Tokyo might actually be from Osaka; the horse jerky might be frozen too. Nothing beats the fresh local produce. Besides, you've done Kumamoto such a big favor, even Governor Muto praised you as 'Kumamoto's benefactor.' What's wrong with me, as an elder, bringing you some local specialties?"

He paused, then scratched his head a little embarrassedly: "But then again, these things are really worthless, nothing compared to the Tokyo TV commemorative badges you gave me before—I was showing off to my old friends who played chess in the park last time, and they all envied me for having such a 'capable junior' like you, who can even get Tokyo TV souvenirs."

"Uncle, what are you saying?"

Hiroshi Nohara shook his head, his tone earnest: "How can you measure the sentiment with money? The tonkotsu soup Auntie made last time was even better than the most famous izakaya in Tokyo; the shogi you taught me, I can now beat Director Eiji Kurosawa twice. These things that carry the warmth of home are more precious than anything else."

Yoshiharu Koyama beamed, put down his teacup, and slapped his thigh: "Well said! Hiroshi really knows how to talk! By the way, I know your flight is at 11 pm, so I specially booked the 'Takeya' izakaya near the airport. Our family will go there for dinner tonight as a farewell dinner for you and Misae. I've already called Masae and Isshin. She said her school activities end at 5 pm, and Isshin will drive to pick her up; Yume will also go directly there after school, so we don't need to wait."

"Wow! Is that 'Bamboo House'?" Misae's eyes lit up. "I went there with Yumiya last time. Their grilled mackerel was especially delicious, and their miso soup had such tender tofu!"

“That’s right!” Yoshiharu Koyama smiled smugly. “The owner is a parent of one of my former students. He’s been running an izakaya for thirty years, so the taste is absolutely authentic. I specifically told him I wanted a window seat so I could see the planes taking off at the airport. It would be so much fun to eat while watching the planes take off.”

Hiroshi Nohara quickly said, "This is too much trouble. Your aunt and uncle are already busy, and they even booked an izakaya for us... We can just eat at home, there's no need to go to so much trouble."

"What's the point of spending money!"

Yoshiharu Koyama waved his hand, deliberately putting on a stern face, but he couldn't hide the smile in his eyes: "You're our family's future son-in-law, so we'll be family from now on. Isn't it only right to see you off? Besides, you've done Kumamoto such a big favor this time, and Governor Muto personally thanked you. As an elder, I should have a good drink with you and chat about your life in Tokyo."

“Dad! Why are you bringing this up again…” Misae’s cheeks flushed instantly at the mention of “future son-in-law.” She quickly lowered her head, twisting the hem of her clothes with her fingers, her voice barely audible. Takasae and Yoshiji Koyama both laughed, and Hiroshi Nohara joined in. The warm yellow light from the living room bathed them in a cozy glow.

……

As the sun gradually sank behind the mountains, the streetlights in Kumamoto slowly lit up, and the warm yellow light shone through the windows into the living room of Koyama's house.

Around six o'clock, the sound of car brakes came from the doorway. Misae was the first to jump up: "It must be Big Sister and Isshin-san coming back!"

She ran to the door and saw Zhenya get out of a black county government car. She was still wearing her school's light gray uniform jacket, her hair was casually tied back, and she was holding a folder in her hand.

Fujiwara Isshin was still wearing that navy blue suit, holding a briefcase, and was helping Masaya put the folder into the car. When he saw Misaya, he smiled and nodded: "Good afternoon, Misaya-san."

"Big sister! Isshin-san!" Misae ran over and took the folder from Masae: "How did the school activities go? Were you late?"

"It went smoothly, and it was over by five o'clock. Isshin-san came to pick me up early, so I wasn't late."

Maya ruffled Misae's hair, her gaze falling on Hiroshi Nohara behind her, and said with a smile, "Hiroshi-san, I heard you had a good chat with Governor Muto today? Isshin told me everything, and the governor even specifically mentioned that he wants Mirai Manga Club to participate in the design of Kumamon merchandise."

Hiroshi Nohara nodded: "Yes, it's been finalized. The prefectural government will send someone to meet with Misae next week. If you need any materials, you can ask the prefectural government's publicity department."

Fujiwara Isshin walked over, holding a small notebook, clearly having just finished taking notes: "Hiroshi-san, after talking with the governor today, I met with the public relations department and wrote down what you said about the 'overseas promotion plan.' They said they want to first collaborate with travel agencies in Thailand and Malaysia to broadcast Kumamon short films on local tourism channels, and they also want Mirai Manga to draw a series called 'Kumamon's Southeast Asian Travelogue.' What do you think?"

"That's a great idea."

Hiroshi Nohara thought for a moment: "Southeast Asian tourists like cute characters, and Kumamon's style fits their aesthetic perfectly. The manga can depict more cultural interactions between Kumamon and Southeast Asia, such as Kumamon taking photos with elephants in Thailand or making nasi lemak with locals in Malaysia. This will not only promote Kumamon but also make local tourists feel a sense of familiarity."

Yoshiharu Koyama listened attentively, nodding repeatedly, and couldn't help but exclaim, "I don't understand any of what you're talking about, but it's impressive. Back when I was the head of student affairs, I mostly talked to teachers from other schools about how to teach students. Unlike you guys, you're talking about 'overseas promotion' and 'IP design.' Times have really changed."

“Dad, if you’re interested, I can tell you more about it later.” Masaya said with a smile, “For example, how much Kumamon merchandise has sold, how much the number of tourists has increased, you’ll definitely understand those things.”

Just then, light footsteps came from the doorway. Mengya, carrying her schoolbag, skipped in, the Kumamon keychain hanging from it swaying back and forth: "I'm back! Second sister, brother-in-law, I just saw the Kumamon toy car at the school gate. Lots of kids were taking pictures of it, and I even shook hands with it!"

She ran up to Hiroshi Nohara and held up her hand like a treasure: "Look, I still have a Kumamon sticker in my hand, the staff gave it to me!"

Hiroshi Nohara looked at the pink Kumamon sticker on the back of her hand and said with a smile, "So cute. If Yumeya likes it, I'll have the prefectural government send you more stickers next time."

"Really? That's great!" Mengya jumped up excitedly. "I'm going to stick the stickers on my textbook so all my classmates will envy me!"

Gao Ya patted her back with a smile: "Alright, alright, stop jumping. We should go to the izakaya. The owner will be getting impatient if we don't go soon."

So the two cars drove out of the alley of the Koyama family one after the other. Fujiwara Isshin was driving the black Toyota official car of the prefectural government, with Koyama Yoshiharu in the passenger seat and Nohara Hiroshi in the back seat.

Masaya drives the family's white Honda, with Takaya next to her in the driver's seat and Misaya and Yumeya in the back seat.

As night deepened, the cherry blossom trees lining the streets shimmered softly under the streetlights. Occasionally, one could see Kumamon plush toys displayed in front of convenience stores, with children holding their parents' hands and excitedly pointing at the toys.

Fujiwara Isshin gripped the steering wheel, his gaze occasionally sweeping over Nohara Hiroshi in the rearview mirror, his tone full of admiration: "Hiroshi-san, Governor Muto told us in his office today that he particularly approves of your idea of ​​'Kumamon + agricultural products,' and said he would have the prefectural government's agricultural department implement it as soon as possible—for example, printing Kumamon designs on strawberries and oranges, making them into gift boxes, and selling them in Tokyo. The governor also said that you are 'Kumamoto's benefactor,' and without you, Kumamoto wouldn't have achieved its current development."

Sitting in the passenger seat, Yoshiji Koyama immediately straightened up upon hearing this, his tone full of pride: "That's right! Governor Muto's praise is spot on! Hiroshi is no ordinary person! Back in Kumamoto, I felt that this kid was composed and much more mature than young people his age, and now it seems that I was right!"

He paused, then sighed, "It's funny, I used to think that young people were too young to achieve anything great, but Hiroshi is only in his early twenties and he has already accomplished so much—'Yamishibai,' 'Tales of the Unusual,' and 'Seven Samurai,' which one of them isn't a masterpiece? It seems that age really isn't a problem; talent is the real skill."

Hiroshi Nohara leaned back in the back seat, looking at the street scene flashing by outside the window, and said softly, "Uncle, you flatter me. I was just lucky to have encountered good opportunities. For example, at TV Tokyo, Director Sakata and Deputy Director Asumi were very supportive of me, allowing me to do my programs freely; and senior Eiji Kurosawa taught me a lot about film. Without them, I wouldn't have been able to create these works."

"You're just being too modest."

Yoshiharu Koyama glanced back at him, shook his head with a smile, and said, "Luck is also part of ability. If you don't have the ability, you won't be able to seize the opportunity. Take our company's old Sato, for example. Last time, the prefectural government gave him a quota to make Kumamon merchandise, but he made the doll crookedly and it was returned in the end. That's what happens when you have the opportunity but not the ability."

Fujiwara Isshin nodded in agreement: "Yoshiji-san is right. Hiroshi-san is not only talented but also very visionary. For example, you reminded Governor Muto to pay attention to the real estate bubble and to develop the tertiary industry. This is not something that ordinary people would think of. Now, young people in Kumamoto are all going to Tokyo. If we can do as you say and develop the tourism and cultural industries so that young people can have jobs and establish themselves in Kumamoto, Kumamoto will definitely get better and better in the future."

The car drove along the coastal highway, the distant sea surface was dyed golden red by the setting sun, and the sea breeze blew through the car window, carrying a slightly salty and damp smell.

Looking out at the sea view, Yoshiji Koyama suddenly sighed: "If only Kumamoto had such good development opportunities when I was young. Back then, I just wanted to be a teacher, which I thought was stable. Now I realize that people should have some ambition and do something that can make their hometown better—like you, Hiroshi."

"It's not too late for Uncle."

Hiroshi Nohara said with a smile, "You are now the president of Kumamon Culture Company. You are busy promoting Kumamon every day and boosting the economy of Kumamoto. This is doing things for your hometown, which is better than many other people."

Yoshiji Koyama's eyes lit up, and he straightened his back a bit more: "You're right! I'm full of energy every day now, and I feel like I'm several years younger—when you come back to Kumamoto next time, Hiroshi, I'll take you to see our company's factory. They're making Kumamon keychains and badges right now, and they're selling really well!"

Fujiwara Isshin watched the two chatting amiably and a smile appeared on his lips.

As the car approached the airport, the streetlights along the roadside lit up one by one, their warm yellow light illuminating the road ahead.

In particular, when Yoshiji Koyama thought about how he had started registering a company and overseeing the design of Kumamon's image, IP development, and the quality of the figures these past few days, he rediscovered that feeling of power.

Thinking about it now, it's all thanks to my two future sons-in-law, and I couldn't be happier.

……

Meanwhile, the atmosphere in the white sedan behind was also exceptionally lively.

Koyama Takaya sat in the passenger seat, glancing back at Misae and Yumeya in the back every now and then, her tone full of concern: "Misa, when you get back to Tokyo, you have to talk to Hiroshi about it. The two families should get together sometime this weekend. Your dad has already contacted Hiroshi's parents by pager. They live in Omagari City. Although it's a bit far from Tokyo, it's only a three-hour ride on the Shinkansen, so it's very convenient."

Misae sat in the back seat, clutching a small Kumamon plush toy in her hand, her cheeks still a little red: "I know, Mom. I'll talk to Hiroshi about it after he finishes working on the Doraemon anime adaptation."

"What are we waiting for? Let's finish this!"

Koyama Koya frowned, her tone a little urgent: "We need to hurry up with this! Look at your older sister, she's engaged to Ichishin-san and they're getting married next year. You can't fall too far behind. Hiroshi is a good kid, talented, with good character, and he's so good to you. You can only dream of a man like him. We need to settle things down sooner rather than later, lest things get complicated."

"Mom!" Misae's face turned even redder, and she quickly covered her face with her doll: "How could you say that..."

"Second sister is just shy!" Mengya, who was sitting next to her, suddenly leaned over, holding a Doraemon manga in her hand, her eyes crinkling into crescent moons with laughter. "I know what second sister is thinking. She definitely wants to watch Doraemon with her husband in their Tokyo apartment, eat strawberry daifuku together, and enjoy some alone time, right?"

"Yumeya!" Misae reached out to tickle her. "If you keep talking nonsense, I won't bring you any more Tokyo manga!"

"Oh dear! I was wrong, Second Sister!" Mengya laughed and dodged away, but still wouldn't give up: "But if Second Sister gets married, I want to be a flower girl! I also want my brother-in-law to draw a special Doraemon wedding episode, with Nobita as the best man and Shizuka as the bridesmaid, and Doraemon using the Anywhere Door to send everyone to the wedding venue, how interesting!"

Koyama Takaya watched the two sisters playfully bickering and couldn't help but laugh: "Mengya's idea is good. We can have Hiroshi draw a set and print them into invitations. That would be very special. By the way, Misae, how big is Hiroshi's apartment in Tokyo? Is it big enough for you two? If not, your dad and I can chip in some money and help you get a bigger one—our family may not be super rich, but we can't let you suffer in Tokyo."

“Mom, no need.” Misae stopped playing and said seriously, “Hiroshi’s apartment has two bedrooms and a living room, and a small balcony. It’s enough for us to live in. And Hiroshi said that when the manga company does well in the future, he wants to buy me a car so that it will be convenient for me to go to work.”

"That's good, that's good." Koyama Takaya breathed a sigh of relief, then added, "But you should also take good care of Hiroshi. He's busy with work and often stays up late to finish programs and draw comics. If you have time in the evening, cook him some miso soup or red bean soup to nourish his body. It's not easy for men to work hard outside, so someone at home needs to take care of him."

“I know.” Misae nodded gently, her eyes full of tenderness: “Last time Hiroshi was drawing manga in Kumamoto and stayed up until 2 a.m., I cooked him a bowl of tonkotsu soup. He said it was delicious and that he wanted to drink my soup every day from now on.”

"Ah! That's right!" Koyama Takaya laughed even more happily: "Women, you have to win a man's stomach to win his heart. You and your dad have been married for so many years, and I've been making him his favorite tempura every day, that's why he's so good to me."

"Mom, what era are we living in? Why are you still talking about this?"

While driving, Misae Koyama couldn't help but turn around and chime in, her tone tinged with helplessness yet also full of amusement: "But Misae, although Hiroshi seems calm, he's actually very thoughtful. When you get along with him, you should communicate with him more. For example, when he's busy, don't get angry with him. Wait until he's free before telling him your thoughts—men are sometimes like children, they need to be coaxed."

"Big sister is right." Misae nodded. "I'll be careful."

“See, this is the benefit of communication.” Koyama Maya smiled. “Also, Hiroshi is a public figure, and there will definitely be reporters following him in the future. You need to be mentally prepared and not have conflicts with him over these small things. When I was working part-time at the prefectural government, I saw many celebrity families who got divorced because they couldn’t stand being followed by reporters. It’s such a pity.”

"I understand, big sister. I'll be careful." Misae's tone was firm. "I believe in Hiroshi, and I believe in our relationship. It won't be affected by these little things."

"That's good."

Koyama Takaya nodded in satisfaction, then, remembering something, took out a red cloth bag from his purse and handed it to Misae: "This is a talisman I prepared for you. I got it from a shrine next to Kumamoto Castle. It's for your safety. If you carry it with you, everything will go smoothly, whether you're living in Tokyo or with Hiroshi."

Misae took the cloth bag, which was warm to the touch and embroidered with small cherry blossom patterns. She clutched it tightly in her hand, her eyes a little red: "Thank you, Mom."

"Don't be so polite with Mom." Koyama Takaya ruffled her hair. "When you go back to Tokyo, remember to call home often. Although cell phones are expensive now, it's more convenient to use a landline. If your dad and I miss you, we'll take the Shinkansen to Tokyo to see you and also check out Hiroshi's apartment and help you tidy it up."

“Okay.” Misae’s voice was a little choked up, but she still nodded with a smile. “I will call home often and tell you about things at the company, such as the design drafts for Kumamon merchandise drawn by Kobayashi-san and Sato-san’s new manga ideas, so you can rest assured.”

Seeing her sister's touched expression, Mengya stopped joking and gently tugged at Meiya's sleeve: "Second sister, if you suffer any injustices in Tokyo, come back to Kumamoto. Mom, Dad, and I are waiting for you. Also, don't forget to bring me some Tokyo manga, especially the latest volume of Yu Yu Hakusho. My classmates at school are all waiting for me to borrow it!"

"I know, I won't forget." Misae couldn't help but smile and reached out to pat Yumiya's head.

As the car crossed the airport bridge, the brightly lit airport terminal in the distance resembled a lighthouse standing in the darkness.

Looking at the road ahead, Koyama Maya said softly, "We're almost at the izakaya. Let's have a good chat with Hiroshi tonight, as a way of saying goodbye to them."

Koyama Takaya nodded, looking at the night view outside the window, her tone full of anticipation: "I hope Hiroshi and Misae are doing well in Tokyo, and I hope Misae's manga company will continue to thrive, and Hiroshi's career will reach new heights—our kids are all great."

Misae leaned against the car window, watching the lights flash by outside, her heart filled with warmth.

She knew that no matter what difficulties she encountered in Tokyo, her family would always be her support, and Hiroshi would be there for her through thick and thin.

As the car approached the "Sakura Saki" izakaya, the lanterns at the entrance shone with a warm yellow light, bearing the words "Sakura Saki," creating a particularly cozy atmosphere.

Fujiwara Isshin's car was already parked at the entrance, and Nohara Hiroshi and Koyama Yoshiji were standing there waiting for them.

Misae got out of the car and looked at Hiroshi Nohara not far away. He was wearing a suit, standing in the light of the lanterns, with a gentle smile on his lips, waving at her.

She walked quickly over, took his arm, and whispered, "Hiroshi-kun, we've arrived."

"Yes, we're here." Hiroshi Nohara took her hand, his fingertips warm to the touch. "Let's have a good meal tonight, as a proper farewell to Kumamoto."

Seeing the two being so intimate, Yoshiji Koyama couldn't help but laugh: "Alright, alright, stop standing at the door. The izakaya owner is waiting for us. There's freshly grilled mackerel and Kumamoto sake inside. Let's drink until we drop tonight!"

"Okay! Let's drink until we drop!" Mengya shouted excitedly, grabbing Zhenya's hand and running into the izakaya.

Koyama Takaya watched the children's retreating figures, smiled, shook his head, and followed them into the izakaya. The lanterns at the entrance swayed gently, casting long shadows that blended into the warm and hopeful night of Kumamoto.

The izakaya was lit with warm, soft yellow light, and the air was filled with the aroma of grilled mackerel and the rich fragrance of sake.

The owner, a man in his fifties wearing a white chef's uniform, greeted them with a smile as they entered: "Fangzhi-san, you're here! I specially saved the best seats for you and even grilled your favorite horse meat skewers. Please have a seat!"

Yoshiji Koyama smiled and nodded, leading everyone to sit down by the window.

Hiroshi Nohara looked at the menu, which featured Kumamoto specialties: grilled horse meat, tempura, miso soup, strawberry daifuku, and local Kumamoto sake.

He looked up at Misae and asked with a smile, "What would you like to eat?"

"I want grilled horse meat and strawberry daifuku!" Misae said without hesitation, her eyes sparkling.

"Okay, then let's order grilled horse meat, strawberry daifuku, a serving of tempura, and a pot of sake." Hiroshi Nohara closed the menu and handed it to the owner. "Boss, please hurry up and bring it out, we have to catch a flight in a bit."

"Okay! Coming right away!" the boss replied with a smile, turning and walking into the kitchen.

Looking at the wine glasses on the table, Yoshiji Koyama couldn't help but sigh, "Time flies. Hiroshi, when you first came to Kumamoto, you were just a young man from Tokyo, and now you're going back to Tokyo to be a cultural advisor. But that's okay, come back often. Kumamoto will always be your home."

“I will, Uncle.” Hiroshi Nohara raised his glass. “Come on, let’s have a drink to thank everyone for taking care of me these past few days.”

"Cheers!" Everyone raised their glasses, the crisp clinking sound echoing in the izakaya, bathed in warm yellow light, creating a particularly cozy atmosphere.

As night deepens outside the window, the shadows of cherry blossom trees sway gently under the lights. Laughter, conversations, and the sizzling sounds of grilling meat coming from the kitchen of the izakaya intertwine to create the warmest scene of a night in Kumamoto.

Hiroshi Nohara looked at the people around him, his heart filled with gratitude—to have met such good family and friends in this world was his greatest fortune.

He knew that many things awaited him after returning to Tokyo: the anime adaptation of "Doraemon," the casting for the live-action version of "Midnight Diner," and the TV campaign...

But he also knows that no matter what difficulties he encounters, there will always be a group of people supporting him, and this warmth from Kumamoto will always accompany him toward a brighter future.

(End of this chapter)