Tokyo Three Generations

It was from that time that "Tang inkstones" profoundly influenced Japanese calligraphy and stationery culture, and they remain highly valued cultural relics to this day.

Toyokawa Shoko sent a Tang Dynasty inkstone as a gift for her visit, which was far too extravagant.

Having navigated the political arena for decades, Takasaki Jun was used to all sorts of dramatic situations and had long since developed a calm and composed demeanor. But this time, he was still taken aback.

It was obvious that Miss Toyokawa hadn't just bought a gift on a whim; she had taken one from her own collection.

The girl in front of me casually produced such an expensive gift; she truly deserves to be the next head of a conglomerate… she's incredibly extravagant.

This shows a lot of sincerity.

This gift touched his heart, making it difficult for him to refuse.

"Thank you, Miss Xiangzi." He then composed himself and thanked Toyokawa Xiangzi earnestly, "You've given me such a valuable gift; I'm really struggling to figure out how to reciprocate..."

"First of all, please don't call me Miss Xiangzi anymore, just call me Xiangzi..." Fengchuan Xiangzi was slightly pleased with herself, but on the surface she still maintained a respectful demeanor. "Although these things are valuable, they don't serve any purpose lying in our family's collection. Neither Grandpa nor Father rarely use them. So I think, rather than letting them be buried in the dust, it's better to send them to a place where they can be valued and put to good use."

"And what about you, Miss Xiangzi? Do you use it regularly?" The old man was visibly more excited upon receiving such a generous gift. He couldn't help but ask, "If you also appreciate calligraphy, we can discuss it in detail."

"Well..." Shoko Toyokawa, who had been beaming just moments before, choked up, a hint of embarrassment flashing across her face. "I don't usually deal with these things... My family just wants me to have a basic understanding."

Compared to those wealthy families that value tradition, the Toyokawa family, although it has several generations of heritage and can be considered part of the old money, leans more towards a "Western" lifestyle. Family members usually wear Western clothes, eat Western food, and drive Western cars, and their lifestyle is extremely Westernized.

Under such family traditions, although Toyokawa Shoko received the upbringing of a young lady from a young age, she knew little about these traditional cultural things. It was already difficult enough for her to recognize all the commonly used Chinese characters, let alone calligraphy and literature. Now, if someone were to ask her about them abruptly, she would indeed be unable to answer.

The old man's expression darkened slightly.

He wouldn't look down on Xiangzi because of this, but he felt that if the next generation was already so unfamiliar with traditional culture, the country would definitely cease to exist.

"Alas, Japan is doomed..." He couldn't help but sigh again, as usual.

Jun Takasaki had never been a fan of his grandfather's old-fashioned thinking, and seeing Shoko's embarrassment, he couldn't help but step in to help her out.

“If you don’t know how, you don’t know how. It’s not a big deal.” He then interjected, “My grandfather forced me to practice calligraphy since I was a child. Although I have achieved some success, it’s not very useful. I don’t use it in my studies or daily life. It’s just a personal hobby.”

Seeing that Jun had come to her rescue, Toyokawa Shoko gave him a grateful look, and then she smiled and made a suggestion.

"Is Junya good at these things? Then... can we take a look?"

“Of course…” Takasaki Jun smiled kindly, a hint of pride flashing in his eyes. “I have a room here where he keeps his things from when he was little. Let me show you—”

So the old man led the children to a room next to his bedroom.

Upon opening the door, you'll find the room filled with items: cartoon doodles, various game cartridges, certificates and medals from his school days, and a large number of calligraphy practice books—all of which belong to Jun Takasaki from his childhood.

Everything was clearly categorized and neatly organized, almost like a condensed history of growth.

Seeing how solemnly his grandfather packed away his things, Jun Takasaki suddenly felt a surge of emotion.

The girls opened their eyes wide, looking at all the items in the room, and were immediately overwhelmed.

Toyokawa Shoko's gaze fell upon a calligraphy scroll in the center.

The words "经世致用" (meaning "to apply knowledge to practical use") are written on it.

The predecessor of Heisei Ken was Keiseikai, a faction founded by Takeshita Noboru, the chief disciple of Tanaka Kakuei and the successor of the Tanaka school. The name means "practical application of knowledge."

Therefore, "practical application of knowledge" became the motto and guiding principle of the faction. When Jun Takasaki completed his apprenticeship under his grandfather's supervision, he used these four words as a memento.

The four characters are upright yet carry a hint of sharpness, making them pleasing to the eye.

"It's so well written... Jun is really amazing." Toyokawa Shoko exclaimed softly, although she didn't really understand the difference between good and bad, she just thought it was good. "Grandpa, can I have this?"

“Of course… Xiangzi.” Takasaki Jun immediately agreed.

54. The guests and hosts enjoyed themselves immensely.

"Of course... Xiangzi."

After receiving the old man's permission, Toyokawa Shoko immediately beamed with joy.

However, she didn't take the calligraphy directly. Someone would frame it for her, pack it up, and deliver it to her.

She then turned her attention to other things in the room and asked about the origins of the certificates and medals.

Takasaki Jun stood happily beside the three girls, carefully explaining each item from memory.

He was incredibly proud of his grandson, so he introduced him even more earnestly than Jun Takasaki himself, his excitement making Jun Takasaki feel a little ashamed and embarrassed.

After the old man's explanation, the girls finally had a direct understanding of Chun's previous school experience, and they couldn't help but marvel at it.

"So, Jun was at the top of his class from elementary school all the way through, even served as student council president, and finally passed the Tokyo University entrance exam!"

Finally, Toyokawa Shoko exclaimed in surprise, then looked at Takasaki Jun with astonishment, as if she were seeing him in a new light.

"Chun, why didn't you tell us about these things?"

"What's there to say? I don't like to brag." Jun Takasaki said nonchalantly. "Besides, the past is the past, there's nothing worth bringing it up again."

Although he didn't care, Takasaki Jun next to him looked very proud.

“Chun has been so outstanding since he was a child… You don’t know how many old friends and old rivals have told me that I am blessed with good fortune and that my family business has a successor.”

Since the Meiji Restoration, Japan has implemented a responsible cabinet system. However, in the early imperial era, the prime ministers were mainly the meritorious officials of the Restoration and nobles, and commoners had no chance of becoming prime ministers. It was not until 1918 (50 years after the Restoration) that Hara Takashi was appointed prime minister and formed a cabinet, and a "commoner prime minister" truly appeared.

However, in the postwar era, with the brief window of opportunity when class barriers were broken down, politicians from commoner backgrounds gradually entered the political arena based on their talents and took a dominant position.

During this period, numerous highly educated elites became prime ministers, with more than 10 of them being graduates of the University of Tokyo, such as Shigeru Yoshida, Eisaku Sato, and Takeo Fukuda.

However, as the postwar wealth distribution pattern gradually stabilized and social classes solidified again, the first generation of postwar elites gradually withdrew from the political arena, the era of "appointing based solely on merit" came to an end, and bloodline succession became the main theme in politics once again.

Those second- and third-generation politicians who enter politics by virtue of their parents' and grandparents' legacy and have abundant resources from a young age naturally find it difficult to maintain the hard work and fighting spirit of their predecessors, and their abilities in various aspects gradually "deteriorate".

Or rather, their main focus has shifted to balancing relationships and distributing benefits, and they no longer need to work on exam questions.

Education level is one of the specific manifestations of this deterioration. Since the 90s, a large number of second-generation politicians have taken over, and the average education level has declined significantly. There are very few prime ministers who graduated from prestigious universities, and the current prime minister graduated from the third-rate Seongkei University.

In this environment, it is truly remarkable that Jun Takasaki, as a third-generation descendant, was able to work hard in school and even get into the University of Tokyo. This was something his parents and grandfather could be proud of.

Because the whole family regarded him as their pride, he was given special attention and training before he was even 20 years old, and he was even allowed to represent the family at the Toyokawa family's funeral.

However, his efforts ended there.

As for what happens after he gets accepted? Since he doesn't need to worry about employment, he can basically relax and slack off. He doesn't spend most of his time studying; he's just happy to barely graduate.

Ultimately, no matter what degree he has, he can immediately get a job at a big company after graduation to enhance his resume, and then after a few years he can go home to be a secretary and inherit the family business.

Although Jun Takasaki himself didn't take it too seriously, Shoko Toyokawa seemed to think it was a completely different story.

Because she also aspires to get into Tokyo University.

It's not about coveting a diploma, but about a desire for self-satisfaction and self-realization.

Since you've already read it, why not do your best?

In this situation, she suddenly realized that Jun Takasaki was already ahead of her on her journey, and had even reached the finish line.

Presumably, Jun shared the same thoughts as me, which is why he persevered until he finally gained admission to the University of Tokyo...

How could someone's thoughts be so aligned with hers... She looked at Takasaki Jun, her eyes seemingly sparkling.

I must become his successor.

"Cough..." Just then, a soft cough from beside Xiangzi interrupted Xiangzi's reverie.

Shoko Toyokawa realized she had lost her composure, and to cover it up, she quickly turned around and saw that it was Motoyo Nagasaki who had interrupted her.

“I always knew Jun was amazing, but witnessing it firsthand today, I realized I underestimated him…” Nagasaki Motoyo winked at Shoko, then continued with a composed expression, “Grandpa, thank you for your guidance. I will definitely take him as my role model and strive to improve my studies…”

However, she bowed solemnly to the old man again, "Moreover... my mother and I have depended on each other since I was a child. This time she encountered a great calamity, and without your help, the consequences would have been unimaginable... Therefore, I have always been extremely grateful for your care of my mother. I have already vowed in my heart that I will enter the most prestigious university in the future and become an asset to the Takasaki family. Grandpa, I also hope that you can give me a job when the time comes so that I can fulfill this wish, is that alright?"

After she finished speaking, she raised her head and looked at the old man with a sincere expression.

She was already gentle and lovely in appearance, but now her face was full of pleading. Even an old man who had seen a lot in life couldn't help but feel a sense of pity for her.

Moreover, he could tell that the girl was absolutely serious.

That's why he couldn't bear to disappoint them.

So he nodded, and then spoke gently. "You're a good child, it's rare to find someone with such a heart. Well, don't worry, if you really can keep your vow, our family will definitely open our doors and give you a place... Of course, don't take this as a constraint or an order. Your mother's matter is only her personal matter, you don't owe us anything. We welcome you if you come, and if you change your mind, you can always find another job. Wherever you are, I believe I can see the day you shine brightly in society... Heh, provided I'm alive by then."

"Please don't say such things," Nagasaki Motoyo exclaimed anxiously. "You'll definitely live to be a hundred!"

"Life and death are predestined. I'm already very content to have lived to this age." The old man waved his hand, smiling as he stopped her. "Anyway, I have no regrets. I'll just leave when the time comes. I only hope that when the time comes, you..."

He looked around again, glancing at his beloved grandson and the three children he adored.

I hope everything goes well for you all.

After saying that, the old man walked over to Wakaba Mutsu's side.

"Xiao Mu, why haven't you said anything just now? Are you new here and not used to the unfamiliar environment?"

“I’m not having any trouble adjusting, Grandpa,” Wakaba Mutsu replied softly, head bowed. “I’m just… just worried about my studies.”

Although Wakaba Mutsumi's looks are among the best in Tsukinomori, almost unmatched, as the saying goes, the moon wanes after it is full. She also has her weaknesses—her academic performance is very average, ranking in the lower middle.

Xiangzi and Su Shi were both top students in their respective classes, so their ambition to attend Dongda University was reasonable and well-founded; she, however, couldn't make such a boast, and even if she did, she wouldn't believe it herself.

Originally, this wasn't really a problem. To put it bluntly, even if she didn't go to any university, she could have lived a carefree life based on her looks and her parents' wealth.

But seeing two close friends aspiring to become elite students while I can only watch from behind, I started to feel anxious and insecure. I was even worried about being looked down upon.

"Oh...you're worried about not fitting in, aren't you?" The old man immediately saw it from her expression.

“Hmm…” Wakaba Mutsu nodded.

“Silly child, everyone has their own strengths, and the world’s standards for judging a person are not just based on diplomas.” The old man sighed, then comforted her, “In the end, it’s true that Jun’s admission to Tokyo University brings honor to our family, but even if he didn’t, we wouldn’t care. The same principle applies to you. You don’t need these things to prove yourself. You’ve won over the fan club members with your actions and earned their unanimous approval. That’s your strength… This ability is probably more useful than any diploma. Maybe our family will need your help in the future.”

"Me...? Can I help?" Wakaba Mutsu was taken aback.

"Who knows what the future holds?" The old man reached out and gently touched her head, revealing the true nature of a kind elder. "I've lived long enough, so I know anything is possible. If that day ever comes, then we've formed a good connection today."

Ruo Yemu was confused, but from the old man's expression and actions, she could tell that he really liked her, which dispelled her concerns.

Instead, she lowered her head and quietly enjoyed the comfort from the elder.

Normally, she either doesn't speak or has a somewhat eccentric personality. However, perhaps because she deliberately wanted to make a good impression on the old man, her performance was much better than usual, and she could almost be said to have barrier-free communication.

After patting their heads, the old man withdrew his hand and looked at the three girls with a smile. "Children, you are all very lovely. It is a great blessing to know you all... No matter what happens in the future, I will do my best to help you. I also hope that you can continue to consider him a friend, and that we can all love and help each other in the future. Is that alright?"

The three girls quickly bowed in response, displaying their obedience.

It's truly a feast for the eyes... The old man's gaze swept over their faces again, and he couldn't help but sigh once more.

At this moment, he couldn't help but glance at his grandson again, his gaze filled with both satisfaction and a hint of jealousy that every man would feel.

"Hey kid, what are you standing there for?" Then, he couldn't help but scold.

"Huh?" Jun Takasaki didn't understand why his grandfather was suddenly attacking him, so he replied in confusion, "Is there something I need to do?"

The old man frowned, then gave him an impatient wink.

With his grandfather's constant prompting, he finally understood.

He walked up to the three girls and then bowed respectfully.

"It is a great honor for me to be your friend. I hope you will continue to take care of me in the future." Then, he said earnestly, "Please treat me as a reliable partner, or even an older brother. No matter what difficulties you encounter, I will do my best to help you. And I... also hope that you can be my support. Thank you!"

"Hmm!" He was met with three smiling faces.

Seeing everyone's joyful expressions, Takasaki Jun finally smiled with satisfaction.

"Alright, everyone, you must be hungry after chatting for so long, right? I'll have the servants prepare lunch right away. We have distinguished guests visiting today, so we've prepared a very sumptuous meal. Please make sure you eat plenty..."

"Grandpa, can I help out in the kitchen?" At this moment, Nagasaki Motoyo gently raised her hand and asked timidly, "Although I wouldn't dare to boast that I'm great, I'm still somewhat confident in my cooking skills."

"What are you saying? How can we tire out our guests?" the old man tried to refuse.

"Please grant me this difficult request, after all, this is a rare opportunity..." Nagasaki Motoyo pleaded while also looking forward to it. "Just thinking about having the chance to feed everyone makes me genuinely happy... I don't feel tired at all."

"Alright, then I'll leave it to you." After feeling this maternal power, Takasaki Jun was taken aback for a moment, then conceded, "Do whatever you like."

Main text

55, the so-called destiny

At Nagasaki Motoyo's insistence, Takasaki Jun had no choice but to agree to let her cook and prepare lunch for everyone.

As for the other two, they could only wait at the table.

Shoko Toyokawa, of course, has always been fed meals prepared by the family chef since birth, so she doesn't need to learn these skills at all; while Mutsumi Wakaba, although fond of plants and gardening, knows little about cooking, so she can't be of much help either.