N-M Chapter 196 The Confidence of the Upper Circle, and the Summer Festival
Chapter 196 The Confidence of the Upper Circle, and the Summer Festival
Chapter 196 The Confidence of the Upper Circle, and the Summer Festival
A black Toyota Century drove smoothly past the Imperial Palace Outer Garden in Chiyoda Ward.
The pine trees outside the car window rushed past, while soothing classical music flowed through the car.
Today, Sayuri Yoshinaga was dressed in an elegant light purple kimono, her hair neatly combed. She held a folding fan in her hand, her gaze not on Shin Kitahara beside her, but on the handbag on her lap.
"Although I invited you to join the Second Department Association," there are some things I need to say beforehand.
Her voice was soft, yet carried an undeniable penetrating power: "As an actress under thirty with less than ten years of acting experience, you have no say in the association. In fact, in the eyes of some senior members, you're just a kid with incredible luck."
Kitahara Shin leaned back in his leather seat, not feeling offended by those words.
"Then what's the point of me going in? To be a mascot?"
"To serve as a shield, or rather, a talisman."
Yoshinaga Sayuri turned her head, her eyes calm: "With this status, those who want to trip you up behind your back will have to think twice before they act. Because this isn't just targeting you, it's a slap in the face to me, a slap in the face to the entire association. In this circle, 'respect' is sometimes more effective than the law."
Kitahara Shin nodded.
"I understand. It's like a fox borrowing the tiger's power."
"You can understand it that way."
Yoshinaga Sayuri smiled, then sighed, "But don't overestimate my abilities. This is just an 'upper-level' circle, not the true 'top'."
"The pinnacle?" Kitahara Shin asked with some curiosity.
"For example, the level of Mr. Ken Takakura or Mr. Toshiro Mifune."
Sayuri Yoshinaga looked out the window, a rare hint of helplessness in her voice: "That circle is too closed and too complicated. Not only do you need acting skills, but you also need deep political and business connections. Although I can talk to them, I'm ultimately not the one who sets the rules. My business connections are still too weak."
Kitahara Shin understood.
This seemingly "national treasure-level actress" who stands on a pedestal also has her anxieties and limitations.
She courted him not only out of admiration, but also because she saw Kitahara Shin's terrifying business potential and his knack for stirring things up. She needed fresh blood, an ally who could help her solidify her position and even break through the glass ceiling.
It's a win-win deal.
The car stopped in front of a low-key Japanese garden in Kioi-cho.
There was no signboard; there was only a wooden plaque at the entrance with the words "Qingfeng" written on it.
Follow Sayuri Yoshinaga through the quiet stone path and open the heavy shoji door.
A faint scent of sandalwood and expensive tobacco wafted over.
The spacious tatami room was devoid of the clamor of a world of fame and fortune. A dozen or so men and women sat in small groups, drinking tea and chatting.
Kitahara Shin glanced at it.
That one glance gave him the illusion that he had stepped into the "history of Japanese cinema".
The man sitting in the corner smoking is Masahiko Tsugawa, the veteran actor who often plays important figures.
The person whispering to someone is Chieko Baisho, the nation's little sister from "Tora-san".
And the one resting with his eyes closed is Toshiyuki Nishida, with whom he had previously collaborated at The White Tower and with whom he had a good relationship.
Here, there are no idols who have been in the industry for two or three years, nor are there celebrities who rely on variety shows to gain exposure.
Everyone here has at least ten years of experience in the entertainment industry, and the trophies they hold could fill a room. Their viewership ratings may not be as insane as Kitahara Shin's now, but the national recognition and cultural depth they have accumulated over the years are frighteningly profound.
When Sayuri Yoshinaga walked in with Shin Kitahara.
The room fell silent for a moment.
More than a dozen pairs of eyes turned to look.
It was the gaze of someone scrutinizing their own kind. Calm, profound, with a subtle, almost imperceptible sense of oppression.
"Excuse me, everyone."
Sayuri Yoshinaga gave a slight bow, her posture elegant: "This is Shin Kitahara. I think everyone has seen him on television."
Kitahara Shin, neither humble nor arrogant, gave everyone a standard junior's bow: "Nice to meet you all, I am Kitahara Shin. Please take good care of me, seniors."
Several veteran actors nodded slightly in return.
"He's a spirited young man," Masahiko Tsugawa remarked with a smile as he exhaled a smoke ring.
This is enough.
In this circle, getting them to nod means acceptance.
After a brief exchange of pleasantries and introductions, Sayuri Yoshinaga was pulled aside by several old friends to discuss some matters.
Kitahara Shin went out alone to the courtyard corridor for some fresh air.
-
Although he has entered this circle, he knows very well that it will take time for him to truly integrate.
"I didn't expect you to come in so quickly."
A woman's voice, tinged with a hint of languor and teasing, came from behind.
Kitahara Shin turned around.
She was a woman in her early thirties, wearing a deep red evening gown. She had long, wavy hair and held a glass of champagne. She was stunningly beautiful, with an aggressive kind of beauty, and her eyes and brows exuded a "I'm a big shot" confidence.
Yuko Asano.
A top actress known as the "Queen of Trendy Dramas," she has been a ratings champion for the past few years.
"Asano-senpai." Kitahara Shin nodded politely.
"According to the unspoken rules here, you can't get in without ten years of experience or winning one of those major Best Actor or Best Actress awards."
Yuko Asano walked up to him, her perfume strong: "You've only been in the industry for a few years? Four? Five? That's incredible speed, like you've been on a rocket."
"Just lucky." Kitahara Shin smiled.
"luck?"
Yuko Asano shook her head, a playful smile playing on her lips, and lowered her voice: "I don't believe in luck. I think it's most likely because—Sayuri-san needs your help."
She turned around, leaned against the railing, and stared intently at Kitahara Shin: "Don't let her status as a national treasure fool you," she said, "her box office appeal has actually been declining in the last two years. And I've heard she's planning to retire."
Bringing you in is simply a way to find a successor, or rather—a business partner to support her in her old age.
"Little brother, there's no such thing as love without a reason in this circle. We're all adults; the exchange of interests is the only constant."
These words were very blunt, and even carried a hint of malicious intent to sow discord.
Kitahara Shin looked at her.
He knew, of course, that Sayuri Yoshinaga had her own agenda. But so what? The Best Actor award was real, and the favor of being introduced was real too.
As for whether it's exploitation or not, as long as the price is right, exploitation is also a form of value.
"You flatter me, senior."
Kitahara Shin remained expressionless, directly changing the subject: "Whether it's luck or a deal, I'm already standing here, aren't I?"
This subtle rebuke left Asano Yuko speechless for a moment.
She gave Kitahara Shin a deep look, the disdain in her eyes lessening and replaced by a hint of interest: "Interesting. Good attitude."
She swirled the wine in her glass, then suddenly changed the subject, revealing her true intentions: "Now that you're here, let's talk about something practical."
"I have a script from Fuji TV. It's an urban workplace drama with a strong female lead and a younger, more masculine character."
She took a step forward, her eyes gleaming with a hint of allure and ambition: "If it were me and you, I'm confident this cast could be turned into a series, at least three or four seasons. How about it? Interested in collaborating with me? If you agree, I'll handle the director and the TV station."
This is a great temptation.
For ordinary male actors, being able to get on the bandwagon of the "Queen of Highbrow Dramas" and have their series filmed is like having a long-term meal ticket, meaning their top-tier status is guaranteed for the next few years.
But Kitahara Shin simply blinked.
"Feel sorry."
He answered crisply, "My schedule is already full. I have a lot of film and company business to attend to, so I'm afraid I won't be able to find the time to film a long-running TV series."
The air froze for two seconds.
Yuko Asano's smile froze.
She hadn't expected Kitahara Shin to refuse. And so quickly, without even glancing at the script.
This wasn't just rejecting a role; it was a humiliation. In her mind, she was a senior, a TV Queen, and to be rejected by a junior after actively inviting her was an absolute disgrace.
"Full?"
Yuko Asano pursed her lips, her gaze becoming somewhat subtle, and her tone turning cold: "Kitahara-san, it's good that young people have drive. But sometimes, taking too big a step can lead to trouble. Opportunities are like that; once missed, they never come again."
"Thanks for reminding me."
Kitahara Shin maintained his unyielding smile: "But I'm rather lazy and only do what I want to do. You could try asking someone else, like Karasawa-kun or Eguchi-kun; they should be quite free."
"you----"
Yuko Asano took a deep breath, feeling a tightness in her chest.
"Okay. Then I'll go find someone else."
She snorted coldly, turned around and left, her high heels clicking crisply on the wooden floor, clearly indicating that she was furious.
Watching her departing figure, Kitahara Shin shook his head, picked up the tea beside him, and took a sip.
He knew that this feud was now firmly established.
This petty queen has probably already made a note of him in her little notebook.
But so what?
Two years ago, he might have had to feign politeness. But now, he is one of the "chess players" sitting in this room.
You don't need a reason to refuse a job you don't like, nor do you need to consider anyone's opinion.
This is the confidence that allows one to enter the "upper level".
In late August, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival takes place.
This is Tokyo's biggest summer festival.
As night fell, the air was filled with the smells of stir-fried noodles with sauce and gunpowder, mixed with the damp river breeze.
An inconspicuous black sedan stopped in an alley near Asakusa.
The car door opened, and three figures dressed in yukata stepped out.
Despite the throngs of people around them, the aura of these three walking together still drew the attention of passersby—even though they had put on some disguises to avoid being recognized.
Kitahara Shin let down his usual slicked-back hair, letting his bangs cover his forehead, and put on a pair of black-rimmed glasses. His dark blue men's yukata made him look less sharp as a company president and more like a scholarly older brother next door.
To his left.
Akina Nakamori wore her hair in a relaxed bun, with a few wisps of hair falling beside her ears. She chose a black yukata with red camellia patterns, tied at the waist with a bright yellow belt. Only she could pull off this bright, retro, and slightly rebellious style.
To his right.
Izumi Sakai, on the other hand, was a completely different character. Her high ponytail revealed her long, slender neck, and her light blue yukata adorned with white hydrangeas looked as refreshing as a glass of iced ramune soda. She held a round fan in her hand, her head bowed shyly, and followed closely beside Shin Kitahara.
"There are so many people."
Izumi sighed softly and subconsciously grabbed Kitahara Shin's sleeve.
"Stay close, don't get separated."
Kitahara Shin naturally shielded the two of them with his hand, like a barrier keeping the surrounding crowd outside.
Although the three of them are now very close—they even had a "chatting under the covers" experience in the apartment last time—they still need to be mindful of boundaries since this is on the street.
However, the tacit understanding and sweetness flowing between the three of them could not be hidden.
In front of the temple fair stalls.
"I want that! The goldfish!"
Akina pointed to the goldfish scooping stall in front of her, her eyes sparkling like a child who hadn't grown up.
The stall owner, an elderly gentleman, smiled and handed over the paper nets to the three distinguished young men, saying, "Young man, want to show off your skills to your girlfriend?"
Kitahara Shin took the paper net, rolled up the sleeves of his yukata, and smiled slightly.
For an ordinary person, this thin paper net would break as soon as it gets wet.
But he's different.
With a slight thought, the equipment menu was switched.
[Equipment: God's Left Hand - Activated]
Originally a miraculous skill used for precise surgery, he's now using it to—scoop up goldfish.
This is simply a case of overwhelming force.
-
With a slight flick of his wrist, Kitahara Shin cut the paper net into the water at a perfect angle, without any resistance.
Splash!
A red ribbon of gold was carefully scooped up and placed into the bowl.
Splash!
It was another black streak with striking gold accents.
The movements were fluid, swift, accurate, and ruthless.
In less than two minutes, the bowl was filled with colorful goldfish. The old stall owner was dumbfounded; how could this paper net be made of iron?
Wow! That's amazing!
Quanshui couldn't help but clap her hands, her eyes filled with admiration as she looked at Kitahara Shin.
"Give."
Kitahara Shin handed the spoils to the two men, one bag for each.
Next were the shooting booths and the ring toss booths —
Tonight, Kitahara Shin was practically a "festival wrecker." He hit every target with deadly accuracy. Akina, clutching the giant teddy bear she'd won, was laughing so hard her face was aching.
"The final stop: the lucky draw!"
As they passed the lottery station in the shopping street, the huge spinning wheel caught their attention.
"The grand prize is—a trip for two to three people to Hakone Onsen? A luxury two-day, two-night trip?"
Akina read the words on the poster, then turned to look at Kitahara Shin, a hint of teasing in her eyes: "Lucky one, it's your turn to shine."
He'd never taken off this equipment since he got it. After all, it was a passive skill; it not only brought good luck but also served as a mystical talisman, ensuring that "accidents" would never happen.
"Okay, I'll give it a try."
Kitahara Shin stepped forward and grasped the crank.
slam-la-
Golden beads were dancing inside.
The "good luck" buff was slightly warm at this moment.
"Ring ring—!!!"
The shop assistant suddenly rang the bell and shouted, "Congratulations, customer! Grand Prize! The Golden Ball! A luxury hot spring tour!!"
Passersby cast envious glances at them.
Kitahara Shin held the prize ticket, looking at the two smiling women beside him.
A trip for three? Hot springs? Two days and two nights?
This reward—system, you understand the power of "luck."
However, seeing how carefree and simply happy they were about winning the lottery, Kitahara Shinya smiled.
Anyway, things will work themselves out; we'll see when the time comes.
7:30 p.m.
The three of them arrived at the paid viewing area by the Sumida River.
This was a spot that Kitahara Shin had reserved long ago. It was far from the crowds, had a wide view, and faced the launch pad directly.
They bought takoyaki, yakisoba, and ice-cold beer, and sat on the tatami mats.
"Bang--!"
The first firework shot into the sky, exploding into a giant golden peony against the night sky.
A cheer erupted from the crowd.
Then came the second bunch, the third bunch—
The dazzling lights illuminated the faces of the three people, casting them in shifting light and shadow.
"What a nice view----"
Quan Shui tilted his head back, watching the dazzling fireworks, and murmured to himself, "It seems like it's been so many years since I've seen fireworks like this. I used to be busy working, and later I was busy recording songs, so I could only watch them on TV."
"Me too."
Akina took a bite of the candied apple, her eyes slightly unfocused: "The last time I watched fireworks was probably when I first debuted. Back then, I didn't have so many worries."
Kitahara Shin looked at them.
The firelight reflected in their eyes, making them look like twinkling stars.
"In that case..."
He reached out and gently took their hands, which were resting on their knees: "Shall we come together every summer from now on?"
This isn't some grand vow, it's just a simple invitation.
But at that moment, it was more beautiful than any sweet words.
Izumi and Akina paused for a moment, then turned to look at the man smiling gently amidst the fireworks.
"Bang bang bang!!"
Just then, the climax of the fireworks display erupted into the sky. The deafening explosions drowned out all the noise and turned the entire night sky into daylight.
Just as everyone looked up at the sky.
Izumi and Akina suddenly exchanged a glance.
It was as if they had reached some kind of tacit understanding that didn't require words.
They moved closer at the same time.
left.
right.
Two warm, soft lips pressed against Kitahara Shin's cheeks at the same time.
It has the sweetness of apple candy and the refreshing taste of Ramune soda.
Fireworks exploded overhead.
Kitahara Shin froze, and then a huge, indescribable feeling of happiness welled up from the bottom of his heart.
He didn't move, but simply gripped those two hands even tighter.
This summer was worth it.
At the same time.
The other end of Senso-ji Temple.
This is a food stall in the working-class area.
"snort."
Rie Miyazawa, dressed in a pink yukata, held a skewer of grilled squid in her hand, taking a big bite while looking at the fireworks in the distance, her face full of displeasure: "That guy—he's probably having a blast right now, with two girls on either side of him."
She knew without even thinking that Kitahara Shin must have gone to spend the night with his two older sisters.
Although I had known for a long time that the relationship between those three people was unusual, I still felt a pang of jealousy when it came to this moment.
"Rie-chan, this chocolate banana is so delicious!"
next to.
Nanako Matsushima, dressed in a simple white yukata, held two bananas in her hand, her mouth stuffed full, and mumbled happily—
"Why don't you try some? This shop's chocolate sauce is really rich!" she said.
Looking at her food-obsessed "silly older sister," Rie sighed helplessly: "Nanako, don't you really care at all? Teacher went to see fireworks with someone else."
"Hmm?"
Nanako swallowed what was in her mouth, tilted her head, and her big eyes looked especially clear in the lantern light: "What do you care about? As long as the teacher is happy, that's all that matters."
She stuck out her tongue and licked the chocolate from the corner of her mouth, smiling innocently: "And—don't worry, Rie."
"We'll have another chance in the future. Our teacher is a kind person; he won't forget us."
When she said this, her tone was firm, and there was even a hint of something unfathomable in her eyes.
Rie was stunned.
She looked at the woman in front of her who seemed completely innocent and was enjoying her meal.
Is this really the silly Nanako?
Or is it that—
Is this the legendary "naturally cunning killer"? Or is this the ultimate "hunter"?
"you----"
Rie opened her mouth, but in the end could only shake her head helplessly, taking a big bite of the squid in her hand: "Fine. Eat!"
The fireworks are still going off.
Everyone's summer has its own unique flavor.
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