mchenry-crisis.org Chapter 173 The Afterglow of the Tower, Award Nomination
Chapter 173 The Afterglow of the Tower, Award Nomination
Chapter 173 The Afterglow of the Tower, Award Nomination
December 2st, early morning.
The air in Qinye City still smelled of dew.
At the Puchi family's dining table, breakfast was simple yet plentiful: perfectly grilled salmon, steaming miso soup, and leftovers from last night's stew.
Kitahara Shin and Akina came downstairs one after the other. They both looked refreshed and energetic, showing no signs of the awkwardness of last night's "battlefield," but instead displaying a strange tacit understanding.
"Good morning, Shin-kun, Akina-nee."
Quanshui was serving rice to her mother when she saw the two of them, and her smile was as bright as a little sun.
"morning."
Kitahara Shin pulled out a chair and sat down. Just as he picked up his chopsticks, his phone vibrated in his pocket.
He glanced at the caller ID; it was Daejeon.
Calling so early must be about that.
"Feed?"
"President."
On the other end of the phone, Da Tian's voice wasn't as loud and boisterous as usual; instead, it was very low, with a tremor that he was trying hard to control: "The ratings are out."
"Hmm." Kitahara Shin took a sip of miso soup, his tone calm.
"The finale averaged 34.5%."
Daejeon paused, seemingly to calm his breathing, and then read out the next number in an almost reverent tone: "Peak instant viewership rating — 3..8%."
"7
Kitahara Shin paused slightly in his hand holding the chopsticks.
39.8%.
It was just 0.2% away from reaching the 40% ceiling. In this era, apart from the Red and White Song Festival and the Olympics, almost no other program can reach this level. This is a legend worthy of being recorded in history.
"understood."
Kitahara Shin replied casually, even picking up a piece of pickled radish and putting it in his mouth, making a crisp chewing sound: "You've worked hard. You should take a break too, you don't need to keep staring at the data."
"----yes."
After hanging up the phone, Shoichi Ota from Tokyo's Minato Ward slumped into a chair.
He looked at the thin sheet of fax paper in his hand, and his eyes suddenly reddened.
really not easy.
It's not easy.
"This guy—"
Da Tian wiped his eyes, a complex mix of emotions welling up inside him.
If any other young actor had achieved this, they would have been celebrating with champagne or swaggering with pride. But Kitahara Shin seemed to have anticipated it all, and for him, it was just a milestone that had already passed.
This is what "vision" is all about.
Lake Tanzawa, Kanagawa Prefecture
January 2nd, 9:00 AM.
In winter, Danze Lake is as smooth as a mirror, with the surrounding mountains covered in snow and the bare branches of trees reflected on the cold water. The scenery is stunning, but it also exudes a desolate chill.
This is a famous fishing spot in the Kanto region, especially in winter when the water is clear and it is an excellent place to fish for large rainbowfish and tilapia.
Pu Chi Guangxing skillfully rented two sets of fishing gear and found a sheltered and sunny spot in a lake bay.
"Come on, Mr. Xin, try this."
Mitsuyuki Kamachi handed the male protagonist a fishing rod, then casually remarked as he baited the rod, "Speaking of which, Sachiko will be turning 26 this year, right?"
Kitahara Shin paused slightly as he was adjusting the fishing line.
1993. Izumi was born in 1967, so she's definitely turning 26 soon. In Japan at that time, women over 25...
Women who are still unmarried at the age of 30 are often jokingly referred to as "leftover Christmas cakes".
"Yes, time really flies," Kitahara Shin replied vaguely.
Pu Chi Guangxing sighed, his gaze drifting towards the center of the lake: "At this age, her mother and I would have had a child long ago. Although I know that your circle prioritizes careers and early marriage is not fashionable—as a father, sometimes when I see the neighbor's grandson, I still feel quite envious."
As he spoke, he turned his head, staring intently at Kitahara Shin: "Shin-kun, be honest with me. What are your plans for the future? Although I'm not pressuring you, you know that Sachiko is stubborn. Once she's set her mind on you, she probably won't change her mind for the rest of her life."
This is a question that could cost you your life.
Kitahara Shin's forehead was slightly sweaty.
He could only manage a couple of dry laughs, then said evasively, "Uncle, don't worry. My feelings for Sachiko are genuine. However, her career is currently on the rise, and I've only just established myself. As for the child—it might take a little more time."
"The rising phase—also."
Pu Chi Guangxing didn't press him too much, but shook his head with some regret: "If only we could help you take care of the child while my wife and I are still able to walk—never mind, let's not talk about this."
To ease the awkwardness, Kitahara Shin decided to demonstrate his skills in this area.
A thought crossed my mind.
[Mind-Controlled Equipment: Showa Taisho's Old Fishing Rod (Purple) Activated]
In an instant, an invisible aura enveloped him.
His initial agitation over the "baby-making" topic instantly subsided. His grip on the rod changed, becoming extremely relaxed yet as steady as a rock. Baiting, casting, and pressing the line down—every movement exuded an indescribable "Zen" and "gravity."
The feeling was like that of an old angler who had been immersed in this art for decades, exuding a calm and composed air, like Jiang Taigong fishing.
Whoosh—snap.
The lure landed precisely on a marker forty meters away, entering the water silently.
Just then.
From a fishing spot not far away, a deep, resonant voice exclaimed, "Excellent technique!"
Kitahara Nobuyuki and Kamachi Mitsuyuki turned their heads at the same time.
He was an elderly man wearing a thick woolen overcoat and a deerstalker hat. He looked to be in his sixties, with deep wrinkles on his face and sharp, eagle-like eyes. Beside him lay a set of expensive-looking English fly fishing tackle, clearly indicating he was an experienced angler.
The old man did not recognize Kitahara Shin, who was wearing a hat and sunglasses; his gaze was completely focused on Kitahara Shin's actions.
"Young man, in the dead of winter, the water temperature in Danze Lake is only about 4 degrees Celsius. The rainbow trout are all hiding in the crevices of the rocks in the deep water, and their activity level is extremely low; they are what is commonly known as 'closed-mouthed'."
As the old man slowly reeled in the line, he seemed to be testing the fish: "At times like this, if you use this kind of spinner lure and don't handle it well, you won't even get a bite."
Kitahara Shin smiled slightly, his wrist twitching very subtly as he controlled the underwater lure: "You're right. Fish are biting lightly in winter, making them difficult to catch. However, precisely because of the low water temperature, rainbow trout don't chase the lure to conserve energy. So I'm using a 3-gram micro-spooner for a 'super slow, even catch' in this backwater."
"Put the bait directly into the fish's mouth, forcing it to open its mouth."
The voice just fell.
Kitahara Shin's wrist suddenly sank.
"middle!"
The fishing rod instantly bent into a full bow. A splash erupted on the water's surface as a large, silver fish leaped out, shimmering in the sunlight.
"Beautiful!" The old man's eyes lit up. "Judging by that force, it's at least a rainbow trout over 50 centimeters long!"
After a skillful maneuver, Kitahara Shin steadily scooped the large fish into the net.
The old man, carrying his folding chair, came over and said, "Impressive. These days, young people rarely have the patience for such delicate work. Everyone prefers a fast pace, hoping the fish will jump up on their own as soon as the bait is thrown in."
"Fishing is a way to cultivate one's mind."
Kitahara Shin removed the fishing hook, put the fish in the net, and said humbly, "It's the same with doing things. The worse the environment is, the more you need to stay calm. Being impatient for quick success often leads to nothing."
"Um?
'
The old man pondered those words, his expression changing. He gave Kitahara Shin a deep look, as if re-evaluating the young man.
With the added benefit of the "Showa Taisho's Old Fishing Rod," the old man found the young man in front of him increasingly pleasing to the eye, sensing a rare sense of "kindness."
"Well said. Being impatient for quick success leads to nothing." If Japan had more young people like you who understand this principle, there wouldn't be so much of a bubble economy.
The old man sighed, then seemed to suddenly remember something, staring at Kitahara Shin's slender hands, and then at the excited Kamachi Mitsuyuki beside him.
"Speaking of which—"
The old man squinted. "These hands—I feel like I've seen them somewhere before. Especially last night—"
Upon hearing this, Mitsuyuki Kamachi couldn't help but interject proudly, "Sir, did you watch the Fuji TV drama yesterday? It was the one called 'The White Tower'."
"I've seen it."
The old man nodded. "My family dragged me to watch the finale. That Dr. Zaizen's technique—that final 'air surgery'—and this kid's hands—hmm?!"
The old man suddenly realized what was happening and pointed at Kitahara Shin: "You are—that doctor?"
Upon seeing this, Kitahara Shin removed his sunglasses and hat, revealing his handsome face, and bowed solemnly: "I apologize for the spectacle. I am Kitahara Shin."
The old man paused for a moment, then burst into laughter: "I knew it! No wonder he has such composure! To be able to portray an ambitious person to that extent, he's definitely not a frivolous person in real life."
The three found common ground, and the atmosphere became more harmonious.
From fishing techniques to behind-the-scenes stories of TV drama filming, Kitahara Shin's humble yet confident demeanor, along with his profound insights into social issues, impressed the elderly man, who nodded frequently.
It was almost noon.
The old man was preparing to pack up his fishing rod and leave.
He brushed the snowflakes off his clothes, pulled a business card from his coat pocket, and handed it to Kitahara Shin: "Young man, you're a good fisherman and a good actor too. Interested in writing a column for my newspaper?"
"newspaper?"
Kitahara Shin took the business card with both hands, glanced at the title on it, and his pupils contracted slightly.
Yomiuri Shimbun President Tsuneo Watanabe.
This is Japan's largest-circulation newspaper and a behind-the-scenes giant in the political and media world, known as the "media dictator."
Write down your thoughts on acting, or your observations on society. You can write anything.
Watanabe Tsuneo looked at him, his tone casual yet weighty: "I think you have something in your head, don't waste it. Young people these days need some profound voices."
Kitahara Shin took a deep breath and carefully put the business card away: "It's my honor. I will take it seriously."
Watanabe Tsuneo nodded in satisfaction, put his hands behind his back, and walked away: "I'm leaving. Let's have another match next time."
Watching the old man's retreating figure, Mitsuyuki Kamachi leaned closer to look at the business card. He was so shocked that he dropped his cigarette and stammered, "Yomiuri—the president?! Shin-kun, you—you can even catch such a big shot while fishing?!"
Kitahara Shin held the business card, gazing at the calm lake in the distance, a smile playing on his lips.
This trip was very fruitful.
noon.
Kitahara Shin carried a full bucket of fish back to the Puchi family home.
Izumi and Akina were sunbathing in the yard when they saw the large rainbow trout and exclaimed in surprise.
Lunch was a whole fish feast: salt-grilled rainbow trout, rainbow trout sashimi, and delicious fish soup.
After finishing our meal, the short holiday came to an end.
When they said goodbye, Mrs. Kamachi gave them a large bag full of vegetables and pickles she had grown herself. Kamachi Mitsuyuki saw them all the way to their car, his eyes full of reluctance and approval.
Come visit often when you have time.
"must."
The car started. Quanshui leaned against the car window and waved to her parents until the small building disappeared from sight.
Back in Tokyo.
Although "The White Tower" has finished airing, its aftershocks have only just begun.
Monday morning.
A strange, oppressive atmosphere permeated the office buildings in Tokyo.
Countless office workers sit at their desks, staring blankly at their computer screens. They feel empty inside, as if something is missing.
"Sigh—there's no Professor Zaizen to watch tonight."
"I feel completely drained. What should I do this Thursday night?"
This syndrome, dubbed "Zaizen Loss" by the media, quickly swept across Japan. People became so engrossed in the story that they experienced severe withdrawal symptoms after it ended.
The more profound impact is taking place on campus.
Although "The White Tower" exposed the darkness of the medical system, Goro Zaizen's obsession with "only technology is king" inspired countless passionate young people. That year, the number of applicants to medical schools surged by 30% during college application season. Whether they would actually get in was another matter; most likely, like during their time under the same roof, they were just there to create a buzz.
Hotel Okura, Tokyo - Banquet Hall.
three days later.
Fuji Television held a grand celebration banquet for "The White Tower".
The entire banquet hall was resplendent in gold, and the champagne tower was taller than a person.
In addition to the main creators of the production team, high-ranking officials from the TV station, representatives of the sponsors, and even the original author, Toyoko Yamazaki, were present in person.
"Congratulations, Kitahara-kun."
Yamazaki Toyoko held Kitahara Shin's hand, her eyes full of admiration: "You are the living Zaizen Goro."
As they were talking, a commotion broke out at the door.
A group of people dressed in black suits walked in.
Leading the group were several veteran actors from the 1978 version of "The White Tower." Although the original lead actor, Jiro Tamiya, has long since passed away, the arrival of these veteran actors represents a passing of the torch.
"It's like it. It's so similar."
The actor who played "Dr. Satomi" back then looked at Shin Kitahara, his eyes slightly red: "If Tamiya-kun were still alive, he would be very happy to see your version. You did what we wanted to do back then but couldn't."
Kitahara Shin bowed deeply.
"I don't deserve such praise. I'm just continuing the path laid out by my predecessors."
There was thunderous applause.
At this moment, the handover between the old and new generations of "The White Tower" was completed. Kitahara Shin stood under the spotlight, feeling the unreserved recognition from the industry.
In a corner of the victory celebration banquet.
Ota Masakazu was on the phone, his expression gradually becoming serious and excited.
After hanging up the phone, he quickly walked to Kitahara Shin's side and lowered his voice: "President."
"Um?"
"I just received inside information. The nominations for the Japan Academy Film Prize (the Japanese Oscars) will be announced tomorrow."
"The White Tower is a TV series and cannot be nominated, but the one you starred in, The Grand Hotel Lies, was nominated."
""
Ota took a deep breath and looked into Kitahara Shin's eyes: "Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay—and most importantly—Best Actor."
Kitahara Shin swirled the champagne glass in his hand, watching the bubbles rise in the golden liquid.
That "voting pledge" from Sayuri Yoshinaga, that "column invitation" from Tsuneo Watanabe, and all the momentum accumulated over the past few months.
The final storm is about to rage at the upcoming awards ceremony.
"understood."
He downed the drink in one gulp, a confident smile playing on his lips: "Get your formal attire ready, Daejeon."
"We're going to collect the award."
"6
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