Chapter 225: The Fujiwara Family And Oyama Family Engagement Banquet! Happy Everyone! Happy Four Families!
Fujiwara Motomaru put down the box and looked at Fujiwara Isshin, his tone much gentler than before: “Then… has the date for the parents to meet been set? We can’t keep delaying; the proper procedures must be followed, so outsiders don’t say our family doesn’t understand etiquette.”
“It’s set, tomorrow at noon.”
Fujiwara Isshin replied, “Uncle Koyama said it would be at the ‘Sakura Village’ restaurant, as it’s close to both families and the environment is quiet. We’ll mainly discuss the engagement details, such as the date and location of the engagement banquet, and the guest list.”
“Sakura Village?” Fujiwara Temari nodded, “I know that restaurant. I went there once last year with your father. Their kaiseki cuisine is excellent, especially the cherry blossom sushi; it’s beautifully shaped and authentically delicious. Choosing that place is good; it shows we value the occasion and won’t make the Oyama family feel too constrained.”
Fujiwara Motomaru also nodded, “Yes, I know the owner of that restaurant. I’ll call him in advance tomorrow and ask him to reserve a private room by the window; it has a good view and is convenient for conversation. By the way, when are you planning to hold the engagement banquet? I think the 25th of this month would be good. The lunar calendar says it’s an ‘auspicious day for marriage,’ and it’s also close to Misae’s birthday. We can celebrate together then, it will be very lively.”
“I mentioned it to Uncle Koyama, and he also thought the 25th was suitable.”
Fujiwara Isshin said, “However, it depends on the restaurant’s availability. The private rooms at Sakura Village are very tight, especially on weekends, so we need to book in advance. When we meet tomorrow, we can have the restaurant owner bring the schedule so we can choose the most suitable date together.”
Fujiwara Temari clapped her hands, her smile uncontainable, “That’s wonderful! We can finally finalize this, and I can finally put my mind at ease. You have no idea, a few days ago I was chatting with Mrs. Sato next door, and she asked, ‘When is your Hiroshi Nohara getting married?’ I was too embarrassed to say it wasn’t set yet. Now, it’s good, once it’s decided, I can talk to her properly about our Misae and let her know how wonderful my daughter-in-law is!”
She became more and more delighted, got up, walked to the cupboard, and rummaged through a drawer. “Oh, Hiroshi Nohara, I went shopping in Ginza a few days ago and bought Misae a pearl necklace. Take it to her tomorrow. Those pearls are freshwater, not large, but round, and they suit Misae’s complexion perfectly. Also, I bought your Aunt Koyama a silk scarf. It’s her favorite beige, with cherry blossom embroidery. Take that too; it’s a small token of our appreciation.”
Fujiwara Motomaru couldn’t help but smile as he watched his wife busily searching.
He picked up the tea bowl on the table and took a sip of tea. Suddenly, he seemed to remember something and looked at Fujiwara Isshin, “By the way, where is your brother? That kid Kazumasa, can he make it to the meeting tomorrow noon? He’s your elder brother; how can he be absent from such an important occasion?”
Mentioning his elder brother, Fujiwara Kazumasa, Fujiwara Isshin paused.
His elder brother was six years older than him and was currently a civil servant in Kyoto, in the Kansai region. He was so busy with work that he didn’t even come back for Chinese New Year last year.
A few days ago, he had called his elder brother to tell him about his engagement, and his brother had only said, “I know, I’ll see about it then,” without confirming his attendance.
“I called my elder brother a few days ago, and he said he’d try his best to make it back.”
Fujiwara Isshin replied truthfully, “But he’s currently busy with a cooperative project with a foreign country and often has to travel to Osaka for business, so it’s not certain if he can make it back. I told him that tomorrow noon’s meeting is mainly to discuss the engagement matters, and he must come back for the engagement banquet if he absolutely cannot make it.”
Fujiwara Motomaru’s expression darkened. He put down the tea bowl with a bit more force, and the tea bowl made a “thud” as it collided with the low table.
“What’s the matter with discussing engagement matters? He’s the elder brother; his younger brother’s lifelong happiness is at stake. Even if he’s busy, he should be here!”
His tone was somewhat displeased, “Your brother is too proud, always thinking that work is more important than anything else. Last year he said he was busy even for Chinese New Year, and in the end, your mother and I went to Kyoto to see him. If he dares to be absent again this time for your engagement, just you wait and see how I deal with him!”
Hearing this, Fujiwara Temari quickly walked over from the cupboard and tugged her husband’s arm, “Don’t say that. It’s not easy for Kazumasa. He’s working hard in Kyoto, with no one to take care of him, and he’s under a lot of work pressure. We, as parents, should understand him. Besides, Hiroshi Nohara said he’ll definitely be back for the engagement banquet, and we can all be together then.”
She turned to Fujiwara Isshin, her tone much softer, “Don’t argue with your brother. He cares about this family. A few days ago, he called me and asked how the preparations for your engagement were going. He also said he wanted to prepare a big gift for Misae and told me not to tell you, as he wanted to surprise you.”
Fujiwara Isshin felt a warmth spread through his heart.
Actually, he knew that although his elder brother was quiet and busy, he always cared about the family. Last year, when he encountered trouble at the Prefectural Office, it was his elder brother who helped him resolve it through connections. However, his elder brother had a reserved personality and was not good at expressing his emotions, always hiding his concern deep inside.
“I know my elder brother cares about this family,” Fujiwara Isshin said with a smile.
Fujiwara Motomaru’s expression softened slightly, but he still huffed, “This kind of matter needs to be discussed in person to show importance. However… forget it. If he really can’t make it, there’s nothing we can do. Tell him that for the engagement banquet, he must come back even if the sky falls! Otherwise, he doesn’t have to acknowledge me as his father!”
Fujiwara Temari shook her head with a smile and turned to continue packing the gifts for the Oyama family.
She placed the pearl necklace in a velvet box, neatly folded the silk scarf, and put it in a paper bag. Then, she walked up to Fujiwara Isshin and handed him the paper bag, “Remember to take these to Misae and Aunt Koyama tomorrow. Tell them it’s a small token of my appreciation; don’t find it wanting.”
Fujiwara Isshin took the paper bag. The tips of his fingers brushed against the soft silk, and his heart was filled with gratitude, “Mom, you’re too kind. Misae and Aunt Koyama will surely like them.”
“As long as they like them,” Fujiwara Temari patted his shoulder, her eyes full of gratification. “It’s getting late. You’ve been running around all day, you must be tired. Go back to your room and rest. You have to get up early tomorrow for the meeting with the Oyama family, so you can’t be in low spirits.”
“Then I’ll go to bed now,” Fujiwara Isshin nodded and got up to return to his room.
“Go, go, good night,” Fujiwara Temari waved her hand, watching her son’s retreating back disappear at the end of the corridor. Only then did she turn to her husband, her eyes full of smiles, “See, our son is so sensible, and Misae is also a worry-free child. This marriage is truly the right choice.”
Fujiwara Motomaru put down his tea bowl and picked up the 《Kumamoto Prefectural Gazette》 on the table, but he didn’t look at it. Instead, he looked out the window.
The night grew deeper. The cherry blossom tree in the courtyard seemed to glow faintly under the lamplight, reminiscent of the scene when he and his wife dated in his youth.
“Yes, it’s the right choice,” he said softly, his voice full of emotion. “Our Fujiwara Isshin has finally grown up. Now that Misae will be by his side to take care of him, we can finally relax.”
Fujiwara Temari walked over to him and leaned gently on his shoulder, “Yes, we can finally enjoy our old age. Once Fujiwara Isshin and Misae get married and have a chubby grandson, our family will be even livelier.”
Fujiwara Motomaru smiled and reached out to hold his wife’s hand.
The two sat there quietly. The lighting in the living room was warm and cozy, the aroma of green tea still lingered in the air, and everything felt so warm and beautiful.
…
The next morning, Fujiwara Isshin woke up early.
After washing up, he put on a new dark blue suit, his tie perfectly knotted, and he even sprayed a little light cologne – the citrus scent that Misae liked.
When he went downstairs, his parents were already waiting in the living room.
Fujiwara Temari was wearing a beige kimono with small cherry blossom patterns, looking exceptionally elegant; Fujiwara Motomaru was in a dark gray suit, his hair neatly combed, looking spirited and vigorous.
“You’re up? Come and have breakfast,” Fujiwara Temari called out with a smile. On the low table were freshly made miso soup, grilled fish, and rice, along with several exquisite Japanese sweets. “I specifically asked Yuki to make your favorite grilled fish. Eat more, so you have energy for the meeting with the Oyama family later.”
Fujiwara Isshin sat down, picked up his chopsticks, and put a piece of grilled fish into his mouth. The fish was tender and fresh, with a savory soy sauce flavor, a taste he had loved since childhood.
“Dad, Mom, when are we leaving?” he asked while eating.
“After you finish breakfast, we’ll leave,” Fujiwara Motomaru drank some miso soup. “Sakura Village isn’t far from our house; it’s only a ten-minute drive. We’ll go a little early to greet the restaurant owner and have him prepare the private room.”
Fujiwara Isshin nodded and sped up his eating.
After breakfast, the three got into their family’s black car. The driver was a trusted subordinate who had been with Fujiwara Motomaru for many years, steady and reliable.
The car slowly drove out of the house and proceeded along the streets of Kumamoto City.
At this time in Kumamoto, the sunlight was just right. The cherry trees lining the streets were beginning to sprout buds, with small buds interspersed among the tender green leaves, like a beautiful oil painting representing a perfect day.
…
The morning sun filtered through the cherry trees in the Oyama family’s courtyard, casting dappled light on the wooden corridor.
Oyama Yoshiharu stood in front of the mirror, repeatedly tugging at the dark blue tie of his suit. The mother-of-pearl button at his collar was polished to a shine.
Mage, holding a Kumamon doll, leaned over and peered into the mirror, a bit of red bean paste from the dorayaki she ate this morning still on the corner of her mouth.
“Dad, your tie is almost strangling your neck! If you tighten it any further, you’ll be out of breath!” Mage reached out and tugged the end of the tie, causing Oyama Yoshiharu to frown and swat her hand away.
“What does a child know?”
Oyama Yoshiharu adjusted the cuffs of his suit in the mirror, his tone deliberately serious. “Today we are meeting the Fujiwara family, a Prefectural Councilman’s family; there are many rules and etiquette. If we dress sloppily, they’ll say our Oyama family is impolite.”
Misae walked out from the inner room, carrying a folded handkerchief. The hem of her light pink kimono swept across the tatami, and the light purple wisteria flowers embroidered on the cuffs swayed gently with her movements.
She looked at her father’s tense profile and couldn’t help but laugh. “Dad, you bought this suit new last Lunar New Year; the material is crisp, and the tie is a brand-name one Hiroshi Nohara brought back from Tokyo last time. It looks very presentable no matter how you look at it. If you keep fussing like this, the Fujiwara family will be waiting impatiently.”
“What do you know?” Oyama Yoshiharu glared at his eldest daughter, but he wasn’t truly angry. His fingers unconsciously touched the hem of his suit. “The Fujiwara family is a prominent clan in Kumamoto, and Fujiwara Isshin works as a civil servant in the Kumamoto Prefectural Office. He might even move to a higher position in the future. We must not lose face for our Oyama family.”
Misae’s cheeks flushed slightly. She handed him the handkerchief. “Dad, you’re overthinking it. Isshin told me yesterday that his parents are very amiable people and just want to have a meal with our family and discuss the engagement. Besides, with Hiroshi Nohara here, he’ll help us smooth things over even if there are any rules we don’t understand.”
“Hmm, that’s true.” Hearing Hiroshi Nohara’s name, Oyama Yoshiharu finally relaxed.
After all, his second daughter’s boyfriend, her future husband, was someone he was quite satisfied with!
As they were talking, Oyama Takao’s voice came from the inner room, with a hint of cheerful laughter, “What are you three father and daughters chatting about over there? Come in and see how I look!”
They turned to look and saw Oyama Takao wearing a dark green kimono. The collar and cuffs were embroidered with golden chrysanthemum patterns; it was a precious garment from her trousseau, usually only taken out for Chinese New Year or weddings.
She walked to the mirror and gently turned, her kimono hem unfolding like a blooming flower.
“Mom, you look so beautiful in that!” Mage put down the Kumamon doll, ran over, and tugged at her mother’s sleeve, her eyes sparkling. “It’s even prettier than the one you wore at Auntie’s wedding last time!”
Oyama Takao beamed at her youngest daughter’s compliment and reached out to ruffle her hair. “You’re so sweet-mouthed. This is the kimono I wore when your father and I got engaged. I took it out yesterday and ironed it, thinking I should dress formally to meet our future in-laws today.” She turned to Mage, who was still in her casual clothes, and raised an eyebrow slightly. “You child, why are you still in your pajamas? Hurry and change into the new clothes I prepared for you. Hiroshi Nohara and Misae will be down soon.”
Upon hearing this, Mage immediately hopped to her room, shouting as she ran, “I know! I’ve already decided which one to wear! It’s the pink dress and white leather shoes that my brother-in-law bought me from Tokyo last time!”
Misae shook her head helplessly, watching her sister’s cheerful back. “This girl gets so excited whenever Hiroshi Nohara buys her something. Last time, Hiroshi Nohara brought her a Kumamon keychain, and she hung it on her school bag every day, bragging to her classmates for days.”
Oyama Takao smiled and adjusted her kimono’s obi. “What can we do? Hiroshi Nohara treats our family so well; Mage knows it in her heart. Besides, Hiroshi Nohara is not only a good person but also very capable. Who in Kumamoto doesn’t know he’s a famous director at Tokyo TV and designed the adorable Kumamon character? Having such a son-in-law is our family’s good fortune.”
Oyama Yoshiharu cleared his throat. Although he didn’t say anything, the curve of his lips revealed his thoughts.
He walked to the mirror and adjusted his tie one last time. Looking at his suited reflection, the nervousness in his eyes lessened, replaced by anticipation.
Not long after, footsteps were heard on the stairs, accompanied by Misae’s cheerful laughter.
Everyone looked up and saw Hiroshi Nohara in a dark gray suit, standing tall and with a gentle smile on his face.
Misae was wearing a light purple kimono with light pink cherry blossoms embroidered at the collar, specially custom-made for her in Tokyo by Hiroshi. It was both traditional and lively.
They walked down side by side, one steady and handsome, the other gentle and lovely, looking exceptionally well-matched.
“Hiroshi Nohara, Misae, you both look so good in those!” Oyama Takao was the first to speak, her tone full of admiration. “The material of your suit, Hiroshi Nohara, looks excellent at first glance, and Misae, your kimono is also beautiful; the color makes your skin look even fairer.”
Misae’s cheeks flushed slightly, and she instinctively leaned closer to Hiroshi, whispering, “Hiroshi Nohara picked it all out for me. He said I had to support Sister Misae today and dress formally.”
Hiroshi smiled, ruffled Misae’s hair, and his gaze swept over the Oyama family. His tone was gentle, “Uncle and Aunt, Sister Misae, you all look very appropriate today. Especially Aunt’s kimono; it has a lot of character.”
Oyama Yoshiharu looked at the young man before him and nodded with satisfaction. “Yes, good. Hiroshi, you have a lot of experience. When we meet the Fujiwara family later, if there’s anything we need to pay attention to, please remind us a few times.”
“Don’t worry, Uncle.”
Hiroshi nodded in agreement. “I’ve met Fujiwara Isshin a few times; he’s a very easygoing person, and his parents should also be easy to get along with. Today, we’re just having a meal together as a family and discussing the engagement matters between Sister Misae and Isshin. There’s no need to be too nervous.”
Just then, Mage came running out in her pink dress and white leather shoes, her skirt swaying with her movements.
She ran up to everyone, twirled around, her face beaming with pride. “Everyone, look! Don’t I look great in this? My brother-in-law bought it for me!”
Everyone couldn’t help but laugh at her adorable appearance.
Oyama Takao walked over, helped her straighten her slightly askew collar, and said, “Beautiful, beautiful, our Mage looks beautiful in anything. Come here, Mom will comb your hair for you and tie a pretty bow.”
Mage obediently walked to her mother’s side and sat on a low stool, letting her mother comb her hair.
She looked at herself in the mirror, wearing her new clothes, and then at her family beside her, a smile constantly on her lips.
Once everyone was ready, Oyama Yoshiharu looked at the wall clock and said with a solemn tone, “It’s almost time, we should leave. The Fujiwara family booked the restaurant at Sakura Village, which is a bit far from our house, so we’ll need more time on the road.”
Everyone nodded and started walking towards the door.
Mage held Misae’s hand, skipping along behind them, saying, “Big sister, can I ride in the same car as you, second sister, and brother-in-law when we get to the restaurant? I want to chat with you all, and I want brother-in-law to tell me stories about the new Kumamon short film!”
Hearing this, Oyama Yoshiharu immediately stopped and looked at his youngest daughter with a stern face. “No! You’ll ride in the car with your mother and me. I need to remind your mother of a few more things about meeting the in-laws on the way. You listen carefully; don’t always think about playing.”
Mage’s face instantly fell, her lips pouting so much they could hang a kettle, and she looked at her father aggrievedly, “Why? I want to sit with second sister and brother-in-law…”
Oyama Takao quickly tugged her youngest daughter’s hand and gently persuaded, “Mage, listen to your father. The situation is special today.”
Misae also chimed in with a smile, “Yes, Mage. We’ll have plenty of time to chat once we get to the restaurant. You can sit with Mom and Dad on the way and help Mom carry some things.”
Mage looked at everyone trying to persuade her, knowing resistance was useless, and reluctantly drooped her head, saying in a small voice, “Okay… then I’ll ride in the car with Mom and Dad.”
Seeing their youngest daughter’s aggrieved look, everyone couldn’t help but laugh.
Oyama Yoshiharu couldn’t maintain his stern expression either. The corners of his mouth turned up slightly, and he reached out to pat Mage’s shoulder. “That’s a good girl. When we get to the restaurant, I’ll let your mother order your favorite Strawberry Daifuku for you.”
Upon hearing about Strawberry Daifuku, Mage’s eyes immediately lit up. Her previous grievances vanished instantly, and she nodded vigorously, “Okay! Then I want two!”
The group walked out of the house, laughing and talking, and got into the cars parked at the entrance.
Hiroshi drove, with Misae and Misae in the back. The two occasionally exchanged a few hushed words, creating a warm atmosphere.
Oyama Yoshiharu and Oyama Takao were in another car, with Mage in the middle. She would occasionally act spoiled with her father and chat with her mother about school stories, filling the car with laughter and joy.
The cars slowly drove out of the residential area and headed towards Sakura Village along the road.
The cherry trees by the roadside had already begun to bud, with tender green leaves dotting the branches, exuding vitality.
Sunlight streamed through the car windows, warm and comforting, making everyone feel exceptionally good.
About half an hour later, the cars arrived at Sakura Village.
This was a famous high-end restaurant in Kumamoto City, located on the mountainside, surrounded by cherry trees, with a serene and elegant environment.
The exterior of the restaurant was a traditional Japanese building, with a wooden structure and curved eaves, exuding an ancient charm.
Hiroshi parked the car in the parking lot. As soon as he got out, he saw Fujiwara Isshin and his parents had already arrived and were waiting at the restaurant entrance.
Fujiwara Isshin was wearing a dark blue suit, making him look even more steady than usual. His father, Fujiwara Motomaru, wore a dark gray kimono, his hair neatly combed, his eyes sharp, exuding the characteristic composure of a politician. His mother, Fujiwara Temari, was wearing a light pink kimono, with a gentle smile on her face, looking very approachable.
Seeing the Fujiwara family, Oyama Yoshiharu couldn’t help but feel a little nervous. He subconsciously adjusted the hem of his suit, then turned to look at Oyama Takao beside him and whispered, “Is my suit okay? Is there anything impolite?”
Oyama Takao rolled her eyes at him and said with a hint of helplessness, “You’ve been asking all the way; it’s fine! Your suit is sharp, your tie is tied neatly, and you look more spirited than usual. Besides, we’re here to meet the in-laws, not to attend an important meeting; there’s no need to be so nervous.”
Mage leaned over and whispered in a low voice, “Dad, you’re more nervous than you were at my parent-teacher conference. Anyone would think you’re here for a blind date!”
Oyama Yoshiharu blushed at his youngest daughter’s remark, glared at her, and said in a low voice, “You child, what nonsense are you spouting! Sakura Village is a renowned high-end restaurant in all of Kumamoto, and the Fujiwara family is a prominent clan. We mustn’t lose our etiquette. After we go in, speak less and listen more, understand?”
Mage stuck out her tongue and answered in a small voice, “I understand.”
Oyama Takao also gently patted her youngest daughter’s shoulder and said seriously, “Mage, when you meet the Fujiwara aunt and uncle later, you must be polite and speak in a soft voice, like a young lady from a good family. Don’t be jumpy like usual, understand? The Fujiwara family is a Prefectural Councilman’s family with many rules; we can’t let them think we’re uneducated.”
Mage felt it was a bit troublesome, but she still nodded. “I understand, Mom. I’ll be good.”
She turned to Misae, Hiroshi, and Misae, who had just gotten out of the car, her eyes lighting up, and said with a smile, “But Mom, my second sister’s brother-in-law is a famous director at Tokyo TV, even more famous than the Fujiwara family! Last time, our teacher even asked me about my second sister’s brother-in-law, saying he really liked his 《World of the Strange》 and 《Seven Samurai》!”
Hearing this, Hiroshi couldn’t help but smile. He walked over and ruffled Mage’s hair. “Alright, Mage, today the spotlight is on Uncle and Aunt and Sister Misae. We need to focus on them. I’m just an ordinary director; nothing special.”
Oyama Yoshiharu looked at Hiroshi’s composed demeanor. His nervousness lessened further, and he nodded with satisfaction. “Hiroshi is right. Today is an important day for Misae and Isshin’s engagement; we all need to focus on them. Mage, you can’t mention these trivial things later, understand?”
Mage pouted and said in a small voice, “I understand.”
At this moment, Fujiwara Isshin saw them and quickly brought his parents over. He first bowed deeply to Oyama Yoshiharu and Oyama Takao, his tone respectful, “Uncle and Aunt, thank you for the journey.”
He then turned to Misae, his eyes gentle, “Misae, you look so beautiful today.”
Misae’s cheeks flushed, and she softly said, “Thank you,” but didn’t dare to meet his gaze.
Fujiwara Motomaru looked at Oyama Yoshiharu, a gentle smile on his face, and extended his hand. “Mr. Oyama, I’ve heard a lot about you. I am Fujiwara Motomaru, Isshin’s father.”
Oyama Yoshiharu quickly extended his hand, shook his, and said with some excitement, “Mr. Fujiwara Motomaru, hello, hello! I am Oyama Yoshiharu, Misae’s father. I’ve heard your name for a long time, and it’s truly an honor to meet you today.”
Fujiwara Temari also walked up to Oyama Takao, took her hand with a smile, and said, “Mrs. Oyama, hello. I am Fujiwara Temari. Your kimono today is so beautiful; it looks like a very valuable garment.”
Oyama Takao felt a little embarrassed by the compliment and quickly replied, “Mrs. Fujiwara, you are too kind. This is just a normal kimono I wear; it’s not as beautiful as yours. Your pink kimono makes your complexion look so good.”
The two families exchanged pleasantries, and the atmosphere was exceptionally harmonious. Misae and Fujiwara Isshin stood to the side, occasionally exchanging glances filled with sweetness. Misae and Hiroshi stood behind, watching the scene before them with smiles on their faces.
Mage held Misae’s hand and whispered, “Second sister, Uncle and Aunt Fujiwara seem so friendly, not at all as stern as Dad said.”
Misae nodded with a smile, “Yes, they are very amiable people. Look how happily Mom is chatting with Mrs. Fujiwara. Later, when we go inside, you can also chat with Mrs. Fujiwara; she seems to like children very much.”
Mage nodded, her eyes full of anticipation.
Fujiwara Motomaru looked at Hiroshi, who was standing nearby, with admiration in his eyes. “This must be Mr. Hiroshi Nohara, right? I’ve heard your name for a long time. I’ve seen both 《World of the Strange》 and 《Seven Samurai》 that you directed. They were very well done. Especially 《Seven Samurai》, it portrayed the spirit of the samurai and the complexity of human nature with great depth; it’s a rare and excellent work.”
Hiroshi quickly bowed and said humbly, “Mr. Fujiwara Motomaru, you flatter me. I merely did what I was supposed to do. It is my honor to receive your recognition.”
“You are too modest.”
Fujiwara Motomaru waved his hand with a smile. “There aren’t many young, accomplished, and humble directors like you nowadays. Isshin often mentions you to me, saying you are not only talented but also visionary. The Kumamon image you designed is now incredibly popular throughout Kumamoto Prefecture!”
…
As Fujiwara Motomaru spoke, he also looked at the tall and upright Fujiwara Isshin beside him, his tone carrying the seriousness of an elder but also a greater sense of closeness than before. “Isshin, from now on, with Misae marrying into our family, we are truly relatives. The Fujiwara family and the Oyama family should interact more and support each other. You are young, and when you encounter uncertainties in your work at the Prefectural Office, Mr. Hiroshi has broad experience and knowledge from Tokyo and is Misae’s brother-in-law. You should communicate with him more and don’t always keep things to yourself.”
Fujiwara Isshin immediately bowed slightly, his hands hanging naturally at his sides, his attitude humbly appropriate. “Father, please rest assured, I have taken it to heart. When I discussed the promotion strategies for Kumamon with Mr. Hiroshi before, I felt he had a very thorough perspective. I will definitely seek his advice often in the future.”
He looked up at Hiroshi Nohara, who was standing not far away, his gaze filled with sincere recognition.
The “unit drama pacing control techniques” that Hiroshi casually mentioned were still proving useful to him when handling promotional short films for the Prefectural Office.
Hearing this, Hiroshi Nohara simply smiled gently and gestured with his hand, “Mr. Isshin, you’re too kind. We are all family; mutual exchange is only natural. Misae and Isshin getting together means our two families are now connected by fate; there’s no need to be so formal.”
Misae linked arms with Misae and whispered in her ear, “Sister, Uncle Fujiwara is so nice; he doesn’t have any airs of a politician at all.”
Misae’s cheeks flushed slightly, and she secretly glanced at Fujiwara Isshin, unable to hide the smile on her lips, and nodded gently.
Even Oyama Yoshiharu and Oyama Takao felt considerable gratification seeing how polite the Fujiwara family was to them.
Just then, the restaurant manager hurried over.
He was wearing a sharp black suit with a perfectly tied bow tie and a perfectly appropriate smile on his face. “Mr. Fujiwara Motomaru, the private room is ready. It’s the window seat you specifically requested, with a view of the cherry blossom trees in the courtyard. Please follow me; I will escort you.”
He slightly turned sideways, gesturing towards the direction of the corridor.
Fujiwara Motomaru nodded. “Thank you for your trouble, Manager Yamada.”
“You are too kind, it is my duty.” Manager Yamada bowed, treading lightly, as if afraid of disturbing everyone.
The group walked along a corridor carpeted in dark fabric. The walls on either side were adorned with antique Ukiyo-e prints depicting the four seasons of Kumamoto: cherry blossoms in spring, Mount Aso in summer, the autumn foliage valley, and a snow-covered village in winter. The brushstrokes were delicate and the colors elegant.
Mage, holding Misae’s hand, curiously whispered, “Big sister, look at that painting, doesn’t it look a lot like when we went to Mount Aso last year?”
Misae smiled and nodded, “It does look very similar, but the volcano in the painting is more spectacular than what we saw.”
As they reached the private room’s doorway, Manager Yamada gently pulled open the sliding door, and a faint aroma of sandalwood mixed with cherry blossom tea wafted towards them.
The private room was spacious and bright, with an oval cypress wood dining table in the center. The surface of the table was polished to a jade-like smoothness, reflecting the soft glow of the paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling.
Two low stools were placed by the window, overlooking the restaurant’s courtyard. A few early cherry trees had already budded with pale pink blossoms, swaying gently in the breeze.
“Please be seated, everyone. First, please try our restaurant’s cherry blossom tea, brewed with tender buds picked this morning.”
As Manager Yamada spoke, he gestured for the servers to place a tea bowl in front of each person.
The pale pink tea soup gleamed in the white porcelain bowls. Taking a sip brought a floral sweetness that calmed the mind before the meal even began.
Once everyone was seated, Manager Yamada bowed slightly, “The dishes are being prepared according to the Kaiseki Cuisine set you reserved. We will serve the appetizers first, and the subsequent courses will be brought out in order. Please let me know if you need anything at any time.”
With that, he quietly withdrew, pulling the sliding door shut.
After taking just two sips of tea, Takao Oyama couldn’t help but look at Fujiwara Temari, her eyes full of anticipation. “Mrs. Fujiwara, regarding the date for our Misae and Isshin’s engagement, we didn’t get to discuss it properly at the doorway earlier. Which month in the latter half of the year do you think would be suitable? Hiroshi and I were thinking it would be best to avoid the rainy season, as it’s inconvenient to go out then.”
Fujiwara Temari put down her tea bowl, a gentle smile on her face. “Mrs. Oyama and I are thinking along the same lines! Isshin’s father and I also find the rainy season too troublesome; clothes don’t dry, and we have to carry umbrellas when we go out. If the engagement banquet falls on a rainy day, it would really dampen the mood. I’ve checked the calendar, and September would be quite good. September in Kumamoto is neither too hot nor too cold, and we can also have fresh Matsutake Mushrooms then. We can even add a Matsutake Mushroom dish to the banquet menu. How wonderful.”
Fujiwara Motomaru picked up the conversation, his fingers tapping lightly on the tabletop. “September is indeed suitable. Furthermore, the first weekend of September is the ‘Kumamoto Castle Culture Festival.’ Although our engagement banquet doesn’t need to coincide with that hustle and bustle, the atmosphere in the city will be good then, and it will be convenient for guests to travel. I think September 7th would be good. The lunar and solar calendars indicate it’s ‘auspicious for engagements,’ and it’s a Saturday, so people from the Prefectural Office and Isshin’s friends will be available to attend.”
Yoshiharu Oyama immediately nodded, his eyes lighting up. “September 7th! That’s a great date!” He turned to Misae, his tone full of affection, “Misae, what do you think?”
Misae’s cheeks flushed, and with her hands on her knees, she softly replied, “I’ll do whatever my father and mother, and uncle and aunt, decide.”
Isshin Fujiwara immediately looked at Misae, his gaze gentle. “If you think September 7th is inconvenient, we can change the date.”
“No, no,” Misae quickly shook her head. “September 7th is perfectly fine. I like September too; the osmanthus in the yard will be blooming then, and the scent is lovely.”
Misae smiled and teased, “Sister, I’ll prepare some osmanthus-scented souvenirs for you then, they’ll surely be very popular. Oh, Aunt Fujiwara, how many people are you planning to invite to the engagement banquet? On our side of the family, there are about thirty relatives and neighbors. If we add Father’s friends from his old school, there might be another dozen or so.”
Fujiwara Temari took out her notebook and jotted down as she spoke, “On our side, there are about fifty colleagues from the Prefectural Office and relatives, plus about twenty of Isshin’s university classmates and friends. That brings the total to around 120 people. The largest private room in Sakura Village can seat fifteen tables, which should be enough. We’ll arrange the tables with plenty of space so that no one feels cramped.”
“Yes, yes, plenty of space is good.”
Takao Oyama quickly chimed in, “The last engagement banquet I attended for a neighbor’s child had tables placed too close together, making it difficult to even reach for dishes. We should remind Manager Yamada to use tableware with cherry blossom patterns; they look festive. And ensure the portions aren’t too small, so guests don’t go hungry.”
Fujiwara Motomaru took a sip of tea and added, “For the drinks, besides sake and beer, let’s also prepare some juice and soft drinks. This way, there will be options for children and ladies who don’t drink alcohol. Oh, Isshin, you need to reconfirm with your elder brother, Ichimasa, if he can return on September 7th. As the elder brother, he’ll need to help host guests at the engagement banquet.”
Mentioning his elder brother, Isshin Fujiwara paused for a moment before nodding, “I called my elder brother again last night. He said the project should be wrapping up by early September, and he will definitely be back. He also said he wants to prepare an engagement gift for Misae and told me not to tell her in advance, as he wants it to be a surprise.”
“That’s more like it,” Fujiwara Motomaru’s expression softened considerably. “If he dares to be absent again, I will definitely have a good word with him. He didn’t come back for Lunar New Year last year, so he absolutely must come back for Misae’s engagement banquet this time.”
Fujiwara Temari smiled and patted her husband’s arm. “Don’t always scold Ichimasa; it’s not easy for him working in Kyoto. He mentioned on our last call that he wants to take the opportunity while he’s back to discuss a promotion plan for Kumamoto with Hiroshi-san. He said the Prefectural Office wants to cooperate with Tokyo TV to film a short film introducing Kumamoto’s culture and customs.”
Upon hearing this, Hiroshi Nohara immediately chimed in, “If the Prefectural Office has this idea, we can discuss it thoroughly. When we were designing Kumamon, I felt that Kumamoto has many things worth promoting, such as Mount Aso, Kumamoto Castle, and our specialty dishes. If we could film a series of short films, it would surely attract more tourists.”
Fujiwara Motomaru’s eyes lit up, and he leaned forward slightly. “What Hiroshi-san is saying really resonates with me! Kumamoto’s economy still relies on tourism to drive it forward. If we can get Tokyo TV to help with promotion, the effect will surely be different. After the engagement banquet, I’ll have Isshin liaise with the Prefectural Office’s publicity department, and we’ll need to trouble Hiroshi-san to put in some extra effort then.”
“You are too kind,” Hiroshi Nohara smiled and shook his head. “Isshin-san and I are family, so it’s only right to help promote Kumamoto. Besides, with Misae-nee marrying into our family, I’m practically a Kumamoto local now. It’s my duty to do things for my hometown.”
Everyone nodded in agreement, smiling.
“Excuse me for the interruption!”
Just then, the sliding door was gently opened, and a server entered with exquisite appetizers.
The first dish was “Hassun,” a platter so artfully arranged it resembled a piece of artwork. On the snow-white porcelain plate were pickled cherry shrimp, golden-grilled sea bream pieces, thinly sliced shiso plums, and “imitation salmon roe” made from tofu. The colors were perfectly balanced, making one reluctant to disturb it with chopsticks.
Manager Yamada followed behind, smiling as he introduced, “This is our restaurant’s signature appetizer. The sea bream was delivered fresh from Nagasaki Port this morning. The shiso plums are made from green plums from last year; they are sweet and sour, and serve to whet the appetite. Please enjoy.”
Takao Oyama picked up his chopsticks and took a small piece of sea bream, his eyes immediately brightening. “This sea bream is so fresh! The meat is tender, not at all dry. Hiroshi, you must try it.”
Hiroshi Oyama also picked up a piece and chewed slowly, nodding. “It’s indeed very good, fresher than what I had in Tokyo last time. Misae, you try some too. This shiso plum is very appetizing; eat more of the main dishes later.”
Misae obediently picked up a small piece of shiso plum. The sweet and sour taste spread in her mouth, indeed helping to relax her somewhat nervous feelings.
Isshin Fujiwara watched her and smiled, offering her a cherry shrimp from his own plate. “These cherry shrimp are very tender, try them. They’re good for calcium.”
Mage looked at the dishes on the table, her eyes wide, and reached for the chopsticks, but Takao Oyama gently tapped her hand. “Wait a moment. Say thank you to Uncle and Aunt Fujiwara first, then eat.”
Mage quickly put down her chopsticks, bowed to Fujiwara Motomaru and Fujiwara Temari, “Thank you, Uncle Fujiwara, thank you, Aunt Fujiwara. These dishes look so delicious.”
Fujiwara Temari was amused by her cute demeanor and quickly waved her hand. “Eat up, don’t be shy. If you like it, we’ll have Manager Yamada bring you another portion later.”
Mage immediately broke into a radiant smile, picked up her chopsticks, and put a piece of “imitation salmon roe” in her mouth. After chewing, she exclaimed in surprise, “Wow! This is just like real salmon roe, QQ and bouncy, so delicious! Big sister, you try some too!” She then tried to offer some to Misae, but Misae smiled and stopped her, “You eat it yourself, I can pick my own.”
Everyone couldn’t help but laugh at Mage’s lively antics, and the somewhat reserved atmosphere instantly became lively.
Isshin Fujiwara looked at the scene before him, his heart filled with gratification. He had initially worried that the different backgrounds of the two families might create a gap in their interactions, but now it seemed he had been overthinking.
The Oyama family were all very easygoing, Misae was sensible, Mage was lively, Hiroshi was steady, and even the youngest, Mage, was so cute. Isshin was truly fortunate to marry Misae.
As a father, Fujiwara Motomaru picked up the sake bottle, poured a cup for Hiroshi Oyama, and then poured one for himself. He raised his glass. “Mr. Oyama, I am very happy to be sitting here with your family today, discussing our children’s marriage. I’d like to toast you with this cup, wishing for our two families to grow ever closer, and wishing Misae and Isshin happiness.”
Hiroshi Oyama quickly raised his glass and clinked it with his, his tone sincere. “Mr. Fujiwara, I’d like to toast you as well. Being able to form a marital alliance with the Fujiwara family is a blessing for our Oyama family. From now on, we are one family. We will support each other and let our children live their lives well.”
The two men smiled at each other and drank their wine.
The mellow aroma of the sake spread in their mouths, bringing a touch of warmth and bringing the two families even closer.
Misae looked at the scene before her, quietly tugged on Hiroshi’s hand, and whispered, “Hiroshi, look how happy everyone is. I truly hope Sister and Isshin-san can be this happy forever.”
Hiroshi held her hand tighter, his gaze gentle. “They will be, they will definitely be happy.”
He looked out the window at the cherry blossom buds in the courtyard, tinged with a pale pink under the sunlight, perfectly mirroring the warm and beautiful atmosphere in the private room. The days ahead, like these soon-to-bloom cherry blossoms, were full of hope.
The servers continued to bring out subsequent dishes: perfectly grilled Wagyu beef, fresh Sea Urchin Sushi, and soup made with Matsutake Mushrooms. Each dish was exquisite and delicious.
As they ate, they discussed the details of the engagement banquet – from venue decoration and menu selection to the guest list and souvenir preparations. Every detail was discussed with utmost seriousness, occasionally leading to minor disagreements over an idea, but they always reached a consensus, their tones filled with anticipation for the couple’s future.
Mage, with a full belly, leaned back in her chair and looked at the lively scene before her. Suddenly, she said, “When Sister gets engaged, I want to wear the prettiest dress and take a picture with Kumamon!”
Everyone present couldn’t help but laugh at her words.
Fujiwara Motomaru smiled and nodded. “Alright, we’ll have Isshin bring Kumamon then for you to take a picture with.”
Mage immediately clapped her hands excitedly. “That’s great! Thank you, Uncle Fujiwara!”
Laughter echoed throughout the private room. Sunlight streamed through the paper sliding doors, casting dappled light and shadow on the tatami mats. The air was filled with the aroma of food and a sense of warmth – this was perhaps the most beautiful picture of family reunion, simple and warm, yet deeply reassuring.
