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Episode 271

I didn't do anything!

The president of this store wronged me!

I'm sorry for all this commotion.

I think somebody from the store called you by mistake.

There's been no harm done here.

That lady probably didn't mean it,

so please let her go.

No!

That woman threatened us with a knife!

I want her arrested.

You keep quiet, and stay out of this!

Please wait!

Please! Wait a minute!

Mother is late...

What was that woman trying to do anyway?

What a mess!

The customers were inconvenienced, too.

It affects our store's reputation, too.

She shouldn't have hit Hitoshi like that.

Mother isn't one to do something without reason.

You must know why she hit you, Hitoshi.

What a disaster! I hope no bad rumors spread.

Mother.

I had them release her.

You shouldn't have to bend over backwards for a woman like that.

Don't you realize what a terrible thing you've done?

You probably have no idea why I hit you!

That woman has got a grudge against what we did.

But I made a legitimate transaction.

Legitimate transaction?

You tricked someone out of his land!

I don't want to hear it!

I paid for that property.

I borrowed money from the bank to buy it.

How can you talk like that!

That lady, Senko's family runs a sweet shop,

and has been there for generations.

They were good customers of mine when I used to sell fish.

What's the use of bringing up the past?

After the war, they'd bring us sweets,

and ask how we were all doing.

I was so grateful to them.

I'm very obligated to them.

Senko's the man's only daughter.

She took an adoptive husband seven or eight years ago,

and her father died soon after.

This husband wasted the family's money,

and he came crying to me.

He promised to stop drinking and gambling,

so I lent him some money.

And I took his land as collateral, but in name only.

I had no idea that you were capable of such a callous act!

No wonder she's angry!

She can't resent us. That's unreasonable.

That husband of hers is at fault!

Hitoshi!

I'm sure you have your own ideas on this,

but you can't do business if you keep giving in

to moral debts and obligations!

The vice president didn't really want to do it,

but he did it for the Tanokura family.

Never mind.

It's already too late to do anything.

But we'll buy that lady another plot of land.

That's nonsense!

You want them thrown out into the streets without any place to go?

We need every plot of land we can get.

We need more land than we have money for!

I will not have you talk that way.

I'm the president of this store!

If I let you run it by yourself, we will be bankrupt!

Are you still working?

Hitoshi wants to open up two new stores.

I'm shocked by these cost estimates!

This is more than the bank will lend us,

even if we mortgaged this house and store.

I thought all my money troubles were over,

but I guess I'll be saddled with loans forever.

Why does he want a new store?

We make enough profit out of this one.

You might be satisfied with how things are now,

but Hitoshi and Tatsunori are young and ambitious.

I wouldn't mind if profits were guaranteed from the new store,

but if something goes wrong, we'll lose everything we have.

Maybe you're getting old.

You never talked like this before.

In any case, the final decision is up to you.

If you don't want it, then don't do it.

We went through a lot in getting that land,

so we can't cancel our plans now.

All the right conditions are in place.

Let him try it, even if he should fail.

But I won't be able to help Nozomi now...

Didn't you say you had money saved up for me?

Yes. I bought stock certificates for your future,

so you'll never have to worry about money.

Can't we give it to Nozomi?

No! I will never touch that money.

It's too bad for Nozomi...

But I wish I could do something for him...

You have an idea?

I'm going to be busy!

I won't have time to go on a pilgrimage to Shikoku.

Come in.

Hello.

You haven't changed at all.

You, too.

My wife and I are retired, but you're still working.

I wish I could retire, too, but I can't trust

those young people to run the family business yet.

That's why they resent us old people.

You stay young by thinking like that!

I'd like to forget about business once and for all.

Let's go in for some tea.

Very interesting...

Was this made by a young person?

Nozomi made it.

I'd been meaning to bring it to you.

Nozomi was able to win a prize recently,

and I wanted you to have this piece.

Nozomi made this?

Okayo used to paint very well, too.

There's similar passion to be found here.

So he's Okayo's son, after all.

Are you pleased by it?

It's a great piece.

Congratulations.

He's finally matured as potter.

You've realized that promise you made to Okayo.

No, not until Nozomi can have his own kiln.

I'd been meaning to help him financially,

but we're set to open up a branch store soon.

I'd opposed the idea, but my son insists.

I don't know how the new store will do,

but we'll just have to try it, and see.

That's why I can't help Nozomi now.

I understand.

The new store demands all your finances.

I have stock certificates here.

I wonder if you can loan me the money

to allow Nozomi to become independent.

I could sell those stock certificates,

but I'd been saving them to ensure Hatsuko's future.

That's why I can't bring myself to sell them.

I'm embarrassed to have to tell you all our family problems,

but I don't want my son to know about this at all.

I see.

They grew up together, but I'm sure it gets complicated.

Considering how much Hatsuko has done for the Tanokura family.

All right. I'll help you.

Really?

Okayo's son is no stranger to me.

And considering what Okayo and I went through together,

it's only natural that I help her son.

Thank you.

I'd like to visit him once the kiln is completed.

Yes, please do. Okayo would be happy, too.

Okayo's son...

- I'm home! - Welcome back.

You were out for a while.

I hadn't gone out to visit in a while.

I think we can help Nozomi out.

Mr. Namiki has consented to help us?

- Don't tell Hitoshi. - I won't.

I'm sure you feel relieved.

No, there's a lot more for me to do now.

Soon construction for the second and third Tanokura Store began,

and Nozomi's home and kiln were also being built.

It was another gamble for Oshin,

and she staked everything she owned on these projects.

Episode 272

It sure is hot.

Welcome back.

How did it go?

They sure put up buildings quickly these days.

The building is easy.

It's people and what we sell in the store that really counts!

We can sell similar products as we do now.

Shall we continue with the same suppliers?

Yes. Keep the same suppliers.

Since we'll be buying three times as much,

they'll give us a break on all of our wholesale purchases.

The more branch stores we have, the lower we can price our goods.

That's the biggest merit for us.

What counts is selling quality products at lower prices!

Tatsunori and I can keep the stores supplied.

But we'll have to hire a lot of new people,

and train them properly before the stores open.

Why not make Jiro and Isao managers of our new stores?

They've worked for us since the very beginning,

and they understand the business well.

If that's what you want, I have no objections.

Appoint them as our managers right away.

I'll remain the manager of our main store.

Tatsunori is always working in the background,

but please keep up your good efforts.

You should close up that small store you own.

You're not making money with it anyway.

Tei has been trying her best...

The location is bad, and once our third store opens,

you will lose even more business.

Besides, you will be busier than ever here.

That's true. It's a lot of work for Tei, too.

She needs to concentrate on being a housewife.

Just turn the retail space into your living quarters.

You'll have a very big house!

I guess we can let Tei relax a bit.

We want Tatsunori to be able to make a good living

as a director of our company.

Welcome home!

- I'm home. - Grandma is here.

Kei, be more polite!

Never mind. He's just a little boy.

Your mother has been waiting for you.

I'm sorry. I had to do some errands for the Master.

I was just leaving.

I just came to see how the construction was coming along.

I showed her the site.

Please stay and have these fancy sweets.

I'll make tea.

Mother. Thank you for building me the kiln.

You don't know how grateful I am.

As I've said before the money didn't come from me,

so don't even thank me!

I don't know about the studio,

but your living quarters seem a bit small.

- It only has two rooms. - We don't need luxuries.

But it's too small!

Two rooms are more than enough room for us.

Nozomi spends most of his time in the studio anyway.

He comes home just to sleep, so it's just Kei and me.

Maybe it's good for now,

but you'll need more room for having more children.

We'll just add on if we have.

Yuri.

We're just grateful to have our own house.

We're only renting now,

so we're looking forward to having our own house!

You're not greedy at all, are you, Yuri?

We're thankful that people are financing us.

We shouldn't complain.

Yuri is worried about my ability to pay back the loan.

That's silly. I will always be there to help you.

It's my loan, and I'll pay it all back.

But I still have no idea who this Mr. Namiki is...

Never mind. I'll take full responsibility.

So it's really all your own money?

Who cares about that!

You just worry about making Yuri and Kei happy.

The Tanokura Store needs money now,

and I know you're not having an easy time financially.

Isn't that why you asked Mr. Namiki for help?

But since I don't know this Mr. Namiki,

I don't want you to get in trouble

should something happen to my ability to repay the loan.

- Mr. Namiki isn't like that. - But...

He's your late mother's former sweetheart.

To tell you the truth, I loved him, too.

But Okayo and I both ended up marrying someone else.

Mr. Namiki has always helped me out for almost 40 years now.

He's been our benefactor.

When I talked to him about you,

he was happy to help us with the financing.

He said that any son of Okayo was no stranger to him.

And he seemed to be remembering Okayo

when I gave him one of your vases.

He sat and studied it for a long time.

I'd never told you about him

because I didn't want people to misunderstand.

My memories of him are very precious to me.

I'd promised myself that I'd forever keep him a secret,

but he is a very special person to you.

Hatsuko knows about it,

but please don't tell Hitoshi and Tei.

I know you and Hatsuko can understand,

but not Hitoshi or Tei.

I'd feel badly for Mr. Namiki

if people were to speculate about us after all these years.

Once the kiln is done, he'd like to come to see it.

May I bring him up here?

In the fall of that year,

the second and third Tanokura Stores opened for business.

Their reputation had grown in the community,

and customers flocked to the new stores.

It was just as Hitoshi and Tatsunori had planned it.

- Cheers! - Cheers!

Our grand opening sale was going very well.

- Thank you all. - You've done a good work.

My legs are sore from being on my feet every day!

Me, too. I got dizzy working the cash register.

Our second store's clientèle is so different.

We get a lot of wives of office workers. But there, it's mostly wives of farmers.

I'm glad we built a big parking lot.

People come from all over now.

They buy a lot, too!

On weekends, they walk out with more than they can carry!

Since our second and third stores are doing so well,

we'll have to think about further expansion.

Isn't this enough?

No. Our chain store plan is just getting started.

But, Hitoshi...

Big outfits have 10 to 20 stores nowadays.

We can't just stand around and watch.

The next one should be in a residential area.

There's a piece of property that you own

that's slated to be zoned for residential use in the future.

We should build you a house there, too!

We need a bigger house for our kids, too!

Yes, I know.

We want one, too!

We're still living in our old store.

Ask your husband...

Please work harder for us!

They're all so selfish...

That's all right.

It's all up to Hitoshi and Tatsunori now.

We're still not really sure how our second and third stores will do,

and they're talking about opening a fourth store.

They should realize that it's not all that easy.

They're all working hard for their families.

We should be happy that they have money to build new homes.

What about Nozomi's house?

It should be done by the end of this month.

I'd like to go visit them.

I haven't seen Yuri in a long time.

Yes, please do go for a visit.

Yuri will be so happy to see you.

Look, Hatsuko!

It's you, Mother.

And, Hatsuko!

So it's done!

Yes. Thank you! We move in tomorrow.

We were going to ask you both to come visit us

- once we were all settled in. - Congratulations.

Aren't you glad you persevered all this time?

Yes. Please come in.

We took Mother's advice and added another room.

I love the smell of new lumber and fresh tatami mats.

Kei is very happy, too.

Thank you very much.

A lot has happened, but...

I'm so glad for you.

Yuri was so happy! I'm glad we visited.

And the dinner she made us was delicious.

Please rush back to Nozomi's!

What happened?

Yuri has been in a traffic accident.

That can't be! We just saw her.

Nozomi just called.

They will need someone to watch Kei.

I will rush over too if I'm needed.

Get a taxi to take you.

Here's some money. You might need it.

They had just had dinner with Yuri.

Now she was hurt in a traffic accident.

Episode 273

Nozomi...

Yuri!

She passed on about 10 minutes ago...

Yuri... Don't die!

You're moving into your new house tomorrow.

You were looking forward to it.

Yuri!

- Hatsuko... - Yuri!

Yuri...

She's still warm...

She can't be dead! Yuri!

Yuri! Yuri...

Yuri! Yuri!

- Yuri! - Hatsuko...

Mother...!

I'll take Yuri home... to your new house.

The light won't go on.

That bulb is out.

You never used it.

Somebody go and get us a light bulb.

We can't have the kitchen dark.

What about the funeral arrangements?

It's too late to call anyone for a wake.

Will it be postponed until tomorrow night?

That must be Yuri.

Kei must've known somehow.

He cried himself to sleep.

I'm so sorry.

I brought him here since you were bringing her home.

Shall we take Kei for the night?

No, thank you.

Yuri will be lonely here without Kei.

He'll have to be told about Yuri, too.

Yes...

I called the funeral parlor for you.

This must've come as a great shock to you, too.

Please don't despair.

Thank you very much...

I'll visit again tomorrow...

We'll be going now,

but don't hesitate to call if you need us for anything.

Thank you.

Look, Nozomi...

She's so pretty.

You're home now...

You're brand new home...

Kei is here, too.

Please always be with us here in this house...

We've put a new bulb in the kitchen, too.

You were looking forward to cooking in here.

Yuri...

Yuri!

Let Yuri sleep.

She made clams and rice for us tonight.

It was delicious,

and we told her you were lucky to have her as your wife.

I caused her to suffer in poverty a long time.

So I was hoping she'd be able to enjoy life a little more now.

She was so happy about this new house.

I wish she could have lived in it...

Nozomi...

After you and Hatsuko left,

she insisted on going out to buy a bulb for the kitchen.

She always said her kitchen was her castle.

She took Kei with her.

Why didn't I go in her place?!

I didn't want Yuri always living in a humble, rented house...

...and what I did for her led to this tragedy...

No...

Yuri was so happy that you helped us build this house.

She died at the height of her happiness.

Thank you for letting her be so happy.

Kei.

I need to go to the bathroom.

I'll take you.

I want my mother!

Kei...

Where is she?

I need to go!

Kei...

Mother!

Mother!

Mother...

Mother!

Mother.

Please get me my tabi.

Thanks.

Good morning.

What's going on?!

We came as soon as you called.

Sorry to get you both up so early.

We'll be having the wake this evening.

Please accept my condolences.

The funeral services will be tomorrow,

so I'll be staying up there.

Please take care of the store for me.

I'll be there for the services tomorrow.

I had to make breakfast for the kids,

so I haven't eaten. Thanks for the milk.

I'm sorry we have nothing else.

- We'll be leaving now. - Okay.

Wait. Hitoshi and Michiko are coming, too.

I told them they could come with us.

You didn't even tell Hitoshi! And he's the family's eldest son.

You told him?

We had to make plans.

I'm sorry we're late.

We had to arrange for a babysitter.

You told Tei, but you forgot to tell me!

I was worried all night.

My condolences. If there's anything I can do...

Never mind the formalities. Let's go.

You and Michiko don't have to go.

It's all right.

I can leave the store for the day.

I've brought a change of clothes, too.

Thank you, but I insist.

Mother...

You have no right to see Yuri now.

She wouldn't want you there anyway!

I haven't forgiven you either.

I'm sure you know exactly what I'm talking about.

That was a long time ago.

Maybe it's nothing to you,

but Yuri never visited us because of you.

You'd really hurt her!

Michiko, I'm very sorry.

- Tei. Get us a taxi. - Okay.

Oshin had blurted it all out

without even considering the implications of what she said,

and the rift this revelation would cause between Hitoshi and Michiko.

Episode 274

In the fall of 1962,

Nozomi's wife, Yuri, was killed in a traffic accident.

She was to have moved into her new home the very next day.

The sight of the now motherless Kei brought tears to everyone's eyes.

Thank you for coming to her funeral.

I know this is very hard on you,

but don't neglect the very impor- tant work you have ahead of you.

I won't.

I want to do good work, for Yuri's sake.

Yuri always supported me in my work.

She persevered through poverty, and never stopped smiling.

She believed in my work.

Nozomi...

If I stop my pottery,

Yuri won't be able to rest in peace.

I'll keep making good pieces for her.

You must go on for Kei's sake, too.

Mother...

- You need to go to the bathroom? - Where's my mother?

- I'll take you. - Where's my mother?

I told you she's gone far away.

Then I'll go, too!

No. You have to stay here, and wait for her.

I'm going!

You must listen, and do as I say!

Or I won't care about you anymore.

Nozomi!

I have to be firm with him.

He doesn't under- stand what death is.

When is my mother coming back?

If you're good.

You can't keep fooling him!

What else am I supposed to do?

If he were younger he wouldn't even be missing her,

and if he were older he'd be able to understand that she's dead.

He's at a very difficult age.

Time will solve everything.

I need to go to the bathroom.

I'll take you.

I want my father to take me!

Let's go.

He can't work with Kei always being so close.

Somebody has to be here with him.

Nozomi needs care, too.

Especially now when he's ready to get to work in the studio.

That's why I plan on staying here for a while.

- It's too much work for you! - It's all right.

I'm used to hard work.

The only thing is...

Maybe I can stay.

Kei will get in the way of your work.

I'll work even if I have to carry him on my back.

I know you don't want to let Kei go.

With Yuri gone, Kei is all you've got now.

But he'll still be in your way.

No.

Maybe I should take him until you're all settled into your work here.

If he stays here,

he'll never get over the loss of his mother.

A new environment will help him to forget.

If you're serious about working, bring yourself to let him go.

You can't do that to Nozomi and Kei!

I'm doing it for their own good.

Let me stay here and help them.

Nozomi needs someone to cook for him,

and I'm sure Kei will take to me in no time.

Never mind. I'll let him stay with Mother.

You'll be here all by yourself!

I will manage, and Yuri is still here with me.

I do have to work seriously, after all.

Mother went out of her way to set me up here.

I can't be worried about Kei now.

I have to work. I have loans to repay.

That's not what I'm worried about.

It's just that this is a crucial time for you.

I understand.

Please take good care of Kei.

Don't worry. It'll just be for a while.

Once you settle into your work here, you two can be together again.

I'll need Hatsuko's help, too.

Poor Kei... He's cried himself to sleep.

He'll start up again when he wakes up.

Will Nozomi be all right? He's all alone now.

It's good that he is by himself now.

If he can't make it alone, he's not much of a man.

Mother.

With Kei there, he'd just feel worse.

This way, he can forget about things while he concentrates on his work.

He has no choice now but to work.

Mother...

I'm right here for you.

I'll take care of you.

You're a good boy.

He's so cute...

I'm sure Yuri hated leaving him.

Kei will get used to things here.

He only has us now to depend on.

He'll be all right.

I feel clean at last.

I haven't had a bath in three days.

Shall I make a snack for you?

With the funeral and everything,

we haven't even had the time to eat properly.

I'm hungry.

You must be exhausted.

Kei must be, too. He's sound asleep.

All those people at the funeral probably made him feel nervous.

Hitoshi! You scared me. Coming in unannounced.

Are you drunk?

I was walking by, and I saw the lights on.

You came back early.

I figured you'd be staying with Nozomi for a few days.

The funeral went well,

so we decided to come home early.

I'm sorry I couldn't be there.

Nozomi must be having a rough time of it.

Somebody should be there with him!

He can't stay depressed forever.

That's not going to bring Yuri back.

They must've been so happy together.

How could the gods have done this?

Anything happen while I was away?

What are you making? I'm starved.

- It's udon. Will it do? - That's just fine!

What time do you think it is?

Why don't you go home and eat?

Michiko will be angry if you stay out late.

Nobody will say anything~.

Oh sure. You're afraid of her!

You always talk big when you drink.

There's nobody home!

Nothing to eat there. Maybe I'll stay here.

Hitoshi...

Michiko has gone home to Nagoya with the kids.

The kids are supposed to be in school!

Did something happen?

No. She says she's sick of me.

That's silly.

This is no time for a domestic quarrel.

The kids shouldn't be missing school.

Who are you to say such things!

It's all your fault!

What did I do?

I haven't told you half the things I really want to say.

I'm so careful of what I say to Michiko.

Oh, sure!

You didn't even let us come to Yuri's wake!

You know what you did to Yuri.

Yes, I know.

Nozomi wouldn't have been happy to see me,

and Yuri wouldn't want me there either.

That's why I didn't go.

But that started a big fight!

Michiko got upset that we weren't allowed to attend.

And she accused me of having an affair with Yuri in the past.

Hitoshi...

I can't blame her.

Nozomi is my brother, and he just lost his wife.

She was ready to help at the funeral!

Then you refused her that chance.

From what you said,

any fool would guess that I'd done something terrible to Yuri.

I had no way of explaining myself.

I give up!

You told Michiko about you and Yuri?

She kept asking me. I had to tell her!

If you love Michiko, you should have denied everything.

You're an idiot for having told her!

I had no idea that what I said caused you so much trouble.

I was upset, and the words just came out.

I'll come home, and live here with you two.

I'd rather live here than be with someone I have to be afraid of.

Kei. You're here! Good boy.

This house will be cheerful again...

- We're back! - We're back!

Welcome home.

Kei and I are very close now.

- Aren't we, Kei? - Yeah.

How nice!

Going out?

Don't interfere in Michiko and my problems.

If she doesn't want to come home, I don't care.

I'll never beg her to come home.

I like it here.

Both you and Hatsuko are good to me, and Kei is here, too.

Oshin couldn't just leave their problems alone.

A mother's worries are never over...

And Oshin will have to cope again...

Episode 275

After Yuri's death,

Michiko found out that Yuri had once been Hitoshi's lover.

She took the children and went home to her parents.

- Good morning. - Good morning.

Were you planning to sleep all day?

Michiko is tired. Let her sleep.

- Do you want breakfast? - Yeah.

- Where's Akane? - They're out playing.

But Midori is here to keep me company.

What about school for the kids?

They can transfer to a school over here.

Michiko.

Would you like bread or rice?

Leave her alone! She's no child!

You've spoiled her too much.

Michiko was betrayed by Hitoshi, and she's come home to us.

What's wrong with a man having other lovers?

Besides, that was before they were married!

I don't like having been lied to! He married right after that affair.

I'm angry at myself for having trusted him.

Just remember. No matter how many women he's had,

he chose to marry you!

A man wouldn't understand.

I've had a lot of trouble with your father's affairs, too,

so I know how you feel.

I never said a word, and I persevered.

But times have changed!

What will happen if you get a divorce?

I'll take care of Michiko and her kids right here.

Our son already lives here with his wife!

You don't want me here?

Don't worry. I'd love to have you here.

With three grandchildren here, I won't be lonely.

Women...

Michiko is your favorite, too. You want her here.

- Can you make me coffee? - Yes.

Who could that be?

Who is it?

It's Mrs. Tanokura.

Just a minute, please.

Your mother-in-law is here. I will send her away.

I don't want to see her.

No. Let her in. Clean this place up!

No!

You stay in the back.

I will give her a piece of my mind!

Give her a piece of my mind, too!

Come in.

Please, sit down.

I'm sorry to come without warning.

Please skip the formalities.

Thank you for contributing to Yuri's memory so generously.

That was a tragedy!

There are so many cars out there...

It's a terrible world we live in.

The services went well, but when I got home I discovered

that Michiko and the children were here with you.

I'm so sorry to trouble you.

Do you realize why she came home?

Yes... I know it's not my place to interfere,

but since you're being inconvenienced...

I don't know why you're here,

but Michiko had good reason for coming home to us.

We understand how she must feel,

and if she wants a divorce, we support her.

- Quiet! - Am I wrong?

Your son had a lover, and yet he married Michiko.

I understand it was an intimate relationship.

And you knew about it!

Yes, you had your son marry my daughter.

You passed off Yuri on Nozomi, too!

How could you do such a thing?

You should've forced Hitoshi to marry Yuri!

You're so right. It's all my fault.

Apologizing now won't help.

I already know what you and your son were up to.

That's enough!

Yuri's parents are poor,

and marrying her wouldn't have done any good,

but Michiko has us backing her financially.

Isn't that why your son married Michiko?

And you approved. I can tell!

You're being rude!

Isn't that what happened?!

Even if Yuri was just an employee,

as Hitoshi's mother she should've made him marry Yuri!

I feel sorry for Michiko!

She had no idea, and she trusted Hitoshi.

- She's been used! - Stop it!

Mrs. Tanokura isn't like that!

I offered to finance the self-service market,

but she turned me down!

You're insinuating that they conspired

to get Michiko marry into their family for money!

They made a lot of money selling our line of clothes

because we gave it to them cheap.

They had it all figured out!

You fool!

I'm the one who asked them to sell our clothes!

It gave us an outlet for all the merchandise

returned to us by the department stores.

We made money, too!

That's true, and you had Michiko marry him

for the money you were intent on making!

Poor Michiko. Surrounded by greedy people!

You idiot!

Stop it!

That's why I was against this marriage!

I didn't trust Hitoshi,

and your father cares nothing about you.

All he cares about is money! I knew you'd be miserable...

Do you think so, too?

And if you do, there's no choice for you but to divorce Hitoshi.

Mr. Kawabe...

You're a disgrace to the Tanokuras.

I can't have you go back there to lose face!

They made Tanokura Super what it is on their own.

They did it without help from anyone.

It wasn't your doing, nor was it mine!

If you feel used, you shouldn't go back.

Just get a divorce!

I won't let her go back!

Go back to your room.

Michiko! Please come home!

Let me apologize for what happened.

You don't have to bow down.

I'm sure she has her reasons for being angry,

so just vent your anger on me.

I just want Michiko to come home.

There is no use talking about Yuri now.

She's passed on.

So please let it go, and start over with Hitoshi.

There's no use getting an apology from you,

Hitoshi should be the one to ask her to come back.

I'm the one who raised my son like that.

I'm responsible for him!

He's the father of three children now,

and he needs Michiko to make a good home for them.

Please understand that. I'm begging you.

Grandma...

You were here?

Let's go home.

I don't want to miss school anymore.

Let's go home. Your father is waiting.

Michiko...

Get ready to go home.

But, Dear...

It's over.

I didn't know you had Kei here.

Now you have your hands full again!

No. He's very cute. This is no work at all.

Everybody counts on you so much. When will you ever get married?

I've given up on that a long time ago.

I don't want to have to start life again with a stranger.

I'd rather just take care of Kei. That suits me just fine.

I'm leaving. You're too busy to go out.

I'm sorry.

I realize that kids Kei's age require a lot of attention.

Bye.

- You're back Mother! - Welcome home.

You were over at the Kawabe's? How did it go?

I hope you were firm with them.

They think they're so rich and powerful,

but we don't have to take a back seat to them!

Why did you do that?

Grandma...

Michiko's father called. You were over there?

Why did you do that?

He apologized for his wife being so rude to you.

What did she say to you?

I went there to get Michiko for the sake of the children.

I sat there and got insulted for the sake of the children.

I let her continue belittling me.

It's nobody's fault but mine. I raised you.

I raised you to throw Yuri over and marry Michiko.

I deserved everything I got.

But remember...

Don't ever let the children grow up with a single parent.

And that's why I put up with everything.

I listened and persevered.

It's enough that Kei suffers with only one parent.

Episode 276

Towards the end of 1967,

following the 49th-day memorial service for Yuri,

a dedication was to be held for Nozomi's new studio.

We'd better get up at 5 a.m. tomorrow.

I'll have everything ready. You can stay in bed.

The nishime is done, so it's just the egg dish.

I'd better finish Kei's sweater by tomorrow.

You don't have to do that. He has others to wear.

I want him to wear the sweater I made.

Nozomi will be very happy.

Kei has finally gotten used to me.

Kids are honest.

They know who takes good care of them.

Nozomi and the apprentices

will start to work right after the dedication ceremony.

Maybe he will ask to take Kei back.

I'm sure he misses Kei...

It will be lonely here without Kei.

Michiko!

What brings you over so late?

I'm sorry to barge in so late at night.

Is Hitoshi here?

He hasn't come home yet?

No.

He didn't come home last night either.

He's been staying out all night lately.

Where does he go?

He...

He must have another woman, after all.

That can't be...

I can't think of any other reason why.

Come on inside.

He was at the office today,

and he didn't act as if he'd stayed out all night.

Really...

I'd been meaning to talk to you, but I didn't want you to worry.

I had no idea such a thing was going on!

Maybe we won't be able to get through this.

You came to my parents' house to get me to come home.

I appreciated your efforts,

and that's why I decided to come back.

I was going to persevere for the sake of my children...

But...

I'll talk to Hitoshi, so please go home now.

You can't leave the kids home alone.

I'll walk you home.

No, let me.

I know it's hard on you,

but if you look so depressed, the kids will suffer, too.

My husband and I split up and lived apart for several years,

but I never cried in front of my children,

or said things about their father.

I know it isn't what you want to hear,

but it's your duty to do so as a mother.

I know I'm being unreasonable,

but kids get hurt if they see their parents fighting.

They'll grow up without respect for their father,

or be disappointed in their mother.

Think of what it will do to the kids.

I'll have a good talk with Hitoshi,

so please bear with this for the sake of the kids.

Please, Michiko.

I'll go home.

Make sure she gets home safely.

No. I'll go home on my own.

It's all right. I drove over here.

I'm sorry to bother you. Let me think it over.

Be careful.

Marriage seems to be a very difficult thing...

But why is Hitoshi doing this?

Where is he staying anyway?

You'd better get to bed. We have to get up early.

Never mind that sweater.

He's fast asleep. Let's take him upstairs.

Yes.

I guess I'll have to part with Kei soon...

Hitoshi?

Sorry to scare you.

May I sleep over tonight? I have a key for this house,

but I can't even get into my own house!

Don't you have a key for your own house?

Michiko has set the bolt from the inside.

Ask her to let you in. Just go on home.

No, thanks. I don't need the lecture.

I work hard all day.

I don't need to put up with more grief at home!

Then stop doing things that make Michiko angry!

I hear you have a woman.

You're betraying Michiko and your children!

Don't you realize what it means to be a father?

I give Michiko and the kids everything they need!

Have you seen Michiko's car?

It's much more expensive than mine,

and who do you think bought it for her?

What's she got to be complaining about?

Hitoshi.

All she does is nag.

How long will she keep on bringing Yuri up?

She's always saying that I've betrayed her,

and that I only married her for her money!

I'm sick of it...

So I need to be with a nice woman.

He doesn't need a drink!

Hitoshi is having a hard time.

Thanks, Hatsuko. You're so sweet.

And Yuri was just as nice.

Hitoshi.

I know it's too late,

but Michiko can't seem to break off ties with her family.

You've brought it all upon yourself.

You insisted on marrying her.

I know, and that's why I'm not divorcing her.

Besides, I'm a father.

If you know that,

why are you out trying to wreck your family?

I take care of my family.

I buy the kids anything they want,

and I let Michiko spend all she wants.

Don't I have a right to some fun, too?

Do you realize how Michiko is suffering?

And the kids are watching you both suffer!

Please stay out of it. This is my own family problem.

And I'm the one who made Tanokura Super prosper!

I don't need to listen to you.

No, don't. He's drunk.

I want my fourth store to open soon.

The bank is dying to lend us money!

We can't lose this chance.

We'll have the biggest chain of stores in the region.

When I'm with you and Hatsuko, I feel relaxed.

And I feel badly about Yuri. If I'd married her,

I would have had a much better family life.

Yuri wouldn't have had to die so soon either.

She was so nice...

A really nice girl...

He's such a fool...

He's spent all his time earning money.

Now he is realizing what he's lost in return.

Other women can't offer him permanent solace.

He's very sad inside.

Why else would he come home to us?

But one can't go back in time. He'll just keep forging ahead.

He won't listen to me.

And he'll get hurt and come to realize...

Welcome. Look who's here.

Your father, Kei.

Hello, Kei.

What's wrong, Kei? It's your father.

Maybe he's forgotten.

You're finally home. I missed you so much!

Your whiskers hurt!

You have such a nice sweater on.

Hatsuko made it for him. She stayed up all night.

Thanks, but I think I can take him back now.

If that's what you want.

I can't have him at your house forever,

or he's bound to forget all about me.

Good morning.

Thank you for taking such good care of Nozomi.

We're busy, so we can't do half as much as we'd like.

Congratulations.

Thanks to you and the Master, he's come a long way.

Kei. It must be nice to see your father again.

But we're concerned that he won't be able to work

with Kei to take care of.

I'll manage somehow.

Kei will suffer for it!

A home needs a woman to take care of things.

- Right? - Yes.

Nozomi is still young.

He shouldn't have to stay single forever.

I'm hoping he remarries.

See! Go meet this woman I told you about.

She's never married, but she's very nice.

And she'll take good care of Kei.

She loves kids.

I think it's a wonderful opportunity for him.

Maybe you should meet her, too.

Episode 277

The dedication ceremony for Nozomi's studio was successfully completed.

And after everyone was gone, there still remained one guest.

It was Kota.

Hello.

Please pardon me.

What a surprise to have you come!

I hadn't expected you to come when I sent you the invitation.

I hope we didn't cause you any inconvenience.

And thank you for your very generous gift.

I'd been wanting to see your workplace.

Okayo must be very happy, too.

I wish she could have seen this, too.

After Oshin took you into her home in Ise,

I had a chance to visit your mother's grave.

That's where I first met you, Nozomi.

We brought special foods from home.

Sekihan and nimono made by Oshin?

It's nothing new.

It brings back memories...

You used to run a restaurant in Sakata.

I remember going there to eat your nimono.

Okayo helped me out a lot.

I had a very difficult time raising Yuu by myself,

but maybe it was a crowning experience for both Okayo and me.

You have known each other that long?

We were all young then.

One had to work so hard to earn just one yen!

Now you run three large supermarkets.

You've done well for yourself, Oshin.

I owe it all to the help you gave.

In looking back, I have many regrets.

Please enjoy the food.

That pot over there...

It's a wonderful piece.

Would you consider selling it to me?

I'm sorry... I can't.

I made it to keep Yuri's ashes.

Nozomi...

I plan also to transfer my mother's

and my grandparents' ashes from Ise to Sakata.

I'll mix their ashes with Yuri's.

After all, Yuri died a member of the Yashiro family.

That's why I want to keep this urn.

That would be good.

I wasn't able to do much for her. It's the least I can do.

You loved her, didn't you?

Your wife was a very lucky person.

Thank you for your hospitality.

I enjoyed talking to Nozomi about his mother.

Please continue helping Nozomi from now on.

Call me anytime if you need anything.

I look forward to seeing your future work.

Thank you very much.

Thank you.

Be careful.

We'll be going, too.

Please take good care of Kei.

Kei.

Bye.

You'll be staying here with your father now.

I'm going home!

This is your home.

Home is where you are!

Come. Let's take a bath together.

I'm going to take a bath with Hatsuko.

Do as I say, or I'll be angry!

You're going to be staying here with your father.

No! I want to go home with you, Hatsuko!

Kei!

I want to go home with you, Grandma!

Let's take him with us today.

But it will get harder as time goes on.

We'll set it straight soon.

I'm sorry, Nozomi.

Hatsuko...

He finally fell asleep.

I guess all the excitement kept him up.

You must be exhausted. Better go to bed.

I suppose I shouldn't have gotten so close to Kei.

I feel badly for Nozomi. He seemed hurt.

Please take him back to Nozomi as soon as possible.

Even if he cries, it'll only be temporary.

He will get used to life with his father.

I'm sure Nozomi will start looking for a new wife

after raising Kei alone while working,

so Kei will have a new mother.

Master's wife said she has someone in mind.

If this woman like kids,

and can understand the nature of Nozomi's work,

it would be perfect.

What do you think?

I guess you're right.

We can't just let things go on as is.

I'm sure Nozomi will start re- thinking things after the New Year.

I'll talk to him about it.

The year-end sale for Tanokura Super was going briskly.

Tei and Hatsuko helped by manning the busy cash registers, too.

But Michiko didn't come to help.

Thank you all!

- Good work! - Good work!

It's been a while since I worked,

but it sure felt good when we're that busy.

You'd better go home. Your kids are waiting.

Yes.

Happy New Year!

I plan to sleep in, so I won't be visiting for New Year's.

- Get a good rest. - I will.

Michiko didn't come to help at all!

My brother sure is soft on her...

It's all right. Michiko doesn't like this kind of work,

so it's better that she didn't come.

- But... - It's none of your business!

Tatsunori is dying to go home, too.

This is New Year's food for all of you.

Thanks.

Take some back for Michiko.

- Let's go. - Yes.

I'll greet you all properly again later.

What about you, Hitoshi?

I will stay and drink a little more.

Okay.

It's a good chance for you to be a good son!

Good night!

- Take care. - Good night.

Isn't Michiko home?

She took the kids skiing.

You've been by yourself all this time?

Why didn't you tell me?

I like it better this way. I just go home to sleep.

But, Hitoshi...

You two aren't getting along again?

Nozomi should be coming for the New Year.

He and I can drink together again.

Hitoshi.

I have my business to keep me going.

That's all a man needs!

What had caused this?

Oshin felt saddened by such a development.

And there was another problem for Oshin to consider...

It was about Nozomi and Kei's future.

I think they should be back soon.

They took Kei out for a drive.

Where's Hatsuko?

She's with them, too.

Hitoshi is good to Kei, but Kei prefers Hatsuko.

I can't let Hatsuko care for him forever.

I'll take him home with me.

Please don't try to stop me this time.

I can raise Kei by myself just fine.

I need to talk to you while Hatsuko is gone.

Have you ever considered marrying Hatsuko?

She'd be perfect for Kei, too.

She really loves Kei,

and she can be trusted to run your household like an expert.

Then you can concen- trate on your work.

How does she feel about it?

I wanted to get your reaction first.

I'm sure she wouldn't mind. I can tell!

She and I have been together for decades.

Let me talk to Hatsuko.

Nozomi...

I'm sorry to cause you concern.

Oshin couldn't tell what Nozomi was thinking,

but she felt it was the best possible route

for Nozomi, Hatsuko, and Kei to take.

Episode 278

Here they come!

Don't worry about me. I'll be fine by myself.

Just think about Hatsuko.

You know that she's had a very rough life over the years,

but if you two would marry I'd have no regrets in life.

Hatsuko can finally find happiness in life.

- We're home! - Welcome home.

I didn't know you were here. Kei, your father is here.

I'm still in mourning,

so I'll skip all the usual New Year's greetings,

but thanks for all your help last year.

Keep your chin up! You have a fine son,

and you have your work to live for.

A man's work is his life!

I'm sorry we stayed out so long.

I didn't know you'd be here this early.

Kei sure loves riding in a car.

I'm sure he had fun.

Kei, have some sushi with your father.

Go to your father.

Which one would you like? Egg?

Egg sushi.

All right. Here you are.

He can eat by himself now.

I guess I should've known.

A man's too busy working

to see how much his children have grown.

And that's how it's supposed to be.

Raising kids is a woman's job!

Yuri was wonderful, and it's no wonder you miss her,

but remember. She's not coming back.

Get yourself another wife.

Don't bring that up now!

He has to remarry, or he'll never get Kei back.

I won't let him go back

to a home where there's no mother to take care of him.

That won't be good for you or Kei.

We'll keep Kei here for as long as you remain single.

Nozomi's already considering it.

We were discussing it before you came back.

I see.

Then I don't have to say a word.

Our mother knows best! So do as she says.

You'll be staying over tonight, aren't you?

Let's drink.

- Hatsuko. - Yes, the sake is coming.

I'm going to drink my fill tonight!

New Year's is the only time I get to be free.

Drink with us, too.

We'll stay up and talk all night.

We'll be busy again as soon as the stores re-open.

Mother, we'll be starting up our fourth store soon.

This new store will have a high-class image.

Customers are seeking luxuries nowadays.

You'll see. Just watch.

We can sell your pottery in the store, too.

Make good pottery, and we'll sell them all.

Just leave it to me.

Look at you. Getting so drunk by yourself.

Hitoshi is a born businessman.

He has good instincts, and he takes chances.

He takes after you and Father.

But he doesn't seem himself somehow...

Ever since we were kids,

he'd act big and brave when things were going badly for him.

I hope everything is all right.

You go to bed, too.

Kei usually sleeps with me,

but I've made him a bed next to yours.

Don't forget to take him to the toilet in middle of the night.

This house is too small.

We have to sleep in this tiny room when we have guests.

Don't complain.

It was worse for us right after the war.

That's true. We all slept in the same room.

Besides, you might be getting married one of these days.

That's Hitoshi's snoring!

Nozomi, too!

They both drank so much.

They both feel happy to be with their mother.

I don't think Nozomi has talked to you yet...

Maybe he'll bring it up tomorrow...

He might ask you to marry him.

And I want you to accept.

Mother...

I'd really love it if you two got married.

Please be a good mother to Kei.

Nozomi mentioned that to you?

I can't believe it...

Nozomi wanted to ask you personally.

I didn't think you would refuse him,

but I thought I'd mention it.

Talk it over with him.

I woke up, and you weren't there!

Did you wet yourself?

I'll change you right away.

Your father didn't take you to the toilet?

A man can't handle these things.

Don't blame him. He doesn't drink often.

I'd feel safe if you were with them.

Men just can't be trusted to care for children...

Sorry, I drank too much.

Wetting the bed is bad enough,

but what if he'd gotten hurt or something.

I know it's a little too soon,

but for Kei's sake, you need to get married.

Yuri will understand. It's for Kei.

I told Hatsuko, so don't worry.

I'm sorry I've caused you more work...

He's only four. These things happen.

I guess I'm not much good as a father...

You get used to these things when you live together with him.

Thank you.

Don't worry about it.

I guess Mother has told you...

And I want to talk to you about it.

I like you very much.

We grew up together as siblings ever since you were nine.

You were always good to me.

And I've always looked to you for help.

But I always thought of you as my sister.

I'd never considered you as a possible spouse.

I still feel that way.

I asked you to help take care of Kei

because I trust you as my older sister.

Mother did mention it to me last night.

I was surprised.

I'd always thought of you as my little brother.

I guess Mother is getting older...

She wasn't always this way about things.

She knows what she's doing, and I understand.

I'm very grateful.

But I don't ever plan on remarrying.

Yuri was the only one for me.

People will laugh, but Yuri's my one and only.

I knew that.

I knew it when you took Yuri's body home to her new house.

I realized then how much you loved her.

And I knew you'd never be able to love again.

You made her that beautiful urn, too.

That made me realize it even more.

Even if you'd asked me...

Whether it be to be your wife or Kei's mother,

I would've refused.

You still love Yuri too much.

There's no way that I could marry you.

I'm sorry...

Don't be sorry. It's all right.

I love you just the way you are.

It was hard for me to have to tell you this.

I could've told Mother,

but I wanted to talk to you directly.

I wanted you to know how I really feel.

Thanks.

I'm glad we got to talk like this.

But I lack confidence. I can't raise Kei all by myself.

Oh, come on. It's not like you!

You're his father! Be more confident.

I overly protect Kei, and it's not good.

He needs a father to be firm with him.

Love him, and he'll love you back.

See. They're getting all puffy!

Here you go.

Sorry. I'll take over.

Where's Hitoshi?

He's still asleep. Who knows when he'll get up.

Let's all eat.

Nozomi is leaving.

I have to get back to work. We light the kiln in February.

There's so little time left.

Kei is going back with him.

Hatsuko...

Nozomi wants to keep him by his side,

and I think it's a good idea.

Nozomi...

Kei is Nozomi's son. Let him do as he pleases.

We can't interfere.

I'm very sorry.

Oshin knew what had happened.

And she felt sorry for Hatsuko,

who was trying her best to be as cheerful as possible.

Oshin had hoped to do well by Hatsuko.

Now she worried that she might have hurt her.

Oshin was full of regrets...

Episode 279

It was the New Year of 1968,

and Nozomi was taking Kei home with him to live together.

I'm against it!

Kei is very active. He needs to be watched all the time.

You need to concentrate on your work.

How are you going to watch Kei?

I'll think of something.

Stop being sentimental about it

and get married if you want to live with Kei.

Let your wife take care of your son.

Tend to your own problems first!

Kei is fast asleep. You can take him now.

You carry Kei, and I'll carry your things until the station.

I'll drive them to the station.

No, you're still hung over!

I'm completely sober now.

I'll bring the car out front.

Aren't you lucky?

Hitoshi can be very sweet sometimes.

He thinks of Nozomi as his natural brother.

Can you manage?

Don't hesitate to bring him back anytime.

Now that Kei is gone,

I can get back to working in the store,

and see my regular customers.

Somebody asked if I'd gotten married and moved away.

How old did he think I was?

- Hatsuko. - What is it?

Nozomi turned you down?

I should've known better...

I ended up hurting you. I'm sorry.

I was planning to turn him down myself.

I couldn't possibly marry him when he still loves Yuri that much.

I guess you're right.

I should have known how Nozomi felt,

but I thought it would be good for you both.

I thought he'd listen to me,

then I'd be happy knowing that you'd finally be happy, too.

I'm very happy right now.

But you don't want to be single forever.

With Nozomi, you could have a nice family together.

Kei is so attached to you, too.

You're concerned about my martial status?

First it was Yuu, then Mr. Kawamura,

and now you're 40 and still single.

You've been helping me all these years.

I'm so sorry.

That's why I want to do all I can for you.

Oh, stop it!

I came here to work,

and you raised me as your daughter.

I've never thought of myself as being unhappy.

I don't mind the hard work as long as I'm with you.

To tell you the truth...

I might still be in love with Yuu...

That's why I haven't gotten married.

I'm happy just being here with you.

Nozomi must feel the same way.

He'll stay single for as long as he still loves Yuri.

Memories are enough to keep one going.

Besides, Nozomi has Kei.

I'll remain as a big sister to Nozomi.

He's a good brother, and we can help each other.

You're right.

Nozomi can always be counted on, not like Hitoshi.

He'd help you even if you were down and out.

I feel confident about that.

Kei, you're being a good boy!

I'll take Kei out to play for a while.

It's okay.

He shouldn't have to be cooped up here all day long.

Kei is happy as long as I'm around him.

He understands that I have to work.

It's ready!

Mother.

Grandma!

I was wondering how you were doing.

You wrote and said things were fine,

but I had to see for myself.

What a surprise!

I didn't expect you to be helping your father.

In the past month,

I've developed confidence in my ability to raise Kei on my own.

I'm just glad that Kei is a boy.

Kids grow up watching their parents work.

He works hard at helping me.

I guess he realizes that I must work all day.

I won't say anything more. Raise him as you see fit.

Nozomi's new kiln was fired for the first time that year,

and his pieces earned a good reputation.

Nozomi had taken his first step toward becoming a noted pottery master.

During the same year,

the fourth and fifth Tanokura Stores opened one after the other

as the Tanokura Supermarkets.

They were experiencing a period of rapid growth.

But Oshin was worried about Hitoshi...

We already decided on the location for our sixth store!

Never mind if the other stores object to it.

The store we are trying to buy out

is talking about backing out of the deal.

Then give him more money!

He's selling his business because he needs money.

Why expand again now?

Watch and see how our fourth and fifth stores do first.

We had a late start, and we need to catch up.

I'm more concerned about your family life.

Michiko won't tell me anything at all,

and I know I shouldn't meddle in your affairs, but...

Never mind. I'm too old for love and romance!

You have guests.

My brother!

Is this Oshin?

It's me, Tora!

Tora.

How did you find me?

We'd been wanting to come to Ise,

so we joined up with a tour group and came.

Tora noticed the sign for a Tanokura Supermarket.

I knew you lived near Ise,

and the name was the same, so I asked.

They told me you were the president of the company!

We were so surprised.

They also said you own five stores in all!

You sure have come far...

I'm glad to see you both so well.

We're finally able to live like normal people now.

Our kids are all office workers, and we live in town, too.

What about our old house?

Nobody lives up in the mountains anymore.

I drive up to work in my fields now.

I grow apple and cherries now,

and Sadakichi's wife drives me to and from work.

You grow fruits?

With the land reforms, I'm a landowner now!

But since the kids won't farm,

I've had to sell off a few plots of land.

If our father, mother and Grandma heard all this,

they'd sure be surprised.

We were poor all of our lives. Now it's finally all paying off.

Father and Mother had nothing but hardships.

They died without ever having done anything.

Why don't you ever visit us in Yamagata?

When the apples and the cherries bloom, it's so pretty!

What a feast!

Is it still alive?

Oshin never wanted to go back to Yamagata,

but seeing her older brother and his wife

made her realize the years she herself had lived.

This reunion was a memorable one for Oshin.

In September of 1964,

Hitoshi finally got to open his sixth store.

Things looked good for Hitoshi,

but his family life was in deep trouble.

The ceremony is done.

Michiko...

Hitoshi...

What do you want? Talk to me at home later.

I'd kept it from you,

but Takeshi didn't come home last night.

Then the police called.

He's been arrested as a delinquent.

What shall we do?

Translation: UTB Channel

Thanks to Avallac'h and XrayMind at D-Addicts.