Original subtitles

Brought to you by Gifted Ones www.giftedones.net

Please do not stream or make profit from these subtitles.

Episode 289

Almost a month had passed since Oshin left on a journey by herself.

She had left on the morning of the grand opening ceremony

for the 17th Tanokura Supermarket.

Oshin was towards the end of a journey

that had taken her to Yamagata, Tokyo, Saga, and Ise.

I had no idea the Tanokuras were in that much trouble...

Hitoshi must be having a hard time.

I'm sure he's already heard that a big supermarket chain

is out to run him out of the brand new store he just built.

We might return and find that we don't have a house anymore.

Grandma!

Let's just stay and relax here for another day.

Who knows what terrible scene will confront us when we get home.

You can't be so nonchalant about it!

You're terrible.

You turned your back on the family when they needed you the most!

Hitoshi always counted on you.

Hitoshi runs the Tanokura family now.

Let him do with it as he pleases. It's not my business.

You didn't want to be involved. That's why you left on this trip.

That's not fair!

I guess I can't blame you for thinking that.

I don't know how Hitoshi is dealing with the family's problems now,

but for my own reasons, I left to find a part of myself.

I wanted to reaffirm my past,

so that I can laugh at any future trouble in its face.

I worked hard since the age of six.

I wanted to own my own business,

and I've worked hard till this day,

so how could I stay

when everything I've worked for is about to go bankrupt?

Grandma...

But there are reasons for faltering,

and I wanted to take some time to think about them.

If I come to terms with that, I can face any adversity,

and if necessary, start all over.

I haven't had to worry about money in a very long time,

and I've had my share of luxuries.

I've forgotten what it's like to be poor.

But I'm glad I took this trip.

Things that took place so long ago,

they all came back to me as if it were yesterday.

When I think back to those days,

even if I were to go broke today, I wouldn't be scared.

As long as one has courage,

one can always crawl back up again!

Let's go home today.

I can't put off going home forever. To wait is to suffer longer...

I'm sure we'll be scolded... I'm getting worried.

That's why I told you to go home, but you insisted on coming with me!

I'm ready for my punishment.

I have no regrets.

I have my own reasons for thinking that this has been a wonderful trip.

We got to go to so many places, and we ate some good food, too!

I enjoyed it.

Was that all?

I should've sent you back sooner.

If the Tanokura house is gone, come live with us.

Never mind me.

You'd better be getting home to your father.

Who knows what Hitoshi and Michiko will say to you.

I'll be all right. I'm your bodyguard!

I'll stick with you to the end.

The Tanokura nameplate is still up there.

That's true. I guess they are still hanging in there.

I'm home.

Mother!

I'm sorry to have troubled you.

Is everyone all right?

We'll talk later.

I'm finally home!

Nothing has changed here at all.

You made it sound as if the Tanokuras

were going bankrupt any minute. I shouldn't have worried.

Michiko sure looked angry. She's really upset.

That's true. She probably won't make us any tea.

Is it true that Mother is back? Tatsunori just called me.

She sure has nerve. Coming home as if nothings wrong!

Michiko.

She was acting so carefree.

I won't forgive her this time!

Mother doesn't know yet. It's not her fault.

Let's just be glad that she's home safe.

Oh, sure!

She's no longer my mother-in-law.

She left without even a word to us!

And she didn't contact us for over a month.

What an insult!

If she's choosing to ignore us, why can't we ignore her, too?

Please speak to her!

I'm coming in.

Hitoshi...

She just got home with Kei.

I'll have a good talk with her.

It's not her fault that the Tanokura business is in trouble.

I know how you feel, but please cheer up.

You have no idea how I feel!

If you were with her,

why didn't you call us from time to time?

I kept him from doing so.

I told him that no news is good news.

I'm sure you didn't tell Michiko that you were leaving

because she's so difficult, but why didn't you tell us?

Michiko had nothing to do with my leaving.

- Then why did you leave?! - That's enough.

What do you mean?

You were the one most upset that she left!

He had to bear it all by himself while you were gone,

and Michiko was in a terrible mood.

My poor big brother!

Can you leave us? Mother and I have to talk.

Your job is done. You got me home safely.

You'd better get home.

I'll come see you again.

No. Hurry and get back to your classes in Tokyo!

I'm very sorry.

No. I felt safe knowing that you were with her.

Thanks.

Give my best to your father. Tell him I'm fine.

I've been waiting for you.

Mother...

Please help me.

Please go talk to Mr. Namiki for me.

Maybe if you go, he will relent.

I've already gone to see him, but to no avail.

You're my only hope.

Please go and see your old friend for me.

Mr. Namiki hasn't sold his plot to the chain yet?

I haven't checked closely,

but it seems the deed signing is being delayed.

We still have time.

Please use your influence for us.

Michiko has been going through some difficult times.

Especially about Akane.

What about Akane?

That fool! She fell for a worthless man.

Michiko had given them approval.

As soon as he found out that our family business was in trouble,

he asked to break off the engagement.

He was only after our money!

I'm glad we caught onto him early on.

It came as a big shock to both Akane and Michiko.

The family almost came apart.

If that large chain puts up a new supermarket near ours,

we might be forced out of business.

Please ask Mr. Namiki for old times' sake

to prevent it from happening.

I know you're tired, but I'll drive you there.

Hello.

I'm home!

I hear Grandma is fine. Tatsunori just called me.

So you're home!

Hatsuko!

Tatsunori called me too,

but I didn't want to go over there and deal with Michiko,

so I wanted to talk to you first.

I'm sorry for causing you to worry.

I wasn't worried,

but your father had a hard time with Hitoshi

because you didn't call to tell us where you both were!

I don't care what they tell me.

But I'm sure it's harder on Mother.

Everybody is dealing with their own problems.

Mother had no idea,

so I'm sure she was enjoying herself on her trip.

I can't share this with Hitoshi,

but Grandma knew everything that was going on.

That's why she left.

You mean Mother knew that the business was in danger?

Yes. She was all prepared for it to go bankrupt.

I can't believe it... What's Mother thinking?

That's just like her!

This is no joke. The family was turned upside down!

But I don't think things have gone as fast as Hitoshi predicted.

Mr. Namiki isn't signing.

That day, Oshin visited Kota again. She had come home thinking

that everything would've been settled by then,

but the fact that Namiki hadn't signed the deed puzzled her.

Episode 290

Are you saying that just by going over there,

Mother can stop Mr. Namiki from signing the deed over to the big chain?

I don't know what will happen.

But give Mother credit. She's dead tired,

but agreed to take on this unsavory task for us.

She's seeing Mr. Namiki now.

It's only natural for her to do that

as the vice president of our company, isn't it?

But I don't think she can make Mr. Namiki change his mind.

The Tanokura business is doomed now.

There's no use trying to fight it.

Don't think ahead of yourself like that!

Our sales have been increasing since the day we opened.

And even if a big supermarket chain opens up a store near ours,

it'll take at least a year to drive us under.

And in the meantime, as long as we work hard

at winning the people's trust, we needn't worry!

Tatsunori...

You always take things so casually.

If a big chain supermarket comes to compete with us,

the Tanokura business doesn't stand a chance!

People are already giving up on us.

Our suppliers and the banks. They're cold to us now!

You're just imagining it. Nothing has changed.

Then why did that man back down on his promise of marrying Akane?

It's because he saw no future for our family business.

And you still think the Tanokura business is in good shape?

That's enough!

Tatsunori and I are doing our best.

All you do is whine and complain.

What have you ever done for the Tanokura family?

I've had it with you. All you do is nag!

Yes. Your mother is just great!

She goes off on a leisurely trip with Kei

while the rest of us grapple with problems!

I'm so sick of this...

I wish I could run away! Everyday, it's something else!

If only that incident with Akane didn't take place,

then I could handle these things better...

Mother didn't know anything when she left on her trip,

and when she came home and found out,

she rushed over to see Mr. Namiki.

Mother is doing her best, too.

I'm sure she'll be able to settle this matter for us.

Her career is more varied than ours.

And most of all, she has the wisdom of age.

Mother is all you ever talk about!

Two grown men,

and you can't do anything without your mother?

It's pathetic!

That's why your Mother is forever acting big!

What?!

Don't!

She's just tired.

There are some things she shouldn't say.

Why didn't you go to see Mr. Namiki yourself?!

I don't need you telling me what to do.

No matter how powerful Mother is, it won't do any good this time.

The Namikis hate us! They'll never give in to us.

If Mother succeeds,

I'll walk around town upside down on my hands.

Good. Remember those words!

I'll have you walking on your hands through town.

I'll make you!

Hitoshi.

Michiko!

Where were you for a whole month?

I got tired of waiting...

I went everywhere. It was a very nice trip.

You sure are a big problem.

There was something I needed to discuss with you right away.

I figured you'd come by after you returned.

What is it?

Among the parcels of land up for sale...

...there are portions under my name.

My son pointed it out.

And I haven't been able to bring myself

to place my signature seal on the deed papers.

As long as I don't sign, the Tanokuras will survive.

And you won't have to suffer.

I see.

That's why there hasn't been any further developments.

I think I know how you feel about it.

But I can't bear to see the Tanokuras in dire straits now.

You worked hard to build this business.

And I know how hard you've been working.

I can't bring harm upon you.

Kota.

Thinking back on our long relationship,

I shouldn't do anything to hurt you.

Thank you for being concerned for us.

It's not so much the Tanokura family.

I'm only thinking of you.

There's no need for you to be so considerate.

My feelings haven't changed at all.

I'm ready to face up to our store's demise.

That's why I went on that trip.

Please sell that land, and don't worry about me.

No...

The reason why I'm here today

is because my son asked me to come and try to persuade you.

I don't blame him. He's desperate now.

But I don't plan to try to persuade you.

I'm willing to help you. That's why I waited.

I wanted to talk to you again

to see how you really feel about all this.

Then let me formally decline your offer of help.

Oshin...

I went to Yamagata and Sakata.

I went to Tokyo and Saga, too.

Things I'd forgotten about are all back in my mind now.

Some bad memories, too.

But thinking back on them, I'm nostalgic.

Thanks to my trip,

I'll never be afraid of any adversity.

I've already lived through a lot of misery.

There's no reason why I can't do it again.

I have renewed confidence in myself to be able to crawl out of any hole.

I'll be all right.

Oshin...

The Tanokuras have grown beyond its size and scope.

It's time Hitoshi and my grand- children learn to live life realistically.

It's my job to make them see.

It's my last job here on earth.

If we go bankrupt,

it just means that Hitoshi lacked the will and power.

You're very harsh... As usual.

Once I faced up to things, I felt better.

I'm impressed with Grandma all over again.

By the time I was old enough to realize,

she was already over 60, and the store was doing well.

I remember her as being a well-to-do old lady.

I had no idea she suffered so much in life.

I came to the Tanokuras when I was nine,

so I know everything since that time.

But I know nothing of things before that.

When I first came,

Mother told me I reminded her of her own youth,

and she was very good to me.

I remember thinking that Mother must've had to work as a child, too.

But she never told me anything else about it.

The Meiji period was a terrible time.

And it wasn't that long ago. Just 80 years ago.

I was shocked to learn that Japan went through such hard times.

I couldn't believe it.

Then it was a good trip for you.

I had no idea Mr. Namiki was Mother's first love.

Don't tell Grandma I told you.

Of course not.

But I feel better.

He would never do anything to hurt Mother.

I sure hope so.

It will be all right. Kota still loves her.

Grandma's probably the love of his life.

Love can be like that...

I'll be going now.

Go back to Tokyo and get back to school!

Take a bath and get some rest.

I'm sorry I caused you a lot of trouble.

- Father... - Yes?

I'll re-establish the Kaga-ya business someday.

I've made up my mind.

I've grown to love Kaga-ya's old madam, and Miss Okayo.

Their blood flows in my veins. I think that's great!

And I'll do everything you weren't able to do.

I can do it!

That's good.

Mother!

Thank you for going!

How did it go?

They hadn't signed yet, have they?

What did Mr. Namiki say?

I asked him like you wanted me to.

What was his answer?

There's no immediate answer,

but I'm sure you'll hear something soon enough.

I've done my job. Now let me rest.

Leave her alone.

She's done her best. That's all we can ask.

I'm sure things will go well for us.

Don't worry.

Oshin already knew, and they would all find out tomorrow.

She knew what was in store for them all...

Episode 291

Did you call Mother?

She'll join us if she's hungry.

That's no way to talk. Go get her!

I don't think we need to worry about her.

She did leave without telling us, but after she got back,

she's helped us out a lot by going to see Mr. Namiki.

So don't be upset.

Who knows what she told Mr. Namiki?

We haven't had any results from that meeting.

Fumi! Fumi!

Fumi is out on an errand.

Hitoshi.

Let me say one thing.

I'm not your mother's maid. She can't order me around.

I've been good to her

because I considered her important to the Tanokura family.

But if she doesn't care about the family,

she can just go on doing things as she pleases!

Mother...

You can never know how I feel!

She left without a word to any of us.

And we all worried so much.

People thought I had driven her out!

And while she was gone,

our family went through its most trying times.

You and I were at the end of our wits!

She and Kei acted as if nothing happened.

I can't just be glad that she got back safely.

She doesn't even think about how I feel!

Why did I even make the effort?

Excuse me!

I have important news.

Namiki signed to sell the land yesterday.

Now we must face the consequences.

See!

Mother lacks the influence to help us.

I hope you finally realize that.

What did you tell Namiki anyway?!

What did you go over there for?

Namiki has betrayed you!

He's free to do with his land as he pleases.

He's not obligated to help me.

I thought you two had a special relationship?

Business is different.

But, Mother!

There's nothing I can do.

You don't care what happens to us?

It can't be helped...

If Namiki hadn't sold his land to the big supermarket chain,

we wouldn't have had to compete with them!

And if you'd saved us,

Michiko and our kids would have treated you with respect.

You could've helped us!

Don't you realize that our family is in a crisis?

We had to mortgage all of our stores and this house

to buy the property and build our 17th and largest store.

We owe a lot of money.

And we have to pay interest on the loan each and every month.

If the new store doesn't turn a profit,

we won't be able to repay the loans!

That's why I told you not to open this new store!

There was no reason to spend so much

to build a new store during such hard economic times.

On top of that, you repaid Mr. Namiki's kindness with malice.

That's why I had to make a success of it!

Our other 16 stores are all fairly small.

We needed a bigger store with bigger sales.

We need to expand our business base!

He's right.

We need a base from which to meet our customer demands!

Our 17th store can gross more than all our other stores put together.

And so far, the store has been doing very well.

We didn't miscalculate.

That new store was to be our savior!

It was your son's dream...

- And now this! - That's enough!

It's too late... We've lost this gamble.

That's pathetic! Two grown men, too.

Why can't you compete with the big chain store face to face?

- Don't be so weak! - You don't understand.

There's no way we can compete with them and win.

Then start over!

I've had many businesses collapse beneath me.

But each time, I was able to start anew.

And each time, I became stronger with renewed confidence, too.

You're only 50 or so. I had to start all over at age 50!

So stop complaining!

It's no longer like the old days.

Once you stumble, you can't get up again.

Our family might just come apart, too.

If your wife and children can't persevere, then send them away!

I'm sure they'll leave on their own.

Mother!

It's nice to start all over with nothing.

Try getting a taste of poverty, and see.

You'll learn to appreciate people's kindness,

and find renewed strength!

That would be good.

You can't mean that... You've grown too old.

No wonder Michiko is upset with you.

We can't pull back now. We'll go as far as we can.

Maybe you should go stay with Hatsuko or Tei?

I'm sure Nozomi will be happy to take you in.

You won't be happy here if you and Michiko can't get along.

It doesn't bother me.

I'm tired of being caught in the middle.

Think of how Michiko feels, too. You left here without a word.

You caused her a lot of grief.

She had to suffer through our store's crisis,

and that problem we had with Akane.

She can't possibly be nice to you anymore.

I can't protect you from her forever.

This is my home. I don't need people caring for me.

You've had your breakfast already, haven't you?

I'll go have mine.

Akane...

How are you feeling?

Getting better?

I sent a letter of resignation to your workplace.

You never want to see that boy again, do you?

You should be out having fun... And you must eat!

Is our new store going under?

I'm sick of your father...

Even at his age, he still needs his mother.

Your grandmother is no longer young,

but he still doesn't seem to realize that.

I'm sick of it all!

If the Tanokura store folds, why don't you,

your sister and I live together on our own?

I want to leave your father.

- Hello. - Come in.

What are you doing? Let Fumi do the ironing.

I like doing things for myself.

- Let me. - Never mind.

- Mother. - Yes?

Come home with me. I came to get you.

I'm all right. Although this home is mortgaged,

I don't think we'll be forced out of it.

Yes, but who knows what will happen...

The new chain store is going ahead with its building plans,

and once it opens, Tanokura will surely be hard-pressed.

Hitoshi came to tell me the business is finished.

Maybe he's joking,

but he did come to ask me to take you in.

He says Michiko refuses to speak to you,

or do anything for you. Hitoshi feels badly for you.

Once business goes sour, people do, too.

Nobody wants to care for a worthless old lady.

And I don't expect any help either.

You don't have to live here like that!

I won't stand by and watch you suffer.

I'm not in need of anything.

I can cook for myself, and wash and clean, too.

You don't have to!

My late husband and Yuu are here, too.

I'm not lonely.

Mother!

I don't want to be a burden on anyone.

I feel better that Michiko is acting cold towards me.

I'll stay here, and stand by Hitoshi

as he manages the Tanokura family business.

You take care of your own store. That's best.

It was the end of the year

when the large supermarket chain opened its own store

very close to the Tanokura's new 17th store.

Their advertising campaign was relentless,

and Oshin hoped for the best for her son.

Mother...

- I saw it. - You were there?

There's nobody shopping at our store.

I'm sure it's only while our competitor is having its big opening sale.

That's no guarantee!

They're a lot bigger than us. We can't match them.

Father...

I've given up all hope.

We don't have the strength now to compete.

Please forgive me.

My lack of foresight has caused me to run our business into the ground.

I'm very sorry.

Episode 292

It had been 30 years

since Oshin and Hitoshi opened the first Tanokura store.

Over the years, they built up the family business to include 16 stores,

and in 1983, they opened their 17th and largest store.

But they began losing customers

when a big supermarket chain opened a store near theirs.

Since they had spent all their money in opening the new store,

it was a heavy blow to the Tanokuras,

and New Year's in 1984 was no cause for them to celebrate.

We haven't had the usual New Year's customers.

They come in, but only to look and compare prices.

The big chain has us beat!

After all, we're just a country store.

They can buy wholesale a lot cheaper than we can.

The living standards have gone up, too.

And people want quality products for less.

The days of bargain stores are over.

If you know that...

We had no idea that a big chain would come to compete with us,

and that was our mistake.

And we also spent too much on our new store.

If things had gone well, we could've repaid all our loans,

but the way things are,

we can't even pay off the interest on the loans.

It can't be helped...

We'll just have to rely on our other stores to make us a profit.

We still have outstanding loans on two of our stores,

and there's a limit to how much each can earn.

Maybe you were right.

We shouldn't have built that 17th store.

But I gambled on it because we needed to expand and grow!

It's just bad luck for us that it didn't work out.

Of course, I'll do my best.

But who knows when we'll run out of funds.

There's a big payment due this month, too.

So please be prepared.

I understand. Let's sell off our 17th store.

We would've if we could.

Who would buy a store that's already in trouble?

I don't know if it'll be enough to cover our debts,

but we'll soon have to sell off both the store and this house.

We'll work it so that we don't lose all of our stores.

We won't be able to rely on banks for loans.

Things will be very tough for us.

That's true.

We were borrowing money to make money for ourselves.

Without creditors, we can't do business.

Nowadays, it takes money to make money.

I'm sorry.

I've ruined the business you spent 30 years in fostering.

I'm all right.

I did it all for your father and Yuu.

I realized your father's dreams.

And I was also able to let Hatsuko have her own business,

for Yuu's sake.

You and Tatsunori brought us great success, too.

I'm very satisfied. I can die without regrets.

I've been broke many times, and I've come back each time.

This is your first failure. You still have time.

Never mind apologizing to me,

just go out there and start over again!

But be sure to take good care of our older employees.

That's all I have to say now.

Are you two really getting a divorce?

Yes. There's no reason for us to stay together anymore.

Why not?

The Tanokura business is going bankrupt.

That's no reason to divorce.

Father needs you even more now that he's in trouble.

I married your father one day amount to something.

My father did, too. That's why he let me marry him.

He helped your father a lot when we opened our first supermarket.

Are we really bankrupt?

Your father has told me to prepare for the worst.

This house is mortgaged, too. We'll have to move out.

- Where will we go? - I don't know.

Maybe move into a cheap rental.

Grandma and your father,

they don't care what kind of house they live in.

I have no intention of living like that.

But...

I was able to put up with my mother-in-law

because I believed in your father.

Now your father has betrayed my trust in him.

Your grandmother, too. She acts so big!

As if she's responsible for all our successes.

She's not useful to us at all.

When we needed her help the most!

I've had enough!

She was never good to us either.

Poor children...

Akane is suffering so much now, too.

She doesn't even have a kind word for her.

I don't mind. Words can't comfort me.

I appreciated her leaving me alone.

I'm sure she cared...

No. She has no love for you.

To say nothing is love, too.

Listen to you!

But I'm glad you have pulled through.

I don't care anymore.

We won't be having anything to do with her from now on!

- Father. - Yeah...

You and Tatsunori sure have it rough.

And I'm surprised you agreed to the divorce.

It's better for you kids to be away from me and all my financial problems.

Will you be all right?

I'd rather not look at your mother's sad face everyday, too.

I won't have to listen to her complaining.

And I can still afford to give her alimony.

So you do love her!

It's so that you and Midori don't starve.

It's the last thing I can do for you...

Take good care of your mother. She needs you now.

Hello.

You're still on vacation?

I came to see Grandma before returning to Tokyo.

- Is your father well? - Yes.

All he does is work.

Stay and enjoy.

This may be your last visit to this house.

We will all be gone by your next school vacation.

Take care.

- Come on in. - Thanks.

Don't tell me this house is doomed.

The Tanokura family business is finished.

I'd heard the rumors,

but a business this size can't fail overnight.

Once you stumble, it's all downhill from there.

It can break up the family, too.

Can you take care of Grandma at your house?

My parents are getting a divorce.

- Divorce? - Yes.

They're talking of divorce?

You didn't know?

I don't get much of a chance to talk to Michiko or Akane.

That's not right!

Have a sweet.

I try my best not to be a burden,

but they've been cold to me since I failed

in my attempt to save the business.

Now we don't even eat together.

You've been all alone here?

Old people are just a big bother.

And I try not to meddle in the young people's affairs.

You live here, but you're all alone.

That's not right.

An old person has to get used to being alone.

But I hadn't heard about this upcoming divorce.

Hitoshi hasn't told me anything.

Akane just told me.

I had no idea things were that bad here.

Marriage can take strange turns...

Mother, what are you doing here so late?

I didn't know when you were coming home.

I plan on sleeping here at the office

while we take care of all the loose ends.

Did something happen?

Hitoshi...

Is it true that you and Michiko are getting a divorce?

Yes, it's what Michiko wants. I think it's a good idea, too.

You don't care if the family splits up?

Don't worry. I'll look after you.

I don't care about that.

I want to know how you really feel about it.

It's ideal for a family to be together,

but there are times when that's impossible.

Why is it impossible?

When you live in luxury,

the family might not matter that much.

But now is the time you need to be together.

Things one can't do by oneself,

the family come together and accomplish them.

Don't cast them off now!

Michiko is the one who wants the divorce.

You want me to beg her to stay?

Yes. If you really want her to stay.

Never mind your pride or saving face!

Mother...

I won't support your plans to divorce!

Episode 293

Don't you realize you're being treated badly by Michiko?

Ever since you failed in your effort to negotiate with Namiki,

Michiko has refused to do anything for you.

That's inexcusable!

Now you're covering for her. I don't get it.

Yes. I'm disappointed in Michiko, too.

Now that we're in a real fix, she wants a divorce.

That's just terrible!

From the beginning,

Michiko has had trouble adjusting to the Tanokura family.

And she's acted selfishly.

But she also had to deal with me and Hatsuko.

To Michiko, it was like a heavy stone hanging over her.

I had trouble with my mother-in-law,

so I can understand how she felt.

And when times were good,

she tried her best not to cause waves.

I'm grateful for that.

I can't blame her for wanting to escape

from mother-in-law and money problems now.

If you two were getting along better,

maybe there wouldn't have been a problem.

I'm sure she is disgusted with me now.

You can't just blame her.

If you really want her to stay,

why are you agreeing to a divorce so easily?

She wants to leave,

and I haven't the passion to try and make her stay.

See. That's why she's so sick of you!

So what? I'd rather have her go now

than having to hear her complain once we start living in poverty.

It's mostly your fault.

If you showed her a lot of love,

she'd follow your lead no matter what.

That's how women are.

A man who can't even control his wife

can't possibly operate a big business.

All you do is complain about your wife, too!

You also depend on me too much.

I've had enough!

Start being more dependent on Michiko from now on.

That's how a marriage works.

Who's there?

It's Hatsuko. Sorry to visit so late.

Nozomi, too!

Thank you for always being good to Kei.

Please don't mention it.

Mother is out right now, and Hitoshi is working.

No. We came to talk to you.

Please don't bother. We're not guests.

Kei told me what was going on here, and I was shocked.

Neither Mother nor Hitoshi mentioned anything to me.

Mother never told me either.

It's because it doesn't concern either of you.

We're part of the Tanokura family, too.

We can't just do nothing while the family is going bankrupt.

I'm grateful for your concern,

but there's really nothing we can do.

Hitoshi and I have already given up.

It's not true that you're getting a divorce, is it?

Hatsuko!

You know about that, too?

I've finally decided.

Michiko...

I don't want us living in misery anymore,

and I don't want us to end up hurting each other.

That's why.

Even when the business was going well,

our marriage was already strained.

All he thinks about is work.

You can't blame a man for being that way.

Hitoshi is in his prime.

And it's very hard for him when things go badly.

I'd rather divorce him than watch him like that.

I feel sorry for him.

It's when things are going badly that a man needs someone.

He has his mother, and she's all he needs.

Hitoshi has agreed to a divorce.

Why did he agree so readily? What is he thinking?

I'm sure he's sick of me.

I can't keep myself from complaining when things go badly.

He doesn't want a woman like that around.

It's all over now.

I have here the deed to my house and studio.

Please mortgage it for a loan, or sell it.

I'm sure it will help you in repaying

at least the interest on your bank loans.

In the meantime,

you can try to get the store back on its feet again.

And I also have the deed to my store here.

Mother bought it for me anyway. Use it any way you wish.

We got this far because of the Tanokura family,

so it's only natural that we help now.

Thank you, but you'll have to talk to Mother and Hitoshi about it.

No. We're doing this for you.

You've been looking after Mother for a long time.

It was our duty to look after her, but we left her in your care.

Because Mother insisted on staying here.

We realize that it's been rough on you.

What we have here isn't much, but it's the best we can do now.

We don't know all the details about the business either.

I'm sure what we're offering can't help much,

but we'd like you to reconsider divorcing Hitoshi.

For him, and for the sake of the Tanokura family.

If you stay with him,

maybe things will go better for him, too.

We'll do all we can to help.

If Mother is the problem, I'll have her come live with me.

Please stay with Hitoshi and help him.

I'm sorry to cause you both so much concern.

But it's too late.

I'm sure I wouldn't have decided to divorce him

if our business wasn't going so badly.

But a couple living together without love

compounds the effects of the business setback.

That's why I decided to divorce him.

Talk to Hitoshi once more.

You two got married because you loved each other!

People change over time.

He and I have nothing to talk about anymore.

He only talks to Mother about business,

I'm just the housekeeper!

We can't talk as husband and wife anymore.

Thank you both for all your kindness.

And please don't bring this matter up again.

Michiko is only concerned about herself!

I can't comment on their marriage,

but I'm sure Michiko has her reasons, too.

Hitoshi is at fault, too.

Michiko isn't the only one to blame.

She's selfish.

She wants everything done for her.

A man can't put up with that kind of nonsense!

I'm sure Grandma is the cause of it.

Hitoshi is overly dependent on her. Michiko doesn't like that.

Oh, come on!

It's not just another woman we're talking about here.

Mother is everything to Hitoshi,

and it's not just a mother-son complex we're talking about.

They lived through the war and its aftermath together.

They fought side by side!

If Michiko doesn't understand that, she has no right to be his wife.

But Michiko has her own point of view, too.

This is silly! I give up!

- Mother. - Yes?

You two are still up?

Grandma isn't home yet. Where is she?

She is probably staying at Tei's house.

I'm sure they have a lot to talk about.

Is Father staying at his office?

He says he won't come home for a while.

He's working hard...

He just doesn't want to see me.

Mother!

I wish I could leave this house soon.

Now that I have decided to divorce him,

it's hard for me to face your father and grandmother.

I've decided to stay with Father.

Me, too. I'll quit college and come back home.

Wait...

We talked it over and decided.

You don't know what kind of life your father will have from now on.

That's why we want to stay with him.

Am I supposed to live by myself?

You're a woman, so you can cook and do your own laundry,

but Father can't.

I'll go back to work, and send you money.

I'll get a job, too. My friends can help me.

Don't be silly!

You can't help your father.

Don't worry!

We can do a lot for him if we put our minds to it.

We'll work harder if our lives depend on it.

- It's not that easy! - We know that,

but we have no choice but to work and make a living for ourselves.

Who could that be?

Who's there?

It's me!

It's father.

- Grandma is with you, too? - Sorry we're late.

We didn't expect either of you back tonight.

I have nowhere else to go.

Welcome home.

I want to talk to you. Make us tea.

I'll get it!

You two go to bed. Your mother and I need to talk.

Michiko!

Please make us some tea.

Episode 294

Sit down.

What is there to talk about?

We haven't had a chance to talk.

You agreed to a divorce when I brought it up.

So what's left for us to talk about?

I agreed to a divorce

because I thought I didn't have the right to keep you

when my business was about to fail.

As a man, I thought it would be cowardly to try to hold you back.

And I also knew that you wanted to leave me.

I'm not one you can easily follow into poverty.

I know that.

I'm a pitiful failure at business.

There is nothing appealing about poverty.

So that's why I agreed to set you free.

Thank you.

I'm sure you'd be better off without me.

If we stay together, we would fight,

and I wouldn't be able to do a good job of caring for Mother.

It's hard on me, too...

It was time for us to face up to facts.

That's why I felt a sense of respon- sibility in honoring your decision.

But I'm not going to divorce you.

I want you to stay with me.

- I'm going to bed. - Michiko!

You can't change your mind now!

Please!

Please start over with me.

I'm not done for yet. I'll make good!

I want you with me. Then I know that I can do it.

Man is a very vain creature. He doesn't have the courage

to go against his wife's decision to leave him.

Especially when he's in dire straits.

He puts on a front,

and he thinks it's best if he would just let his wife go.

It's silly!

I married you because I loved you,

and I worked hard for you and the kids.

I did it for you, Takeshi, Midori and Akane.

Just because I've stumbled, that's no reason to leave me.

Our parents opposed our marriage, but we went ahead with it anyway.

I believe in your love for me.

That's what's been keeping me going.

Sure. We have had our share of troubles.

But we've managed to stay together

because we love one another.

Things got so busy that we hardly ever had a chance to talk,

but I still believed.

I believed that our hearts were one.

I guess I'm not sounding too masculine now.

I don't like talking like this either,

but I want you to know why I'm opposing your decision to leave me.

I don't think that you're not masculine...

And I never expected you to say these things to me.

I'd been wanting to hear you say them.

I wanted you to try to dissuade me from getting the divorce.

Michiko.

Women are foolish...

They lose confidence when they're not reassured.

A man has his work to fall back on,

but once a woman finishes raising her children,

she feels unwanted.

Oh, come on. That's no way to think!

Maybe not...

We had no money worries until now,

and one doesn't think of these things when there's money trouble.

Soon you won't have the leisure of feeling sorry for yourself.

I know you'll be facing new hardships,

but won't you help me face them?

Maybe I won't be much help to you.

I don't care.

Just be waiting for me when I get home.

Then I can give my all at work.

That's what's important to me.

- Good morning. - Good morning.

Your breakfast is ready.

I sent Fumi back home to the country.

Things will be much harder here now.

Don't mind me. I can still take care of myself.

I'm very sorry about neglecting you.

Oh, come on. Everyone gets upset from time to time.

We're only human.

But, Mother...

I'm not resentful that you were cold to me.

When you're angry at Hitoshi,

it's only natural that you resent his mother, too.

I wasn't much help

when faced with the financial problems we have now.

I know what you were going through.

Hearing you say that makes me feel even worse.

Never mind me. How about Hitoshi?

He agreed to a divorce?

He counts on you much more than me.

A man has pride, so he'd never tell you that.

Please try to understand.

So I guess you gave Hitoshi a lecture.

I thought it was strange...

That's why he suddenly talked to me last night.

I don't know what happened,

but I told him to forget his pride

and be honest with himself, or he'll forever regret it.

Thank you very much. I'll stay with Hitoshi.

Really?

Yes. We talked last night,

and I had a chance to hear how he really feels,

I hadn't heard it for years. Not since we were first married.

- Then you'll stay? - Yes.

Even if we become poor, I'll persevere as his wife,

and I'll do my best.

I'll do everything I can.

I won't cause you any more worries.

Then I'll say no more. Please take good care of my son.

He's not used to setbacks, so he is arrogant.

That's what worries me.

I'm sure he's had a chance to rethink things.

This was good medicine for him!

Life is long. Things are just getting started.

Yes, I know.

We'll have to leave this house,

but as long as you still have a couple of stores left,

you can make it.

I've failed in business many times until now,

but I've managed to come this far in life.

We'd better cut loose before things get worse.

10 employees asked to resign today.

They saw no future with us,

and others are feeling the same way.

How can we sell to our customers

when our employees are feeling dejected?

If we sell now, there won't be anything left.

At least we won't be in debt!

We'll close down at the end of the month?

- Is that what you want? - Yes.

I'll make sure you and Tatsunori get to keep your homes.

I'm so glad I caught you!

What is it?

I have the deeds here to my store and Nozomi's studio.

Please put them to good use. Michiko refused to accept them.

Thanks, but it's too late for that.

But...

I've done a lot of figuring, and I've studied the future, too.

But I've decided to close down at the end of the month.

Hitoshi...

You and Nozomi will have to take care of Mother.

My wife and I can face up to hard times,

but I don't want Mother to suffer in her old age.

We've been here for 30 years,

but it's not such a bad idea to start all over again from scratch.

I'm closing down what I built for myself.

I have no regrets.

Hatsuko didn't know all the financial details,

but she knew Hitoshi meant what he said.

She felt better that Hitoshi sounded so positive.

Episode 295

Welcome home.

Have you had dinner?

- I ate at work. - I see.

Then take your bath, and I'll get you a snack.

I need to talk to you all first. I want Mother to join us, too.

It didn't have to be tonight,

but since I made up my mind, I'd like you all to hear me out.

What's this all about?

I've decided to close down the Tanokura family business

at the end of the month.

Does it mean we are going bankrupt?

Yes.

We can't make payment on the notes due at the end of the month.

So it's finally come to that...

This house is already mortgaged, so we'll have to move out.

I've done my best to prolong the inevitable

and keep our stores open.

We can't compete with the big supermarket chain.

We haven't the resources. I realize that now.

If we get out now, we won't have any debts.

That's true.

It would make it easier for you to start over.

I can't apologize to you,

my brother Yuu and Mr. Kawamura...

Never mind that now. It's all over.

You did things the way you saw fit.

You don't have any regrets, do you?

Then that should be enough.

- Right, Michiko? - Yes.

Michiko's father helped us out a lot, too.

We feel badly for him too,

but I'm sure he would understand that we did our best.

Yes, of course.

I have all my belongings packed, so we can leave here anytime.

So don't worry.

I think I can get a job with the local advertising agency.

I can earn enough to feed us all even if Father loses his income.

Oh, come on! I'm not that bad off yet.

I don't need my children feeding me.

Don't be like that. You've done a lot for us.

Sending us to college and everything.

You should just sit back and take it easy now.

This will give me the incentive to work harder.

I will quit college and go to work, too.

I can't let my big sister outdo me!

I'm ready to help your father out

on any new ventures he has in mind.

So you girls won't have to feed us.

That's right. Just worry about yourselves.

I don't know what is in store for us,

but we'll be renting house for a while.

Mother will go and live with Nozomi or Hatsuko.

You can't do that to Mother!

It's for her own good.

Mother...

I'll go wherever you send me.

I guess I've finally become a burden.

I'm so sorry.

We'll work hard and come to get you as soon as we can.

Never mind about me.

You should all be grateful that regardless all that's happened,

you are still together as a family,

and you can help each other.

And that's very important.

Everyone is having a tough time. Tatsunori, Tei and the kids

have devoted their lives to the Tanokura store.

Now the family business is going under...

I've given up,

but I'm so grateful that Hitoshi managed to save our home.

Hitoshi cares for his little sister.

We all grew up together sharing our problems.

We'll do all we can to help, so cheer up.

I'll work, too,

and I want you to teach me how to knit, Hatsuko.

Sure. It'll be useful as a skill.

Not just for money- making, but as a hobby.

Knitting is good for one's old age, too.

I used to panic at the idea of being stuck in the house doing nothing,

but I don't think it's easy getting a job now.

I guess it takes an emergency

to get one motivated enough. I should be grateful.

I came to talk to you about taking Mother in...

I intend for her to move in with me.

Nozomi and I discussed it.

There are no other women at Nozomi's house.

Mother wouldn't be able to relax there.

I can always hire a housekeeper for her.

I thought we'd already decided?

You're busy with your store, too.

Mother would feel compelled to help.

I plan on having her help me at my store.

She's still in good shape.

She can deal with the customers.

She might be in good shape, but she's already 83.

I don't want her to have to work.

Do you want me to just put her up as a display?

She'd be so bored, she would go senile.

You have to put the elderly to work.

It will do her good to feel useful.

Hatsuko.

What's the matter, Tei?

Mother is a lucky woman...

She took care of us as if we were her very own,

but I haven't been able to do anything for her.

That's why I want to take care of her now.

Me, too.

You two lived together for along time.

I moved out early on to study my pottery.

I think Grandma should live with Hatsuko.

Why?

She can take care of her,

and there are customers she's familiar with at the shop.

That's right. We ran the store together for years.

I still get some of our old-time customers.

That way, Grandma won't be lonely.

She doesn't know anybody where we live.

That's true.

I feel badly for Nozomi, but Hatsuko's house is near mine,

so I'll be able to care for her, too.

I guess I can go back to Tokyo now.

I won't worry knowing she'll be with Hatsuko.

We'll take good care of her, and have her live a long life.

You'll be going back to Tokyo tomorrow?

We won't be seeing you until next vacation.

I can come back any time if I'm needed.

The shinkansen can bring me back in no time.

I guess I won't be here in this house

the next time you're back from Tokyo.

I wanted to take some plants from this yard,

but there's no yard where I'm moving to.

You can take the plants up to our house.

I'll talk to Father.

Then you can visit the plants anytime you want.

Who knows how much longer I'll be alive,

so there's no need to bother.

I want you to live a long life!

After I finish college, I'll become a merchant.

I'll own a business, and I'll restore the Kaga-ya name.

And I want you there to see it.

Kei...

I'm glad I got to travel with you.

The Kaga-ya blood flows in my veins.

I can take pride in that. I know my way now.

If you hadn't told me about Kaga-ya,

I would've become a boring office worker.

Your words have made me very happy.

Now that you've decided,

I can die anytime and face Miss Okayo in the next world.

I'll tell her all about you, with great pride!

Grandma...

I've come to realize lately

that although it's a burden on others when one grows old,

but it's also good to live long enough to see everything.

I'm so glad you will restore the Kaga-ya name.

Telephone.

Hello.

Yes, I understand.

Grandma. Telephone.

This way, please.

I'm sorry I called you out there.

No. I'd been meaning to visit you, but we've been very busy.

I've been very concerned about you.

I'm sorry to cause you concern.

I've heard some unsavory rumors, too.

My son has decided to close down the business at the end of the month.

His wife and children have resigned themselves to that fact.

That new store of ours was too much for us.

Hitoshi wasn't wrong in his decision to build.

If only I hadn't sold my property...

I feel very badly about it.

I'd asked you to sell.

I did it for you,

but I had no idea that things would get this bad for your family.

It's over and done with.

Oshin...

I have lived my 83 years to the fullest.

I have no regrets.

Hitoshi's future is all up to him now.

I'm sure he's learned many hard lessons this time.

And I think it's all right.

If he can't pull himself out of this one,

it just shows what he's really made of.

Please don't worry about us anymore.

Oshin was smiling,

but that only caused more pain within Kota's heart.

They had lived through a generation together.

They had loved one another,

but their lives had taken different paths.

Oshin was like a comrade in arms to Kota.

Like the wounds Kota already carried,

this new episode caused Kota to feel even more pain...

Episode 296

She left without a word.

I called, Tei and Hatsuko, and Nozomi, too.

She's not with any of them.

Yes. She did get a phone call just before she left.

She must be despondent after what's happened to our business.

And she's old, too.

If she's collapsed somewhere,

or was taken by ambulance, we'd know by now.

Don't call me with such problems. I'm busy.

Has something happened to Mother?

She left the house around 3 o'clock,

and she didn't tell anyone where she was going.

Michiko thinks she might kill herself.

That's silly. My mother isn't a weak woman.

I don't blame Michiko for worrying since we're in a crisis situation.

If something like this could kill her,

she'd be dead many times over by now.

You and Michiko don't know

how hard it was for us during and after the war.

My older brother died in the war, and my father committed suicide.

We had no money and no house.

Young people today can't imagine what it was like.

But my mother pulled us out of it.

She brought us back up from the bottom.

From those depths, Mother built up this business.

And maybe that's why she feels so hurt...

Don't you talk like that, too!

But I've been a bad son...

I watched her suffer through life,

that's why I wanted to make her dream come true.

Hitoshi...

She's just out walking around. She'll be back soon.

Welcome back.

I have 20 more requests for severance.

We haven't told our employees that we're going out of business.

What's going on?

Anybody can tell that we're in bad shape

just by looking at our daily receipts.

It's only natural for them to start looking for new jobs.

That's true.

There's no guarantee that the supermarket can continue operating.

This is bad...

We have to pay out severance when we can hardly afford it.

We'll have to lay everybody off eventually.

Make sure everyone gets severance pay

even if we have to take out a loan.

It's Mother's orders.

Ever since I first met you, I wanted you to find happiness.

But I caused you a lot of trouble

while I worked as a political reformer.

And it was me who caused your life to go astray.

I wanted to make it all up to you.

Now, I can't even help you.

I feel very badly.

I'm very happy to be invited here to this fine restaurant,

and hear you say those things.

You've consoled me many times.

You've encouraged me, too.

But I never expected to have to console you like this.

It's regrettable. It really is.

I'm glad that it happened.

When the business was going well,

the family members were all doing as they pleased.

They didn't show any understanding or compassion towards others.

But now that they all realize the family business is going under,

they have pulled closer together.

Even my spoiled grand- daughters are saying

they'll go to work to help the family out.

My son's wife has also opened up to me.

Adversity can bring people together.

To hurt people is to know pain.

I think it's been good medicine for Hitoshi.

He's used to getting his way with people.

And if he can come to realize his weaknesses,

this will have been a good lesson.

It's so like you to think that way...

You haven't changed at all from the old days.

Maybe the medicine has been a bitter one,

but without it,

the Tanokura people might never have gotten close to one another.

Times have changed...

It's no longer an easy matter to start over.

Even if the family has gotten closer,

what if they all have to live in the streets?

Okayo's grandson,

he's promised to bring back the Kaga-ya business.

Life can be too long,

but there are also happy moments, aren't there?

- Mother, is that you? - Yes, it's me.

I'm so glad you're home!

Where have you been?

Mother was so worried about you that she couldn't even eat!

You should've called.

We were just about to call the police!

I'm sorry. I didn't think anyone would miss me.

You're not young anymore.

What if you're out walking and collapse somewhere?

I'll be more careful from now on.

- The bath is ready. - Thank you.

This was the first time ever

that Michiko and the children had worried about Oshin.

It made her happy,

but the day she would have to leave them was drawing near.

At the end of January,

the Tanokura family was moving into a rental home they'd found.

Spring was not yet here.

They haven't gone bankrupt yet. What's the hurry in moving out?

I'm sure you want to stay here as long as possible.

Sooner or later, we'd have to move out.

And it's not good to rush when you move.

I don't feel comfortable here anymore.

You loved the garden here.

I have no yard, and the house is cramped.

Maybe you would be better off staying with Nozomi.

It doesn't matter where I am.

As long as I can keep the rain off my head, and keep myself fed.

Business failures today aren't half as bad as the old days.

The real poor couldn't even afford to eat daikon gruel.

When you come to my house, please do as you like.

I can afford to keep you in comfort.

I'm so sorry that I have to bother you again...

Oh, come on! I've always wanted to live with you.

But I couldn't deny Hitoshi's request.

You, too. You stayed on here

even after Michiko started giving you the cold shoulder.

Now you'll finally be coming to my house.

I'll take good care of you.

I don't plan on giving you any trouble,

but as you know, I'm very old.

Don't worry.

I'll be with you even if you become bedridden.

I owe my life as a normal human being to you!

I can never repay your kindness.

Nozomi feels the same way, too, so you can count on both of us.

We're ready to take Mother's things.

Yes, it's all ready.

Are you leaving here today, too?

No. We need an extra day to get all our things together.

Tonight, we'll have our last supper here.

I want the two of you to join us, of course.

But she's coming to my house from today.

Eat first, then you two can go.

It's not just a farewell to the house,

Mother is moving away from your family, too.

I don't want any sentimental affairs!

I'm leaving, but I'm not going abroad.

I can see anybody whenever I want.

That's true.

You can always go to Hitoshi's if you want to have dinner together.

Or they can all come over to my house.

Sorry I'm late.

I've told my people that you might be bringing some things for storage.

Thanks. Our new house is too small.

I built a new shed. We'll take good care of your things.

It's so nice to have siblings.

What a feast!

This is our last dinner here.

We'll talk about old times, and have some fun.

This dinner will mark the start of the new Tanokura family!

That's a lot of work. Shall I help?

You'd just be in the way.

Will you check the broth here?

Yes.

Here.

How is it?

You need a little bit more salt.

I should've had you teach me how to cook.

Namiki's owner is here.

I don't know what he wants, but he sure has some nerve!

What is it?

I need to talk to you.

I didn't know you would be moving today.

You're too impatient. You give up too quickly.

Oshin was dismayed at Kota's sudden arrival.

She had no idea what he had come to say.

Final Episode

Mr. Namiki has come here to talk to you about something.

What's there to talk about now?

I don't want to hear any excuses from him!

Hitoshi.

Then I will go in to talk to him for you.

I owe him a debt of gratitude. I'll explain to him how you feel.

Never mind!

I have something I want to say to him, too.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

There's an offer to buy out your 17th store.

That big supermarket chain is interested in making it their own.

What do you mean by buy out?

The big chain will take over your bank loan,

in other words, they'll buy you out.

They'll buy that store from us?

That 17th store of yours is what's causing you these financial problems.

Once you get rid of it, your debt problems are over.

Isn't that so?

I suggested the buy-out option,

but that store has been your life-long dream.

Can you stand to see it in enemy hands?

I can't believe they would want that store.

I'm sure they have their own management ideas,

otherwise they would never show any interest.

If you and Oshin are interested in selling,

I'll get the talks started.

I'll be glad to serve as a go-between.

Kota...

Thank you very much!

Once we rid ourselves of our debts from that store,

the Tanokuras can survive.

I've done my best trying to find a buyer for that store.

I wanted to sell it even at half of what we invested,

so that we could settle our loans,

and our other 16 stores could re-organize,

and keep our family business.

But nobody wanted to buy me out.

If what you say is true, I'd be forever grateful!

We're causing you more problems...

No. If I let the Tanokuras go out of business now,

I'd die with great regrets.

I can't let down Oshin who I've known for so many years.

I have a friend who's one of that big chain's officers.

His father and I were comrades

in the farm labor movement many years ago.

I have many old friends like that, so please let me handle this matter.

I should've come to you sooner,

then you wouldn't have had to move.

I'm sorry.

I had a large promissory note due in a few days,

and I had no way of paying it off.

Compared to that, moving is nothing.

Let's get started right away. You'll be very busy from now on.

Please take the lead on this matter.

Excuse me. I'm sorry it took so long.

Tatsunori needs you at the store right away.

Tell him to close down shop, and come home.

And stop moving our things out.

Just tell them to unload the truck!

What's going on here!

This is no time to be having a party!

Our creditors were hounding Takeshi and me.

That's why I wanted you there to help us.

What's the meaning of this?!

- Come and join us. - But, Hitoshi...!

I'm sorry.

Hitoshi insisted that we can wait for you to come here before he explained.

We no longer have to worry about banks or creditors.

Tanokura has been saved!

We have a buyer for our 17th store!

They'll take over our loan payments.

Of course, we'll lose some money on the deal.

They know how desperate we are,

but once we get rid of the loans and save our 16 stores,

we can find a way to repay the loans we have left.

We will work hard, with 16 stores and their assets.

Hiroshi and the kids will be coming over soon.

Takeshi doesn't know about this yet...

I'll call him.

Thank you for all your hard work.

I know it's not easy working for Hitoshi.

Thank you very much.

I owe you a lot. Without you,

I would've run the business into the ground a long time ago.

You did a good job.

I want to thank Nozomi and Hatsuko, too.

They both offered to sell their property in order to help us.

I'm grateful for having them as my siblings.

Never mind that.

The farewell dinner has turned into a celebration.

So let's cheer up!

Having fallen to the bottom has made me realize many things.

Mother, thank you. Michiko, too.

Nozomi, Hatsuko, Tei and Tatsunori.

Thank you, all of you. Thank you very much.

I'm no good compared to my brother, Yuu.

Even at this age,

I can't run the business without my mother.

I wonder what Yuu would be like had he lived.

The dead always seem better than the living.

I'm sure you can't stand being compared

to those who have passed on.

I don't care. I'm no good!

Are you okay?

I hurt Yuri, and I've hurt many people in operating my stores.

But I always believed that only the powerful ones survived.

I thought it was necessary for survival.

I knew the gods were punishing me for my former ways...

He's such a problem...

Kota had arranged for the 17th Tanokura store to be sold,

and by March, the deal was completed.

They still had their 16 other stores to operate,

so they could make a new start.

Watching Hitoshi and Nozomi makes me feel

as if I've lived an awfully long time.

To have lived so long means that once we die,

no one will remember issues such as farm labor movements,

and how the police suppressed us.

People can read about stories of human servitude

and the cruelties of war,

but there won't be any of us left to tell of the real pain.

You once told me you had no regrets.

Yes. I've lived every moment to the fullest.

If I'd been able to marry you, my life would've been so different.

I think it all turned out for the best.

We've lived apart,

and that's why we've been able to remain good friends.

Please come and visit me more often.

You're the only one I can share my memories with.

There's nobody else left...

Enjoy a walk together?

You two seem so happy. Please stay well, both of you.

Translation: UTB Channel

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