Just past noon, Hibiki Hada stepped off the Odakyū Line and onto the platform at Soshigaya-ōkura Station.

  He passed through the ticket gates and exited into the rotary at the front of the station.

  "Soshigaya-ōkura... I think this might be my first time getting off here."

  Looking around, he took in the surroundings.

  There weren't any big shopping complexes, and it lacked the hustle and bustle of central Tokyo. But the town had a calm, relaxed atmosphere that felt quietly welcoming.

  In front of the station stood a line of eateries and old-fashioned shops, and just a short walk beyond led into a quiet residential neighborhood.

  Glancing at the entrance to the shopping street, he noticed a sign that read "Ultraman Shopping Street."

  "Ultraman... Oh right, wasn't Tsuburaya Productions based nearby? I remember hearing that on TV ages ago. So this is the area where the heroes I loved as a kid were born."

  He found himself getting a little nostalgic, staring at the townscape with quiet sentimentality.

  But he couldn't get too comfortable—work mode had to resume.

  Checking the time on his phone: 12:10 p.m.

  He had an appointment at 12:30.

  "Alright, guess I better head out."

  He made his way to the taxi stand in front of the station.

  Several cabs were lined up, the drivers casually reading newspapers or listening to the radio through rolled-down windows. The air felt relaxed, unhurried.

  One of the drivers noticed Hada approaching and opened the door.

  "Good afternoon. Where to?"

  "To Tanuki Studio, please."

  "Certainly."

  The driver gave a small nod, switched on the meter, and pulled out smoothly from the station.

  The taxi moved past the station and began winding its way through the quiet residential streets.

  "To get to Tanuki Studio, we'll take Suidō Road," the driver said.

  "Sure, that works."

  They exited the narrow neighborhood streets, the road gradually widening as they entered Suidō Road. Low-rise buildings lined both sides, occasionally giving way to glimpses of peaceful homes nestled deeper within.

  "Do you go to Tanuki Studio often?" the driver asked, keeping his eyes on the road.

  "No, this is my first time, actually."

  "Ah, I see. Are you here for a shoot?"

  "Sort of—more like a promotional meeting for a radio show."

  "Ah, got it. Tanuki Studio's not just for TV shoots—they do a lot of radio recordings and events there too."

  Hada gave a brief nod. "I see," he replied, turning his gaze to the window.

  The scenery along Suidō Road was a mix of small shops and homes, with the occasional old-fashioned café or restaurant dotted in between.

  "This neighborhood feels really calm," he said.

  "Yeah. Soshigaya-ōkura and the neighboring Seijō area are pretty popular with folks in the film and broadcast business."

  The driver's tone was gentle, and his driving smooth and steady. Before long, the large compound of Tanuki Studio came into view.

  "We've arrived."

  Hada paid the fare and stepped out.

  Before him stretched a sprawling studio complex.

  "Alright then..."

  Taking a deep breath, Hada started walking toward the entrance.

  At the front gate stood a sturdy security post and a uniformed guard, attentively watching vehicles and pedestrians as they entered and exited.

  Hada approached the gate and called out to the guard.

  "Excuse me—I'm here for a meeting with someone named Kayama."

  The guard nodded and glanced down, pretending to check a list.

  "Kayama... Mr. Kayama, yes..."

  "Yes, we're scheduled to meet around 12:30."

  "Understood. The reception desk is in the main building straight ahead. Please check in there."

  The guard opened the gate, and Hada stepped into the studio grounds.

  The studio grounds were even larger than Hada had imagined.

  Multiple buildings made up the facility, including what looked like giant warehouses used for filming. Staff members were coming and going—some carrying equipment, others chatting as they walked, still others holding what appeared to be scripts in hand. Everyone moved with a quiet sense of urgency.

  "So this is where they shoot all kinds of shows and recordings, huh."

  Hada looked around briefly, then made his way toward the main building where reception was located.

  Inside, he found a spacious, high-ceilinged lobby.

  At the front was a reception counter, where a few staff members were assisting visitors.

  Hada stepped up and addressed one of the receptionists.

  "Excuse me, I have an appointment with someone named Kayama around 12:30."

  The receptionist offered a polite bow and began checking a device.

  "Mr. Kayama, of course. May I have your name, please?"

  "Hada."

  "Mr. Hada... Thank you. One moment, please."

  She relayed a message through her headset, then smiled.

  "We've contacted Mr. Kayama. Would you mind waiting here in the lobby?"

  "Thank you."

  Hada took a seat on one of the nearby sofas. The lobby was surprisingly quiet.

  He pulled out his phone and checked the time.

  "12:25..."

  Just a few minutes to go.

  That's when he heard a familiar voice call out—

  "Hada!"

  Looking up, he saw a man in a black jacket and beige pants walking over with a relaxed smile.

  It was Kayama.

  "Long time no see!"

  "Kayama—still looking as energetic as ever."

  "Yeah, pretty much. Thanks for coming all the way out here."

  Kayama gave him a friendly smile and patted his shoulder.

  "Beppu-san's here. I'll take you to him."

  Kayama's tone had a subtle weight to it, as if to say, This is a big moment.

  "Alright... here we go."

  Hada stood up and followed Kayama down the hallway.

  Kayama led Hada through the studio corridor toward the dressing rooms.

  Production staff passed by in both directions, giving the space a lively, slightly chaotic energy.

  This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

  "This is the room," Kayama said, opening a door.

  Inside, a man seated on a sofa looked up as they entered.

  Their eyes met—and Hada instinctively straightened his back.

  Tetsuya Beppu.

  The man Hada had seen and heard so many times on TV and radio was now sitting just a few feet away.

  But before the weight of that realization could fully settle in, Beppu stood up with a beaming smile.

  "Oh! You must be Hada-san! I'm Beppu—great to meet you!"

  His voice had a deep, warm tone, and he reached out with a cheerful, open gesture.

  "H-hello! I'm Hada, from UBS Radio!"

  Hada shook his hand, a little stiffly.

  "Ah, I'm so glad! Kayama told me about you—you've been listening to my radio show, right?"

  "Y-yes, I have...!"

  "That makes me really happy—honestly, I'm touched!"

  Beppu chuckled and sat back down on the sofa.

  Hada followed his lead, sitting across from him—but his heart was still racing.

  He never imagined he'd get to speak with someone he'd admired from afar like this.

  "I actually had a live broadcast earlier today—did you catch it?"

  "Of course!"

  "You did?! Ah, that makes my day!"

  Beppu grinned, his voice full of delight.

  "I've been doing this for years, but radio's still a joy."

  "Your show always sounds like you're genuinely having fun."

  "Oh, I am! It's TOKYO EVENING RADIO—we make it together with the listeners. Reading their messages, responding in real time—that's the best part, right?"

  "Yes, absolutely...! That immediate feedback from the audience is one of the things that makes radio so special."

  "Exactly! It's different from TV. When you're on camera, you're a bit more self-conscious. But radio—it's just you and the studio. Total freedom."

  Beppu's eyes sparkled with youthful enthusiasm.

  Maybe it was that energy, or his easygoing nature—but little by little, Hada felt his nerves easing.

  "But yeah," Beppu said, leaning forward a little, "I've got a taping for That's What's Weird About the Prefectures Show later today."

  "Oh wow, so it's happening right after this?"

  "Yup! I'm representing Shizuoka Prefecture, and I'm gonna bring the heat—literally and figuratively!"

  Beppu grinned mischievously.

  "I'm planning to show the world the true glory of black hanpen and motsu curry."

  "Black hanpen... and motsu curry?"

  "Exactly! People are starting to learn about kuro oden, but motsu curry is still pretty underground. Folks are always like, 'Wait—you're talking about offal curry?!' Totally blows their minds!"

  He gestured wildly, eyes gleaming with excitement.

  "And that show? All the other prefectures come out swinging with their wild food and customs. So I've got to go all in too. Before I know it, I'm yelling things like 'Shizuoka's got the sea and the mountains!' It's like a full-on PR battle."

  He paused for dramatic effect, then added with a wink:

  "That's why I try to stay cool-headed but passionate—just like Shohei Ohtani says: Keep your head cool and your heart hot."

  Hada laughed.

  "That actually sounds hilarious—and really entertaining!"

  "Thanks! Honestly, I have a blast with that kind of stuff."

  The conversation naturally flowed into more casual territory.

  Beppu, true to his on-air persona, was lively and engaging, always listening intently and responding with genuine curiosity.

  "So you work in radio too, right? What exactly do you do at UBS?"

  "I'm in sales, mostly. I pitch ads to clients, find sponsors, coordinate tie-ins with shows... pretty much the behind-the-scenes stuff."

  "Aha—so you're one of the reasons we get to talk freely on-air, huh?"

  "Something like that," Hada smiled.

  "So how's the radio biz these days? I imagine selling ad space isn't as easy as it used to be?"

  "It's true—between TV and digital platforms, there's more competition. But plenty of companies still see the unique value in radio. Especially local businesses. With the right program, you can reach exactly the audience they want."

  "Fascinating stuff..."

  Beppu nodded, clearly interested.

  "See, I love hearing about the behind-the-scenes. That kind of stuff always grabs me."

  Hada realized then—Beppu wasn't just a smooth talker. He was deeply curious, and genuinely loved what he did. Maybe that's what made his shows so magnetic. A true entertainer—someone who could make any topic enjoyable.

  "I really enjoyed our chat, Hada-kun," Beppu said, glancing at his watch.

  "I've got to head to the studio for the taping—time to give the nation a taste of Shizuoka's soul food!"

  "Thanks again. I'm really looking forward to the show."

  "That means a lot."

  Beppu smiled brightly, then took a more serious tone and raised a gentle fist.

  "There's a lot going on in life, but remember this: happiness is something you create for yourself.

  Have a great day! And don't forget your smile!"

  It was his signature sign-off—the same words he used to close every radio broadcast. Hearing it live, up close, Hada felt a chill of awe.

  But that awe quickly softened into a smile.

  "...Yes, sir."

  Beppu nodded and waved before disappearing toward the studio.

  Kayama stayed behind to speak with staff, so Hada quietly stepped out of the dressing room on his own.

  Outside Tanuki Studio, the early afternoon sun was bright and warm, the breeze just slightly cool.

  "Alright..."

  He took out his phone to check his location.

  "Not too familiar with this area, but... guess I'll look for somewhere to grab a bite."

  He had cleared his schedule for the rest of the day—no meetings, no obligations.

  Most importantly, he hadn't eaten lunch yet.

  With the nerves from his meeting finally settling, his stomach was now loudly demanding attention.

  "Let's see if I can find a place where I can eat... and maybe have a little drink too."

  He didn't want to settle for the first place he saw. He wanted to wander, explore, and stumble upon something special.

  And so, he began walking back in the direction of Soshigaya-ōkura Station.

  The sunlit streets had a relaxed, sleepy energy. People strolled past with shopping bags or small dogs in tow.

  As he passed through residential zones and back into areas with shops and eateries, signs for ramen, soba, and Indian curry appeared.

  "Hmm... nothing's really calling out to me."

  He checked his watch—it was already past 2 p.m.

  He had wandered more than expected and paused to take in his surroundings.

  Before him stood a Western-style diner with a yellow sign: Kitchen Yellow.

  The lunch rush seemed to be over, and the place looked quiet.

  He peeked through the glass—just a few solo diners at the counter and one pair seated at a table.

  "Looks nice and calm... I think I'll go with this."

  Hada opened the door and stepped inside.

  "Welcome!"

  A smiling server greeted him. Behind the counter, an older chef and a younger assistant were busy at work.

  "Feel free to sit wherever you like."

  Hada took a seat at the counter and let out a small exhale.

  The familiar aroma of classic Western-style Japanese food wrapped around him—melted butter, fried cutlets, sizzling onions.

  It smelled... perfect.

  The interior had a homey, wood-toned feel. The counter faced the open kitchen, and several tables sat beyond. Laminated handwritten menus decorated the walls.

  His body, still warm from walking, began to relax in the calm of the restaurant.

  "First things first... beer."

  He glanced down at the drink menu.

  Bottled Beer: Sapporo Black Label.

  "Nice. Black Label—can't go wrong."

  His lips curled into a smile.

  "Excuse me—can I get a bottle of beer to start with?"

  "Sure thing!"

  The staff quickly grabbed a chilled bottle from the fridge and handed him a frosty glass.

  He watched the golden liquid pour, foam rising slowly to the brim.

  He took a sip—

  Gulp.

  Bitterness and body in perfect balance. The chill of the beer traveled down into his core.

  "...Damn, that hits the spot."

  A daytime beer. Few pleasures compare.

  Now, for the main course.

  He opened the menu.

  Burgers. Chicken cutlets. Crab cream croquettes. Omurice...

  Everything looked good.

  "Hamburger steak... tempting. But crab croquette sounds good too. Chicken cutlet? Also solid..."

  He was paralyzed—not from indecision, but from too many right answers.

  He looked up at the wall—and saw a hand-written sign:

  Special Combo Set — Choose any 3 items!

  Underneath, a numbered list:

  Fried Shrimp

  Filet Cutlet

  Chicken Cutlet

  Skewered Katsu

  Cream Croquette

  Ginger Pork

  Fried White Fish

  Loin Cutlet

  "Oh, now we're talking."

  Picking three suddenly lifted the pressure.

  ...Only to replace it with new, delicious dilemmas.

  "Filet or loin...? Can't skip the shrimp... Should I go with ginger pork to balance it...?"

  After a moment of intense deliberation, he called out:

  "Excuse me!"

  "Yes?"

  "I'll have the Special Combo—shrimp, skewered katsu, and ginger pork."

  "Got it! Rice and miso soup come with it—how would you like your rice?"

  "Regular, please."

  "Coming right up!"

  As the order went in, the kitchen came alive.

  "One shrimp! One skewer! One ginger pork!"

  Oil hissed in the fryer, and the savory scent of grilling meat filled the air.

  "This is gonna be good."

  Hada took another sip of his beer, content to wait.

  The atmosphere inside the restaurant settled into a peaceful rhythm.

  The lunch rush had long passed, and only a few customers remained.

  In the open kitchen, the older chef moved with smooth, practiced gestures. Hada watched as a breaded shrimp was dipped into the fryer—his shrimp, he suspected.

  Beside it, the ginger pork hit the hot grill with a satisfying sizzle, sending waves of sweet-savory aroma drifting over the counter.

  Hada lifted his glass and drank the rest of his beer slowly. Only half remained.

  "Maybe I'll order another one once the food arrives..."

  But no need to rush. Better to savor it.

  He ran his finger along the wooden counter and waited.

  Moments later—

  "Thanks for waiting!"

  The server returned with a tray.

  Before Hada was the Special Combo Set: fried shrimp, skewered katsu, and ginger pork.

  Crispy golden batter, caramel-colored glaze, and neatly shredded cabbage, alongside rice and miso soup.

  This was the right call.

  He smiled.

  "Now, where to begin..."

  Shrimp? Katsu? Ginger pork?

  He picked up his chopsticks and reached for the shrimp.

  Lightly battered, perfectly golden. He dunked it in tartar sauce and took a bite.

  Crunch.

  The coating cracked, giving way to a springy, juicy shrimp.

  The mellow sweetness of the meat met the creamy tang of tartar—it was textbook.

  A sip of beer, a bite of cabbage.

  "Perfect combo."

  Then, the skewered katsu. Thick sauce clung to the crisp breading.

  He bit into it—crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with just the right balance of acidity and umami.

  "Also perfect."

  Another sip.

  Then, the ginger pork. A slice glistening with sweet-savory sauce.

  He took a bite—

  Juicy. Soft. Flavorful.

  The slight bite of ginger elevated the fatty pork, and it begged to be eaten with rice.

  Hada didn't hesitate. He scooped up rice and followed with another slice of pork.

  "These two are meant for each other."

  His bowl emptied quickly. Ginger pork and rice were a perpetual motion machine.

  He reached for the miso soup. Mild, comforting, gently salty.

  The perfect intermission.

  Then, a discovery—

  Beneath the beer listing on the menu: Sake – 500 yen.

  He flagged down the server.

  "Excuse me—what kind of sake do you have?"

  "We also have house white wine, if you'd like."

  "That sounds great. I'll have a glass of white."

  Moments later, a small glass of chilled wine arrived.

  He sipped.

  Bright, refreshing, with a soft fruity edge.

  The white wine complemented the fried shrimp perfectly—its crisp acidity cutting through the richness of the batter.

  Even the ginger pork worked with it, the sweet glaze mellowed by the wine's dry finish.

  "This is a different kind of harmony than beer. But just as good."

  Eventually, only the last sips of wine remained.

  He was full. Completely and blissfully full.

  Hada leaned back slightly, soaking it all in.

  He took one final sip of wine, smiled, and set the glass down.

  "Thank you—that was amazing," he told the server as he paid.

  "We're so glad you enjoyed it!"

  From behind the counter, the chef gave a small wave. "Come again anytime!"

  It's little things like that that bring people back, Hada thought.

  Outside, the afternoon sun still shone gently, a cool breeze brushing his face.

  It was almost 3 p.m.

  "Now what..."

  He didn't feel like rushing home. The city still had more to offer.

  He started walking again, letting the warmth of the meal carry him forward.

  A good shop always shows up at just the right time.