Jun. 3rd, 2013 03:52 am
Amachan: Week 10 Episode Guide
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earth_colorsWeek 10. "I'm being scouted?!"
"I really want to take you to Tokyo, too, but..."
Episode Summaries:
Ep. 55. Takuma does not answer Yui's question. Haruko says she's acting a bit weird. Yui: "I know!" But she says sorry and backs away. Just in time, the Ama-sans come in, all hyped up about their strike. Aki greets Yui but Yui does not greet back and hurriedly goes out. Aki and Haruko exchange a "What was that about?" look.
Takuma goes after Yui. He apologizes if he had given a wrong impression. He says the photos and videos he had taken of her were for his relatives who are big fans of Yui. Yui hands him her card. "The web address on this card is for my blog, though it hasn't been updated lately." Takuma: "Eh?" Yui: "Pass this to your relatives." Inside the shop, Aki tells everyone what Yui thinks of Takuma. "He's a scout?" But the women do not take it seriously. Misuzu: "Maybe he's gonna scout me?" They laugh. "What do you think, Aki? Has he said anything to you?" Aki: "Well, he only talked about my video on the internet. She is asked what she will do if she gets scouted. Haruko say that's not going to happen. Aki: "Besides, I've got an Ama Cafe to think about for now." Back at the Tourism Office, the guys contemplate on the Ama Cafe idea. They lament how troublesome the older Ama-sans are. If they give in to the Ama-sans, pretty soon they'll be asking endlessly for things: raising their wages, demanding transportation expenses, etc. They vent out their irritation by giving each one an 'old biddy' nickname. The top old biddy is Natsu-bappa, "who's healthy and stubborn, it's even more difficult (meaning, if she wasn't strong and healthy, she'd give in more)." Katsue is the no. 2, calling her "The Four-Eyed Accountant Old Biddy" who handles money matters. Yayoi is the "Noisy Old Biddy" who instigates things up by always saying "Nda! Nda! Nda!" or "Yeah, Yeah, Yeah!" (lmao). Misuzu is the "Pheromone Biddy," who will spread rumors and cause trouble. And Tamako is the "Shiro Biddy," whom they don't understand what she's angry about. Then they notice that Hiroshi was not saying anything bad about the Ama-sans. "Are you perhaps in good terms with them?" Hiroshi: "Well, they do treat me nicely." So they appoint Hiroshi to coordinate with the 'biddies' in handling the Ama Cafe. They tell the Ama-sans about it. Natsu: "Why him? You trying to run away from it, Daikichi?" Daikichi says of course not, that the KitaTetsu will back them up on this. Katsue: "What about the money?" Yoshida (whispering to the guys): "Tsk... Four-eyed Accountant Old Biddy..." Yayoi hears him and goes to pummel him. Aki tells them they want the Fishing Cooperative Office to be transformed into the Ama Cafe in order to save money. Hearing that, the men now think it is plausible and not just some pipe dream, after all. At the Amano home, Aki reads a postcard from Chubee who is in Cape Town, South Africa. His handwriting is all wobbly (since he's in a boat), giving Aki a hard time reading it. He wishes Haruko a happy birthday. Both Natsu and Aki had forgotten about it. Aki: "I'll give you a misanga." Haruko: "No thanks, I've got two of em." And she shows off the ones Daikichi and Ben had given her. Then Haruko gives Aki another postcard. It is from Taneichi! He wrote that he's working round the clock in building the runway. "You also work hard in becoming a fine Nambu Diver." She happily shows it to Yui the next day. "Have you gotten a post card, too?" Yui says no since he always emails her every night anyway. Aki's enthusiasm is doused, learning that Yui and Taneichi's long distance relationship is doing fine. But she has accepted it, nevertheless. Yui asks if Aki has told her mom about Takuma. But Aki says no, then she adds, "I wonder if he really IS a scout." Yui: "I thought you didn't believe it." Aki: "Yeah, but..." Meanwhile, Misuzu and Takuma are alone at the shop. She is flirting with him. Misuzu: "Taku-chan, do you have a car?" Takuma: "No but I have a license." Misuzu: "Maybe you and I go elope somewhere? Because we can use my car. It's a Shakotan* though." Takuma: "Well, I do like it here." Misuzu: "Then would you like to live with me? You can use my car. Though it's a Shakotan," dangling the car keys in front of him. Back to Aki and Yui... Yui asks Aki again what if the two of them are offered to debut as idols. Yui says she had already passed her contact details to Takuma. "You did say you had fun right?... I can't do it alone. I can't do it without you, Aki-chan!" Somewhere in her mind, Aki IS thinking about it but no... Her mom will not allow it. "I'm sorry. I'm different from you. I dive and sing because I wanted to. Since I am not a professional, I'm only doing this for myself." However... That night, Aki keeps thinking about her conversation with Yui, that she hardly touches her dinner. Haruko notices it, and tells her to hurry up and eat. Then, Rokuro and Katsue come bursting in looking for Natsu. She's not around so they tell Aki and Haruko some great news. "We came from a meeting with a banker a while ago, and discussed about the Ama Cafe. They're gonna lend us 20 million for it!" Inside Ben's amber mine, Takuma is alone digging for amber. He is startled to find Yui standing behind him. "Good evening," she says.
(*Shakotan = cars modified to have an ultra-low body and aggressive wheels, popular among Yankis in rural areas)
Ep. 56. Takuma: "If you're looking for Ben-san, he's at the bar." Yui cuts to the chase. "Are you a scout? Working for the industry?" Takuma denies it. Yui says she had read in a magazine that when a scout finds a target, he will rent a room near the target's house, get along well with her friends and family so he can negotiate amicably for a debut. Takuma denies it still, "Have no idea what you're saying." Yui: "I want to debut! I want to be an idol in Tokyo! I don't wanna end in this countryside. What should I do now?" Takuma: "It's up to you. I mean, you say you're prepared and serious... If I WERE a person from the industry, which I am not... But, let's just say if I were, ok?... I would like to know what is the difference between you and all those idol wannabes, the kinda cute but pitiful girls out there?" At the Amanos, Natsu is told of the good news. Apparently the banker who approved of the loan happens to be a fan of Aki and he was on board the parlor train during the 25th anniversary. "We were able to borrow in Aki's name!" Haruko: "Wait! What do you mean? The loan is in Aki's name?" Katsue: "No! If we have Aki, customers will be coming in all the time, it means we'll be able to pay back the loan in no time." At last, planning for the Ama Cafe has started. Hiroshi announces that the target opening day will be at the start of the Ama season, July 1. He asks the Amas for their opinions on the design of the place. Natsu wants the windows to face south prompting Yayoi to sing, ♬~I open the window facing the south*~♬. Others suggest varied ideas ranging from simple to the ridiculous: windows should face the ocean, or the east; an open terrace on the second floor where one could drink martinis; a large aquarium where they could dive and get sea urchins; antique rococo furnishings; and a kitchen with a refrigerator made in Germany (Yayoi: ♬~I open the refrigerator facing the south~ lol). After taking down their ideas and computing the costs, Hiroshi says it would take 240 million. He suggests to lower their expectations to match their budget. Katsue: "So the martinis are out, and just settle for happoshu?" (haha). Hiroshi: "That's not the problem. First of all, we have to do away with a second floor open terrace. And to help reduce labor costs, you have to do the decor yourselves." Everyone: "Eh~!" And so everybody helps out in tearing down the old Fishery Cooperative and transform it into a cafe. Meanwhile, Yui has become a TV personality, having a little segment of her own, called "Already Full!" wherein she goes around the prefecture trying out dishes in restaurants. At the shop, Haruko, Daikichi, Sugawara and Yoshida watch her on the TV screen. They comment on how quiet it has been in the shop now that the 'old biddies' are busy building the Ama Cafe. Then, Yoshida shows a VHS copy of the 1986 movie "Shiosai no Memory," that introduced the actress Suzuka Hiromi, and who also sang the theme song (both movie and song were hits). Feeling nostalgic, the guys want to watch the movie but Haruko says "Not now!" since Yui is still on TV. Then, Hiroshi comes in, looking tired. They comment on how thinner he has gotten. Hiroshi says the five Aunties have been complaining from morning til night, he couldn't take it anymore. He's also worried that the cafe may not open in time, and that the Ama-sans seem to be more interested in it than go diving this summer. "Katsue-san seems interested in becoming a qualified barista!" The men think it's bad and that they should recruit young waitresses for the cafe. "While you're at it, maybe we should recruit young Ama-sans as well." So Hiroshi uploads a video announcement of Aki calling for young ladies to work as cafe waitresses and Ama-sans. As a result, many girls have answered Aki's call, flooding the Office and applying for the said positions. Now, Aki has 6 new Ama followers. The once struggling rookie Ama is now the one training the newbies. Yui pays a visit to the almost-finished cafe. She is with director Ikeda who will be shooting a preview of the place. Aki proudly shows Yui the stage which she had especially requested for Yui. "This is where you will sing and dance... If the tables and chairs are moved, it can accommodate 100 people! Please sing here after your debut." Yui is so moved by this, and says thank you. "It has been one full year since Aki came to Kitasanriku," Natsu the Narrator says. "And for this town, she has already become indispensable."
(*from the song "Miserarete;" Yayoi is copying singer Judy Ongg's trademark style)
Ep. 57. July 1, 2009: The first day of the Umihiraki and the Ama season...AND the opening day of the Ama Cafe. Katsue's voice is heard over the PA system, greeting and calling all Ama-sans, old and new, to gather at the Ama Cafe. Aki and Natsu are already up and ready to go at 5:30 am. Aki: "I'm so excited, I couldn't sleep!" But Haruko is still asleep. Natsu says to let her be but Aki says Haruko promised to get up early today. Aki shows Haruko the new cafe. Here's a description of the place: At the door, young, fresh-faced Ama-sans line up to welcome visitors. The Co-op President's former office has been turned into the cafe's seating area. On the south side, there is a photo gallery of Ama-sans, and aquariums filled with rare fishes. The store room where Tamako used to search for stuff has been turned into a cute kitchen where Anbe-san's mamebu cauldron (one she left behind in the station) is enshrined on a stove. At the back of the kitchen, there is a space where the Ama-sans can braid misanga or just plain gossip. The space where they used to gossip and drink has been transformed into a souvenir corner where they can sell the misangas and stuff. At the entrance, there is also an open terrace where rookie Ama-sans break open freshly caught sea urchins for customers. And lastly, Aki shows Haruko the stage where one can do a mini-concert and hold hand-shake events. Plus! There's an impressive 100 inch screen at the stage's background where customers can view live footages of Ama-sans diving for uni. Haruko can't help but be dazzled by it all and be amazed by what her daughter has achieved in just one year. "To think I was worried about bringing you here... Because I hated this town. Well, I still sorta hate it up to now. But I love it.. I love this Ama Cafe!... And for you to help change my dislike for this place, and make me love it? It's really awesome!" Aki tells her mom to quit praising her because she's starting to feel uneasy. Haruko: "Oh, yeah? You don't like it? You're awesome, awesome, awesome!" "That's enough" Aki says, laughing and running away. All the guests come in as the cafe is officially opened, including Adachi and his wife. They all love it and congratulate Hiroshi and Rokuro. On the screen, they watch a live footage of Aki diving for uni in her beloved sea. Thanks to her training as Nambu Moguri, her diving skills have improved by leaps and bounds. Coming from school, Aki rushes inside the Rias shop to catch a live broadcast of Yui's coverage of the Cafe. On the screen, Yui talks about the menu and the freshly caught uni being offered. She interviews the nervous and stammering Katsue and Yayoi, all trying to answer her questions regarding the mamebu that they supposedly "made." But when Tamako is asked, she said, "I did all of the cooking. These guys didn't do anything. They're just in charge of the taste." And since they are told there's still 10 seconds left, Yayoi belts out a song (Sen no Kaze ni natte(1)] on TV. The segment is over and Yoshida asks Haruko if she had seen the copy of the "Shiosai no Memory" movie already but she says not yet. Meanwhile, Misuzu asks Ben, poutily, "How is Mizuguchi-san lately? He hasn't been coming here recently. Why don't you bring him here once in a while?" Haruko asks if she has been dumped. Yoshida: "Did you approach him too strongly, and scared him off?" Misuzu answers: "That was just playing around. It's like Sumo training(2)!" Aki stands up and says she has to catch the train ride home. But Ben comes after her outside the shop. "Have you met with Yui-chan lately?" Aki: "Yes. We're together every morning going to school." Ben: "Has anything unusual happened?" Aki: "Not really. We've been busy doing our own thing..." Ben: "I see. Actually, she seems to be coming and going inside my amber mine." Aki: "Jejeh!" Ben: "Hush! I didn't see her exactly but... here." He shows Aki a phone strap. Aki knows it is Yui's. Ben says he found it inside the tunnel. Aki is back at home. Natsu says she's sorry she can't prepare dinner because she's feeling too tired. Aki says it's okay. As Aki warms herself up some Mamebu in the microwave oven, the stuff that Takuma, Yui, and Ben had said to her, cross her mind. With Natsu asleep, Aki dashes out of the house and goes to Ben's amber mine. She enters the tunnel, forgetting she's still carrying the spoon for her mamebu. Inside, she sees Yui with Takuma. It seems Yui has bought some food and hands it to Takuma. "Jeh!" Aki tries to hide but she trips and her spoon drops. Yui comes over to her and they stare at each other in silence.
(1. "A Thousand Winds" by Akikawa Masafumi)
(2. In sumo terms, "kawaigari" is training. It’s a stronger player giving tough training to younger players)
Ep. 58. Yui just tells her to hurry on inside before Ben comes back. Meanwhile, Misuzu is trying to reach Takuma's phone but only got an answering service. Ben says she can't call him since it's out of range. "The tunnel is 10 meters under the ground." Misuzu: "Geez! What is more important? Me or amber?!" Yoshida (slightly drunk): "Whichever. If you polish both, it'll shine." Misuzu glares at him. "Areh? It was meant as a compliment." Back in the tunnel, Aki asks what Takuma is doing. He says, "Digging a hole. You see, the formation of the amber is along this coast" pointing at the wall, "and extends straight southwards. So if I keep digging here, I'm supposed to reach Miyako." Then, in a deep voice he says, "From there, Yui (not using an honorific) and I will ride a train in Miyako and go to Tokyo." Aki is silent, not really sure what to say to that. Finally Yui says, "He's kidding." At last, she and Takuma explain. Aramaki Taichi is apparently building two theaters: the first one already established in Ueno (being the gateway to Eastern Japan); and the second to be built soon in Shinagawa (the gateway to Western Japan). In an attempt to nurture promising idols and to present them in these venues, he has sent scouts all over Japan, to find these idols in each of the 47 prefectures, and form one big national idol group. This is his so-called "GMT47" plan, with GMT a pun for "Jimote", meaning 'local'. "Girls like us, local idols from the countryside," Yui points out to Aki. Aki says to Takuma, "Aren't you a disciple of Ben-san?" Takuma: "So I don't get caught... Since I got caught, well, it's good that I got caught. If not, it'll be a problem 'cause I'll forever be digging for amber." Aki: "Why did you lie?" Takuma: "For a number of reasons but mainly because I heard your mother sing." Aki: "Eh?" Takuma: "I was surprised, not expecting to hear a singer like her in some remote snack bar. She's not bad, quite compelling, I was really moved... She aimed to be a singer, right? Such type of parents like her, we're not really fond of them because they're a hassle. People who have rash views about the industry become over-protective. So little by little, I carefully familiarized myself with the atmosphere of the shop. Then came the parlor train..." He tells them he sent videos of the event to the Tokyo office. "Just when they gave me the go signal to start the negotiations, Yui had come in saying she wants to debut." Aki: "But what does this mean? Why are you and Yui-chan meeting here in the dark!" Yui says she's been asking Takuma for his counsel. Even if she's turning 18 soon, Yui says she's not young anymore. "I want people to get to know my face and name." Then Takuma says to Aki, "You both have good characters, and I really want to take you to Tokyo, too but... You're busy and all... and not seem too interested." At Bar Rias, Daikichi and Haruko share a drink. He thanks her for coming back, because ever since she came, the town has seen so much progress. And because of the Ama Cafe, train passengers have increased. Of course, Haruko says it's all because of Yui and Aki. "But you know," she adds, "I've also changed a lot. Around this time last year, I was annoyed all the time, Though I do get frustrated even up to now. But my hateful attitude was so uncool... I hated myself and this place. So I failed to see the people, the landscape, the sea in front of me..." Now, she feels that something about herself and the place around her had somehow changed. They also agree Aki had also changed for the better and that Natsu could be the cause. "Yes," Haruko says, "Natsu-san sure is one amazing person." Days passed, and Aki is still thinking about what Takuma had said. But she still likes living in Kitasanriku, she loves the scenery, the sea and the people. She feels it's impossible to leave this place, after all. Haruko arrives home one night, finding Aki and Natsu sleeping on the tatami/dining area with their eyes open. She wakes up Aki. "You're beginning to look like your Grandma... Aki-bappa~." Haruko says she'll be taking a bath. As she heads for the bathroom, Aki finds the VHS copy of the "Shiosai no Memory" movie inside her mother's bag. She is about to pop it in the player but her phone rings. It is Yui. She is calling from outside the Ama Cafe. She seems alone, with a rolling luggage beside her. "Aki, sorry, it's late but... can you come and see me?... I have something important to tell you."
Ep. 59. Aki meets with Yui at the Ama Cafe. As she lets her inside, Yui tells her she had a fight with her mother (and seems to be planning to run off to Tokyo). Yui has told her mom earlier in the day that she wants to audition for Ameyoko Jogakuen... Yoshie: "AmeJo?" Yui: "You don't know it? It's Ameyoko Jogakuen Performing Arts Course. They're gonna be having an audition for their Batch 3 this coming weekend." Yoshie: "Can't you do that after you graduate?" Yui: "No! I don't know if there'll be a next time." Yoshie: "What happens if you pass it?" Yui: "I'll be busy doing events and training for AmeJo." Yoshie: "So you'll be going there from here..." Yui: "It's impossible! Tokyo is 7 hours away." Yoshie: "Then what will you do?" Yui: "I have to move there, of course!" Yoshie: "All of us?" Yui: "How can we ALL move there?" Yoshie: "Is this AmeJo a private or public school?" Yui: "Mom! It's not a school! It's an idol group!" Yui says her mom doesn't understand no matter how much she explains it so she gave up. Aki: "The Akihabara system(1) is difficult (concept), isn't it?" Yui explains to her that AmeJo is more popular now than the 'Akihabara one', plus there will be the upcoming GMT47. "GMT will be the little sister unit of AmeJo." Aki: "I get the picture." Yui: "Do you really?" Aki: "I understand you want to enter AmeJo." Yui says it doesn't matter if it's GMT or AmeJo, "But my parents say I can't go unless I graduate. They even think I'll get over this dream after I graduate. That's WHAT THEY THINK!" Just then, Takuma comes inside the Cafe. He says to Yui it's no good to run away from home. "I told you, right? To convince your parents properly. If you don't have their consent, you can't get support from our Office. It'll be troublesome and can slow things down. What if I talk to your mom?" Yui says it's impossible. Takuma tells Aki to call Yui's home and tell them to pick her up. Aki says okay and goes out but stays at the door to keep an eye on them. Yui asks Takuma what to do. "I don't want to be in Iwate anymore. Girls my age are on TV, already doing more things than I do..." Takuma: "I understand but before that, I think it's better to reassure your family that you'll graduate high school. Not as an assurance for the future but even as an idol, you should (finish school), right?. Besides, there will still be other auditions, so there's no need to hurry." Yui sighs and says "Fine." The first semester is about to end. It is humid inside the classroom so Aki and her classmates are feeling hot and restless. Considering that it's the "last summer vacation of one's life"(2), they do not want to waste any minute of it. But Isono-sensei keeps rambling on and on about what to expect for their final year ("Go job hunting, go on a training ship"), and that even if it's summer vacation, not to go slacking off... Aki loses her cool and shouts: "Will you get it together! We've got groups coming in from Akita today! We're all busy this summer break! And yet you ramble on and on... Please keep it short!" Isono: "Okay. Class dismissed~!" Aki is at the Ama Cafe entertaining guests. She is about to go diving in the sea but Hiroshi, seated at a table, calls out to her. Aki, feeling impatient lets out an irritated "Tsk!" Hiroshi: "Tsk?" Aki: "May I help you?" Hiroshi: "You just 'tsk'ed me. It's only once I get to be a customer here." Aki: "Because I wanna go diving. What's your order?" Hiroshi asks about the set menus being offered. Aki answers that each set has mamebu with some side dish. Hiroshi says, "I'll just have coffee" and Aki gives him another "Tsk." Aki (to Tamako): "Only coffee for him." Tamako: "TSK!" (omg give a poor guy a break XD). He tells Aki: "Sorry about that time. Yui is getting to be a problem... Even at home, there was a big fight, it's been difficult." He tells her what happened recently at the Adachi home: Yui had made her mother cry by saying she doesn't want to be like her mom. "Because she was a TV announcer for two years when Dad met her. And yet here she is in the countryside, dresses up in a lame polo shirt deep in the mountains, unfortunately making stew with an apron on. I don't ever want to become like her!" She goes to her room but her brother intercepts and slaps her. "Who do you think you are! Causing trouble to your family, making a big fuss about going to Tokyo! Do you think you can make it there like that? No, you can’t! Don't be so full of yourself!" Isao knocks Hiroshi on the head, "That's no way to convince her..." To Yui, "You wanna go to Tokyo or be an entertainer. I don't mind you doing the things you like. But don't say bad things about your mom. That's the only thing I will never forgive." Hiroshi wonders why his sister had suddenly become so impatient. Tamako comments that maybe it's because she wants to see her boyfriend Taneichi in Tokyo. Aki does not say anything even if she knows the real reason: because a scout had been hiding in town. And that she and Yui are the only ones who know who he is. Aki has mixed feelings about what Yui is going through. She recalls what Takuma said about her: "I really want to take you to Tokyo, too but you're busy and all, and not seem too interested." It wasn't that she wasn't interested. Actually, Aki DID have fun with Yui at the parlor train event. But the thing is... she hates Tokyo very much. As she is hanging out the laundry, her mother finds a soggy piece of paper inside the pocket of Aki's clothes. "Hey Aki, I told you a hundred times to always check the pockets!" Aki: "Oh, sorry~." Haruko takes a look at the wet paper. "What is this? A business card? It says 'Mizu...Mizu... Man-... Manag--" Aki snatches the paper from Haruko and throws it in the trash bin. "It's just nothing." However, Haruko, sensing something is up, retrieves the paper and reads it. It was Takuma's Heartfull business card. She shows it to Ben at the shop. Ben: "This is the first time I've seen this..." Haruko tells everyone at the bar that Mizuguchi Takuma is a 'person of the industry' and that he's from the Heartful Entertainment Office in Tokyo. Sugawara: "But isn't he a disciple of Ben-san...?" Ben: "Maybe he had been awakened by the charm of amber...!" Haruko: "No, he wasn't! He's not interested in amber at all. In order to go in and out of this shop, he used you, Ben-san." Misuzu: "Me, too?" Haruko: "It's possible. Maybe to get info from you." Hiroshi: "Then why does Aki have this card with her?" Haruko: "Of course, he was trying to scout her and Yui-chan!" Hiroshi: "No wonder Yui's been strange and acting up lately. And she's been purchasing rent information from Tokyo, too..." Haruko: "That's bad!" She lets them read a magazine article about Aramaki Taichi, alias 'Futomaki-san'. Hiroshi realizes that he is the one Yui was looking up in the internet before. Daikichi: "This is not good! If Yui-chan's gone, what will happen to the KitaTetsu! Dammit! What is that bastard Mizuguchi thinking?" Misuzu (crying): "Dammit! Dammmiittt! To think that I was serious about him, I even thought of marriage, too..." Sugawara: "You're always thinking of marriage, anyway." Misuzu: "I've even made tentative reservations for a wedding hall... I've given him my car, too!" Everyone: "Jejejeh!" While they were talking, they did not notice Ben-san had slipped out of the shop... Meantime, Yui and Aki are alone at the Ama Cafe. Yui is determined to leave tonight to go to Tokyo for an audition. Aki comments that her luggage seems pretty big. Yui: "It's okay. Mizuguchi-san is going to drive me there." Aki: "I didn't mean that. Aren't you coming back?" Yui: "I'm not sure. But I did tell my parents, so I'm not a runaway, right?" They wait for Takuma to arrive. He's late and Yui tries to call him but he's not answering. "Wonder if he's driving?" But Takuma is still at the amber mine, digging. Ben sneaks up behind him. Takuma sees him and says, "Oh, Sensei. Just in time. I found a huge one, thought of bringing it to the shop..." But Ben punches him, and shouts, "You're banned from here! Get out now!"
(1. The Akiba or Akihabara System of idol group AKB48 is explained briefly HERE)
(2. The last carefree summer break of high school seniors before they graduate)
Ep. 60. While waiting Aki remembers to get Yui's autograph for the store. "Once you get famous, it'll be too hard to get one. Please write 'To Ama Cafe...' and 'Your mamebu is delicious'." Yui writes it even if she hasn't tasted it. Aki thanks her for "making me your friend even though I'm so self-centered and noisy. I've been annoying right?" Yui says that SHE should be the one who says that. "Because in the internet we are rivals, right? I stole your man, too... If you hadn't had a big heart, I would have received a few punches. Well, actually I doubt whether I can see Taneichi-senpai anyway... Love is prohibited among members of AmeJo." As Futomaki has explained in an interview: "Because, try to imagine. Who would pay for an idol's CDs and collectibles if she is already going steady with someone? She is 'going steady' with every one of her 100,000 or million fans. That's what being an idol is. Well, if she doesn't get caught, then it's good." Yui says that when she was small, she wanted to be somebody different from the usual ambitions of girls. "Cameron Diaz or a 'whirlwind' kind of woman like in movies 'Tomb Raider' and 'Resident Evil.' When I was in 8th Grade I said, 'I want to be an idol.' My mom finally smiled... Now I understand. My parents basically approve and support what I'm doing but... I think it's time. Internet idol, parlor train, local station reporter... I accomplished everything I could do here. Since there are people who come all the way here to meet me... Maybe it's okay for me to feel a little confident about myself. I want to meet those people's expectations.. Am I wrong?" Aki says no. She knows Yui belongs in the limelight ever since the first time she saw her on the train. Especially when she rode on the float during the Autumn Festival. "That was so you! Riding unfazed on top of the float! Looking so regal. That is your true nature." Yui asks: "What about you? What's YOUR true nature?" Aki tries to answer but she couldn't. Then Yui's phone rings. It was Hiroshi on the phone, and Yui doesn't answer it. Aki realizes that Yui didn't tell her family she was leaving. Then, Hiroshi calls Aki's phone. Yui: "Don't answer it." Aki: "But won't he find it suspicious that both of us don't answer our phones?" She answers it. Aki: "Hello... I'm home actually... Yui-chan? No she's not with me. What? She ran away from home?" Hiroshi: "Yeah. Did she tell you anything about an audition tomorrow in Tokyo? I see..." Haruko takes the phone from Hiroshi. "Hello, Aki? What's up with that guy Mizuguchi? Answer me honestly! Don't make me angry. Listen you, what was that about?" Hiroshi: "Please calm down, Haruko-san." Haruko (to Aki on the phone): "Listen good. If you join the entertainment world, or become an idol or go flighty on me, I will never EVER forgive you! Answer me! I can't hear you!" Aki, feeling so scared of her mother, is about to cry. "Ah, y-yes!" Haruko: "If Yui contacts you, I want you to call me right away! Got that? Answer!" Aki: "Yes." Haruko: "How long are you gonna stay up? Hurry on up to bed! Fool!" and hangs up. "Oh no." Aki, realizing something, tells Yui to wait there and rushes out. At the shop, Hiroshi says "If she's not with Aki-chan, then I don't know where she is anymore." Haruko: "Did Aki say she's at home?" Hiroshi: "Yes." Haruko: "We'll see about that..." She starts calling home. Yoshida: "She sure is scary." Running fast, Aki hurries inside the house and answers the phone. "Hello!" Haruko: "Aki?" The call wakes up Natsu. "Who is that? It's past 12 already." Aki (to Haruko on the phone, all sweaty and pretending to sound sleepy): "What? I'm already sleepy, Mom." Haruko: "If that's the case, go on and sleep! You didn't have to answer the phone, fool! Good night~" and hangs up. Aki heaves a huge sigh of relief but then... The Adachi couple suddenly arrives at the Amano home to ask about Yui. Natsu: "No, she didn't come here today. Right, Aki?" Nervously, Aki tries to email (probably Yui) on the phone, not realizing that it's a homephone until the Adachis point it out to her. At the shop, Hiroshi gets a call from his parents to tell him they had no luck in finding Yui. Sugawara, who was out asking some open shops around, comes in and says he had no luck either. Yoshida says she might have already left. Then, Ben comes in and apologizes for what his 'disciple' had done. "I questioned him, and he has confessed. He WAS sent here to scout Yui-chan and Aki-chan. And he wasn't even slightly interested in amber. He lied about being a student of archeology. I caused this to happen. I will never come to this shop again." They tell him not to say such a thing. Ben: "Mizuguchi has moved out of his apartment. He is likely returning to Tokyo tonight by car. From this day onwards, I’ll hide in the hole and think only of amber. I will not be involved in the real world and will only love and think only of amber." They ask him to repeat what he just said but Ben keeps mentioning about the amber parts, irritating the others ("Are you doing that on purpose, old man?!"). Hiroshi: "You said he's going back to Tokyo by car?" Ben: "Yes." Daikichi: "Its that damn motorization!... Blockade! Put up a blockade on National Highway Route 45!" The rest get to work. Takuma has arrived to pick up Yui at the Ama Cafe, presumably taking Misuzu's Shakotan car with him. "Sorry I'm late." Yui seeing the bruise on his mouth asks, "Are you alright?" Takuma: "Oh... just some small stuff that happened. Well, shall we go?" He and Yui head out the door but it is too late. From somewhere, a siren blares loudly and Rokuro's voice is heard on the PA system: "Put a blockade on National Highway Route 45! I repeat..." Then, everyone comes storming in at the Ama cafe, catching Takuma and Yui before they leave.
Next: Week 11 - Part 1
Previous: Week 9
Episode Index: Link
Character Guide: Link
"I really want to take you to Tokyo, too, but..."
Episode Summaries:
Ep. 55. Takuma does not answer Yui's question. Haruko says she's acting a bit weird. Yui: "I know!" But she says sorry and backs away. Just in time, the Ama-sans come in, all hyped up about their strike. Aki greets Yui but Yui does not greet back and hurriedly goes out. Aki and Haruko exchange a "What was that about?" look.
Takuma goes after Yui. He apologizes if he had given a wrong impression. He says the photos and videos he had taken of her were for his relatives who are big fans of Yui. Yui hands him her card. "The web address on this card is for my blog, though it hasn't been updated lately." Takuma: "Eh?" Yui: "Pass this to your relatives." Inside the shop, Aki tells everyone what Yui thinks of Takuma. "He's a scout?" But the women do not take it seriously. Misuzu: "Maybe he's gonna scout me?" They laugh. "What do you think, Aki? Has he said anything to you?" Aki: "Well, he only talked about my video on the internet. She is asked what she will do if she gets scouted. Haruko say that's not going to happen. Aki: "Besides, I've got an Ama Cafe to think about for now." Back at the Tourism Office, the guys contemplate on the Ama Cafe idea. They lament how troublesome the older Ama-sans are. If they give in to the Ama-sans, pretty soon they'll be asking endlessly for things: raising their wages, demanding transportation expenses, etc. They vent out their irritation by giving each one an 'old biddy' nickname. The top old biddy is Natsu-bappa, "who's healthy and stubborn, it's even more difficult (meaning, if she wasn't strong and healthy, she'd give in more)." Katsue is the no. 2, calling her "The Four-Eyed Accountant Old Biddy" who handles money matters. Yayoi is the "Noisy Old Biddy" who instigates things up by always saying "Nda! Nda! Nda!" or "Yeah, Yeah, Yeah!" (lmao). Misuzu is the "Pheromone Biddy," who will spread rumors and cause trouble. And Tamako is the "Shiro Biddy," whom they don't understand what she's angry about. Then they notice that Hiroshi was not saying anything bad about the Ama-sans. "Are you perhaps in good terms with them?" Hiroshi: "Well, they do treat me nicely." So they appoint Hiroshi to coordinate with the 'biddies' in handling the Ama Cafe. They tell the Ama-sans about it. Natsu: "Why him? You trying to run away from it, Daikichi?" Daikichi says of course not, that the KitaTetsu will back them up on this. Katsue: "What about the money?" Yoshida (whispering to the guys): "Tsk... Four-eyed Accountant Old Biddy..." Yayoi hears him and goes to pummel him. Aki tells them they want the Fishing Cooperative Office to be transformed into the Ama Cafe in order to save money. Hearing that, the men now think it is plausible and not just some pipe dream, after all. At the Amano home, Aki reads a postcard from Chubee who is in Cape Town, South Africa. His handwriting is all wobbly (since he's in a boat), giving Aki a hard time reading it. He wishes Haruko a happy birthday. Both Natsu and Aki had forgotten about it. Aki: "I'll give you a misanga." Haruko: "No thanks, I've got two of em." And she shows off the ones Daikichi and Ben had given her. Then Haruko gives Aki another postcard. It is from Taneichi! He wrote that he's working round the clock in building the runway. "You also work hard in becoming a fine Nambu Diver." She happily shows it to Yui the next day. "Have you gotten a post card, too?" Yui says no since he always emails her every night anyway. Aki's enthusiasm is doused, learning that Yui and Taneichi's long distance relationship is doing fine. But she has accepted it, nevertheless. Yui asks if Aki has told her mom about Takuma. But Aki says no, then she adds, "I wonder if he really IS a scout." Yui: "I thought you didn't believe it." Aki: "Yeah, but..." Meanwhile, Misuzu and Takuma are alone at the shop. She is flirting with him. Misuzu: "Taku-chan, do you have a car?" Takuma: "No but I have a license." Misuzu: "Maybe you and I go elope somewhere? Because we can use my car. It's a Shakotan* though." Takuma: "Well, I do like it here." Misuzu: "Then would you like to live with me? You can use my car. Though it's a Shakotan," dangling the car keys in front of him. Back to Aki and Yui... Yui asks Aki again what if the two of them are offered to debut as idols. Yui says she had already passed her contact details to Takuma. "You did say you had fun right?... I can't do it alone. I can't do it without you, Aki-chan!" Somewhere in her mind, Aki IS thinking about it but no... Her mom will not allow it. "I'm sorry. I'm different from you. I dive and sing because I wanted to. Since I am not a professional, I'm only doing this for myself." However... That night, Aki keeps thinking about her conversation with Yui, that she hardly touches her dinner. Haruko notices it, and tells her to hurry up and eat. Then, Rokuro and Katsue come bursting in looking for Natsu. She's not around so they tell Aki and Haruko some great news. "We came from a meeting with a banker a while ago, and discussed about the Ama Cafe. They're gonna lend us 20 million for it!" Inside Ben's amber mine, Takuma is alone digging for amber. He is startled to find Yui standing behind him. "Good evening," she says.(*Shakotan = cars modified to have an ultra-low body and aggressive wheels, popular among Yankis in rural areas)
Ep. 56. Takuma: "If you're looking for Ben-san, he's at the bar." Yui cuts to the chase. "Are you a scout? Working for the industry?" Takuma denies it. Yui says she had read in a magazine that when a scout finds a target, he will rent a room near the target's house, get along well with her friends and family so he can negotiate amicably for a debut. Takuma denies it still, "Have no idea what you're saying." Yui: "I want to debut! I want to be an idol in Tokyo! I don't wanna end in this countryside. What should I do now?" Takuma: "It's up to you. I mean, you say you're prepared and serious... If I WERE a person from the industry, which I am not... But, let's just say if I were, ok?... I would like to know what is the difference between you and all those idol wannabes, the kinda cute but pitiful girls out there?"
At the Amanos, Natsu is told of the good news. Apparently the banker who approved of the loan happens to be a fan of Aki and he was on board the parlor train during the 25th anniversary. "We were able to borrow in Aki's name!" Haruko: "Wait! What do you mean? The loan is in Aki's name?" Katsue: "No! If we have Aki, customers will be coming in all the time, it means we'll be able to pay back the loan in no time." At last, planning for the Ama Cafe has started. Hiroshi announces that the target opening day will be at the start of the Ama season, July 1. He asks the Amas for their opinions on the design of the place. Natsu wants the windows to face south prompting Yayoi to sing, ♬~I open the window facing the south*~♬. Others suggest varied ideas ranging from simple to the ridiculous: windows should face the ocean, or the east; an open terrace on the second floor where one could drink martinis; a large aquarium where they could dive and get sea urchins; antique rococo furnishings; and a kitchen with a refrigerator made in Germany (Yayoi: ♬~I open the refrigerator facing the south~ lol). After taking down their ideas and computing the costs, Hiroshi says it would take 240 million. He suggests to lower their expectations to match their budget. Katsue: "So the martinis are out, and just settle for happoshu?" (haha). Hiroshi: "That's not the problem. First of all, we have to do away with a second floor open terrace. And to help reduce labor costs, you have to do the decor yourselves." Everyone: "Eh~!" And so everybody helps out in tearing down the old Fishery Cooperative and transform it into a cafe. Meanwhile, Yui has become a TV personality, having a little segment of her own, called "Already Full!" wherein she goes around the prefecture trying out dishes in restaurants. At the shop, Haruko, Daikichi, Sugawara and Yoshida watch her on the TV screen. They comment on how quiet it has been in the shop now that the 'old biddies' are busy building the Ama Cafe. Then, Yoshida shows a VHS copy of the 1986 movie "Shiosai no Memory," that introduced the actress Suzuka Hiromi, and who also sang the theme song (both movie and song were hits). Feeling nostalgic, the guys want to watch the movie but Haruko says "Not now!" since Yui is still on TV. Then, Hiroshi comes in, looking tired. They comment on how thinner he has gotten. Hiroshi says the five Aunties have been complaining from morning til night, he couldn't take it anymore. He's also worried that the cafe may not open in time, and that the Ama-sans seem to be more interested in it than go diving this summer. "Katsue-san seems interested in becoming a qualified barista!" The men think it's bad and that they should recruit young waitresses for the cafe. "While you're at it, maybe we should recruit young Ama-sans as well." So Hiroshi uploads a video announcement of Aki calling for young ladies to work as cafe waitresses and Ama-sans. As a result, many girls have answered Aki's call, flooding the Office and applying for the said positions. Now, Aki has 6 new Ama followers. The once struggling rookie Ama is now the one training the newbies. Yui pays a visit to the almost-finished cafe. She is with director Ikeda who will be shooting a preview of the place. Aki proudly shows Yui the stage which she had especially requested for Yui. "This is where you will sing and dance... If the tables and chairs are moved, it can accommodate 100 people! Please sing here after your debut." Yui is so moved by this, and says thank you. "It has been one full year since Aki came to Kitasanriku," Natsu the Narrator says. "And for this town, she has already become indispensable."(*from the song "Miserarete;" Yayoi is copying singer Judy Ongg's trademark style)
Ep. 57. July 1, 2009: The first day of the Umihiraki and the Ama season...AND the opening day of the Ama Cafe. Katsue's voice is heard over the PA system, greeting and calling all Ama-sans, old and new, to gather at the Ama Cafe. Aki and Natsu are already up and ready to go at 5:30 am. Aki: "I'm so excited, I couldn't sleep!" But Haruko is still asleep. Natsu says to let her be but Aki says Haruko promised to get up early today.
Aki shows Haruko the new cafe. Here's a description of the place: At the door, young, fresh-faced Ama-sans line up to welcome visitors. The Co-op President's former office has been turned into the cafe's seating area. On the south side, there is a photo gallery of Ama-sans, and aquariums filled with rare fishes. The store room where Tamako used to search for stuff has been turned into a cute kitchen where Anbe-san's mamebu cauldron (one she left behind in the station) is enshrined on a stove. At the back of the kitchen, there is a space where the Ama-sans can braid misanga or just plain gossip. The space where they used to gossip and drink has been transformed into a souvenir corner where they can sell the misangas and stuff. At the entrance, there is also an open terrace where rookie Ama-sans break open freshly caught sea urchins for customers. And lastly, Aki shows Haruko the stage where one can do a mini-concert and hold hand-shake events. Plus! There's an impressive 100 inch screen at the stage's background where customers can view live footages of Ama-sans diving for uni. Haruko can't help but be dazzled by it all and be amazed by what her daughter has achieved in just one year. "To think I was worried about bringing you here... Because I hated this town. Well, I still sorta hate it up to now. But I love it.. I love this Ama Cafe!... And for you to help change my dislike for this place, and make me love it? It's really awesome!" Aki tells her mom to quit praising her because she's starting to feel uneasy. Haruko: "Oh, yeah? You don't like it? You're awesome, awesome, awesome!" "That's enough" Aki says, laughing and running away. All the guests come in as the cafe is officially opened, including Adachi and his wife. They all love it and congratulate Hiroshi and Rokuro. On the screen, they watch a live footage of Aki diving for uni in her beloved sea. Thanks to her training as Nambu Moguri, her diving skills have improved by leaps and bounds. Coming from school, Aki rushes inside the Rias shop to catch a live broadcast of Yui's coverage of the Cafe. On the screen, Yui talks about the menu and the freshly caught uni being offered. She interviews the nervous and stammering Katsue and Yayoi, all trying to answer her questions regarding the mamebu that they supposedly "made." But when Tamako is asked, she said, "I did all of the cooking. These guys didn't do anything. They're just in charge of the taste." And since they are told there's still 10 seconds left, Yayoi belts out a song (Sen no Kaze ni natte(1)] on TV. The segment is over and Yoshida asks Haruko if she had seen the copy of the "Shiosai no Memory" movie already but she says not yet. Meanwhile, Misuzu asks Ben, poutily, "How is Mizuguchi-san lately? He hasn't been coming here recently. Why don't you bring him here once in a while?" Haruko asks if she has been dumped. Yoshida: "Did you approach him too strongly, and scared him off?" Misuzu answers: "That was just playing around. It's like Sumo training(2)!" Aki stands up and says she has to catch the train ride home. But Ben comes after her outside the shop. "Have you met with Yui-chan lately?" Aki: "Yes. We're together every morning going to school." Ben: "Has anything unusual happened?" Aki: "Not really. We've been busy doing our own thing..." Ben: "I see. Actually, she seems to be coming and going inside my amber mine." Aki: "Jejeh!" Ben: "Hush! I didn't see her exactly but... here." He shows Aki a phone strap. Aki knows it is Yui's. Ben says he found it inside the tunnel. Aki is back at home. Natsu says she's sorry she can't prepare dinner because she's feeling too tired. Aki says it's okay. As Aki warms herself up some Mamebu in the microwave oven, the stuff that Takuma, Yui, and Ben had said to her, cross her mind. With Natsu asleep, Aki dashes out of the house and goes to Ben's amber mine. She enters the tunnel, forgetting she's still carrying the spoon for her mamebu. Inside, she sees Yui with Takuma. It seems Yui has bought some food and hands it to Takuma. "Jeh!" Aki tries to hide but she trips and her spoon drops. Yui comes over to her and they stare at each other in silence.(1. "A Thousand Winds" by Akikawa Masafumi)
(2. In sumo terms, "kawaigari" is training. It’s a stronger player giving tough training to younger players)
Ep. 58. Yui just tells her to hurry on inside before Ben comes back. Meanwhile, Misuzu is trying to reach Takuma's phone but only got an answering service. Ben says she can't call him since it's out of range. "The tunnel is 10 meters under the ground." Misuzu: "Geez! What is more important? Me or amber?!" Yoshida (slightly drunk): "Whichever. If you polish both, it'll shine." Misuzu glares at him. "Areh? It was meant as a compliment."
Back in the tunnel, Aki asks what Takuma is doing. He says, "Digging a hole. You see, the formation of the amber is along this coast" pointing at the wall, "and extends straight southwards. So if I keep digging here, I'm supposed to reach Miyako." Then, in a deep voice he says, "From there, Yui (not using an honorific) and I will ride a train in Miyako and go to Tokyo." Aki is silent, not really sure what to say to that. Finally Yui says, "He's kidding." At last, she and Takuma explain. Aramaki Taichi is apparently building two theaters: the first one already established in Ueno (being the gateway to Eastern Japan); and the second to be built soon in Shinagawa (the gateway to Western Japan). In an attempt to nurture promising idols and to present them in these venues, he has sent scouts all over Japan, to find these idols in each of the 47 prefectures, and form one big national idol group. This is his so-called "GMT47" plan, with GMT a pun for "Jimote", meaning 'local'. "Girls like us, local idols from the countryside," Yui points out to Aki. Aki says to Takuma, "Aren't you a disciple of Ben-san?" Takuma: "So I don't get caught... Since I got caught, well, it's good that I got caught. If not, it'll be a problem 'cause I'll forever be digging for amber." Aki: "Why did you lie?" Takuma: "For a number of reasons but mainly because I heard your mother sing." Aki: "Eh?" Takuma: "I was surprised, not expecting to hear a singer like her in some remote snack bar. She's not bad, quite compelling, I was really moved... She aimed to be a singer, right? Such type of parents like her, we're not really fond of them because they're a hassle. People who have rash views about the industry become over-protective. So little by little, I carefully familiarized myself with the atmosphere of the shop. Then came the parlor train..." He tells them he sent videos of the event to the Tokyo office. "Just when they gave me the go signal to start the negotiations, Yui had come in saying she wants to debut." Aki: "But what does this mean? Why are you and Yui-chan meeting here in the dark!" Yui says she's been asking Takuma for his counsel. Even if she's turning 18 soon, Yui says she's not young anymore. "I want people to get to know my face and name." Then Takuma says to Aki, "You both have good characters, and I really want to take you to Tokyo, too but... You're busy and all... and not seem too interested." At Bar Rias, Daikichi and Haruko share a drink. He thanks her for coming back, because ever since she came, the town has seen so much progress. And because of the Ama Cafe, train passengers have increased. Of course, Haruko says it's all because of Yui and Aki. "But you know," she adds, "I've also changed a lot. Around this time last year, I was annoyed all the time, Though I do get frustrated even up to now. But my hateful attitude was so uncool... I hated myself and this place. So I failed to see the people, the landscape, the sea in front of me..." Now, she feels that something about herself and the place around her had somehow changed. They also agree Aki had also changed for the better and that Natsu could be the cause. "Yes," Haruko says, "Natsu-san sure is one amazing person." Days passed, and Aki is still thinking about what Takuma had said. But she still likes living in Kitasanriku, she loves the scenery, the sea and the people. She feels it's impossible to leave this place, after all. Haruko arrives home one night, finding Aki and Natsu sleeping on the tatami/dining area with their eyes open. She wakes up Aki. "You're beginning to look like your Grandma... Aki-bappa~." Haruko says she'll be taking a bath. As she heads for the bathroom, Aki finds the VHS copy of the "Shiosai no Memory" movie inside her mother's bag. She is about to pop it in the player but her phone rings. It is Yui. She is calling from outside the Ama Cafe. She seems alone, with a rolling luggage beside her. "Aki, sorry, it's late but... can you come and see me?... I have something important to tell you."Ep. 59. Aki meets with Yui at the Ama Cafe. As she lets her inside, Yui tells her she had a fight with her mother (and seems to be planning to run off to Tokyo). Yui has told her mom earlier in the day that she wants to audition for Ameyoko Jogakuen...
Yoshie: "AmeJo?" Yui: "You don't know it? It's Ameyoko Jogakuen Performing Arts Course. They're gonna be having an audition for their Batch 3 this coming weekend." Yoshie: "Can't you do that after you graduate?" Yui: "No! I don't know if there'll be a next time." Yoshie: "What happens if you pass it?" Yui: "I'll be busy doing events and training for AmeJo." Yoshie: "So you'll be going there from here..." Yui: "It's impossible! Tokyo is 7 hours away." Yoshie: "Then what will you do?" Yui: "I have to move there, of course!" Yoshie: "All of us?" Yui: "How can we ALL move there?" Yoshie: "Is this AmeJo a private or public school?" Yui: "Mom! It's not a school! It's an idol group!" Yui says her mom doesn't understand no matter how much she explains it so she gave up. Aki: "The Akihabara system(1) is difficult (concept), isn't it?" Yui explains to her that AmeJo is more popular now than the 'Akihabara one', plus there will be the upcoming GMT47. "GMT will be the little sister unit of AmeJo." Aki: "I get the picture." Yui: "Do you really?" Aki: "I understand you want to enter AmeJo." Yui says it doesn't matter if it's GMT or AmeJo, "But my parents say I can't go unless I graduate. They even think I'll get over this dream after I graduate. That's WHAT THEY THINK!" Just then, Takuma comes inside the Cafe. He says to Yui it's no good to run away from home. "I told you, right? To convince your parents properly. If you don't have their consent, you can't get support from our Office. It'll be troublesome and can slow things down. What if I talk to your mom?" Yui says it's impossible. Takuma tells Aki to call Yui's home and tell them to pick her up. Aki says okay and goes out but stays at the door to keep an eye on them. Yui asks Takuma what to do. "I don't want to be in Iwate anymore. Girls my age are on TV, already doing more things than I do..." Takuma: "I understand but before that, I think it's better to reassure your family that you'll graduate high school. Not as an assurance for the future but even as an idol, you should (finish school), right?. Besides, there will still be other auditions, so there's no need to hurry." Yui sighs and says "Fine." The first semester is about to end. It is humid inside the classroom so Aki and her classmates are feeling hot and restless. Considering that it's the "last summer vacation of one's life"(2), they do not want to waste any minute of it. But Isono-sensei keeps rambling on and on about what to expect for their final year ("Go job hunting, go on a training ship"), and that even if it's summer vacation, not to go slacking off... Aki loses her cool and shouts: "Will you get it together! We've got groups coming in from Akita today! We're all busy this summer break! And yet you ramble on and on... Please keep it short!" Isono: "Okay. Class dismissed~!" Aki is at the Ama Cafe entertaining guests. She is about to go diving in the sea but Hiroshi, seated at a table, calls out to her. Aki, feeling impatient lets out an irritated "Tsk!" Hiroshi: "Tsk?" Aki: "May I help you?" Hiroshi: "You just 'tsk'ed me. It's only once I get to be a customer here." Aki: "Because I wanna go diving. What's your order?" Hiroshi asks about the set menus being offered. Aki answers that each set has mamebu with some side dish. Hiroshi says, "I'll just have coffee" and Aki gives him another "Tsk." Aki (to Tamako): "Only coffee for him." Tamako: "TSK!" (omg give a poor guy a break XD). He tells Aki: "Sorry about that time. Yui is getting to be a problem... Even at home, there was a big fight, it's been difficult." He tells her what happened recently at the Adachi home: Yui had made her mother cry by saying she doesn't want to be like her mom. "Because she was a TV announcer for two years when Dad met her. And yet here she is in the countryside, dresses up in a lame polo shirt deep in the mountains, unfortunately making stew with an apron on. I don't ever want to become like her!" She goes to her room but her brother intercepts and slaps her. "Who do you think you are! Causing trouble to your family, making a big fuss about going to Tokyo! Do you think you can make it there like that? No, you can’t! Don't be so full of yourself!" Isao knocks Hiroshi on the head, "That's no way to convince her..." To Yui, "You wanna go to Tokyo or be an entertainer. I don't mind you doing the things you like. But don't say bad things about your mom. That's the only thing I will never forgive." Hiroshi wonders why his sister had suddenly become so impatient. Tamako comments that maybe it's because she wants to see her boyfriend Taneichi in Tokyo. Aki does not say anything even if she knows the real reason: because a scout had been hiding in town. And that she and Yui are the only ones who know who he is. Aki has mixed feelings about what Yui is going through. She recalls what Takuma said about her: "I really want to take you to Tokyo, too but you're busy and all, and not seem too interested." It wasn't that she wasn't interested. Actually, Aki DID have fun with Yui at the parlor train event. But the thing is... she hates Tokyo very much. As she is hanging out the laundry, her mother finds a soggy piece of paper inside the pocket of Aki's clothes. "Hey Aki, I told you a hundred times to always check the pockets!" Aki: "Oh, sorry~." Haruko takes a look at the wet paper. "What is this? A business card? It says 'Mizu...Mizu... Man-... Manag--" Aki snatches the paper from Haruko and throws it in the trash bin. "It's just nothing." However, Haruko, sensing something is up, retrieves the paper and reads it. It was Takuma's Heartfull business card. She shows it to Ben at the shop. Ben: "This is the first time I've seen this..." Haruko tells everyone at the bar that Mizuguchi Takuma is a 'person of the industry' and that he's from the Heartful Entertainment Office in Tokyo. Sugawara: "But isn't he a disciple of Ben-san...?" Ben: "Maybe he had been awakened by the charm of amber...!" Haruko: "No, he wasn't! He's not interested in amber at all. In order to go in and out of this shop, he used you, Ben-san." Misuzu: "Me, too?" Haruko: "It's possible. Maybe to get info from you." Hiroshi: "Then why does Aki have this card with her?" Haruko: "Of course, he was trying to scout her and Yui-chan!" Hiroshi: "No wonder Yui's been strange and acting up lately. And she's been purchasing rent information from Tokyo, too..." Haruko: "That's bad!" She lets them read a magazine article about Aramaki Taichi, alias 'Futomaki-san'. Hiroshi realizes that he is the one Yui was looking up in the internet before. Daikichi: "This is not good! If Yui-chan's gone, what will happen to the KitaTetsu! Dammit! What is that bastard Mizuguchi thinking?" Misuzu (crying): "Dammit! Dammmiittt! To think that I was serious about him, I even thought of marriage, too..." Sugawara: "You're always thinking of marriage, anyway." Misuzu: "I've even made tentative reservations for a wedding hall... I've given him my car, too!" Everyone: "Jejejeh!" While they were talking, they did not notice Ben-san had slipped out of the shop... Meantime, Yui and Aki are alone at the Ama Cafe. Yui is determined to leave tonight to go to Tokyo for an audition. Aki comments that her luggage seems pretty big. Yui: "It's okay. Mizuguchi-san is going to drive me there." Aki: "I didn't mean that. Aren't you coming back?" Yui: "I'm not sure. But I did tell my parents, so I'm not a runaway, right?" They wait for Takuma to arrive. He's late and Yui tries to call him but he's not answering. "Wonder if he's driving?" But Takuma is still at the amber mine, digging. Ben sneaks up behind him. Takuma sees him and says, "Oh, Sensei. Just in time. I found a huge one, thought of bringing it to the shop..." But Ben punches him, and shouts, "You're banned from here! Get out now!"(1. The Akiba or Akihabara System of idol group AKB48 is explained briefly HERE)
(2. The last carefree summer break of high school seniors before they graduate)
Ep. 60. While waiting Aki remembers to get Yui's autograph for the store. "Once you get famous, it'll be too hard to get one. Please write 'To Ama Cafe...' and 'Your mamebu is delicious'." Yui writes it even if she hasn't tasted it. Aki thanks her for "making me your friend even though I'm so self-centered and noisy. I've been annoying right?" Yui says that SHE should be the one who says that. "Because in the internet we are rivals, right? I stole your man, too... If you hadn't had a big heart, I would have received a few punches. Well, actually I doubt whether I can see Taneichi-senpai anyway... Love is prohibited among members of AmeJo." As Futomaki has explained in an interview: "Because, try to imagine. Who would pay for an idol's CDs and collectibles if she is already going steady with someone? She is 'going steady' with every one of her 100,000 or million fans. That's what being an idol is. Well, if she doesn't get caught, then it's good." Yui says that when she was small, she wanted to be somebody different from the usual ambitions of girls. "Cameron Diaz or a 'whirlwind' kind of woman like in movies 'Tomb Raider' and 'Resident Evil.' When I was in 8th Grade I said, 'I want to be an idol.' My mom finally smiled... Now I understand. My parents basically approve and support what I'm doing but... I think it's time. Internet idol, parlor train, local station reporter... I accomplished everything I could do here. Since there are people who come all the way here to meet me... Maybe it's okay for me to feel a little confident about myself. I want to meet those people's expectations.. Am I wrong?" Aki says no. She knows Yui belongs in the limelight ever since the first time she saw her on the train. Especially when she rode on the float during the Autumn Festival. "That was so you! Riding unfazed on top of the float! Looking so regal. That is your true nature." Yui asks: "What about you? What's YOUR true nature?" Aki tries to answer but she couldn't. Then Yui's phone rings.
It was Hiroshi on the phone, and Yui doesn't answer it. Aki realizes that Yui didn't tell her family she was leaving. Then, Hiroshi calls Aki's phone. Yui: "Don't answer it." Aki: "But won't he find it suspicious that both of us don't answer our phones?" She answers it. Aki: "Hello... I'm home actually... Yui-chan? No she's not with me. What? She ran away from home?" Hiroshi: "Yeah. Did she tell you anything about an audition tomorrow in Tokyo? I see..." Haruko takes the phone from Hiroshi. "Hello, Aki? What's up with that guy Mizuguchi? Answer me honestly! Don't make me angry. Listen you, what was that about?" Hiroshi: "Please calm down, Haruko-san." Haruko (to Aki on the phone): "Listen good. If you join the entertainment world, or become an idol or go flighty on me, I will never EVER forgive you! Answer me! I can't hear you!" Aki, feeling so scared of her mother, is about to cry. "Ah, y-yes!" Haruko: "If Yui contacts you, I want you to call me right away! Got that? Answer!" Aki: "Yes." Haruko: "How long are you gonna stay up? Hurry on up to bed! Fool!" and hangs up. "Oh no." Aki, realizing something, tells Yui to wait there and rushes out. At the shop, Hiroshi says "If she's not with Aki-chan, then I don't know where she is anymore." Haruko: "Did Aki say she's at home?" Hiroshi: "Yes." Haruko: "We'll see about that..." She starts calling home. Yoshida: "She sure is scary." Running fast, Aki hurries inside the house and answers the phone. "Hello!" Haruko: "Aki?" The call wakes up Natsu. "Who is that? It's past 12 already." Aki (to Haruko on the phone, all sweaty and pretending to sound sleepy): "What? I'm already sleepy, Mom." Haruko: "If that's the case, go on and sleep! You didn't have to answer the phone, fool! Good night~" and hangs up. Aki heaves a huge sigh of relief but then... The Adachi couple suddenly arrives at the Amano home to ask about Yui. Natsu: "No, she didn't come here today. Right, Aki?" Nervously, Aki tries to email (probably Yui) on the phone, not realizing that it's a homephone until the Adachis point it out to her. At the shop, Hiroshi gets a call from his parents to tell him they had no luck in finding Yui. Sugawara, who was out asking some open shops around, comes in and says he had no luck either. Yoshida says she might have already left. Then, Ben comes in and apologizes for what his 'disciple' had done. "I questioned him, and he has confessed. He WAS sent here to scout Yui-chan and Aki-chan. And he wasn't even slightly interested in amber. He lied about being a student of archeology. I caused this to happen. I will never come to this shop again." They tell him not to say such a thing. Ben: "Mizuguchi has moved out of his apartment. He is likely returning to Tokyo tonight by car. From this day onwards, I’ll hide in the hole and think only of amber. I will not be involved in the real world and will only love and think only of amber." They ask him to repeat what he just said but Ben keeps mentioning about the amber parts, irritating the others ("Are you doing that on purpose, old man?!"). Hiroshi: "You said he's going back to Tokyo by car?" Ben: "Yes." Daikichi: "Its that damn motorization!... Blockade! Put up a blockade on National Highway Route 45!" The rest get to work. Takuma has arrived to pick up Yui at the Ama Cafe, presumably taking Misuzu's Shakotan car with him. "Sorry I'm late." Yui seeing the bruise on his mouth asks, "Are you alright?" Takuma: "Oh... just some small stuff that happened. Well, shall we go?" He and Yui head out the door but it is too late. From somewhere, a siren blares loudly and Rokuro's voice is heard on the PA system: "Put a blockade on National Highway Route 45! I repeat..." Then, everyone comes storming in at the Ama cafe, catching Takuma and Yui before they leave.Next: Week 11 - Part 1
Previous: Week 9
Episode Index: Link
Character Guide: Link
