I'll be looking forward to that punch of yours, Hokko.
You began boxing with the sole intent of punching him, no?
Why is it I do boxing?
Boxing is all about respecting your opponent.
They went through a similar grueling regime to stand on the ring.
That's why you don't pull your punches, quite literally so.
One-two.
[Hirayama]
Everyone ready? [Kaori, Congrats on making the Japan Rank!]
Cheers! [Kaori, Congrats on making the Japan Rank!]
Kaori!
Congrats!
Congratulations!
Your match was so moving.
Her left cross to right hook was deadly.
Congrats, Kaori.
Thank you.
I owe this win to you.
- Hey now... - All right folks.
Our renowned Second is back on her feet.
Pick her up!
- What? - Ms. Yui!
No, no thanks.
All right, bring it.
Bring it on.
She stumbled into our lives, and set things back in motion.
Go live your life again.
I'm back.
Oh, Kairi. Didn't realize you were back.
Sorry I missed lunch today.
It's fine.
So, how'd it go?
Your date.
Who was it today?
I wasn't on a date.
Oh yeah, before I forget.
The studio I work for is looking for a new photographer.
Did you want in?
Didn't think so.
I'll ask someone else.
Mr. Hanegi sure is late.
He's probably off visiting the cemetery.
To see Mr. Hirayama?
It's his routine to report back to Daichi every match.
He should be back soon.
What was he like? Mr. Hirayama, that is.
He was a bonafide boxing maniac.
He was a good cook, and loved to read, too.
He also liked flowers.
- Flowers? - Yeah.
See that bouquet up there?
Apparently those flowers symbolize victory.
Daichi put them up for good luck, and Pops has kept up the tradition.
He sounds like a kind individual.
Everyone here loved him.
There's a reason why Kairi hasn't moved on, seven years later.
Ms. Sato.
Yes?
Thanks.
Huh?
You're the reason Kairi came to the match today.
I wouldn't say that.
If anything...
He told me off good today.
Knock it off already.
Quit stomping into my life.
Don't let him get to you.
He just isn't being honest with himself.
May I use this?
Is that supposed to be Kairi?
It's a "scum"-bag.
Looking good, Ms. Sato.
Thank you, sir.
Welcome back.
She truly has great posture.
All right.
You start sparring tomorrow.
Really?
Yes!
The tourism division will once again hold our annual photography contest
with the Kanagawa Post.
Kojima, the details please.
Yes, sir.
First, we shall invite both professionals and amateurs alike
to submit their photos for the contest's promotional poster.
We'll advertise this opportunity within City Hall, [Works will be judged in fairness]
as well as on our website. [Works will be judged in fairness]
We will ask participants to send in their work and application
to Kawasaki City Hall's tourism department.
[Looking for photographs for our Photography Contest Poster!]
There you are, Hokomi.
- Nade. - I was looking for you.
What were you doing?
Oh, the contest.
So, what's up?
The lady in this photo is at the receptionist desk.
She wants to see you.
Truth be told, my husband passed away the other day.
Don't worry, it was not the interview.
We received permission of leave from the hospital that day.
He was so excited for the interview, he didn't even hesitate.
I couldn't even tell...
You see,
my husband absolutely adored this photograph.
He even joked about making it his photograph at the funeral.
If you have any more photographs of my husband,
could I please have them?
Of course.
I'll be sure to inform the photographer of your request.
Thank you very much.
The one who took those photos was Mr. Kuzuya, right?
Yeah.
I heard he didn't show for your event the other day.
A true and tried scumbag.
Who told you?
Kojima. We're sort of best buds now.
Kojima...
It's not that he didn't show. Things just got complicated.
- What? - You're getting defensive.
But I can't blame you for caring. You've kissed him twice now.
I'm telling you, we're not like that.
So, what're you going to do?
You should submit Mr. Kuzuya's photo to the contest for him.
You were considering it while putting up that poster, right?
No, I was not.
[Hokomi Sato]
The number you have dialed is currently unavailable.
Please leave a message after the tone.
[BAR]
Ms. Hokomi?
Hello there. Is Mr. Kuzuya...
No.
He might be off today.
I see.
Did you need him for something?
Could you pass a message along to him?
Sure.
The owner of a restaurant we interviewed has passed away.
His wife came today, asking for more pictures Mr. Kuzuya took of her husband.
This is the wife, Mrs. Sasaki's contact information.
Could you please tell Mr. Kuzuya to reach out to her?
I don't mind, but why not call him yourself?
Because he is currently avoiding me.
In any case, please pass the message along.
Thank you.
She's gone.
I don't think you were fooling her though.
[I Wanna Punch that Scumbag!] [Round 5]
Ms. Sato.
Over here.
Yes, ma'am.
Sparring teaches you the flow of a match.
Although it looks difficult, the basic practice is simple.
Guard, dodge, and hit. That's all there is to it.
Yes, ma'am.
For now, you don't have to worry about weaving or ducking.
Just make sure your headgear stays on.
Yes, ma'am.
When your opponent throws a punch,
in other words when their guard is down, go for a hit.
Yes, ma'am.
- Aim for your opponent's- - Jaw, yes?
You got it.
Open wide.
Bite down.
All right, let's do this.
Here's to a good spar.
Likewise, sir.
Ready.
Throw the first punch.
Remember your drills.
Good one.
- Don't dodge with your face. - Got it.
Keep your guard up.
Steady.
She's smiling?
Hup.
[DAICHI]
[Daichi]
Welcome.
Could I grab a drink?
Sure.
That's some good stuff.
I hear you came to the match.
Thanks.
I wasn't able to watch though.
That's fine.
I'm just feeling nostalgic today.
I owe it to Ms. Sato... Hokomi, that is.
She's begun sparring.
She's all smiles, no matter how much she gets knocked around.
Reminds me of you.
Do you remember?
Not really.
Well, I do.
I was reminded of you lot, and why I opened the gym at all.
If there's one lesson I want folks to take away from boxing,
it's to understand the pain of others.
You've atoned plenty, Kairi.
Yui's finally moving on as a Second,
and I think it's about time for you, too.
Would you come with me to Daichi's annual memorial service next week?
Just think about it.
[Practice Notes - Daichi Hirayama]
Keep sighing, and all your happiness will escape.
Is something up, Sayami?
Not really.
What's with the bruise?
It's from practice.
So? Why the long face?
Daddy's thinking of getting remarried.
Hey.
Remarried?
Is that why you're sighing?
You still had feelings for him?
Of course not.
I'm just mad he beat me to the punch.
That dirtbag...
You're not being honest.
This is why you keep losing the things important to you.
What's that supposed to mean?
Good night.
I need my beauty sleep.
Mimi.
You're the most important thing to me!
I'm activating my blanket barrier!
Don't come in! [Call History - Kairi Kuzuya]
Mommy, no! [Call History - Kairi Kuzuya]
I said you can't come in!
Dieting, day one. My body won't move the way I want it to.
My head also feels fuzzy.
I'm craving Taiyaki*, badly. [T/N: Fish-shaped pastry, usually filled with red bean]
I was so hungry, I couldn't sleep. My legs wouldn't move all day.
I bet Kairi's going through a similar experience.
I'm craving ramen, badly.
One last rep.
Come on, faster.
Five, four, three, two, one.
Gloves down.
You get a minute break.
Seriously? Yui you demon.
I'm a demon? Fine by me.
You're overreacting, Kairi.
I want dumplings.
If you exceed your weight, I'm pummeling you.
You demon!
I'm no demon.
If anything, I'm one of the nicer ones.
I met Kairi for the first time in a while.
He was looking good.
Tomorrow's our match.
I'll accept any outcome to come my way.
I'm glad my opponent tomorrow is Kairi.
Think about what it is you can do, and...
[Move on.]
I heard about you from Satoru. [Studio Nishi]
You work for free?
Mr. Nishi, I don't think he'll work for free...
Sir.
I'll do anything.
I wish to learn photography, if you'll have me.
Do you have any of your work on you?
Yes, sir.
- Here they are. - Great.
Kuzuya, was it?
Yes, sir.
Are you free to work the day after tomorrow?
Yes, sir.
Thank you for coming to visit my husband.
Of course. Although, please allow me to apologize.
I wasn't able to reach the photographer for you.
What?
But Mr. Kuzuya gave me a call.
- What? - I thought you two were coming together today.
Together?
Hello there, ma'am.
There he is. Welcome.
If you were coming, you could have given a heads up.
I gave one. To Mrs. Sasaki.
I would have appreciated one as well.
Thank you both for coming today.
Have a seat, right this way.
Thank you, ma'am.
I apologize for the delay.
Here are your husband's photos.
You printed so many.
My goodness...
A professional sure knows their work.
My husband and I were talking about it.
I'm far from being a professional, ma'am.
People used to believe a photograph would ensnare someone's soul.
But your pictures make my husband feel so alive.
Thank you so much, truly.
You're bruising.
I received a blow during a spar that would've knocked me out in a real match.
Losing is all a part of getting stronger after all.
See you.
Say...
City Hall is hosting a photography contest,
and we're taking applications for a picture to use on promotional material.
[Looking for photographs for our Photography Contest Poster!]
Why not send in a work of your own?
The applications will be judged fairly,
- and if things go well- - You never change, do you?
Huh?
Way too nosy.
Over here, Mr. Oba.
Ms. Nitta.
Excuse me.
- Go ahead. - Thank you.
I'm glad there was an empty seat.
And I'm lucky I get to eat lunch with you.
Bon appétit.
Is Sato out today?
Yeah, on personal business. You know, with that photographer.
- Mr. Kuzuya? - Exactly.
Hokomi feels responsible for him losing his work.
It's not her fault though.
She wants to do something for him.
She even goes to visit him at the bar he works at.
I sense something's in the air, don't you?
She even recommended him to that photography thing.
You never change, do you?
Way too nosy.
Mr. Kuzuya?
Thank goodness, it is you.
I'm sorry for bothering.
Would you happen to be free in a bit?
That's delicious.
I'm sorry for the sudden invitation. Did I catch you at a bad time?
No, it's fine.
I wanted to apologize for what happened with the event.
Please, don't apologize.
What's done is done.
Besides, I caused the trouble.
I wouldn't say that.
You even called in a substitute for us. The event was a success.
What I'm more frustrated about...
is the influence of some greater power here.
I cannot take action, without knowing the circumstances.
It's been bugging me for quite some time now.
I'll get straight to it.
What occurred between you and Congressman Tomioka?
It's a personal issue.
So, you know him?
He is...
my father.
I see.
I understand now.
In short, stuff happened between us.
Mr. Kuzuya, I like the photographs you take.
Can I help in any way?
I know I may be butting in, but if you wish to fight, I'll aid you.
I'm actually quite stubborn when it comes to things like this.
I appreciate it, but why go that far?
Why?
I wonder...
I'm sorry for getting heated on my own.
[TOMIOKA]
Thanks.
I'm going to continue working as a photographer.
I know I have a long way to go, and it's an unstable job.
But I'll do all I can.
Life is never that simple.
This is exactly why I was against you boxing.
You go on and do whatever, only to bring me trouble.
The one who throws the punch may forget,
but the one taking the hit will always remember.
I won't forget.
I plan to carry this weight, until the day I day.
Please.
Let me continue my work.
Do what you want.
- What's that? - The applicants for that poster.
They told me to sort through them all.
Which leaves me with all the grunt work.
Slow and steady wins the race.
What's up with that?
[Kawasaki City Hall, Tourism Division - Photography Contest]
[Kairi Kuzuya]
Ms. Yui, I'll be heading out.
Sure. Great work today.
Excuse me.
Is everything all right with Mr. Hanegi?
It's Daichi's annual memorial service today.
I'm sure his folks will chase Pops out though.
This is all Daichi's gear.
Pops took them all from the gym he moved to.
When Daichi lost consciousness...
his folks refused to let Pops and Kairi see him
in the half year before he passed.
Why the hell have you come?
Get lost already.
- Mr. Hanegi. - You're the reason my son is like this.
- Sir. - You hear me?
Kairi would visit every single day, only to be chased out.
Even now...
Daichi's family has not forgiven Kairi.
[Daichi Hirayama - 7th Memorial Service]
You never know when to give up.
My apologies.
As soon as you've given your prayers, leave.
What are you doing here?
Get lost.
I said,
leave this place.
Let me go.
You have some nerve coming here.
I'm sorry, Mr. Hirayama.
What's the big idea?
I am not asking for forgiveness.
I will never forget Daichi either.
However...
I have chosen to move on.
I will work earnestly,
and lead a life that wouldn't put Daichi to shame.
I will have none of it.
I saw a photograph with your damned name next to it.
Can you imagine the frustration I felt?
I am Daichi's father.
You cannot imagine how our family is suffering.
He had his whole life ahead of him.
Give me back my son.
Give me back my Daichi!
I'm sorry, Mr. Hirayama.
I'm so sorry.
Don't show your face here ever again.
[Bar Akemi]
Akemi!
♪ What is it you're looking for? ♪
♪ Is it the search you're looking for? ♪
♪ Be it in a bag, or your desk ♪
Nari takes the stage!
♪ I still feel inclined to keep looking ♪
♪ But for now, how about a dance with me? ♪
♪ Into our dreams ♪
♪ It's where I'd like to go, don't you agree? ♪
He's going on a rampage.
Nari.
♪ Never allowed a moment of rest ♪
♪ Never allowed a chuckle or laugh ♪
Good night, you three!
Outta the way!
There.
Are you all right?
I'll get you some water.
Thanks, Ms. Sato.
It's no trouble.
Oh, you're finally awake.
Thank you, Hokomi.
Just give me a moment.
Here you are.
Thank you.
Is everything okay? Here's a warm towel.
Sorry about that, Akemi.
I drunk myself stupid, like a goddamn clown.
Oh, please. Getting fine men drunk is the real pull of this job.
Sir.
I hear today was Mr. Hirayama's memorial service.
I'm sorry, I shouldn't pry.
It's fine.
Kairi came today.
- What? - But he was chased out the gate.
They even threw a slipper at him.
He was absolutely battered because of them.
And despite it all...
He bowed down and promised he would live an honest life.
He's strong, isn't he?
Always has been, that boy.
He shoulders all his burdens on his own.
That boy has always...
Always been fighting.
Look at me.
Acting like I'm Kairi's father and all.
I talk big, and yet...
I couldn't do a thing for him.
What a sorry excuse of a man I am.
This is Kuzuya, speaking.
Hey, it's Nishi.
Sorry, but I'm gonna have to take you off tomorrow's job.
Got it.
Could I at least ask the reason?
We happened to hear an old rumor of yours.
We pride ourselves in trust, so we won't be questioning you now .
I'll call if another opportunity arises.
Sorry to pull the rug on you.
You said Mr. Kuzuya killed a man.
But was it an accident?
Maybe related to boxing?
Who told you?
Don't underestimate my information network.
Hokomi is going to recommend Mr. Kuzuya's work for our contest posters.
I see those two are getting along well.
[Think about what it is you can do, and move on.]
Jeez...
Why do I have to do this?
Kuzuya... Kuzuya...
Number 12.
Let's see...
There he is.
Hold on.
What are you doing with that applicant?
Huh?
Mr. Oba told me this "Kuzuya" wasn't to be considered.
What's going on?
Did Congressman Tomioka pull some strings again?
- I won't allow it. - Sato.
What did Mr. Kuzuya ever do to him?
- I'll make an appeal. - Hold on.
Congressman Tomioka is...
Mr. Kuzuya's father.
What?
Mr. Kuzuya has long since been disowned by him.
However, this wasn't the work of Mr. Tomioka.
The family of the deceased boxer directly submitted a complaint to us.
But sir...
Judging hasn't even begun yet, so why...
I'm looking into that right now as well.
But the one who withdrew is Mr. Kuzuya himself.
I asked Mr. Kuzuya to reconsider, but he said he's caused us enough trouble.
This just isn't an issue we can resolve.
You never change, do you?
Way too nosy.
He's strong, isn't he?
He shoulders all his burdens on his own.
That boy has always been fighting.
I can't believe Kairi's joining for karaoke.
- I wanna hear Kairi sing. - Me, too!
Then I guess I've got to.
- Who's that? - Hold on.
I've got a great idea.
[Found Kairi!]
[Karaoke Bar SUNWAVES]
♪ Flying Get, in a step ♪
♪ I'll catch your feelings here and now ♪
♪ Flying Get, before another word ♪
Join in, Kairi.
- Sing along! - A mic for you.
You drank too much, man.
Kairi, are you okay?
Who're you?
Huh?
Just kidding.
Bathroom.
- Will he be okay? - He'll be fine.
Sorry, he's seriously drunk.
Don't back down. Stay on the offensive.
Exactly. Perfect.
Quit meddling. It's none of your business.
You never change. Way too nosy.
Quit stomping into my life.
I'll be looking forward to that punch of yours, Hokko.
Kairi.
You drank way too much.
You all right, Kairi?
- I wanna go to Kairi's place. - Me, too.
Shall we?
- Yeah! - Let's go!
I'm totally down.
Miss, you're in our way.
Do you know her?
Do I? Let's go.
We'll meet you later.
Let's go, come on.
Go on.
I heard about the poster application.
I'm sorry.
- I shouldn't have recommended you to apply. - Just leave me alone.
You followed me out here, and for what?
Now go home.
I can't leave you be.
What's that?
Is that pity? Are you comforting me?
No.
I've been thinking all this time, about what I can do for you.
Really now.
Then let me do you once.
My life has been in the pits ever since you showed up.
Fine.
Let's go.
You're too easy.
Even got us a room and everything.
This is why guys cheat you.
I don't care if this is a trick.
Because I know the truth.
I know you struggle.
And I know, deep down...
You're strong and kind.
I know you don't want to cause others trouble.
So, you pull away on purpose.
You know...
I tried.
Everyone else was moving on, so I tried.
And yet...
Every time I try to move on, I get a dose of reality.
The one throwing the punch may forget.
But the one taking the hit will always remember.
He had his whole life ahead of him.
Give me back my son!
No matter how much I apologize.
No matter how much I regret.
I can't turn back time.
What am I supposed to do?
No matter what people say about you,
no matter what anyone in the world claims they know,
I will be by your side.
I will be your ally.
So, please.
Please don't destroy yourself.
And when you need to move on, despite it all...
I will give you a solid punch.
Because...
I love you.
So, I'll be right there to punch you.
Want to try going against someone next weekend? [Her first practice match!]
Give her all you've got. [Her first practice match!]
We could go out. [Will they date?]
But I like our relationship now.
Do you realize how I felt, when I...
Don't assume life's that simple. [The scumbag takes responsibility?]
I wanted to ask, are you going out with Sato?
Hokko, I...