In 1954, as Japan recovers from the devastation of World War II, a dark secret festers within the halls of Toho Studios. Eriko Tanaka, a journalist, is drawn into a mystery surrounding her brother, Shindo, a movie photographer working on the set of...
Morning arrived with the pale glow of dawn seeping through the curtains, accompanied by the distant chatter of the city awakening. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of rain from the night before.
Eriko stood by the small mirror, carefully adjusting her blouse and smoothing out any wrinkles. She had always been meticulous about her appearance, a habit ingrained in her ever since she began working as a journalist. As she reached for her hairbrush, she heard a sudden rustling behind her-sharp, hurried movements that broke the otherwise peaceful morning.
"Eriko! Look at this!"
She turned to see Shindo hunched over the table, gripping a newspaper with an intensity she hadn't seen since they moved in. His eyes were wide, his lips slightly parted in disbelief.
Eriko raised an eyebrow as she stepped closer. "What is it?"
Shindo tapped at a job listing on the page. His hands were almost trembling.
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"Toho Studios," he said breathlessly. "They're looking for a photographer for their upcoming film."
Eriko's eyes widened slightly. Toho Studios was one of the most prestigious film companies in Japan, producing some of the country's most famous motion pictures. Even if the film itself wasn't named, the opportunity alone was incredible.
"Shindo, that's amazing!" she said, a smile forming. "After searching all day yesterday, you finally found something!"
Shindo exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "I can't believe I didn't see this last night. It must have been buried under the other listings. But this-this could be my chance."
He sat back, scanning the listing again as if memorizing every word. It was simple and to the point: Seeking skilled photographer for major film project. Experience preferred but not required. Apply in person at Toho Studios.
"I have to go there today," he declared. "If I wait, someone else might take the position."
Eriko nodded in agreement. "You should. A studio job like this could lead to so many opportunities."
She fastened the last button on her blouse and grabbed her bag. "I have to head to work now, but you should get ready and go as soon as you can. First impressions matter."
Shindo grinned, folding the newspaper with renewed determination. "I will. This is it, Eriko. I can feel it."
As Eriko stepped out into the bustling Tokyo streets, Shindo remained behind, his heart pounding with excitement. For the first time since arriving in the city, things were starting to fall into place.
Little did he know, this job would lead him down a path far more terrifying than he could ever imagine.
Eriko walked briskly through the busy streets of Tokyo, the morning rush already in full swing. The scent of fresh bread from a nearby bakery mixed with the exhaust of passing cars as she made her way to the train station. Despite her usual focus on the day ahead, her thoughts lingered on Shindo.
