On February 22, the fifth episode of the popular Japanese drama series 相続探偵 (Inheritance Detective), aired on Nippon TV, featuring the character 灰江七生, portrayed by 赤楚衛二, as he navigates complex family dynamics arising from inheritance disputes.
This episode centers around the conflict stemming from the will of the late confectionery master 百万遍紘一, who left behind the iconic Kyoto confectionery shop, 鳳凰. His unusual will splits the family business, granting the brand name to the legitimate son, 正臣 (played by 小関裕太), and the production facilities to 野心 (白洲迅), the child from his affair. The will's phrasing insisted, “鳳凰のブランドは正臣に、作業場と売り場は野心に” (The brand of 鳳凰 is for 正臣, and the workshop and shop are for 野心), leading to significant tension and rivalry between the brothers.
Initially, both brothers seem to accept the terms, but as the story progresses, the realities of their newfound responsibilities come to light. 野心 launches his confectionery under the name 野心 but struggles without the prestigious brand identity, admitting, “金なんてなんとでもなる” (Money can be managed whatever way), highlighting his overconfidence amid financial woes.
Meanwhile, 正臣's 鳳凰べっかん thrives, capitalizing on its affordability and approachability, soon opening multiple branches. Despite his lack of culinary skills, 正臣’s business acumen surprises everyone, as his shop starts winning over customers with common sweets. 灰江 reflects on how significant the brand of 鳳凰 truly is—a lesson learned as he witnesses the contrasting fortunes of both shops.
Still, troubles mount for both camps. 正臣's success begins to decline as reviews note, “味が微妙” (the taste is mediocre), impacting his reputation. Knowing this, 朝永 (矢本悠馬) expresses regret over having found the real will, feeling responsible for the ensuing conflict and the brothers’ struggles.
The main plot thickens with 三富令子 (桜田ひより), who faces her turmoil as news of her mother’s emergency hospitalization reaches her. Despite this pressing issue, her complex feelings from their past prevent her from visiting as she recalls her father’s untimely demise three years earlier, due to complications surrounding medical accusations.
令子's storyline intertwines with 灰江's investigative efforts, as he is determined to resolve her family issues alongside the confectionery crisis. Listeners are drawn to her emotional plea when she cries out, “母を助けてください” (Please help my mother), illustrating her inner conflict as someone trapped between familial duty and her unresolved feelings.
Characters navigate their burdens, showcasing how personal and professional conflicts overlap and impact one another, building viewer anticipation for how 灰江 plans to mediate these crises. His action to bridge the estrangement between brothers and offer support to 令子 is poised to unravel yet more layers of mystery and resolution.
With its unique blend of comedy and drama, 相続探偵 draws audiences deeply with engaging narratives surrounding family and societal roles, leaving viewers eager for more revelations next week. The interplay between tradition, innovation, and personal growth promises to entice audiences as the series progresses.