Nishioka is in a book store when he spots a salesman named Majime from Genbu Books doing a poor job. Meanwhile, the veteran dictionary editor Araki is searching for a successor as he prepares for retirement. Nishioka mentions his encounter with Majime. Araki heads to the sales department to meet this Majime.Upon meeting him, Araki sees Majime's potential and recruits him on the spot.

Spotting issues with a professor's manuscript, Nishoka and Majime propose amendments. Majime reaffirms that they need Nishioka. But Nishioka reassures Majime that he will always be there for him. A few days later, the professor is livid with the changes, and Nishioka goes to apologize. The professor is upset, but Nishioka manages to win him over. Nishioka and Majime go down their separate paths.

Thirteen years pass and a new employee Kishibe arrives. With a fashion magazine background, she wonders why she has been transferred here. The team throw her a welcome party. Majime tells her he thinks she's someone who values words. But she runs out of the restaurant saying she's not cut out for the job. Nishioka runs into her and assures her she is.The next day, Kishibe turns up ready to work.

Majime and Araki visit Matsumoto with an advanced copy of Daitokai. Matsumoto is pleased, but he tells them he has cancer. That spring, the team gets a call informing them of his death. Daitokai is completed, and they throw a party to celebrate. Araki reads a moving thank you letter from Matsumoto. Later, Majime reflects on Matsumoto's message as he walks with Kaguya, finding peace and solace.