Original: 陸王
A CEO struggling to maintain his small sock business risks the company's future with a new challenge — creating a line of running shoes.
It's another day at struggling tabi sock maker Kohazeya, their industry in decline. CEO Koichi Miyazawa looks for a new direction, learning more about running than he imagined. Meanwhile, a promising young athlete suffers a devastating setback -- will this be the spark of invention for Koichi?
Unable to bank on outside support, Kohazeya works on their new project. Koichi meets a mysterious materials engineer. Mogi gets a surprise gift.
Daichi struggles in his job hunt. Atlantis ponders Mogi and the new tabi runner. Prototyping is afoot at Kohazeya, but Koichi's money problems hit home.
Iiyama and Daichi have found Rikuoh's sole. Mogi is at a crossroads. Kohazeya benefits from an unexpected team change.
Internal strife hits Kohazeya as finances run tight. Will an unexpected move let them continue to work on Rikuoh? Daichi steps up to the plate in a pinch.
The 2018 Ekiden is on! One man steps back onto the stage, but another is making this his curtain call. Kohazeya faces new challenges in their fledgling shoe business.
Rikuoh's future may go up in smoke after an accident at Kohazeya. Iiyama must consider the future he wants for his material, while Koichi fears for the future of his company.
It's where the rubber meets the road now, with Team Kohazeya racing to find an investor. Koichi is forced to make a difficult choice, with the livelihoods of his employees in the balance. Atlantis pursues Mogi again.
Koichi continues to ponder Felix's offer, but is Atlantis making moves behind the scenes? Iiyama offers advice. Mogi struggles to regain his place. Daichi makes an important connection.
Koichi has rebuffed Felix, but Mr. Misono hasn't given up yet. Daichi has a breakthrough in his job search, but have his plans changed? All eyes are on Mogi at his return to the Toyohashi Marathon. A path opens up for Rikuoh.
