Author's Note: Welcome aboard newcomers, and welcome everyone to another Saturday night. Enjoy!

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xXx

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Date Posted: 4/10/2021

Trigger Warnings: Language, description of video game violence, and references to assault and sexual assault…all indirect and no actions described.

The Way Forward - Chapter 29: What Next?

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Saturday, July 2:

Shizue's Wing, Suoh Mansion #1:

The last thing I must do before I can break for lunch is change the linens on Suoh-sama's bed and give her new towels. Fortunately, the laundry was on time today.

I knocked on her bedroom door, but there was no response. I paused for a minute then tried again.

"Suoh-sama?"

Still no answer. Perhaps she's in her bath.

"Suoh-sama, I'm coming in with new linens."

I walked quietly towards the bed and around to the side she sleeps on.

"Suoh-sama!"

I dropped the linens and ran.

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xXx

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Morinozuka Library:

"Haruhi-chan, may I speak with you for a minute?"

"Akira-san," she stood and bowed her head. I believe I still slightly intimidate her, and my remark last night over dinner didn't help that. "Of course. Please join me." She didn't sit until I did.

I looked at the books covering the table. "Greek pottery?"

"My art history class. It's more difficult than I thought." I could tell by her tone that hurt to admit. She's too independent.

"Please let Umeko or me know if there are any resources you need to assist your studies. We want you to succeed and wish to help in any way we can."

"Thank you, Akira-san. I'll keep that in mind."

Perhaps a trip to Greece? It may be too late to plan that. What would be her unit after that? Italian? I'll speak with Umeko.

"Have you thought about what we discussed last night regarding financing your company?"

She swallowed hard, and her cheeks dusted a slight pink. From embarrassment? "Yasuchika is my last remaining shareholder. He offered to loan me the money under a bank's terms. I accepted."

Yasuchika? Just how much money does my nephew have?

"I see."

"It's not that I don't appreciate the investment fund you gave me," she quickly reassured me, her words spilling out of her mouth. "There are advantages to accepting Yasuchika's loan. Since it's a formal loan, it will positively impact my company's credit. He will also earn the interest, rather than a Suoh bank."

I sighed. I'm not going to change her mind, and she is keeping it in the family. It will have to do. "Alright. Please know you can come to me for any business advice."

"Thank you, Akira-san."

Haruhi-chan leaned back in her chair and sipped her tea as I hesitated on my next subject. "University is less than a year away. What are your plans?"

"I intend to apply to Todai and study pre-law." I watched her nervously chew on her bottom lip. "I will be of legal age then so I will apply for a scholarship."

"Haruhi-chan," I tried to soften both my gaze and my tone, "in the guardianship contract we signed with your father, the Morinozuka's are financially responsible for your university and law school."

"I realize that, but I didn't want to burden you."

Independent. I shook my head. "It's no burden. It's an honor to help such a promising mind flourish. Besides," I laced my fingers and put my hands on the table, "you won't be eligible for a scholarship because the contract has been officially filed with the courts."

"Oh." She hung her head, staring at her notebook. Then her head shot up, "I'll pay for it with the investment account. You and Umeko-san have already done so much. That fund will more than cover it."

I've never had to work so hard to get someone to take money. "That fund is for you, not your education. If you wish to start your own law firm after you graduate, you can use it. We will pay for your university, just like we will pay for Takashi's and Satoshi's. It is our responsibility and privilege." Unfortunately, she flinched ever so slightly at my harder tone. I didn't want to do that, but I will be understood.

"Thank you. It is greatly appreciated."

"Haruhi-chan, I was wondering…Oh, Akira, I wasn't expecting to find you here."

I turned to see my wife in the doorway, dressed for an outing. "Umeko, Haruhi-chan and I were discussing her university plans and business financials."

"Good. I hope everything is straightened out." She walked around the table and put her hand on Haruhi-chan's shoulder. "I assume you're applying to Todai. You have plenty of time to decide if you wish to live in the dorms or here at home. Takashi decided to live here because of his training, and Mitsukuni's living at home for an uninterrupted supply of cake."

Haruhi-chan snorted and smiled. "Thank you, Umeko-san. I'll think about it." She turned to me, and I nodded.

"Now, I came in here to drag you along on a shopping trip. I'm sure you want some new clothes. I know I do."

"That's not necessary. I have more than I need."

"Need is not want, Haruhi-chan. Besides, you need beach clothes for your trip."

I allowed myself to smile as Umeko practically dragged her out of the library.

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xXx

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Phone call between Kyoya and Tamaki:

Tamaki: "Kyoya, I'm surprised to hear from you."

Kyoya: "The hospital alerted me to your grandmother being admitted. I wanted you to know that I've requested the best doctors in Japan for her."

Tamaki: "Thanks. That means a lot." I cleared my throat. It's been a long day. "The maid found her collapsed in her bedroom this morning. So far, the doctors really aren't telling us much. She hasn't woken up yet."

Kyoya: "I haven't looked at her records. May I ask what's wrong?"

Tamaki: He doesn't know? Very un-Kyoya like. "Cancer. Advanced. She's denied treatment."

Kyoya: "I'm sorry to hear that."

Tamaki: "I think this is why she finally formally named Father her heir."

Kyoya: "Probably." Selfish, proud woman. How she could let the Suoh empire hang by a thread like that, I'll never understand. I named Sota my heir long before I took over. "I know you're busy. Please know that I'm here for you. Let me know if you need anything."

Tamaki: "Thanks, Kyoya. I appreciate it."

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xXX

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Texts Throughout the Day:

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Tanaki-san: We've gotten the results from the first 15 cans. So far, they all are our formula

Haruhi: Great. Please keep me informed.

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Kasanoda: Hey! We gonna look at those two small warehouses today?

Shinobu: Sure. Come over when you're ready. We'll go together and use your security

Kasanoda: See you in 30

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Mori: Are you coming?

Satoshi: Yeah. Keep your shirt on. Be there soon.

Mori: Good. We're running then sparring.

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Naoko: Yuki, please text back. Please!

Yuki: Your number has been blocked.

Naoko: I thought you were my friend!

Yuki: Your number has been blocked.

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Haruhi: Help! Umeko-san's buying out the store. Do I really need all this stuff for our trip?

Renge: Yes.

Haruhi: You don't even know what she's buying

Renge: I know, but I trust her. Calm down and enjoy shopping

Haruhi: You know I can't do that

Renge: Do it for her. I'm sure she's always wanted a daughter

Haruhi: But 4 bikinis?

Renge: Yes. And shoes to match and coverups

Haruhi: whatever

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Hikaru: You going to Neon tonight?

Satoshi: headed into training session now. Not sure yet

Hikaru: Let me know. Kaoru needs to unwind

Satoshi: ok

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Akito: How about studying tomorrow?

Yuki: Good idea. English paper due Monday. Where?

Akito: Med school library

Yuki: Everyone there thinks I'm your little sister or you're a cradle robber

Akito: Suggestions?

Yuki: Public library

Akito: That works. Pick you up at 11? We'll go out to lunch first.

Yuki: See you then

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xXx

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Sunday, July 3:

Strip Club, Tokyo:

"This place is a dump." Why did I decide to keep these clubs? Maybe there's something I can change them into that will still keep the women employed? Something less sleezy.

"I've already drawn up a list of improvements that will bring it up to code and lift the clientele," my lawyer, Jinno-san, said.

"Have you done that for all of them?" At least he's efficient.

"It's a standard list with everything I could think of. I'm hoping not all of them would need everything."

"Email me a copy. I'm not as optimistic as you after seeing this one."

"Me either."

There was a smell in here that was hard to identify. Mix of leather, smoke, booze, and sweat. And maybe something else. Place needed sanitizing.

"Let's get this over with."

He led me to the office, and we started on the paperwork. Nothing's filed. Fucking stacks everywhere. Ended up sorting it into piles on the stage. I grabbed a couple security to help.

"Himura-sama, you need to see this."

"Now what?"

He handed me several large envelopes, and I pulled the stuff out of the first one. "Mother fucker!" I dumped all the pictures on an empty spot on stage. "Find these cameras and the feeds. Now!"

"Well, that's certainly a liability issue," Jinno-san mumbled, looking at the spread of pictures. Pictures of naked women who obviously didn't know they were being photographed. Looked like the dressing room. Then there were the ones of them having sex.

"Recognize any of the men?" He looked closely but shook his head. "Shit." I scooped them up and stuffed them back in the envelopes. "I'll go through these. I don't want anyone looking at these women that doesn't have to."

He nodded and looked relieved. Good.

"Are there headshots or clothed pics of the women? I'll match these up."

"There should be something around here in these files. If not, their website probably has something."

"Take all the websites down. Put up something that says 'reopening soon under new management'."

For their legitimate businesses, the Sendo Syndicate sure did mix in some dirt. We don't do that.

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Going through the paperwork took longer than anticipated. Not sure why we don't learn from experience. Shinobu-sama's main security force had the place locked down, so I helped with the sorting.

"Shinobu-sama, now that I've seen the type of paperwork here, I recommend sending a security team to all the other clubs. They can look for cameras, take pictures, and box the paperwork to bring back to the Compound."

She pulled out a file and thought for a minute. "Alright, but not the ones in Ritsu's area. He deserves to be there. We'll do those together next week. Thanks, Kono."

I nodded and started coordinating. I'll give a briefing when we get back and assign teams. Two should be able to handle the rest.

"Here's a list of contact information for all the other clubs." She compared it to the list in her file. "Fuck. There's one on here we didn't know about." I heard her scrambling through her file and lots of mumbling under her breath. Our syndicate members have definitely taught her a long list of swear words. That last one was in Korean.

"It's not on any of the paperwork from the main Sendo offices."

I looked over her shoulder to get the address. "I'll send some guys over to shut it down and hold it for us."

"No. Leave some guys here to finish up. I'll go with you."

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xXx

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Lounge, Morinozuka Estate:

The Morinozuka's and Haninozuka's were polite when we arrived, but the Hitachiin's were cold and bordering on rude.

This morning I had another talk with Naoko and found out more details. I'm doubting her story more and more. There are too many inconsistencies. Almost as if she's making it up as she goes along. I tried to tell my husband, but he won't listen. In his eyes, our daughter can do no wrong. I wish he wouldn't lose his temper today, but I'm not holding out much hope.

As we settled into our seats, I looked around the lovely room. Its decorated more traditionally than ours, but I would expect that from the Morinozuka's. Their family has been around for hundreds of years.

"Now, can you clarify exactly what you are accusing our daughter of doing?" I did my best to hide my exasperation.

"She purposefully hit a tennis ball into our ward, Fujioka Haruhi's face causing significant damage." Morinozuka-san handed a picture to my husband. I leaned over to see it. It was much worse than Naoko described.

"She's also accused my son of leading her on, promising to marry her when he did no such thing."

"And Friday, Fujioka Haruhi opened her locker only to have these tennis balls spill out." Morinozuka-san nodded to a maid. She brought a large, clear bag full of balls and set them on the table in front of us. They all had things written on them.

My husband flushed in anger. This meeting will not go well.

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xXx

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Private Suite, Ootori Hospital:

Mother still hasn't woken up, despite the doctors assuring us she would. I think they're holding back the worst of it from us.

This time, we weren't able to get to the press fast enough and requests for information have flooded the hospital public relations offices, not to mention the Suoh main office and my Ouran office. 'No comment' is all they're getting out of anyone. But because the news leaked, her room is full of flowers and gifts. Tamaki suggested flowers from strangers or unimportant people be donated to public hospital patients. More of Haruhi-chan's influence.

"Father?" Tamaki's voice warbled. I looked up to see him staring at her. "Do you think it would be alright to hold her hand?"

"It would be fine, Tamaki. The doctor's said she might be able to hear us. Why don't you tell her about the last several shows at the gallery? The one's she's missed."

He told her about the choir that performed last week and the origami artist that held a demonstration that many middle school level children attended. The upcoming play sounds interesting. I'll take her if she's recovered enough.

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xXx

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Unknown Strip Club, Tokyo:

"Shinobu-sama, something about this place isn't right. It concerns me that this address wasn't on the main list."

Her eyes narrowed, and her fists clenched. She's as worried as I am. "Deploy security as you see fit, Kono. Keep all exits monitored and don't let any of the employees leave but separate the women."

I organized the guys while she turned to Jinno-san. "You might want to sit in the car until we get this inspected."

"Plausible deniability." She nodded. "Alright. Come get me when it's clear."

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Kono and the guys hit it hard and fast. I followed at the rear. One of these days he's got to let me up front. How am I ever going to get experience back here?

The women were quickly and politely escorted to their dressing rooms and told they could change into street clothes. All the male employees were kept behind the bar.

"Nice place."

"Yeah. Much better."

"Himura-sama, Kono-san, there's a door we can't open."

We followed him back to a solid metal door obviously locked from the inside. "The place is surrounded?"

"Yes. All exits covered."

"Get it open. I don't care how. Blow it if you have to."

I stepped back into the manager's office while the guys set whatever charges they were using to get the door open. As much as they might want a big bang, they'll set the smallest they need to get the job done. I started digging through the paperwork.

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We blew the hinges, and the door fell inside. Two of my guards grabbed the fat guy sitting in a small office right inside the door.

Even with guns in his face, he was screaming, "What the fuck? You have no right!" A strong punch to the gut shut him up.

I looked down the hall. Four doors on each side and one at the end of the hall. All barred from the outside.

Fuck.

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"Open it."

Kono wanted the lawyer here when we opened the doors. Jinno-san and I braced ourselves.

I had no words. For a second what I saw didn't register. I felt like I was under water. Like I couldn't breathe. Is this what they mean by 'seeing red'?

Her scream broke me out of my trance, and with a feral growl, I ran into the room.

Her eyes were terrified and hopeful, and her face swelled with bruises. I ripped the bastard off her with my bare hands and threw him to the floor. She can't be older than I am. I frantically looked for a blanket or something to cover her with, but there was nothing but the sheet on the bed. It will have to do.

"Kono!" I pointed to the asshole on the ground then at her handcuffs. Security came in and ziptied his hands and feet while Kono tried his key. It worked, and she fell into my arms sobbing.

The room was disgusting. Concrete floor with a drain in the middle? What the fuck is that for? Only thing in here is the bed and a chair. No windows and the door locks from the outside. Small closet only had hangers with the bastard's clothes on it. There's nothing in here for her to wear. Nothing.

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Two hours later, and the cops have only begun evidence collection. Jinno-san sat with them as they interviewed the strippers and the bartenders. The manager and that guy behind the door had already been taken down to the station.

From my seat at the bar, I'd watched all nine women from the back being taken out by ambulance. Two were unconscious, obviously drugged into submission. All were dehydrated and malnourished. All had bruises if not open wounds on their wrists from the handcuffs. All had multiple injuries on their bodies. Their road to recovery will be long and hard.

When we called Kasanoda-sama's police contact, Onaga-san, he brought in several different departments and organizations who know how to deal with all this shit.

Trafficking. Fucking Human Trafficking.

It took three of us to hold Shinobu-sama back from that fat asshole at the beginning of the hallway. She was pure rage. I let her get in a couple swings before pulling her off, but I'm sure she would have killed him if she continued. We found cameras in all the rooms that were linked to his laptop. The cop tech guys will take it from there, but I won't be surprised if they find they were streaming that shit. Jinno-san and I practically sat on her until all the bastards from the back were gone. From the look on cops' faces, I could tell they wanted to let her lose on them. The only reason I didn't kill them myself was because I was sitting on Shinobu-sama.

The National Public Safety Commission and Lighthouse took care of the women in the back, three of which are only girls. They stayed with them through the on-site medical treatment and rode in the ambulances with them. Shinobu-sama grilled the head representative from Lighthouse for thirty minutes, making sure they were qualified to help the victims. They're a well-established non-profit that rescues and helps sex trafficking victims. She let them do their job and turned back to the customers.

Absolute scum. While we were waiting for the police to arrive, we ziptied their hands and feet and lined them up in the hallway. Naked. She hit one of them with a kick to the head before we stopped her.

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Kono's Flashback

"Shinobu-sama, you have to let the cops deal with them."

"Fuck that. They can take the leftovers." She lunged again and managed to rake her fingernails down one of their faces before we pulled her back. "Dammit Kono. Let me go. You know they deserve as much pain as I can give them."

We pulled her up the hall and stood in her way. The switchblade was in her hand before I saw her take it out of her pocket. "Move! I'm going to castrate all of them."

"We've already called the cops. Do you want to go to prison because of these assholes?" I yelled in her face. She must snap out of this before everyone gets here.

"FUCK!" she screamed as she spun around and put the knife into the wall up to the hilt.

I let her kick and smash a table and chairs into kindling, but it didn't calm her down much.

End Flashback

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"Himura-sama, the police want you, Kono-san, and me to come with them to the station for interviews and statements. I've called your father, and he'll meet us there."

"Fine. Get me out of here before I start ripping the place down brick by brick."

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xXx

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Game Room, Morinozuka Estate:

"I'm worried."

"Taka, you're always worried."

Satoshi's right. If it's not Haruhi, it's Mitsukuni, work, competitions, or a dozen other things. Aren't my 20's supposed to be fun?

"What are you worried about now?"

"Haruhi." I said her name quietly, hoping not to draw her attention. "With Watanabe and the problems at Petto Chinmi, I don't want to leave."

"Chika and I can keep an eye on her, and the twins have her in every class."

"Not art history."

"Renge-senpai's in there. She won't let anything happen."

That's when Mitsukuni called us over to the group. "Have you all heard about Tama-chan's grandmother?" Some of us shook our heads. "The media doesn't have much, but she's in the hospital."

"Should we call Tamaki-senpai?" Haruhi asked. "Maybe we can help him."

"I'm sure he's busy with her. Maybe tomorrow?" I'm sure the last thing Tamaki and his Father need is this group at the hospital.

"Let's play Hell." Hikaru headed over to the game cabinet for the cards. "I need to do something with this anxious energy."

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"Shit!"

"Haruhi, get off the damn table!"

"Beat you, Kaoru!"

The language and craziness shocked Akira when we walked into the room. Even our Satoshi said 'damn'. Yuzuha wasn't phased and blew a loud whistle for their attention.

"The Watanabe's just left. Come over to the sitting area, and we'll tell you what happened."

The Hitachiin twins, all four brothers/cousins, and Haruhi-chan joined the six of us parents. I know the two most volatile here, namely Hikaru and Satoshi, will likely not be satisfied with our decisions.

Akira went straight to the heart of the matter. "They've agreed to have her assessed by a psychiatrist and will have it done by Wednesday. If there are mental issues, she'll be removed from Ouran and tutored at home while getting help." Nods and smiles from most of them. Takashi and Chika held their composure and didn't react. "They're doing that because we backed them into a corner. Neither parent believes she needs help."

"After everything she did?" I gave Satoshi a quelling look for interrupting his father. "Sorry, Father."

"Yes, after everything she did, because they don't believe the more concerning parts of our side." He turned to Haruhi-chan, "Are you positive you don't want to press charges?"

"Yes." Her voice was small but firm.

"Very well. If her assessment shows no mental issues, we have several options."

Yuzuha broke in, "The first of which is to marry that little tart off to someone in another country." One of the twins smirked, but the other seemed hesitant. I assume that one is Kaoru. She turned to her sons. "It's for the best. We get her out of our lives, and she gets what she wants—married."

"Was that discussed?" Takashi asked. I'm surprised to find him as interested in this as he is, but he does have a soft spot for Haruhi-chan.

"No. We're keeping the options to ourselves until the assessment comes back. It's best to surprise them. Should be less protesting that way."

"What made them agree to the assessment if they don't believe she has a problem?"

"The tennis balls in your locker. They had to admit that behavior isn't appropriate."

Silence took over as we all followed our own thoughts. Personally, I don't believe there's a mental problem. I think she's just a spoiled little girl who wants what she wants, even if she'll throw it away in a month.

"What happens on Wednesday?"

"We'll meet again and decide what to do." Haruhi-chan tried to hold back a wince. "Don't worry. Nothing will happen between now and then. We have their word."

"Won't do any good if she's nuts." That had to be Hikaru mumbling under his breath. I agree with him.

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xXx

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Himura Compound:

"Why the hell didn't you call me! You know I would have held Kono down so you could kill them."

My smile came out more like a grimace. I do love this idiot. Who else would help me kill people?

"Didn't want you involved, Asshole. I kept everyone there for the cops. Too serious not to." I ran my fingers through my hair trying to get the tangles out. "Did you really want to sit in the station with lawyers for hours answering questions?"

"Fuck no, but I would have done it for you." He smirked and grabbed my wrists. "You're fucking that up. Let me." Then he turned me around and started to braid my hair. What the absolute fuck?

I glanced at Mom, and she smiled. How could she possibly get anything romantic out of today? I spent my day up to my chin in the scum of the earth.

"What did the police say?" Kasanoda-sama asked. We'd called them after we finally made it home. Ritsu, his dad, and Tetsuya are sitting with me, my parents, Kono, and Jinno-san in our library. Only difference between this and a stuffy business meeting is everyone's drinking. A lot.

I nodded to my lawyer, telling him to answer. I've done enough talking for today. "The investigation could take months. After they were finished with their questioning, we took them to all the clubs where they confiscated all the paperwork and sealed the buildings. There was no evidence that this was going on at any of the remaining clubs. Your contact assured us that they would eliminate them quickly." They're also letting me handle the pictures of the women we found. I think it's payback for me not killing the fuckers at the other club.

"They understood that the Himura Syndicate just took possession?"

"Yes. There's no issue of Himura Syndicate involvement. Everything will be tracked back to the original owners or employees."

Kasanoda-sama gave one hard nod and finished his glass of sake. "I knew our contact was a good man." He poured his third.

"The victims have all been admitted to the hospital. Lighthouse will see to their care and recovery. They have experience."

Too much fucking experience. No one should have experience in this. This shit should never happen. I'm no naive little girl. I know the world sucks. I know other syndicates are involved in this. I know Dad dabbled in this shit before I was born. We don't talk about it, but it makes me sick that it took him having a daughter to realize women are people. When I found out about that a few years ago, I didn't talk to him for weeks. He wasn't my hero anymore. I respected his decision to quit, but…

"Will you relax, you crazy chick." Ritsu started rubbing my shoulders. "You're getting tenser."

He's right. "Yeah, OK." I took several deep, long breaths and focused on relaxing my neck and shoulders. Then I finished my beer. He handed me another and got one for himself.

"What's next?"

"We wait." Jinno-san closed his notebook and leaned back in his chair. I heard his back pop. We're all too tense. "All clubs will remain closed until they finish investigating them. Himura-sama," he glanced at me, "has arranged for all the performers to continue receiving salaries and estimated tips until reopening."

"Good idea, Bu," Ritsu whispered in my ear.

"Not their fault they work for dicks," I mumbled back. "I didn't realize some of them would have kids."

"Once the clubs are released back to us, we'll be ready to move on remodeling and rebranding."

"You still want to keep them?" Mother asked me. It was my project.

"Not sure," I sighed. "I could turn them into something more respectable or just upgrade them to 'Gentlemen's Clubs'. Maybe close some of them down and concentrate on those in the best locations. Make them members only or something. Not sure yet."

"Well," Dad said, "you have plenty of time to figure that out."

"And I will not be keeping the one from today. After the cops are through with that, I'm going to level the lot and sell the land."

"Another good idea," Ritsu mumbled. I nodded. Looks like Dad agrees too.

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When her mom called, Pops and I rushed over. I expected Bu to be torn to pieces again, like with the animals. Not even close. She was on fire. Tired, but furious.

After this crazy meeting was over, I asked, "What do you want to do now? I know you don't feel like doing that stupid biology homework."

"Fuck no." I watched her bring her beer bottle up to those lips and chug it. "Something active." She slammed the empty bottle on the table. "Something aggressive."

That's how we ended up playing basketball with seven of her guys (Tetsuya joined us). Full teams, full court. She'd already thrown so many elbows the guys had resorted to cups. Gotta give them credit. They all knew her mood and were up in her face just so she could give it back to them. We're all going to bed with bruises tonight.

And Bu will know what they did for her. It should help a little.

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xXx

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Monday, July 4:

Lunch, Ouran Dining Hall:

"Renge, how's Tamaki-senpai doing?"

"He's tired and worried. His grandmother collapsed on Saturday and they rushed her to the hospital. He called me while they were in the waiting room but asked me not to join him. He wasn't sure what the news would be. I went on Sunday and sat with him. She's not doing well."

"I'm sorry to hear that. I know they were repairing their relationship." Haruhi's more sad than I'd expect her to me. Wonder why?

"They've made huge progress. He was looking forward to them getting closer."

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Tamaki-senpai might lose his grandmother.

I know how hard it is to lose a family member. Mom was hard enough, losing her so young, but losing Dad just five months ago still feels raw. Sometimes like I'm being drug across broken glass and other times like I'm in a fog.

The Katayama's wrote me again, inviting me for the weekend. Maybe I should give them the chance. They're the only family I have left, and I shouldn't squander the opportunity.

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xXx

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Petto Chinmi:

I walked into my office, closed the door behind me, and just sat. I'd gotten a text from Tanaki-san as I was going into my therapy appointment. All the cans cleared. We've been selling the correct formula. He ordered the food back on the shelves.

Now what?

I can't even describe how relieved I am. I don't have to recall the food. I don't have to go public telling everyone the company's been selling basically filler. That would have ended Petto Chinmi. Gone. Bankrupt. All my employees out of work.

I feel like a wet noodle. Like I've been rung out. Like I could sleep for days. That worry and adrenaline flashed out of me, and I can hardly think.

All that's left is a new factory and a lawsuit. Neither of which I'm qualified to handle. I'm going to hand it all over to Tanaki-san and the lawyers and refuse to feel guilty about it. I will, however, go to the meeting tomorrow with the new law firm and ask to be copied on everything. Can't waste the learning opportunity.

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xXx

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Hitachiin Software Company:

"Die you bastard. DIE!"

With everyone's attention on Hikaru testing the new zombie game, I leaned against the doorframe and watched. Sasaki-san created zombie rats that spawned from toilets. Shaking my head, I marveled at the creativity of young minds. That's why I have more interns working in game development than anywhere else.

"Shit. Who started spawning zombie bunnies from trees?" one of them yelled as Hikaru started picking them up by the ears and decapitating them.

"I did." Another three down. "Got the idea from a Senpai of mine. He loves cute and cuddly rabbits. Made me think of the rabbit from 'Monty Python', and I went for it." The older Haninozuka kid. Will Hikaru tell him about this?

"Trees?"

"Why not? Who'd think they'd jump down on you."

"Anything else we should know?"

"I left the stapler in."

Stapler? Young minds.

"We need to come up with something players can actually kill with it."

"Why? It's a perfect decoy. It's so odd they're expecting it has a use."

"Yeah, but it's a great weapon for the apocalypse. The ammo is everywhere, and it doesn't need any power."

"OK, smart ass. What would you do?"

"Zombie newspapers." They all snorted or laughed. Sometimes creativity leads to stupid ideas.

"How about we turn it into a staple gun. Those staples are longer. Make it so they can kill the human zombies."

"That's too easy. Everyone would stop hunting for bullets."

"Yeah, alright. We stick to the regular stapler. It should work on the rats."

I soon tuned them out. Rats, staplers, rabbits? I'll wait for the finished product before I judge it. I have no idea what people want out of these games.

Hikaru finished his rabbit invasion and moved on to real zombies. He's come so far. After his first week here, I didn't think he was going to make it. He missed Kaoru and the host club so much. Now he's eager to get here. He thinks up ideas and takes coding classes online at home.

Both my sons have taken great strides in their future careers (if Hika wants to continue this). I can tell them apart, and they are starting to look and dress differently, more like their differing personalities.

Now all we need to do is solve this Watanabe crap.

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xXx

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Elite Shopping Area, Tokyo:

"You're not showing that much, Fuyumi-san."

"And you're being kind. I've been hiding it well, but I have an Ootori BOD meeting Friday, and I'm only going to get bigger. And both of us need new clothes for the trip to French Polynesia. Sota's so excited. Thanks for asking us to chaperone."

"No problem. With so many couples going, it's for the best."

"What do you think of this one?"

.

After buying out the maternity store, it's time for the real reason I brought Yuki-chan along.

"Let's check in here. I'm going to need a new sapphire necklace, bracelet, and earrings to go with all that blue I just bought."

I pulled her into one of the best jewelry stores in Tokyo and got straight to business. Finding the sapphire jewelry was easy. When they offered to clean my engagement ring while we shopped, it was the perfect opportunity.

"Umeji bought my engagement ring himself. I always wished I had an emerald cut like that one." I pointed out a huge diamond and smiled. She'd taken the bait. She was looking at all of them, and I've always loved Umeji's ring.

.

If Fuyumi thinks she's fooled me, her pregnancy hormones are really messing with her brain. But this is my opportunity to pick the ring I want. I'll choose three or four and let Akito pick from them. I like the idea of him having some input. It is for the rest of our lives.

.

This will make Akito happy. I've got four ideas for him to choose from. He wanted to pick it out himself, but after everything she's been through, he knew Yuki-chan should at least help with this decision.

They're perfect for each other.

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xXx

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Ootori Hospital:

Grandmother is fading in and out of consciousness, and Father is out in the hall with the doctor. I know what he's telling him. It's obvious. It's also not fair. Our relationship was finally getting better. I wanted to get to know her, hear the stories of her past, learn about my grandfather. Now all that will be lost to me. Father doesn't like to talk about his childhood. Based on mine, I'm sure it was unpleasant.

"Eisuke." I turned from the window to see her eyes open. "Eisuke." She's been calling for her husband, my grandfather, but not very often. Usually when she's waking up.

"Grandmother, it's me, Tamaki."

Her eyes focused, and I saw the recognition in her eyes. "Tamaki."

"Yes, Grandmother."

"I'm in pain. Go get the doctor."

"Right away."

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xXx

.

Dinner, Shido Estate:

"Look! Look! I wrote my name in calligraphy." Sota held up a large piece of paper with shaky, black swipes. "Sensi says it's good for a beginner like me."

"And it is, Sota-kun," Akito reassured him. "You're much better than I was when I started."

"Really," he's eyes grew huge. I didn't expect him to look up so much to Akito, but they've been spending a lot of time together.

"Really."

"Darling, I saw the maid putting away clothes from dozens of bags. I assume you went shopping?"

"I did." My hands fell to the small swelling. "It's overdue. I needed things for the BOD meeting coming up and the trip. I took Yuki-chan with me, and we had a wonderful time."

He kissed my cheek. "I'm happy you found some. You've been mentioning how tight your pants were getting, but I've enjoyed seeing you wearing dresses more." Dammit, he's going to make be blush and cry.

"Did you get me anything, Mom?"

"No, Sweetheart. Later this week you and I will go for new clothes, shoes, and toys. How does that sound?"

"Yea! I can't wait!" Of course, he can't. I'll be hearing about it every five minutes until we go. I'll regret bringing it up.

"Did you find clothes for the trip?" Akito asked Yuki-chan. I'm not sure, but I think he's proposing there.

Yuki-chan blushed. "I did. New swimsuits, shorts and tops, and several pairs of sandals. I just wish we didn't have an art history test the day we go back to Ouran." She frowned down at her food. "Haruhi, Renge, and I have to bring everything so we can study." Her head lifted, and she took a sip of tea. "Haruhi didn't do well on the last test. It was the first time I'd ever scored higher than her. She was so upset."

"She can't get the high score every time."

"That's just it. She always has. She's even beat Kyoya-senpai's scores several times. And I know it wasn't for lack of studying. She worked hard but is having trouble. She's too literal and logical with the art."

"Perhaps we should go to Greece instead of the island."

"Renge tried, but she was adamant about not going. I'm not sure it would help, with all the good pictures and commentaries on the web and in our textbook."

"Well, we'll make sure to give you three the time you need. We'll be there for nine days."

"Seven."

"Wait, I thought we were leaving on Friday and coming back the next Sunday."

"No. Sorry if I gave you that impression. We were always leaving Monday and getting back Sunday morning. Haruhi has a photoshoot the Sunday before we leave and can't reschedule. It's for her company, and they need to get the new ads out quickly. They've already been delayed by a horrible advertising agency and had to find a new one."

"That's too bad."

"But we also have to wait for Chika to come back from Dubai. It's his last world cup before the Olympics. The Japanese karate team is decided that Sunday."

.

Before he joined Yuki-chan and Sota out at the pool, I pulled Akito aside. "Here," he took the paper I offered, "these are the names of the four rings she liked. The owner wrote them down. I'm confident you can choose any one of the four, and she'll like it."

"Did you get a ring size?"

"Right here," I pointed.

"Thanks. Looks like I've got a ring to buy."

"When are you popping the question?"

That smirk. So much like Kyoya's. "You'll just have to wait and see."

.

xXx

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Tuesday, July 5:

Lunch, Ouran Dining Hall:

"Habitat for Humanity? Haven't we done that one before?"

Don't these people realize that charities continually need money? Do they think they solved everyone's problems with their last donations?

Chika's off in his own world staring at his tablet, so I answered. "There are always more houses that need to be built. As people lose their jobs for various reasons and become homeless, Habitat's there for them. There are also natural disasters almost every day: flooding, landslides, earthquakes, fires. When homes are damaged, someone needs to help fix them."

"Oh. I hadn't thought of that."

I collected dozens of envelopes for Chika and thanked everyone.

What is he doing over there?

.

One of the girls donating asked about tax breaks. The current setup doesn't allow for that. Most of the donations I get are cash. They get deposited and I write the check to the charity from 'The Students of Ouran' account I opened. The checks I receive are usually made out to 'cash' so they can't be traced back to the doner either.

As I've been giving more and more, the tax break issue has also come up from my accountant.

We need a better solution.

.

xXx

.

International Law Firm:

"I believe we can help you with this situation, Fujioka-sama."

To say I was surprised when I Googled her is an understatement. A seventeen-year-old owner of a company that's being defrauded by their factory in Korea. That's a first for this firm. Well, the seventeen-year-old is.

Her lawyer, Sato-san, went through their contract, the evidence he's gathered, what clauses he used to shut down the factory, and their expectations. This will not be cheap.

"This won't be simple and won't be quick. Our Seoul branch will spearhead the investigation and lawsuits. They'll need to hire an outside investigative agency. Further tests made need to be done on the food sold in Seoul. It will be a lot of man-hours." I looked at her and tried to not see my daughter sitting there. "We'll need a retainer of one-hundred-million yen (~one million dollars) by tomorrow."

She swallowed hard but let no other sign of surprise show. "I also want your help finding and reviewing the contract for a new manufacturing facility for our canned dog food. Because of all this, I want an investigation of the factories that produce our dry dog food and both cat foods."

That's even more work, time, and money. "If you wish us to take on those responsibilities as well, I must ask for double the amount of the retainer."

I watched her and her lawyer have a silent conversation with their eyes, then she turned back to us. "Agreed. I can have it wired or messenger over a certified check." I handed her our banking information. "Thank you."

She leaned back in her chair, and I saw a smirk flash before the smile settled on her face. "These are my conditions. First, I want to be copied on everything, and I mean everything. I won't have time to attend meetings, and I'd be in the way anyway. Please copy my assistant on everything, and she'll make sure I see it.

"Second, Tanaki-san and Sato-san are responsible for these issues on our end. They speak for me." We nodded. That's preferrable since she doesn't have the experience.

"And third, I want everything thrown at them that's possible. Criminal charges, civil suits, everything. No one does this to Petto Chinmi, and I will allow no one to think I'm an easy target."

"Meeting those conditions will not be a problem, Fujioka-sama."

.

xXx

.

Dinner, Himura Syndicate:

"Are you fucking kidding me?" Shinobu screamed at me. "We find those girls on our property, and we're just walking away?"

As my daughter and only living child, I let her get away with a lot, but not taking that tone with me in front of another yakuza boss and his heir or our lawyers and security. I stood up, pointed to her chair, and told her to sit down in the hardest, most dangerous voice I could muster. She had the decency to look embarrassed.

"It is the best choice, leaving it up to the police. Neither syndicate here wants to involve themselves with that particular trade." Her eyes practically glowed with anger. She'll never forgive me for my past, but she will respect my role as the head of this syndicate. "I won't hear another word about it, understand?"

"Yes, Sir." Her jaw's clenched so tight, her teeth were grinding.

Ritsu's fidgeting in his seat drew my attention. He wanted to say something, but my glare stopped him. He's only seen me angry once when we ended Ronan. Ryuu stilled him with a hand on his arm.

"Now," I leaned back in my chair and crossed my legs, "where are we on everything else."

.

By now, my tea was cold. I set it down and listened to Bu report to her dad. All the pachinko parlors were finished and being sold. She's inspected all the love hotels, and her business manager is working up a budget to upgrade them.

I'm really pissed Pops won't let me quit school and work on syndicate stuff full time. Or my businesses. I get that I'd be the first to graduate, but who gives a shit? It's not going to help the business. I learned everything important from him already.

"Ritsu?"

I yanked myself out of my daydream and turned to Pops. "We're waiting on the strip clubs, obviously. There are two on our side of the line. All other properties on our side are finished. We cleared them all and either dumped them on a cheap sale or turned them over to your contact."

"That guy's going to get promoted over this." Pops gave an evil smirk. "Better for us."

"Yeah, but we'll need someone lower in the ranks after he's moved up."

"Already found and working them."

I nodded and continued my report. "The two reported weapons warehouses on the Himura side have been cleaned. Nothing much there. The last warehouse on the Himura side we'll clear Thursday evening. It's been checked for living things, but not gone through completely."

Now's the perfect time. "Pops, after that warehouse, I'm done with all the shit from the Sendo Syndicate. The neighborhoods have approved the community gardens and work will start next month on the Ouran urban forest. I need to concentrate on those."

He stared at me for at least half a minute. I counted. "Alright. Don't let it interfere with your schoolwork or Syndicate business that comes up."

"OK." I expected a harder fight. Bringing it up in front of Bu's Dad and security saved me, but I'll hear about it later.

"Ritsu," Junto-san got my attention, "Shinobu, you and your friends are going to an island in two weeks."

"Yes, Sir."

"Have fun but be appropriate with my daughter."

"Dad, give it a rest."

"I will, Junto-san." Maybe not entirely appropriate, but we'll see. Gotta figure out how to ask this crazy chick to marry me without having her laugh.

.

xXx

.

Naoko's Rooms, Watanabe Estate:

I don't agree with my husband. Naoko has acted inappropriately and needs to be corrected. I also don't agree with the Morinozuka's. She's not mentally ill.

That's why I'm here in her rooms. Right now, she's out on the courts having a tennis lesson, so I know I won't be disturbed. When I was her age, I had a hidden diary and box of mementos. I need to find hers.

Not under the bed. Not in her nightstand. Not in her desk. Probably her closet. It's huge, full, and a mess.

Ten minutes later, her face pasted on different Hitachiin clothing ads was staring at me. She'd covered the Fujioka girl's with her own. Then the bridal magazines with hers and Kaoru's faces.

Her fantasy has gone too far.

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xXx

.

Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Ouran High School Host Club. I also do not own, nor am I making any money from, the following: Olympics, Lego, Duplo, any real restaurant, business, artist, food product, or really anything else that exists. I do, however, own any original characters and the plot of this story.

Author's Note:

Not sure if you like them, but the 'Texts throughout the day' section is a good way for me to let you know what everyone's up to without having to write a bunch of filler scenes. With such a large cast, these types of things are sometimes the only way to catch you up without a long info dump. Let me know what you think.

Alright, I've been setting up human trafficking for a bunch of chapters. Knew I would be going there as soon as the yakuza war started. (Beancounter needs to stop hacking my outlines…JK) I'm sure they weren't the only one that saw this coming. I gave you a trigger warning. I hope it was enough, and I hope I didn't get into details you didn't need. I did some research but was too disgusted to really get into it. The National Public Safety Commission is the law enforcement agency in Japan that handles these things. Lighthouse is a real organization that helps the victims. I think it's safe to say that we'll see them at a Tuesday lunch soon, if Shinobu has anything to say about it.

My solution with Naoko might not be the best, but I hope you accept it. It will be in next week's chapter. As for this chapter, I was just setting it up. Also, thanks to Angelmoon1089 for the magazine idea. Totally fits.

I hope you all were able to picture Shinobu's guys happy that they could do something for her, even if it was just letting her beat them up. Both Ritsu and Bu have some amazing support.

Well, all the cans in Japan have the real dog food. That was always the plan. This arc was not meant to take over this story. I'll run it in the background, and it will pop up every so often.

Had fun writing the video game stuff. And Hikaru thinking of zombie rabbits because of Honey…hilarious. Should Honey find out?

Fuyumi/Yuki/Akito and the ring…seemed to fit them all and be a great piece of fluff in such a heavy chapter. Those two are quickly becoming my second fav pair to write, after Ritsu and Bu, of course.

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Next Chapter:

The last warehouse inspected…Ootori BOD Meeting…Friday date nights…

And a humongous surprise for Haruhi.

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