As to be expected, the funeral is a solemn affair, and there are many in attendance to pay respects to a man who had been a great business leader, a generous contributor to many important causes, and a loving and devoted father.

The occasion was also marked by the announcement of Michael Kaioh as the new head of Kaioh Enterprises. As the only son in the family, Michiru's younger brother had been groomed since early on to one day take over the company.

Michiru saw her brother only rarely, both of their busy schedules getting in the way of close contact. But she always enjoyed his company, and respected his opinions whether they were about personal or professional matters.

"Michi. Thank you again for coming so quickly the other night, and for helping me make all the arrangements."

"Of course, Mikey. What are big sisters for?"

"Man...I miss him already."

"Me too." Michiru's tears have been exhausted by this point, and she is at the stage where she is starting to accept the reality of the situation.

"Hey...are you still with that photographer?" Michael asks, always happy to tease his sister about her love life.

"Ah, no. Mamoru and I were never together. Just friends."

"Riiiight. What about that cute girl in your office? Did you take her home yet?"

"Mikey! God." But Michiru can't help laughing when she hears her brother's giggling. "I've actually...been seeing someone special lately."

"Oh really? Poor fellow. Or gal."

"Something like that. I don't think you would approve, though."

"Try me. I'm not as old fashioned as Pop, you know."

Michiru hesitates, then bites the bullet. "I've been seeing Haruka Tenoh."

Michaels' face instantly changes. "You better be pulling my leg, Michi."

The aqua reporter is about to respond when she feels a gentle hand at the back of her elbow. She looks up to see Haruka, carefully attired in black, joining her.

Michael reaches out his hand. "Michael Kaioh. You must be the infamous Haruka Tenoh. My sister was just telling me about you two."

"Pleased to meet you. I'm so sorry for your loss," Haruka states, accepting the handshake.

"Thank you, Tenoh-san. But you know...it always warms my heart when I hear of a romance that overcomes all obstacles," Michael continues. "Isn't that right, you guys? I mean, who would have thought that Michi would lose her mind over the very person who's responsible for her father's death? What an inspiring story, really." With that, Michael gives Michiru a stern and disappointed look, turns away, and moves forward to greet other visitors waiting to pay their respects.

Looking shocked, Haruka gazes at Michiru and opens her mouth to speak. But Michiru puts a finger up to Haruka's lips, silencing her. Shaking her head and mouthing, "Later", the aqua woman continues to mix with her guests, as the tall blonde waits on the sidelines.