Author's Note:

Welcome back to the 6th installment of "The Last Straw" series, or what has turned into the Ouran Soap Opera.

Drop a review – Dad and I would love to hear from you. I read every one of them to him. Makes his week.

For those of you in the USA, Fall back for daylight savings.

Some progress in finding the girls in this one. Hold on…

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xXx

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Date Posted: 11/5/2022

Trigger Warnings: Language, violence and trafficking discussed in the abstract (not graphic)

The Painful Truth - Chapter 6: Address or Map?

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Monday, September 26 (Continued):

Evening, Public Relations Conference Call:

Tsuzuki (Suoh PR Head): "This is a nightmare."

Kinoshita (Houshakuji PR Head): "And we aren't even doing the hard work."

Hara (Morinozuka PR Head): "It's taken on a life of its own. Never would I have thought someone would suggest she's been kidnapped because the PM told her secret government information at a charity ball."

Ando (Hitachiin PR Head): "Welcome to my world where even the most bizarre is considered."

Hara (Morinozuka PR Head): "I don't know how you do it."

Ando (Hitachiin PR Head): "The twins have given us plenty of practice."

Akabane (Every Woman PR Head): "Our main office is reporting an increase in sales."

Ando (Hitachiin PR Head): "There's no such thing as bad publicity."

Imamura (New On Okuri Head): I can't believe the minefield I stepped into on my first day, my first hour. "That supports the rumor that it's a publicity stunt. Attribute it to the ball. Some of it must be anyway."

Akabane (Every Woman PR Head): "Will do."

Hara (Morinozuka PR Head): "Are your fake accounts still posting?"

Ando (Hitachiin PR Head): "Yes, but it's like trying to hold back the ocean. The only thing that's going to stop this is either a statement from her that can be proven current or something bigger to drown it out."

Imamura (New On Okuri Head): "Bigger?"

Ando (Hitachiin PR Head): "Natural disaster or assassination or a political scandal."

Hara (Morinozuka PR Head): "Thank every god out there we didn't let the group post."

Kinoshita (Houshakuji PR Head): "I can't even imagine this being a hundred times worse."

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xXx

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Evening, Senior Partner's Office, Cybercrime Law Firm:

"You can't go in there…"

His assistant tried, but when Ootori Kyoya, the head of the Himura Syndicate, and two high-powered lawyers push past you, you move aside.

The age of the senior partner surprised me. I thought this was a younger firm.

He was standing and yelling before I could open my mouth. "What is the meaning of this? How dare you…" Then he recognized me. "Ootori Kyoya-sama?"

I spoke like I owned the place. If that's what it takes, I'm prepared to buy it right now. "Get the lawyer representing Himura Shinobu in here right now."

"We don't represent anyone by that name."

At this point, three other lawyers came into the office behind us. The leader spoke up, "I represent Himura-sama. Is there a problem?"

"Yes," I growled, "there is."

.

"I'm afraid I don't understand what you want, Ootori-sama."

Of course, I know what he wants, but I can't give it to him. Himura-sama's my client. He has no right to the information.

That's when he handed me a check for 10 million yen [~$100,000]. "I'm hiring you as my attorney. Everything said from now on is privileged."

I nodded and took the check. I still can't tell him anything about Himura-sama. But having Ootori Kyoya as a client…

Then a form was passed to me from the attorney he brought with him. A quick glance told me it was a nondisclosure agreement. A quick reading told me I couldn't even disclose that I work for him.

I started to protest when he smirked at me. "You must understand my position. As the head of the Ootori Conglomeration, I must take steps to insure my privacy, even with my lawyers."

Guess I'll sign. I'm not going to be told what this is all about until I do. I penned my name with a flourish and handed back the agreement.

"Now, Ootori-sama, what is this all about?"

"Just over twenty-eight hours ago, Himura Shinobu was kidnapped along with Fujioka Haruhi, the Morinozuka ward."

"The rumors…"

"Yes, the internet is half right." He leaned forward and held my eyes, "Himura-san was taken because of what she was doing here. Fujioka-san was taken as leverage. I need the name of the hacker."

Kidnapped?

"I facilitated their meeting and have retainers for both. I have no idea what he's doing for her."

"Dismantling a human trafficking network. And doing a damn good job until they figured out it was her."

The older man in the rumpled, but expensive suit cleared his throat, "Ootori-san…" Desperation filled his voice. He'd been introduced as Himura-sama's father. I finally understand why he's here and why Ootori-sama is taking the lead.

"We need the hacker."

How to get around my responsibilities to Himura-sama? I tilted my head and asked, "Do you wish to hire him?"

"No, dammit. Just give us his fucking name."

Ootori-sama quieted Himura-sama with a hand on his forearm. I got the distinct impression he wanted to slap it off but didn't in my presence.

"An interesting notion. Yes, I'd like to hire him."

"Excellent. I only have an encrypted email address. I don't even know his name."

"Then that will have to do."

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xXx

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Evening, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Station:

"What you're asking is highly irregular, Ishida-san."

"I understand, but the situation…"

I held up a hand to stop him. "Don't misunderstand. It's highly irregular, but the Tokyo Police will do what we can to assist."

I've got Ishida-san, the Morinozuka family head lawyer, Ishikawa-san, the Haninozuka head of security, Nakayama-san, the Black Onion Squad head of interrogation, Morimoto-san, the new Head of the Black Onion Squad, and Shingo-san, the head lawyer for the Himura Syndicate in my office. What does he think I'm going to do? Throw them out? Could I even do that? Does it matter that I'm the Deputy Superintendent of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department?

Ishida-san called for the meeting, and I knew it was bad when the five of them arrived.

"Thank you, Yokota-san. The Morinozuka, Haninozuka, and Ootori families all appreciate your assistance."

I glanced over at Shingo, and he inclined his head, "The Himura Syndicate as well."

After hearing them out, I understand why he's here. However, "Everything that happens in this station and with these prisoners must be legal and above-board."

"I'm here in strictly an observer capacity. I'll be reporting back progress, but not requesting anything directly."

Meaning he'll be going through one of the others, most likely Nakayama-san, with any issues, questions, or requests. "That is acceptable."

Just then, my assistant came in to tell me the main conference room was ready. "Gentlemen, I understand your need for haste, but we must bring in Tomizawa-san, the lead prosecutor. You'll be working more with the judicial offices than the police with this project."

"Understood," Ishida-san nodded. He's been taking the lead on this.

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Well, hell. Prosecuting this ring just got a lot more complicated but could turn out for the better. This gives me the leverage I was lacking.

"Obviously, this is a sensitive issue, but it's also immediate. There are things you need to know about how these criminals are represented, then we'll need to decide the best way to move forward.

"There have been five raids. August 19 resulted in seven arrests, August 27 in thirteen, September 7 in five, September 12 in four, and September 21 in nine. And the original arrests that resulted from Himura-san inspecting that strip club. There were fifteen there.

"While there's little doubt in my mind these separate raids and arrests are connected, each group is represented by a different law firm."

"You can't be serious."

I gave Ishida-san a sympathetic nod. "Unfortunately, yes. Whoever set up their legal defense has the groups isolated from each other." I took a sip of tea and shook my head, "It's a brilliant strategy, if convoluted."

"Are each one represented by a different lawyer within that firm?"

"No. So far, there's only one lawyer on record from each firm."

"That becomes a conflict of interest if one wants to offer up information."

"True, but that would be up to their lawyers to decide. Not us."

Silence settled on the group as we stared at each other. Now we need to plan.

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xXx

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Evening, Back Veranda, Morinozuka Estate:

Good thing we're outside. I'd gotten to the point I couldn't breathe inside the mansion. Everything and everyone is too close. Like there's no air.

"Renge-chan? Are you alright?"

I smiled at my fiancé. We feel stronger after our disagreement. Fight's probably a better description. "I'm fine. Just enjoying the fresh air."

"You look cold."

I pulled my jacket closed. "Maybe a little, but it was getting so stuffy inside." He nodded in understanding.

Dinner was traditional Japanese with fish as the main protein. Perfect after all that heavy ice cream. Umeko-san had to loan me some yoga pants.

Akito scanned the group and decided to break the overall silence. "I have exams in the morning and late afternoon tomorrow. Who else?"

"Tamaki and I have to turn in our final papers and take our English exam in the morning." Cho hadn't eaten much. I think the ice cream made her sick. "Then I have another right after lunch."

"That's when I have mine tomorrow, Cho-chan. I'll escort you."

They'll both have security, but I could tell she's relieved. "Thank you, Honey-kun. I always feel safe when you're with me."

I'm not sure if Hikaru isn't paying attention or has gotten used to the couples around here, but he didn't even roll his eyes at their sweet-talk.

"What about security? What if we're asked questions?" I could feel Tamaki-kun tense up next to me.

"I'm sure we'll have another security briefing before we leave. I assume we'll be instructed to arrive right before the start of the test and leave as soon as we're done, and not say a word to anyone while we're there."

Akito's right. Security won't want them talking to anyone.

"What if we're mobbed? If we don't say anything, isn't that confirming that she's gone?"

"I'm not sure," I took a sip of tea and thought for a moment. "None of us have ever commented on crazy internet rumors before. Why should we start now?"

We all looked up when Kumi-san and Umeko-san walked out of the mansion. "None of you will say anything tomorrow."

.

You'd think I'm made of spun glass the way Umeko's been treating me since she found out I'm pregnant. I had to demand to come to dinner with her and the kids.

As we took our seats, she continued, "Not one word. Before you leave, you'll have a security and PR briefing. They'll walk you through how to handle all this."

"Any news?" Renge-chan asked for everyone.

"Nothing new." At least nothing we're going to share with them yet. They don't need to know about the trafficking. I wish I didn't.

"How's that even possible?" That's Hikaru-kun. It's becoming easier to tell them apart by the tone of their voice. "You've got the top eight families in Japan working on this. The Black Onion Squad and two yakuza syndicates, for fuck's sake. How do you not know anything?"

Umeko hit him with her scary stare. "First of all, Hitachiin-san, do not direct that language and tone of voice to me. Second, every effort is being made to find them. Do you really believe that the Morinozuka's and Himura's would settle for anything less?"

He had the sense to look a bit ashamed, "No."

"And third, many small leads have been found and are being followed up on. Until they bear fruit, they won't be discussed."

"Oh."

She looked around at all of them as she sampled her fish. "I know this is frustrating. I know this is difficult. Hang in there. We will find them."

We're close. I can feel it. But we don't want to get their hopes up. What if we're wrong? Better to keep them in the dark.

"Where are Takashi and Chika?"

My nephew looks lost. It's easy to forget just how young he and Yasuchika are.

"In a security briefing. They're eating dinner there."

Nods all around, but Hikaru-kun's still angry.

As dinner wound down, Umeko asked if anyone wanted dessert. They all declined.

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xXx

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Evening, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Station:

This is taking entirely too long.

Shingo-san's legs are bouncing, making me crazy. At least he didn't try to bring a gun in here. Are all yakuza this on edge? Occupational hazard, except he's their head lawyer, not muscle.

Ishida-san's sitting there taking notes. Cool and collected. I'd expect nothing less from the Morinozuka head lawyer.

When Morimoto-sama and Ishikawa-san left, they left me in charge. I'm the face those criminals and their lawyers will see. I'll be asking the questions. Shingo-san and Ishida-san will be watching out of sight.

But right now, we're all watching on a monitor while Prosecutor Tomizawa-san's working with the five attorneys. We decided to not meet with the first group from July. They're already in prison.

"I'm still unsure why this change in approach is happening now."

"That is irrelevant. What you need to concern yourself with is how this affects your clients. Do they wish to take advantage of this opportunity?"

He'd presented it as a chance for goodwill with him and the judge if they offered information. But specifically, about their boss and his location. We're hoping the girls are there rather than a location where they sell the girls. The way it's structured, these guys won't know about those locations.

Finally, one of them spoke up, "It will be up to each individual client."

"Of course."

"And you must speak with only one of my clients at a time, so I can be present for each interrogation."

"My clients as well."

"And mine."

Tomizawa-san held up his hand to get them to stop. "Your client's rights will be protected."

"If one decides to cooperate, none of the others can know he did. They'll be in danger if branded a snitch."

"We have a plan for that."

This is taking entirely too long.

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xXx

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Evening, Entertainment News is Starting to Report:

"In tonight's entertainment news, a small, family-owned Go salon was thrust into the nation's spotlight when it was revealed that Fujioka Haruhi, the face of the Hitachiin's Every Woman line and the spokesperson and owner of Petto Chinmi played there.

"The owner, Hatano Atomu, was quite surprised he'd has a celebrity playing with his regulars."

Clip of Hatano-san. "She was always polite. Respectfully asking for a teaching game. I had no idea who she was. Such a sweet girl."

"The Japan Go Association told us that inquiries about the game and lessons have tripled since this morning."

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"The internet has gone wild in the last day spreading another celebrity rumor.

"Tonight, an expert in on-line group psychology breaks down why we're so fascinated, and why we perpetuate such rumors."

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"Some interesting rumors out there on Twitter today, aren't there."

"Yes, indeed. When reached, both On Okuri and Every Woman had no comment."

"Interesting how sales of Every Woman suits have risen today."

"Yes. Interesting."

.

And on and on and on and on and on and on and on…

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xXx

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Evening, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Station:

I looked over the seven prisoners from the August 19 raid and saw varying degrees of experience. Two were old for this work. At least fifties. Neither would talk. The rest under thirty, but two close to eighteen. Some hope there.

Their lawyer, Morikoa-san, is here for their protection, but I'm doing the talking.

"My name is Tomizawa. I am the Chief prosecutor for the Tokyo Judicial System."

No reaction. We haven't approached any of the prisoners from any of the raids with a deal. The evidence is just too much.

"We are looking for information on the head of your operation. If you choose to provide it, we will submit a written report of your cooperation to your presiding judge. That could go a long way towards leniency." Not really. Maybe a few months off their sentence.

"I'm not saying one damn word," one of the older ones said, looking around the room, making sure the rest knew they shouldn't either. That's the risk of doing this all at once. But it's the fastest way.

"No talking," the police officer guarding the room said behind me.

"In order to protect your rights and anonymity should you decide to take advantage of this offer, each of you will be brought to an interrogation room individually to meet with your lawyer and an assistant prosecutor. These meetings will last thirty minutes, whether you talk or not. None of the others will know if you shared any information."

One of the young ones' eyes opened wide for a flash. We'll take him first.

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"Four more groups, then we can start the interrogations." Tomizawa-san turned to me and asked for my opinion.

"No." We all turned to Ishida-san. "This plan is too complex and will take entirely too long."

"About fucking time," Shingo-san mumbled.

"What do you suggest?"

"Are you willing to make some concessions, Tomizawa-san?"

"Depends on what they are."

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xXx

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Afternoon, Phone call between Nako Nobuo [Morinozuka security guard] and Yoshida Naoto [Dog breeder]:

Nako: "We're getting closer. Finally figured out what it's about."

Yoshida: "Can you tell me?"

Nako: "You can't tell anyone. I have no idea if it will ever be made public."

Yoshida: "I can keep it to myself." And I will. I won't do anything to endanger that sweet girl.

Nako: "Human trafficking."

Yoshida: "WHAT! They took her to sell her!?" Oh, I feel sick.

Nako: "No. The yakuza girl. She was trying to take down the ring. They took Fujioka-sama as leverage."

Yoshida: "Do you think they're still in the country?"

Nako: "That's the assumption." My phone beeped with a text message from my boss. "I've got to go. I'll keep you updated if I can."

Yoshida: "Thanks. Good luck."

Nako: "Thanks."

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xXx

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Evening, Phone call between Hara (Morinozuka PR Head) and Inokuma (Haruhi's Agent):

Hara: "Inokuma-san, what can I do for you?"

Inokuma: "Akabane-san over at Every Woman isn't answering my calls. Her assistant told me to call you." And you better give me some damn answers. "What is going on with my client, Fujioka Haruhi?"

Hara: "No comment."

Inokuma: "That's enough," I slammed my fist on my desk. I know she heard that through the phone. "I demand to speak with my client."

Hara: "That is not possible at the moment."

Inokuma: "And why not?"

Hara: "No comment."

Inokuma: "Excuse me, Hara-san, but just how stupid do you think I am? There are rumors all over Twitter, she hasn't been seen since Saturday night at the ball, and I can't get her on the phone. What am I supposed to think?"

Hara: "What you choose to conclude is your choice. The information I can give you is, 'No comment'."

Inokuma: "That's the same answer everyone's getting. I'm her agent, not some media intern off the street. What is going on?"

Hara: I sighed and thought about it for a moment. We've all be dodging his calls throughout the day, Akabane-san going as far as having him escorted him out of her offices when he showed up and made a scene. The last thing we want is for him to get so angry he goes to the press.

"Inokuma-san, I have neither her nor her guardians' permission to discuss anything with you. You must understand that since she's underage, I need that permission."

Inokuma: "Then, I'll contact the Morinozuka estate…"

Hara: Oops. "That will get you nowhere. The Morinozuka's are not returning calls today."

Inokuma: "You realize that I have no other option than to assume the rumors are true. Especially with what you've just told me."

Hara: Yes, I know. "And I hope you realize that anything you do that will put your client at risk will be swiftly dealt with. Remember the conditions of the nondisclosure agreement you signed."

Inokuma: Well, that confirms it. She's been kidnapped. Here's where I really must be careful. "Hara-san, I know she has many people to look after her, but I need to worry about her media reputation. The sooner I know about things, the better I can do my job."

Hara: He's right. He'll be essential to handling the press when this gets out. "Know that I'll have you brought in as soon as necessary." I lowered my tone, "As long as you do not do anything prematurely."

Inokuma: "Understood." That's the best I'm going to get. I'm still unknown to them. They aren't going to trust me with whatever's going on. "Please call the second you are able, no matter the time."

Hara: "Of course. Until then, 'No comment'."

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xXx

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Evening, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Station:

Five lawyers, thirty-eight defendants, the head prosecutor, and me. Plus, two dozen police officers lining the walls.

Tomizawa-san took the lead.

"We're asking for any information you have about this trafficking group, specifically the leader or headquarters."

"I'm not a fucking snitch."

"Quiet," one of the police guards barked.

"In return for your information, you will serve your time in a facility away from Tokyo and under an assumed name. Your family will also be relocated and given new names, different from yours to prevent a connection being made."

A couple of them were looking around or looking at their lawyer.

Then he gave them the cherry on top. "If you have actionable information on the boss or headquarters, your family will receive 100 million yen [~$1 million]."

"Shit."

"100 million?"

"Quiet."

"Each of you will get a few minutes alone with your lawyer to tell him your decision. You'll be interviewed without the rest of them knowing."

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xXx

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Late Evening, Gym, Himura Compound:

"How's he doing?"

"Couldn't stay still anymore. Brought him here until we knew something from the interviews."

As a Himura guard, I'm used to Shinobu-sama wanting to play a heavy game of basketball when she's frustrated. She'll throw elbows and play dirty. We've all gotten used to wearing cups when she's wild and angry.

Ritsu-sama's different. This is the first time I've been around him for any length of time. I'm not on Shinobu-sama's detail, just someone that's picked to play when she needs it. He's more physical. And much angrier than I've ever seen her. Not that he shouldn't be. I'd be too if my fiancée was missing, and I didn't know who had her.

I instinctively took a step back when he let loose with a primal scream and slammed his fist into the speed bag. Fucking thing broke.

I shrugged at Tetsuya, "Guess I'll go gear up, and he can spar with me."

"Put on every piece of protective equipment you have."

"No shit."

.

xXx

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Late Evening, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Station:

After an hour of those fuckers meeting with their lawyers and Nakayama and Tomizawa coming up with an interrogation plan, I was ready to knock down doors and rip off heads.

That's why I'm an observer. They're afraid of what I might do.

If Shinobu-sama dies while they're fucking around…

"August 19, one. August 25, three. September 7, two. September 12, two. September 22, three. Eleven total. And they all say they have information on the boss."

Of course, they do. Going to waste a bunch of fucking time on these morons who don't know shit.

"We can take five at a time, one from each raid with their lawyer. Three rounds and we'll be done."

"Then fucking do it." Tomizawa glared at me, but I don't give a shit. "Who knows what those girls are going through right now."

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xXx

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Late Evening, Phone Call Between Kyoya, Nakayama (BOS Interrogator), and Morimoto (BOS Head):

Kyoya: I picked up the phone before the first ring finished, "Anything?"

Nakayama: "Not yet, Ootori-sama. I'm just walking into my first interview."

Kyoya: "What the hell took so long? You've been there for two hours."

Nakayama: "Each group only has one lawyer. Once we got them all in a room and offered them a different prison and new name, they all had to meet individually with them."

Kyoya: "Unacceptable. How can one lawyer represent all the men arrested in one raid?"

Nakayama: "Ishida-san says it's a conflict of interest, but it doesn't concern us unless one of the accused protests."

Morimoto: "Sounds like thin ice too me." I finished another cup of tea, and my assistant refilled it right away. "What about those that talk? Won't their lawyer know where they are and tip off someone?"

Nakayama: "They'll be given state funded representation for their trials. They'll be held in a closed court. Their locations and new names confidential even from their lawyers."

.

xXx

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Late Evening, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Station (Round One):

"The girls came in a delivery truck."

"Logo?"

"Nothing. Plain truck."

"What about the driver?"

"Never saw him before. Never saw him again. Didn't say a word. Didn't even get out of the truck. We had to do all the fucking work."

Somehow, I don't feel the slightest bit sorry for this…person.

"Money?"

"They came and got it. Never saw them. Locked box outside the place."

"How did the customers find you?"

"Don't know. Not my thing. Heard something about the dark web."

We've been at this for almost twenty minutes. This idiot's dragging it out for some reason.

"How were the rooms cleaned?"

"Cleaned?"

"Cleaned. Fresh sheets. Things like that."

He laughed at me. "We weren't running a hotel. Sheets got changed when they tore or got too disgusting. The girls mopped up their own rooms."

"What about food?"

"They got fed."

"How?"

"Open the door and toss it at them."

"No," you idiot, "where did the food come from."

Another five minutes and I was sure he didn't know what we needed.

.

"Wait!"

The prosecutor and that other guy stopped on their way out.

"There's got to be something you can do."

My lawyer just shook his head. "You don't have the information they need."

"But I told them everything I know. Everything."

"Not good enough for the money," the prosecutor said as they walked out the door.

.

"If I tell you what I know, you will keep my family safe?"

"Yes. They'll be relocated and given new names."

"Oh." And he just sat there, chewing his lip.

"Well?"

"Well, what?"

I think this one was dropped on his head when he was a child.

"Tell us what you know." He might be a snob, but that interrogator guy doesn't let them rattle him.

Twenty minutes later and no new information.

.

"But I know more."

"Then keep talking."

Fifteen minutes later, nothing we didn't already either know or suspect.

At least we can call it quits for this raid. August 19 only had one willing to talk.

I never have to see that lawyer again.

.

"But…"

"No. You get the deal, but not the money."

And he walked out. How is my family going to live in a new place without money?

.

Nothing on the boss or location. I already reported back to Oshiro-san.

"Well," Nakayama came into the observation room and dropped his notebook on the table, "Five down, six to go."

"At least we're getting information to use against those not talking."

I nodded at Tomizawa-san. "Good."

"I've called in two investigators to follow up on some information they gave us. If they turn up anything that will help you, they're to call me immediately."

"Thank you."

"Of course."

"No," I caught his eyes and held them, "thank you for everything. I know the concessions you gave could cost you some stronger sentences. The Morinozuka's greatly appreciate your help."

He bowed his head to acknowledge me. "You and the family are welcome."

"Enough of this." Shingo-san slammed his hands on the table, and we all jumped. "Get out there and talk to the next group."

"Be careful, Shingo-san." I used my best Morinozuka trained voice. "You are only here as an observer. We all want Fujioka-sama and Himura-sama back, but we will do this right."

"If Himura-sama dies while you're fucking around, I won't be responsible for what the Himura and Kasanoda Syndicates do."

I stood and stared down Shingo-san. "One more word and I'll have you removed. You're here under my good graces, and I will kick you out if you impede this process.

"Fine." He stood and headed for the door, "I'm going to report in."

I hope the next group is more informative.

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xXx

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Late Evening, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:

I blinked back tears when I heard Haruhi whimper in her sleep again.

Fuckers are going to pay.

First thing I'm going to do is reach down that motherfucker's throat and rip his heart out. Then, I'm going to take a shower. Then, I'm going to rip my security detail apart for letting this happen in the first fucking place.

Shitting yourself isn't comfortable. And I stink. And Ritsu's going to find me like this.

And I don't care. I don't care what I look like or what I've been through. I want that man to come through that door and burn this place to the ground.

I want that man to get in here and rescue me.

And when the time comes, I'll save his ass.

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xXx

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Late Evening, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Station (Round Two):

"That's everything I know." He sat there staring at his hands folded on the table. "Is it enough to save my family."

Young. Maybe he didn't know what he was getting into.

"Yes. They'll be relocated, and you'll serve your time under a different name."

He looked up, eyes glistening. "Thank you."

He didn't give us anything we didn't know already, but it's not his fault he wasn't interviewed first.

.

"I wouldn't say shit if I was still part of a syndicate, but I got no one looking out for me and my family."

Old enough for grandkids. His ink was for the Sendo Syndicate. The Kasanoda's wiped them out last spring.

"They'll be relocated. Start talking."

"I handled the invites. The guys came through referral. If you were vouched for by a good customer, you could get in."

"Where did the original customers come from?"

"No idea. There was a customer base when I got there."

"How did it work?"

"They would give out the number for my burner…"

.

"Nothing new from him," Nakayama-san grumbled as we left the room.

"No, but confirmation will help build my case."

.

"Yeah, I saw the boss."

"You did? When and where?"

"Look, Asshole, I want the money. I want it first."

That's when Tomizawa-sama and Nakayama-sama came in. I'm a junior prosecutor. I can't handle the big news.

"No money until your information checks out. It must be actionable and lead us to either the boss or the headquarters. Take it or leave it."

As I stood up to let Tomizawa-sama take my seat, I heard the guy's lawyer tell him to take it.

"It was a money pickup. Black limo came up and one of our guards ran out with an envelope."

"Is that how the money was always picked up?"

"Not sure. Only saw it done a few times. Wasn't usually on for that shift."

"What shift? What time?"

Why aren't they asking what the boss looks like?

"After the lunch rush."

There's a lunch rush for sex? Disgusting.

"I was usually before dinner to midnight."

"Go on."

"Guy ran out with the envelope and handed it to the driver. But the guy in back lowered his window to toss out a cigarette butt. Got a quick look."

And?

"And?"

"Late forties. Just a bit of gray in dark brown hair. Saw enough of his sleeve to know the suit was expensive, but cut like a businessman, not the snob he was."

"Any distinguishing features? Glasses? Scars?"

"No. Too far away to see any scars. Glasses had gray frames. Square shaped."

.

"No fucking way."

Shingo-san was staring at the monitor when I turned around. "What?"

"Sounds like the heir to the Chiba Syndicate, Daiju."

"Another syndicate? But he," I pointed at the monitor, "said he isn't part of a syndicate."

"Look, Ishida-san, I don't get it either, but that description. Asshole dresses like a businessman, not like his father. And those glasses are something you don't forget."

He pushed his chair back and headed for the door, "I'm going to go call this in."

"Wait. Call the security conference line. Everyone needs to hear this."

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Phone call between Yamamoto Daichi [Mori's Assistant] and Dylan [his husband and kitchen manager at Ranka's]:

Dylan: It's about time he called. Haven't heard anything since he left the apartment this morning. "Anything new, Daichi?"

Yamamoto: "I don't know what, but something happened. There's a lot of activity going on. I'm not in the security briefings with Takashi-sama."

Dylan: So, why are you calling me?

Yamamoto: "Are you still there?"

Dylan: "Yeah. Sorry, the kitchen is crazy tonight. Everyone here is talking about the rumors."

Yamamoto: "Like I said, I don't know what's going on, but something happened. I saw Takashi-sama a little bit ago, and he was angrier than I'd ever seen him. Thought he was going to rip someone to shreds."

Dylan: "Must be bad." Good. I can work with that. "You'll keep me updated."

Yamamoto: "Yes. But remember, Dylan, you can't tell anyone. They're keeping this really quiet."

Dylan: "I won't. Don't worry." Yeah, right. This opportunity is too good to pass up.

Yamamoto: "Good. I gotta go. Honami-san's headed my way."

Dylan: "OK. Let me know what's going on. Text me if you can't call."

Yamamoto: "Alright."

.

This is great. The story of a lifetime. And I'm in at the beginning.

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Security Conference Call:

Shingo (Himura Head Lawyer): "Himura-sama, it's the Chiba Syndicate."

Himura Junto: "What? Slow down."

Shingo (Himura Head Lawyer): "We just got a description that matches Chiba Daiju. Glasses, hair, bad suit. Said he was there for a cash pickup."

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "Why the fuck would he be doing a cash pickup?"

Shingo (Himura Head Lawyer): "They ran the envelope out to the driver. The guy only saw Daiju because he rolled down the window to throw a cigarette butt out."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "I thought you cleared the other syndicates."

Kasanoda Ryuu: "We did. I spoke to Dai-san personally. He said they had nothing to do with it." Everyone in the room jumped when my hand slammed down on the table. "And I believed him."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Who's Dai? I thought Shingo-san said Daiju?"

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "Daiju's the heir. Dai-san's running it now."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Could he be running it without his father knowing?"

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "Doubt it. Doesn't seem possible."

Morimoto (BOS Head): "With all due respect, you didn't know what Shinobu-sama was up to."

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "She was paying one hacker through one lawyer. Whoever's running this trafficking ring has over a hundred guys and at least six locations plus a headquarters. And hired six different law firms, one for each raid. Hard to hide all that."

Morimoto (BOS Head): "None of the background checks on those arrested came up as Chiba Syndicate. Over half were former Sendo Syndicate muscle. That syndicate was eliminated back in the spring."

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "I know. We did it."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Could this Daiju-san have been working with the Sendo Syndicate and kept going after it was disbanded?"

Kasanoda Ryuu: "None of this is getting us anywhere. I'm going to call Dai-san again and get to the bottom of this."

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Outdoor Meditation Garden, Morinozuka Estate:

"So," I nudged Cho with my shoulder, "tell me about this Geisha clause." And couldn't help but laugh when she turned beet red.

"It can't be that bad."

"I guess it's not, but only because I can't see Honey-kun actually having an affair with a Geisha."

I raised a brow and waited.

"It's one of only two conditions for divorce. Infidelity. He can have an affair with a Geisha as long as it doesn't go public."

"The Haninozuka's are traditional. I'm not surprised it's in there, but," I put my arm around her, "you're right. I can't see him doing it."

"I know, but…"

"But just having it in there feels wrong."

"Exactly."

"Have to talked to him about it?"

"Nooooo."

"You should. He might not even know it's in there. He'd have the authority to take it out." Her eyes widened; she looked hopeful. "I'm sure he would for you."

I watched as she thought for a moment. Then her face lit up with a smile. "Thanks, Renge. I'll talk to him as soon as this mess is over. I'm sure he'll offer to have it removed."

Then she looked at me out of the corner of her eye. "Did you have anything like that in your contract?"

"No. Most of ours was about money. His grandmother was paranoid I wanted him just for the Suoh name."

"She didn't get to know you very well, did she?"

"Nope." We stood up and headed back to the mansion. "Her loss."

We hadn't taken but a few steps before Cho's phone rang.

"It's my brother. I should take it. Go ahead and I'll catch up."

.

Cho: "Hey. "What's up?"

Takao: "What's up? Oh, nothing except father's called me a dozen times today telling me some nonsense about you leaving the family."

Cho: "What?"

Takao: "That's my line. I'm finally done with my finals today and can talk to you about it. What is going on?"

Cho: "I'm over at the Morinozuka's because of a security issue, and he wants me home. I refused to go."

Takao: "Refused?"

Cho: "Well, it's safer here. I know Morinozuka-sama called him and explained it."

Takao: "Whatever he said only made father angrier." Wait? Safer? "Safer? What's going on, Nomura?"

Cho: "You can't tell anyone."

Takao: "Do Mother and Father know?"

Cho: "Yes."

Takao: "Then I won't tell anyone. I'm buried in my textbooks now anyway."

Cho: "Two of my friends have been kidnapped. They brought the rest of the group here for safety."

Takao: "Stop joking. What's really going on." She can be so flighty.

Cho: "Takao, you know me. I wouldn't joke about something like that. They've been gone almost thirty hours, and no one knows why yet. As soon as security knew what happened, they called a code or something and all the primaries were brought here. It's the safest."

Takao: "They think you're a target?"

Cho: "At first. Not so much anymore, but they want us to stay here anyway. And besides, I'm not going anywhere until they're found. This is the best place to be for information."

Takao: "That explains why Father wants you to stop dating that Honey guy."

Cho: "Not going to happen. We're in love. I'm eighteen. I don't need their permission to get married. I don't need father to sign the marriage contract. I can do that myself."

Takao: "You prepared to not go back home? He's furious."

Cho: "Honey-kun and I can handle anything together. We're ready."

Takao: "You're both crazy." If this is what the elite of the elite are like, I'm glad we're a second-tier family. "Do me a favor."

Cho: "What?"

Takao: "Don't make any permanent decisions while all that mess is going on…"

Cho: "I'm not going home."

Takao: "I didn't tell you to. Just don't throw out ultimatums to Father and try to not get disowned. Placate him just enough to get through this then when they're found," if they're found, "and things calm down, all six of you, you two and both sets of parents, sit down and figure it out."

Cho: "OK."

Takao: "I'm serious, Nomura. Tell Father to think about the press if you have to. That should help. The company can't afford any bad publicity after that latest merger."

Cho: "OK. I can do that."

Takao: "Mother might not be able to change his mind, but she should be able to calm him down. Call her, tell her everything, and see what she can do."

Cho: "I'll do that as soon as we hang up."

Takao: "Good." I took a deep breath and looked around for my aspirin. "And keep me updated. Texts please because I'm studying for a killer final tomorrow."

Cho: "Sure. As soon as I know something, you'll know it. But you can't…"

Takao: "…tell anyone. I got it. Just keep Mother updated too."

Cho: "Alright."

Takao: "Bye."

Cho: "Bye."

.

What a mess. I should probably tell Kumi-san about all this. She and Mother are becoming good friends.

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Phone Call between Kasanoda Ryuu and Chiba Dai:

Ryuu: "Tell me why I shouldn't just crush your entire fucking syndicate and kill every single member?" I glared at Ritsu, and he sat down. I don't want him talking during this. Too angry.

Dai: "What the hell are you talking about?"

Ryuu: "Himura Shinobu. I know you have her. I want her back. This is your one chance to live through this."

Dai: Has he been drinking? "Ryuu-san, I have no idea what you're talking about. When we spoke earlier, I assured you we aren't involved. Nothing's changed since then."

Ryuu: "Daiju was recognized. I knew you were into some hard shit, but I thought you were above trafficking. You aren't the Minami's for fuck's sake."

Dai: "Trafficking? When did this become about that?"

Ryuu: Why can't I reach into the phone and pull him out by his throat? Why hasn't that been invented yet?

"It's not just trafficking. Do you even know who the other girl you have is? The Morinozuka ward." I heard a quick intake of breath. "Yeah. The one that's dating the heir. And it gets worse."

Silence.

"The Ootori's are involved. The Black Onion Squad might call themselves a private police force, but you have no fucking clue what they're capable of."

Dai: The Morinozuka ward? Dating the heir? Ootori police?

"The Chiba Syndicate doesn't traffic people. I don't know who your source saw, but it wasn't my son."

Ryuu: "Daiju was recognized at one of the locations where the girls were kept. He picked up the cash. He was there." I took a deep breath and lowered my voice, "Where? Are? They?"

Dai: My son picking up cash? My son doing dirty work?

"It couldn't have been him."

Ryuu: "You sure about that? He's my age and still not running the show. Do you know everything he's into?"

Dai: I want to say yes, but realistically, he could be up to lots of things I don't know about. I've given him a large part of the syndicate to run on his own. But he's not allowed to start a new business venture without my approval.

"This syndicate doesn't traffic."

Ryuu: "Ask him. You'll know. I'll wait."

…

Dai: Security says he's in a business meeting that can't be interrupted but won't tell me where or with who.

"He's in a business meeting. I'll talk to him when he's done."

Ryuu: "If you're fucking with me, Dai, I'll rip apart Tokyo to kill both you and your son, and your grandsons while I'm at it."

Dai: I have no doubt that's true. We're several syndicates down from him. "I'll call you back within the hour."

Ryuu: "You fucking better."

.

The boss hung up his phone and stared out the window. I could see his jaw clenching. That's never a good sign. Hope he doesn't crack another tooth. Everyone was miserable the week he did that.

"Find my fucking son. Now!"

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Lounge, Morinozuka Estate:

"Yuki-chan, this is Numata Fujio, your new detail head."

Teraughi and I decided now would be a good time for them to meet. She wouldn't be going anywhere for a while, so they'd have time to talk about his methods and what she prefers.

We'd talked quite a bit about Tani and his mistakes, what she wanted in a detail head, and how she wanted to be guarded. In the past, she'd just followed orders, but she's come out of her shell so much in the last few months.

"It's an honor, Ito-sama," Numata bowed. "I'll keep you safe and know that I'll always put myself between you and any danger."

"Thank you." She still sounds so young and shy. I suppose, compared to me, she is. This decade age difference creeps up on me sometimes.

"If you're willing, I'd like to discuss your expectations and preferences in how I run your detail."

"Well," she gestured for him to sit on the sofa, and they both sat. I could tell he was uncomfortable with the familiarity but did it for her. "I'm not sure how much of what I'd like can be incorporated and still keep me safe."

"Most adjustments can be easily incorporated without sacrificing safety."

"I think I'd like to always know where everyone is. I don't like surprises."

"We can do that. I can brief you on deployment, and you'll know each person on the team. No surprise faces."

"What would be reported back to the Black Onion Squad?"

Here's her biggest trust issue. I detest her father for the emotional hurt he's inflicted on her. Demanding her security report every little detail of her life to him. If I have my way, he'll never see her again.

"They'd be told your movements, but in general terms. If we're in a store, that's all they'd need to know. Not what you're looking at or buying. Not what conversations you have. Nothing personal. What you purchase isn't their business. Who you meet with, as long as it isn't a security risk, isn't their business."

His eyes flicked over to me then back to her. "I work for you, Ito-sama. My job is to protect you, not be a spy for anyone. And no one else on your team will be reporting back to anyone either. We can't protect you if you don't trust us. We will all work hard to build that trust."

"Thank you."

I like him. He'll work hard to make sure she's comfortable with her detail. He'll also keep her safe and not screw up like the last two. Kyoya and Tachibana assured me of that.

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Security Headquarters, Himura Compound:

Ryuu hung up the phone and looked at me. "Not sure he has them."

"Me either. He actually sounded surprised."

"You've met his son, Pops. Guy's a huge fucking asshole. Pissed his dad's still running things." Ritsu stood up and started pacing. "Bet he's doing this on the side. Bet he's doing it to stick it to his old man."

Fujii-san, who I'd asked to be the voice of reason because I can't think straight, not with my baby girl out there, spoke up, "While I agree Dai sounded clueless, it doesn't mean he actually is. We can all lie when we need to."

"FUCK!" We all jumped. Ritsu stood there, fists clenched, head thrown back, neck tendons standing out. "Enough fucking around. Let's find Daiju and end him."

"Son," Ryuu put his hands on his shoulders and pushed him back into his seat, "I'm going to report back to the conference call, and then we'll plan to do just that."

He reached for the phone when it finally clicked. "Marriage contract."

"What?"

"Marriage contract. Daiju approached us with a marriage contract for Shinobu and his oldest son, Daikichi."

"Are you fucking kidding me?" Ritsu roared. "Before or after we signed ours."

"Before, but they knew we were negotiating." He opened his mouth, but I answered the question before he asked. "I told them no. Told them that yours was going to happen and nothing could stop it."

"Pops," Ritsu's voice was so low it was a growl, "that shithead looked at her like a snack or something at our engagement party, and I've heard some really perverted rumors about him."

"I'll update the security group, and we'll put it out there that we're looking for any of them."

"And when we get them, they're going to be begging me for their lives before I'm done with them."

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Security Conference Call:

Ryuu: "Got nothing. Says the syndicate isn't involved. Claims he can't get his son on the phone to ask."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Not sure how it works there, but if Akira-sama needed Takashi-sama on the phone, there'd be no excuse no matter what he was doing."

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "That's how it works here."

Hibino (Himura Head): "Yeah, it'd have to be something big for us not to get her on the phone right away."

Kawabata (Suoh Head): Like her getting kidnapped…but I kept my mouth shut.

Morimoto (BOS Head): "What do you want to do next, Hibino-san?"

Hibino (Himura Head): "We'll put out feelers for his location. You don't need to know more than that. If we get info, we'll share and coordinate any action."

Morimoto (BOS Head): "Good. I have two squads ready to go the second we have a location."

Hibino (Himura Head): "Shingo-san, keep the interviews going. If one of them knew that much, maybe we'll get more from another one."

Shingo (Himura Head Lawyer): "Group three is set up, and they're going in right now."

Hibino (Himura Head): "Keep us updated."

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Phone Call between Hikaru and his Doctor:

Hikaru: "Hey. Karou and Mom made me call you."

Doctor: "Then they must be worried."

Hikaru: "Yeah."

Doctor: "Do they have reason to be?"

Hikaru: "I guess."

Doctor: "Do you want to talk about it?" This has to be about the internet rumors. I spend all my time working with adolescents. I can read between the lines of all those tweets, and I believe the rumors. I'm sure they don't have all the facts right, but something is definitely going on.

Hikaru: "No."

Doctor: "Alright. Tell me how school's going."

Hikaru: "School? How the fuck can I talk about school now?"

Doctor: "So, something else is bothering you?"

Hikaru: "Damn right." I had to make myself relax my hand, so I didn't break my phone. "It's Haruhi."

Doctor: I waited and waited. Sooner or later…

Hikaru: "She's fucking gone and there's nothing I can do. I'm completely useless."

…

Doctor: "So, you accept that the professionals are better equipped to handle her kidnapping?"

Hikaru: "I guess."

Doctor: "You guess?"

Hikaru: "Yeah. Alright. I fucking admit it. Is that what you want?"

Doctor: "What I want is for you to be in a place where you can do what's best for both you and Haruhi-chan."

Hikaru: "Whatever."

…

Hikaru: "It's just not fair. I need to do something. Anything."

Doctor: "What have you been doing? Anything productive?"

Hikaru: "I tried to study."

Doctor: "She'd want you to keep up with your assignments."

Hikaru: "Fucking bookworm."

Doctor: "What do you want her to tell you after she's found?"

Hikaru: "I want her to thank me for saving her."

Doctor: "Why?" Silence. "You're her friend, Hikaru. She's a smart girl. She knows it will be security coming through the door for her."

Hikaru: "Fuck."

…

Doctor: "So, what are you going to do next?"

Hikaru: "I'm going to go find her cats and see if they're ok."

Doctor: "I'm sure she'd be glad you did that."

Hikaru: "Whatever."

Doctor: "Call me tomorrow morning or sooner if something comes up. Doesn't matter what time."

Hikaru: "Fine."

Doctor: "I know you can be strong for her, Hikaru. She'll need that when she's found."

Hikaru: "I can do that."

Doctor: "Yes, you can."

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Station (Round Three):

Last group. Only two suspects.

I leaned back and watched the interviews.

.

"Brought them in by ship. In containers."

That's new.

"From where?"

"No idea. Wasn't my part. Just heard some stuff."

"What port?"

"Nagoya."

"They were trucked all the way to Tokyo from Nagoya?"

He shrugged and coughed. Too many cigarettes. "I don't ask questions."

Probably why this moron's still alive.

"You'll sit with a sketch artist. We want any faces you've seen that weren't arrested with you."

"Only two. Truck driver and his muscle."

.

Last one. Tomizawa-san and I did this one together for a big push. We need information and there's something about his body language…

Older. Late forties. Muscles turning to fat. Not used to the heavy work anymore.

He's leaning back, trying to look down on us.

"Headquarters."

"What about it?"

"You want an address or a map?"

.

xXx

.

Author's Note:

Dad and I went back and forth several times about he approach the police would take for getting information. The first one was waaaay too complicated, bordering on ridiculous. It's the first plan they talk about. Took hours longer than what we ended up with and was just me trying to make things more dramatic for no reason. The second one was just too easy, with the guy that had the info basically jumping up in the middle of the first briefing and spilling his guts. We ended up here with this. I hope it makes sense. It's still probably more convoluted than it needs to be, but we are talking about lawyers, right?

And they identified Daiju…

Security and parents decided not to tell the group about the trafficking. You'll see how that plays out later. I think they were right to keep it from them.

We already knew Dylan was causing problems at Ranka's, but now it sounds like he's up to even more trouble. What will Takashi do when he finds out?

Does anyone out there think Honey won't take that Geisha clause out for Cho? Can anyone out there picture Honey having an affair with a Geisha? I don't think that will be a problem once she brings it up. But…it sounds like Cho and her father are on a collision course. Good thing her brother might be able to talk some sense into her.

Yuki meets her new detail head. Spoiler alert – this one's going to be a good one.

Wanted to write more of Hikaru's conversation with his doc but didn't think I'd do it right. Ended up cutting it into pieces, and Dad and I think it works. Hope you all can see how the doc helps him through.

.

Next Chapter:

The chapter you've been waiting for. A rescue planned and implemented. Recovery begins.

.

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, any real restaurant, business, artist, food product, movie, game, location, or really anything else that exists. I do, however, own any original characters and the plot of this story.