Author's Note:

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

Let us know what you think…Reviews are better than Christmas presents and chocolate rolled up together.

Let the treatment and recovery begin…

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xXx

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Date Posted: 12/3/2022

Trigger Warnings: Language, discussion of violence

The Painful Truth - Chapter 8: Tokyo Main

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Tuesday, September 27 (Continued):

Early, Early Morning, Outside the Warehouse:

"Stop pushing!"

"We have a right to be here!"

Other press jostled me, so I pushed back. I'm not giving up my spot for anything. I was first to live stream, and I'm the only one who got the whole thing.

The front doors of the warehouse burst open and lots of troops came out.

I continued narrating my feed. "We're seeing a dozen officers pouring out of the warehouse trying to block our view."

I focused my phone, trying to see behind them.

And there she is. "You are seeing glimpses of who we believe to be Fujioka Haruhi leaving the building. Her head is immobilized, and her face covered. Must be some form of facial injury or concussion."

My camera caught a glimpse of red hair. "That's Kasanoda Ritsu, the heir to Kasanoda syndicate. Not sure why he'd be escorting her. We saw Morinozuka Takashi enter the building earlier. They're currently dating, so he should be there next to her."

Damn, what a scoop. "Is it a love triangle?

"They're headed for the parking lot and the medical evac helicopter. My guess is Tokyo Main. It's the nearest trauma hospital."

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Warehouse Search:

With one last hit from the sledgehammer, the metal door gave way.

"Oh, shit."

"GET MEDICAL!"

"AND LIGHTHOUSE!"

I count ten. That one looks younger than my little sister.

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Warehouse Parking Lot:

"Fuck you. I'm getting on with her. You can't stop me."

I grabbed the young lord and pulled him away, "Let them go. She needs to get to the hospital."

"Let me go." I dropped my hands at that growl.

"Kasanoda…"

"Ootori? What the fuck do you want?"

"There's an escort helicopter touching down as soon as this one takes off. It's for you and your group." He pointed at one hovering off to the side.

Ritsu-sama yelled back at the helicopter Shinobu-sama was on, "Don't just fucking sit there. Take the fuck off." And they did.

He wasn't going to say it, so I turned to Ootori-sama, "Thanks."

Within minutes, the Young Lord, his father, and I were taking off and following Shinobu-sama.

.

Early, Early Morning, Outside the Warehouse:

"Wait. Another group of officers and medics are coming out with another gurney."

Who is it? Was someone else kidnapped and we didn't know?

Then I saw her face. She's wearing a C-collar and one side is covered in pressure bandages, but it's her.

"Ladies and gentlemen, that's Fujioka Haruhi. We don't know who the first person wheeled out yet was, but this is definitely her."

Why are her legs up like that?

"They're loading her on the helicopter right now.

"The blanket has fallen off.

"She appears to be lying in a chair, one of her arms strapped to the armrest. I am unable to determine why."

Her helicopter took off and another immediately landed.

"Now we're seeing Morinozuka Takashi, Haninozuka Yasuchika, Morinozuka Akira, and Ootori Kyoya climb aboard another chopper and take off after hers.

"Remember, you saw it here first…"

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Warehouse Parking Lot:

After Haruhi took off, her escort chopper landed and I jumped on along with Takashi, Uncle Akira, and Ootori.

No one said anything to him, so I did. "Thank you for arranging the transportation."

"Of course."

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Twitter:

Breaking news…Fujioka Haruhi being taken from warehouse in Kabukicho District. #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats [Link to full story on website, featuring pic of her being wheeled out.]

I told you all she was kidnapped! #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats [forwarded pic of Haruhi being wheeled out of warehouse]

Still don't know why…#FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats

But who was the first person? And what are the yakuza doing there? #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats

Not just any yakuza…Kasanoda's a friend of Fujioka's #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats

That's Morinozuka Takashi and Haninozuka Yasuchika! #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats [screen capture from live stream]

And on and on and on

.

xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Security Conference Call:

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "They've been found."

Group Security Heads: Relieved sighs, congratulations, clapping, cheering

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Both helicopters taken off. Himura-sama headed for Kasanoda Compound. Haruhi-sama headed for Tokyo Main. Ootori-sama confirms specialists ready."

…description of injuries…

Harada (Hitachiin Head): "And the group?"

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "I'll get them in limos and over there soon. No sense in rushing. She won't be allowed visitors for a while."

Harada (Hitachiin Head): "The twins, especially Hikaru-sama, are going to go crazy. How are you going to break it to them?"

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "I've already told them. They were in a panic from the news and social media."

Kawabata (Suoh Head): "I can only imagine. Wish we could have kept their phones from them."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Yes, but it was impossible."

Kawabata (Suoh Head): "When are they going over?"

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "I told them forty-five minutes. That was ten minutes ago."

Harada (Hitachiin Head): "How on earth are you getting them to wait that long?"

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Renge-sama, Akito-sama, and Mitsukuni-sama are all smart enough to realize getting there immediately won't do any good. They helped calm the hot heads down. They're also gathering their things. Don't want them over there bored to tears. That's never a good idea with this group. Might even feed them before we leave."

Harada (Hitachiin Head): "Good luck with that."

Osakada (Houshakuji Head): "Let us know when you're ready to take them over."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "I will. I suggest you keep the parents away from the hospital for a while. We've already gotten reports of press swarming the front entrance."

Kawabata (Suoh Head): "How do they know?"

Osakada (Houshakuji Head): "Closest trauma hospital. Fair assumption."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Exactly. Ootori security is setting up barricades and clearing the underground entrance. That's how the group will be going in."

Kawabata (Suoh Head): "What about security for the group?"

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "All their detail heads and details will be going with. They've been resting, so they're fresh. They'll help secure the hospital and will rotate out guarding the group in the waiting room."

Osakada (Houshakuji Head): "Let them keep us updated. Once this calms down, you get some rest."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Sounds good. I'll let you know when I turn it over to my second."

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Medical Helicopter:

There's no way we can treat this eye at the Kasanoda medical facilities. I looked up at the pilot, "Go to Tokyo Main."

"Are you sure? We have orders to take her to the Kasanoda Compound."

Idiots. "You have orders to follow my orders, and I'm ordering you to take us to Tokyo Main."

"Yes, Sir."

We took a hard bank to the left, and I heard them notify the other helicopter and the hospital.

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Quiet Neutral Location Away from Warehouse:

I stepped out of my limo, and Ryuu-san handed me a tablet. The first picture showed my son lying dead on a warehouse floor.

My son. He was involved.

I could barely hear Ryuu-san over the blood pounding in my ears. "I want you dead, Dai. Convince me not to kill you right here."

I can't focus now. Nothing makes sense. "What?"

"Swipe left."

That's Daikichi! He's been shot. I can't see his eyes. "Is my grandson dead?"

"Yes. He shot Shinobu-chan."

"Who…"

"That's Fujioka-chan, the Morinozuka ward. One of your son's muscle stabbed her in the hand and sliced her face."

"Morinozuka's…"

.

How did this idiot ever become a yakuza boss? "Pull yourself together, Dai!"

He jumped at my bark and almost dropped the tablet.

"Swipe left.

"That's what they did to Shinobu-chan."

His blank face looked up at me, and I repeated, "Convince me not to kill you right here."

"Uh…"

"That's it." I pulled out my gun and held it to his forehead. "You had your chance."

.

Junto-sama's on the helicopter following Shinobu-sama. As his head of security, he asked me to come with Ryuu-sama.

I didn't think he'd shoot Dai like this. I figured he'd let the Himura's handle it.

That's when Dai dropped to his knees and started babbling. "Please. I didn't know. Daiju did it on his own. Please. I have a wife and other grandchildren." He tapered off into wailing, and I found myself hoping Ryuu-sama would shoot him.

"Shut up, Dai. Just shut up. You're pathetic. No wonder your syndicate's so low."

"Please…"

"Oh, for fuck's sake, stand up like a man." Ryuu-sama put his gun away. "I'm not going to kill you. At least not right now."

"What are you going to do?"

"Call Junto."

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Outside Barricades, Tokyo Main:

"I'm standing outside the emergency entrance to Tokyo Main Hospital, waiting for news about Fujioka Haruhi's condition.

"Here's what we know so far…yesterday afternoon she was kidnapped…"

.

"You're watching a live stream from the front entrance of Tokyo Main Hospital. We've been told someone will be making a statement soon…"

.

"I've just been informed via a tip called into our newsroom that the first person being flown out from the warehouse was none other than Himura Shinobu.

"She's currently the heir to the Himura Syndicate, the only female heir ever. She's also engaged to Kasanoda Ritsu, the heir to the Kasanoda Syndicate. That explains his presence.

"I repeat, Himura Shinobu also left the warehouse in the Kabukicho district via medical helicopter.

"This brings up new questions about yakuza involvement. Did they kidnap Fujioka-san? Was Himura-san involved? Why was she injured?..."

.

And on and on…

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Helipad, Tokyo Main:

"OR two is prepped and ready."

"I want cranial, facial, and hand x-rays before we head in."

"We need to clean her up before surgery."

"Depends on plastic surgeon and orthopedist."

"Takashi…"

"I thought she was unconscious?"

"Fading in and out from the shock."

"Takashi…"

"He's right behind us, Haruhi-sama. He's coming."

"Who…"

"It's me, Tezuka, the Morinozuka personal doctor. I'm here. Takashi-sama's coming."

"What sequence doctor?"

"Where…"

"X-rays then the consults. We'll go from there."

"Tokyo Main. The best doctors are ready to take care of you."

"Tezuka, you'll have to step back. Not enough room on the elevator."

"Takashi…"

"He's coming, sweetheart. Don't worry."

I watched the doors shut as the nurse was trying to comfort her. I'm not sure if they'll let Takashi-sama see her before surgery. It would sure help her calm down.

"Tezuka?"

I jerked around and saw that the other helicopter had landed while I was staring at the elevator doors.

"She's in good hands Akira-sama." I turned to Takashi-sama. When did he get taller than his father? "She was asking for you. As soon as the elevator returns, we'll go down and hopefully you can see her before she goes into surgery."

"You'll be monitoring her treatment?"

"Yes. I'll act as go-between for the doctors and the family."

The elevator chimed and we all climbed in, Takashi-sama and Yasuchika-sama at a run.

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Private Waiting Room, Tokyo Main:

Sagawa-sensei threw open the door, "Haruhi-sama's landed. They're taking her into x-ray now."

"Any more information on her injuries?" Umeko'd been pacing. It's so unlike her, but Haruhi-chan's become like a daughter to her. If Mitsukuni or Yasuchika was injured, I'm not sure I could sit still either.

"None yet. They'll know more after the x-rays. As soon as they're done, the plastic surgeon and the orthopedist will examine her and determine the treatment plan."

That's when Akira pushed him aside and dashed in. "Umeko!" She fell into his arms and immediately burst into tears.

"It's alright. She's here now. The doctors have her."

"Did you see her? How does she look?"

"I saw her being loaded onto the helicopter. She was already gone when my helicopter landed."

She looked over at Sagawa-sensei, "Can we see her?"

"Come with me. We'll try."

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Security Offices, Tokyo Main:

"I want that barricade pushed back another ten meters (~30 feet)."

"That's across the street, Ootori-sama."

"Correct." I glared at my security manager. "Get it done. There are fifty more BOS guards on their way to help."

"Yes, Sir."

"Is the parking garage clear?"

"Yes. The entrance is shut down and entry is allowed only after security approval."

"Good." My phone chimed again, and I started scrolling through my texts. "Himura Arrisa will be arriving soon with the Kasanoda security head, Fujii. Clear them through the parking garage and arrange an escort up to the private waiting room."

"You want a yakuza security head in the hospital."

"He won't be the last. Treat them like anyone else. This isn't about yakuza, but an injured girl."

"Yes, Sir."

I turned on my heel and headed for the door, "Tachibana, with me."

.

xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Phone Call Between Yokota [Deputy Superintendent Tokyo Metro Police] and Takaoka [Superintendent General - Head of Tokyo Metro Police]:

Yokota: "We've raided three so far."

Takaoka: "Only three? I thought you were ready."

Yokota: I knew it. He's going to pin every failure on me. "We didn't know the parts of town ahead of time. We stationed our teams in logical areas, but we couldn't cover everything. We were fortunate that three teams were so close to those locations."

Takaoka: "What did you find?"

Yokota: "The first didn't know anything was wrong. Raided and found fifteen women and girls, four muscle, and ten customers. Lighthouse has the victims. The rest were arrested and are being transported to the nearest station."

Takaoka: Not bad. "And the second?"

Yokota: "Didn't know we were coming either. Twenty-three women and girls, seven muscle, and nineteen customers. Lighthouse has the victims. The rest are in route to the nearest station."

Takaoka: "And third?"

Yokota: "Must have been tipped off. Caught them packing up documents. Smaller place. Eight victims, all underage, three muscle, and no customers"

Takaoka: "You have teams headed for the other locations?"

Yokota: "Yes, but it's a race now. Social media and the press have pictures of the arrests at the warehouse. If anyone at the locations knows those faces, they'll cut and run."

Takaoka: "Report again in an hour. It won't be long before the press finds out about the raids and puts everything together."

Yokota: Hopefully, we'll have all of them raided before that. "Yes, Sir."

Takaoka: "And Yokota?"

Yokota: "Yes, Sir?"

Takaoka: "Don't screw this up."

.

xXx

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Early, Early Morning, TV Station:

"Are you serious?"

I turned to my producer as he fell back in his seat. Wonder who's on the phone? Another tip?

"This better be right or you don't get a yen."

…

"Yeah, we'll pay more for anything else you get."

He hung up and spun in his chair to face me. "Get everyone in the field on a conference call. I finally know what it's all about."

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Helipad, Tokyo Main:

"Where's the Ophthalmologist!"

We radioed in. Told them the problems. Took us longer to get here since we decided to come halfway to the Kasanoda Compound. They had enough fucking time.

"Downstairs in the triage room. Won't do any good examining her eye while we're moving her."

"He should…"

"Shishkura, shut up," Shinobu-sama snapped. "If he's downstairs and ready, that's good enough."

"Through and through in the hip. No major arteries or organs hit."

"The trauma surgeon, maxillofacial specialist, and ophthalmologist will determine a treatment plan as soon as they see x-rays. She's going there first."

"When can I get a shower! I'm covered in dirt, sweat, blood, piss, and shit for fuck's sake." Even immobilized with her face covered, she's still intimidating.

"X-rays first. We need to clear your neck and see what's broken in your face. Nurses will clean you up after that."

"I want a shower."

"And I want a billion yen [~$10 million], but we don't always get what we want."

"I'll give you a billion yen for a shower."

The doctor just snorted as we crowded into the elevator. I don't think he realized she's serious.

.

The elevator doors closed on Bu and all those doctors before we touched down.

Once we were rerouted to Tokyo Main, Junto started arguing with me again about next of kin. I finally couldn't take it anymore and told him to 'shut the fuck up.' He's ignoring me now.

"Young Lord, the elevator's over here."

"I'm not waiting for it." I yanked open the stairwell door and started down two at a time.

"You don't even know what floor!" I heard echoing down at me.

"Then you better find out and text me before I run past it."

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As Tetsuya and I waited for the elevator, I thought about what my daughter had gotten herself into marrying that boy.

He definitely has the attitude of a yakuza boss already. Ryuu-san's the only one that can reign him in.

Except for Shinobu.

She seems to be able to keep him under control.

"Ground floor, emergency room," I heard him mumble as he hung up his phone and started texting. Ritsu would have known that if he'd been thinking.

We got on, and I pushed the button.

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Garage, Morinozuka Estate:

"But I want to ride with Kaoru. You can't keep me from my twin, dammit."

"Hikaru-sama, please get into the limo. All of Tokyo knows about the kidnapping and Tokyo Main. That means they know you all will be headed there. We're splitting everyone up for security purposes." He's always been difficult to guard, but sometimes I wish I could take him by the ear and drag him where I want him to go.

I heard Renge-sama's reassuring voice coming from a different limo. "I'll see you there, Tamaki-kun. Don't worry. I'll be fine. I'm riding with Satoshi after all."

"But my darling…"

Then she shut the door and headed for an unmarked SUV.

I climbed into the front seat of Hikaru-sama's limo, and we took off, Hikaru-sama still yelling in the back. Maybe we should have put him with Satoshi-sama.

.

"But why did Akito and Yuki get to leave first? It's been almost ten minutes. It's not fair. We were ready too."

"He's almost a doctor. Auntie thought having him there might help her understand what's going on." I squeezed Cho-chan's hand three times and smiled at her. "Hika-chan's limo just left. We're next."

We climbed in and drove down to the gates. I knew there'd be press. Ishikawa warned us. But I didn't expect there'd be this many.

I rolled down the divider, "Are there press at all the other estates?"

"No, Mitsukuni-sama," my detail head, Akatsuka replied. "Whoever tipped the press must have told them you were all here."

"Insider then."

"Yes. Ishikawa-sama's looking into it."

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xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Security Offices, Morinozuka Estate:

"I don't care who you have to wake up. I want to know who leaked…"

"I've just been informed that Fujioka Haruhi and Himura Shinobu were kidnapped by human traffickers. Details are still coming in, and we'll report as soon as…"

Everything stopped as we all focused on the TV. Ishikawa-sama stood and pulled his arm back, and I almost ducked expecting his teacup to shatter against the wall. Somehow, he stopped himself and took a deep breath.

"Leaker. Now."

Guards scrambled to phones and computers to figure it out.

I think I know.

I saw Stretch's assistant step out of the waiting room to make a call, and he wasn't calling Stretch.

That's the advantage to being the one to monitor where everyone is.

The question is, should I tell Ishikawa-sama?

Daiju's dead. So's his son.

No one else knew I was a spy.

I never made a call today, so there's nothing to trace. They never called so they didn't compromise me.

This job is actually kinda fun. The kids are crazy. Pixie and Stretch are finally together. It's about time. I was shipping them hard. Blondie and Diamond made up from their big fight, but I'm enjoying their drama. Watching Bunny make Cupcake eat his vegetables is a riot, plus he's grown quite a bit. Dancer's always good for a laugh. The girls he hangs around with are really hot. I think Doc and Bashful are getting closer to going for it. I might even win the pool. Sometimes watching Flame and Killer is like watching a train wreck, and other times they're perfect together. There's something up with Yen. He's got feelings for Pixie, and Strech isn't going to like it.

And working for the Hitachiin's and being around Thing 1 and Thing 2 is like waiting for a bomb to go off, but in a good way. Those idiots aren't malicious compared to a bunch of yakuza. They're harmless. And hysterical.

I think I'll stay where I am and keep my head down. If I'm lucky, no one will ever realize I was a spy.

Telling Ishikawa-sama about Yamamoto would bring attention to me. Attention that I don't want. Maybe I'll keep quiet about it. They were monitoring all the phones for a ransom demand. Once they start going through all the calls, they'll find it.

"Kurio?"

"Yes, Sir."

"Where is everyone?"

"Pix…Fujioka-sama, Takashi-sama, Yasuchika-sama, Shinobu-sama, and Kasanoda-sama are at Tokyo Main with both Morinozuka parents, both Haninozuka parents, Ootori-sama, Oshiro-sama, various assistants, private doctors, and Eiji-san. The rest of the group is in route to the hospital."

"Where are Hara-san and Endo-san?"

"They should be pulling up to Tokyo Main any minute." I put a camera showing the front entrance up on one of the screens. "There's quite a bit of press for them to deal with."

"Kasanoda Ryuu and Himura security head Hibino?"

"Unknown."

"Himura Arisa and Kasanoda's security head Fujii?"

"In route to Tokyo Main. They left as soon as they were told Shinobu-sama was going there instead of the Kasanoda Compound."

"Who's still at the warehouse?"

"Morimoto-sama, various BOS officers and squad leaders, the prosecutor Tomizawa and the Deputy Superintendent Yokota. They're coordinating the raids from there."

"Let me know when the group and Arisa-sama get to the hospital."

"Yes, Sir."

I hope he goes to bed when that happens. He's dead on his feet.

.

xXx

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Early, Early Morning, Private Waiting Room, Tokyo Main:

Everyone in the room jumped a bit when the door opened.

Morinozuka-sama and Morinozuka-sama looked relieved. They must have been able to see Haruhi-sama. I couldn't tell how Takashi-sama and Yasuchika-sama felt. They're both so stoic.

"He got to see her," Yamamoto-san whispered in my ear. Now that those two are dating, he and I work together more often, even with him moving off the estate. We're able to coordinate their schedules easier since we shared their calendars with each other.

"How can you tell? His face is blank."

"I've been with him long enough to see it in his eyes. They're not as hard as I'd expect."

Yasuchika-sama came in and collapsed in a chair near the window, clearly distancing himself. His mother's brow furrowed as she stared at him.

"They're both in surgery." That's Tezuka-sensei, the Morinozuka doctor. I've seen him around the estate. He flew in with Haruhi-sama. "The plastic surgeon is closing the cut on Haruhi-sama's face while the orthopedist consults with a few colleagues to determine the best approach to removing the knife."

"Shinobu-sama's being treated for her gunshot wound. Once they deal with that, she'll go for eye tests. If it is a detached retina, it can be treated within the next day or two and still be fine. The ophthalmologist, Minoru Takeji, is the best in the country. He won't let anything happen to her."

"Who's that?" I asked Yamamoto.

"Not sure, but I'd guess it's the Himura family doctor. He was flying in with her."

"We won't know anything about either one for at least an hour. You all should get something to eat and stretch your legs."

.

I walked in just as the Haninozuka doctor told them all to eat something. Perfect timing.

I cleared my throat to get everyone's attention. "There's another private waiting room across the hall. I've catered in a light buffet for you all including a coffee bar and barista. It will be kept stocked until they're both settled into patient rooms."

"Thank you, Ootori-san." Umeko-san nodded slightly, acknowledging the service.

"Of course. Please let me or any staff member know if you need anything else. They have directions to provide you with whatever you require."

I stepped out into the hallway to check my texts and they all slowly trickled out of the waiting room headed for the food. I thought noodles, grilled vegetables, and fish were appropriate. No sushi and especially no fancy tuna.

"Ootori."

I looked up to see Kasanoda headed down the hallway. I pointed to my left, "That's the private waiting room." Then to my right, "Most of them are in there eating. The buffet will be stocked until they are in patient rooms."

He headed to my right without an acknowledgement. Not that I expected one. He's still angry about how I treated Haru when her father died and before that with the marriage contract and blackmail. Sometimes, when he glares at me, I consider myself lucky he didn't kill me back then.

"Thank you," Tetsuya said quietly as he passed me. I nodded back.

.

xXx

.

Early, Early Morning, Outside Warehouse:

"The Black Onion Squad has been assisting the police with arresting the kidnappers of Fujioka Haruhi."

I paused to take a breath, and the reporters pounced…

"What about Himura Shinobu? Was she a victim?"

"Did she kidnap Fujioka?"

"What are their injuries?"

I stood and stared them down, waiting for quiet. I didn't get to be the head of Black Onion Squad PR without a good glare.

The Himura Syndicate agreed to a very small amount of information release. I argued for more. They've never been in a situation like this. The press will be relentless until they finally make a real statement.

Once they finally shut up, I continued. "Himura Shinobu is a victim as well. She, in no way, had a part in Fujioka's kidnapping."

"Why was she kidnapped?"

"Where…"

I raised my voice over their questions, "I am making a statement. Hold your questions until the end." It's like they've never been to a press conference before. "The police will be making a statement later this morning regarding the crimes committed and their arrests. Fujioka's and Himura's injuries are not life-threatening. They are currently being treated at Tokyo Main." Like there's anyone left in Tokyo that doesn't know that.

I paused for another breath and…

"Our station has inside information stating that this entire operation is about Human trafficking. Does the Black Onion Squad have a comment?"

Shit.

"The Black Onion Squad has no comment. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police will address that at their press conference later today."

Ootori-sama was clear. He wanted them to confirm that.

"That's it. We're done."

I turned and headed back to the command SUV and Morimoto. What a mess.

.

xXx

.

Early, Early Morning, Parking Garage, Tokyo Main:

As soon as the limo stopped, I jerked open the door. Arisa practically spilled out into my arms.

"Junto? Where is she? Where's my baby?"

I held her eyes with mine. Her beautiful face was a wreck with tears and red blotches. Over her shoulder, I saw Fujii-san climb out the other side of the limo.

"She's in surgery for her hip."

"She was shot…"

I nodded. Shishkura, our doctor, briefed her as they drove in. "She's going to be fine. Through and through. Didn't hit anything important. They just have to clean it out and sew it up." I pulled her tightly to my chest. "Not like Rin. She'll be fine."

If I couldn't stop the images of my son's body from coming, I know she couldn't.

"Did you see her?"

I hugged my wife even tighter. "I did. She was yelling and cussing the entire time." That got a small chuckle. "The docs didn't know what hit them."

She pulled back from my embrace and looked around, "Where's Ritsu-kun?"

"Upstairs. Ootori-san provided a private room and set up some food. That's where everyone is waiting." Putting my arm around her waist, I started guiding her towards the elevator.

"Who's everyone?"

"The Haninozuka's, Morinozuka's, Ritsu, and various security and staff."

"Are you sure they want us there?"

Our security escort hit the button for the first floor and the doors closed. "Morinozuka Akira personally invited me. We're welcome to wait with them. This isn't about yakuza. This is about both our girls being taken care of."

.

xXx

.

Early, Early Morning, Private Waiting Room with Buffet, Tokyo Main:

Honami (Haruhi's Assistant): I tried to eat as quickly as I could while not being rude. There's so much to do. I already called Haruhi-sama's grandmother. She wanted to come right away, but Umeko-sama was firm. No visitors until tomorrow. We're still not sure about her hand surgery.

I have her phone with me but will need to go back to the estate and get her laptop after the techs finish installing some new software. She won't be able to use her right hand for a while, so they're making it work with voice commands instead of the mouse. I'll get her schoolbooks at the same time. Knowing her, she won't want to get behind no matter what.

That Inokuma-san, her agent, keeps bothering me with questions about her schedule. Umeko-sama finally told him to wait for PR to show up. He looks like he needs his blood pressure checked.

Good thing we're at a hospital.

.

Inokuma (Haruhi's Agent): Unbelievable. How do none of these people understand the shit-show we've stepped in.

Human trafficking?

And I can't get the answers I need. They're holding information back.

Sure, I'm an unknown, but dammit, I'm her agent. I signed one of the ugliest non-disclosures I've ever seen. They can talk to me. I need to get in front of all this mess.

Hara and Endo should be here soon. They know they'll need me.

.

Yorihisa: I'll have to thank Ootori-san for the food. Kumi needed a good meal. I'm not sure how I'm going to get her to rest.

"I'm fine," she whispered. I felt her hand squeeze my knee. "You worry too much."

"You need to sleep."

"I will. Soon."

Not soon enough.

.

Tetsuya: The young lord and I hadn't eaten for hours, so our plates were piled high as we sat down next to Shishkura-sensei, the Himura doctor. He nodded at us and looked back down at his tablet. I could see medical diagrams of eyes and skulls.

"Something you need to tell me?"

He jumped at the young lord's voice. "No. I'm not an eye specialist, so I'm reviewing the anatomy." He chewed a bite of noodles and swallowed. "Japan's best ophthalmologist is her doctor. She'll be fine, Kasanoda-sama."

"She better, or I'll eat his liver."

His face went an interesting shade of green as he swiped through diagrams. The Kasanoda's are more cut-throat than the Himura's. I think the doc can't decide if Ritsu-sama's serious or not.

"Or maybe I'll feed it to Bu's dog."

He went even greener.

.

Chika: He doesn't know he did it.

I've been watching him since we ran into that warehouse, and I can tell. He doesn't know he killed that man.

He never looked at the body. Didn't give it a single glance when she was wheeled out.

He only had eyes for her.

Will it be enough for him to know he did it for Haruhi?

How will he live with it, knowing he took a life?

These vegetables taste like cardboard. Ootori had the meal catered, so I'm sure it's me and not the chef.

I can't get the image of her strapped to that chair with that knife through her hand out of my head. I see it every time I blink.

I wish I had killed him.

I could live with it.

.

Inoue (Haruhi's Therapist): Haruhi-chan's gathered quite a group of friends and family to her. I've heard about most of them during our sessions and googled them to put faces to names, but nothing compares to meeting them in person.

She'll recover much quicker because of them all.

"When do you want to talk with her, Inoue-sensei?"

I set my chopsticks down and gave Umeko-sama my full attention. I don't think she's going to like my answer.

"I've spoken with Tezuka-sensei. The orthopedist will need more scans before they know the best way to remove the knife and treat the injury. Haruhi-chan could be having tests or be in surgery or recovery for most of the day."

"That's my understanding as well."

My eyes swept the room again then came back to Umeko-sama. "She has a tremendous amount of support here. I'm concerned my presence right as she's coming out of recovery and being settled into her room might make it harder for her to talk about what happened, rather than easier."

"But…"

"She has a lot to process and probably won't be ready to discuss it with me for a few days. However," I pushed forward when she was about to protest, "I'll be here if she wants to."

That got me a relieved smile.

"After I finish this, I'm going home to sleep and see another patient. I'll be back in the afternoon when she's most likely to be alert. You can call me in earlier if she wishes." I gave her my serious doctor face, "However, speaking with me must be her choice. Forcing or rushing her will only do harm."

"I understand. Aoi will call if Haruhi-chan needs you before you come back."

That's when three people I didn't recognize came in.

.

Akira: I stood to welcome the new arrivals. "Junto-san," I gave a shallow bow. Umeko, Kumi, and Yorihisa joined me, and introductions were made.

Umeko immediately took the role of hostess. "Please join us for a light meal." She led us back to the large table in the middle, "Both girls are still in surgery. Someone will inform us the instant they are being moved to recovery." She signaled the barista, "Would you care for coffee?"

I'd met Junto and Fujii at the warehouse, but this was my first time seeing Shinobu-san's mother.

She was nervous.

And not just because of her daughter. She was nervous being around us. Because of our position in society. I know very little about the yakuza, especially the women who are notoriously kept from view. Shinobu-chan's the only exception I know of.

When I caught her glancing at me, I gave her what I hoped was a reassuring smile. She returned it quickly and went back to her noodles.

I'll let Umeko and Kumi work on her. They'll relax her in no time.

.

Aoi (Umeko's Assistant): As I stepped out into the hall to return a phone call, Ootori-sama approached me.

"Aoi-san?" I nodded, surprised he knew who I was. "I've arranged several suites for the families with the hotel next door." He handed me a folder. "Information and key cards are in there. As Umeko-san's assistant, I thought it best for you to distribute as needed."

"Thank you, Ootori-sama. I know Umeko-sama and the others will appreciate it." I found four key cards for each of five hotel suites along with information for each.

"The patient rooms the girls will be assigned have an attached guest room, but it's not big enough for everyone wishing to stay close." He gestured to a man and woman walking up to us. "I'd also like you to meet the hospital administrator and his assistant. They can provide anything needed."

I spoke with them for a few minutes, explaining the logistics as I currently understood them, knowing that things could change in an instant depending on the girls' conditions.

"I believe we have everything we need to be comfortable while waiting. Security, however, is a concern."

"I'd like to be included in this conversation, please," Eiji-san said as he rolled out of the room into the hallway. He's acting as Oshiro-san's contact here, but for how long? After failing Haruhi-sama, his continued involvement perplexes me, but I've kept quiet. It's not my business how security conducts its business.

"Of course." Ootori-sama included him in the discussion but didn't hide his distaste.

.

Yamamoto (Mori's Assistant):

I finished filling up a second plate and sat down next to Honami-san who was rapidly typing on her laptop. With everything being so crazy here, I wasn't sure when I'd eat next. My phone chimed, and I checked my email:

Yamamoto,

Below is a list of things I need brought here from the apartment. Please check with Mitsukuni before you go (he should be here any minute) and see if he needs anything.

Be back by breakfast.

Thanks,

T

There was a list of clothing, personal items, and electronics under his signature.

I looked across the room and saw him staring out the window, his plate still full in front of him.

Yasuchika-sama nudged him. "Eat something, Takashi. You need to be strong for her."

"Hn." He took a couple small bites then focused back out the window.

.

Ritsu: Crazy wife.

When this is all over, I'm never letting her out of my sight.

Ever.

"Kasanoda-sama?" I looked up at Umeko-san's assistant and raised a brow. She handed me an envelope. "There are keys and information for a suite in the hotel next door for the Kasanoda's to use as needed. The Himura's will also get one."

I took the envelope. "Who…?"

"Ootori-sama arranged it."

"Oh."

Fucking Kyoya.

It's hard to want to kill him when he acts like he's human.

"Thanks."

.

xXx

.

Early, Early Morning, Outside Tokyo Main:

"Yes, Chairwoman, you can make the announcement as soon as classes start."

I hung up the phone and looked out the window.

"Oh, no."

My feelings exactly. But Endo-san is much younger than I am. She hasn't had to deal with the press like this before. There were at least a hundred.

"How do we get them to leave?"

"We don't."

"But…"

"All we can do is tell them what we're prepared to tell them and let security decide if they need them gone." I gave her a quick smile and looked her over. That suit needs to be switched out. "Who do you contact when you need another Every Woman suit?"

"Mao, Hitachiin-sama's assistant."

"Better give her a call. You'll need three more. One for now." I pointed at the coffee stain on her shirt, and she blushed. "And two for backups or when it's time to change." I'd already texted my assistant to meet me at the hospital with three of mine.

"Yes, Hara-sama."

Despite security, our car had to slow down considerably to go past the front entrance of the hospital. They'd moved the reporters across the street, but cars were driving by full of other press, onlookers, and fans.

"First thing is to meet with Tokyo Main's head PR rep. He's meeting us in the parking garage. Then, we'll need full updates from the doctors."

The car turned the corner and was cleared through the security checkpoint. They weren't kidding around. Over two dozen BOS guards and hospital security forming an arch around the entrance to the parking garage. Not trying to be discreet at all.

A tall man in his late forties opened the door for us as soon as we stopped.

"Hara-san?" I climbed out of the car and nodded.

"I'm Matsushita, Tokyo Main PR. Guess will be trying to tame the beast together."

I like him already.

"This is Endo-san. She's Fujioka-sama's personal PR rep and will be assisting us." They bowed and we all headed for the elevator. "What's the status?"

That got me a snort. "The status is we're inundated. You saw the front when you drove up?"

"Yes."

"Security's been stopping people at all entrances. Calls are coming in and are two or three deep on hold. Our social media accounts are being tagged so fast we can't keep up. Frankly," the elevator chimed, and we walked out, "it hasn't been this bad since the last terrorist attack."

"That bad?" Endo-san murmured.

"It's a perfect storm," he said as he led us down a hallway. "Young, innocent girls, crime, celebrity, sex, injury, blood, and the elite of Japan. No one's going to be talking about anything but this for weeks."

"Unfortunately, I agree with your assessment." Too bad we couldn't create a natural disaster without hurting anyone. Maybe something terrible will happen in another country.

"They're all in here. Ootori-sama set up a buffet which will be kept fresh for the time being. We've prepared the PR/Media conference room for this mess. It's got printers, secure Wi-Fi, TVs, and lots of coffee. I can show you there when we're done here."

"Thank you, Matsushita-san. It's going to be a pleasure working with someone on top of things like you are."

With that, we opened the door and headed in to talk to the parents and doctors.

.

xXx

.

Early, Early Morning, Private Waiting Room with Buffet, Tokyo Main:

Fucking great. I can hear them from all the way down the hall.

"Where is she? Where's my darling friend?"

"Are we going to see Takashi?"

"I'm sure we'll see him soon, Mitsukuni."

And they're coming closer.

Akira-san met them at the door. "This is a hospital. It is three o'clock in the morning. Please lower your voices."

At least Tamaki-senpai had the decency to look ashamed. He wouldn't have done that before Haruhi and Renge got to him.

Hikaru, on the other hand…"Where is she? Where's Haruhi?"

"Come in and sit down. We'll update you while you're eating."

"No. I want to know where she is. I want to know when you knew this was about human trafficking. I want to know how the fuck Haruhi got involved with it." Then he spun around and pointed at me, "Was Shinobu trafficking girls? Is that why this happened?"

I saw red…

"QUIET!"

.

Everyone in the hospital probably heard the young lord yell. Everyone in the room jumped at the volume. His face matched his hair, and his chest was heaving.

"You are a fucking idiot, Hikaru, if you think for one second Bu could be involved in anything like that. Now," he pointed to a table, "sit down and shut up. All of you."

None of them decided to put their life on the line, so they all sat.

"Bu's been trying to take the ring apart. They were after her. Haruhi was taken as leverage. End of story."

"But Kasanoda, what about…"

"I think that's enough for now," Yorihisa-sama spoke up as he joined Akira-sama. He'd been struck silent by the young lord's outburst. "I'll let the doctors update you on the girls' condition and we'll wait for explanations. The important thing is the girls are safe now."

"He's right, Hika. Please calm down. All the rest of that can wait. We're here for Haruhi, remember?"

"Whatever."

"But…"

"Tamaki-kun," Renge-sama put her arm around him, "let's hear what the doctors have to say. We have plenty of time for the rest now that they've been rescued."

.

Well, they sure know how to make an entrance. I stood up and started briefing them. "As most of you know, I'm Tezuka, the Morinozuka private doctor. I accompanied Haruhi-sama in on the helicopter and was with her until she went into surgery a short time ago."

"Surgery…"

"Yes, she has a long cut on the left side of her face, from hairline to jaw." I traced where it would be on my own face. "Misawa-sensei, Tokyo's best plastic surgeon, is working on closing it now. He's anticipating minimal scaring despite the wide blade that was used."

"Her face…" That was one of those twins. I can never tell them apart.

"The otolaryngologist…"

"The what?"

"Throat doctor," one of them answered.

"Oh."

"The otolaryngologist has come and gone. There was a small nick at the base of her throat, and he was called in as a precaution. It didn't require stiches."

One of the girls went white and started to sway. The one who knew the specialty put his arm around her, "It's alright, Yuki-chan. She's fine." He's older than the rest. Is he a doctor?

"But that means they held a knife to her throat."

"Yes," he squeezed her, "but she's fine."

I cleared my throat and continued. "Once her facial surgery is finished, she'll go for more x-rays and a CT scan of her hand. Oinuma-sensei, the best orthopedist in Tokyo, and her staff will then determine the best way to remove the knife and treat the injury."

"She still has the knife in her fucking hand?!"

"Hika!" One twin pulled the other back into his seat.

The older one turned and glared at him. "Any first-year medical student or anyone who's watched a movie knows not to pull out a penetrating object. The knife could be the only thing keeping her from bleeding out. It could be what's holding everything in there together. The doctor needs to know what it cut, what it's next to, and all the angles before it can be removed. Now please be quiet."

Hikaru-sama jerked away from his brother, folded his arms across his chest, and threw himself back in his seat. Boy needs to grow up.

"Exactly," I nodded to the older one. Wonder why I haven't met him before. I know Yuki-sama at least by sight. "Once they have a plan, she'll go back into surgery for that."

"Can we see her before then?"

"It's risky to put her under anesthesia, bring her out, and then put her back under. She'll be kept out in between so the scans aren't painful and to put her at less risk."

"Oh."

"It's alright, Honey-kun. We'll see her when they're done with her hand."

I answered several more questions before Cho-sama asked, "What about Shinobu?"

"Shishkura-sensei, the Himura doctor, will brief you on her."

He stood but stayed at his table. "She was shot in the hip and is in surgery for that now…"

I tuned him out as he updated them. I knew all this already.

"Tezuka-sensei?" I looked up from my coffee to see the older one standing in front of me. "I'm Ootori Akito. After finals this week, I have one more semester of medical school left."

That's who this is. I should have recognized him. He looks a lot like his little brother.

"It's good to meet you, Ootori-san."

"If it's alright with you, I'd like to accompany you back when you go. I can help keep the family informed."

"I appreciate it." I finished my espresso and set the cup down. "You handled Hikaru-sama well. I'm sure that particular skill will be needed again soon."

"And often."

.

When the Himura doctor was done, I stood and asked for quiet.

"I've met most of you, but for those of you I haven't, I'm Hara Hiroe, head of the Morinozuka public relations department." I bowed and scanned the room. "Now that the kidnapping and rescue have been confirmed by the media, you will no doubt be flooded with calls, texts, and emails from friends and acquaintances."

"No shit," that loud twin said. "Everybody and their dog's been blowing up my phone."

"I finally turned my notifications off."

"My voice mail is full."

I nodded, suspecting as much. Haruhi-sama's voice mail has filled up at least a dozen times. "I suggest you change your voice mail messages to something that indicates you are not accepting calls and to not leave messages. An out-of-office email response for your email accounts is also recommended."

Then Yasuchika-sama stood, "If any of you want to block everyone but certain contacts, I can show you how."

.

How the fuck can everyone be so calm?

Human fucking trafficking! And Haruhi mixed up in it?

What happened to her? Was she trafficked? Raped? I don't even know how to ask. I don't even know if I want to know.

And Shinobu? What the fuck was she doing taking a trafficking ring down on her own? She's the reason Haruhi was taken.

Bitch.

"Hika, calm down. How is this helping Haruhi?"

"Fuck you, Kaoru. You're just as upset as I am."

"Yeah. I guess I am."

"Then shut up and let me be angry."

.

"Satoshi," Mitsukuni elbowed me then nodded towards Hikaru-senpai, "we need to be ready."

"Got it."

Thing is, I'm probably as angry as he is.

"Boys!" Everyone turned to see Yuzuha, the twin's mother, burst into the room. She ran straight to them, pulling them both into a huge hug.

Maybe she can keep Hikaru from losing it.

.

Am I keeping something from Tamaki-kun if I don't help him connect the dots?

Kasanoda practically said that Shinobu got Haruhi kidnapped, but Tamaki-kun either didn't catch it or has gone blank in anger.

This whole thing is a powder keg.

.

xXx

.

Early, Early Morning, Security Officers throughout Tokyo Main:

"Sir, I must confiscate your camera. They aren't allowed in the emergency room."

"But…"

I smirked down at him and deadpanned, "I doesn't matter if you got hurt just to get in here and get pictures of Fujioka-sama. You'll get your camera back, without the chip, when you're discharged."

Idiot.

.

I was standing my post at an emergency exit on the ground floor when one of the Hitachiin PPD came up.

"I'm here to relieve you. Oshiro-sama's called a full briefing for all officers this morning at nine. Until then, you're off duty."

About time. I'm asleep on my feet.

"Thanks." I should have taken off, but I had to ask, "Why you?"

"All the group PPD's have been staying fresh for when they came here. We're relieving guards all over the hospital."

.

As a member of Mitsukuni-sama's PPD, I hadn't been doing anything this whole time. I was getting twitchy sitting it out. They put me on Fujioka-sama's temporary detail.

"How is she?"

The Morinozuka guard standing outside the OR nodded when he recognized me. "The nurse thinks another twenty minutes, then they'll move her for a scan." He checked is watch, "You relieving me?"

"Yeah. Briefing at nine. Get some rest."

"Thanks."

.

"Yamada. I'm Cho-sama's detail head. Ishikawa wanted me to join you so I could keep him updated."

The main guard at the parking garage entrance looked me up and down. "He's still awake?"

"He was headed for a nap when the group left the estate. I'll be reporting to his second, Yonekura-sama."

"Alright. It's been quiet. After running off a couple batches of reporters, the rest seem to have realized they can't get through here. But we're still turning back a few and some cars."

"Where are patients and visitors being diverted?"

.

"So, this is the bullpen?"

"Yep."

I took a seat in front of a TV and sat back. Those of us without a specific person or post to relieve were waiting here for an assignment or an emergency. Several of the guys here were dozing, getting whatever rest they could get.

"It's going to be an ugly couple of days."

"Yep."

.

I cringed again when Hikaru-sama yelled at Kasanoda-sama. I'm guarding the room from the outside and could hear him through the door.

Should I go in?

My brother and I have guarded the twins for a few years, and have gotten used to his outbursts, but this is bad.

"So, one more semester. What's your specialty?"

"Psychology."

Tezuka-sensei, Shishkura-sensei, and Akito-sama left and headed for the operating rooms; I assume to get an update. I looked in through the open door and raised a brow at Karou-sama. He waived me off, nodded toward Mitsukuni-sama and Satoshi-sama.

Apparently, they don't need me in the room.

Fine with me.

.

"Her father really was an asshole, wasn't he?"

"Definitely. Her team reported everything she did directly to him."

"And her last two leads were fuckups."

"I'm not sure I'd go that far…"

"One got knocked out and shoved into a toilet stall in a public restroom by an amateur. The other broke protocol and not only identified the nature of the code but who it was about, and he did it in public." Numata-san glared at me, "I'd say they were fuckups."

"When you put it that way, I'd have to agree."

"Well," he slapped me on the back, and I tried hard not to stumble, "you and I will keep those two safe, Teraughi-san. With their wedding in the spring, we'll be working closely from now on."

He may be rough around the edges, but he's growing on me. Watching him interact with Yuki-chan was enough to convince me he has her best interests at heart.

"Yes, we will."

We turned back to stare out the front entrance. We relieved the second line of defense and will run sweeps on those determined to actually have business in the hospital.

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Dai's Private Offices, Chiba Syndicate Compound:

"Daiju and Daikichi are dead."

My wife, Kyoko, closed her eyes and slumped back in her seat, but my daughter-in-law decided to shriek. "What? My husband and son are what?"

"Dead. They were killed running a trafficking ring without my approval."

"You killed them?" It came out as a gasp. Noriko's never been my favorite person, but her marrying my son was a good business deal. It kept us out of a war all those years ago.

"No."

"Then who?" She'd gotten fat as she aged, not bouncing back from each kid. And the kimono she was wearing didn't help.

"Daiju kidnapped the wrong people. He and Daikichi were killed in the rescue."

"That shit on the news?"

"Yeah, that shit on the news."

My wife turned her back on Noriko. "What do you mean they didn't have your approval?"

"Just that. They were running a huge human trafficking ring. Multiple locations, hundreds of girls, billions of yen, all without my knowledge or permission."

She nodded and turned back to her, "Your husband broke a cardinal rule. Don't fuck with the Head."

"He's your son!"

"Was my son. He's gone now. Once he made the choice to betray Dai, he sealed his fate." She shrugged, "He knew better." I knew that'd be her reaction. She's been a yakuza wife for over fifty years.

She looked back at me, "Now what?"

"Now, we leave the country."

"What? Why?"

"Be silent, Noriko," my wife hissed. "This is Daiju's fault, and we will accept the consequences."

I finished my second sake. "Daiju kidnapped Himura Shinobu, who, as you know, is engaged to Kasanoda Ritsu. Ryuu-sama was not pleased. And Daiju didn't stop there. He also kidnapped Fujioka Haruhi, the Morinozuka ward. She's currently dating the heir. That brought in the Morinozuka's, Haninozuka's, and the Black Onion Squad. We're lucky they killed them quickly."

"And the consequences?"

"We're leaving Japan. Only the family and personal servants. And only with personal wealth. I'll be turning over the entire Chiba Syndicate to Himura Shinobu in compensation."

"What do the Morinozuka's get?"

Kyoko rolled her eyes at Noriko's stupid question. "Us out of the country. They don't want our money."

"Exactly. We have twenty-four hours. We'll be taking our yacht and helicopter. Get whatever you need packed and over to the dock. I'll liquidate what I can and get the money transferred."

"Where are we going?"

"I'm not sure yet. I'm putting the money in the Caribbean for now."

I stood and silenced Noriko with a glare. "We're lucky we got this deal. Ryuu-sama could have asked for all our heads."

And I walked out leaving my wife to explain.

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Phone Call Between Yokota [Deputy Superintendent Tokyo Metro Police] and Takaoka [Superintendent General - Head of Tokyo Metro Police]:

Yokota: "We've completed four more raids with mixed results."

Takaoka: I shouldn't have to ask him. But it's late and we're both tired. "And?"

Yokota: "Fourth was a private home. Upscale. They weren't tipped. We got a full sweep of ten women, seven muscle, and three customers. Most of the women were asleep. Lighthouse has them."

Takaoka: "Good. Next."

Yokota: "This one was ugly." Or, uglier than the others. "It was a love hotel. We were told the 'No Vacancy' sign was always lit. All rooms used for trafficking. Twenty-two women and girls. Most of them drugged into compliance or unconsciousness. Four had to be airlifted to hospitals. Seventeen muscle. They'd been tipped and were ready. Three shot and killed. Thirty customers. Some resisted."

Takaoka: "I assume the arresting officers didn't take it easy on them."

Yokota: "No, Sir. I went to the scene. I don't blame them."

Takaoka: I have to see how the reports are filed before I comment. "Next."

Yokota: "This was a bar. We ended up arresting everyone and will sort it all out at the station. Four girls (they were all underage) were held in the back. Seven muscle, including all the bar employees. Twenty-seven customers in the bar and in the back. They had the news on and were just putting it together when the team broke in."

Takaoka: "And the last one?"

Yokota: "It was a warehouse holding new women and girls. Forty of them. Most from out of the country. Lighthouse is sorting out nationalities and getting translators. No customers. Fifteen muscle. They were burning documents and arguing about who was going to kill the girls when we got there."

Takaoka: "All the girls alive?"

Yokota: "Yes, Sir."

Takaoka: "That leaves two more."

Yokota: "Units are on their way now, but they've had plenty of time to be tipped."

Takaoka: "How are Lighthouse's resources? They've got to be spread pretty thin by now."

Yokota: "The Black Onion Squad and Ootori Medical are filling in the gaps where they can. Ootori Medical's handling all the ambulance and helicopter transportation, and they have doctors with each group."

Takaoka: Right. I rubbed my temples. He told me that already. "The second you know about the last two, call me."

Yokota: "Yes, Sir."

.

xXx

.

Author's Note:

And they're finally at the hospital. Almost 10k words to get us about three hours further. So many people. So many arcs. So many subplots. Don't want to cheat you.

With the escort helicopter, buffet, and hotel suites, Ritsu might just have to admit Kyoya's human. Some of you have asked, and I am working on a redemption arc for Kyoya. And NO – he won't be getting back with Haruhi. He truly killed that. (Though that hasn't stopped me from thinking about how in the world I would do it…only thing I can come up with is maybe 10/15 years down the road after Haruhi/Mori have kids and Kyoya/Arranged wife have kids and I kill Mori and arranged wife off…but that's not happening here. Don't worry.)

Press craziness will only be getting worse. I'll be using media clips and twitter to get that across rather than going into detail. Hope that's working for you.

Lighthouse is going to be busy with all the rescued victims from the police raids. Dad and I have been kicking around various ideas about how involved the group (and individuals within the group, specifically, Haruhi/Bu/Kyoya) should get in fighting human trafficking. I'd like to hear your opinions. At some point, we're going to have to let it go and get back to the story or it will become something none of us every thought it would be and odds are something I don't want to write and you don't want to read.

I think after everything they'd been through, I'd pay a billion yen for a shower too…

So…what do you think of my solution with the spy? It's really the only thing that makes sense and has the added bonus of being funny. We need to keep him around if for no other reason than his sense of humor.

Sometimes I feel the need to point out something I'm particularly proud of in a chapter. This time it's the scene with Dai, his wife, and his daughter-in-law. His wife's cold, but not heartless. Not sure it came out right, but she raised Daiju, but he made his choices. Yes, she loves her son and grandson, but they knew the consequences. She'll do her grieving in private. I think it's fitting Bu gets all the syndicate stuff. What's she going to do with it all?

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Next Chapter:

Results of the last two raids…leaker discovered and consequences…lots of press releases and conferences…the uni kids start finals…surgeries end and recovery begins…and Chika tells Mori…

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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.