SCIAW: Chapter 401/406

Chapter 401 Father-in-law and Mother-in-law's Identity is Certain

After hearing this, Ayako finally understood the consequences of arresting Kaito Kid.

As a thief, being jailed by the police might not last long, but being locked up is already the best outcome.

Once he is caught even once, there will be no more Kaito Kid in the future.

With his identity revealed, he becomes nothing more than an ordinary thief.

Once he is defined as a thief, his entire life will carry that brand.

This is the final end.

Ayako understood and nodded slightly. Then, the true purpose of this 60th anniversary became clear. It was to capture Kaito Kid and put him in prison.

"Has Sonoko arrived?"

The topic of Kaito Kid came to an end, and Tomoko turned the conversation to her younger daughter.

"They are already here."

When talking about her sister, Ayako put away her serious, sharp demeanor and returned to the gentle older sister she used to be.

"They all came together. Besides them, several others were invited as well."

"Oh, others?"

Tomoko became interested immediately.

"The others are all members of the Hakuo Academy student council. They each have their own background, and there is also the young lady from the Hatamoto conglomerate."

The mention of the Hatamoto conglomerate made Tomoko pause for a moment.

"Wasn't that conglomerate on the verge of collapse just a few days ago?"

"Yes, it was close. But a few months ago, they ran into Sonoko and her friends during a return cruise. After that, a drama of internal conflict unfolded right in front of them. Gozo Hatamoto almost died at the hands of his own grandson."

"But Miss Hatamoto, in order to save her grandfather, seems to have become a follower of Mr. Fool. She received a gift of power from him. Later, she managed to gain some breathing room financially and then saved the Hatamoto conglomerate."

Now Tomoko finally understood the situation.

"The Hatamoto conglomerate is quite fortunate. To save her grandfather from being killed by his own grandson, the eldest daughter of the family obtained the power to change her fate. Ayako, it seems you should stay in contact with Miss Hatamoto."

Of course, Tomoko knew who Mr. Fool was.

Since she had received a gift of power from their future son-in-law, she would most likely become one of their own in the future.

If that was the case, Tomoko naturally had no objections to Ayako building ties with Natsue Hatamoto.

"By the way, is your friend here today as well?"

Speaking of another person who had received the gift of power, Tomoko was still somewhat concerned.

Afterward, she learned from Ayako about what had happened to her college friend. From her perspective, and from the results of the investigation, that friend was quite unlucky.

She had been prepared to be blackmailed, but no one expected the original author of the problem to have such a bad temper and retaliate in the most violent way.

The means that had been prepared for defense could not be used as evidence for the time being.

In a way, he was also an unlucky person.

However, it was precisely because of such excessive bad luck that his fate took a turn for the better.

In addition to his own abilities and the gift he received, Ayako's friend could now be considered to have entered one of the important plans of the Suzuki conglomerate in the film and television industry.

"Yes, Chikako is here as well."

Ayako had naturally invited Chikako to the banquet.

They had already agreed during the last gathering at the forest annex that she would attend the 60th anniversary of the conglomerate.

Of course, Ayako also understood that this event was essentially an internal gathering.

"Recently, Chikako has been reading a lot to build up her knowledge. She plans to start writing some stories in the near future."

"Because she also carries the mission of spreading faith, it may take her a bit longer to come up with ideas."

Tomoko nodded slightly. The construction of a story could not be completed in a day or two. Additionally, incorporating new elements of faith into the story would require more time.

She did not care much about how long it took. With the resources they had, even if things progressed slowly, they could speed up at any time.

"After today's banquet, you and your friends can also meet with our son-in-law. At the very least, you need to see what kind of religious themes he has in mind. The stories he is involved in should be much more interesting than the stories your friend tries to build alone."

Ayako nodded slightly. In fact, she had the same idea.

The power that Ren holds clearly has other sequences, and the abilities surrounding those sequences could form a very large and fascinating worldview.

This fits perfectly with Ren's mission of spreading faith.

After all, no story someone constructs on their own could be more interesting than one based on a real power system.

"Mom, Dad, I'll go and talk to Chikako."

"Alright, go on."

Tomoko smiled and told her eldest daughter to go talk with her friends.

Ayako turned around and left.

Tomoko watched with satisfaction.

"This child has grown a lot recently."

Shiro nodded in agreement. He had also seen her efforts and growth, and he acknowledged it.

"The difference in identity and circumstances has created a completely different personality from before. Her soft nature has always been her problem, but now, she has changed a little."

"Yes. After all, it comes from confidence gained through strength."

"It all comes down to strength."

Tomoko rolled her eyes at him.

"Don't always define Ayako's change as just the result of strength. Her own efforts are also important."

"Besides, you are already so old, and yet you still covet that kind of power. Didn't your son-in-law say that he would give it to you when he officially comes next time?"

"What man could remain calm when faced with the temptation of power?"

Shiro spoke with full confidence.

"And it's not just me as the father-in-law. You, as the mother-in-law, are the same."

Looking at her husband, who was already old yet still playful and childish, Tomoko did not know whether to laugh or sigh.

Power, huh?

She had never thought there would be a day she would gain such a thing.

Maybe, just maybe, it would be interesting.

(To be continued.)
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Chapter 402: Meeting at the Banquet

The 60th anniversary of the Suzuki conglomerate was bustling.
As a very important anniversary, this banquet mainly invited past and present allies of the group, almost all of whom were celebrities, socialites, and figures from the world of wealth and power.

Of course, there were also a small number of close friends of the family.

For example, the four little stars at the moment were a bit nervous.

"Wow, Yoko, the Suzuki conglomerate's anniversary is amazing. I saw so many company presidents."

The girl in a green dress with short brown hair looked around curiously.

"Kaoru, it's very rude to act like that. And this is the 60th anniversary of the Suzuki conglomerate. Do you think an event like this is something ordinary people can just walk into?"

The one speaking wore a dark blue dress, her slightly long black hair falling over her shoulders. Her calm face could not hide the nervousness betrayed by her fidgeting fingers.

The scolded girl stuck out her tongue playfully.

The third girl, wearing a white dress with long brown hair, had a mature face but could not hide her nervousness.

She looked at Yoko, who had received the invitation and brought them along.

"Yoko, is it really okay for us to be at a party like this?"

In truth, the three of them who had been invited were a little uneasy.

They were fully aware of their own status.

Celebrities might appear glamorous in the eyes of ordinary people, but there is still an unbridgeable gap between them and true power.

The banquet they were attending now was undoubtedly far beyond their level. For small stars like them, attending such a formal event was completely out of place.

"Don't worry. The one who invited me told me not to worry about that."

Yoko whispered to reassure her worried friends.

She knew they were not qualified to attend such a banquet, but since her brother had told her she could come, she naturally had the qualifications.

"Wow, the person who invited you must be really amazing."

Hearing this, Kaoru Kusano could not help but be surprised.

"To have the right to be invited to a banquet hosted by the Suzuki conglomerate… No, that person is basically giving you the right to attend."

Such a person must either be very close to the Suzuki family or hold a very special status.

"It's not that impressive."

A warm voice suddenly came from behind, and Kaoru noticed Yoko's eyes light up instantly.

"Ren."

Kaoru turned her head and saw a boy wearing glasses standing there. Most of his face was obscured by the frames, but as an actress she could tell that the face behind them had to be handsome.

His dark suit looked new, not something he often wore, possibly the first time. He did not look very old, not even twenty.

Seeing Yoko's bright smile, the expressions of Kaoru, Yuki Takeno, and Terumi Hoshino became a little complicated.

They really did not expect Yoko to like a younger boy.

Ren glanced at the three other girls who had been brought along by Yoko.

"So they all know about it? And they are also going to be part of your studio?"

"Yes."

Yoko nodded with a smile and stepped closer to her friends.

"I've already discussed the studio idea with them, and they all agreed. We've even talked about the salary details. The next step is to officially set it up."

"But starting a studio means officially cutting ties with the past. That's what we need to think about now."

Ren nodded slightly.

He knew that once matters with the agency were handled, the studio would be formally established. But to resolve those agency issues, sufficient status and backing were necessary, otherwise, some problems would be difficult to deal with.

"Long time no see, Mr. Amamiya."

A familiar voice came from the side. Ren turned his head and saw the girl who had changed her fate in order to save her grandfather. Now she appeared much more mature.

"Long time no see, Miss Hatamoto."

Natsue also attended the event today, wearing a beautiful white gown and crystal earrings. The timid and fragile girl from before had completely transformed into someone mature and confident. In just over a month, the change was remarkable.

"Compared to when we first met, Miss Hatamoto has changed a lot."

"This is also thanks to Mr. Amamiya's help."

She was not just being polite. All the changes she had today were due to the gift Ren had given her.

Because of that gift, she had been able to protect her grandfather, allowing him to live a semi-retired life.

Now she was making great progress within the group, but there were still many opposing voices in the conglomerate.

"So, have you selected the three people?"

Ren naturally did not forget his promise.

The difficulties she faced within the group were something he needed to help resolve. If she could unify the voices in the Hatamoto conglomerate, it would bring benefits to him as well.

"I've already chosen them."

Natsue had taken this matter very seriously, conducting thorough investigations on the three she had selected. She confirmed that their identities were clean and that there was no interference from the old guard of the conglomerate.

"All three are recent college graduates who have just started working. They come from poor family backgrounds and are people who need to rely on their own strength."

Clearly, she understood that only with such a background could they be loyal.

Therefore, this was the first standard she used when making her choice.

"Since you've made your choice, contact me after the party."

"I will."

It was definitely inappropriate to discuss this topic further at such an event, and she understood that, so she let the subject drop.

At that moment, Natsue turned her attention to the others.

"Mr. Amamiya, are these four your friends?"

"Well, actually…"

Yoko nudged him gently with her elbow.

"…Alright, we're friends."

(To be continued.)
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Chapter 403: Suzuki Family Can Also Help

At least until Yoko obtains the diary, this friendship must be maintained.

We are friends.

Natsue glanced subtly at Ren and Yoko, who was standing behind him.

She had not recognized her at first, but now she realized that she was a popular idol. She did not expect that she was connected to Ren.

But popular idols are very suitable for spreading faith.

Thinking of this, Natsue suppressed her thoughts.

"She is Yoko Okino, my neighbor and now a popular idol.

And this is Natsue Hatamoto, whom I met on my way back from a trip. She is now the president of the Hatamoto conglomerate."

Ren briefly introduced them, then continued in a voice only the two of them could hear:

"Yoko is now a Sequence 9 Singer, and Miss Hatamoto is now a Sequence 9 Warrior."

The two looked at each other, confirmed each other's identities, and nodded in a friendly manner. From now on, this was a formal acquaintance.

"Ren!"

Just as they had started to get acquainted, a lively voice came from behind.

Even without turning around, Ren knew who it was. Among the people he knew, only one could speak with such liveliness.

Soon, a lively presence enveloped him.

The white dress suited her identity as a young lady, as well as her figure. The design looked fancy, but it was not gaudy, only charming.

Ren gestured slightly toward the person standing beside her and introduced,

"Fujiwara Chika, my classmate."

Then, only the three of them could hear the next words.

"She is also a Sequence 9 Spectator."

"Long time no see, Miss Fujiwara."

This was not the first time Chika and Natsue had met. They had met once on the return cruise.

After that, Yoko and Chika exchanged greetings.

"Nice to meet you, Miss Okino."

"Hello, Miss Fujiwara."

After a few polite words, Chika began to relax.

"So, Miss Okino, have you already decided to strike out on your own?"

Yoko was not surprised that Chika knew about this.

"Yes. Something unpleasant happened around me. I decided it would be better to leave on my own than continue struggling in the agency."

"Of course, I would never have the courage to do it alone. If I had left by myself, I would have been banned from the industry in two days. It was Ren who gave me this advice and opportunity."

Chika nodded with understanding. The entertainment industry is indeed complicated. Most people in that circle rely on those with money. If they refuse to obey, they are banned or hidden. So if you want to leave, you must have someone behind you.

"Yeah, I understand. I really understand! There are shady things in every circle. Recently, I've started to understand that more and more."

The more she used the Spectator mode to observe others, the clearer their inner thoughts became.

As expected, most of them were dirty.

However, Chika had been mentally prepared, so she could accept it.

Her parents had often told her that human hearts were dangerous, so she paid attention to this in her daily life.

"But it's actually quite easy to find someone to rely on. Just ask Kaguya to help."

It is hard to find another person like Chika, but finding a backer is much easier.

"If Miss Okino just wants to leave, I think she can stand firm with a little help."

If she only wanted to leave the agency without being targeted, Chika believed that as long as the Shinomiya family said a word, the entire industry would not dare to go against Yoko.

"That was my suggestion."

Ren interjected.

"Sonoko isn't suitable as a helper, but if Kaguya stands up, she can help. And the help doesn't have to be excessive. Just enough to make the agency understand a few things."

Really.

The three who were listening nodded.

The voice of capital carries more weight than that of a small star, but to other companies with similar capital, it can also be too sharp.

Especially for those with greater backing, a single word can be more effective than you think.

For young stars leaving their agencies, as long as they have a backer, everything becomes easier.

"Mr. Amamiya, there is no need to trouble Kaguya with such a thing."

At this moment, Ayako approached with a gentle smile.

"In fact, the Suzuki family also has some plans for the entertainment industry. Chikako is working on some scripts. I think there will be more cooperation with celebrities when the time comes."

Because of the need to spread faith, Ayako was already planning to make arrangements in the entertainment industry.

After all, Chikako's scripts are aimed at spreading faith. Once adapted into TV shows or movies, they will naturally need a large number of actors and stars.

So, the Suzuki family could also help.

In fact, it might even be more appropriate for them to help.

After thinking for a moment, Ren nodded slightly.

"If Miss Ayako is willing to help, that would be best. Then there's no need to trouble Kaguya."

"Of course, no problem."

Ayako nodded slightly. This kind of help was very simple, a matter of convenience.

Then she took out her business card and handed it to Yoko.

"Miss Okino, this is my card. It has my personal contact information. Contact me when you are ready, and I will talk to your agency."

Yoko took the business card and bowed slightly.

"Thank you very much. I'll trouble you then, Miss Suzuki."

She finally breathed a sigh of relief. This was the first step toward starting her own career.

The next step was to finish her current work, then separate from the agency and establish her studio.

She could not trouble others with everything that came afterward. Otherwise, she would not be starting her own studio, but merely continuing to rely on others.

(To be continued.)
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Chapter 404: Entering "Lord of the Mysteries"

"Mr. Amamiya, I may need your help with the story Chikako wants to prepare."

Ayako took this opportunity to bring up her own idea.

"Is this Miss Ikeda's story? Has she started writing so soon?"

Reading ability truly becomes powerful. Books once read are engraved into the mind. The enhanced memory is even stronger than expected.

Ren also had direct experience with this.

"Yes. Since that day, Chikako has been reading all kinds of books to build up material. She already had writing experience over the past two years, and now she will only be faster than before."

Ren agreed with this point.

The script Chikako had polished over two years was already very good. Now, with an enhanced reading speed, it was no wonder that she began writing again so soon.

"You need my help with the story?"

"Yes. Since this story is intended to spread faith, I thought we could add some elements with stronger religious meaning."

"Religious elements…"

Ren thought for a moment, and the four words "Lord of Mysteries" came to mind, bringing a slight smile to his lips.

"Indeed, it is necessary to add some religious elements. I will speak with Miss Ikeda about the story sometime soon."

What could be more effective for spreading faith than turning the story of the Lord of Mysteries into a television series or a novel?

Besides, wouldn't it be fascinating to release the story of the Lord of Mysteries here?

Ayako nodded slightly. This was the best outcome.

Chika, who had been watching from the side, noticed Ren's faint smile and quietly approached.

"Did you just think of something interesting?"

"Hmm. That expression only appears when a story is involved. So, is the story interesting?"

Ren did not deny it and nodded slightly.

"If I could bring the story happening over there into this world, it might become something special. But to truly bring it over here and make it a TV series or film, the investment would be quite high."

"What's happening?"

After a brief pause, Chika immediately understood, and her smile grew even brighter.

"If that's the case, then it is really interesting."

She understood what he meant. Perhaps this was about another world that Ren had accidentally entered.

If the story from there was reproduced exactly in this world, she was very curious to see how it would unfold.

Moreover, by directly moving events from that other world into this one, and giving each episode an even more engaging plot, it would naturally become popular.

Afterward, it would be easy to foster belief.

For example, what if several of the lead actors came to believe in the characters because of their roles in the film or show?

After all, the Fool of this world and the Fool from that other world are two different beings. If subtle hints are added toward the main Fool in the story, the resulting faith would naturally flow to Ren.

In that case, not only would interest in the other world's story increase, but it would also help Ren spread his faith.

"I am starting to get interested. Miss Ayako, when can we begin Miss Ikeda's story?"

"Huh?"

Ayako was slightly stunned. Seeing Chika's very excited reaction, she explained,

"Chikako is already ready to start writing. If there is a rough outline, I believe she can make rapid progress with her current state."

Although she did not know much about writing, she knew that creating a rich story is both difficult and time-consuming. But if there is a framework, then filling in the details becomes much easier.

"I think that as long as Mr. Amamiya explains the general storyline to Chikako, the story will take shape soon…"

"Once the story is finalized, the Suzuki conglomerate will quickly begin organizing supporting film and television projects. Depending on the length, it can be adapted into a TV series, films, or a combination of both."

"Then it should be a combination of TV series and films. That story is very long. If we try to cover every chapter, it will take a very long series."

Ren considered the length of the original story. Since every arc was captivating, it would be impossible to cover everything in just one TV season.

Therefore, a combination of TV and films was the best option.

The cost of production would be very high, but funding was not a problem for the Suzuki conglomerate. Moreover, the story of the Lord of Mysteries would likely bring them significant returns.

"I will have a meeting with Miss Ikeda after the banquet ends."

"First, I will let her know the overall outline and the world-building settings. That way she can write the story better."

Considering the long production cycle, Ren decided to meet with her as soon as possible to finalize the basic structure.

He would give her the general direction and settings. The details would be up to her.

As for the story, Ren had no intention of asking her to replicate it perfectly. After all, even he was not detailed about many parts. All he could provide was the overall direction and basic character setups.

"Yeah!"

Chika's eyes sparkled.

As long as the framework is decided, she believed the story would progress quickly. In other words, it would not be long before the story of another world appeared before them.

Even for a rational Spectator, some excitement was unavoidable.

Especially when you know another world truly exists.

(To be continued.)
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Chapter 405: The Rich Young Lady Is Still Very Conservative

Attention gradually gathered.

Ren, who was very sensitive to gazes, immediately noticed it when Ayako and Fujiwara came over, and all the attention around shifted toward them.

No, to be precise, all of it was focused on him.

Ayako's attitude was too humble for someone of his ordinary status.

Even toward her own friends, Ayako would not usually place herself so low… As expected, being together with her and others drew more attention.

He was not someone who liked being in the spotlight. He especially disliked situations like this.

However, Ren also understood that the attention was because of Ayako and Fujiwara.

Even if he avoided it now, it was inevitable that he would be targeted when Kaguya and the others arrived later.

After all, in a group of young ladies, his presence stood out too much.

Before he could catch a breath, Sonoko and Ran came over hand in hand.

A step behind them were Kaguya and Hayasaka, followed by Nagi, Isumi, Sakuya, and Maria.

Good grief, there had already been enough attention just now, and now the focus of the entire venue was about to be pulled in this direction.

Still, Ren knew this was inevitable. There were simply too many young ladies in this circle, and he was the one who looked out of place.

The ink stain on white paper is naturally the easiest to spot.

Ren glanced at the girls in front of him. Their dresses were relatively conservative.

Not only Sonoko and Kaguya, but even Ayako's style today was very restrained, focusing on elegance rather than display.

Looking around, he noticed that many of the women at the party were dressed similarly.

It seemed just as Sonoko and Kaguya had said, the most exposed was a bit of the collarbone. Indeed, quite conservative.

In comparison, women seen on the streets revealed much more.

Not only the collarbone but also the waist, stomach, and thighs. As expected, most daughters from major conglomerates were conservative.

"What are you looking at?"

Noticing that his eyes were wandering, Sonoko subconsciously glanced to the side.

"Yeah. I was just thinking that what you said was true. Most young ladies from big conglomerates are pretty conservative."

Sonoko finally realized what he was looking at and rolled her eyes.

"Daughters of conglomerates come from wealthy families. Why would they need to show off in front of others? Even at family-arranged blind dates, they have to maintain a dignified image. That is for both the family and for themselves."

A young lady has her own requirements for image. When out in public, she must remain elegant rather than flashy.

Those who are overly flamboyant may be naturally open-minded, but their reputation in the circle suffers.

They are basically labeled as unsuitable for marriage.

"In general, only a small number of heirs in the conglomerate circle are willing to stand out. After all, only those favored by their families can act differently."

So that was it.

Ren nodded, now understanding a little better.

Those favored by their families do not need to follow rules. Being different is how they attract attention.

"As for the others, some have no plans to inherit the family business, or are in conflict with their families."

Thinking carefully, that did make sense.

Those not at odds with their families, raised as heirs, are educated more strictly. Some may excel in other fields, but the image they present to others is never poor, and they will not give off the impression of being spoiled second-generation rich kids.

At this moment, Kaguya spoke up to add a few points.

"What Sonoko said is correct, but not complete. There are also many heirs whose parents have bad personalities or have failed in their education. These are the ones who act like nouveau riche, and they are arrogant and ignorant."

"It is not only in this country. The same situation happens everywhere. The children of doctors often become doctors, and the children of politicians become politicians."

"This is the inheritance of connections across generations. The most valuable thing in this world is not money but the relationships maintained over generations."

"Because of this generational inheritance, the more capable members of a family naturally inherit the networks of the previous generation. Even if some do not follow the same profession, those inherited networks help them navigate other fields more easily."

"But nouveau riche will always be nouveau riche."

Kaguya shook her head slightly.

"The reason they are called nouveau riche is not just because their wealth was built in one generation, but because they have not passed on proper values to their children."

"An education that overemphasizes profit builds very poor values in the second generation. Often, such children will value benefits above all else, and their behavior will show the traits of a spoiled second generation."

"Because profit leads them to believe that money can change everything."

"Of course, being part of the second generation, they understand the importance of family. So their decisions are often made with family interests in mind."

"After all, these second-generation heirs have a clear understanding of themselves. Their advantage lies in their family, so they are often the ones most protective of it."

Maintaining one's image and protecting the family's interests are things every family member unconsciously does.

"Most of the guests invited to this banquet are heirs, so everyone will maintain their image and will absolutely not ruin it at such an event."

"What's more, for these heirs, every banquet is actually a different kind of blind date. Many conglomerates do not have strict arranged marriages. Sometimes, as long as the two families complement each other, both sides will agree."

(To be continued.)
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Chapter 406: The Thief Who Fell into a Dead End

The arrival of Sonoko and Kaguya, along with their words, thoroughly explained the inner workings of conglomerate families.

Although these statements were somewhat biased, Ren felt that the situation within most conglomerates was probably just as the two described.

"The situation within conglomerates is really complicated."

Ren accepted this knowledge humbly, while also realizing that the underlying rules within conglomerates were very intricate.

"It is not actually that complicated. It is more of a set of rules designed to protect family interests. In the past, things were much simpler and more brutal. But as times progressed, some conglomerates began to emphasize ability, and even girls have a chance to step forward now."

"Typical examples would be Miss Ayako, Sonoko, Saginomiya, and Sanzenin."

"But in comparison, their families are more open-minded, unlike the Shinomiya family, which insists on so-called traditions."

These words also revealed some of Kaguya's past helplessness and sadness.

As a member of the Shinomiya family, she had always known she had the responsibility to devote herself to the family, without the right to choose her own future. She had already accepted this fate.

Who would have thought that the future she had resigned herself to would change so drastically.

After saying that, Kaguya looked back, her gaze landing directly on Yoko.

"Ren, so the matter you asked me for help with earlier has something to do with Miss Okino?"

"Yes. I was originally going to ask for your help, but Ayako and Miss Ikeda are planning to write an interesting story that will be adapted into a TV series and movie. I think Ayako can handle it more easily."

"Writing stories..."

Kaguya did not react immediately.

"Kaguya, it is the story from over there," Fujiwara reminded her.

"There…!?"

Kaguya was stunned for a moment, and when she saw Chika glance at Ren, she immediately understood.

Is it that world's story!?

This definitely piqued her interest.

"I see. In that case, Miss Ayako, the Shinomiya conglomerate also has extensive overseas cinema resources. When the film is released, perhaps we can work together."

"Of course."

Ayako was naturally happy about such cooperation.

The Suzuki conglomerate had its own cinema chain within the country, but lacked resources overseas.

If Kaguya was willing to help, this would be the best outcome.

"Miss Okino, I am looking forward to your studio. However, I suggest you consult with legal advisors before officially establishing it. Clearly dividing most of the interests will prevent any trouble."

"Thank you very much."

Yoko smiled and expressed her gratitude.

"The division of interests has already been mostly handled. Even though we are friends, we want everything to be clearly divided. We do not want to be ruined later because of conflicts of interest."

"That is good."

Kaguya nodded.

If interests are divided before the studio is established, there is a very low chance of future problems. She did not believe that Yoko's three friends could not see the obvious fact that staying with her would bring greater benefits. If they left her studio, they might as well say goodbye to the entertainment industry entirely.

Naturally, Yoko's three friends also saw this truth clearly.

Yoko, the support behind you is just too strong!

The Suzuki conglomerate is already powerful, and now there is the Shinomiya conglomerate behind you as well.

Kaoru Kusano could already imagine how respectful the agency would be when arranging to terminate their contracts.

For them, the agency had been a huge mountain overhead, but in front of the Suzuki and Shinomiya conglomerates, it was nothing.

It seems that following Yoko in the future is the only correct choice.

Now, it was already certain.

Following Yoko into a new studio had originally been a major risk, but now it seemed there was no risk at all, only benefits.

Oh my, if those people Yoko invited before knew about this, would they be crying?

Kaoru Kusano could not help but think with a bit of dark humor.

Of course, such things were not to be discussed.

The fact that they had a brighter future now was entirely because of the choices they had made.

Initially, their plan to follow Yoko had been a way to break free from the agency and join a studio she founded, starting over from scratch.

But now, it seemed they were not starting from scratch but from a very high position.

They had also overheard the conversation just now. It was clear that the Suzuki conglomerate was planning to enter the entertainment industry and might even involve them in the script soon to be written.

This realization made their hearts race.

At the same time, a sense of urgency began to grow in their hearts.

The starting point for this restart might be high, but such a high position also brought equally high demands on their professional skills. That was a big challenge.

While the three rising stars were filled with both excitement and anxiety, in a corner of the hall, a middle-aged man in a hat was lightly biting his finger.

This was bad.

Kuroba Kaito, now backed into a corner, felt that things had become extremely tricky.

Before this, he had done plenty of research on Sonoko, and through her, he had investigated Ran as well.

His original plan had been to disguise himself as Shiro Suzuki, keep that troublesome man away, and then get close to Tomoko, the only person likely to be wearing the Dark Star. Any theft could only be attempted after getting close.

But first, Shiro's disguise was exposed, and the man himself was not swayed by the phone call.

Of course, that was not the worst of it.

The worst thing was the fake Dark Star on his chest.

With his skill in appraisal, he could tell that this black pearl was a fake. The real one could not possibly be this translucent after so many years. The more translucent the black pearl, the more likely it was fake.

Naturally, this fake was the same piece given to every guest boarding the cruise ship.

He had already understood the Suzukis' plan.

Use fakes to confuse, and hand the real one to someone to protect.

It was a good strategy, but would they really entrust the authentic one to someone else?

Kuroba Kaito still doubted it.

But through his observations, the black pearl worn on Mrs. Suzuki's chest was probably not the Dark Star.

He could confirm that it was a black pearl, but its translucence did not match that of a Dark Star.

Then he noticed several other black pearls on people's chests that also seemed less bright. The most confusing part was that those pearls seemed real.

After confirming this, Kuroba Kaito felt on the verge of collapse.

He could not help but smile bitterly.

Mrs. Suzuki, it is indeed a bold move to hand out all your heirlooms to others for safekeeping.

(To be continued.)