Back in the Tantei Association main HQ, Junko could be heard saying: "You remembered what I said how lucky Ranran and Shinichi's class was to go on a camping trip rather than to be stuck in class all they like the rest of us? I will take back what I said."

Emiko, who was sitting next to her, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, this is turning out to be a nightmare. First the serial killer, and now the possibility of dengue."

Michio sighed. "I hope they find a way to treat Sonoko's illness and prevent it from spreading to the others."

"It's not directly contagious from person to person," Michio explained. "But it is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. So if there are infected mosquitoes in the area, other people could potentially contract the virus."

Junko nodded. "Ah, I see. Well, either way, this is really bad. I hope they have some way to keep the mosquitoes away."

"They probably have some insect repellent with them," Michio said. "But with the typhoon, it might not be very effective."

The three of them lapsed into a worried silence, hoping for the best for Ran and her friends.

"It's terrible, isn't it?" Junko brought up, "First, Shinichi fell sick in the penthouse, then Sonoko fell sick of possible dengue at the campsite, plus two deaths in the guise of accidents. I swear that the island must be cursed or something.

"Curse doesn't exist, Fuyuko," Emiko sighs, "But luck does."

"I agree," Michio chimed in. "It's just a series of unfortunate events happening in a short period of time."

"I hope they find a way to end this nightmare soon," Junko said, her expression filled with concern.

Emiko nodded. "Me too. The only way we could do is the sooner we get the bottom of this, the quicker this nightmare shall end."

"Emiko, are you still not done with reconstructing Mr Eiji's face that was filled with scars?" Michio asked.

"No," Emiko shooked her head and admits, "As I said earlier, it's a difficult task, especially with the photos Ranran sent to me. But I'm doing my best to reconstruct his face as accurately as possible."

"I'm sure you'll get it done," Junko said, trying to reassure Emiko.

Emiko gave a small smile. "Thanks, Junko. I appreciate the support."

Michio looked at his watch and stood up. "Well, I better get back to work. We have a lot to do."

The others nodded in agreement and they went back to their respective tasks, hoping for some good news soon.

................................................

"Hello, Michio and Junko, it's been a while since we last met."

Of all the people who greeted the two eldest children of Tantei Association, the last person Junko wanted to meet was none other than Ohta Bunko, the current secretary of the Muniko family.

Junko's expression tightened, but she tried to maintain a polite demeanour. "Hello, Miss Ohta. It's nice to see you."

Michio, who was standing beside her, nodded in greeting. "It's good to see you too, Ohta-san. How is your fiance, Mr Namba doing in prison?"

During their second major case, 'The Illegitimate Extra', Namba Katsumi, a supposed conman who scammed money out of several investors was caught in a major conspiracy between the two families. Thanks to his evil mother's plot, he was almost duped into murdering Tantei Association's client, a.k.a Namba's half-eldest brother Muniko Tomio, for the several deaths of his adopted family who took Namba in.

Since evidence had disclosed that he was innocent and had no idea about his mother's manipulation, his sentencing in prison was reduced. He is also the fiance of Ohta Bunko, whom they knew each other since middle school.

"He's doing fine, thank you for asking," Ohta replied with a small smile. "So far the prison he was sent to have a low chance of prison fight, and he had been on good behaviour. If all goes well, he will be released early and would immediately start working for his half-brother to pay up the debts he owed."

"I see," Michio nodded. "That's good to hear."

Junko remained quiet, still feeling uneasy around Ohta.

She couldn't help but remember what Ohta said about her during their shooting lessons.

When the founder of Tantei Association announced that she had arranged for Miss Ohta to take them to shooting lessons, Junko was very nervous. In a way, she is a 10-year-old girl who had never held a gun in her entire life, unlike 6-year-old Ranran.

The first time she held the gun, it ended up misfiring and ended up puncturing someone's luxury car.

It earned laughter from the other members, at some point, even Miss Ohta massaged her face and sighed to say, "I have seen other 10-year-old girls who had held guns a lot better than you."

Junko knew that she wasn't saying this out of malice, but it was by far an embarrassing memory.

Junko tried to push the memory aside and focus on the present. "It's good, he didn't deserve all the hell his mom had put him through," she said, forcing a smile.

"So, what brings you here, Miss Ohta?" Michio asked, trying to move the conversation forward.

"I was actually sent by my father to deliver some documents to one of Mr Muniko's clients," Ohta replied, holding up a folder. "I thought I might as well stop by and say hello."

"I see," Michio said.

Ohta nodded. "Thank you. I should be going now. It was nice seeing you both again."

Junko and Michio both bid her farewell and watched as she walked away. "I still can't believe she's still engaged to that conman," Junko muttered under her breath.

Michio nodded in agreement. "Let's not forget that he was forced to con money to pay up his adopted family's debts and his mom's surgery, thanks to his evil biological mother manipulating behind the scenes."

Junko sighed. "I know, I know. It's just hard to wrap my head around it."

As the maid guides them down the familiar hallways of the mansion, they see the usual noble-like photos across the hallways of the mansion, each portrait photo had names attached below, the surname always beginning with the word 'Muniko'.

Junko took a moment to look at some of the portraits as they walked down the hallways. She recognized some of the names, having read about them in the Tantei Association's archives. According to the maid the last time they were here, the Muniko's film production company only allowed males to be CEO. Due to superstitious beliefs, women of the Muniko families, and daughters as well aren't allowed to become the successor as it may bring calamity.

But there was a tiny difference this time.

For starters, there seems to be a recently added portrait. This time a familiar little girl was in the portrait. It was the girl in the Muniko family photo, his daughter.

"So Mr Muniko finally decided to change the rule that only males can be CEO of the film production company." " Junko said, pointing to the portrait of a little girl with a prideful expression.

"Oh no, you got it wrong, while it is true that it was the case," The maid turned to them and reply. "The reason Ojousama's photo ended up there is that Mr Muniko's wife is the one who demanded it."

Junko and Michio looked at each other in surprise. "Demanded it?" Junko repeated.

The maid nodded. "Yes, you see....after your leader, Kudo Ranran, resolved Mr Muniko-san's case...since she is the same age as his daughter...Mr Muniko lectured his daughter about not being as wise-minded as Ranran, which made her throw a tantrum."

"Why?" Michio can't help asking.

"Well...his daughter is...what can you say? She doesn't like to study, nor hardworking. She likes to spend her time in front of the tv the whole day watching romantic dramas."

Junko and Michio couldn't help but exchange a knowing look. In the maid's words, she summarizes Mr Muniko's daughter as a spoilt brat.

"I see," Junko said with a small smile. "Well, it's nice to know that Ranran's impact has reached even the Muniko family."

"I mean for Mr Muniko is a yes, but I can't say the same for his wife and daughter." The maid confirmed.

Junko and Michio couldn't help but blink in unison.

"When his wife heard about it, she scolded the husband and demanded to stop their daughter from sobbing by putting up the portrait of the daughter, and that he shouldn't compare their daughter to Ranran."

Junko and Michio couldn't help but feel sorry for Mr Muniko. It must be tough dealing with a difficult wife and a spoilt daughter.

"But don't you think this is spoiling her?" Junko said sympathetically.

The maid nodded in agreement. "But Mr Muniko is a kind man and he loves his family dearly. He tries his best to make them happy."

"I can't believe he is raising a future spoilt brat in the future," Junko whispered to Michio.

"Agree."

Junko and Michio nodded in understanding. It was clear that Mr Muniko was a family man who cared deeply for his loved ones, even if it meant indulging their whims and desires.

As they continued down the hallway, they noticed that the photos of the Muniko family became more recent and vibrant. It was evident that Mr Muniko had recently updated them, perhaps to reflect the changes in his family.

As they reached the end of the hallway, the maid stopped in front of a large wooden door. "Here we are," she said, turning to face them. "This is Mr Muniko's study. He's been expecting you."

Junko and Michio nodded, feeling a mixture of anticipation and nervousness. They knew that this meeting could determine the fate of their investigation and their mission.

The maid knocked gently on the door, and a voice from inside called out, "Enter."

Junko and Michio exchanged one last look before pushing open the door and stepping into the study.

They entered the room and found themselves in a spacious office, complete with a large desk and shelves of books. A middle-aged man with his signature nose was sitting behind the desk, looking up as they entered.

"Ah, welcome back," Mr Muniko said, rising to his feet and coming around the desk. "I'm glad to see you both again. How have you all been?"

Junko and Michio returned the greeting and replied that they have been doing well.

"It's good to hear that," Mr Muniko said with a smile. "Now, let's get down to business. I assume you're here to discuss the matter we spoke about on the phone."

Junko nodded. "Yes, we are. We have a few questions to ask you...to look into a family we have in mind."

Mr Muniko nodded in response. "Of course. Please have a seat, and we can discuss the details."

Junko and Michio took the chairs in front of the desk, and Mr Muniko resumed his seat behind it.

"So, which family is it that you want me to look into?" Mr Muniko asked, steepling his fingers in front of him.

Junko took a deep breath before replying. "It's the Yasuo family."

Mr Muniko's expression immediately became serious. "I see. That's a delicate matter, as you know. What do you need me to do exactly?"

"We need you to ask if you know anything about the Yasuo family," Junko explained. "We believe that they may have information that could help us solve it."

"May I know why?" The man asked.

And so, Michio and Junko poured out the situation regarding Ranran and the others stuck on an island due to the typhoon, with a potential serial killer seemingly targeting everyone around Yasuo Miki, as well as the expedition files going missing.

Mr Muniko listened intently as they spoke, nodding occasionally to show that he was following along.

"I see," he said after they finished. "That is indeed a troubling situation. And you believe that someone in the Yasuo family might be responsible for these incidents? That the man of the Yasuo family could've committed adultery and have an illegitimate son?"

"We're not sure," Junko admitted. "But we believe that it's worth investigating. And we would like your help in doing so."

Mr Muniko leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. After a moment, he spoke again. "Well, I will do what I can to assist you, since I am invited to attend a funeral of the Yasuo family."

"Eh!? Funeral?" Michio's curiosity got the better of him, "Who is it who died?"

"Yasuo Tsuyoshi, the patriarch of the family. He died 2 weeks ago."

"Say what now!?" Junko and Michio exchanged a surprised look.

"What did he die of?" Michio inquire.

"It was a heart attack, I believe," Mr Muniko replied. "It was sudden and unexpected. He was hiking at the mountain till it abruptly happened. Which is odd, he is healthy as a horse despite his old age according to their family doctor. I don't see why would he end up dying so soon."

Junko and Michio exchanged a quick look, the news taking them by surprise.

"We had no idea," Junko said. "Do you think this could be connected to what's been happening?"

"I wouldn't know any of that," Mr Muniko replied. "But all I do know is that there have been tensions within the family."

"Over what?" Junko is puzzled.

"Who is gonna take over the family business," Mr Muniko explained. "Are you guys aware of the name Yasuo Tatsuo?"

"The son who died when he was around nine, right?" Which made Junko wonder, "The news never specifically mention how he died."

"Yes, that's the one," Mr Muniko confirmed. "The circumstances of his death were always kept quiet, but there were rumours that it was not an accident."

Junko and Michio exchanged another look, feeling that the plot was thickening. "Mr Muniko, do you know how Tatsuo died?"

Mr Muniko hesitated for a moment before answering. "I don't know the details, but I have heard rumours that he was murdered. It was never officially confirmed, though. Something about pushing him into a pond, he didn't know how to swim and ended up dying."

Junko and Michio were both taken aback by this revelation. "Seriously?" Junko repeated in shock.

"Yes, that's what I've heard," Mr Muniko said. "But as I said, it was never officially confirmed. The family are private people."

"If they were, how is it that you ended up becoming friends with them?" Michio said.

"We are not really friends, more like business associates. Which is how I met Mr Yasuo Tsuyoshi at a business conference several years ago," Mr Muniko replied. "We don't share much about our personal lives with each other, aside from the fact that he was always a private person and never spoke much about his family."

"What about his wife, Yasuo Shizuku? He got to at least bring up anything about his wife, right?" Junko tried to stir something he could recall.

Mr Muniko shook his head. "No, he never really talked about his wife either. From what I gathered, their relationship was a bit strained."

Junko and Michio exchanged another look. "Do you know anything about their adopted son? That they said his name is Yasuo Miki?" Michio asked.

"I may not know whether that is truly his name, but I did hear rumours about his hobbies. He is the type who enjoys doing outdoor activities and opening a campsite with a wife I have no idea who her name is," Mr Muniko replied. "As for his wife, however...she is often the talk from everyone's lips."

"Why is that?" Junko asked.

"Well, she's a bit of a scandalous figure," Mr Muniko replied, lowering his voice. "I've heard rumours that since she was born into a poor family from the slum city with an unsuccessful shoe shop her single mother runs, she intentionally approach the adopted son, knowing he was secretly rich and took advantage of him while he was drunk, had a one night stand, then married into the family. This obviously caused a rift between the adopted son and his family. It's said that she married him for money, and constantly belittled him while comparing the adopted son with her late fiance."

Junko and Michio were both stunned by what they had just heard. "She sounds like an opportunist," Junko said.

"Yes, it is," Mr Muniko agreed, suddenly remembering something, "One of my friends attended the wedding of their adopted son 12 years ago with the wife...he learn that she had the flowers in the wedding changed to daisies, the flowers that she and her late fiance love. The worst part was that the adopted son didn't stop her, which rubbed us the wrong way, if I may be honest. I know that she lost someone dear to her, but it made us feel as if she was using her own past like a V.I.P. pass to gain sympathy."

Junko and Michio exchanged another look, feeling like they had just uncovered a piece of the puzzle.

"And I kid you not, when my friend was at the wedding, there were orders that the guests are strictly not allowed to take photos. They didn't even hire a photographer, which was very unusual."

"That is strange," Michio commented.

"I mean to be fair, wasn't this marriage basically shotgun? Who would hire photographers to take their pictures." Junko suggests.

"That's a fair point," Mr Muniko conceded. "But still, the whole situation with the adopted son and his wife is a bit suspicious. That's right," The man remembered something, "Before Mr Tatsuo passed away while hiking, this was the first time he rambled about his family regarding his adopted son wanting to open an activity camping centre in the middle of nowhere away from the family, and it was all his wife's idea. Oh yeah, his wife even openly said to him that their daughter-in-law is a snake."

Junko and Michio exchanged another look.

"Look, I will attend the funeral tomorrow, then let you know if I found anything. However, I must warn you that looking into a family's affairs can be a delicate matter. There may be things that they would prefer to keep private, and we must respect their privacy as much as possible."

"We understand," Michio said. "But we believe that the safety of our colleagues is paramount. If there is someone in the Yasuo family who is a threat to them, we need to find out who it is and stop them."

Mr Muniko nodded. "I understand your concerns. I will do what I can to investigate discreetly and without causing any unnecessary alarm. But I must ask that you also exercise caution. We don't want to jump to conclusions or accuse someone without concrete evidence."

"We will," Junko assured him. "Thank you for your help, Mr Muniko. We appreciate it."

"Of course," Mr Muniko said with a nod. "I will begin looking into the Yasuo family right away. If I find anything, I will let you know."

Junko and Michio stood up to leave. "Thank you again," Junko said as they made their way to the door.

"Take care, and please keep me informed of any developments," Mr Muniko said as they left the room.

.............................................

"You know, Michio, considering if we take into account what we have gathered, I am starting to believe that Mr Miki's wife, Jun, is a horrible despicable woman."

Junko said as she and Michio are heading to a fast-food restaurant for lunch.

Michio nodded in agreement, his brow furrowed with concern. "It certainly seems that way. The rumours about her past and the way she allegedly manipulated Yasuo Miki into marriage for her own gain... no wonder the entire university was hating on Miss Jun when she started dating Miki, only a week after Kichiro, her late fiance, had fallen off a cliff."

Junko sighed, frustration evident in her voice. "And let's not forget the mysterious circumstances surrounding Yasuo Tatsuo's death. I have no evidence, but I have a nagging feeling that he too was murdered."

As they entered the restaurant and found a table, Junko continued, "But what's most concerning is the sudden death of Yasuo Tsuyoshi, the patriarch. A seemingly healthy man suffered a heart attack while hiking, just after expressing his concerns about his daughter-in-law. It's too coincidental."

Michio furrowed his brow, deep in thought. "We should also consider the timing of Eiji and Iwao's death. It happened after Yasuo Miki's plans to open the camping centre. It's almost as if someone wanted to go after Miki and Jun."

Junko nodded, picking at her food absentmindedly. "Also the shoe company Jun's family-owned, Dozing Shoemaker....it wasn't a successful business till Jun married Miki. If Jun isn't an opportunist, then she wouldn't have begun dating Miki and married a month after Kichiro's death."

"But we need to take Miss Akane, Jun and Miki's former coursemate words into consideration," Michio reminded her, "Jun attempted to commit suicide multiple times when Kichiro died before she dated Miki. She is certain that Jun will never dump Kichiro for anyone if he was alive, let alone, cheat."

Junko sighed, feeling the weight of the complexity surrounding the Yasuo family's history and the individuals involved. "Perhaps she wasn't feeling guilty about surviving, more like committing murder on Kichiro to be with Miki."

"Anyway," Michio leaned in, his voice lowered. "We should be cautious, though. If there are powerful and influential individuals involved in these events, they may not take kindly to us digging deeper. Our own safety too should be a priority."

Junko sighed, understanding the gravity of the situation. "You're right, Michio. We can't afford to be reckless. Let's continue our investigation carefully, and if we find ourselves in a dangerous situation, we'll seek assistance and protection."

With renewed determination, they finished their meal and left the restaurant, ready to delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding the Yasuo family. They knew that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges and potential dangers, but they were committed to uncovering the truth and bringing justice to light.

Little did they know that their investigation would lead them down a twisted path of deceit, betrayal, and dark family secrets that would put their lives back on the island at risk.

...............................................

"So this is the horse therapy ranch, huh?"

Upon arrival, Emiko are greeted by the refreshing scent of nature and the soothing sounds of horses neighing in the distance. The ranch's sprawling grounds are meticulously maintained, with spacious pastures where the horses roam freely, embodying the essence of hope and resilience.

Getting here wasn't difficult, as Ranch of Hope, nestled in a picturesque countryside, was just a scenic 20-minute drive away from the bustling city of Tokyo. This idyllic sanctuary offers a serene and rejuvenating environment for both humans and horses alike.

As one embarks on the short taxi ride from Tokyo, the city's urban landscape gradually transforms into lush green fields, rolling hills, and meandering streams. The Ranch of Hope is perfectly situated amidst this captivating natural beauty, offering a much-needed escape from the fast-paced city life.

Thanks to Ran and Takuma having managed to get some info about the horse instructor, Rika, they learn the name of the ranch where Rika and Miki first met when they were children was right here.

The place itself prides itself on its commitment to equine therapy, a holistic approach to healing that harnesses the powerful connection between humans and horses. Here, trained professionals work hand in hoof to create a safe and supportive environment, where visitors can find solace, strength, and a renewed sense of hope.

The main facility boasts state-of-the-art stables, designed to provide the utmost comfort and care for the horses. Each horse is treated with compassion and respect, and their individual personalities and needs are understood and nurtured by the dedicated staff.

Visitors to the Ranch of Hope can participate in a variety of therapeutic activities, carefully crafted to promote emotional well-being and personal growth. Engage in equine-assisted therapy sessions, where the horses act as intuitive partners, reflecting emotions and guiding individuals towards self-discovery. Take part in mindfulness exercises amidst the tranquil surroundings, allowing nature's beauty to inspire reflection and renewal.

"Hi, are you miss Megumi Akari?" The little girl approaches the woman, who looks elderly in Emiko's opinion.

"Ah yes, you must be Emiko from Tantei Association, right?"

Emiko smiled warmly at the woman, who introduced herself as Megumi Akari. "Yes, that's correct. I'm Emiko, and I'm here on behalf of the Tantei Association. It's a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Akari."

Megumi returned the smile, her eyes sparkling with kindness. "Please, call me Megumi. Welcome to the Ranch of Hope. When I heard you all were contacted to look into Rika, I was taken aback, but I will share with you what I know."

Emiko nodded, her curiosity piqued. "Thank you, Megumi. I've heard so much about the therapeutic work that takes place here. It's truly remarkable. Can you tell me a bit more about how horses play a role in healing?"

Megumi's face lit up with enthusiasm as she began to explain. "Of course, Emiko. Horses have a remarkable ability to sense and respond to human emotions. Through equine therapy, we create a safe space where individuals can connect with these magnificent creatures. The horses act as mirrors, reflecting the emotions and behaviours of the participants. This reflection often leads to self-awareness, growth, and healing."

She continued, "The gentle nature of horses, their non-judgmental presence, and their innate ability to establish trust make them incredible partners in the therapeutic process. We've witnessed remarkable transformations in individuals who have engaged in equine-assisted therapy. It's a truly transformative experience."

Emiko listened intently, before proceeding with the interview, "Miss Megumi, I would like to know a bit about how you met Miss Rika."

Megumi smiled warmly at Emiko, her eyes filled with fondness as she reminisced. "Ah, Rika. She is truly a remarkable young woman. I first met her many years ago when she was just a child. At that time...Miss Rika had experienced a huge fallout with her mother because her mom abruptly moved her away from the countryside that she had loved growing up. Her father had passed away, so her mom arrived in the city to earn more income to look after Rika on her own. But city life was difficult for Rika back then, so her mom took her to the Ranch of Hope seeking solace and healing."

She paused for a moment, collecting her thoughts. "Rika was drawn to the horses here. It was as if they understood her pain and offered her comfort in their silent presence. I watched as she developed a deep bond with the horses, finding solace and a sense of purpose through her connection with them."

Emiko was intrigued. "It sounds like Rika found her calling here at the ranch. Then...do you know of a boy who was with her as a child? One named Yasuo Miki?"

Megumi's smile faded slightly, replaced by a look of concern. "I do not know of a Yasuo Miki, but I do know of a Fujii Miki."

Emiko's interest was piqued even further. "Fujii Miki? Are you saying that Rika's childhood friend had a different name?"

Megumi nodded. "Yes, that's correct. Rika's childhood friend, the boy she used to spend a lot of time with here at the ranch, went by the name Fujii Miki, through his mother's surname. They were inseparable back then. It's strange that he would go by a different name now."

Emiko scribbled down the information in her notebook. "Did you ever meet this Fujii Miki in person? Do you know anything about him? Or his mother?"

Megumi thought for a moment before answering, "Yes, actually. Miki himself...he isn't the kind who wears his heart out his sleeve. He had always been timid and shy, which is why it was surprising that someone like Rika took a fancy to him. As for his mother..." Megumi sighed a hint of sadness in her eyes. "Truthfully she had it rough in life."

Emiko's curiosity deepened as Megumi mentioned Miki's mother. She leaned forward, eager to learn more. "Could you tell me about Miki's mother? What was her story?"

Megumi's expression turned sombre as she began to recount the tale. "Miki's mother, her name was Yasuko. She was a single mother, struggling to make ends meet. Life had dealt her a tough hand, and she faced many hardships. Especially when she had Miki."

"What about his father? Was there any mention of him?"

"For Miki's father...." The woman recalled back, "I never once met him, but he sounds like the source of all of the problems Yasuko had to deal with."

"In what way?"

Megumi sighed, her voice filled with a mix of sadness and frustration. "From what I gathered, Miki's father...duped her feelings as a single man, but in reality, he was married to someone else, so she dumped him but end up getting pregnant with Miki."

"Was his dad aware of Miki's existence?"

"At that time...she told me he has no idea of Miki's existence, as she didn't want him to know. Yasuko never spoke much about him, but it seemed clear that she really went all out in hiding Miki as if someone was watching her every move."

Emiko's eyebrows furrowed as she absorbed the new information. The circumstances surrounding Miki's birth seemed to add another layer of complexity to his story. "So, Yasuko kept Miki a secret from his father. Did anyone else know about Miki's true parentage?"

Megumi shook her head. "As far as I know, Yasuko kept Miki's existence a secret from everyone. She didn't want him to face any judgment or be burdened by his father's actions. It was a difficult decision for her, but she believed it was for the best."

Emiko pondered the implications of Yasuko's actions. "What happened to Yasuko by the way? Do you still have her number so I can contact her?"

Megumi paused for a moment, her gaze fixed on a distant memory. "Unfortunately, Yasuko... she passed away unexpectedly when Miki was around nine years old."

"Eh?!"

"It was a tragic accident. She was in a lift in one of the department shops where she always buy groceries when the elevator malfunctioned, which dragged her all the way down and she died on a cruel vicious impact. Oh yeah, even Rika was devastated by the news. She had grown close to Miki and had formed a bond with Yasuko as well."

Emiko's eyes widened with shock as she listened to the details of Yasuko's tragic death. The circumstances surrounding it only deepened the sense of mystery and tragedy that surrounded Miki's past. "That's terrible... it must have been incredibly difficult for Miki to lose his mother at such a young age."

Megumi nodded, her expression filled with empathy. "Yes, it was a devastating loss for him. Originally, I had assumed that Miki was going to be left orphaned, without any immediate family. That was until....a very well-dressed woman, his adopted mother, came up to me in a luxurious-looking car, and said her son will no longer be coming to this ranch ever again."

Emiko's interest was piqued as Megumi mentioned the well-dressed woman. "A well-dressed woman? What is her name? Did she provide any information about herself or her connection to Miki?"

Megumi frowned, trying to recall the details. "I didn't catch her name, but she seemed quite cold and distant. She didn't provide much information about herself or her connection to Miki, except that he wouldn't be returning to the ranch. It felt as though she wanted to cut off any ties he had here."

Emiko's mind raced with possibilities. "Did you notice anything specific about her appearance or demeanour that could help identify her? Did she mention where Miki would be going or why she wanted to sever his connection to the ranch?"

Megumi thought for a moment, trying to recall any distinguishing features. "She had an air of authority about her, and her demeanour was quite formal. Had trimmed black hair around her petite shoulder. She was dressed elegantly and carried herself with confidence. As for where Miki would be going, she didn't provide any details, but she made it clear that he was no longer allowed to be associated with the ranch or anyone here."

Emiko scribbled down the details in her notebook, determined to uncover the woman's identity and her motives later on. "What about Rika, how did she react back then?"

"About Miki never coming back to the ranch?" Megumi sighed and her expression turned sorrowful. "Rika was devastated when she learned that Miki wouldn't be returning to the ranch. That is right!"The elderly woman recalled, snapping her finger, "I remembered when she got word, she hopped away from the horse and chase after the car, with Miki at the back with his hands on the window sobbing."

Emiko's eyes widened at the revelation. "Rika chased after the car? Did she manage to catch up to them? Did she have any idea who the woman was?"

Megumi shook her head sadly. "No, she couldn't catch up to them. The car drove away too quickly, and Rika was left behind, heartbroken. She didn't have any idea who the woman was or why she wanted to take Miki away. Rika cared deeply for Miki and had formed a strong bond with him, so losing him was devastating for her. After Miki was taken away, Rika begged me to tell me where he went, but even I myself ain't sure where he lived with his adopted family."

Emiko felt a surge of empathy for Rika, who had not only lost her own family but now faced the heartbreak of losing someone she cared about deeply. "Did Rika ever mention anything about Miki's past or his mother after that incident? Did she try to investigate or find any information?"

Megumi nodded, her voice filled with sadness. "After Miki was taken away, Rika was determined to find out more about his past and what had happened to him. She tried to investigate on her own, asking around and searching for any leads, but she didn't find much. It seemed like there were many secrets surrounding Miki and his family. They reunited years later in school, and around that time I think her mother stop taking her here. But then around university....how should I put this? She came here on her own, dejected that Miki ended up with a girl she didn't like, a girl named Jun who would later become his wife."

Emiko pressed, "How did Rika feel about Jun?"

Megumi sighed, her gaze filled with a mix of sadness and disappointment. "A snake."

"I am sorry!?" Emiko froze at her words.

Megumi's voice softened as she clarified her statement. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be harsh. It's just that this was the first word Rika address his wife is like a snake."

"That is...harsh. Were there any incidents for her to think likewise?"

Megumi nodded, her expression growing sombre. "Around a week after Jun's late fiance passed away, she ended up dating his best friend, Miki."

"Ah yes, I do remember that was mentioned by their classmate, Miss Akane." Emiko nods, "Something about the one-night stand or something, which is why they got married."

"You kids are sure an odd bunch to know things like that," Megumi grew worried at that, before she decides to continue on with the story, "Well, Rika one day invited me out to go for a drink. And uh...when she was drunk, she kept cursing how Jun was manipulative, that she intentionally slipped drugs into his drink so that he could sleep with her, and make her his wife."

Emiko listened intently, her mind processing the shocking information. "Eh!? And she knows this because.....?"

Megumi sighed, her voice filled with unease. "Miki is a good drinker, he knows how to handle his drinks well, especially around women. Rika is also his drinking buddy. So it was a huge shock that Rika found Miki looking disoriented when she met up with him at his dorm, with Jun."

Emiko's eyes widened in disbelief. The pieces of the puzzle were starting to come together, painting a disturbing picture of Jun's actions. "Is that why she had a huge dislike for Jun?"

Megumi nodded, her expression filled with concern. "Yes, that's what Rika strongly believes. She said she saw the signs, the way Miki was acting and how he seemed out of it when he was with Jun. Rika couldn't bear to see Miki being taken advantage of like that, especially after all they had been through." 

Emiko's mind raced with the implications of this revelation. If Rika's claims were true, it would explain the questionable circumstances surrounding Miki and Jun's relationship. "Did Rika confront Miki about her suspicions? Did he believe her?"

Megumi's face saddened even more. "Rika didn't have any proof, even if she did present anything, she knew he would not believe her since she is the childhood friend after all. He was deeply in love with Jun for years in the university, so he and couldn't fathom the idea that she would do something like that."

"Then...let's say...after 12 years of marriage, Miki and Jun had an unhappy marriage....would he be the type to cheat on his wife with Rika?"

Megumi sighed deeply, her eyes filled with sorrow. "I cannot say for certain, but from what I know of Miki, he wouldn't do that because of the situation regarding his mom being a mistress growing up. Despite any unhappiness in his marriage, I find it hard to believe that he would willingly cheat on his wife with Rika or anyone else. Miki has always been devoted to Jun, even when they were dating and after they got married."

Emiko thanked Megumi once again for her time and valuable insights before bidding her farewell. As she left the ranch, her mind buzzed with new information and possibilities. The intricate web of relationships, secrets, and emotions surrounding Miki, Jun, and Rika seemed more tangled than ever, but she was determined to unravel it and uncover the truth.