At the Izakaya, Rafael and Rina were enjoying their customary breakfast prepared by Sachiko in the early morning. The siblings expressed delight as they savored each bite, appreciating the heartfelt effort put into cooking.
"This is truly exceptional, Sachiko," complimented Rafael as he continued relishing the dishes served to him.
"Naturally, I made it specifically for both of you," responded Sachiko with a fond gaze towards Rafael.
"These two are so adorable," whispered Rina softly upon Akira's arrival and subsequent seating at their table.
"I have heard that your parents are currently in Tokyo, staying at the Penthouse," mentioned Akira. "Will you be visiting them?"
"Yes, we plan to," responded Rina. "It is customary for us to visit when they are here since my father will be handing over his responsibilities to Aunt Tiffany."
"My love, I want you to join us there," Rafael expressed. "I will introduce you to Senator Marino."
Sachiko blushed and could not meet Rafael's gaze, saying with nerves evident in her voice, "Really? I...I am feeling anxious about it."
"Don't worry; Senator Marino has a youthful spirit trapped within an adult persona," reassured Rafael as he delicately caressed Sachiko's cheeks.
"Enough of that talk," interrupted Rina. "It's already ten o'clock in the morning; get dressed because we need to leave soon. I'll take care of washing the dishes."
---
Rafael, Rina, and Sachiko reached the prestigious Penthouse Tower. The awe-inspiring architecture and grandeur of the building captivated them as they made their way to the thirty-seventh floor where the executive offices were situated. As they stepped into the premises, Rafael spotted several individuals including Arjan, Chuck, Jamie, along with Karl's trusted secretaries Fumi and Kazusa.
"Rafael, I had no idea that your father employed such attractive secretaries," exclaimed Sachiko in amazement as Tiffany emerged from the boardroom.
"Rafael, Rina, we've been waiting for you," stated Tiffany, receiving greetings from the siblings. Meanwhile Sachiko remained frozen and speechless in awe of the goddess-like beauty radiating from Tiffany.
"This is Sachiko, my girlfriend," introduced Rafael to the young woman.
"Pleasure to meet you, Sachiko," greeted Tiffany cordially while extending her hand.
"It's... it's a pleasure to meet you too. I greatly admire your work," responded Sachiko nervously as she shook hands with Tiffany.
"Thank you," Tiffany responded with amusement. "Just a heads up, your father is currently in the boardroom alongside Takako, and they are expecting your arrival."
Rafael, Rina, and Sachiko entered the boardroom where Takako and Karl were seated face-to-face. Rina warmly greeted her father with a kiss on his cheek before respectfully bowing to Takako. Meanwhile, Sachiko couldn't help but be captivated by Takako's remarkable beauty, as she exuded an air of regal elegance despite her youthful appearance. Curious to know more about this enchanting lady, Takako inquired politely, "May I have the pleasure of knowing who this lovely woman is?"
Rina promptly responded, "She is Akira Shida's daughter and also my classmate."
"Oh yes! It has been some time since I last saw Akira," chimed in Karl. Turning back to Sachiko he asked curiously: "How has he been doing?"
Without missing a beat or breaking her gentle mannerisms towards Marino-Sama, Sachiko softly replied: "He is still doing well."
Just then, Kazusa entered the room announcing another visitor for Senator Marino
"Please let her in," Takako instructed as Karl sat stoically, his lips forming a frown. A woman entered the boardroom who bore a striking resemblance to Bianca: flawless height, alluring curves, and a face that could captivate any man.
"Arisa, it's been quite some time," Takako greeted warmly, kissing Arisa on both cheeks while glancing at Karl who remained unmoving. "Well, my rather stubborn partner seems unfazed."
Karl frowned again and simply stared at Arisa with an air of detachment as if their shared history meant nothing. He took a sip from his whiskey glass before standing up.
"I haven't seen you in ages," Karl acknowledged Arisa.
"The look in your eyes says it all," responded Arisa nonchalantly. "By the way, this is Touya - my manager and business partner." Karl fell silent and regarded Touya and Arisa with contemptuous disdain. His eyes narrowed slightly as he clenched his teeth."
"It's a pleasure to meet you both," Touya greeted with a polite smile.
"We feel the same way," Takako and Karl responded, shaking Touya's hand.
"Just ignore him," Takako added nonchalantly, referring to the grumpy man beside them.
Curious about their behavior, Sachiko whispered, "What's going on?" In hushed tones, Rina explained, "Arisa is Dad's ex-wife and Bianca and Jasmine's mother."
"Thank you for inviting us to lunch and extending an invitation for the investiture tonight," Arisa expressed her gratitude.
"This is purely business, nothing personal," Takako remarked with a mischievous glint in her eye as Jasmine confidently entered the boardroom and positioned herself behind her indignant father.
"Senator Marino, you have a lunch meeting with the Mayor of Ichinomiya," Jasmine informed her father politely. "Hello, Ms. Kuroki."
"Jasmine, is that the appropriate way to greet your parents?" Arisa asked in a slightly disapproving tone.
"I am at work," Jasmine brushed off her mother's question casually, taking her father out of the boardroom along with her siblings and Sachiko.
"You should get some nice clothes for that ceremony and reception. It's not just any ordinary event," said Jasmine. "There will be royals and A-list celebrities attending the investiture and reception, so dress well."
"What about you dad?" Rina asked curiously.
"After the investiture, I'm going back to the hotel to get some sleep," Karl replied tiredly as he stretched his arms before stepping into elevator
----
The investiture started at six in the evening, with the business heads of the Penthouse Seven Corporation walking down the center towards their seat, the page boys bearing the objects of investiture and was followed by the maidens under Tiffany and Michelle Peng's department, next was the seven stages in their order of appointment from the former Steele-Onizaki Enterprise, first was Hiroyuki Kosaka of the Shark Fist followed by Michelle Peng of the Penguin Fist, Pyon Biao of the Gazelle Fist, Elyhung Kimpo of the Elephant Fist, Barbara Li of the Bat Fist, Sergei Ruskov of the Gorilla Fist followed by Karl Marino of the Felis Fist, next to walk was the chairman of the Penthouse Seven, Takako who wore her iconic white robe and gown, trailed by her handmaids, Yurina, Runa, Yoona and Honoka. And finally, clad in blue and orange accented gown and coat was the newest and the youngest sage, Tiffany Yoon, she sat in the center facing the sages while the Miki, the company's Chief Executive read the proclamation.
"Takako Fujimiya, Chairman of the board, Penthouse Corporation, Sage of the degree, Matron of the seven guardians, ex officio chairman of all subsidiary companies under the umbrella of the penthouse Corporation. To our esteemed colleague, Stephanie Young Hee Yoon, until Assistant Vice President for Human Resource and Promotion of the Penthouse Corporation, now elevated the position of Executive Vice President with a status of second degree sage, after it was vacated because of the retirement of Hiroyuki Kosaka-sage of second degree and upon recommendation of Karl Marino, Chairman Emeritus of the board and Sage of the highest degree, a man of high merit. From this day onward you are discharged of your current position and shall assume your new office with full privilege given hereto."
Takako went forward and faced Tiffany and read the formula of confirmation that was written by the sages themselves.
"I, Takako Fujimiya, Matron of the Sages and chairman of the Penthouse Corporation, hereby confer to you, Stephanie Young Hee Yoon, the title of second degree Sage and shall follow in precedence with your senior sages, you are also hereby appointed Deputy of the Felis Fist and the same time head of the Southeast Asia operations with right of succession to current holder, and new member of the seven guardians.".
Tiffany then stood up and raised her right hand, showing her thumb, point and middle finger and took her oath before the Matron of the Sages.
"I, Stephanie Young Hee Yoon, do solemnly swear and promise, that I will uphold the values of the Sages and the rules of the Penthouse Seven Corporation both in my mind and in my heart and I will do this obligation freely, without any reservation or purpose of evasion."
One by one, the sages came forward and greeted her, bequeathing the symbols of their sage-hood.
"Stephanie, please accept this chain ball replica and a book, a symbol of wisdom in fun," Ely hung shakes the new sage's hand.
"Please accept this locket as a symbol of my acceptance for you as sage," Michelle, embraces Tiffany and placing the locket around her neck "Congratulation, your hard work finally paid off"
"Tiff, please accept this ring as one of the symbol of the triangle," Pyon Biao said, placing the ring on her finger
"Tiffy, please accept this brooch as one of the symbol of the triangle," Sergei added, placing the brooch on Tiffany's shoulder
"Tiff, welcome to the club, please accept this medallion, the symbol you're officially a sage alongside us," Barbara remarked placing the medallion around Tiffany's neck and finally Karl Marino's turn who gave her the badge that she will wear as a sage.
Karl declared, "Tiffany, today you have become a sage. Your hard work and dedication have earned you this honor alongside the other seven sages and Takako. This badge symbolizes your commitment to upholding the principles of the sages. You deserve this recognition because you believed in yourself and remained steadfast in that belief. Accept it not only as a mark of authority but also as a reminder of your duty, obligation, and responsibility to uphold our beliefs and principles." With those words, Karl placed the badge on Tiffany's left shoulder.
-------
The lengthy and tiresome ceremony reached its finale with Tiffany delivering a speech at the podium, addressing business partners, stockholders, celebrities, and politicians. A reception followed the event. The other attendees and Takako left early due to exhaustion from the demanding ceremony. However, Michelle Peng and Tiffany (who served as hosts) stayed behind despite their own fatigue from managing the event. Meanwhile, Riko was joined by her children and Sachiko while conversing with Mayuko - a renowned top model who also happened to be a friend of the Marino family matriarch.
"Nice to see you here, Riko," Mayuko greeted her politely, giving the Marino matriarch a kiss on both cheeks.
"The pleasure is mine. By the way, these are my kids and my goddaughter," Riko replied with a smile.
As Riko entered the main hall, all eyes turned towards her and Sachiko. Many people were overheard questioning why someone like Sachiko was attending such an upscale event alongside the legendary figure of Riko.
"Try not to pay attention to what they're saying," Riko whispered reassuringly to Sachiko as they confidently made their way down the aisle holding Rafael's hand.
"It's been ages since we last saw you, legendary Riko Minamoto," one actress remarked in awe.
"We can hardly believe our eyes; you still look so youthful!" praised Koji, a prominent fashion executive and friend of the Marino family.
"Oh thank you! That's very kind of you," responded an appreciative Riko with gratitude written on her face Curiosity filled one actress who looked at Sachiko keenly before asking: "Who is that girl?"
The woman in question is the daughter of a close friend of my husband, Riko explained. Sachiko greeted her by bowing her head, which surprised everyone and drew even more attention to Riko.
"Oh look, another bold moment from the wife of the Caracal," Michelle Peng commented as she patted Riko on the back.
"I thought you had already left the party," remarked Riko.
"I couldn't just leave Tiffany here alone on her special night. I'll be leaving in about thirty minutes though," responded Michelle. Meanwhile, all eyes turned to another guest who approached Riko - an elegant woman in her fifties with a slender figure and round eyes that still exuded youthfulness.
"Emi Takanashi," Sachiko whispered with a hint of surprise.
"It's been quite some time, Riko," Emi greeted the esteemed Marino matriarch.
"We haven't crossed paths for a while. You still manage to maintain your youthful appearance," Riko said with a subtle sarcastic smile.
As if to reciprocate the compliment, Emi replied, "And so do you." "How is your husband?" asked Emi curiously, causing Riko to raise an eyebrow in response.
"He is currently engaged with the deputy prime minister. Why are you looking for him when it seems like you have nightly conversations together?" remarked Riko.
Amidst all eyes gravitating towards these legendary figures in the industry, many anticipated that their rivalry would be reignited once more. However, contrary to popular belief and media speculation, there was genuine respect shared between them. After all, Emi owed her return to show business and even her life itself at one point to Riko's intervention. A few minutes later at the event,,
"Riho Toujou," uttered by none other than Riko herself.,
"It has been a considerable amount of time since we last met, Riko-san . How have things been? Riho politely bowed
"Still doing well, and you?" Riko reciprocated.
"I'm still busy. Thanks to your support, I have managed to overcome many difficult years," Riho replied as Arisa approached from behind her.
"What a coincidence," said Arisa, gesturing towards a woman mingling in the crowd. "Yuuna Suzuhara is here."
"It's quite remarkable that all the women who have been involved with Karl are present," Michelle commented, evoking anger from Karl's legal wife.
"The first wife, the current wife, the original mistress, the other mistress, and the woman who drove him crazy about caracals," Tiffany affirmed in agreement with Penguin-fist's Mistress statement.
"It's unfortunate that Karl himself isn't present," Michelle made another jab before being silenced by Suzuka covering her mouth. A few moments later, all guests in attendance atthe ballroom were once again astounded; thinking it would be resolved between Riko
"It is Mariya Nagahara and Ahn Ji Young," one of the guests exclaimed. Upon hearing those names, Riko and Emi's grip on their glasses tightened, visibly agitated. Riho, who was observing the scene, was perplexed by their reaction.
"Emi Takanashi, Riko Minomoto, Arisa Kuroki and Riho Toujou," Mariya greeted the three with a polite tone. "It is delightful to see you all here along with Yuuna Suzuhara."
"The feeling is mutual," Riho responded on behalf of her companions. This prompted Arisa, Riko, and Emi to shoot sharp glances at her.
"It has been quite some time since we last met,Riko and Emi," Ji Young greeted them with a slight bow.
"Yes indeed, it has been awhile." Despite trying to maintain composure outwardly,Riko found herself thinking inwardly: "I acknowledge that my husband may have his flaws, but competing against these women seems utterly foolish."
"I heard your new fashion collection was a success," Mariya greeted Emi and Riho, maintaining a polite tone. "Congratulations."
"The five of you possess timeless beauty," Ji Young complimented the group, though Riko knew it to be insincere. Riko forced a smile while Emi discreetly turned her head away from them.
"Thank you, the same can be said for the two of you," Riho replied with courtesy, despite Arisa's, Riko's, and Emi's inner displeasure.
"It is remarkable what advancements in plastic surgery have achieved," murmured Emi with agreement as Riko nodded along with laughter.
"Well then, it appears Botox has worked wonders for both of you as well," Ji Young countered calmly. "The two aspiring corporate titans who continually engage in battles against our confident corporate trailblazers."
"At least we have full control over our own business, in contrast to the two of you," Riko responded confidently, "Utilizing your husband's influence."
"Look who's talking," Mariya retorted sharply.
"I do not rely on my husband's influence; I possess more power than him," Riko boasted.
"Well then, may the most accomplished spouse and enterprise prevail," Mariya declared to Emi and Riko.
"My husband possesses a remarkable beauty that surpasses both of you," Riko whispered. Arisa, Riho, and Emi were left perplexed by her unusual statement. "It is true, Emi - Karl is more attractive than you, Arisa; even those two individuals and Riho."
-----
As the elegant guest observed the confrontation among Karl's three love interests, some continued to gaze at Sachiko while others were taken aback by her presence. She also faced disdain from other attendees, and even a group of actresses approached her.
"You don't seem like an affluent heir," remarked one of them to Sachiko.
"But Riko Marino invited me," politely replied Sachiko.
"I bet she practically begged Ms. Riko to have you here," scoffed another actress, mocking the young woman.
"There is no place for someone like you in this setting," contemptuously declared yet another actress, attempting to pour wine on Sachiko. Thankfully, Rafael shielded her and bore the spill himself. Upon witnessing the incident, Riko quickly intervened and made her way towards the actresses who had caused trouble.
"The three of you are still at a lower level, so don't act as if you're part of high society," Riko said, splashing a glass of champagne at the three actresses. Emi glared and agreed with Riko.
"Riko, money can't buy class and manners," she said, while the matriarch Marino nodded in agreement.
"Insulting her is an insult to me; let's leave now," Riko told Sachiko and the twins, leaving out of disappointment and anger. Emi also left because of the incident. Mayuko tried to stop Riko by holding her hand.
"It's just a coincidence; come on," explained Mayuko.
"You know I'm stubborn when I want to be." Brushing off Mayuko's attempts, Riko entered their limousine with Emi.
"I guess it's time for me to join them," Michelle added.
"I'll take care of it, Unni," Tiffany said as she bid farewell to Riko. Michelle then proceeded to enter the limousine.
---
Sachiko was in tears on her way home, still upset about the incident. She didn't let the humiliation bother her too much, but she felt guilty for causing trouble for Riko. Comforting his girlfriend, Rafael wiped away Sachiko's tears and reassured her.
"Don't blame yourself. There are people out there who act like they're better than everyone else and think they can get away with anything," said Riko gently while playfully pinching Sachiko's cheeks.
"I've come across many of those types - all glitz and glamour on the surface, but inside it's a different story." Emi agreed with a sage nod and added,
"You were raised by your father to have class and dignity. Don't let this affect you." Michelle bowed to Riko as she commented, "There was a lot of talk going around about some guests being social climbers. I'm not sure how they managed to get invitations."
"You shouldn't bow to us, you're a respected sage and executive. It goes against the rules for a higher-ranking woman like yourself to bow in front of those of lower rank," Riko gently reminded her.
"I don't see it as an insult or embarrassment towards me. Instead, I view it as a gesture of humility and a way to ask for forgiveness as fellow human beings," Michelle calmly added while exchanging smiles with Riko.
"As one of our esteemed guardians, there's no need for you to apologize. Your actions are always driven by what is best for our business and ourselves," reassured Riko, providing Michelle with assurance.
They continued their journey towards the street where the Izakaya restaurant and Rafael's apartment were located. After dropping off the young man and his girlfriend, they made their way back to the hotel together.