okiya-subaru:

“Understandable. I have also taken to avoiding certain topics whilst on possibly compromised phones.” And yet more hints that he’s not just some random engineering major.

London? A few ideas flitted through his mind. So something happened back when this kid was living there? (He made a mental note to look it up later.)

“Oh, I’m not too far, actually. Pulling up now.”

Hakuba had given up the idea that Subaru had been what he said he was quite some time ago; he had known engineers, and Subaru was far too sociable and observant to fit that model. All subsequent evidence gathered further supported his theories. But he’d hold off on deduction for the time being. 

“Excellent. If you don’t mind holding on the line for just a moment, I’ll inform the security team." 

The detective put the cellphone on mute and briskly left the parlor, calling into the hallway to alert the man that was conducting another sweep of the hallway. A moment later, he was back on the line. 

"They’ll direct you to the underground parking area and then escort you to where I am. I hope that’s agreeable.”

okiya-subaru:

“Oh, I see. That would be nice, but not likely for them to give up such endeavors. I look forward to hearing the details of what those sharks were involved in.”

If this kid pissed off the Black Organization, he would have to be guarded. Probably make Hakuba stay at the professor’s place if possible or with him. Not like Subaru could contact the FBI at the moment and it was unlikely Hakuba would accept their protection. Black Organization involvement was a pretty big if, as there were many kinds of criminals in the world. Still, always keep multiple plans on hand if the need arises.

“Another taste that may be, but there are many crimes that could fall under whatever it is they may have done. You haven’t been specific, though there are many reasons why that could be the case.” Given how vague Hakuba was being, it was something he didn’t wish to divulge, through oaths not to reveal it. Or personal trauma. Or it was something he was terrified of sharing with others for fear of divulging to the wrong person and someone killing him, like pissing off about any major crime organization.

“To be honest, I’m still attempting to sort out just how much I’m comfortable divulging – to anyone. But I will give you further details when you’ve arrived. Not that I don’t trust you, but I have no way of knowing which lines are safe at present for open communication… and with people so worked up…" 

Hakuba sighed again, leaning back against the wall in the parlor. 

"Actually, it’s likely been blown completely out of proportion. Yes, I’ve been receiving a lot of threatening and insulting letters and emails, but it seems that most of the activity is originating from London. I’m relatively certain that I’m safe here in Japan… but my father worries. How close are you, by the way?”