Chapter 10! I finally got my lazy self back on the computer and finished. I tried to make sure this chapter was long since I took forever writing. Please enjoy.

Disclaimer: I'm not ever going to own Gakuen Alice. I probably don't need to put these up anymore do I?

"Alright baka last time I taught you the basics…" Hotaru tapped her pointer on the board floating beside her, "Today you are going to learn about the techniques in-depth along with how to pick your target."

"Right!"

Mikan sits up straight in her chair, her attention completely on Hotaru and the board hovering to the side. It was their last period before lunch. The girls were set up around their usual seats. A little off to the side in the row behind them was Natsume and Ruka with Koko sitting on the edge of the desk behind him. All three of them were watching the two girls as Hotaru started the lesson.

She tapped the top of the column on the right, "As we discussed last week there are several simple methods that could be used for threatening, blackmail, extortion, etc. Photographs are one of the simplest yet effective methods to blackmail. Pro: visual evidence is more convincing, they're easy to take almost anywhere with a good camera and are perfect to sell in any size to your customer's. Note: Fan's are the best area to target when you're selling your pictures, especially women." Mikan quickly scribbled down notes as Hotaru paused before shifting her pointer to the left column.

"Con: you cannot take pictures if your view of the target is blocked, they're harder to take at night, if the timing or angle is wrong they're useless, they cost more to produce than some of the other methods and most importantly, if all of your copies, even the negatives are somehow gone then you've lost the picture completely." Mikan nodded, scribbling down everything important as quickly as she could. "Any questions?"

Mikan finished writing the last sentence in her notebook before asking, "How do keep your target from destroying your pictures?" After pausing for a second Hotaru brought out another board on her other side, "A surprisingly good question coming from you." Koko snickered earning a glare from Mikan, "Unfortunately another con of photographs is that they could be destroyed rather easily. Guarding them with spells or hiding them in hard to find places is usually how you protect them but if your opponent is strong, smart or both like me" Mikan rolls her eyes earning a whap on the head from Hotaru, "Then they could find a way past your defenses and get their hands on the goods."

"To prevent the complete loss of your pictures you have to make sure that at least the negatives survive. In a worst-case scenario the negatives could perish and you could use another regular copy but it's a bit more difficult to work with. However…" She gestured to the other board where the floating chalk scribbled words and pictures, "…the recent advancements in combining the human's technology with magic have decreased the chances of those possibilities from happening. The new spell book computers that just came out are especially useful for storing, protecting, and exploiting the information you have. This brings us to video recordings…"

As the ice queen continues with her lecture the boys watch with slightly horrified fascination. Ruka leans over to Natsume, lowering his voice "This seems so wrong. I feel like Imai is corrupting Sakura by teaching her how to blackmail. She's even going along willingly and taking notes. What if she changes for the worse because of this?" The thought of Mikan becoming more like Hotaru sent a shiver of fear down his spine.

Koko lets out a chuckle and leans toward him, "Don't worry she won't turn out like that. Hotaru only agreed to teach her because she's proud that she is the master of extortion and thinks that she'll be able to tolerate Mikan more. The main reason Mikan is doing this is because she gets to spend more time with her and will have more reasons for Hotaru to talk to her. Even if she becomes good at it she won't use it against you if she uses it at all." Ruka lets out a sigh of relief. Natsume leans back in his chair, "Tch what stupid reasons. Imai should not be giving polka funny ideas."

"Oh?" Koko raises an eyebrow at him, "This wouldn't happen to be about what happened at yesterday's rehearsal would it?" Natsume stiffens. Ruka looks confusedly at Natsume then Koko, "What happened at yesterday's rehearsal?" A grin spreads across Kokos face, "That's right you weren't there last night. Now this will shock you but Natsume showed up in the middle of the rehearsal and practiced his scenes with everyone else." Ruka's jaw hit the floor. Natsume Hyuuga actually participating in any school function, especially a play was unheard of. Ruka stares at his best friend, blue eyes wide with shock, "You of all people willingly rehearsed for the play?"

He feels his forehead, testing for a fever. Natsume irritatingly swats his hand away, "Like hell I did." Koko does his best to hold back his laughter. He wipes a tear from his eye and pats Ruka on the back, "Don't worry he didn't do it willingly. You know there's another reason Mikan is taking lessons from the Ice Queen." The raven-haired lad glares at his talkative friend, telling him with his eyes to shut up. Koko ignores him; "Basically she wants to get this guy" he jerks his thumb toward Natsume, "under control so that he'll stop acting like a total ass all the time. She used what she learned from last week's lesson to force him into rehearsing with everyone. He didn't resist much so I think he's starting to lik-oof!"

He was suddenly silenced by Natsume's fist connecting with his stomach. Lying down on the desk the now silent mind reader quietly clutches his stomach. Ruka lets out a tired sigh, "You shouldn't sucker punch your friends Natsume. You know it's not a big deal if you went along with her demands. I know you got back at her afterwards." Natsume looks at him, "Your special hearing is annoying sometimes. I thought you didn't know what happened yesterday."

He smiled, "One of the perks of my species. I didn't know what happened at the rehearsal but I heard her scream and yell at you for your little prank on the way to the dorms over a mile away. From what Koko just told me I managed to connect the dots. You don't back down easily nor do you play small pranks like that and laugh so hard. Yet you did that to her. You're starting to get along with her aren't you?"

"Hn"

"Don't give me that. It's not like getting along with her is a bad thing. In fact I think she's a positive influence on you." Natsume glances at Mikan before looking questionably at his friend. Koko, having recovered from the punch, slides off the desk and puts his arm around him, "I agree with Ruka. Ever since she came here you've almost stopped ditching class. You're brooding less than usual. Your violent reactions have become gentler like how you just punched me instead of turning me into a pile of ashes. Whether it's teasing, arguing or taunting I have heard you talk with her more than you've spoken in your entire life. The best part is that you seem a bit happier. All in all she's good for you and I think you have a soft spot for her."

Roughly he removes the arm around his neck, "Nonsense." His eyes wander back to the brunette. Despite his best efforts he couldn't help but ponder what his two friends had said. 'Has my attitude actually changed and I haven't noticed it? Does she really have that kind of effect on me? No it's probably that stupid bond thing that's making me act and feel weird.'

"Dude quit making excuses and admit that you like her at least a little."

"Shut up or I'll hit you so hard you'll be in bed for a week."

"Hey morons quit your blethering" All three of the boys look toward the source of the voice. Hotaru had stopped her lesson and is looking at them coldly. She points at Ruka, "You come over here. I need an example." For a moment he doesn't move, contemplating his chances of being able to say no and get away with it. With a small grimace he gingerly gets up and moves to stand near his tormentor.

She turns to look behind her "Yuu come over here for a sec." Hurrying to her command Yuu Tobita the class president quickly comes and stands next to Ruka. Pushing his glasses up he's smiles politely at Hotaru, "Is there something you need Hotaru?"

"Just an example. Pay attention baka." Mikan straightens up pencil at the ready. Hotaru taps both boys with her pointer, "These two are perfect examples of easy prey." Both boys look at her in shock, Ruka with a slightly more horrified expression, "They both have key traits that are common among the weaker targets. Exhibit A." She pokes Yuu, "He is very smart yet rather weak-willed. This lack of backbone is what helps us overcome the obstacle of him being intelligent enough to get rid any incriminating evidence we would have against him. However given his kind and gentle nature it is not recommended to target this kind of person if you have any morals or pride whatsoever. Only strike against him if he strikes against you. Thank you Yuu you may sit down if you want."

With a small frown he walks around the desk to grab the chair next to Mikan, "Um thank you? Do you mind if I sit through the rest of this lesson?"

She nods her head, "Not at all." Yuu takes his seat flashing a quick smile at Mikan who gladly returns it before shifting her attention back to Hotaru. Poking her next example the lesson continues, "Exhibit B, bunny boy here is perfect for earning money. His handsome features capture the attention of most girls. Add in his nice personality and good manners he's an attractive man to women in general. It is likely that he has fan girls, which he does, that you could sell to. He's not as smart but is more defiant. Yet he is easy to manipulate as long you have plenty against him."

Ruka open's his mouth to protest but before he can speak Hotaru pulls out some pictures, "These are from last night. If you don't want them spread around then don't resist" For a moment he stares at the photos of himself. Glumly he gestures for her to continue. Mikan watches with eyes full of curiosity "What's in the pictures?" Hotaru quickly puts the pictures away, "Bunny boy here is cooperating and believe it or not I do try to keep my word so you're not allowed to see."

Mikan frowns and tries to ignore her curiosity. A thought pops into her head. She looks at Ruka questioningly, "Come to think of it Ruka-pyon you weren't at rehearsal yesterday. What were you doing last night anyway?" Shifting uncomfortably he tries to avoid her gaze, "Nothing much just…getting some fresh air." This makes the brunette even more confused, "Outside? But everyone was supposed to be in his or her room after the rehearsal. Well except for…" Everyone watching her could sense the gears in her brain turning. 3…2…1 Ding!

"Oh…Oh! Cool! You're a…a…" She was bouncing a little in her seat trying to contain her excitement at figuring it out. Ruka, looking a little worried, attempts to calm her down, "Yes Sakura I'm a werewolf. Please calm down." She stops bouncing but looks at him in slight amazement. A snort is heard behind them. They all look at Natsume who is leaning back against his chair, smirking at Mikan, "Sure took you long enough stupid." Mikan puffs her cheeks out in annoyance and turns all the way around to face him, "Shut up. Don't call me stupid."

Rolling his eyes he leans forward on the desk, "Why not? You're stupid. You've known Ruka since you got here which was about a month and a half ago and you hadn't figured it out till now. This just goes to show that you're a total idiot polka."

"It's not like it was that obvious you jerk!" She snaps at him "Also I am not stupid or an idiot. Don't call me polka."

"Oh then what should I call you today strawberry or stripes?"

"Call me by my frickin name, not by my underwear!"

Ruka sighs and looks at Hotaru, "Imai can I sit down now?" She watches the fight for a moment before clearing the board, "Yes you may since it seems that the lesson is over for today. The bell is going to ring soon anyway." Ruka sits back down in his seat rubbing his temples, trying to ignore the fight between Natsume and Mikan. Yuu turns around and scoots over to sit across from Ruka, "Cheer up Ruka. Today hasn't been all bad." Ruka looks him in disbelief, "How? Natsume is fighting with Mikan AGAIN. I was just blackmailed and embarrassed by Imai AGAIN. I think I'm getting a headache AGAIN. I really don't see an upside to all that."

"What about the compliment Hotaru gave you?"

Ruka expression turns confused, "What compliment?"

Yuu raises his eyebrows then gets a small grin on his face, "Weren't you listening? She said and I quote 'His handsome features capture the attention of most girls. Add in his nice personality and good manner's he's an attractive man'. Handsome features, nice personality, good manners, he's an attractive man? That sounds a lot like a compliment to me."

Ruka stares at Yuu stunned. Then as it sinks in his face turns bright red. Before he can utter a word the bell rings, signaling the end of class and the beginning of lunch. Mikan grabbing her stuff leaves in a huff with Hotaru first.

Mikan POV

That rude, stupid, inconsiderate, perverted, egotistical, self-centered sneaky fox! Why must he call me names? By the name of my panties no less! Oh he makes me so mad. Hotaru and I enter the cafeteria. Quickly we get in line, me behind Hotaru. I take a few deep breaths to calm my self down. Slowly my anger disappears leaving behind just a hint of annoyance.

I wish he would call me by my real name like last night. It was really nice when he said it. Also I don't know why but when I was in my room, after I realized that he said my name for the first time I got a warm fuzzy feeling…weird. Why did he do that last night anyway? I didn't give him a reason too did I? Lets see last night... I was walking to the dorms, I think I saw that guy, Natsume played his prank on me, I got mad then told him about the guy, he got really quiet and tense, he walked me back to the dorms, told me not to worry and called me by my real name. I guess he was too preoccupied with his thoughts and called me by my name on accident. It must have something to do with that guy who dresses all in black and wears that creepy mask.

We reach the counter where the food is served. Tonight is spaghetti and bread rolls. I spot Anna and Nonoko at our usual table. I sit down and greet them as usual. As they chatted about the festival I poke at my spaghetti, take a bite and chew it slowly.

What is the deal with that guy in the mask? What is the connection between him and Natsume? There's something going on but i can't figure out what. What's the advice Hotaru tells me for these kinds of problems? She says… List what you know and put the pieces to together baka. Yeah something like that.

Okay list what I know: That mask man is the one Natsume does those favors for. Of the few times I have stumbled upon Natsume after he does a favor he is hurt and I had caught a glimpse of him with the mask man earlier in the day. Natsume does not like doing theses favors nor does he seem to like the mask man but he does them anyway. It's supposed to be a secret and it seems like I'm the only one among our friends who knows that Natsume is doing this but I don't know what he actually does during them except that it's dangerous.

Conclusion: The mask man is forcing Natsume to do things for him. He doesn't like it but can't stop which means that the mask man has something big or important against him. Blackmail. What could the mask man be using against Natsume? My eyes wander to Hotaru who is somehow gobbling up her pasta in a graceful manner. Since she's the expert on blackmail she could probably figure it out or at least give me a good guess if I asked.

I give myself a mental headshake. I'm sure Hotaru is the last person Natsume would want me to tell. I'd probably have to pay her too. Even if Natsume is a jerk and even if we fight a lot he has helped me before and he trusts me to not blab about this to anyone. I don't know why but it makes me kind of happy that he trusts me and I don't want to break his trust no matter what. Despite how much we fight I can't bring myself to dislike him. Actually I kind of enjoy his company. Also when he's not in class I worry about more than I should. Not to metion those random moments of insanity when I think he's attractive. I feel a flutter in my stomach. What's going on with me?

"Heeelllooo? Mikan! Anyone home?"

I blink myself back to reality. Apparently Anna and Nonoko were trying to get my attention. "I'm sorry guys what were you saying?" Anna lets out a sigh while Nonoko shakes her head; "We were talking about going to the haunted house since this years festival will be on all hollows eve. Mikan you've been quiet ever since lunch started is something bothering you?"

I shake my head no and try to smile convincingly. I can't let them know I'm thinking about Natsume or I'll never hear the end of it. Nonoko takes a sip of her drink before saying, "Actually you only get like this when you're brooding about something." Anna swallowed a mouthful of spaghetti and continues for her, "There are only a few things that make you brood like that. Usually it's Natsume." Right after she said that they both gasp. A big, mischievous grin spreads across their faces. Damn they figured it out.

"Ah ha! You were thinking about Natsume weren't you?" They said it simultaneously. I swear it's like they share a brain. Hotaru gives an intrigued look but chooses not to say anything. This is turning from bad to worse, "I was not thinking about that sneaky fox." They both raise an eyebrow in disbelief.

"Don't lie. You so were thinking about Natsume. Admit it."

"So you do think about me polka."

I turn around and see Natsume, Ruka, Koko, and Yuu standing there. Natsume has a smirk on his face and a smug look in his deep crimson eyes. Great, as if his ego wasn't big enough already. He puts his tray down next to mine and sits in the empty seat next to me. I narrow my eyes, "No I do not. Don't you guys usually sit somewhere else?"

Ruka sits down next to Natsume, offering me an apologetic smile, "Normally we do but some other students took our spot." Koko and Yuu take the empty seats across from Ruka and Natsume.

I glare at Natsume who still has that annoying smirk. I just know he won't let go of what Anna and Nonoko said earlier, "You finally admit that you like me." There he goes. I focus my gaze on the food in front of me, "No that's just what Anna and Nonoko think." He starts twisting the pasta around his fork, "Denial is a sign of a small mind. We both know you can't resist my charms so go ahead and admit how you feel." I clench my fork so hard I nearly break it. Why do I bother worrying about him when he does nothing but taunt me? Whatever I refuse to just sit here and take this. My eyes land on my untouched bread rolls. Aha I have an idea.

I flash him the brightest smile I can manage. His smirk disappears. For a second he's caught off guard but keeps a straight face, "Alright Natsume I'll show you exactly how I feel right now." The smug look in his eyes was now replaced by suspicion. With the smile still on my face I grab a bread roll. I say a small incantation to change its shape so that it looks like Natsume's head. I hold it up in front of him and grab my butter knife with my other hand. In one quick jab I stab the butter knife through his bread head, the tip showing at the other side. Natsume watches me silently though I can tell that he doesn't like this. I deliberately move the knife back and forth slowly, cutting the bread in half. I scoop up some noodles with my fork and put it between the two halves like a sandwich, "Wow look at your little spaghetti brains leaking out of your tiny bread head". I take a big bite, making sure to get the face. After chewing and swallowing I lick my lips and show an even bigger smile to Natsume, "Have I made my feelings clear?"

He narrows his eyes at me, "Crystal"

I go back to eating the rest of my food. Around the table I could see everyone's reaction. Hotaru has a hint of amusement in her eyes, Ruka and Yuu are trying to hide the smile on their faces, Koko, Nonoko, and Anna are covering their mouths, and shaking from the effort of holding in their laughter. Natsume is grumpily eating his spaghetti. He gives Koko a smack on the head clearly showing how annoyed he is. I won this round. He's probably going to get back at me for this later so I better enjoy it while I can.

Before I can bask in my glory a letter floats to our table. It stops and lands lightly in front of Natsume. He picks it up to open it. As he reads it his mood subtly gets darker. His aura begins to feel menacing. I glance at the others. They're all focused on their own conversations. Am I the only one who's noticed that Natsume is getting upset? Whatever is in that letter is disturbing him. I bet it has something to do with the mask man. I peek over at the letter trying to read what it says without him noticing. I barely finish before the bell rings. Natsume gets up to go to the trashcan. He throws the ashes of what was once the letter into it.

Everyone gets up and leaves their trays on the cleanup cart. Together we all walk toward the exit for rehearsal. Nobody notices the change in Natsume's mood. The message on that letter reappears in my mind.

Natsume report to me at the usual meeting spot to get the information you need for your next mission. This is a level 4 case, so make it your top priority and come as soon as you can. Make sure no one follows you.

What the heck did it mean by mission? I bet it's those favors Natsume does for that mask guy. From what I can tell it seems like they're more than little favors. I glance over at him he has his poker face on and seems calm but I can sense his unease. A knot forms in my stomach. Natsume is strong and doesn't take crap from anyone. If someone who makes him nervous in any way is ordering him around it means this person is very powerful and someone I shouldn't even think about messing with. Thanks to me being nosy I know that he going to do another favor, I guess I should call it a mission, and I know it's going to be somewhat dangerous. I want to stop him but I'm not supposed to know anything about this. What should I do ignore it and let him go?

The memory of Natsume saving me in central town pops into my head. Then I remember how he kept his word and showed up for class the next day even though he was wounded the day before. There was also the time he showed me how to do the hard math problems so that I would forgive him for flipping my skirt. One time he and Hotaru had a stare off to show who was more scared of whom. Sometimes he burned Koko for saying his thoughts out loud to everyone. Also there was that one time I doodled on his face when he fell asleep in class and couldn't stop laughing and he got mad at me. He's teased me so many times and we've had so many arguments but I don't actually mind.

You know what? I don't care how powerful this mask guy is. Natsume has become an important person to me and I care about his well-being. I deal with Natsume and Hotaru on a daily basis anyway. How much scarier can this guy be? I clench my hands in determination. Natsume is going to sneak off at some point for his meeting.

Well he's not going without me.

I think this kind of ended up as a filler/set-up for the next chapter even though I didn't intend for that to happen. At the very least it's good for a laugh and it'll give you something to hope for in the next chapter. I also tried to set up a timeline for how long Mikan's been at the school. Lets say it's the middle of October, maybe a little earlier and she started school around the end of September/the beginning of August. It'll seem like I skipped a lot of time but I don't think that matters too much. Please leave a review and tell me what you thought about it. If you have any questions I'll PM you an answer or I'll post it with the next chapter. Tata for now.