A/N: Hello guys and apologies for teasing all of you for 2 years. I hope this is somewhat up to scratch. Between the last set of frequent updates, I've gone and graduated from University and have now started working full time. After years of writing for grades and clarity, its really too different for me to really be writing for leisure.

On another note, I would like to let yall know that I might be editing the first 11 Chapters as I am trying to make this work more… logical, starting with a greater depth toward Koichi and Maya's motives.

How much I will choose to adapt from the huge 32 volumes that have finally been released, I honestly have no damn idea, so don't really go expecting me to write 32 volumes worth of words HAHA, after all I'm writing for leisure.

Last thing to note, I am not sure how much of the 2nd season of the Anime I will watch, as I find it pretty painful as a Mayumi supporter to have so much Miyuki action to be very frank. So it may be awhile before I can really finalize my plans for the next 2 arcs as I figure that there is a need for organisation, if not this will turn into more of a fluff fest, which isn't bad, but isn't ideal either.

Do review and help me with my mistakes! Cheers! :)

The sun shone into the classes as usual. It was a particularly fine day to be up and about, yet every student was cooped up again in their classes.

Time seemed to crawl on slowly for Miyuki, Tatsuya and the gang. Shizuku was obviously impatient as she tapped her fingers rapidly on the surface of her in-built desk terminal. Beside her, Honoka glanced out of the window while spinning her stylus, hand on her chin. Close by, Miyuki was yet again paying 'perfect attention' as any model student would, although any of her close friends would be able to tell with one look that the expression plastered on her face was not one of a 'conscious' Miyuki. A floor down, the lack of an instructor made the trio's excitement and tension all the more obvious. Tatsuya was presently using his terminal to read various documents as usual, futilely trying to redirect his attention to his work. Meanwhile, Erika and Leo were bickering with more fervour than usual. It really was anyone's guess why.

Lesson content moved into one ear and out the other that day, no one really gave much thought to the day's work much to the disgruntlement of the instructors, for those classes that had instructors that is. The school was a hive of activity that day, students chattering about the audience while a select few were contemplating how it would go from a very different standpoint. Mayumi herself was just as restless as anyone else. She spaced out frequently that day, her thoughts kept turning to Tatsuya's words. She worried for the school, after all, Egalite probably had some significant connections. Mayumi had thought of asking her father, but decided against it since it wasn't as if they were on very good terms since… well high school started. Pushing that thought aside, she shook her head violently and picked up her water bottle to ensure she would keep awake. This instructor was boring to say the least.

'So much for skilled instructors. I'd rather study this on my own.' Sighing, she thought again of Tatsuya and his ability to do as he pleased. More frequently than not, Mayumi envied the course 2 students more than she enjoyed these so called 'privileges' and 'entitlements', something which 'Blooms' were too stuck up to admit or acknowledge. But perhaps this was also due to her position as a member of the 10 Master Clans. After all, not all magicians were entitled to private tutors and immense libraries' worth of knowledge within the comfort of their home, Mayumi mused as she surveyed the class, with many of her classmates copying down concepts that she had been exposed to long before High School. On that note, her thoughts again returned to the Shiba siblings. They had to be connected to some magical family somehow, given their extraordinary scores. The politics involved in First High and by extension, society, certainly did not please her but yet it was inevitable from birth.

VVVVVV

The bell rung. At long last it was just half an hour to the audience. Tatsuya and Miyuki quickly reminded their friends not to sway from the plan before they headed to their respective locations to fulfil their obligations.

Opening the door to the Public Morals Committee, he saw Mari already sitting at the head of the table, eyes full of thought. Looking up, she motioned for Tatsuya to come over. Wordlessly, he strode over to see the plan.

"Tatsuya, what do you think? Is everything covered?" Mari asked him to his surprise. "Why would you ask me Mari-senpai?" Tatsuya walked over to Mari and leaned over her shoulder. " Regardless, I think we should adjust the positions this way to ensure more overlap so there will be easier movement in case anything happens. Also, this corner is not so important so maybe shifting personnel up would be a good idea. After all, there isn't an entrance from the backstage that won't be covered by the personnel present on the stage anyway" Tatsuya began moving the positions on the document with practiced ease.

She slowly, turned her head toward him and squinted at him, completely amazed. The ease in which he handled the situation was like one of a security expert. As he looked back at her expectantly, she remembered that he had asked a question.

"Well I guess its because Mayumi seems to trust you a lot so it couldn't hurt to ask for your opinion on something. You seem awfully familiar with this though…" She trails off, allowing Tatsuya to grasp the hint.

Realising that he may have tipped his hand, Tatsuya nonchalantly walked to one of the seats at the foot of the table, pretending that nothing was out of the norm. At that moment, Morisaki and the other members entered the room, some greeting her with Kaichou and a various assortment of names including Nee-san and Ojou-sama.

"Good afternoon everyone. Today's briefing will be short and sweet. All you have to know is that we are responsible for everyone's safety. The primary concern would be a possible outbreak of violence from the course 2 students, but be on your guard at all times. Remember your positions and note the various emergency exits and protocols before leaving this room. Is that understood?" Mari glanced across the room sternly.

"Hai!'

"Then here are the positions." The document flashed across the screen. Student councillors' names appeared too, as Tatsuya quickly noted Miyuki's position.

Soon, it was about to begin. Checking their gear, members of the Morals committee began murmuring at the unusual extent of the security deployment. However, since there hadn't been a large town hall since 3 years ago, they didn't so much as question the sudden deployment of manpower. Diligently, they trotted out together, a murmuring mess. Meanwhile…

VVVVVV

(Miyuki POV)

Knocking on the door before entering, Miyuki caught sight of all the senpais. It appears that she was last although she was still technically early. Bowing, she made her way to her seat.

"Alright!" Mayumi stood up and clapped, beaming at everyone in the room. "So in a while, the audience will begin. Courtesy of the Public Morals Committee, we have been given a security document detailing your positions. As I will be on stage, Vice President Hattori will be overseeing security in the hall while Club Management Committee Chairman Juumonji will be handling general security of the school outside the hall. Ehh… wait a minute…" Mayumi fumbled suddenly as she replaced the old document with a new one.

"Sorry for the interruption! This is the finalised version! Note all the protocols before leaving alright! We have 10 minute! Let's finish this!" Mayumi rallied them as all present nodded and smiled, eager to be rid of this extra workload.

VVVVVVV

Tatsuya stood at his position, stoic as ever. His shoulders tense, and he looked ready to pounce. He surveyed the positions of the personnel, monitoring the movement of the students. As far as he knew, they were all as prepared as they could be. Sneaking a peek at Mayumi, she seemed to be in her 'Reliable President' mode, her eyes lacking their usual shine but seemingly joyful and enthusiastic.

Looking to his left, Miyuki seemed as at ease as she always was. As was expected of the Yotsuba heir. Head of security, Hattori, buzzed around like a busy bee, ensuring everyone was prepared. Just then, an announcement was made for the students to enter the hall.

'Right now, Leo and Erika should be sending us a mail...' right then, his terminal vibrated. His lips jerked up into a quick smile, thanking their reliability.

As the event went on, Tatsuya sensed more and more restless feelings amongst the year 2 course 2 students. They were being utterly humiliated, yet in a gentle and peaceful manner. Mayumi tore their weak arguments apart with the force of a tiger and grace of a swan, her sweet smile seemingly adding insult to injury. The town hall reached a climax as Mayumi acknowledged the current discrimination course 1 students had heaped upon the course 2 student population. Drawing from her support as a reliable, approachable and yet unreachable President, she raised support for the removal of one of the symbols of systematic discrimination - the restriction of having only course 1 students elected to the Student Council. Applause from the entirety of the course 2 population erupted from the stands, while the course 1 population followed suit, albeit a bit more reluctantly. Soome faces seemed to betray the shock and uncertainty this new development would bring to their status within the school, while the more open minded students embraced these developments wholeheartedly.

Right then, his terminal vibrated continuously, alerting him to a call. Steeling himself, Miyuki did likewise as right at that moment, a gas canister smashed through the glass of the hall's ceiling. The crowd erupted as course 2 students jumped up from their seats.

"Apprehend the students!" Mari's voice barked as she took command of the crowd while Hattori rushed to deal with the tear gas.

Tatsuya sprinted forward and grabbed a student by his shoulder, as he struggled, he quickly spun him around to his back as he swung his leg backward in an attempt to kick him. Locking his leg, Tatsuya pushed him to the floor and quickly handcuffed him before turning to see Miyuki incapacitate another student. Picking up his terminal, he called Leo before dashing out of the hall, Miyuki in tail leaving the hall to the rest of the security.

Leo did not pick up. Frowning, he sprinted down the courtyard at 15 metres per second aided by magic. Turning a corner, Tatsuya and Miyuki saw red. Mayhem wrecked the courtyard, students were fighting tooth and nail against masked black invaders who were firing at them with live rounds. Scanning the area, he spotted Erika and Leo.

"Miyuki, grab Erika and head to the library, now!" Tatsuya commanded sternly. She nodded and sped off to Erika, freezing a few combatants and dodging projectiles gracefully on the way to her target.

Tatsuya looked for the nearest masked combatant and proceeded to aid his fellow student by flanking him. Activating his CAD, he dashed behind his unsuspecting opponent before delivering a fortified punch to his back. As the man crumpled to a heap, Tatsuya was already on the next opponent like a tiger searching for its prey.

Nearby, Leo was facing off with 3 opponents. He was surrounded, but he wasn't down and neither was he out. "Panzer!"

His CAD glowed blue before he lifted it right in time to intercept the incoming projectile.

"URGH!" Punching out with his fist, he caught the man on his chin flinging him onto his back a good 10 feet away. Right then, he caught sight of a bullet heading his way. His superhuman reflexes kicked in, ducking his head a mere 10 centimeters, the bullet grazed past his hair. Losing no time, he slid over to his opponent. As the man swung his weapon down toward his head, Leo fortified his CAD and delivered an uppercut through his weapon, splintering the metal and breaking his jaw upon contact. Instinctively, Leo swung his right fist round to his back only to catch the last man in his chest and with a sickening crunch, the man flew back.

Heaving a quick sigh of relief, he did not notice the butt of a weapon coming down on his head. Right at that moment, he heard someone collapse behind him. Mouth agape, lo and behold Tatsuya was behind him, his CAD slowly being put down to his side. As Tatsuya smirked, he offered him a hand while his other CAD pointed toward another incoming assailant as he downed him with a 'no look'.

"Let's finish this and get back to Miyuki and Erika." Nodding, they flew at the assailants.

VVVVVVV

Leo and Tatsuya sneaked up behind the presently hiding Erika and Miyuki who were peering at the Library behind a pillar. Leo tapped Erika who spun around to meet him, CAD extended and pointing at his throat. Realising who it was, she lowered her guard and let out a sigh of relief.

Miyuki turned and noticed Tatsuya. Beckoning him to her, he obliged. "Onii-sama, can you use your Elemental Sight? We need to know the best way to approach." Nodding, he closed his eyes.

"The first and second floor are crawling with thugs. The crux of the operation however is in the central data command room where I can see 5 members extracting information from the terminal there. The best way for us to enter would be to split, one group will be a distraction while the other deals with the real reason why they are here." Tatsuya explained.

"Ok, Erika and Leo, you two will be handling the thugs in the entrance while Miyuki and I will quickly head to the central command room. We will mail you if there is a need to." Leo and Erika nodded before sending each other mischievous smiles.

Miyuki looked at Tatsuya who shrugged. The duo then charged into the library with the siblings some distance behind. Soon, the sound of fighting could be heard. Miyuki and Tatsuya evaded the fighting, choosing to jump or fly in Miyuki's case, although dispatching some thugs when necessary. Making their way to the room, they were faced with a huge door.

Miyuki tugged at his sleeve, prodding him to proceed. With a majestic kick, the doors crumbled to lay a group of people and 2 students beyond.

Loud clicks echoed through the passage instantaneously. "Freeze!" The assailants trained their weapons on the two intruders. Two turquoise and white uniforms could be seen amongst the black masked men. Sayaka's eyes widened as her gaze landed on the Shiba siblings, before her brows creased into a frown.

Sweeping the room, Tatsuya simply raised one of his CADs, while Miyuki followed suit.

"I said freeze!" One of the men in the centre shouted again, and the weapons clicked once more, releasing them from their safety caches. The leader trained his eyes down the sights of the conventional weapons, waiting for Miyuki and Tatsuya to drop their CADs.

Glancing at Miyuki, Tatsuya silently communicated a signal. Nodding, both Miyuki and Tatsuya activated their CADs. For just a few moments, the deafening sound of live rounds could be heard, before it all suddenly stopped.

Weapon parts floated in midair, suspended against the will of gravity. A sheet of ice covered the masked men, rendering them motionless. Sayaka's eyes went wide, like saucers, before she suddenly sprang into motion, leaping down the stairs behind Tatsuya.

"Onii-sama! She's escaping!" Miyuki turned toward the stairs, but she stopped, her left arm behind her held by a firm, but soft grip. Shaking his head, Tatsuya smiled sadly, "Let them handle her."

VVVVVVV

Bodies littered the floor, and the pillars in the library's great entrance were scuffed. Bullet sized indents littered the majestic support structures. The two remaining people huffed and puffed, backs against one another in a combat stance.

"Not bad, not bad at all for a bonehead!"

"Who are you calling a bonehead you violent tomboy!"

Despite this, they laughed as Erika turned her head to the right to meet the smirking gaze of the large man who literally, had her back.

Gunshots echoed from within the Library, and both defenders immediately turned their attention toward the noise, ready for anything.

Footsteps could be heard before Miyuki's voice could be heard. Shortly after, a figure sailed from the 2nd floor heading toward the entrance.

Erika's brows creased and a smirk curled on her face.

"Leo, let me handle her!" she said as she recognised the figure.

'Finally, a proper challenge!'

"But it would be faster if we do this together!"

Clicking her tongue, she waved her arm, dismissing Leo, who reluctantly backed off while remaining in front of the library's entrance.

Landing just 4 metres in front of Erika, Sayaka quickly sweeped her eyes across the floor. She swooped down, grabbing a sword from a downed assailant.

"Mibu Sayaka, the middle school Kendo Champion from two years ago." Erika grinned almost excitedly. Sayaka watched Erika as she moved slowly, carefully observing her foe.

"Are you sure you want that weapon? How about this? This is probably more up your alley." A sword that was noticeably thinner, and longer flew toward Sayaka, who observed it carefully before swapping her weapon of choice. "Don't worry, I don't intend to fight you unless its a even fight."

'After all, I do want someone to spar with,' Erika thought, 'other than Leo that is.'

Seemingly having enough, Sayaka charged forth swinging her blade downward toward her foe. Shimmying to the left, Erika returned the blow, swinging her CAD toward Sayaka's midriff to which she parried. From the back, Leo could barely keep up with the speed of blows being exchanged.

After awhile, the two combatants separated once again, Erika still smirking while Sayaka began to look desperate. "Come on! Let's end this!" Erika suddenly bellowed as she charged forward, seemingly teleporting forward as she enhanced her speed dramatically. Sayaka brought her weapon across herself desperately, trying to defend herself.

A loud crack could be heard, before the black haired senior dropped to the ground. Wiping her sweat, Erika quietly congratulated Sayaka for her magnificent performance.

"Are you alright?" Footsteps pattered across the floor as a concerned voice reached Erika's ears. Grinning, she gave Leo a thumbs up. "Who do you think I am?"

VVVVVVVV

Light filtered in through the windows, dressing the room with a soft golden hue. Shadows of just 2 of the 4 beds in the room could be seen as the sun slowly receded beneath the skyline.

Soft whispers emanated from the group of 7 figures in the room. The 3 men remained largely silent, while a red haired and black haired teen traded whispered blows over the situation.

"They should be punished! Leading terrorists into school grounds, is a huge offence, not to mention the use of live rounds on student!"

"What would you know about the real situation without talking to them? Its not like you've ever been discriminated against sight? Erika poked a finger aggressively at Mari's chest, while the latter glared at her.

Leo shifted awkwardly, and looked at Tatsuya who shrugged.

"Ma ma, let's just take it easy first and try to speak to them at the very least, ne Miyuki?" Attempting to defuse the situation, Mayumi looked toward MIyuki expectantly with a soft gaze. Miyuki nodded in agreement.

Tatsuya shifted his posture, unfolding his arm and lifted his chin in the direction of one of the beds. The 6 other gazes followed suit, as the jet black haired girl lying in the bed let out a soft groan, shifting her cast covered arm.

Soft footsteps quickly padded over to the bedside of Sayaka as Sayaka opened her eyes. "Mmm… Mayumi Senpai…?" Mayumi let a gentle smile fall onto her face as she nodded.

"Sayaka, how are you feeling?" At this point, the congregation had gathered around Sayaka's bedside. Leo pushed chairs to each individual, encouraging each member to sit. Taking a seat, Tatsuya nodded at Leo, noting his considerate behaviour of not wanting to overly intimidate Sayaka by standing over her.

"It hurts, but I'm mostly ok." Erika grimaced at her words and apologetically placed her arm on Sayaka's shoulder. "Senpai, am I in trouble?" her eyes widened as she looked at Mayumi expectantly.

"Sayaka," Mayumi placed her hand on Sayaka's unhurt forearm in a comforting, almost motherly manner, "we would like to know what happened, and why you chose to do what you did before taking any action." She nodded and smiled encouragingly.

"After all, you were such a bright and hardworking student all through your first year. Could you tell me what happened?"

Mayumi had grown tremendously from the shy, and isolated girl in middle school, to the confident, emphatic leader who did her best to interact with those she met. Her social skills, and influence had certainly grown as she matured.

"I… I'm sorry Senpai, for… for believing in me… but I felt… that this place discriminated against me… so… so much that I could not stand for it…" at this, tears welled up in her eyes. Mayumi brushed Sayaka's hair back and nodded to acknowledge her while the rest remained silent.

"We wer being called 'weeds' everyday, and even in club activities… in the kendo club… I was discriminated…" Sayaka sniffed as she turned her gaze downward, wiping her tears.

"Could you tell me more, Sayaka? I really want to help."

Sayaka's gaze slowly lifted, resting in between Erika and Juumonji. Mari looked around cautiously, before pointing at herself in confusion.

"Watanabe senpai said that I would be no match for her, and she did not want to spar with me…"

At this, Mari and Tatsuya raised surprised looks at Mari, while Juumonji and Miyuki simply glanced at her waiting for her response. Erika glared daggers at Mari while Mari sputtered,"I… I said no such thing! In fact, I said that I would be no match for you since kendo trains pure swordsmanship, while I rely on my magic far too much for me to be a proper foe."

Sayaka's jaw quivered even more violently. "So… that means that… that… I did all this over a… a simple misunderstanding?" Mayumi gently cradled the girl. Without warning, Sayaka buried her face in Mayumi's embrace and began to cry.

Soothing the girl, Mayumi apologetically met the eyes of the congregation while Tatsuya and Miyuki smiled gently at the sight.

VVVVVVV

Chandeliers hung from the 4-storey high ceiling as warm lighting permeated the room. Warm red coloured sofas lined were positioned facing one another in groups of four, with a large coffe table situated in the centre, while the main counter stood in the center of the room, hiding the elevators that brought patients and visitors to their wards.

The sun had long set at this point. Mari and Erika seemed to be pointedly ignoring one another after their face off in the ward, while the rest of the group sat quietly on the sofas awaiting the final member of their party.

*Ding*The sound of the elevator emanated through the lobby and the familiar steady "clack clack clack" of Mayumi's platform heels filled the air. Gathering around her, Mayumi gave a sad smile, "It seems a bit difficult to avoid bringing in Sayaka doesn't it?"

The party waited for someone else to respond. "It does seem a bit convenient, that her memory seems just a bit twisted in the right way. You noticed the same didn't you, Shiba?" Tatsuya slowly nodded.

"If we were looking to avoid bringing Sayaka senpai in, we may have to go directly for the main perpetrators of this incident." At this, eyes glanced from one person to the next, daring someone to spill the name "Blanche".

"Tatsuya," Mayumi looked directly at him, her mesmerising crimson eyes piercing his own ocean blue. Shifting his body weight slightly, he nodded.

"I assume you would be able to find the location of Blanche?" Tatsuya hesitated slightly, before slowly responding, "I can look into it."

"I would appreciate it if you could do it for me, on behalf of Sayaka. She does not deserve this." Her intense gaze continued to pierce his own. Seeing her sincerity, he sighed and nodded. "I do not guarantee anything, but if I find anything I will let you know."

Mayumi nodded, her features relaxing into a smile as her chest filled with feelings of warmth and appreciation. An intense gaze bore into Tatsuya's side, as Miyuki frowned at the situation.

VVVVVV

"Honami, we are home~" Miyuki squeezed in front of Tatsuya, poking her head into the doorway, her melodious voice carrying through the air.

"Ah, welcome home!" I'll quickly reheat the food." A head of black hair swept into the kitchen as their foster mother gave them a smile.

Since entering High School, she had begun to give Tatsuya and Miyuki more leeway with regard to their curfew.

Thanking Honami, Tatsuya trudged to his designated seat at the dining table and relaxed into the wood frame. 'What have I gotten into now?'

VVVVVV

Dinner was a relatively quiet affair. An awkward silence descended upon the household. Looks were exchanged between Miyuki and Honami as their 'mother' tried to figure out what had happened.

"Its Blanche isn't it?" Tired of the charade, Honami came into the open with her guess.

Placing his spoon and fork on the table, Tatsuya nodded. "They attacked the school through Tsukasa Hajime and a year 2 senpai." Sensing that wasn't the entire story, Honami paused and nodded, looking back at Miyuki who confirmed her theory by urging Tatsuya to continue.

"It seems as if Sayaka senpai might have been a victim of some memory alteration magic," his brows creased as he continued eating, awaiting a response from Honami.

Stroking her chin thoughtfully, Honami tilted her head to one side, "Still, that doesn't explain why it bothers you. It clearly is a threat to Miyuki, hence as her guardians," at this, Miyuki shot Honami and Tatsuya dirty looks, " *ahem* I mean as her family, we should take care of her well being by removing the threat, I don't really see the issue here…?"

"Its because Mayumi specifically requested his help with avenging Sayaka senpai that is causing him grief. Not to mention, Juumonji senpai, the head of the Club Management Committee has also suspected that Onii-sama may be attempting to deal with the situation." Miyuki interjected to explain the current predicament.

"I see, it seems as if we might have attracted some attention from the 10 Master Clans," Honami frowned while Tatsuya sighed, "Not to mention, Tatsuya can't seem to really reject Mayumi's advances." She smirked slyly at him, gaining the ire of both siblings.

"Honami, this isn't the time to joke, our previous recourse of removing the threat independently seems to no longer be viable, not to mention, both the Saegusa and Juumonji clans may be gaining suspicion of us."

"Well, the information security surrounding all of us is top-notch, any information that the clans are able to find on us has been specifically planted by Maya-sama, thus I do not believe that it should be an issue. However, I believe the best course of action is to simply derive your information from a more publicly known source as opposed to Major Kazama." Honami continued, once again reminding the siblings of the power of the Yotsuba.

Chewing thoughtfully, the meal again continued in silence.

VVVVVV

A traditional wooden Torii stood before the three figures as the wind swirled in the air. Adjusting her bangs, Honami led the siblings into the temple on an uncommon weeknight excursion. Soon they were conversing with Kokonoe-Sensei about Blanche.

"It seems you have been busy," he smiled at the three of them. "I assume you are looking for the location of Blanche?"

"Yes, sensei, if its possible we would like to know the location of Blanche." Tatsuya intoned.

"In most cases, it would cost you, hmm… perhaps this could be settled with a 2 on 1 fight with me without magic?" His eyes glanced between Honami and Tatsuya as he smiled in anticipation.

Tatsuya looked toward Honami, who nodded, "That would be suitable for me as well. How about we settle this after Blanche has been cleaned up?"

VVVVVV

Dark oakwood doors stood majestically before her eyes. Polished brass knockers that served as handles adorned the doors which opened inward toward the master study and bed chamber of the mansion.

Despite the rest of the house being painted in light green, and being bathed in constant shades of warm lighting through massive floor-to-ceiling glass windows, this was the only room that was habitually darker. Blinds were drawn for the most part, and even the dark coloured doors were a change from the teak that the other doors in the house were constructed from.

Walking into her parents' private chambers always seemed daunting and more often than not, filled Mayumi with dread. Thinking back, this feeling only began filling her after she had begun high school, after her fall out with her father.

*Flashback*

"Otou-sama, you called for me?" Mayumi called through the large doors, doing her best to suppress her feelings. It had been a few weeks since… her graduation and separation from her friends in middle school. The face of a stoic young man flashed across her mind's eye, which she shook away, reiterating her vow to build a name for herself outside of the Saegusa. To remember the feelings of camaraderie and friendship her friends had given her.

"Come in, Mayumi." A firm voice came through the doors. Placing a genial smile on her face, Mayumi pushed open the heavy doors beyond. A green and gold carpet covered the smooth marble floor, reflecting the dim warm light that originated from the large crystal chandelier that hung from the ceiling. Three large armchairs invited guests to sit, while the expansive mahogany desk which faced them oozed a sense of authority. Multitudes of gold and silver trinkets littered the desk in an organised, but confusing fashion to those that were not privy to their uses. Although thin, Saegusa Koichi's ramrod straight posture, tinted glasses, and dark emerald suit gave off an air of importance reflecting his position as the head of one of the 10 Master Clans.

As she walked toward the armchairs, she contemplated her father's sudden request for her. Being the head of one of the 10 Master Clans, neither she nor her sisters often saw him, much less in a "formal" audience of sorts.

"Otou-sama," Mayumi bowed, "How may I be of assistance?"

Smiling gently, he gestured to a seat. "Mayumi, how are you?" his eyes began to study her body language as her mind flittered quickly.

'A loaded question, he knows doesn't he?' Mayumi quickly began to formulate a reply, to ensure it came out well thought of without seeming overly reluctant to answer.

"I have been busy preparing for the entrance ceremony to First High, after all, I will be giving a speech as the Freshman Representative." She delivered her response with a slight smile.

Nodding, he pressed on, not betraying his thoughts, "I see, it is after all expected of a Saegusa. You have done well, Mayumi, to beat out even the eldest son from the Juumonji. After all, the Saegusa have a reputation to upkeep, especially since you are the heir."

His words weighed heavily upon her shoulders, her eyebrow creasing just a bit momentarily. She nodded slowly, awaiting her father's explanation.

"Mayumi, it seems that I may have been a tad too… lenient with you through your time in middle school, it is time for you to behave more like… the heir." Her eyes widened, betraying her surprise and anticipation.

"You are to behave with more dignity, and to exercise more… discretion with those whom you may call friends and acquaintances." At this, Mayumi's thoughts began to stir violently in her head.

"Now that you are stepping into the society of magicians, you no longer have the luxury of pretending to be normal." He pushed his glasses up and leaned forward, looking at Mayumi intently. "You need to uphold the status of the 10 Master Clans."

Unbidden images of her first 2 years in middle school flit through her mind. The feelings came rushing back. Feelings of loneliness, isolation. The bile began to rise through her gut, almost forcing her to gag as she forced tears from welling in her eyes.

'Did all members of the 10 Master Clans have to be lonely?' She thought of the sight of Masaki Ichijou as he went about his rounds as the heir of the Ichijou clan during the annual Christmas celebration held by the Magic Association. A smile that barely reached his eyes plastered artificially upon his face as he went about greeting the other prominent members of the Magical society. Itsuwa(?) was no different. His eyes cold, smile artificial, they hardly seemed alive,

Anger welled up in her heart, and unbidden, Mayumi stood suddenly. A loud scraping could be heard echoing across the large room as her seat dragged across the pristine marble floor. Koichi's eyes followed his daughter, eyebrows raised just a tad higher than usual.

"Otou-sama, I apologise, but I believe that I cannot be the perfect Saegusa heir you want." Her voice reverberated loudly in the room, in stark contrast to the soft conversation that happened just moments before.

Mayumi took in a deep breath, her heart pounding. "I will ensure that I discharge my duties as an heir, but I will not be under any circumstances, forced to abandon, or ignore any of my fellow cohort mates regardless of their status in society."

Hands thud against the desk, "Mayumi, have you learnt nothing? We are above them, these normal citizens. Why do you so deem fit to interact with the rabble, and how are we supposed to lead them if we ever need to, when you behave so much like them?"

"It is those, 'rabble' that you speak of that truly accepted me Otou-sama. They knew who I was, yet they accepted me so wholeheartedly, made me feel part of society, made me feel human. Why do seem so set on having the 10 Master Clans be 'rulers' over the rest of magical society?" Mayumi pleaded, her hands clasped together as she half-sobbed.

"It is because we have a duty my dear daughter, a duty to discharge!" A hand slammed down on the desk, causing Mayumi to jump a little. She had never seen her father so irate. Yet, this cemented her intentions and beliefs.

As images of Leo's carefree smile, Honoka's interactions with the usually expressionless Shizuku, Miyuki's interactions with Tatsuya floated into her head, her tears flowed from her crimson eyes. "I vow, Otou-sama, to discharge my duties as an heir, but I will do so in my own way. No matter their standing, these citizens have much to give, for us to understand."

Her father stood rooted to the ground in disbelief, shaking his head in bitter disappointment. Mayumi's heart broke again. "Otou-sama, I know you had my friends investigated, so you know their background. I believe, and will stand my ground in being a leader from the ground up, because each individual has a story. Only by connecting with them, will I personally feel comfortable in leading them as a future leader of the 10 Master Clans."

Turning her head, she clasped her hand and exited the chamber with as much dignity as she could.

VVVVVV

Standing outside the door, Mayumi knew what she wanted to do. Steeling herself, she knocked on those brass handles, announcing herself. Stepping inside the chamber, Mayumi slowly made her way into the study, watching as her father scrutinised her being like a hawk.

"Otou-sama, I would like to report that there has been a disturbance on campus."

Silence reigned in the room as Koichi subtly indicated for her to continue.

"Blanche, through Egalite, has attacked the school with the intent of accessing the archives of the National Magic University. It seems as if the leader of Blanche may have used some form of Mental Interference magic to alter the memories of students on campus to gain their help. I am proposing -"

"Contact the authorities Mayumi, it is better if there were trained officials onboard." Koichi interjected monotonously.

"But this would implicate the students, even if they were simply pawns in the larger scheme!" Her voice rose higher as she reasoned with her father.

"No matter, it is still their fault for becoming involved."

Mayumi saw red. 'How could he, just treat Sayaka, as just another disposable tool? Sayaka was just a victim in this whole system!'

Steeling her features, she rose from her seat to the obvious displeasure of her father. "Otou-sama, I will be taking this into my own hands. As per our agreement, I will discharge my duties as an heir to the Saegusa Clan, but in my own way. The Saegusa name will not be sullied, but I will ensure that these innocent students are protected, as the leader of First High." Turning, she stalked away head held high for the umpteenth time since her entrance into high school.

VVVVVVV

Mayumi stood in front of her dresser and sighed. A white bundle rested atop her head as she sat down, slowly applying the various lotions and skincare products that maintained her perfect porcelain skin. Just as she was about to finish, a loud marching tune began to play from her mobile terminal, causing her to slip and squeeze far too much lotion onto her face.

Pouting at the waste of the lotion, Mayumi began to wash her hands in the sink before picking up the offending device.

"Mayumi, as agreed, we have found the location of Blanche. Will you be able to gather Juumonji senpai and the rest after school tomorrow?" She smiled as she read the mail. Tatsuya and Miyuki were as reliable as ever. 'That's just one of the many good things about him.' Her thoughts drifted to their caretaker, Honami.

"Sure, we will arrange to meet at the Council room. By the way, I haven't seen Honami for years, I trust she is doing well?"

Wrapping up her skincare routine, she took the white towel off her head and shook her luscious black hair, in preparation for bedtime.

Her terminal sounded again, albeit with a different tone. She opened her mail to reveal a photograph from Miyuki. Miyuki's face appeared in the foreground, with her bright smile, while Honami was hugging Tatsuya, half-forcing him to enter the frame. A bittersweet smile rose to her face, her eyes lingering too long on the boy that she had, and undoubtedly still cared for til today. His features had sharpened, and he had clearly grown. She missed the bright twinkle in his eyes that greeted her everytime they spoke. It seemed as if he was more cautious, guarded. Sighing, she decided to save the photograph and shelve her personal feelings for the time being. For now, she would just appreciate the reliability of her two precious kouhai.

VVVVVV

(Miyuki POV)

Just moments after the bell rang, a loud commotion could be heard from outside her classroom. I continued to place my items within my bag while curiously looking toward the corridor. Leo and Erika's voice began to permeate the quiet surroundings, their typical bickering bringing a smile to my face.

"Hey you two, class may be over, but do keep it down!" The voice of 1B's instructor could be heard, before the "Sumimasen, sensei" from Erika and Leo echoed through the corridor. I chuckled and closed my bag. Onii-sama came into view shaking his head exasperatedly, Erika and Leo bickered, albeit at a lower volume.

"I told you you could take a bite, not half the damn sandwich!" Erika pointed at Leo who simply shrugged.

"I took a bite alright, not 2 but just 1."

"You ate the whole damn thing you idiot! That was a huge bite you moron!"

I bowed apologetically toward my instructor who was leaving, while Morisaki and several other 1A students glared daggers at the course 2 students who humiliated them within the first week of school. Feeling the eyes on them, Erika and Leo looked into the class and returned the hostilities.

"You two, quit flirting with one another so openly, it makes others uncomfortable." Shizuku deadpanned as she stepped out of class much to the embarrassment of Leo and Erika.

"Apologies Honoka, Shizuku, but Miyuki, Erika and Leo have a meeting to attend, perhaps we could catch you tomorrow after school for tea?"

Honoka sighed disappointedly while Shizuku shrugged and gave a small smile that was hardly visible unless you were looking for it. "We got it, take care you guys."

With that, we walked together toward the Council room.

VVVVVV

Today's news flitted in and out of Mayumi's vision, as she scrolled through the news at a practiced pace - slow enough that she could pass off as reading the news, while eagerly hopping from one article to the next. Her eyes were glazed, clearly not paying attention and anticipating the news from Tatsuya and Miyuki. Mari stood behind, gazing out the window, clearly not even attempting to hide her impatience as her foot tapped the floor rapidly. Katsuto on the other hand gave off an air of nonchalance as he sat at the seat normally occupied by Hattori, his arms folded as his eyes remained closed. Even then, there were tells that he was impatient as his shoulders seemed just a slight bit tenser than usual.

Sounds of knocking disrupted the silence in the room. "Good Evening Senpais, this is Shiba Miyuki with the rest. Do excuse our intrusion!" Mayumi could almost see Miyuki bowing.

Tatsuya Miyuki Erika and Leo walked in. Erika and Leo's eyes wandered the new space while Miyuki and Tatsuya simply strode toward the empty seats in the room, while leaving the seat on Mayumi's left empty for Mari to occupy.

"Shiba, I hear you have news for us?" Katsuto's baritone voice filled the space.

Nodding, Tatsuya began by pulling up the inbuilt terminal and projecting a map on the shared screen. "It seems as if Blanche is operating within this particular warehouse. Based on existing layouts available online, it seems like these are the possible layouts for the venue."

Multiple layouts began to overlay themselves on the model that appeared on the screen. "Regardless, the common features between these diagrams are the presence of only a single story with an unusually high ceiling, and 2 entrances or exits."

Pausing, Tatsuya sweeped the room before his eyes landed upon Mayumi. "President, I assume you will joining me to act against Blanche?"

Mayumi's expression tightened as she recalled her conversation with her father yesterday. She nodded and looked toward Katsuto. "Juumonji-kun, will you be assisting us in this operation?"

"It is the duty of the 10 Master Clans, and as a leader of First High, we shall protect the school and the society."

VVVVVVV

It was an odd sight to see a military grade humvee stood parked in the school's parking lot. Katsuto led the small coalition toward the forest green vehicle. Tatsuya opened the front seat and gestured for Mayumi to enter the shotgun position as the leader while Katsuto casually climbed the 75cm high step to reach the driver's seat. As Mayumi looked at the step that was practically half her height, Tatsuya coughed, offering his hand as a support for Mayumi who flushed red. Pouting, she reached out to hold his calloused hand, looking downward as she abashedly climbed the step.

Tatsuya smiled apologetically to his sister who was already in the backseat of the vehicle. Leo and Erika had been convinced to stay at the school with Mari to serve as backup in case any trouble happened to crop up at the school.

Reaching the site, Tatsuya activated his elemental sight, surveying the warehouse. There were a total of 35 men within the warehouse, 34 of whom were armed with some kind of firearm, with a sole male holding a simple tablet like CAD in the centre. Both entrances were well defended thus it did not really matter which side they chose to enter the warehouse from.

"Shiba, this was your idea. How do you plan to proceed?"

"MIyuki and I will enter from this entrance, while yourself and President could hold the fort at the other entrance, taking it as an ambush if you will. After all, the famed Juumonji Phalanx would be highly beneficial in this situation."

Nodding, Katsuto walked toward Mayumi, who held a concerned look on her face. Tatsuya and Miyuki simply smiled at her, reassuring her that it would be alright.

VVVVVV

(Mayumi POV)

I clutched my bracelet CAD tightly as the Shiba siblings walked toward the other entrance. 'No matter how I look at it, I really can't bear to see them put their lives on the line.' Mayumi's thoughts raged within her mind, her heart thumping quickly. Despite being highly trained in the 'dos and don'ts' of magic, only very few of the 10 Master Clan members actually saw combat.

She thought about Katsuto, the de facto head of the Juumonji clan in the place of his ailing father - how was he so calm in the face of this? How could he feel so comfortable sending the Shiba siblings in, while we waited for them to produce results"

'Am I not giving them enough credit? Or am I truly so different from the other members of the 10 Master Clans?' Mayumi thought as they both primed their CADs, ready for action.

After what seemed like an eternity, should and screams could be heard from the building. She tensed, moving into a fighting stance, her ears aching to hear more. Counting down in seconds, it seemed as if a minute had elapsed before gunfire erupted from the building.

All rational thoughts flew out of her head, as Mayumi half-ran toward the entrance, ignoring Katsuto's calls. Her heartbeat hammered in her ears as she opened the door slowly, adrenaline pumping through her veins.

Activating multiscope, she saw a group of 6 men pointing their weapons at the door. A stream of dry ice pellets blasted through their bodies from behind as screams emanated from their mouths. Not caring about the carnage she had just wrought upon the men, she stepped across the bodies sprawled on the floor while maintaining multiscope. Peeking into the next room, another group of 7 men held their weapons toward both Miyuki and Tatsuya.

Her magic wavered the closer she got, as the men pointed rings, antinite rings toward the Shiba siblings. Her head spun and her breath hitched, as Tatsuya raised a single CAD. White light emitted from his CAD, blood spattering on the floor. Less than a few seconds later, the carnage was complete, with a sole man cowering before Tatsuya.

"H-h-how? You d-de-demon!" Turning tail, he ran, right into the path of Mayumi who activated Dry Meteor, knocking him out cold.

VVVVVV

Mayumi worked on autopilot thereafter, calling in favours alongside Katsuto to clean up the brutal onslaught. Realising that it was probably a deliberate decision for Tatsuya to keep both herself and Katsuto outside the building, she refrained from asking Tatsuya about his abilities after their exit from the warehouse.

That night, Mayumi lay in bed, her eyes wide open contemplating the day's activities. Although she found some form of closure for Sayaka, she had seemingly opened a pandora's box. Just who were the Shiba siblings?

"I do not want to lie to you," Tatsuya's line to her stood out as she continuously wondered about the siblings that she had known since middle school. Was this linked to their sudden disappearance after middle school? Her chest constricted as those old feelings rose in her chest again. She could not make heads or tails of it, but all she knew was that she wasn't about to inform her father.