The hidden Head - Chapter 6 - Back to school
A few hours later/Class 1-C classroom/Minami POV
Minami let out an exhausted sigh. Despite the overall gloomy atmosphere caused by the recent events, her classmates were still overly excited about her return to school. Unfortunately for Minami, this enthusiasm stemmed from their curiosity about the biological attack recently.
While some people may have enjoyed such attention from their classmates, Minami certainly did not. Guardians were not supposed to receive much attention. Of course, they were trained to draw attention if needed. Sometimes they even had to look suspicious. After all someone who always looks unsuspicious would appear suspicious to the intelligence agencies. Still, Minami was shy.
So when her classmates surrounded her when she arrived, Minami quickly told them the prepared cover story. Some of her classmates looked like they were about to vomit when she described her "disease" in more graphical details. Frankly, she felt the same way when she read the medical report of the used virus. Still, duty was duty and Minami preferred reading these reports rather then having the images directly etched into her brain. And yes, the Yotsuba were ready to go to such length for their cover stories.
She wanted to avoid another of these interrogations by her classmates, which, although harmless compared to her training both in conducting and withstanding interrogations, were rather stressful for her. So when the bell signaling the end of the lesson sounded, Minami quickly stood up and headed for the door.
"Minami-nee!" the voice of two people could be heard from the door when Minami opened it.
Even tough Minami already expected the transfer of reinforcements to First High and the changes to her room reminded her of this, she expected their introduction to be done outside of school.
"So this is your classroom, Minami-nee?" One of them, a girl, asked cheerfully.
But this was not what drew Minami's attention.
"Yes. Although I did not expect the two of you to visit this abruptly." This was certainly true, albeit the content of their conversation did not really matter at the moment. Instead Minami was focused on her gestures. For an outsider, they may look like the normal hand movements most people do while talking, but it was actually a way for guardians to communicate secretly. Even most Yotsuba did not know about this.
Cousins, Minami read. She did not require any proof that these two were indeed Yotsuba guardians. For one, it was plainly obvious that they were Sakura-series guardians. In addition, Minami was fairly sure that she had never seen those two at First High before, which must mean that they just recently transfered in. And right now, the Yotsuba would be monitoring the school closely.
Minami turned to her classmates who were observing the situation.
"Err... the two are my cousins, who just transfered here. You two, why don't you introduce yourselves?"
"Of course!", the girl said, "My name is Sakurai Asahi and my shy brother here is Sakurai Kairi."
"I am not shy! You just talk so fast that I am unable to say a word." the boy named Kairi retorted.
"Of course, of course." Asahi laughed. "Anyway, we are Minami-nee's cousins. Like Minami-nee said, we just transferred here due to the terrorist strikes. Our parents believe we are safer here. This may sound weird at first, but they believe that the terrorists will have a hard time attacking here. The government is unlikely to allow another attack in the capital. By the way, I am the older twin." The last part was exclaimed happily.
"Maybe by a few seconds, but you still behave like a small child!" Kairi retorted once again.
They are good at lying Minami thought. The few classmates who were skeptical about her introduction were easily distracted when they steered the conversation to sibling quarrel. The part about being the older twin was obviously a lie for her. Sakurai-series could not be twins. They were more likely part of the same batch produced by the 4th Research Institute.
"If you are cousin's of Minami, you must also be cousins of the Student Council President! Do you two know her well?" One of Minami's classmates asked.
"We know them, but not well. We are distantly related to them, but not as much as to Minami. Still, we sometimes played together when we were younger."
Minami noticed the hesitation before their answer. While they likely expected such questions, it would normally still be unthinkable that a mere guardian would claim being related to the great head of the Yotsuba family. The guardians respected the Yotsuba, especially their head. No, respect may not be the right word. They deify them. The Yotsuba gave them their life and, if the wanted to, could take it easily from them. But the Yotsuba rarely did so. Instead, they trained, educated and raised them, albeit en masse. For the Yotsuba, most of them were mere servants and bodyguards, but some of them were like family members for them. But for the Guardians, the Yotsuba were everything. Even Minami was jealous of Tsutsumi Kotona, a guardian who became fiancee of a Yotsuba. Claiming to be kin to the head would normally have earned them severe contempt by their fellow guardians.
"Anyway, Asahi, Kairi, why don't we go to the cafeteria and eat something?" Minami wanted to leave quickly.
After School/Student Council Room
In first high, the student council as well as the siblings' circle of friends sat together.
Just like Minami, they had to "share their perspective" of the recent terrorist strike. Unlike class 1-C, their friends abstained from requesting more details.
"Still, wasn't this dangerous? You could have died, Tatsuya-san!" Honoka asked frightened.
"Honoka, even if the terrorists would have used a lethal virus we would be fine. You have seen my magic in Yokohama, haven't you?" Tatsuya tried to calm her.
"By the way, have you seen the new transfer students? They are actually distant cousins of us." Miyuki tried to steer the conversation away from the virus while simultaneously trying to introduce the new guardians. Both of the siblings had received a message from Minami and had decided to prepare their friends for the introduction of their new cousins. Meanwhile Minami and the "twins" would return home. The twins, being guardians on their first day of their new position, did protest. After reminding them of Tatsuya's strength however, the two of them complied.
"Really? How many cousins do you have?" Mikihiko asked surprised. He had actually noticed Miyuki's attempt to change topics, but believed she simply wanted to talk about something less disgusting.
"A few actually. You head about the early attempts by the government to increase the number of magicians, I assume?" This was actually something that they have learned in the 1st year. Most "normal" magic families stem from this initiative. In essence, families with high magic potential outside of the research institutes were encouraged to have many children. It was not rare for multiple generations in a row to have six or more children. This policy only changed after a public outcry, which also abolished the laws that magicians had to have children. Still, the social pressure remained.
"Ah, I see. Sorry for asking."
"Do not fret about it. You probably did not know this due to being from an ancient family. Hey, Izumi-chan how many more documents do we have to process?" Miyuki asked in an exhausted tone after Izumi put down another stack of paper in front of her.
"These should be the last ones. Is something wrong Miyuki-senpai? You look worn out." Izumi gazed worriedly at Miyuki.
"Yes, I am indeed a bit exhausted, but its nothing you have to worry about, Izumi-chan."
"Really? Is there something I can help you with?" Izumi was really enthusiastic about a chance to help Miyuki.
"No Izumi-chan. You see, my Aunt is recently deceased and I inherited the family business -"
shatter
Erika had dropped her glass and looked at Miyuki with a terrified expression.
"Everything OK, Erika?" Mikihiko asked. "You look horrified."
"N-No... It's OK Miki, I was just shocked and dropped my glass, which is unbecoming of a swordsman like me. Just imagine if I had actually dropped my sword."
"Anyway," Miyuki continued, "I have to fill in lots of paperwork and had to stay up late. Add to this the virus attack and I may be a bit overworked right now. But this is nothing you have to worry about, Izumi-chan."
"Really? Maybe my father could help you out?" Shizuku offered. Her Father was an industry magnate and would happily help a few friends out, but -
"Shizuku, you should not involve yourself in their family business. Sooner or later they will have to handle this on their own and its better if they learn it sooner. Besides, I have a rough idea what their family business is and it's better for everyone here if you do not involve yourself further with it." Erika shot the idea down.
"What? Are they like Mafia bosses or so?" Leo asked amusedly.
His answer as a sharp glare from Erika.
"Hey, you know this was a joke. If that would actually be the case, you, a Chiba, would not be friends with them, would you?"
Hearing this, Miyuki was briefly worried. But since Erika seems to know about her being a Yotsuba and was still friends with her, her worries were eased.
"Errm... Miyuki-senpai, if you are exhausted, how about you take a break? Actually, my father invited both of you to our mansion. He wants to apologize for being unable to prevent the recent attacks. I am sure our servants could help you relax." Izumi reentered the conversation.
Miyuki thought a bit before accepting the invitation. "Sure. I always wanted to see the mansion of one of the master clans."
Unknown to Izumi, Miyuki did not actually see this as a way to relax. She knew that Saegusa Kouichi must suspect their affiliation with the Yotsuba or even knows about them being family members. Still, it was better if they talked with him rather than let the Saegusa reveal their identities.
"Great! I'll send you the details then."
Two hours later/Shiba Residence/Miyuki POV
"Welcome home, Toushu-sama, Shiba-sama!" Miyuki and Tatsuya were greeted by an enthusiastic shout when they opened the Door.
These two must be the additional guardians Minami told us about. They look just like Minami. And Honami. A sad feeling overcame Miyuki when she thought about her mother's late guardian. I hope I can convince them to drop the "Toushu-sama"...
"You two must be Asahi-san and Kairi-san. You don't have to bow before us. Minami has already informed us about your arrival." Miyuki disliked their excessive respect. "Also, please call us Miyuki and Tatsuya. I feels uncomfortable being called Toushu-sama."
"But Toushu-sama, it is unbefitting for servants like us to call you by first name!" Asahi protested.
"If you were to call Miyuki Toushu-sama, someone may ask questions. You can never know who may be eavesdropping on us." Tatsuya responded while thinking of First-Lieutenant Fujibayashi, the famous Electron sorceress. As of know, the 101 IMEB should not be aware of Miyuki's new status, but if these two would continue calling them like this, they would soon find out. He only hoped that the Yotsuba reinforced the residence's cyber defense even further. Not that it would help for an extended period of time against Fujibayashi.
"Understood. Our sincerest apologies, Tatsuya-sama." Kairi answered instead of his "sister", who seemed unable to respond. "We were sent here both for your protection as well as ensuring your well-being. Asahi-san will assist Minami-dono with the household..." He gestured towards Asahi. Miyuki frowned. She had waged a quite war with Minami about this. Still, she had to admit that she no longer had the time to participate with the household chores, as much as it pained her. "... and I will assist you with the paperwork. Hayama-dono will stay at the main residence and manage the family's everyday business from there."
Hearing the mention of Hayama, Minami chose this moment to inform the pair of a recent message. "Miyuki-sama, Tatsuya-sama, Hayama-dono actually requested you to call him soon. Apparently it is related to your new duties."
30 minutes later/Living Room/Miyuki POV
Immediately after Miyuki entered the last digit of Hayama's phone number, the room went dark. The glass became opaque and quite buzzing filled the room as the hidden computers began encrypting the connection while simultaneously sending fake data to several dummies. The Yotsuba's communication security was always top notch, but was even further reinforced after the recent events.
After a few seconds, Hayama could be seen on the screen.
"Greetings, milady. I hope you did not encounter any problems at school?" Hayama bowed for his greetings.
"No, Hayama-san. Thank you for ensuring the smooth resumption of our studies."
"It is my duty to support you to my utmost abilities, milady."
"So, Hayama-san, why did you want us to call you?" Miyuki asked expectantly.
"Milady, have you ever heard the name 'Toudou Aoba?'."
"No." Miyuki answered truthfully. "What about him?"
"His Excellency Toudou Aoba is an important sponsor of the Yotsuba and one of the previous owners of the Fourth Research Institute. The partnership between him and the Yotsuba is rather deep and important for everyone involved." explained Hayama.
"I understand. Since this my first time hearing this, I assume this relation is a secret?"
"Yes and no. It is certainly not something an outsider should know, but a few of the branch family heads are aware of his Excellency and our business with him. Anyway, " Hayama continued, "he requested a meeting with you. Knowing that the Yotsuba can hardly decline, he already chose time and location for the meeting."
Miyuki was surprised by this. We have never met before, how could he be so sure I would accept? Well, Hayama-san is referring to him as 'his Excellency', so he must be really important...
"Of course. Where and when?" Tatsuya accepted on behalf of Miyuki, who was still lost in thoughts.
"Today at 18:00 at the Kyuuchou Temple. I apologize for this sudden appointment, but he is rather important to the Yotsuba."
Both Miyuki and Tatsuya were surprised by the location. While the temple was certainly a secure location, they had not expected Kokonoe to be involved in this.
"No problem. Then I guess we better get ready soon."
17:45/Kyuuchou Temple
Miyku, Tatsuya and Minami stood in front of the Kyuuchou temple. They still had fifteen minutes before the appointed time and were looking for Kokonoe-sensei. They were a bit earlier than necessary because they believed Kokonoe to have one if his usual 'surprise spars' with Tatsuya.
Surprisingly, this did not occur. The court of the temple was empty. It was, however, not abandoned. Looking around with elemental sight, Tatsuya could spot a single human inside one of the rooms. Around the temple, several disciples where protecting the temple. And a few meters behind himself...
Tatsuya spun around.
"Hello, Tatsuya-kun." His teacher stood there.
How? It is nearly impossible to sneak up to me. Was he holding back in our spars? This was one of the few times where Tatsuya was actually surprised.
"His Excellency is awaiting you inside, but you probably already know this, don't you, Tatsuya-kun?"
The three of them followed Kokonoe. After a few minutes, they arrived at a door near the center of the temple.
"He is waiting inside. Here, our ways must part for now, as I am not allowed to participate in this conversation." He turned around and left.
Opening the door, they were greeted by an old man with big round eyes and thick eyebrows sitting on a table. His gaze drifted over the group. When his cloudy left eye looked at Minami, she nearly grabbed her CAD due to the pressure she felt.
"There is no need for caution, Sakurai Minami. I held countless such meetings with the previous heads and I intend on continuing our cooperation. Now sit down," he gestured to the seats before him, "I had Kokonoe make his disciples prepare some food for us. It is not as fine and qualitative as I am accustomed to, but this place provides us with the necessary security. Still, I hope that our next meeting will be in a more... fine location."
"There is no problem with this location.", Miyuki said while sitting down, "Both me and my bro- err, fiancee are often visiting this temple."
"I know. My connections are rather extensive. Let's start with the meal, we can talk while eating" Toudou took a chicken leg from the table. Miyuki, Tatsuya and Minami also began eating.
"First of all, let me congratulate you for becoming the new head of the Yotsuba. You may be young, but I am sure you can live up to the expectations of your family, especially with you fiancee by your side." Toudou Aoba was aware of Miyuki's and Tatsuya's actual background, but he did not care. He had faith in the Fourth Research Institute he once owned and believed Maya when she told him that there would be no complications.
"I feel honored by your praise, your Excellency." Hayama had informed Miyuki and Tatsuya about Toudou Aoba's importance for the Yotsuba and some of the details, so Miyuki made sure to show the appropriate respect to him.
"Although the circumstances of your inheritance are tragic, you handled it well for now. Speaking of which, you sure are making a show in Brazil." He gazed at Tatsuya, clearly hinting at the SCM strikes.
"We are sorry if this may have damaged your business, but we believe this to be necessary for our family." Tatsuya responded for Miyuki.
"There are no problems with your actions. The economic damage I personally suffered is negligible and your performance actually fit well with my plans. Truth to be told, I believe Japan needs a deterrence against foreign invaders. And if the simultaneously destruction of 36 strategic targets on the other side of the world is not a deterrence, then I do not know what would qualify as one. According to my sources, most governments now recognize the danger of attacking Japan and will think twice before trying another invasion. That being said, they will try even harder to find and kill you, Shiba Tatsuya. Countless Countries are already planning on infiltrating Japan. Nothing I believe the Yotsuba could not handle." Miyuki understood the implications. The Yotsuba would have to take care of them. Still, this was the same work the normally do. "Of course, I'll pay you for the troubles. Are 1000 cushions enough?"
Miyuki did not know what cushions referred too, so she looked at her brother, who nodded towards her.
"Yes." she answered.
"We will also have to ensure that the general public will not link your actions to Japan. I already have a plan, but the Yotsuba need to execute it."
Miyuki and Tatsuya listened to his plan, before accepting it. They spent the rest of the evening discussing business and reaffirming old agreements.
When they returned home, they quickly informed Hayama of the plan, who immediately began the preparations.
Author's note:
Hello everyone, it's been a while. At the time of writing this chapter it is already February. I certainly did not plan such a long delay, but here we are.
First it took me two months to settle on the names of the "twins", then I wasted another month trying to learn about the japanese school system and breaks before giving up and changing the story. This coupled with attending university caused this delay.
Like last time, I plan on writing multiple chapters before uploading this one, but it will likely be less than in part 1. How do some people manage to write fanfics with more than a million words? Maybe its easier for them due to a better understanding of the english language, but who knows?
I tried to implement some of the suggestions you made. Speech is no longer italic and I made some minor grammatical improvements. However, there is not much I can do about most grammatical mistakes simply because I am unaware of my own mistakes.
As expected, many reviews criticized Maya's death and suggested some alternatives. I feel like some of them are more "realistic", but would not have the same implications. I actually wrote an entire one-shot about possible scenarios for Maya's death, but I fear uploading it may make me appear to be a psychopath. I just hope that people do not already think this about me after reading the Yotsuba's revenge against Brazil.
As you can see, I settled for the twins to be a boy and a girl. Many suggestions were made for both sides, but I believe that I can create more interesting situations with a boy and a girl. By the way, I originally planned for the twins to be called Akira and Yoru and only realized a few days ago that Yoru is our favorite Ayako's nickname...
I am honestly not sure when to do the great "reveal" about their identities. On one hand, this fanfic is supposed to be about Miyuki being hidden. On the other hand, I absolutely love reveals, especially if it is something the reader has known for a while but the other characters not. This is one of the reasons why Vol17 is one of my favorite arcs.
!Spoiler for later parts of the novel!
This is also why I am so disappointed in the "Taurus Silver" reveal. I hoped it would be more like vol17.
Spoiler end
I am not sure I managed the interactions with Toudou correctly. I fear that I wrote him a bit too casual, but I am not sure how to change this.
Anyway, why are so many of you following me (the author)? I never really understood why someone would follow an author on fanfiction. There is no guarantee that my next work (if there is one) will be another one about mahouka. While I am planning some (One shipping Tatsuya with Ayako, maybe my own variation of good, but seemingly abandoned fanfics, a mass-effect X-over), there are also other novels (like toaru) which I am interested in.
Well, I am not criticizing you for this, I am merely curious.
Anyway, thanks for reading.
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