The stoat stood by the road with a small briefcase made of dense gray fabric, rubberized at the edges and ends. The sight of the small white animal in an expensive-looking beige suit, emotionally engaged in a phone conversation, didn't invite conversation. Or even just asking for the time. He was clearly irritated. Nevertheless, a dark purple sports car with narrow headlights stopped right in front of him.

"I'll call you back," the stoat said into the receiver and pocketed the phone. "Louis-san! What a pleasant time to get out of town."

"Good day, Kamanori-san. Ready to see the strangest animal in your life?"

"Don't dramatize. Although from what you said, one could imagine… anything," Malchasin, the director, smirked as he climbed into the car. It immediately sped off.

Today, Louis dressed more modestly - a university knit vest over a shirt, simple trousers. And only the car remained the same, powerful and even slightly flashy. The deer didn't intend to impress the director or, if it came to that, the committee, but reasonably thought that he sometimes rode a "kusari" to school. Not the kind of secret that needed to be kept.

After yesterday's shootout, Agata went to the old mansion to prepare for an outing - or rather, for jumping into the darkness - Louis didn't want to throw the lion into the fray right away. In the evening, Legoshi cheered him up by calling and saying that Sisu would be lurking near the port of Hiroyuki tomorrow. She wouldn't recognize the pier number from the water, of course, but Louis had a flare gun for that purpose.

Oh well.

His friend didn't disappoint, as usual.

Although Louis still found it strange to say the word "friend" even mentally. "Friends," "love," and other emotional attachments hadn't figured in his life until recently. However, now he was attached to some of the familiar animals like never before.

And, strangely enough "Louis liked it.

"Nice car. How much does one like this cost nowadays?"

"Brand new - six to seven million yen, depending on the options. But you can pay in installments."

"I didn't hesitate to look you up. I don't think you needed installments, did you?"

"Looking up…" Louis shook his head. "I was starting to think my persona in the news had become passé."

"Don't forget, I'm not local, firstly, and secondly, I don't really watch TV," the stoat shrugged. "But, forgive my curiosity - why the school?"

"I could direct major productions, but I need experience. And since I myself studied at Cherryton Academy, I thought - perhaps it's worth starting with something small. So we reopened the drama club."

Malchasin continued his thought: "Which was closed due to…?"

"Last year's incident. A student was eaten, also a member of the club."

"My condolences. I didn't know "I thought it was budget cuts or something like that. Although I definitely heard about that case."

"No problem. How do you find Cherryton, Kamanori-san?"

"A charming place," the director smiled. "It doesn't even half match the reputation that was blown up about it in the media. I thought, maybe it's even worth opening a park for new clubs. Baseball, for example, or a circle of classical art. But for now… I'm stuck in organization. And with your dragon, even if she passes the committee, there will be plenty of trouble."

"I understand," Louis nodded. "Just like me. Imagine all those crowds of students besieging the club."

"Yeah…"

"But honestly, I don't think the world needs protecting from Sisudat. Rather, it from her."

Malchasin raised an eyebrow: "Is she that peaceful?"

"Let's say "she might not realize her own size among fragile objects at first, but she'll apologize for it for a long time. And why speculate, Kamanori-san? You'll see for yourself soon."

The director chuckled, reaching for his jacket pocket: "I just don't like surprises and try to be prepared for everything. Can I smoke out the window? In such cars, you either want to hold a cigarette or a glass of whiskey."

"Or a helmet, just in case," the deer chuckled. "Smoke away, if I may say so. I'm a smoker myself."

"Hope you're not setting a bad example for the students?"

"I try to restrain myself in the club. And sometimes, the thought doesn't even cross my mind."

"Regarding the club, again… when do you plan to hold… what's it called?"

"The premiere?"

"Yes, exactly."

"I think closer to graduation or right after it."

Malchasin nodded, then looked out the window at the passing trees.

"What I mean is… will having this Sisudatu interfere with the drama club's work?"

"I don't think so," the deer shook his head. "I wouldn't have invited her if I wasn't confident in the students. Besides, the club president and a couple of old members have already been informed."

"I see."

I wonder what thoughts are swirling in the fox's head right now? And how quickly will they change at the sight of Sisu?

Louis smirked at the corner of his mouth. It wasn't worth guessing in advance, but the dragoness knew how to… ingratiate herself. The same sad fate awaited the committee. Most likely.

Hiroyuki would have been a suburb of Cherryton, authorities permitted including it in the city's charming architectural ensemble. But in their reality, the port was somewhat grimy and primarily a commercial center. Many warehouses of major companies stood here, from which logistics led further into the country, customs control centers, hotels, snack bars, and a few entertainment centers. Overall, the port lacked the urban coziness that Cherryton possessed, but its inhabitants staunchly stood for acknowledging Hiroyuki as at least picturesque if not directly beautiful.

The title of a cute town was also contested by the rows of cypresses and sakura trees planted along a couple of alleys, meticulously cared for and fenced off. However, the fence only worsened the view, creating the impression that the plants had violated some port rule and were taken into custody.

They drove towards the heart of the town - the port with numerous long piers, warehouses, and even a small yacht club a bit to the north.

"It's almost noon."

"We're on time," Louis said, turning towards the fenced pier numbered 12. Not a single ship, only a few containers and an old truck with deflated tires standing farther away. There was bustle on the pier - a sedan of one of the "government" models, inconspicuous but reliable, a large-sized police SUV, and several officers fully armed. All of them were of large build - an elephant, a lion, and a bull. The deer snorted. Their physique wouldn't save them if Sisu turned aggressive. But as for weapons… one of them even had a short rifle slung over his shoulder.

"I see they're prepared. And what about the bus on the left side of the pier?" Malchasin asked, pointing at the long vehicle.

They indeed passed a glossy black bus, resembling both a tourist camper and a railroad locomotive.

"I hired it just in case everything goes smoothly. Such buses are usually ordered by music groups for rock tours. I think it'll suit her too."

"Everything is well thought out with you," the stoat chuckled. Louis returned the compliment: "You don't seem to be a frivolous creature either, Kamanori-san."

"Otherwise, I wouldn't have gotten this position. Although I still wonder what special talents an ordinary desk clerk could have."

"What were you doing?"

"Shuffling papers from one place to another," he laughed. "Better not to call it anything else."

Louis stopped the car. He touched the prosthetic below his knee. Slowly inhaling deeply, he exhaled sharply, saying, "Well… here we go."

And he stepped out, grabbing the black plastic suitcase from under the seat and slamming the door.

The committee waiting for them also exited the car. Louis couldn't blame them for being secretive - today the sun was shining brightly and warmly, which in a way added points to their ward. At least if she didn't decide to show off her rank.

A ram, a slender leopard, and a giraffe. Also a diverse company, although two herbivores… Hope they won't be afraid of Sisu's fangs.

However, for her size, the dragoness's teeth weren't too large.

The deer approached them and extended his hand, introducing himself:

"Louis. Pleasure to meet you."

"Tibo," the ram named himself, lightly shaking his hand. The other two merely nodded:

"Iga Atashiro."

"Gaskin. You didn't mention you wouldn't be alone."

The stoat politely bowed:

"Malchasin Kamanori, director of Cherryton Academy. I'm also somewhat involved."

"Alright," Tibo nodded, apparently the head of the committee. He pointed to the police officers observing them:

"This is a team under the command of Captain Kirk in case something goes wrong."

"I don't think that'll happen," Louis reassured him. Tibo glanced at him sideways:

"Nevertheless, formalities must be observed. Iga, set up the camera, please. Louis, you need to sign here and here. The first is to confirm you don't object to the video recording process, the second is to accept full responsibility for any unforeseen situations during the migration examination."

He inwardly sighed – how he didn't miss working with documents – and Louis obediently placed both signatures after quickly scanning the lines. Tibo turned to the giraffe:

"Ready?"

"Yes, Tibo-san," he replied, showing a thumbs-up.

"So, the extraordinary meeting number sixteen of the migration committee on the twenty-fourth of April of this year…" the bureaucrat quickly ran through the standard formulation.

"Why extraordinary?" the director whispered. Louis shrugged:

"Probably because the migrant is potentially dangerous."

"Is she here somewhere, or do you have a signal, Louis?"

"A signal. Even a whole flare gun," the deer grinned and placed the suitcase on the car's hood, breaking the seals. The police officers tensed, but upon seeing the thick flare with emergency alert means, relaxed and continued chatting about something of their own. Louis raised the pistol upwards and pressed the trigger, the raspberry-colored rocket soared upwards, unpleasantly squeaking.

Now the main thing was for Sisu not to mistake the piers…

Or the city.

Although, okay, if she confuses the piers, she'll be able to swim here from any of them in a couple of seconds, judging by Pina's assurances.

He nervously scratched the back of his hand, trying to maintain calm and composure. But the reason for the founding of their order didn't fail, just like Legoshi did before.

Slicing through the waves, the lean, serpent-like body swiftly swam towards them. Despite the speed, Tibo remained calm, but his leopard colleague noticeably fidgeted, twitching his tail. Unable to hold back, Gaskin spoke up:

"Is she… always this swift?"

"In the water – yes. On land, Sisu's speed decreases slightly," Louis informed. The police officers didn't stop talking, but positioned themselves more comfortably. Not raising their weapons, of course.

And finally, the wet, fantastical creature emerged and vigorously shook herself off to the side from them. Sisu, smiling broadly, waved her paw:

"Hi, Louis! Are these the respected animals you told me about?"

"They are indeed," the deer chuckled.

Sisu, please, don't overdo it… don't turn everything into a farce.

"Well then… I'm ready. Nice to see everyone and I hope for your generosity," she said, dignifiedly tilting her head.

"Holy shit," Gaskin muttered almost inaudibly. Tibo stepped forward, checking his electronic tablet:

"We're very glad you've mastered the land so well. It'll solve many problems in the future… So… your name is Sisudat, correct?"

"Yes. You can just call me Sisu. I insist."

As they discussed in detail what would happen, the deer carefully instructed her on how to respond better. Don't say anything unnecessary. Don't worry. Don't attempt physical contact with the committee – bureaucrats usually don't like being squeezed by a huge wet dragon.

"To which biological species do you belong?"

"Aquatic dragon."

"How old are you?"

"Twenty-three."

Formally, Sisu was twenty-three years old – at least, if you didn't consider the five centuries of magical coma. Although she sometimes acted like fourteen, and sometimes – even five.

"Off the record question: have you ever heard of creatures called 'kirin'?" the ram raised his eyes to her. Sisu smiled:

"You're not the first to ask that question. But before I met the land dwellers – no, never."

"Alright. What is your diet like?"

"Excuse me?"

"Are you a carnivore or herbivore, Sisudatu?"

"More of a fruitivore and sweet-tooth."

"But… have you ever tasted meat?"

Here she would have to lie. Explanations of the details would only put them on edge, so to such a question – and they would definitely ask it – you should answer "no".

"No."

"Understood. Where are you from?"

"From the ocean. More precisely, from a small island. But I haven't met any other inhabitants there."

"That explains something. What drew you to the land?"

Sisu smiled dreamily:

"Creativity. Your movies, your music, but most of all – theatrical art. And food. But if I were to eat everything I want, I'd turn into a whale by the end of the year."

"Undoubtedly," the ram smirked dryly. "You have to watch your figure. Even for such slender as yours."

Louis mentally chuckled and marked a notch in the "dragon charm" column. One down.

"Excuse me, Tibo-san, I have a question regarding immigration law. Sisudatu, do you believe you could pose a danger to terrestrial beings?"

The dragoness pondered. Pengu always told her to be careful with people, and after all, the foreign world was inhabited by many creatures, including those much smaller in size. Finally, she nodded:

"Yes."

"What is this threat?" Iga continued, remaining invisible to the camera.

"The difference in sizes," Sisu sighed. "I could accidentally harm someone, but it would still be bad, even by an accident."

"Glad to see such awareness," the ram said, exchanging glances with his colleagues, "however, I must inform you that, while on land, you must comply with all our laws without exception."

"Understood."

"Let's continue…"

The questionnaire took a long time, including even such strange questions as "favorite color" and "number of previous offenses," which sounded meaningless in relation to aquatic creatures. Perhaps she would have been trusted to fill out the documents herself if Sisu wasn't so huge and wet. Besides, she could read well already, but as far as Louis remembered, they hadn't progressed much with writing exercises.

In addition, he noticed a small group of onlookers gathered at the pier, but wisely not crossing the police barrier. Dressed in costumes, work uniforms, and ordinary clothes, the spectators whispered, gesticulated animatedly, and someone even took out a phone. Well, that was to be expected. Any "closed" event always attracts people, and the heroine of today's noon was capable of drawing attention to herself even without any effort.

Finally, Tibo nodded satisfactorily and pressed something several times on the tablet. He said to Sisu:

"Here, we need your electronic signature as confirmation that everything you've said is recorded correctly."

"What?" she asked. Sensing the need to intervene, Louis stepped forward:

"Just take the plastic stick and write your name here. You can add some fancy loop for importance, it's often done on land."

"Got it."

Almost panting from diligence – the stylus turned out to be too small for her fingers – the dragoness signed about half of the electronic sheet. The ram made a sour face, but still confirmed:

"It'll do. Iga, prepare the forms while Gaskin conducts the general inspection."

"I won't."

"Excuse me?"

The leopard was clearly hesitant. His slender figure, dressed in a light summer shirt and narrow pants, hunched over, the tip of his tail making incomprehensible figures in the air, and Gaskin also pressed against the car meticulously, as if he wanted to dive inside. He repeated a bit louder:

"I won't! Look at her – she's clearly a predator! Do you want me to be eaten?!"

"I'm sorry," the ram turned to Sisu, sincerely spreading his hands. "I would like everything to go smoothly, but in reality it never does. I do apologize for behalf of my colleague, though."

Louis frowned:

"Wait, so are we now waiting for another expert? Or will the commission be postponed altogether?"

Tibo pondered for a moment:

"According to the regulations, any sufficiently competent and impartial person will do if the main expert for some reason cannot conduct the inspection. Hm… perhaps there's one option. Captain Kirk!"

The lion turned, putting his hand on the holster of his gun. Generally, he was supposed to be watching all the time, but the commission was going peacefully, and the marine inhabitant didn't surprise the seasoned cop much. Who knows what's swimming in the sea…

"Yes, Tibo-san?"

"In the patrol, there's a medical instructor, right?"

"Of course. Sergeant Hattori, help them out."

The elephant nodded slowly and took out a small white bag from the car, hanging it over his shoulder with a belt. Up close, he looked imposing – big, majestic, with long tusks and a couple of old cuts along his ears. Plus, in a police uniform.

"Hattori Yasuhiro, Sergeant of the Cherryton Police Department," he calmly introduced himself. "Is everything… alright with you?"

"Gaskin here has some strange phobia," Tibo said with carefully concealed displeasure. "We need a general medical examination and a test for animal proteins in claws and teeth."

"I'll manage," Hattori nodded. "It's common practice for us, but I don't have express tests with me."

"Gaskin."

The leopard nodded silently, casting terrified glances at Sisu, and also climbed into the car.

"What are these tests?" Sisu asked Louis in a half-whisper. He reassuringly stroked her wet neck:

"Nothing special. They probably want to know if you're sick and, at the same time, check if you've accidentally eaten someone."

"I don't eat sentient beings!" she exclaimed indignantly. Louis nodded:

"I know. So let them make sure of that, and then, most likely, we'll get what we need."

Next to her, Yasuhiro looked much more imposing than the other animals, but still not large enough. And such a position seemed unnatural for an elephant, but the policeman remained cool-headed. He carefully examined her skin under the fur, checked her eyes, measured blood pressure, pulse, and temperature, and also asked about the normal values for her species. No one knew, including the dragoness herself.

"So let's consider these values normal," the elephant sighed and gently took from the leopard what looked like a school set for watercolor painting at first glance – a small square booklet, next to it several jars with transparent and translucent liquids. But the medical instructor clearly knew how to handle field equipment. He took out the booklet, tore off a pre-separated half of a yellow sheet with a light-gray stripe in the middle, and asked Sisu:

"Please, open your mouth."

She obediently opened her jaws, which could easily accommodate an elephant's head. Nervous Gaskin cursed and covered his eyes with his palm, Iga punched the spotted cat in the back with his fist – fortunately, their actions were out of the camera's view. But even the phlegmatic giraffe seemed tired of watching this.

The forgotten director Kamanori, standing almost next to the deer, grinned crookedly and somewhat unpleasantly:

"Why even hire… such ones?"

"Well… I was scared of Sisudatu the first time too."

"Yes, but he keeps whining. In… more dangerous places, someone like Gaskin just wouldn't survive."

"Like what, for example?" Louis asked suspiciously.

"Umm… Cherryton Academy?" the director skeptically suggested. "I hope I'll last longer than Gon-san."

"Don't speak like that, Kamanori-san…"

"We are all mortals."

After holding the paper with the swab in a bottle for some time, Hattori nodded satisfactorily:

"Clean. Traces of meat – negative. It's as if you've never been sick, no scars or marks. Although I would recommend a general blood test for a proper examination…"

"It's not included in the regulations," Tibo shook his head. "Although we always recommend it to everyone without exception. Thank you, Yasuhiro, please sign here. Gaskin, please scribble under his signature 'Examination conducted correctly, no objections or amendments from me,' and sign yours too. We'll talk later upon our return."

Tibo's icy tone didn't bode well for the timid expert, but Louis wasn't concerned about the fate of the predator who was scared of a much larger predator.

"And what about Sisudatu's case?" Louis inquired.

"Everything is fine," unexpectedly the official warmly smiled. "There are some issues related more to her size than to the possibility of immigration, but I'll explain everything now. You can go, Sergeant."

The elephant silently bowed to them and then to Sisu, before heading towards the patrol.

"I'll take the liberty to give a positive conclusion," the ram began to explain, while the dragoness approached closer, and eventually they formed a group of four – Louis with the director, Sisu, and Tibo. "However, in your case, Sisu, there will be some inevitable restrictions. For example, you'll be forbidden from attending open-air mass events."

"For example?" she inquired with sadness.

"Movie theaters, festivals, or sports stadiums. The presence of such… a perfect creature of your size would surely cause panic and stampede."

"So, I won't be able to attend the theater either?" she asked sadly.

"No, you will. But only for private, invitation-only screenings or those held within the premises of specific institutions. For example, this includes Cherryton Academy, whose director is present here," Tibo explained.

"We'll discuss that later," Malchasin nodded.

"Do you want to use her as additional publicity?" Louis asked.

"No… on the contrary, I don't think even if we come to a gentlemen's agreement, the presence of a dragon at the school needs to be massively advertised."

Deep down, Louis fully agreed with him but felt it necessary to ask, "Will the parents of the students revolt?"

"And that too," the director nodded sorrowfully.

Tibo continued, "Furthermore, the same will apply to transport not equipped with special places, of course, public transport. She will be prohibited from consuming any legal drugs like alcohol and tobacco, participating in competitive sports, and performing religious rites that violate the rights and freedoms of other citizens."

"It seems like a lot… but at the same time, there's nothing that would be difficult to comply with," the deer cautiously commented. The official sighed sadly, "You would know how many marine migrants agree and then still violate… and their conditions are even softer. Often just entry without any restrictions, but then our laws begin to suffer. I hope Sisudatu won't follow that path."

"Don't worry," she shook her head. "First of all, I won't betray Louis' trust."

"Glad to hear that. In any case, your ID, which is also your identity card, won't be ready until next week. But until then, this form can be used as a document… Iga, is everything filled out?"

"Yes, Tibo-san," the giraffe, who had been diligently writing something on the official-looking document, replied. "All that's left is your signature and seal."

"First, the consent of the migrating… Sisu, look here, please, and clearly say: 'I accept, support, and consider legitimate the decision of the immigration commission regarding my candidacy.'"

"Why?" she asked.

"So we have formal consent."

"But I… I already agreed. And signed something."

"That was a questionnaire, and now we need consent on video," the ram patiently explained. Sisu obediently repeated the formulation on camera with a bewildered look. After that, the ram turned off the camera and handed them a double-sided stapled sheet. Louis carefully took the document, made sure Tibo's signature and seal were in place, and a slow smile spread across his lips.

"With this, we can consider our field meeting concluded," Tibo announced and inclined his horned head towards Sisu. "Once again, accept my compliments on your language proficiency."

"My reading is a bit worse," she replied, looking down.

"It's okay. I think your friends on land will quickly catch up. I leave you now and don't forget to pick up your card next week."

"Okay," Louis replied for her. When the sedan rolled along the pier, he approached the still alert policemen:

"Captain… Kirk, right?"

"Yes," the lion answered cautiously.

"Can you help? It seems the crowd has grown even larger while we were filling out the last documents…" Louis quietly spoke, gesturing towards the onlookers. "We need to somehow make our way to the bus."

"Is everything fine with the commission?"

"Yes, we passed," he waved the document in front of the law enforcement officer's face. The latter grumbled, "Just don't cause trouble on my territory, okay?"

"Never!" Sisu exclaimed enthusiastically. The deer snorted, "We're from Cherryton anyway."

"That's the problem, I'm from there too," the lion frowned menacingly.

"In any case, we're not rogues from the black market," the director spoke peaceably. "I believe your concerns are groundless, Captain."

"Alright. Hattori, Digan, get in the car. Let's disperse the crowd there, ahead."

And as the police slowly moved forward to the barrier, causing about a third of the onlookers to seemingly vanish, Louis turned to Malchasin:

"You've seen everything yourself, Kamanori-san."

"Well," the stoat expressed uncertainly, looking at Sisu. "Your friend… knows how to impress. One question. Sisu, why do you like the theater so much?"

"It's wonderful! I mean, I've seen some movies, but they don't compare to how animals immerse themselves in roles without the environment, without the necessary…"

"Setting?" the deer prompted.

"Yes-yes, without setting. All this delightful acting, when creatures from other eras and situations are portrayed! Plus, in one play, an actor can play two or three roles at once…"

"We don't overload students like that, do we, Louis-san?" the ram smirked.

"Only if the roles are small, a couple of lines each," he chuckled.

After a silent pause, the mountain goat shrugged:

"Seeing such enthusiasm, how can I refuse?"

"Yes!" the dragoness exclaimed and jumped in place, arching her entire body, causing the director to jump aside in surprise. The deer pursed his lips disapprovingly:

"Sisudatu…"

"Sorry," she smiled apologetically. "I'm just very happy…"

"But, like Tibo, I'll have to impose a couple of mandatory conditions," the small carnivore grumbled, adjusting his jacket.

"We're listening."

"The first one – no disruption of the learning process. That means visiting the main educational buildings of the Academy is strictly prohibited. Likewise, being present at the stadium during physical education lessons, and so on. You can visit any clubs by agreement with their presidents and communicate with students after school hours. Walks are also only allowed after classes. Better - in the nighttime."

"Otherwise, we won't be able to drag half of the school away from the windows," Louis nodded understandingly, taking out his cane from the car. The crowd gradually thinned out, and they faced a long walk along the pier, which his leg couldn't approve of. The director smirked cunningly:

"Exactly, I suppose all of them. And the second condition – at least one security guard will be assigned to the drama club."

"Will it affect their work schedule?" Malchasin asked.

"I recently had to fire one of them, a koala, due to drug problems. If I put a new guy with you, no one will have any questions."

"I won't object. Sometimes security can be very useful…"

"Another sound judgment from a very rational animal. I like you, Louis-san. I don't know about your plays, but personally, dealing with you is convenient," the director slapped him lightly on the shoulder. The deer inquired:

"And my security guard, from the conglomerate security service, can he be present?"

"I'm sorry, but no. He's not part of the departmental security and is armed. Isn't that right?"

"Yes…"

"And that's strictly prohibited by the rules. I can't just let an armed animal onto the Academy grounds like I did with Sisu. I feel there will be problems with her too, but… under my responsibility. Especially since we'll both be on the board of trustees."

"Can the bus be driven on the school territory? At least the first time, afterwards I promise to park outside," Louis asked, thinking about something of his own.

"Will you drive it yourself?"

"No, of course not. But I still need to explain to the driver."

"Alright," Malchasin nodded. "Guide them directly to the drama club… and don't forget to put up large warning signs inside and outside so as not to scare the children."

"Many of those 'children' can rip my head off."

"Students. Sisu, it was nice to meet you."

"Likewise."

The stoat asked a bit less confidently, pointing to the deer's car:

"I won't have to walk back, will I?"

"Of course not. Let me think for a moment," Louis frowned. Maybe the idea of walking there and back was foolish. "Sisudatu… we'll drive literally two hundred meters ahead and stop there. Run after the car."

She asked hopefully:

"Can I swim along the pier?"

"You've almost dried off, and now you'll climb back into the water and flood the bus," the deer chuckled, patting her on the side. "Don't be lazy."

They got into the "kusari," Louis slowly turned around, trying not to fly into the water, and drove back. From the side, the small scene looked like an action scene from a movie – perhaps because the car was being chased by a dragon running with long leaps. The remnants of the crowd disappeared quickly, Captain Kirk nervously grasped his holster again, but the pursuit ended as quickly as it began.

"Louis, right?"

"Yes," nodded the deer.

"If I see something like this on the city streets, you won't get away with just a fine. Understand?" the lion asked sternly. The potential offender just sighed:

"Got it."

The bus up close turned out to be even more colorful than it initially appeared upon entering. Asking the director to wait in the car, they approached this monstrous creation of a crazy designer – despite the fact that the original color of the bus was glossy black, with even the windows tinted, the green and pink graffiti on the sides and a whole set of headlights in the most unexpected places turned the vehicle into a moving carnival. At least that's what Louis thought, but Sisu obviously disagreed with him. Firstly, she had the opportunity to meet a vehicle larger than her for the first time. Secondly…

"It's soooo cute!" exclaimed Sisu admiringly, inexplicably sniffing the sides of the bus. It smelled of road dust and a little gasoline.

"Do you think so?" smirked skeptically her companion. "Well, alright. As long as you like it."

"Why aren't all your cars like this?!"

"Uh… it's hard to say. Everyone likes different things, and manufacturers lower the cost of cars by simplifying their shapes and paint jobs. But generally, this is special transportation."

"Special for what?"

"For music bands. They order these for concerts in different cities. What I'm really wondering about is why they haven't opened the door for us yet. Hey!" he pounded his fist on the black surface.

The hollow thuds were clearly audible from inside. The bus hissed at them hydraulically, and a lemur in jeans and a black shiny vest over his bare chest stumbled out through the barely opened doors, yawning desperately and scratching the fur on his chest:

"A-oo-yes-aaugh… sorry, boss, something got into me. Who are we taking for a ride?"

Louis looked rather eloquently to his right and up, where Sisu's eyes were, curiously watching the driver. He first widened his already bulging eyes, then unexpectedly broke into a smile:

"Ah! Oh, that's awesome! A live dragon! No one will believe me when I tell them. Can I take a photo?"

Sisu looked questioningly at the deer, who nodded with an incomprehensible grimace:

"I think you can. News spreads quickly."

"Cool!" repeated the lemur and instantly pulled out his phone, snapping a few shots of the dragoness. "And what's your name? Boss, does he understand our language?"

"I understand perfectly well," said the dragoness in feigned indignation. "Firstly, I'm 'she,' and secondly, my name is Sisu."

"And thirdly, Songeku-san, you should introduce yourself," Louis added.

"Oops!" the beast exclaimed, then slapped himself on the forehead. "Nearly overslept my clients, manners have all but evaporated… I'm Dase Songeku, but they usually call me Johnny!"

"Why Johnny?"

"Why Sisu?" the lemur smiled. "Just called that. Anyway… get inside, I'll give you a little tour."

Compared to city buses, this one had a wide enough door, and Sisu climbed in without difficulty. Louis followed her, occasionally dodging the uncontrollable tail.

"So, turning around here might be a bit tricky, but… anyway, look, Sisu, there's a huge couch. I'm afraid it might still be a bit small, but a large… um… part of you will definitely fit. There's a music center with tons of latest and old records; you can search for something specific through the text input field, or just play random tracks. On the wall, there's a TV with Petflix, and in the back, there's a fridge with various goodies."

"What kind of goodies?" Sisu perked up upon hearing the word "fridge."

"Edible ones! You can clean it all out if you want; it's part of the regular rider."

"Rider?"

"In… um… the list of services," Johnny found. "During movement, it's better to lie down or sit still; if you're too active, the bus might take us to Rex's mother. So… what else?"

"Are the windows sufficiently tinted?" Louis finally asked, having squeezed through the dragon blocking the aisle. The lemur gave a thumbs-up:

"Nobody can see from outside, boss. You know, all sorts of things happen here."

"That's what I'm worried about…"

"No-no, everything's clean now. No drugs, not even alcohol; we've cleared it all out."

"Doesn't it bother you that I… well… am not dressed?" Sisu asked with interest, curling up and almost forming a ball. Unfortunately, thus cutting off their way back. Johnny grinned:

"Miss, this bus has seen as many naked bodies as you won't find even in the ocean. The couch upholstery has been changed several times, and after each client, there's a thorough cleaning and tidying up," he added immediately, casting a wary glance at the "big boss". "And I know that for you, aquatic creatures, it's normal."

Louis summed up:

"Alright. So, you're heading to the Cherryton gates, park there, and wait for further instructions."

"Cool," the lemur replied and pointed at Sisu. "Miss, I need to get to the wheel; otherwise, we won't go anywhere."

"But aren't you coming with me, Louis?"

"No. Someone has to drive my car too."

"I thought the new director would…"

"He doesn't work for me. And we're not… in such good terms yet," the deer smiled, scratching his chin. Although things with Malchasin as the director seemed to be going much smoother than with Richard Loggs. Sisu turned around and stretched along the couch, noting that the soft bed was almost as comfortable as her attic nest of pillows.

"But you know, Sisu…"

She looked at him in surprise - Louis rarely called her by her shortened name. He returned the gaze with an unexpected warmth and raised his hand:

"We're a good team. High fives."

The dragoness smiled broadly and gently touched his palm with hers, saying:

"Thank you for everything."

"Can't wait to get to the club, huh?"

Sisu nodded silently, and Louis reassured her:

"Soon. Johnny, we'll go ahead. If anything happens, you have my personal number. And if, for some reason, you're not who you say you are…"

The lemur stepped back, seeing how unexpectedly menacing the herbivore's eyes narrowed. After a pause, the deer concluded:

"But you're just an honest driver, right?"

"Um… yes, boss."

"Good then."

After he left the tour bus, Johnny turned to the only passenger and made a scared face, twirling his finger near his temple:

"Your buddy is, like, nuts for real."

"No, Louis is nice!" Sisu defended the deer.

"I'm not saying he's bad. But being nuts is another story…"

In the hall, there was a piercing howl. Legoshi flinched, turning towards the source of the sound with a mop held forward "but it was just Pina, disheveled and looking extremely angry. Seeing the wolf's questioning gaze, the ram exclaimed:

"To hell with it all!"

"What happened? How did the sports orientation go?"

"Great bliss: it's over! Legoshi, can you imagine what any sports event is like for well-groomed wool?"

"Um… yeah, probably."

"Starting with the wrong thing. Do you know what 'well-groomed' is?"

"You do realize I didn't ask about that," the wolf calmly remarked, turning around and continuing to mop the floor. "Did everything go smoothly?"

"Not smoothly! All that running, your head feels as heavy as a box of scrap metal, and you're itching to gore every tree you meet, roots sticking out everywhere, you come out all sweaty and soaked, and for what? Nothing!"

"Pina…"

The ram sighed wearily and sat right on the floor against the wall, hugging his knee. He said more calmly:

"No. There was nobody there, don't worry. All the students are safe, they made it there and back safely. I didn't even notice any police officers there, but if you say the information is reliable…"

"Utterly reliable."

Yafya, now Tosegawa, an analyst, simply couldn't supply Legoshi with false data. Or… could he? For the sake of his own goals?

"How was Wutenga?"

"Like a normal teacher. I don't know why Louis is so set against him, although in general, the fact that he identified a spy in him is some kind of strange magic. Damn it. Where are they…"

"Nobody called me."

"Me neither," said Pina, closing his eyes and repeatedly tilting his head back, rhythmically hitting his horns against the wall. "I wish they'd at least sent a message in the chat saying everything went well. And here you are, not knowing anything, worrying about who knows what… Legoshi, have you ever experienced anything like this?"

The wolf sighed:

"I have. More than once."

"And how did you cope?"

"I waited it out. Looked for ways to solve the problem."

"Even if nothing depended on you?"

"…yes. But, Pina…"

"Yes?"

"Nothing bad is happening, right? Sisu either gets the documents or she doesn't, but you'll still be able to see her."

"Much less often…"

"But you'll still be able to!" Legoshi dropped the mop and approached the ram closely, squatting down. He looked into the eyes, exhausted not so much by physical exertion as by worries. Which were groundless. "Pina, I can't imagine what's going on in your mind. But Sisu is alive, healthy, and simply answering the commission's questions."

"I can't even write in the chat… she won't be able to read it now, her laptop is in the attic."

"Call Louis."

"I already wrote a message. But that monster in a deer's body isn't answering."

"Just call…"

"I'd better go take a shower," Pina grimaced, sniffing. "You're right. Nothing will happen with them. I don't know why I got so worked up."

It seems the smell of his own sports uniform had an effect on the animal, like rubbing salmiac.

The wolf helped him up and escorted him - solely with his eyes, picking up the tool of labor again. There wasn't much dirt in the club, but he still got used to doing a light daily cleaning an hour or two before rehearsal. Although considering the size of the club, it couldn't be called light, but Legoshi didn't pay attention to such details.

From the showers came singing. The wolf pressed his ears. Pina was usually merciful enough to remember that he absolutely couldn't sing, but sometimes…

Fortunately, it ended fairly quickly.

And five minutes later, the advent happened.

"Louis!" Legoshi wagged his tail happily. His friend carefully closed the door behind him and waved his hand in greeting:

"Hello. Are you alone?"

The wolf pointed with his thumb over his shoulder towards the locker rooms and showers:

"Pina."

"Got it," the deer grinned. "Then let's wait for him."

"How did it go?"

"As I said - let's wait for our staff ram, so as not to repeat everything twenty-five times."

"Who do we have to wait for?" the ram emerged from the passage, barefoot and in only a dark blue towel wrapped around his hips. Louis grimaced:

"Get dressed."

"I am dressed. My loins are covered, see," Pina arrogantly spun around, smiling cheekily.

"Not appealing."

"So, how did it go? And why aren't you responding to messages?"

"Because I'm getting from twenty to fifty messages a day, most of which I can't just ignore!" the deer replied irritably. "If you need me urgently - call!"

Pina snorted:

"And again listening to your grumbling…"

"Then you're not worried enough."

"You can't even imagine. What about Sisu? How did the commission go?"

"Trust me, I can. And get dressed, finally!"

"I am dressed," he stuck out his tongue.

"You're in just a towel."

"There are underwear underneath."

"What underwear, your tail is over the towel!" Louis covered his eyes with his hands, mentally asking Rex that Pina would just once not be such a… Pina. He shrugged:

"Well? Do you want to indulge your vanity? I, you know, really am worried. Should I get on my knees?"

"Stop it," the wolf grimaced. Louis nodded:

"Indeed. We're being childish. Pina, everything's fine. Sisudatu's okay, and we passed the commission."

Pina let out a barely noticeable exhale. He said, adjusting the terrycloth fabric:

"And… she'll be able to be here. Right?"

"She's already on her way. I talked to the director. We can host Sisu as much as we want without any problems. With some restrictions on free movement around the area."

The ram closed his eyes, took a step forward. Another step. He said softly:

"Louis, you can be a rare bore… but I still almost love you."

"Okay… back off," the deer extended his index finger. Pina, seemingly ignoring him, slowly moved towards him. "Stop! Pina, use your brain, don't try to get too… close! I'm not tactile. I don't like your hugs!"

Legoshi tried to suppress a smile, seeing the deer retreat from his grateful fellow member of the order, but laughter burst out. And the ram didn't disappoint - he lunged forward, enveloping the crippled director in strong embrace. With a helpless look, the deer looked at his laughing friend, trying not to touch the half-naked creature, who only expressed his strange emotions in this way. Lowering his gaze, Legoshi delicately pointed out:

"Pina… your towel fell."

"So what? Screw it," the ram replied hoarsely. Louis asked hopelessly:

"He's naked, isn't he?"

The wolf smiled awkwardly, but didn't say a word.

"Okay. Better not answer. I just won't look."

"Prude," the ram said with a slight smile, bending down for the towel.

"Find something more festive. Sisu will be here any minute."

"Only for the sake of your bashful muzzles. She accepts me as I am," Pina cheekily commented and turned towards the locker rooms, again securing his unreliable garment at the waist. Watching as the Dall's ram disappeared into the side corridor, Louis remarked:

"This is no longer a theater, but some kind of wild modern performance. He's an incorrigible scoundrel."

"An eccentric creature."

"That's what they'll write in the press thirty years from now, when the celebrity named Pina will be throwing another orgy at his Hollywood villa. But for now - he's an incorrigible scoundrel."