Sequel to Spectrophilia.
Plot: It's been eight months since SPR has reopened. Mai is trying to navigate her relationship with Naru. Kuroda is still mooning over Hiro, Masako has been away from casework since her injury and Ayako has a surprise no one knows, even herself.
After months of minor level cases, the team take on one in the country, outside Tokyo. An old onsen appears to be experiencing a terrible occurrence. Anytime a pregnant woman enters the property, she's attacked viciously, to the point where she loses the baby. What spirit holds this much malice? How can they lure it into presenting itself without endangering themselves?
And what will Mai do when she finds out she has a stalker?
!TRIGGER WARNING: Mentions of pregnancy, miscarriage, violence, sexual violence, stalking, depression and other themes that might be triggering.
Chapter 1
"Happy birthday, Mai!" Ayako and Monk shouted, nearly causing Mai to fall right out of bed. Sitting up, she stared blankly at her friends.
"Oh, we woke you up. I'm sorry." Ayako giggled. "You get ready. We've got big plans for today."
Mai smiled sleepily. It's just like them to plan a whole day around it. Getting out of bed, she hurriedly got dressed, choosing a sapphire blue blouse and a jean skirt. Slipping on some flats, she entered the front room of Ayako's apartment. Ayako and Monk stood around the table. In the center was several presents, beautifully wrapped.
Mai sighed. "I thought we agreed, no gifts."
"I lied" Ayako said in a sing-song tone. "You deserve nice things. Now, eat."
Ayako led Mai over to the table and sat her down in front of a plate of food. Mai did as she was told. "Okay, I'm eating. May I know what the big plan is?"
"No, not yet." Monk grinned. "But, you will be happy to know we invited everyone. Naru, John, Yasuhara, Lin."
"Kuroda?"
"Of course." Ayako reassured her.
Mai looked at the gifts while she ate, feeling guilty. Ayako and Monk have done so much for her over the past year. To now expect to be given presents is just too much.
"Hurry. We've got a time slot to make." Monk urged her.
"Is it a movie?"
"Nope. You'll never guess." Monk stuck his tongue out playfully.
"Well, whatever it is, you've convinced Naru to give up a Saturday, so it must not be terrible for him."
"That boy would step in front of a car if he thought you'd enjoy it." Ayako laughed at her own joke.
Mai blushed, a goofy smile forming. This past year has been...entirely new to her. Naru's been his usual self, of course. No relationship will change that. But he makes time to be alone with her and take her on small dates. Cafes, parks, museums. Even a popular art show, most recently. He didn't appear to enjoy a single second of it, but he still took her because she mentioned it.
He's been more affectionate than she expected. Holding her hand, kissing her cheek or lips. So long as it's their own private time, he's willing to find little silent ways to show he cares. On cases, he's as he always is.
Speaking of. Cases, lately, have been a bit simple. Not that they aren't interesting. Any paranormal investigation is. But, they lack the excitement Mai's accustomed to. Hopefully, that will change, soon.
Looking up from her breakfast, Mai noticed Ayako and Monk were standing a ways away, whispering to each other. That's been happening a lot. Monk's been by to visit more often when Ayako usually limits how often she lets him into her apartment. The other day, she thought she even heard their voices coming from inside Ayako's bedroom. She's not sure what all the secrecy is for. If the two decided to start dating, Mai would be happy for them.
Finishing up her food, she carried the plate into the kitchen, only for Ayako to intercept her, taking it and quickly washing it. "Okay, ready?"
"Change your shoes. We'll be doing a lot of walking." Monk advised.
Mai hurried to put on her sneakers. Opening her bedside drawer, she reached in for a silver anklet she recently purchased. As she pulled it out, she spotted the gold pendant from John. She'd put it away after she started dating Naru. John's been absent for a while, choosing to take on more work at the parish. That he's willing to meet up with everyone today is surprising.
"Mai!" Ayako called.
"On my way!" Putting on the anklet, she shut the drawer and hurried out of her room.
Piling into Ayako's car, they began driving West. Mai looked at everything out the window, trying to guess what they must have planned. They passed several possible contenders. When, at last, they reached a large parking lot, Mai gasped.
"An amusement park!" She grinned. "Really?"
"Really. We've got fast passes. We'll get on all the rides pretty quickly. It'll be great." Monk gave her a thumbs up.
"How did you ever convince Naru to come here?"
"The knowledge it will put a smile on your face." Ayako gave Mai a teasing smile.
Too excited to wait another minute, Mai hopped out of the car and hurried towards the entrance. She could already see everyone waiting near it. Rushing ahead, she skid to a stop just in front of Naru. She looked over his usual black attire.
"Naru, it's July. You're going to get heat stroke." Mai lightly admonished him.
"I'm not wearing a jacket. Isn't that enough?" He met her eyes, his holding just enough softness to make her weak in the knees.
"Mai, how are you?" Yasuhara pulled Mai into a hug, shaking her around like a rag doll for a moment before putting her down.
John was next to hug her. "It's been a while."
Mai pulled back to smile at him. "I'm happy you could make it."
She looked to Kuroda next. Kuroda handed Mai a small gift bag. "Happy Birthday."
Mai smiled, too happy to be bothered by the gift. She opened it, finding a copy of the book she's been talking about. "You found it!"
"I had to go online. It was all sold out at the local stores." Kuroda beamed.
"Thank you." Mai hugged her.
Naru took the book from Mai to read the back cover. Ayako walked ahead to collect their day passes. Monk leaned his arm on Mai's head. "So what should we do first? I vote roller coaster."
"Yes!" Yasuhara cheered.
"Oh, um...maybe." Mai looked away. Roller coasters aren't her strong suit. But, if everyone really wants to ride one, she'll put up with it.
Naru slipped the book into the gift bag and handed it off to Monk to hold. Monk stuck his tongue out. "What? Am I the pack mule for the day?"
"I can hold it." Mai reached for it.
"Not a chance. Today, you're princess Mai." Ayako helped Mai put her day pass bracelet on her left wrist. "Sadly, I forgot to get you a crown."
Mai laughed. "I wouldn't wear it."
Everyone headed in, making their way through the crowds. It being a Saturday ensures lots of people will be around. Falling into step beside Naru, Mai took his hand. He laced his fingers with hers.
Nearby, Kuroda gave Mai a knowing smile. She's been one of the biggest supporters of the relationship. And, now that her friendship with Keiko and Michiru seems to have cooled over the past several months, Mai finds herself fully supporting the idea of Kuroda dating Hiro. When she gets around to asking him, that is.
Mai looked down, a little sad. She never expected her friendship with them to end. After Michiru was in the hospital, her parents made good on moving away. Mai called everyday, until Michiru stopped answering her calls. With the always kind Michiru gone from the trio, Keiko and Mai started arguing more. About Kuroda, about things in general. It eventually became too much and Mai stopped talking to her. It made high school graduation a sad affair. To see her friend walk across the stage to receive her diploma, knowing she couldn't celebrate with her. Now, with high school behind her, there's no reason to see them, even in passing. Still, she wishes things could have been different.
Naru squeezed her hand, bringing her out of her funk. She glanced up at him, sharing a silent look. He always seems to know when her thoughts shift to darker things. As time moves on, Mai's started to notice more of his tics as well. The way he furrows his brows a certain way when he's confused, the subtle jaw tension when he's annoyed, the crabby attitude when he's hungry.
They filed into the line for a much tamer ride. After that, they worked their way down the strip, checking out anything that looked interesting. But, eventually, time came for them to try a coaster. As they stood in line, Mai felt her stomach knot up.
"There's no shame in defeat."
Naru had said that, guessing her apprehension. Mai crossed her arms. "I can manage."
"Very well. I suppose I'll have to join you. Just promise not to throw up on me."
"I wouldn't." She blushed, not quite sure if she can mean it.
Working their way to the front of the line, they were shown to their seats by a helpful employee. Mai sat beside Naru, her stomach practically in pain from how nervous she is. Taking his hand, she didn't realize how tightly she was squeezing it until he pulled away to flex his fingers.
"Let's not break anything." He smirked, offering her his hand, again.
"Sorry." She blushed. Taking a deep breath, she leaned back in her seat as the ride employee came by to check they were fastened in.
"Nervous?" The employee asked. He looked to be a younger guy, maybe a little older than Naru.
"A little." Mai admitted.
"Don't be." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a large screw. "I'm sure this isn't important, anyway."
Mai practically started hyperventilating. Naru glared. "Was that necessary?"
"Just part of the experience." The guy sauntered off.
"Mai, it's a joke." Naru shook her by her hand. "A stupid one."
Calming down somewhat, she looked ahead, trying to settle her pounding heart.
The intercom blasted overhead. "Get ready! In three...two...one. Go!"
The ride shot forward like a canon. Shutting her eyes, she held onto Naru's hand for dear life. Naru squeezed her hand back. "Mai, look."
Opening her eyes, she immediately looked over at Naru, too afraid to look ahead. He kept his eyes locked with hers, his hair blowing back. Mai felt herself calming down the longer she looked at him. It almost distracted from the sudden drops. Before she knew it, the ride pulled back into the station.
Mai was one of the first to get off. She had to stand on solid ground for a moment, to regain her balance.
"That was terrifying!" Monk pat Mai on the back. "You okay?"
"No more roller coasters." Naru told him. Nearby, Ayako spilled her guts into a trashcan.
"Sure, sure. It's your birthday, Mai. Day's all about you. Now, who wants lunch?"
"If I throw it up, I'll aim at you." Mai gave Monk a playful glare. They headed away from the ride, walking around a bit before going to find a good food vendor.
Later in the evening, as the sun was beginning to set, everyone started breaking away in groups. Ayako with Monk, John with Yasuhara, Mai with Naru, Lin bringing up the rear with Kuroda. Naru pulled on Mai's hand. "This way."
Smiling, Mai followed him over to a bench under a cherry tree. Just a couple months prior, it must have been very beautiful with its pink petals. Now, it's a vivid green. Sitting on the bench together, Naru reached into his shirt pocket and pulled out a black velvet pouch.
"Happy birthday." He looked ever so slightly embarrassed as he handed it to her.
"You got me a gift?" Mai smiled brightly. Opening the pouch, she pulled out a little silver bracelet with two gemstones. A ruby for Mai's birthstone and a sapphire for Naru's. Unable to help herself, her eyes welled with tears.
"I doubt it's ugly enough to warrant crying." Naru smirked. It lessened slightly into a genuine smile. Her heart lurched at the sight.
"It's beautiful." She assured him. "It's perfect. Help me put it on?"
Naru took the delicate bracelet and fastened it on her right wrist. Taking her hand, he brought it up to his mouth and kissed it. Her face lit up. This is truly, without question, the best birthday ever.
"Hey, were did Mai go?" They heard Monk say loudly enough to carry over to them, interrupting their stolen moment.
Sighing, Mai stood. "We better get back."
"One more moment won't kill them." Pulling her back by her hand, Naru leaned in and kissed her. Mai wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him back. She felt his hands drop to her waist. When they broke apart, Mai was breathless. Naru lifted her head by her chin. His smirk was back. "Compose yourself, or they'll think I've compromised you."
Mai blushed cherry red. Before she could say anything, the others found her. After fussing over her for a second, they continued their crawl through the extensive amusement park.
After the sun set, everyone headed out to their respective cars. Mai paused by Naru's black Mazda. "Thank you for coming, today. I hope it was at least mildly enjoyable."
"It was bearable." Naru shrugged. "And the primary goal is to please you. I think that's been accomplished."
Mai looked down at the bracelet he gifted her. "Very much so."
"Alright, wrap it up. We've got an early day, tomorrow." Ayako called for them.
Mai smiled up at Naru. "See you at work, tomorrow."
"Early. We have a new case."
Mai smiled in appreciation. He'd waited all day to even mention work. He really put in the effort to make today special. "Looking forward to it. Bye."
Mai hurried to join Ayako by her car. Climbing into the back with Monk, the two played car games until they dropped Monk off. Back at Ayako's apartment, Mai headed for the bathroom, only for Ayako to zip around her. Ayako slammed the bathroom door shut. From the sounds of it, she's throwing up, again.
"Are you okay?" Mai knocked.
"Yes, just give me a minute!"
Mai backed up and headed for her room. Getting comfortable on her bed, she stared at her phone's wallpaper, a picture taken of Naru on one of their dates.
Ayako emerged from the bathroom a few minutes later, looking haggard. "Are you sure you're alright? That's the second time you've thrown up, today."
"The food didn't agree with me." Ayako explained, both hands on her stomach. "I'm gonna lay down. Goodnight. I hope you had a great birthday."
"I did. Thank you."
"Don't forget about your presents." Ayako shut herself in her room.
Sighing, Mai trudged into the kitchen to check the gifts. Most were clothes, courtesy of Ayako. One was an mp3 player from Monk. Cherry red, with her name engraved on it. She smiled, trying not to think about how much both of them must have spent.
Taking everything into her room, she put the clothes away and plugged the mp3 into her computer. Monk's already added all his band's music. Copying over her own playlist, she put in some headphones and listened to music while she fell asleep.
Bright and early the next morning, Mai headed into SPR, having been dropped off by Ayako. She waved to Lin as he prepped himself coffee. Setting down her bag, she made Naru his tea and headed into his office to deliver it. She kept quiet, seeing as he was on the phone. He got off a short while later and accepted his tea.
"That was the client."
"What kind of case is it?"
He handed her the file. She looked it over. "The ghost is attacking...pregnant women?"
"And causing miscarriages, yes. The client has had to close their business until things are taken care of, to prevent more injuries."
"That's so sad. I wonder why it's attacking them."
"I have Yasuhara researching the history of Shimizu Onsen."
Mai's eyes lit up. "We'll be investigating a hot springs inn?"
"It appears so. It comes across as a risky case, but I figured, with no one being pregnant, it would be safer for us."
"Shall I get to making calls?" Mai asked.
"It's already taken care of, for the most part. Only Matsuzaki remains. You can inform her when she comes to pick you up." Offering his hand to her, Naru guided her around the desk, to his side. She put her other hand on his shoulder, enjoying the closeness. "I have a request."
"What?" Mai smiled, prepared to do just about anything.
"Firstly, it's important for everyone to stay in groups during this case."
Mai nodded. "Of course. Do you really think it will be that dangerous?"
Naru sighed. "It was Lin's idea. I want to preface with that. He believes it will bring the spirit out of hiding without actually endangering anyone."
Mai nodded along. "And that is?"
"I want you to pretend to be pregnant."
Mai felt her stomach drop like she was back on that roller coaster. "W-what?"
Naru looked away. "You heard me."
Mai felt her hands shaking, torn between disbelief and embarrassment. "Are you sure that will work?"
"I'm assuming this entity bases his attacks on appearance. With the right props, it can look very convincing."
Mai met his eyes. "What will everyone say?"
"You'll not be the only one. Matsuzaki, Miss Naoko and Miss Hara will be doing the same."
Mai's stomach knotted up for a new reason. "Masako is joining us on the case?"
"She's fully recovered and is looking forward to getting back to work."
Mai bit her lip. "Does she have to?"
He raised a brow. "Why do you not want her on the case?"
"Well..." Mai blushed. "She likes to flirt with you."
Naru's lips twitched as he seemed to fight a smirk. "Are you jealous?"
"No." She answered quickly. Too quickly.
Taking her hands, he stood up and kissed her. "Are you really so bothered by this?"
Mai smiled, half dazed from the kiss. "I suppose not. I can put up with it."
"I'm here!" Kuroda called from the main room. Giving Naru one more kiss, Mai went to join her and prep her on their newest case.
Halfway through the discussion, Mai trailed off, her face showing her disbelief. Naru told her to pretend to be pregnant. This is insane! What precisely does he expect her to do? Inform the ghost herself?
Kuroda waved a hand in front of Mai's face. Mai blushed. "Sorry...I think I'm just still in shock over what's expected of us."
"What do you mean?"
Mai looked over at Naru's closed office door for a second. "We're going to pretend to be pregnant to lure out the ghost."
Kuroda's face lit up like a firework. "No!"
"I know." Mai buried her face in her hands.
"How?"
"With these." Lin came into the main office and showed a picture on his tablet, depicting a type of plush that straps under the shirt to create the illusion of a bump. "I'll be picking them up this afternoon."
Mai stared at the picture in horror. Kuroda let out a small giggle. "This job is crazy."
Returning to his office, Lin left the girls to gossip about the case. Eventually, the topic of college came up. Mai explained her process, so far. "I put in my application at the same time you did. I plan to apply for scholarships, should I get accepted. There are types I qualify for because I've been on my own since I was still underage."
"I can't imagine they'll turn you down. You're dating Professor Davis' son."
Mai glanced nervously at Naru's office. "I'd never take advantage of that. I want to get into this school on my own merit."
"I understand. I'm sorry." Kuroda frowned. "I guess part of me hoped it would play a part, since I'm working for Mr Shibuya."
"I don't think so. I'm sorry. But, that doesn't mean we both won't get in."
They got to work after that. Around four, Lin returned with the fake bellies. Naru emerged from his office to assist. Blushing like crazy, Mai held up the bottom half of her shirt while a little belly was strapped around her. She smoothed out her shirt.
"How does it look?"
"Kind of cute." Kuroda smiled. "You look to be about three or four months. It's very convincing."
"It's lopsided." Naru knelt down in front of Mai and adjusted the belly, wrapping his hands around it. In that same moment, Ayako opened the door to SPR.
Everyone froze as Ayako took in the situation. Looking like hell itself was rising up in her eyes, Ayako crossed the room and punched Naru.
"You bastard!"
Mai stood there, too shocked to move. When it looked like Ayako might go in for another punch, she hurried to block her access to Naru. "Wait! It's fake! I swear!"
Mai lifted her shirt up high enough to show the plush belly. Ayako blinked in surprise. "What...is that?"
Taking off the belly, Mai handed it to Kuroda and spun around to look at Naru. He'd carefully stood up, his eye already beginning to swell. "Oh my god! Ice! We need ice!"
Mai hurried into the kitchen. Fishing an ice pack out of the freezer, she rushed to hand it to Naru. He took it, looking irritable. Mai looked at Ayako. "Why did you hit him!"
"I saw your belly and thought of how distracted I've been, lately. I thought you might be hiding a pregnancy."
"No!" Mai felt herself getting exasperated. "That's impossible!"
"Impossible?" Ayako looked in Mai's eyes, searching them for the truth. She relaxed. "Oh...I see. I'm relieved to hear that."
Mai fussed over Naru as he held the ice pack to his face. He waved her off. Naru glared at Ayako. "Now that you've been informed of a key detail of the case, why don't you read the file?"
Lin handed Ayako the case file. She looked it over, becoming somber. "Ah. That's quite sad. I'm not sure how I feel about Mai setting herself up to be attacked."
The attacks, according to Mrs Shimizu, the attacks focus primarily on the belly. The plush will protect you."
Ayako nodded along, only to freeze. "Me?"
"You will be wearing one as well." Naru explained.
Ayako's face turned bright red in either embarrassment or anger. Not wanting to wait to find out, Mai stepped back in front of Naru. Ayako stomped her foot. "I am NOT wearing one of those ridiculous things! Why don't you wear one, you stupid narcissist!"
Picking up on her mood, Lin sat down a larger belly that could pass for eight or nine months. He looked at Naru. "If Miss Matsuzaki refuses, that still leaves three."
Naru sighed. "Consider it a favor."
"I don't owe you a favor!"
"For punching me needlessly."
Ayako blushed a little. "Ah...I am sorry. I just saw my poor little Mai looking like you knocked her up and my emotions got a hold of me."
It was Naru's turn to blush. Mai marveled at the sight of him looking so flushed. It doesn't happen often. He looked away from everyone. "It's not as if anyone outside of the team will see you looking this way."
Ayako flopped down in one of the chairs in the main office. "Is this truly necessary? God...fine. But, if anyone sees me, you'll personally explain."
"Fair enough." Naru handed her the nine month belly.
Ayako scoffed. "Why do I have to look so pregnant?"
"You're the oldest." Naru backed up as soon as he said it, not wanting to be in Ayako's reach.
Grumbling, Ayako snatched the belly and put it on. She crossed her arms, resting them on the top of the belly. "How do I look?"
"Like you're about to pop!" Mai exclaimed.
"This is very stupid." Ayako sat back down.
The rest of the team arrived shortly after. While Masako and Kuroda tried their belly's on, Monk laughed uncontrollably at Ayako. "This is amazing! You look like a watermelon!"
Ayako glared. "I can still kick your ass with this thing on."
He backed a safe distance away, but continued to cackle. Mai looked around. With the bellies on, Kuroda looks about six months and Masako looks four months, like Mai. "I suppose this case is going to be more dangerous than I thought."
"The idea isn't to let you get attacked." Naru sipped the tea he'd made for himself after all this mess. His eye, while less swollen, looks like it will bruise. "It's to lure the spirit into showing itself. Pairings for this case will be based on the other party's ability to protect the decoy."
"What are the pairings?" Ayako huffed, still not happy.
"Matsuzaki with Takigawa, Father Brown with Miss Naoko, Miss Hara with Lin and Mai with me. Your job is to stay with your partner. Do not separate for any reason. Since the majority of the attacks have taken place at night, sleeping arrangements will be everyone to the same room on futons."
Ayako groaned. "No privacy?"
"I'm afraid not." Lin mumbled. He didn't look any happier with the plan.
Kuroda shrugged. "It'll be alright. Like one big sleepover."
"Except it's work." Naru returned to his office, leaving the others to get used to their partner assignments. Mai couldn't complain. The one she most wants to work with is her partner. And she doesn't have to worry about Kuroda, since John is her partner. Really, it's very ideal pairings.
Ripping off her belly, Ayako shared a sullen look with monk, who grinned back at her. He took the belly and put it on. "How do I look?"
Ayako finally cracked a smile. "You should wear it for the case. Don't worry, I'll protect you from the big bad ghost."
Mai laughed. Removing her own belly, she folded the straps and placed it on her desk. The plan is to leave for the onsen tomorrow. Let's hope Ayako doesn't kill Monk in that time. Or Naru, for that matter.
Wrapping up with preparations, Ayako, Mai and Kuroda left together. Dropping Kuroda off at her house, they went back to the apartment. As soon as they were inside, Ayako collapsed on the couch.
"You alright?" Mai sat beside her.
"For some reason, I'm always tired. All I want to do after work is nap. I'm kind of looking forward to taking time off from the hospital. I love the job, but it keeps me on my feet."
Mai felt her forehead. "You're a little warm. You seemed to get sick, last night. Maybe, you're coming down with something."
Ayako waved off her concern. "Don't worry about me. Just prepare yourself. I'm still not wild about the idea of you walking around like you're pregnant."
Mai smiled. "It's just pretend."
"Yeah, I suppose...I'm gonna take a nap on the couch. You'll be okay for dinner?"
"I'll make enough for both of us." Mai hopped up and entered the kitchen.
Later that evening, Mai laid in bed, texting Naru.
Message:
How's your eye? -Mai
Message:
Definitely bruised. -Naru
Message:
I've got to admit, I'm a little embarrassed to do this. -Mai
Message:
There's nothing to be embarrassed about. -Naru
Message:
Easy for you to say. You don't have to wear a fake baby bump. -Mai
Message:
It's just for a few days. Now, get some sleep. Goodnight. -Naru
Mai smiled at her phone. She imagined him putting his own phone aside and going to rest in his room. He's always so put together. What must Naru look like in repose?
Mai blushed as a mental image of Naru shirtless popped into her head. Not that she's seen him in anything less than he usually wears. She rolled over on her bed and practically screamed into the pillow. Stop thinking about it!
When the image didn't leave her, she sighed and accepted it. It's not a bad thing to think about. They've been dating for eight months. But, their dynamic isn't like that. At this point, they haven't even said they love each other. Mai thinks it daily, but hasn't reiterated it. Does Naru love her, or just like her?
Mai rolled on her side. Will they reach that point? Things have been wonderful, yes. But, nothing has changed, other than the frequency of Naru kissing her. Would he want things to change? Say 'I love you' and all? If they do reach that point, how long will it take? Months, years?
Mai grabbed her mp3, to drown out her dampened mood.
Early the next morning, Mai carried her travel bag out of Ayako's apartment and to the elevator. Ayako, as usual, packed heavy, bringing enough clothes for a month in a giant rolling suitcase.
"We'll be there for a week, tops. What did you pack, the kitchen sink?"
"You can never be too prepared." Ayako grumbled. "I feel terrible. How'd you sleep?"
"Not too well." Mai admitted. "I always have trouble sleeping before a big case."
"So do I. And this one in particular is giving me nightmares. A ghost with enough spiritual force to attack people. It must be terrifying."
Mai shivered a little as they left the apartment, despite the warm July air. All those poor people suffering the loss of a child. It must be heartbreaking.
Naru's black Mazda pulled up at the curb. Mai got in the passenger seat and looked behind her, at Monk and Kuroda. "Where's everyone else?"
"Riding with Lin in the van."
Mai silently sighed in relief. The last thing she wants is to watch Masako try to flirt with Naru first thing in the morning. "Should we head straight there or grab breakfast?"
"Food will be provided, I'm told." Naru pulled back out onto the road. "Your props are in the trunk. Put them on when we get there. You should be wearing the bellies when we enter the onsen."
Monk threw an arm around Ayako. Still looking irritable, Ayako shook his arm off. Mai frowned. Why has she been so unwell, lately?
Turning back around in her seat, Mai looked at Naru's hand as it rested on the gear shift, wondering how he'd feel if she held it, now. They're not quite on the case, yet. There's still the drive.
Guessing her intentions, Naru offered his hand. Smiling brightly, Mai took it. She beamed as she stared straight ahead. She hasn't even had her morning tea and she's already feeling chipper.
"Is this all it takes to please you?" Naru smirked, his voice low enough only she could hear.
"It's a start." Mai blinked, surprised at herself. Where'd that attitude come from?
Naru's shoulders relaxed as he drove. The whole drive, he kept his fingers laced with hers. It was only as they arrived that he finally let go.
Getting out of the car, everyone stopped at the trunk to fuss with the bellies. Mai had chosen a flowy sundress in a pale pink, to better accentuate the belly. Checking her reflection in the car window, she stepped out of the way so Kuroda could put hers on. Mai looked over at Masako, already wearing hers when she arrived. She now understood why she was given a six month belly. Anything less wouldn't be visible under her kimono.
An older woman in a traditional black kimono stepped out of the onsen. She held a hand out to Naru, who stepped ahead of the group. "You must be Mr Shibuya. You're as young as they say." The woman looked at Naru's bruised eye, but didn't say anything about it.
"Mrs Shimizu. It's a pleasure to meet you. These are my team members." Naru gestured.
She put a hand over her heart. "My...you said some of your staff would be pretending to be pregnant. I see you've already begun. It's very convincing."
Mai blushed a similar shade to her dress. Naru gave her a brief look before turning back to Mrs Shimizu. "Where should we set up?"
"Ah, right this way." Mrs Shimizu smiled and turned on her heel, leading the way into the traditional looking onsen. Passing through a small entryway, everyone was encouraged to remove their shoes and put on slippers. Heading up a staircase just in the foyer, they headed towards the first door on the left. She opened it to reveal a large room, empty, save for a couple low tables and some cushions. "This should suit for your equipment. The closet contains enough futons for everyone."
"Thank you." Naru sat the box he was carrying down on the table and opened it.
"Well, I'll leave you to it." Mrs Shimizu bowed and backed out of the room. Mai bowed back. When she was gone, the team got straight to work. It took several trips to bring everything up the stairs. Eventually, the monitors were set up on the table to the left of the door.
"This place is beautiful." Ayako complimented. "It feels tranquil. Nothing like I imagined."
"I concur." Masako circled the room. "I sense some energy, but it's not malicious. Perhaps, things will shift as the sun sets."
Mai opened the sliding paper screen window and looked out, over a small garden. A ways to the left, barely in view, was the hot springs.
"Let's begin setting up cameras. Takigawa and Matsuzaki will be responsible for that. Father Brown and Miss Naoko will take temperature readings."
"And me?" Mai stepped forward.
"Tea." He smirked. She smiled back, rolling her eyes.
"Of course."
These tasks took remarkably little time. The onsen only contains eight rooms total, with two sitting rooms on the first floor. Aside from that, a kitchen, a couple communal bathrooms and a steam room.
Handing Naru his tea, Mai stood in the open doorway, wishing she could explore. This really is a stunning place.
"There will be plenty of time to explore, later." Naru told her.
She spun around. "How'd you know what I was thinking?"
"It's written all over your face." He sipped his tea. Mai blushed. Is she really so predictable? "Yes, you are."
She nearly laughed. Spinning around, she went to sit on a cushion at the main table. John and Kuroda returned to the room next. They both sat around the table, accepting tea from Mai.
"I hope food is served soon." Kuroda held her belly.
"I'm sure it'll be any minute." Mai reassured her. Looking over at the monitors, she watched as Masako carefully approached Naru.
"It's been a long time since I had the pleasure to work with you, Kazuya."
"I hope your physical therapy has been going well." Naru didn't look at her as he spoke.
"Very well. My doctor says I've made a complete recovery. I hope to be of use to you on this case."
Mai didn't like the double meaning in her words. She tried not to bristle. Naru, for his credit, didn't even acknowledge what she said. "Lin, hand me my laptop."
Masako tried again. "We work well, together, I think. It's a shame we couldn't be paired together. But, I suppose you let your assistants pick."
Naru did correct this. "I chose the pairings. Lin will work well with you. Stay close to him."
Looking miffed, Masako walked away. Mai had to fight a grin. That's her boyfriend. He's putting Masako in her place in his own subtle way.
"Those stairs are steep." Ayako entered the base, Monk behind her. "Cameras are all put up and activated."
Mrs Shimizu came to stand just outside the room. "Breakfast is served. It's waiting for you in the main sitting room. Going forward, my cook will leave your meals in there three times a day. I hope you enjoy it."
Mai smiled. "Thank you, Mrs Shimizu. I'm sure it's delicious."
She smiled back at Mai. "You're terribly young for this line of work. But, I suppose everyone looks young to me."
Mrs Shimizu pat Mai's fake belly before walking away. Mai gave her a strange look.
"Finally, food!" Ayako rushed to be the first down the stairs. Everyone filed after her. In the sitting room, they found an array of popular Japanese breakfast dishes. Mai happily served herself. Sitting down next to Ayako, she dug in.
Monk looked at the large plate Ayako had made herself. "Eating for two?"
Ayako glared. "I will maim you if you keep it up."
Monk scooted away. "Just trying to lighten the mood."
Mai tried not to smile, not wanting to anger Ayako herself. In his own silly way, Monk really is trying to cheer her up. That his methods are incredibly tone deaf is precisely what makes him Monk.
Naru sat at the head of the table, near Mai. He'd selected a lighter array of foods. Normally, he doesn't seem to eat this early. Mai looked down at the silver bracelet on her wrist, smiling affectionately at it before looking back up at Naru. He glanced over at her and raised a brow, silently asking her what's on her mind. She shook her wrist. He nodded.
All too soon, the peace of the meal ended and it was back to work. Now that the base is set up, interviews with the staff need to be conducted. Mrs Shimizu went first, coming to sit at the table in the base. Mai took a seat near Naru with her laptop, ready to transcribe.
"The hauntings started six months ago, after some construction started on the edge of the property. I was having a gazebo put in, for guests to sit and look out over the garden. The workers dug up some bones."
"Have you found anything out about the bones?"
"I handed them off to the police. They told me they'd call if anything is found out. My family has owned this property for generations. I figured it could be an ancestor of mine in a poorly marked grave."
"When did the first haunting begin and what happened?"
"That very night. There was a young couple staying in one of our rooms. The wife...she was five months pregnant with their first child. I remember asking her about it. She seemed so happy. We were all asleep when it happened. We found her at the bottom of the stairs, bleeding something terrible. As the ambulance carted her away, I remember her shouting that she was pushed. Her husband was questioned, but she swears it wasn't him. She lost the baby."
Mai looked at Mrs Shimizu sadly. This is so heartbreaking.
"Did you make the connection?" Naru asked her.
"Not at first. I assumed it must've been a terrible accident. She was so panicked. I thought, perhaps she imagined being pushed when she tripped. I think I didn't want to acknowledge that there could be a dangerous individual in my onsen. The next time something happened was a month later. This guest was nearly due. Her screams alerted everyone that something was terribly wrong. She was a bloody mess in the upstairs hall. She was covered in bruises. The police investigated, but couldn't find enough evidence to charge anyone."
"No one saw what happened?"
"No. She said something invisible kept hitting her stomach. Claimed it felt like kicks. Obviously, this was no accident. Someone clearly attacked her. I went through the guest list, questioned my staff, to see if anyone saw someone acting suspiciously at any point. I even fired my staff and hired new ones, to make sure none of them were responsible. Sadly, it happened again. This woman was just a couple months. She's just found out the news and was at the onsen with her family to celebrate. She was attacked in her room. The last girl...she didn't even know she was pregnant. I saw this one happen."
"What did you see?"
It was a little late. The young lady was waiting to use the restroom. She seemed distressed by how long it was taking, so I offered her my private restroom in my room. On our way, something pushed her back and slammed her into the wall. It just kept...striking her over and over. I could only tell because of the way it shook her body. I screamed for help. By the time help came, it was gone. I rode with the girl to the hospital, where she found out the news."
Mrs Shimizu looked down at the table, tears in her eyes. Mai offered her a tissue from her purse. "That must've been so hard to witness."
She nodded. "It was...So many little lives lost before they even come into the world. I closed the onsen after that. It's been closed the last month, while I figure out what to do. Then I discovered your company, Mr Shibuya. I truly hope there's some way you can help me. Help all these victims by bringing some justice to this senseless situation."
Mrs Shimizu excused herself after that. Next, they interviewed the cook, then the maid. None had nearly the information Mrs Shimizu did. According to both of them, they've only been employed for a few months. After they left, Mai leaned back and stretched her arms. Resting them in front of her, she nearly startled when she hit the fake belly. She'd forgotten she's wearing it. It's so light. Not even a pillow's worth of heaviness.
With interviews out of the way, everyone broke into their respective groups and started walking through the rooms with EMF readers. Walking into one of the rooms with Naru, Mai admired the traditionally designed room. "This onsen seems like it should be such a wonderful place. It's terrible that this is happening."
Naru circled the room with the EMF reader before putting it in his pocket. "How are you feeling?"
Mai had gone to stand at the open window. This side overlooked the other half of the garden that wrapped around the onsen. She looked up at him. "Me?"
"Of course, you."
Mai thought about it before answering. "I feel...uneasy. I know Masako couldn't feel anything but I sense that won't remain the case. Something is here, Naru."
"Your abilities are getting stronger. They even rival Miss Hara's." Naru went to stand by Mai at the window.
"Really?"
"Despite no longer having my brother as a guide, you continue to improve. You're learning to navigate the astral plane on your own. You sense things, often, before anyone else. I'm not exaggerating when I say you're on your way to becoming a very powerful psychic."
Mai blushed, pleased. "You've never said anything that nice about my abilities."
Naru kept his eyes on the window. "I should say more often that I'm proud of you."
Her heart did a leap. Smiling, she leaned up and kissed his cheek. "I'm proud of you, too."
"Are we interrupting?" Ayako came into the room, Monk following her. "It's nearly lunch time."
Blushing again, Mai turned away from Naru. "We're done in here. The EMF reader didn't pick anything up."
"Same for us." Monk shrugged. "I guess we'll have to wait until sunset."
Heading downstairs, everyone had lunch. Later, as the sun finally set, everyone broke off, again, to check the rooms. On the way down the hall, Masako shivered. "I sense something has shifted."
Mai nodded. "It's like there's suddenly a film over everything. It makes me uneasy."
Naru took Mai's hand and led her into the room they'd checked earlier. Running the EMF reader, Naru furrowed his brows. "It's picking something up."
Mai stood on her toes and leaned over his shoulder to look. The red light kept going off at three second intervals. The counter jumped up around the center of the room, especially. Naru reached back to take Mai's hand, again, looking on guard.
Mai felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. She swallowed heavily. "It feels...like something is here. I don't like this."
Lin shouted. "Noll!"
Mai and Naru ran into the next room. They found Lin holding tightly onto Masako, shielding her as something grabbed at her kimono sleeve, trying to pull her away. Masako pointed with her caught arm. "There!"
Mai held up her hands in the positions for the nine cuts. She sent them into the wall, a safe distance from Masako. Whatever had hold of her dropped her sleeve. As soon as the strange energy started, it ended.
Lin carefully let go of Masako. "Is it gone?"
"I think so. I don't feel it, anymore." Mai looked around. "It tried to attack so quickly. We just got here."
"I suspect this is just a taste of what is to come." Naru wrapped a protective arm around Mai. "Let's get back to the base."
Everyone hurried back to base, all looking more than a little shook up. Kuroda looked terrified. "I couldn't see anything."
"Most spirits aren't necessarily visible." Mai told her. "The case at the Patsu house was a special circumstance."
"How will we fight something this violent that we can't see? None of the cases we've taken since last year's case have been this..."
"Scary?" Ayako shivered.
"Yeah." Kuroda wrapped her arms around herself, jostling the fake belly.
After that, no one knew whether to continue their search for the night. The EMF reader in the base picked up nothing. Naru started delegating tasks.
"Matsuzaki, create as many charms as you possibly can. Monk, put wards at every point of the base. Lin, keep your shiki ready. I want this room to be impenetrable."
Everyone hurried to their tasks. Helping Ayako with her charms, Mai made tea for everyone, next. By the time the base was charmed and warded well enough, it was close to midnight.
Ayako yawned. "The readers have picked up nothing since the spirit tried to attack Masako. Perhaps, it's time for bed."
Naru checked his watch. "I suppose, we have no choice. Let's set up the futons."
Opening the closet, everyone pulled the futons out and arranged them around the room. Mai set hers up near Ayako and Kuroda's. Naru, John and Lin set up on the other side of the room. Masako kept hers a bit away from everyone else's.
Mai sat on her futon. "Any word from Yasu about the history of the onsen?"
"Some." Naru checked his email on his tablet. "It was built in 1898, by the Shimizu family, to be a family home. It became an onsen in 1950. There's some deaths recorded on the property, but nothing that would explain the haunting. Just typical illness and old age."
"No more case talk for the night. I beg you." Ayako rolled over on her futon, looking exhausted.
Everyone chose to go to sleep after that. Mai passed out quickly, her fake belly removed and sitting next to her futon.
Mai looked around an ornately decorated room. Artwork hung on the walls, shelves of trinkets glittered around her. The wall directly in front of her held a mirror. She looked at her reflection, not recognizing it. The woman she saw was pale and tall, with long black hair and a doll face to rival Masako's. She wore a rich russet colored kimono with flowers embroidered on it. She smiled.
Behind her, the door to the room slid open. She watched his reflection as he stepped inside. He was young and, admittedly, handsome. Not as handsome as Naru, but a close contender. He smiled at her as he approached, coming to stand just behind her.
The man wrapped his arms around her. They felt warm and inviting. Turning her head to the side, she kissed him. As she did, she felt his hands travel down the length of her chest and stomach. It sent butterflies through her. He took her chin and turned it, to face the mirror. Letting go, he went back to touching her. He reached into her kimono to cup her breast, his fingers lightly teasing her nipple.
Mai tilted her head back, letting out a sigh, her eyes falling closed. The man turned her in his arms and kissed her, again. A heat traveled through her, settling in her hips. She shivered in desire. Just as the kiss broke, the dream faded.
Mai bolted up in her futon, her face covered in sweat. Taking some deep breaths, she looked around the dark base, finding everyone asleep. Her face turned as red as it ever has.
What...was that? Did she really just have a...she can't even say it! She buried her face in her hands, willing the mental images to go away. What in the hell!
She looked up in time to see Naru staring at her, his dark eyes piercing as he looked her over. Embarrassed, she fell back on her futon and pretended to be asleep. She refused to move for a long time. When she finally had the courage to check Naru's face, she saw his eyes were closed.