Disclaimer: Prison School belongs to its original creator Akira Hiramoto and the anime series J.C Staff. Shadowdream30 claims no ownership of anything save for any OCs, original scenes.

With only a few more days until May 7th, what plan does Gakuto have to distract the vice president? And with Matsuri, secrets began to leak as the boys became aware of Matsuri's past relationship with Yoshimiya. But is it all true? And what answers will Mari gain from going to Matsuri family? Let us continue…


-Prison Block-


The familiar jail cell door opens to reveal the Vice President, who was once more garbed in her sleepwear . Her tight yellow tank top hugged against her large, impressive bosom, revealing her nipples. And in her hug wrapping shorts.

"The stuff you guys wanted is here." She said as she set the box down on the table. "Do what you want with it." She said as she stepped away and was about to walk back over to the door.

The boys began to rummage through the collection of items they had written on their wish list. While not all of the items in the box they wished for were not inside the box, there were at least some things in there for them to use.

The glasses wearing boy hand managed to grab hold of the small mobile audio player. "Perfect. Now I can do my English listening." Gakuto said with a smirk.

"You're rather devoted to studying, aren't you Gakuto?" Kiyoshi said with a smile.

Gakuto pushed his glasses up with a small chuckle. "What are you implying? This item will be our….."

"Oh, right." Meiko grabbed their attention once more as she turned to face them. "About tomorrow's Information Special' class. It will be a combined class with the girls in the computer room."

And from those sentences, this immediately caught the boy's attention. They all wore the same look on their faces. With the exception of Gakuto who continued to wear a smirk on his face. While all of the other boys donned a blush on their cheeks.

Meiko crossed her hand under her bosom as she gave the boys a hard look. "Personally I don't like the idea of leaving you boys with the girls. But this prison does not have computers here. Behave yourself." She said as she finally took her leave.

Once she was gone, the boys cheered amongst themselves. They finally get their chance to be in a combined room filled with girls.

"AWESOME!" Shingo cheered.

"TOGETHER WITH THE GIRL CLASS! THIS IS GONNA BE THE BEST DAY EVER!"

"*Cough* FEMALES! *Cough*"

While the three boys were excited. Kiyoshi turned to Gakuto, just as happy as his friends. "We're together with the girls Gakuto!"

Gakuto did not cheer nor say anything, but just chuckled to himself with his continued smirk. "Just as I predicted."

"Huh? What do you mean?" Kiyoshi's smile was replaced with a confused tone, looking at his partner in crime.

Gakuto looked over his shoulders and faced Kiyoshi. In his hand, he waved his mobile audio player.

"I have a plan."


-Boy's Dormitory-


"I'm sorry. Y-You want to do what?" Matsuri asked his friend who was on the phone once more. Video chatting.

Etsuko had her usual smile on her face. "I was wondering if I could base my story off of you!"

Matsuri just had a deep crimson blush upon his cheeks. Base a story off of his life!? Just what is she planning to do!? Although he could take a wild guess. For the most part, if he could take any notes on this girl, there is no stopping her imagination.

"I'm huh….g-gonna a wild guess, but does this have to do with…..um…..your romance story between me and Meiko, does it?" He said with a few stutters. He began to mess the strands of his hair, his eyes fluttering from one side to his side.

"Of course it is!"

This just made Matsuri rather more uncomfortable. He didn't know how he felt about someone using him as some inspiration. Not that he didn't mind, but his real problem was that there was nothing unique about him. He's just some boring normal boy who just happens to be thrown into a chaotic situation.

Another thing that bothered him was his secret…admiration towards Meiko. He didn't want everyone to know. Especially Mari, who at this point still does not trust him.

Matsuri sighed to himself. "H-Hey, mind if I ask?" He said, catching his attention. "W-Why base a story off of me? I'm sure that there are plenty of other students here who are way more interesting than me. Perhaps one of the council, heck maybe the boys."

"No way." She said with a huff. Pointing her nose in the air. "The boys aren't bad people, but they can be creeps sometimes. I would ask Mari to be a protagonist, but…I'm kind of scared to ask her." She said with a nervous laugh. "I've taken some consideration and I wanted my protagonist to be based off of you."

"I-I don't know…t-there's really isn't anything special about me, I guess."

"Of course there is. You're practically one of the few normal students here in this school. And your situation makes for a promising scenario."

"What do you mean?"

"Well think about it, a normal boy who transferred to a school, hoping for a normal life. But then all of the sudden, his five friends did something stupid and they end up in prison by the evil clutches of the underground councils! With his friends in danger, the poor boy must rise to the challenge and fight against the evil USC and survive the school!"

"...that…..actually sounds promising. But huh….it sounds more like a shounen story than a romance story?" Matsuri said with a chuckle.

"W-Well….it's uh…..a bit in the rough works. I still gotta find something to land on really."

"They say that writing a story isn't easy."

"It gets better! During the story, the protagonist falls in love with the USC vice president!"

"HUH!?"

"Don't play dumb! It's painfully obvious that you love Meiko! And I bet you that Meiko feels the same way~." She said with a playful grin, giving the boy the knowing look.

Matsuri just flinched at the thought. An immediate thought of Meiko bending over, her face near his. Giving him enough view of her impressive valley of her bosom. Her pink pillowy lips smacked against each other, making out a word towards the boy.

Matsuri.

The boy violently shook his head of those disturbing, yet arousing thoughts. "Damn it Etsuko! It's not l-love at all!"

"You're in denial again."

Matsuri groaned to himself as he propped his cheeks onto the palm of his hand and faced the other way with a fierce blush. He really did not want to argue with her about his…admiration for Meiko.

"Come on, don't be mad."

"Not mad…..just annoyed."

"Okay, fine. I'll leave it alone. But still, what do you think?"

Matsuri sighed to himself. At least she was asking. "It is a good story and all…..fine…..I guess you can. Just please don't share this with anyone else…..at least without my permission."

"Okay~!" Etsuko said with a salute and her usual goofy grin.

The boy made a small smile. Glad that he was able to reason with her. He really appreciates Etsuko. Sometimes her imagination can run wild, but that's just her quirk. Strangely enough, he felt lucky that he became friends with her. In fact, she was one of the first females that he was able to be friends with in this school. Granted that he has interacted with the USC, but he has not been on best terms with them…..for the most part.

He knows that he was tasked to become friends with Mari by the chairman. His tasks so far have not fared too well. And both Mari and the boys were making this more difficult than it needed to be. Mari for her part, was very obsessive on trying to throw him in prison with the boys. Proving that he was the same as them, carries the same mindset. There are times when he wants to just quit, but he wants to remain optimistic about the girls.

Then there were the boys, they have proven to be much of a hassle as well. He wouldn't lie, he does feel sorry for them. Being thrown in prison for peeping on the girls, a bit extreme, but they should know better than trying to peep on the girls. Not to mention, they're kind of creeps. It disturbs him how obsessive they are with trying to catch many flashes or shots of girls' underwear, cleavage shots, or even try to accidentally touch them. It was just wrong and he felt they shouldn't do this.

"Matsuri…."

"Huh?" His thoughts were interrupted by the small first year.

"I was wondering what you were going to do about the operation breakout."

"...oh…" Matsuri expression fell. Just the thought of the operation made him feel sick. He knew that he agreed not to rat out Kiyoshi in the first place, but now that he has agreed to help out the boys due to Gakuto's convincing speech. But honestly, it just feels like he's just betraying the president's trust.

"Matsuri?" Etsuko titled her head with a worried look. Grabbing his attention. "You okay?"

"...um…..n-no…..not really." He said. "From tomorrow onward, we'll only have 4 days until May 7th. The more I think about it…I don't know…..I just feel sick to my stomach just thinking about it." He said as he gripped his chest.

"Matsuri….." She said with an uncharacteristically concerned voice.

"I feel like I-I'm finally getting t-through t-to her. I want to t-tell the boys what I'm doing. If I do tell them then they will stop their operation. But if….if that happens…..what if Mari changes her mind at the last minute…then Kiyoshi wouldn't go on his date…and Chiyo will be sad, she'll f-f-feel betrayed….." Matsuri was starting to tremble on the spot.

"Not only that…..Kiyoshi and Gakuto will be mad at me…I…..I…"

"Matsuri!" The boy stopped in his tracks. His trembling seized as he looked at his friend with a stern look. "How could you say that! You don't know what's gonna happen unless you say something!"

"...I…..I know…..but I can't help but to….." He really felt awful thinking about these sorts of thoughts. But he cannot shake that feeling off. He wanted to believe in Etsuko's words, but his negative thoughts kept interfering. His mind is continuously being plagued with dark thoughts.

He started to tremble once more. "I really want to be optimistic a-and all…..but if something like that happens…..then…I don't want to run away from this…..I don't want to r-runaway again."

"Again…"

Matsuri makes a sharp gasp while shaking his head. "N-Nothing. Nevermind…..I'll just continue doing what I-I can do. And hopefully the boys w-won't get into trouble." He said with a shaky determined voice.

Etsuko however, was not so easily convinced. She could tell that the boy was not confident about this whole ideal…..she hated seeing him like this. The girl took a moment or so to her own thoughts before looking back at her friend.

"Okay. Just try not to overdo it, okay?"

"R-Right…..thanks Etsuko."

The first year went back to her smile. "Okay! I'm gonna go to bed now! Oh right! After you come back from your sister's birthday party, can you save a piece of cake for me?"

The boy just cracked a small chuckle. "Okay, I'll make sure you get one."

"Yay! Well then! Good night!" She said with one final salute and ended the video.

Matsuri was left to himself once more. He set the phone aside and just layed down on his back. Free to think about anything to himself. His mind goes back to their conversation about the boy's operation that will occur on May 7th. How badly that he wishes to have Meiko's confidence and tell the boys of what he is currently doing. But he couldn't help but to think of what might happen if he does tell the boys.

Like he mentioned before, Mari may end up changing her mind at the last minute. And she will possibly just take it away from them because of her belief in men. Kiyoshi would be angry with him, for even trusting him in the first place. And Gakuto would fall on the same boat as Kiyoshi, but shout at him for completely destroying their dreams and future.

"Now that I think about it…didn't I already ruin their future in the place…if I stopped them from the very beginning…..none of this would've happened."

"Did you even try to persuade them to seize their action? You have failed to speak up against their actions or even stop them from performing such a disgusting act! How do you justify that?!"

Those words from the president came back to haunt him. He placed his hand over his face before he ran it through his messy brown hair. He drew a long breath to himself.

"Is this…is this really my fault."

It is.

He shook his head. He didn't need to think about this. Not right now. He got up from his bed and went towards the light to switch it off. He was calling in for the day. He needed to be mentally prepared for tomorrow. With Mari visiting his family for his little sister's birthday, his parents didn't need to see what he was feeling at this very moment, nor did he want anyone else seeing.

As he switched off the lights, he walked back over to his bed and laid back down on his bed. His eyes look onward towards his empty desk. His thoughts were still roaming through his head. The boy could not help but to be reminded of his failure to not assert himself against the boy's action. Then they would have had a peaceful life.

Before he knew it, a familiar dark musky mist swirled around his room, covering the walls. Swallowing all of the room interior designs, the closet, the book shelf, his desk and books and many until everything went into the darkness.

It's your fault.

The unknown voice whispered through his head. Matsuri just trembled in fear. A small whimper escaped from his lips.

The boys would have enjoyed a peaceful life if you just spoke up.

"No…"

But you ran. You ranaway. Now they must pay the price. Just like how Yoshimiya did.

Matsuri just grabs his covers and throws the blankets over his whole body. He truly wanted to be brave and tell the truth. He wanted to help the boys. But no matter what he tries, he'll always be haunted by his own failure.


-Hana's Room-


Hana was laying on her bed, facing the ceiling. Her hair was scattered on the pillow, her eyes had a thousand yard stare as she was practically looking at nothing. Hana blanket partly covered her body as most of it was thrown off of her. Her mind was being preoccupied by many thoughts.

More particularly her mind was on a certain blue-haired boy. Her little incident with Kiyoshi had her mind boggled all over the place. She remembered clearly what happened that day.

She granted Kiyoshi permission to use the bathroom, and she followed him towards the bathroom. Of course, she recalled that Kiyoshi tried to trap himself in the bathroom stall and she jumped over the door to get into the stall with him. Both of them were alone, contained in one small space.

She remembered the feeling she experienced throughout that event. It was strange to her. But for some odd reason…..it strangely aroused her.

She was unzipping his pants, she was heavily breathing. Her heart was thumping fast against her chest. Hana would've gotten a chance to finally see Kiyoshi mushroom…..only for Kiyoshi to thrash around and knock her off her feet. And out of pure accident…Kiyoshi let go.

Her mind was interrupted when she heard a knock on her door. The blonde hair girl shook her head violently before she slapped her cheeks with both of her hands. She needed to get a grip.

Hana throws the blankets off her body as she jumps off the bed and lands on the floor. She carefully walks over to the door to see who it was at this hour. Once she opens the door, it is revealed to be Mari.

"O-Oh. Hi Mari!" Hana said with an attempted smile.

"Good evening Hana," Mari said as she bowed her head. "I was just checking up on you to see how you were doing."

"O-Oh…..um…..I'm recovering and all…..just still a little unwell…..but I'm doing fine."

"That's good to hear…..so when you'll be coming back."

"Shouldn't be too long. Don't worry President…..I'll be back soon. Is everything fine?"

Mari pondered for a bit. A Lot of things happened during Hana's absence. Not really with the boys, but more with Matsuri. Mari has been continuing her investigation with the boy's previous life before he transferred to Hachimitsu Academy.

"Mind if I come in…there's a lot I need to talk about concerning Hitoyoshi."

Hana's eyes widened, she had almost forgotten about their little so-called 'innocent' male member of the council. Without a word, Hana stepped aside, allowing Mari inside.


Mari has explained to Hana of the previous events that have occurred. It started on the same day with the incident with her and Kiyoshi.

Mari told her that she had interrogated Matsuri about his previous life at his old school. She told not just him, but with the other girls as well. However, she was expecting Matsuri to strongly deny or come up with some lie to cover his trail. But what she got instead, and something that Hana wasn't expecting as well. Was completely different.

"He…broke down."

"I'm afraid so." Mari bit her lips.

"...I…..I don't know what to say…..I wasn't expecting him to break down like that…." Hana couldn't really believe it herself, but from what Mari had said, it was true.

"He did…and to be honest…I couldn't help but to feel…guilty."

"I-I mean! It's not like you didn't know! W-Who knows, he could've been faking his panic attack."

"...I want to believe it too Hana. But his reaction…it was too real to be a fake…." Mari gripped her hand at the thought of Matsuri's terrified face. "Perhaps…..I was too rash on jumping to conclusions….."

"So what now…..him having a panic attack cleared up some bits I guess. But he's still a suspect on Yoshimiya."

"Yes," Mari shook her head. Shoving those memories aside and looking at Hana. "Which brings me up to another point. Tomorrow, I will be attending his little sister's birthday party."

"Really!?" Hana said with a surprised look on her face. "How come!?"

Mari sighs to herself. "I don't like the idea either…..but father insisted on me going. Claiming it will give me a better impression of Hitoyoshi." She said with an annoyed tone.

Mari didn't like the idea of going to meet the family of the same boy whom she was trying to throw in prison. No matter what her dad or sister try to say to her, Mari would always hold her views on males as trash.

"But…..this could be an opportunity," Mari smirked. "I could use this as an advantage and get the information from his father. If I recall from my father's email exchange with Hitoyoshi's father, Kenchiro could have the answer."

"And if he doesn't."

"Then I'll just continue my investigation with other means."

"...well. Whatever the case is, I know you'll get the answer."

"Thank you Hana. Get well soon." Mari said as she got up from the chair and bowed before she took her leave.

As Mari was heading for the door, Hana was pondering for a moment. Her eyes looked at her own feet before she looked up. "Hey Mari."

"Yes?" Mari said as she looked over her shoulder.

"...um…..I don't know if this helps or not but. Before the incident, I noticed that Hitoyoshi had his eyes on Meiko for a while."

Mari narrowed her eyes. This grabbed her attention. "Really now…..care to elaborate."


-Outside of the School-


May 3rd (4 Days until Operation Breakout)

3:00pm

This scenario just felt all too familiar to the poor boy. Matsuri ran his hand through his hair, letting out a breath. He was back into his casual clothing, which consisted of his jacket and jeans. In his hand, he was carrying a bag. The bag was shaped like a box.

If anything, Matsuri was incredibly nervous about today. He didn't know what to do or even think at all. All he could really think in his mind is not screw up and risk yourself getting thrown into jail. But his worst fear would have to be his family. He's not worried about his dad or mom making an embarrassment of himself. But his worst fear is his little sister.

He still remembered the other day when she was interrogating him on whether or not he has a girlfriend or if he has a crush on a girl at the school.

"No doubt that she will mistake Mari as my girlfriend….." He thought to himself with a fierce blush. He really wished that it wouldn't come to that. She didn't need to know.

"Hello Hitoyoshi."

"Eep!" He yelped. He quickly turned his head around and found Mari looking at him with her usual glare.

He clutched his chest with his hand and exhaled some air of relief.

"H-Hello, Madam P-President."

Mari closed her eyes. Inhaling air around her before she spoke. "Since we are going to your family…..I will allow you to call me by my name."

"R-Really?"

"Yes. But just for today. After we come back from your sister's birthday, you will address me as 'Madam President', understand?"

"Y-Yes." He nodded his head quickly and retreated back to his original position.

If he wasn't already nervous, then this was taking it to a new level. With the council president waiting next to him. He really didn't want to risk anything around the president, especially if she's still aiming to find any excuses or inappropriate actions to throw him in prison with the other boys. But given the time frame, he possibly won't have to worry about it since the boys will be released next week.

The boy's eyes wandered over to the girl standing by him. He took notice of the clothing she was wearing, while it wasn't anything as arousing or sexy as her last outfit she wore to seduce him yesterday, this one was more tame. She wore a black coat that was open and revealed her black sweater that she wore underneath. Going along with the theme, she wore black jeans with high heels to top it off.

"Black really does suit her….." He thought to himself as his eyes were traveling down and up her form.

But as his eyes met her upper body, he immediately flinched when he noticed her blue ice stare right through him.

She narrowed her eyes on the boy. "Care to explain why you're looking at me like that?" She asked with a questioning tone. Giving him the look of 'I caught you staring. So don't try to run away from this'.

Matsuri fidgeted, his eyes trying to look at anything else that wasn't Mari. "I-It's nothing perverted or anything…..I um…I'm just used to seeing you in your uniform."

"Well, that is to be expected. After all, you do only see me and others wearing our respective uniforms instead of our casual clothings."

"A-Also…..I notice your theme too…it really…..suits you…." He said, trying not to stumble on his words.

"Thank you," She said as she moved her hand to her hair and flipped off her shoulders. "I had Hana help out with it."

"R-Really….i-is she feeling better?"

"She's still recovering, but I did meet her last night. I did some recap with her on the current situation at the moment." Mari didn't notice, but Matsuri flinched at her statement. "I was a little worried about leaving just you and Meiko to be honest, but with Etsuko's help, it does put some ease to mind. Hana should be coming back soon."

"T-That's nice….." He said with a stutter. Nothing against Hana, but she was the last person he wanted back. Especially since she might be aware of his interest in the vice president. "Um….was t-that all?"

Mari opened her eyes and looked at the boy. Giving him a once again questioning stare. "What do you mean?"

"Huh? Oh! Umm…well….." He was once again stumbling on his words. He didn't want to reveal it. Or more of just give her an idea of his slight interest in Meiko. No doubt that she will take that as a possible threat to her friend's safety.

"Umm…..n-nevermind. Forget I said anything." He said as he quickly shifted his head the other way.

Mari's eyes still gave him the look, she truly is trying to understand this boy. Particularly trying to prove that he is no innocent and honorable boy that her father and sister tried to paint him as, but she knew better than to believe their words. She believes that he is just painting himself as such so he could get the jump on them or any of the other female students in the school. Heck, he could go further by getting the staff members.

But for now, since she is going to go meet with his family, she's been thinking about this for a while since yesterday and today, she's planning on getting more information about Yoshimiya.

"Perhaps I could get some answer from his father about Yoshimiya…..someone is bound to know something." She thought to herself. "My attempt to reveal the truth about Yoshimiya was a failure because I had no hard concrete evidence. So I should take advantage of this rare opportunity and ask for more information." Mari thought to herself.

Her thoughts were interrupted when a car came driving towards the entrance of the school. The red hot car sleek cabriolet drove up to the entrance. In an instance, it screeched to a stop. The sound of the tire made Matsuri flinch while Mari raised an eyebrow.

The female in the driver seat looked around in her early 20s. She had shoulder-length black hair with ends of her strands dyed red, tied into a ponytail. She wore an open button collar jacket that revealed her white shirt underneath along with her blue jeans.

Matsuri's eyes scrunched at the woman, as if he tried to look at her for an answer. It didn't take long before the young woman in the driver seat stood from her seat and lifted her glasses, revealing her brown eyes.

"YO! What's up little baby brother!" She said with a cheery voice.

"Huh!? Onee-san!?" He flinched at the young woman who was revealed to be his older sister!

"Onee-san?" Mari repeated as she looked at the boy with a questioning look.

The woman jumps out from her car and runs towards the baffled boy. Before Matsuri could even react, his head was shoved into the woman's ample bust. Despite the boy's embarrassment, the woman had a huge smile on her face.

"Look at you all grown up! I haven't seen you in forever since you were still in your diapers!" She said with a teasing tone, enjoying the boy being trapped in her bosom.

"Gak! ONEE-SAN! WOULD YOU PLEASE STOP! AND WHAT DO YOU MEAN SINCE I WAS IN DIAPERS! YOU LEFT FOR COLLEGE WHEN I WAS IN MIDDLE SCHOOL!" He bursted from her sister's trap as she ignored his pleas as she set her hand on top of his head and shoved him back between her breasts.

"Aww~. No need to be shy. I'm just saying hi to my favorite baby brother." She continued to tease him.

Matsuri's face turned crimson red. His eyes looked over his shoulders, he looked straight at Mari who was looking at the scene with a baffled look. He whimpered in his sister's grasp.

"ONEE-SAN PLEASE! NOT IN FRONT OF M-MY FRIEND HERE!"

"Oh~? Friend?" Her eyes open to look straight at the baffled girl who shrunk a little at her gaze.

The older sister let go of her brother who began to try and catch his breath, she approached the council president. As soon as she was within range of her. Mari stood her ground, staring at the rather intimidating older sister. If her getting up didn't make her more intimidating that is.

Matsuri's sister continued to stare at her with a narrowed look. Her eyes scanned from the bottom of Mari black shoes all the way up to her face. Giving her a full inspection.

It wasn't long until she smiled to herself. And turned around to face Matsuri. "Well now, I didn't know my baby little brother knew how to pick a woman~."

"HUH!?" Matsuri's voice cracked as he looked at his sister with a shocked look.

A small blush appeared on Mari's cheeks, equally emabassrsed by his sister's implication. The nerves! She is his girlfriend!? What absurd nonsense was that!?

"S-SHE'S NOT MY GIRLFRIEND!"

"Oh~. Are you sure~?"

"Y-YES! I'M POSITIVE! SHE'S JUST A FRIEND FROM SCHOOL!"

The sister laughed at her brother's reaction before waving her hand at the boy. "Relax Matsuri, I know all about her."

"Huh?"

She faced the girl once more. "You're the council president of this school right, Mari Kurihara?"

"Um…..well technically speaking president of the Underground council, but y-yes. I am." She said as she straightened back up.

"Dad told me about you and Matsuri's little situation." She said, Somewhere in that tone Mari could hint at a rather grave tone in her voice. But decided not to question it. The sister extended her hand towards Mari. "My name is Ayame Hitoyoshi. I'm Matsuri's older sister. Nice to finally meet you…Mari."

There was something wrong with this woman. She seems friendly and all. But it seems like there was something else to her that striked her the wrong way. But for now, she would just have to go along with the greeting.

"It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Ayame Hitoyoshi."

"H-Hey, Onee-san," Matsuri grabbed his sister's attention. "Why are you here? I thought mom was picking us up?"

"Really, she didn't tell ya?" She said with a mocking look appeared once more. "Good, she kept her promise."

"I-I'm sorry, what?"

Ayame walked over to Matsuri with smugness on her face. Once she was within range, she pinched his cheeks. She continued to give him the smug.

"I told mom not to say anything. I just wanted to surprise my cute little sister."

Matsuri's mouth gaped open. SISTER!? "I'M A BOY!"

"Oh, don't be so modest. Or are you jealous that you don't have these babies." She said as she crossed her arm under her bosom, giving them a boost up, just for Matsuri to see.

The boy's face just grew even more red, he puffed his cheeks, his face screamed rage as he looked at his sister with an outraged face. Before he could even lose his temper, he took a deep breath and exhaled all of the steam from his body before he could open his eyes and look at the smug girl in front of him.

"Can we please go?"

"Oh alright." She said as she walked around her brother and towards the driver seat.

Matsuri just sighed to himself. They haven't even been to his little sister's party and he was already tired and embarrassed. This was the worst.

"Well now…." Mari walked over to the boy. "Your sister is rather…..interesting."

The boy just scratched the back of his head as he looked the other way. "Sorry about that….my sister is nice but she can be rather…..a bit much."

"I wouldn't worry much about it. Anyways….shall we go then."

"Yeah….just not ready honestly."


-At the Hitoyoshi Family Residence-


It took them several minutes or so as they drove down the street. The two rode in the back of Ayame's cabriolet car. With the car hood open, Matsuri just let the wind splash on his face. Washing away all of his worries.

But that still didn't help with him as he still had to worry about the boy's operation breakout. The worst of it is that Mari still has no clue that he is helping the boys out with their plan.

Matsuri's eyes looked over to the side of him as he looked over and spotted Mari whose hand was prompted under her chin, her legs crossed over the other. The wind picked up bits and pieces of her hair strands, allowing the wind to carry it past her as they drove down the street.

His eyes just downcast as he looked the other way. He gripped his chest with a tremble in his hand.

She doesn't know.

Matsuri shook his head violently. Trying his best to shake the negative thoughts out of his head. No one needed to see him like this. Especially at his sister's birthday party.

Mari was on the other side of the seat next to him. Her face was looking out the other way, she was all but minding her own business. But she was of course, thinking of how to approach the father or even get answers from him.

"I need to gather more clues if I want to know more about Yoshimiya…..my first attempt failed because of my shortcomings…but this time…I'm gonna gather more information and hopefully ask Matsuri properly the moment I have enough. Right now, I need to find the best approach to ask his father."

"We're here." Ayame said with a cherry voice.

The group looked to their left as they spotted the house that was coming into view. It was a rather normal looking house. It was big, but it was a normal looking house. The brown building was at least two stories high, it had tables and chairs in front of the porch. There was a shade above the door. Surrounding the house was a brown brick wall that stood at least 3 inch high, so anyone who stood from the other side could still see over. And blocking the front was a black gate.

Matsuri looked at the house, even though it's been only a month, he still felt homesick. Just by looking at the house, he had a small smile on his face.

"I'm home….."

"Hitoyoshi…."

Matsuri looked back at the president who was looking at him with her usual glare, but this glare was rather more soft.

"Y-Yeah…"

"Nothing, it's just that you had a look on your face."

"Sorry…..I guess I'm just a little homesick that's all. It's only been a month, but I'm glad that I was able to come back home." He said with a small smile.

Mari raised an eyebrow, well for the most part, she shouldn't be too surprise by why this boy would be homesick, it has been a month since he have been away from home, he's been cooped up at Hachimitsu Academy for a while…..and the way how things been going for him lately, he wouldn't blame him for feeling homesick.

Their conversation was interrupted when Ayame grabbed hold of Matsuri in choke hold, but not too much to actually choke him.

"Alright, alright! Enough with the drama. Let's put that cake inside before Ritsu yells at you for being late!" She said with a cheery grin on her face before she let go of her brother and rushed inside to greet her family.

"Right…..shall we then?" He asked Mari.

"Yes. And remember, when we're here, I want to address myself as Mari. I don't want your parents to misunderstand the situation."

"It's…..It's gonna be a bit weird honestly, but okay…."


-Inside the Hitoyoshi Residence-


Matsuri opens the door to the inside of the house. Before he could walk on the floor, he took off his shoes and set them on the floor. He then walks inside.

"I'm home." He calls out.

Mari followed suit as she took off her shoes and set them next to a pair of other shoes which she would assume to be Matsuri families. Before the teen could go further, she took note of the picture frame that stood on the small table that stood in the entrance hallway. She looked at the photo as it contained the picture of his family.

Her eyes caught right in the middle where Matsuri was standing in the middle of the family. With two other girls around him. The girl to the left had a familiar black and dyed red hair with a ponytail tied on top of her head. Ayame had her arms around her brother's neck and her other arm gave a peace sign to the camera.

The smaller girl had a similar hair color scheme as her older sister except it was smaller and the front of her hair strand was dyed red. She assumed that this was the birthday girl. The girl was on top of the boy's shoulders as she was giving her brother make believe bunny ears with a huge grin on her face.

The two adults behind the three were possibly the parents for Matsuri, Ayame, and Ritsu. Her eyes caught their mother looking to be in her late 20s. She wore a black sweatshirt with brown pants.

Her eyes go over to the man to the left of her side. The man looked like an older version of Matsuri, but with more of a mascline side than their son. He had puffy brown short hair that was messy like Matsuri. A distinguishing feature that she noticed that the father had unlike the son, aside from the more mascline side, was his more calm and carefree side.

"The father I suppose…."

"Ah! Matsuri!"

Her thoughts are interrupted when she hears another voice inside the house. She walked down the hallway and looked inside one of the rooms. When she walks inside, she spotted Matsuri, who was currently being smothered by his mother.

The older woman had her hands wrapped around Matsuri's head, pulling him between her ample bust. The poor boy struggled to free himself from his mother's clutches as she continuously hugged him.

"MOM! COME ON LET ME GO!" Matsuri pleaded with half of his face emerging from his mother's ample bust.

"Just a minute~!" She said as she continuously hugged her son with a carefree smile on her face. She really was just enjoying seeing her son once more.

"M-MOM! COME ON! AT LEAST NOT IN FRONT HER P-PLEASE!"

"Hmm?" Her eyes opened up before she looked to the doorway.

Mari had a surprise look on her face. She straightens her back, feeling a little out of place with people she is unfamiliar with. But she remained strong.

Matsuri's mother let's go of her son go with a small blush on her face. Nearly forgetting herself for a moment, not realizing that they had a guest today. She dusted her hands off of her apron and gave the teenage girl a smile.

"You must be Mari Kurihara, right?" She said with an embarrassed smile.

"U-Um…y-yes." She said as she cleared her throat. "I am Mari Kurihara. I'm the president of the USC of Hatchimitsu Academy." She said as she bowed her head at the boy's mother.

The mother gave a warm smile as she returned the bow. "Good to finally meet you. I'm Akari Hitoyoshi. I'm Matsuri's mother." She introduced herself before she raised her head back up. "I'm sorry you had to come so suddenly. It must have been a shock to you."

Mari's eyes fluttered the other way with an embarrassed body language to her posture. "W-Well…..I will admit I wasn't expecting my father to drop the news on me so suddenly. So, I'm sorry to have come here so suddenly."

Before Akari could say anything, Ayame came into the room suddenly as she wrapped her hand around Mari's neck. Surprising the teen all of the sudden as she flinched from the sudden contact.

"Aw! Come on, don't be so shy now! Anyone who's friends with my baby brother is a friend of mine!" She said with a cheery tone. However, somewhere in her words she seems to have emphasized the word 'friends'. It made Mari rather…..uneasy about her rather strange behavior.

Matsuri had an uneasy look on his face, he was feeling uneasy about his sister getting too close in physical contact with the rather fearsome president.

Akari had a stern look on her face towards the older sister. "Ayame! Behave yourself!" She said with her hands set on her hips.

"Come on, I'm just giving our council president here a warm welcome." She said as she playfully tugged on Mari.

Before she could embarrass Mari even further, she was struck against the head by a newspaper. The contact was strong enough as a huge smack could be heard across the house.

"Okay Ayame, that's enough." The father said as he gave Ayame a stern look.

The young adult woman just stuck her tongue out at the older version of Matsuri. "You didn't have to hit me like that. Fine…." She said in defeat as she unwrapped her hand around Mari's neck.

"Sorry about that, she can be a bit much but she's not a bad person." He said, giving Mari a warm smile. "Your Usano daughter, right?"

Mari lets out a small gasp as her eyes widen with a surprise look. "Um…y-yes." She said with a bit of a stutter as she turned to look at him. "Thank you for having me Mr. Hitoyoshi."

"Oh none of that now. Just call me Kenchiro."

"IS ONII-SAN HERE!?"

A small young girl's voice ranged out from upstairs. From their position, they could hear rummaging coming from upstairs. Footsteps running along the floor, a door slams wide open as the sounds of steps dashed down the stairs.

Rushing down the stairs with a wide smile on her face. Almost falling on herself, before she grabbed onto the walls to support her balance. She goes back to running towards the gathering room within the kitchen area. The small girl rushes inside with a smile as she jumps towards whom she believed was her brother.

"ONII-SAN!" She screams only for her excitement to stop when she runs right into Mari's legs, almost pushing her off her balance with the amount of force she put into her hug.

"Oh." Mari said as she looked down at the small girl who was rubbing her nose with a groan. "My apologies. I didn't mean to be in your way."

Ritsu opened her eyes to see who was in her way, only for her to stare at Mari with widened eyes. To the small girl, she was absolutely beautiful. Ritsu's eyes started at the bottom of Mari's shoes and traveled all the way up to her torso. She took a note of her clothing that consisted of a theme of black. From her black coat and sweater that was underneath. All of it fit alongside her black pants. It made her look mysterious yet it truly did fit her.

The small girl's eyes sparkled at the very sight of the teen who stared at her with concern, hoping that she didn't harm her in any way possible.

"Ritsu dear, it's rude to stare at people. Say hello." Akari said, wondering why she was just staring at Mari.

"ARE YOU MY BROTHER'S GIRLFRIEND!?"

And there it was. Immediately almost everyone in the room had a different reaction. Kenchiro just wore a knowing nervous chuckle. He figured that she was going to say something like that. The loud one in the room was Ayame who didn't even try to hold her laughter in. She began to hold her sides and began to crouch to the floor, with her hand holding onto the table to support her. Akari ran her hand over her face with a sigh. She expected much, but she wasn't anticipating it to be this soon.

The most embarrassed one's in the room were Matsuri and Mari. Matsuri suffered the most as he just stood there. The color of his face was completely crimson red, losing all sorts of paleness to his skin tone. He anticipated that his little sister was going to ask that, but it still embarrassed him.

Mari was almost similar to Matsuri, her eyes just had a thousand yard stare, not looking at anything in particular, but just couldn't think straight from the sudden question. A blush crept on her face as part of her hair strands fell between her eyes.

Taking a few moments to recollect herself, she shook her head and fixed her hair, putting it back in place. Once she finally cleaned herself up, she gave the younger sister a stare with her hands under her ample bust.

"I-I'm sorry, but I'm not your brother's girlfriend." She said with a bit of a stutter.

"HUH!? SERIOUSLY!?" Ritsu said, her expression changed from being an excited little girl to someone who got disappointed from the presents they received. "Are you sure?" She said giving Mari the puppy look.

Mari just looked at the girl with a small blush. Why was this girl so fixated on her brother finding a girlfriend? Just from looking at her and his older sister, she could possibly see why Matsuri is rather shy from the constant teasing from both of the girls.

"Yes. I am positive."

"AWW!" Ritsu deflated in defeat before giving her brother a stern look. "MATSURI YOU LOSER!"

The boy just groaned at his little sister. "Well, excuse me for not getting one."

Ritsu puffed her cheeks staring at her brother with an angry look. She really was looking forward to seeing her brother's girlfriend or at least someone he has a crush on. Or something! That school is filled with such pretty girls and there was a pretty girl right here!

She crossed her arms and looked the other way with a pout. "You're no fun!"

Akari just sighed to herself before she clapped her hand together. "Alright now, that's enough." She said as she gathered their attention. "Now then, since we're here. Matsuri, did you bring the cake?"

"Oh! Y-Yeah! I was able to make it in one of the cooking labs."

"You made the cake!?" Ritsu said with a once again hopeful look on her face. Her expression changed to that of a happy child! She immediately ran towards her brother with sparkles in her eyes, looking at the bag that had the cake. "What flavor is it!?"

"Hold on there birthday girl," Akari said as she stopped her from even taking a peek. "Go put on that dress that we got for you the other day."

"Aww! Oh okay," She said, before she could run towards her room, she stopped and looked at Mari with once again sparkles in her eyes. "Hey! Hey! You wanna help me?"

"Huh?" Mari said with a confused look.

"Ritsu….." Matsuri gently scolds his sister. He really didn't want his sister to bother Mari, especially does not want them to be alone.

"No. It's alright," Mari said as she looked at Matsuri before she turned to look at Akari. "If that is alright, I would like to help her."

"Oh," Akari tilted her head at the president. "Are you sure? I don't want her to be a bother."

"No. It's fine. I can help her."

"Please mom! I wanna know more about her." Ritsu said once again giving her the puppy look.

Akari sighed to herself. This girl, not even a minute or so before Mari came over and now she wants to get to know more about Mari. "Oh alright. But behave yourself, okay? She's still our special guest."

"Thank you mom!" She said as she went and grabbed Mari's hands and dragged her along. "Come on, come on!" The ever excited girl said as she pulled Mari along towards the stairs and went up the stairs.

Matsuri could just look onward with a nervous expression. He knows that Mari wouldn't dare hurt Ritsu or anything, but his most concern was Ritsu attacking her with many questions, more particularly if he has an interest in any girls at the school.

The moment thought of Meiko came to his mind, he shook his head with a violent blush on his face.

"U-Umm….mom! Should we get the cake ready?"

"Okay dear. Kenchiro, could you set up the plates on the table?"

The father nodded his head as he went over towards the kitchen to grab the plates, meanwhile Matsuri and Akari went to the counter to prepare the cake for the day. Meanwhile Ayame's eyes were looking out the doorway where Mari and Ritsu left through, her peppy and carefree expression left her face.


-Inside Ritsu Room-


Ritsu room was like anyone would expect for a 12 year old girl. Her room was normal for the most part, but the distinguishing features of her room was the amount of stuffed animals that were gathered in the corner of her room, they all ranged from big to small. In the back a big plush bunny, standing next to them were another variety of animal and odd design plush dolls.

On the sides of the room were shelves that were being occupied with small mascot characters with odd but very cute designs. The room was pretty much filled with what every girl would deem cute. Dresses hanging on the pink wall and plushies on the bed.

Mari couldn't help but to crack a small smile on her face. Just the innocent atmosphere alone just reminded her of Chiyo. Granted, Chiyo doesn't have as many plushies or dresses that hung off the wall or even on her bed.

"Make yourself at home!" She said as she spun around in place and grabbed a bean bag for Mari to sit on. She then approached her closet that revealed the many clothes within the confined space.

Mari walks in the room with careful steps. If she was being honest, she still felt rather out of place at Matsuri's place. She approaches one of the bean bags that she offered for her to sit on. Mari carefully walks over and looks at it with a curious look.

Not something she's usually used to sitting on, but she didn't want to pry. She spun her body around and carefully sat down on the bean bag, at least she would be careful but didn't anticipate for the bean bag to be that low and dropped it on the soft bean bag. She readjusted herself with a blush.

"Never notice how soft these bean bags were." She thought to herself.

"So hey, are you sure that you're not into my brother?" Ritsu boldly asked from the closet.

Mari once again had a blush on her face, but still maintained her composure. "N-No. I'm sorry to disappoint you, but we're not a couple. I'm not even into him anyways."

"Aw man, well I guess that's fine. Sorry for asking you out of the blues like that. But I was talking to my brother the other day and I told him if he had a crush on someone at the school. He didn't answer, but his face does give a dead give away."

"Is that so?" She said as she raised an eyebrow. Mari could take a wild guess, but will not yet confirm it.

"Yeah," Ritsu said as she picked out her dress, the dress she picked out was a big puffy red and white dress that looked to be made in the western days. She showed Mari the dress as she draped it in front of her. "What do you think? Isn't it cute?"

Mari looked at the dress as Ritsu hovered it right in front of her body. She does have to admit, it really did suit her. It really went along with her young nature and fantasized mind.

Mari smiled at the girl. "It suits you."

Ritsu made a grin. "Thanks. I thought so too when we were shopping the other day. Wanna help me put it on?"

"Alright, I'll help you." Mari said with a soft tone as she struggled for a bit to get off, but managed to get off of the bean bag.


It only took a moment or so for Mari to help the girl get the dress on her. Ritsu popped her head through the small hole and pushed her hands through the sleeves. The big puffy skirt draped over her feet.

"There we go. It fits you."

Ritsu had a huge grin on her face as blush crept on her cheeks. She rushes over to the large mirror that hangs on the wall. She gave herself a quick turnaround, finishing it off with a twirl as the wind lifted her big skirt off the ground that revealed her feet.

"I love it. I look like a doll!" She said with a blush.

Mari chuckled a bit. "Well, it certainly does make you look like one."

She looked into the mirror once more as she began to adjust herself once more. Making sure she is ready for the day.

"Can you comb my hair real quick?"

Mari walks over to the young girl as she walks over behind her and begins to comb her hair out. Ritsu just sat there with a smile on her face, patiently waiting for Mari to do her task. But she continuously rocked slowly in place.

"So um…..hey," Ritsu began to say. "My father said that my brother was part of the student council at the school…..is that true?"

Mari's eyes widened a bit, she couldn't say she was surprised, but granted it was natural for her father to relay what is going on with his life right now…..and honestly she didn't want her to feel that her brother is being threatened.

"Yes…well, I wouldn't say that my group is the true student council."

"Huh?"

"The group that I'm the leader of is the Underground Student Council."

"Underground? What's with the Underground?"

"...it's a little complicated. But my group is more in charge of keeping the campus safe and in order from any students breaking the rules or attempting any wrongdoing."

"Really…..so you guys are like a vigilante group?" She said with a sparkle in her eyes.

"Something like that, yes. But our popularity have sky-rocketed, so we now take over most of the school."

"That's sooo cool!" Ritsu exclaimed with more sparkles in her eyes. Not exactly too aware of how much or what they even do behind the scene. But Mari was keeping it a secret. "Are there any other members in the group?"

"Yes."

"Can I see them? Do you have a picture?" She asked as she turned around just as Mari was done with her hair.

Mari couldn't help but just give her a warm smile. Mari reached into her pocket and grabbed her phone out. She searched through her photos until she landed on a photo that had both her, Meiko, and Hana all together in the photoshoot, looking at the phone.

She handed the girl the phone as she looked at it. Her reaction was expected as she looked at it. "Both of them look soo pretty!" She said with a huge grin on her face.

Mari chuckled at her response before she walked over and pointed at each of the members. "The one with the blonde hair is Hana Midorikawa, she's the secretary of the USC. The one over here is Meiko Shiraki, she's the vice-president of the USC."

"Wow, they all look beautiful, so what about my brother?"

"Huh?"

"What role does he have?"

"Oh….well…..h-he doesn't have one, he's only a temporary member."

"Aww really? But why temporary?"

"Well you see," Mari thought for a moment. Since she is aware of her brother being in the USC, she suppose it's okay to reveal some bits about her. "There are these five other males in the school, they did something bad and so they are facing punishment for their crimes."

"Oh…..so then…..why is my brother part of the USC?"

"...it's…..really to keep an eye on him. To make sure he doesn't do anything bad, we had him as a temporary member. Until the boys are done with their punishment, Matsuri will be relieved of his duty."

"Oh….I see," Ritsu was a little disappointed that he wasn't part of the USC, but at least he got to be part of a group. "At least he made some friends."

"What do you mean?"

"Matsuri is a socially awkward boy…back in his previous school years he always found it hard to befriend some of the other kids. He never speaks up, never really interacts, he was really lonely."

Mari continued to listen, interested in hearing more about Matsuri.

"I think high school was the worst year for him." This caught her full attention. "Whenever he comes home, he comes back either a complete mess or sometimes missing a shoe. I was really starting to get worried about him, all of us were."

"...he was…..being bullied?"

Ritsu nodded, trying to hold back her tears. "He wouldn't tell us what was going on, he just kept a smile on his face…..telling us everything was alright, even though it clearly wasn't. But then…..everything seemed fine after she came into his life…"

"Yoshimiya….."

"Huh? How do you know?" Ritsu asked her with a tilt.

A small gasp escaped from her mouth. A flash memory rushed through her head as she remembered that she dug into Matsuri's personal life and tried to accuse him of a crime he may or may have not committed.

Before their conversation could continue, a knock on the door was heard. Opening the door, revealed to be Ayame as she poked her head in first before opening all the way.

"There you two are," She said as she walked over to the two. "What's keeping you two?"

"Oh! Sorry Anee-san. Mari was telling me about her responsibilities at the school. I didn't know she was some sort of vigilante!" She said with the same stars in her eyes once more.

Ayame gained a grin as she looked at the two. "Really now, that's rather something. Anyways, mom says hurry up, get down stairs, birthday girl. Or else all of the cake will be gone."

"Gak! WHAT!? I'M COMING! YOU SHOULD HURRY TOO IF YOU WANNA GET SOME CAKE LEFT!" She quickly told Mari before jumping off of the chair and running out of the room, leaving the two girls in the room.

The room grew silent with just the both of them…..alone. There was something that bothered her about Ayame. Matsuri's older sister. She seems all happy and carefree, but whenever it's just the two of them…..Mari couldn't put it but it felt like she was giving her a message of some sort.

Mari shook her head. "Well then…..should we go down and join them….."

"Yeah…..we should….just as long as you don't interrogate my family about my little brother's life."

This caught Mari by surprise. So she WAS aware too. She knew about her little incident with the boy as well.

"...you've heard, haven't you?"

"Yeah….." Ayame said she fully faced Mari. Her hands settled right under her ample bust as she looked at her with a glare. "And just what gives you the right to interrogate my brother like that, huh?"

"...it was my mistake-"

"You bet it was," Ayame cut her off with a cold tone. "I know all about what goes on at the school that you and my brother attend too, you and the rest of your members have a rather nasty vendetta against boys."

"..." Mari's expression loses all sorts of kindness and goes to her usual glare that she usually gives off. "Because men are scum."

"Are they? Or is that how you view them." Ayame said, her cold tone not leaving as she approaches Mari with a glare. "Sure, I can't say this to all men myself. But who says that all men are bad? That all men have lewd fantasy on girls? They give girls a glance from the sides, I bet that immediately makes them bad in your eyes." She said as she reached towards Mari. Her nose inches away from her's.

Mari's eyes narrowed at her. "What are you trying to get at?"

"I didn't get the chance to say this when we were in the car because I didn't want Matsuri to be involved with this…I don't like you."

"And?" Mari shot back.

"Because you made my brother have a panic attack. Hell, I'm glad I took the opportunity to come to Ritsu's birthday to not just celebrate with the family, but to talk to the ever so fearsome president who has a complex issue with males."

"I beg your pardon, it is not a complex issue. It is the truth."

"Is it really now?" Ayame retorts back. She is showing no sign of backing down from this argument.

"...what do you want?"

"Nothing honestly…..all I want is an answer. Why the hell did you interrogate my brother about Yoshimiya? Why the hell did you accuse him?"

"..." Mari bit her lip. She figured that she had this coming and all. "It was a misstep in my plan…..I guess I was fixated on trying to throw Hitoyoshi in prison with the other boys…..because I thought I finally had clues on him being a disgusting scum…but his reaction was not the answer I was looking for."

Memory flashed through her mind once more. Matsuri, being on the ground, having a panic attack. His eyes looked dead into space.

"I now have a new goal in mind…..and that's uncovering the mystery behind Yoshimiya death."

"..." Ayame didn't say anything but just stared at the crow master. A moment of silence passed through before she exhaled some breath. "If you plan on gathering clues here, you're wasting your time…Matsuri never told us what happened that day. He came home that day…..completely devastated. We tried to find out what happen to Yoshimiya…..but he would tell us. He just locked himself in his room…..crying."

The cold tone that was once in her voice was replaced by a more concerned tone. Her eyes looked the other way. "It's a shame though…..Yoshimiya was a really great girl…..always wasn't afraid to speak her mind. Taking risks, she was someone that Matsuri needed in his life…..a friend."

"..."

"When we transferred school, I thought Matsuri was going to have a normal school life, hopefully making some friends…..and maybe get a girlfriend too," She with a bit of a snicker. "Guess that's too much to ask for my little brother."

"..." Mari continued not to say anything. Just completely speechless from her speech. So she supposed that gathering information here was a waste of time as well. She cursed herself, hoping that she could find some clues that could lead to Yoshimiya's death and who really did it…but she did gather some more info about Matsuri's character. The way she sees it, he's a boy who seems to not stand up for himself. He just let everyone push him around and not speak up….once again, reminds her of a close friend of hers.

"If he was being bullied…..why didn't he ask for help? Actually, why didn't he tell anyone about Yoshimiya's death…" Mari needed to know.

"ANEE-SAN! MARI! COME DOWN HERE ALREADY!" Ritsu yelled at them from downstairs. From the tone of her voice she was getting restless.

"Uh oh. She's getting impatient. That girl," Ayame said with a grin. "We'll continue this conversation again some other time. For now, let's just enjoy some cake. And maybe perhaps I can show you some embarrassing photos of Matsuri." She said with a small laugh before she turned around and walked towards the door followed by Mari.

Before the two could leave the room, Ayame stopped at the doorway, prompting Mari to stop as well.

"I'm not sure why Matsuri didn't tell us what happened or what's going on during that incident…..but if you ask me. I think he didn't tell us because he was ashamed of himself."

"Ashame?"

"It's just a thought honestly…..but it looks like he is too ashamed of himself for what happened? I wouldn't blame him…..considering that Yoshimiya was really close and dear to him…and he wasn't there for her when she committed suicide…..if you find out the truth behind Yoshimiya death…what do you plan on doing?" She asked as she glanced over her shoulder, giving Mari a glare.

Mari just stood there with a pondering thought to herself. If she finds out the truth behind Yohsimiya's death and finds out if Matsuri really did or did not take those photos…..what will happen afterward? Is Matsuri truly innocent? Was he just an unlucky victim….if Matsuri is truly innocent…..then that means the real bastard who took those photos could be the real enemy.

"ANEE-SAN!"

"Coming!" Ayame said with an annoyed tone. "Come on. Better not keep the birthday girl waiting."

She said as she hurried out the door and down the stairs. Leaving Mari to her thoughts. It seems there is more to Matsuri than she initially thought. She didn't want to believe it, but all of what she has heard from most of his family is that Matsuri really is a well-behaved boy with no ill intention on hurting anyone.

But questions still floated through her head. And it really has been bugging her as of late.

If Matsuri didn't kill her? Then who did?

How come the school didn't bring him up in the incident? They were close friends right?

Why did they stopped being friends during

There were many questions and other clues that didn't make sense to her and it only encouraged her to find out more about Matsuri and hopefully uncover it all.

"And once I do…..I will try again. Ask him next time. Only then…..I will finally find out what exactly happened that day."


-Kitchen Area-


Mari walks into the kitchen, she takes note of the family already getting settled for the cake. Ritsu was sitting in the middle between two chairs, with Ayame taking her seat next to her little sister.

Kenchiro was rummaging in the other room, looking for something. "Akari, where did we keep the lighter again?"

"It should be in the tray near the fireplace." She responded from behind the counter, helping Matsuri with the cake. The two were putting on the final touches with the design. From where she was standing, she could see that they were putting on some strawberries for topping.

"Oh, Mari, you can take a seat if you like?"

"O-Oh. I can help if you like?"

"Nonsense. You're our guest, please leave this to us."

"OH! Hey Mari! You can come sit next to me and Ayame."

Matsuri flinched a little. He was already dreading the talk they were going to have. Not exactly paying attention to the strawberry in his hand.

"Matsuri dear, pay attention."

Mari walks over to the offered chair between Ritsu and Ayame as the two eagerly wait for her to sit down. Completely hiding her rather cautious side towards Ayame, she took the seat between the two. Immediately Ritsu was the first to come out with the question.

"So hey, I know that you're not my brother's girlfriend…..but does he have a specific crush on any of the other girls in the council?"

"Oh? A crush?"

"Yeah, yeah, you know. Someone he's interested in." Ritsu snickered followed by Ayame who couldn't help but made a toothy grin at this.

Matsuri began to tremble in not fear, but embarrassment. He already figured that they were going to tease him like this, but he still was dreading being present to witness it. Especially with Mari here, the very same girl he is trying his damn hardest to not try to anger or make any wrong move. Or he will end up in prison.

"Well, knowing her, she'll possibly just say no to them. I mean, there's no way she will-" His thoughts stopped when he took notice of Mari…THINKING!? "W-W-Wait! Wait a minute! Why is she thinking!?"

"Well…you could say he does have an interest in one of my friends…I suppose." She said as she briefly shot the boy a glare. Causing him to yelp a little.

"Oh~! Does he now~?" Ayame said with a mocking tone. Her grin stretched wider.

"I knew it! Who is it?"

"U-Umm…..h-hey dad! Have you found the lighter!?" Matsuri screamed for his dad in the other room.

Luckily Kenchiro came in with the lighter in his hand. "Yup. And it still works."

"Okay good! Now could you please h-hurry on over here and light the candles!"

Akari just chuckled to herself at her son's reaction. She knew what he was trying to do and honestly it was just too fun to watch him like this. She missed this.

"Hold on, honey, we still haven't put the candles on yet."

"I thought we did!? Look…9 candles?"

"Oh dear, looks like this will be a while~." She said with a mocking tone.

Matsuri, in a state of panic, rushes through the kitchen trying to find at least one or even more candlestick. Unaware of Akari sending her daughters a wink as she held the last candle in her hands. The two girls giggled with Kenchiro stretching his head with a nervous chuckle. Just another day for Matsuri.

"So then….back to our important question. Who's the girl that my little bro has a crush on?" Ayame asked with a cheerful grin.

Mari took note of the girls teasing their brother, not with ill intention, but just for fun. She couldn't help but smirk at them. "Well, again it's an idea. But he did take a rather…interesting stare at one of my friends."

"MOM! I THOUGHT YOU HAD MORE CANDLES!?"

"Ooooh~. I thought I brought some more," She said as she purposely held the candle in front of her. Tapping her cheeks with it. Matsuri's eyes looked dead as if he was betrayed with the look on his face. "Oh well, guess the girls could talk all day I guess."

"GIMME THAT!" Matsuri pounces at the candle that his mother held in her hands. Once he finally caught hold of it, he drove the candle into the cake, making it a total of 10 candles. "DAD HURRY UP PLEASE!" Matsuri bursted, his face completely red.

"Who is it! Who is it!" Ritsu said, completely getting into this game of teasing her brother.

Even Mari couldn't help but to play along just a little longer. "Well, if I recall he had a fanisnation on-"

Their conversation was interrupted when Matsuri brought the cake to the table. Completely stopping their conversation.

"OKAYIBROUGHTTHECAKEFORTHEBIRTHDAYGIRL!" He said in a rush. He breathed heavily, his face was still crimson red of embarrassment, his eyes trying their best to look the other way.

"...well. Took you long enough." Mari said with a smirk.

"Yeah onii-chan, you were too slow!" Ritsu said with a mischievous grin.

"Slow-poke." Ayame chimed in.

Matsuri just groaned at them. Especially Mari, who was completely in on the game to begin with. It kind of struck him odd that she would even dare play along with them at his expense. If he was honest, she was possibly just doing it just to play along with Ritsu, but still, it embarrassed him.

"Alright then, everyone's ready." Akari announced as they began their song for Ritsu.


5:30pm (Time Cut)

Hours have passed by. It was pretty an eventful one at that for Mari. They have exchanged their presents with the birthday girl. Ritsu spent some time with Mari as the two got to know each a tad bit more. Matsuri for the most part was teased constantly by his two sisters (and to an extent his mom).

Despite the teasing, he has missed this feeling with his family for a while and is just what was needed. After all the situations that have happened at the school, a well break is what he needed. But his worries were often on the president, wondering if she was going to do something crazy or try to interrogate his family right in front of her. But he got word from Ayame that she had already talked to Mari, so everything was fine…..until they returned to school of course.

It has been hours now, and the two needed to head back to school. Ayame offered them a ride back.

"Thank you for having me." Mari bowed her head towards Matsuri's parents.

"The pleasure was ours as well," Akari returned the bow with a soft smile. "Mari….I'm aware of your little issue with males and all…..but please don't misjudge my son. He's a very good boy." She said with a hopeful smile.

"I can't guarantee that he's all innocent," Kenchiro added. "But he really does mean no harm to anyone. I can promise you that."

Mari pondered at the words for a moment or so before coming to a close. "I'll keep that in mind. To be honest, I wish we had more time to speak…..but I have other business to attend to."

"We're aware. Thank you for coming." Akari bowed her head once more before looking at her son. "Matsuri….."

"I'll be fine mom. Really don't worry about me."

"I know…..but remember, if things get too much for you…..just give us the word and we'll pull you out."

Matsuri nodded before rushing over and giving his parents a hug. Both his mom and dad wrapped him in their arms. Akari hugged him in her arms, her cheeks rubbing against his cheeks and her hands rubbing his messy hair. With Kenchiro wrapping his whole arm around them both.

The council president looks at the scene that was in front of her. And would say she was rather touched by the display of affection that Matsuri's parents gave him. It truly did catch her by surprise…..but she also felt rather jealous at it for a brief moment.


-Front entrance of Hachimitsu Academy-


Ayame drove the two students down the streets of Tokyo towards Hachimitsu academy. Matsuri was once again leaning against the window, his chin resting under the palm of his hand. Letting the wind splash against his face. Letting the wind wash away his anxiety.

Mari took a side glance at the boy, she took note of his expression. Nothing much changed, but she noticed that he was a little more depressed. Like something on his mind. But her mind was on another thing. For example, his past relationship with Yoshimiya. What really happened to her? Who took those pictures? And if Matsuri really was her friend, why did the school leave him out of it?

Those questions came to a close when they approached the school gate of Hachimitsu academy. Mari sighed to herself. Back to work it was for her.

Matsuri on the other hand was rather more depressed on his end. Only 4 more days until May 7th. The boy gripped the bag with the leftover cake he still carried in his hands. Just the thought of it put him on the edge. He hated lying to the council, but all he had to do was to keep his mouth shut until that day. Hopefully Kiyoshi won't get caught.

"Alright. Last stop." Ayame announced from her seat as she turned around and gave them a grin.

"Thank you for the lift." Mari bowed as she opened the door and walked out of the car.

Matsuri drew in a big breath and exhaled, running his hand through his hair. Matsuri opens the door and walks out the door.

"Thanks sis."

Ayame looks at Matsuri with a grin. An idea popped into her head. She opens the door and jumps out of the car. With a little jog, she stops in front of Matsuri, she opens her arms wide in front of him. Encouraging him to hug her.

Matsuri couldn't help but to grow a small smile on his face and gave her a hug. Ayame wrapped her arms around Matsuri's back as she brought him closer to him.

"You better keep in touch little bro."

"I will…..and it was great to see you."

The sister cracked a smile at him as she partly departed from his body and ruffled his messy hair. She then let him go and looked at Mari with a small smile.

"It was a pleasure meeting you too, Ayame Hitoyoshi."

"Yeah…..pleasures all mine," She said as she stretched her hand towards Mari. The president stretched her hand towards hers as she shook it. Before she knew it, Ayame pulled her close enough where her lips were near her ear. "If you or any of those other council members hurt my brother…..I'll never forgive you guys." She said with a cold tone, her hand gripping Mari's hands.

Mari winced a little from the grip, but she remained strong as she was able to depart from Ayame's body and looked at her with a stern look.

"As long as Matsuri behaves himself…..then I won't do anything." She said to her.

"I'll take that answer, but still." Ayame lets go of her hand and walks back to her car.

Ayame went into her car and started up the engine. Not before giving her brother and Mari one final goodbye wave. On that note, she drove off into the distance, furthering herself away from the school. Leaving the two to themself.

"Um….." Matsuri got Mari's attention. "Here." He said as he handed Mari a box.

"What's this?"

"It's some extra pieces that I was able to cut from the cake. One for you, Vice President, and Hana."

Mari raised an eyebrow at the bag. Her eyes look back at Matsuri. "You saved some for us."

"Y-Yeah…..I just thought that I could treat you guys something…unless you don't want it."

"...no. This is good." Mari said as she took the back. She noticed that Matsuri was carrying another box in the bag. "Those wouldn't happen to be for the boys would they?"

"Oh! Um…..w-well…with the boys almost getting out next week…..I thought I could treat them to some cake…these are ones I made just for them and Etsuko as well….." He said as he fidgeted in place with a blush.

Mari raised an eyebrow at him. This boy was just all kindness all over. Even to the girl who still sees him as a scum and tried many attempts to throw him in prison. He still shows them the kindness that he did throughout the month and before.

She stretched her hand out towards Matsuri. "I'll have Meiko take those to the boys."

"Huh?"

"Don't take this the wrong way, but I still don't exactly trust you. But I would feel a little bit more safe with the Vice President handing them out. And I'll give the cake to Etsuko."

"O-Okay. It's fine. I understand." He said as he handed the bag to Mari.

"Well then…..goodnight Hitoyoshi."

"Goodnight, Madame President." He bowed as he hurried inside the school before her. Leaving Mari to her own with the cakes.

Her eyes looked down at the bag that carried the boxes. This boy really did confuse her. He was definitely unlike the other boys who showed signs of ill perverted behavior. Where Matsuri, who possesses some of that trait, still shows kindness in his heart.

Mari raises her head up in the twilight sky, there were many thoughts going through her head about the boy.

"Was I really wrong about Hitoyoshi…perhaps…just perhaps. But I still have a mystery to solve…that will decide Hitoyoshi fate."


..


And that's another chapter wrapped up. This one took longer than anticipated, but I was struggling a bit on how to or which scene to put in during this chapter.

So to address the pink elephant in the room. Where is the scene where Gakuto sh**ts himself in the computer lab. I was originally going to add the scene in this chapter, but it took up too much of the page and it was going out longer than anticipated. So I thought hard on this and decided to scrap the scene from *this* chapter and will be move it over to the next chapter.

Also to note, with Matsuri and Etsuko helping out, the scene where Gakuto sh**ts himself, will be played out differently. Not going to say much, but wait until you see in the next chapter.

Hope you guys liked the birthday scene, Matsuri family really does love him and I wanted to show it here. Giving Mari a good impression on Matsuri as a whole. To be honest, I felt I did introduce Matsuri's family too early, but I needed something to play with to give Mari some development of her relationship with Matsuri. I'm a little bummed that Meiko didn't make it for this chapter, but don't worry, she'll have her time to shine later on in this arc.

As always, thank you for the support of this story and I hope you guys will continue reading this to an hopeful end.

Stay safe and see you in the next chapter!