🎊🎊🎊SCIAW: Chapter 427/432

Chapter 427: Curiosity and Worry

"Miss Katsura, what did you want to talk to me about?"

As they moved to a quieter corner, Ren was the first to speak.

"It's about Nagi-chan."

After giving it some thought, Hinagiku decided to begin with Nagi's situation.

"I'm actually quite familiar with Nagi's personality. In the past, she lacked strong willpower and perseverance. Of course, I know a big part of it was due to her family environment."

"But it was exactly because she lived in such a comfortable environment that she couldn't make up her mind easily. So how did her health suddenly improve? And how did she find that determination?"

This was the direction Hinagiku had always wanted Nagi to improve in, but no matter how hard she tried, she had never succeeded in motivating her.

"When a person gains enough perseverance to accomplish something, it's because they have a clear goal. And that goal is more important to them than even themselves. In that case, no matter how lazy someone is, they'll show surprising perseverance to achieve it."

"It's not that they can't work hard. It's just that the results of their hard work usually take too long to show. They want something they can see progress in right away, so they have a reason to convince themselves to stick with it."

"The current Nagi fits both of those conditions."

"She has a clear goal she absolutely wants to achieve, and she also has the conditions to see progress day by day."

"That's why she's changed so much. Even those of you who are close to her feel like she's a completely different person."

Ren's explanation was smooth and logical. Naturally, Hinagiku understood what he meant.

In summary, it came down to having a clear goal and being able to see visible progress. So, she followed that train of thought and asked further:

"So… does something like that really exist in the world of ordinary people?"

"Well, saying it doesn't would be too narrow. I think it does exist, even in the ordinary world."

Hinagiku took a deep breath.

"So, Mr. Ren, do you not understand what I mean?"

Ren wasn't annoyed. He just gave a slight nod.

"I understand you perfectly, but I think asking me so directly is a bit careless. What if I really was dangerous? Wouldn't you be in danger right now, Miss Katsura?"

"No, you're not."

Hinagiku lightly shook her head.

Ren responded by shaking his head as well, then suddenly raised his hand.

Huh?

Hinagiku saw a flash of light before her eyes.

Her vision dropped. The pain of her face hitting the ground became incredibly clear. She felt like her sight had fallen to the floor. When she tried to move, she realized only her eyes could move, everything else was frozen.

The last thing she saw was her own body collapsing. After that, she couldn't see anything else.

It was only at that moment that Hinagiku realized something terrifying.

Her head had been cut off.

Once that realization hit, overwhelming fear and pain surged through her nerves.

Suddenly, Hinagiku's eyes shot open.

"Haa… haa… haa…"

Her ragged breathing made her feel the rhythm of her heartbeat. She instinctively reached for her neck. After confirming that her head was still attached, the terror began to fade just a little.

"Now then, Miss Katsura. Do you still think I'm not dangerous?"

"!?"

Her breathing wouldn't slow. The fear of being decapitated couldn't be pushed aside so easily.

Hearing that calm voice startled Hinagiku again.

But in the next moment, she gradually began to control her breathing. The fear started to subside.

The panic in her eyes faded, replaced by a calm gaze as she looked directly at Ren.

"I still don't think you are."

Same answer as before.

But this time, Ren held his head slightly, as if he had a headache.

"Really?"

He had originally wanted to use this as a lesson, to show her that dangerous people don't wear signs that say 'I'm dangerous' on their foreheads.

But this she really had exceptional mental endurance. She had just been overwhelmed with fear a second ago, yet she managed to suppress it almost instantly, like someone with extraordinary qualities.

"You were the ones who said you wanted to investigate this yourselves."

Hinagiku's reasoning was simple and direct, and Ren couldn't help but roll his eyes.

"When I said 'investigate,' I didn't mean walking up and asking to die."

"She clearly heard the warning from Aika just now, yet she still came right up to me without hesitation. That really is just like the all-powerful student council president."

Finally, he let out a sigh.

"Oh well. No matter what, Miss Katsura's endurance really is incredible. Even in the face of overwhelming fear, she can still control her emotions. Her mental strength and composure are unmatched among anyone I've met."

There wasn't much he could do when faced with a student council president so set on uncovering the truth.

In his impression, the student council president should be a cautious and careful person. Yet, she had gone with such a bold and direct approach.

What was even more surprising was her ability to maintain emotional control. He had clearly used his Dream-based ability to let her experience a simulated beheading, but she still managed to rein herself in. Truly impressive.

"So, why are you so obsessed with this, Miss Katsura?"

"Curiosity and worry."

Hinagiku was indeed curious about the secret. But the reason she had chosen such a direct approach was because of her concern.

"Nagi-chan, Isumi-san, and Aika-san are all involved in this secret."

"It may bring benefits to Nagi-chan and Aika, but I also need to confirm how dangerous this secret is for them."

Even Ren couldn't refute that.

If something had the potential to bring great benefit, it also had the potential for great risk.

Worrying that her friends might be in danger, and having the courage to walk into the unknown—that, too, was a form of bravery.

Of course, Ren had more admiration for Hinagiku's calm judgment and strong will when facing the fog of the unknown.

"Well then, since you've shown that kind of mindset and ability, you're indeed qualified to know."

(To be continued.)

Chapter 428: Expanding the Believer's Mindset

"So, what exactly does Miss Katsura want to know?"

"As far as I understand, I want to know whether Nagi-chan and the others are currently in any danger."

"Well… I'd say the situation would be far more dangerous if the Sanzenin heir position were still unstable. Miss Katsura should also understand that there are plenty of people out there eyeing the Sanzenin fortune."

"…Yeah, I do."

When Hinagiku thought about the many kidnapping incidents Nagi had experienced in the past, her expression twitched.

Wealth often attracts desire, especially when it reaches a certain scale.

Hinagiku understood why Nagi didn't want to attend school. Naturally, she was also aware that Nagi had long been targeted by those with eyes on the Sanzenin estate.

"So, Nagi-chan and Isumi aren't actually in danger now?"

"Not only are they not in danger, they're actually capable of protecting themselves now. You could say they're safer than before."

That made sense.

Thinking back to how Nagi had been growing stronger day by day recently, Hinagiku now felt that it was a good thing she had the power to defend herself.

"So Nagi-chan's improved health is also because of this?"

Ren nodded slightly.

As their elemental strength grows, both Nagi and Maria, who possess a Vision, will naturally become stronger physically until they eventually reach a bottleneck.

After hearing that, Hinagiku felt her worries settle somewhat.

"That's good."

Nagi's health had always been a headache for her.

Now, for some reason, Nagi's condition had improved, which should give her more reason to work harder.

"May I ask why Nagi-chan is so motivated?"

Ren paused for a moment, then shook his head slightly.

"I know why she's pushing herself, but it's a matter of personal privacy. If you want to know, you'll have to ask her directly. I can't be the one to tell you."

"You don't have to give me the details. That reason must be very important to her, right?"

"Yeah."

After receiving confirmation, Hinagiku didn't press further.

Just like Ren said, if she wanted to know the specifics, she should hear it from Nagi herself. It would be inappropriate to get such personal answers from someone else.

Now she finally understood the two elements Ren had mentioned before.

Clear goals and visible progress.

Obviously, it was these two factors that had pushed Nagi to consider changing.

Ren observed her expression and asked, "Is that enough for you?"

"Yeah, that's enough about Nagi-chan."

Hinagiku nodded slightly. Now that her worries were resolved, she no longer felt the need to keep questioning Nagi or Isumi's safety.

"She has a goal and the conditions to work for it. I believe she'll grow up fast. Just knowing that is enough."

"As for what that goal is, that's her business."

Of course, the topic of Nagi ended there.

But Hinagiku's curiosity still wasn't satisfied, and she had more questions to ask.

"So then, what's your relationship? How did all of you end up together under such special circumstances?"

"Well… I'd like to answer that, but there are a lot of complications involved, so I can't really give a clear explanation."

"So the way you came together is the key issue?"

Hinagiku nodded slightly.

Although Ren didn't provide details, the fact that he didn't answer clearly already told her something. Sometimes a non-answer was a clue in itself.

She turned her gaze toward the group Nagi was in.

There were quite a few people in that circle, and some familiar faces too.

Finally, Hinagiku focused on Aizawa Sakuya.

Not for any special reason. It was just because of Aika.

"So Aika and Sakuya are part of that group too?"

"No. Miss Aika and Miss Sakuya are only familiar with the group. They haven't officially joined yet."

After thinking for a moment, Ren gave a straightforward explanation.

"Everyone who officially joins the group shares one specific trait. That's what connects us."

"Right now, neither Aika nor Sakuya meet that condition."

"However, our group does recruit certain believers."

"Believers?"

The word "believer" left the usually non-religious Hinagiku a little confused.

"There are religious people in your group?"

"It's not about religion in the traditional sense. What we need are people with belief. Believers are a necessary kind of talent."

Ren's explanation was somewhat vague, making Hinagiku feel like she understood but not entirely.

She honestly didn't know much about religion, and it wasn't like she particularly minded belief systems either.

"So what's the name of this group or religion, and what do you believe in?"

"'Tarot' is the name of the faith. The belief is in the Fool."

"Tarot… sounds more like the name of your organization than a religion. As for the Fool, is that the code name of a person?"

Hinagiku quickly picked up on that and asked without hesitation.

"That's right."

Ren nodded slightly. Of course, being a believer came with its benefits.

"Of course, there are a few things you need to understand if you're going to become a believer."

"Because belief also comes with risks. To put it simply, believers can gain certain benefits, but they must pay a price in return."

"An equal exchange?"

Hinagiku didn't find that strange, but just to be sure, she wanted to know both the rewards and the costs.

"What kind of benefits? And what kind of price?"

"The benefit is gaining special powers. As for the cost, it comes from belief itself. Over time, you'll begin to change in the direction of the person you believe in. That includes your personality and thoughts."

"Isn't that dangerous?"

Personality and thoughts gradually shifting toward one's object of faith. That sounded disturbingly close to brainwashing.

Hinagiku's expression shifted dramatically.

(To be continued.)

Special thanks to paladar blade for sponsoring this extra chapter 🎉🎉🎉

Chapter 429: Believer +1

"There's definitely danger. Faith causes people to idolize something. That kind of idolization becomes a form of spiritual support and strength. But sometimes, that kind of spiritual power can also drive people to do insane things."

"Such a church is called a cult."

"But there are also religions that don't push their followers to extremes or carry out evil rituals. All they require is pure, sincere belief from the heart."

"A church like that is called orthodox."

"Miss Katsura, do you think someone like Sanzenin would be stupid enough to join a cult?"

Hearing that, Hinagiku gradually calmed down.

In terms of intellect and maturity, Nagi wasn't someone who would fall for that kind of deception.

If she wanted to understand more, she would have to step into the world Nagi now lived in.

And clearly, it wasn't just Nagi involved anymore. There were many others as well.

So if she wanted answers, she would have to go in herself.

Thinking that, Hinagiku made up her mind.

"Then, what does it take to become a believer?"

Ren looked at Hinagiku with interest.

"Are you really willing to go that far just to learn more about Sanzenin and the others, Miss Katsura?"

"You already said it's not a cult. If that's the case, then what's there to be afraid of?"

Hinagiku smiled, completely unfazed by the world she was about to step into, placing full trust in her own judgment.

"That's a strong reason."

Ren could see that she was serious. She had the courage to get involved. In a sense, Hinagiku perfectly embodied the qualities required of someone extraordinary.

"Since you've made up your mind, then come with me."

Ren didn't delay. He led Hinagiku to a quiet residential area and randomly picked a room.

Bang.

With a snap of his fingers, the door opened.

Ren walked in first. Hinagiku hesitated for a moment, eyeing the door curiously before following.

There was no keypad or electronic control.

How exactly had it opened?

It was a thick, standard anti-theft door. The kind of door you'd expect to need a key for.

Hinagiku couldn't figure out how it had opened just from a finger snap.

"Don't stare at it, Miss Katsura. The door opens through a special method. You won't figure it out."

Hinagiku gave the door one last glance before finally closing it behind her.

"So, why bring me into this room?"

"To let you receive the benefits of becoming a believer. To let you experience firsthand the power that Tarot can give."

"Oh!" Hinagiku's eyes lit up with interest.

She assumed the process must be something elaborate.

"The process isn't important. The choice is."

Ren smiled slightly. He stepped up to her, raised his finger, and gently tapped her forehead.

In that moment, a torrent of information exploded inside her mind.

Countless fragments of knowledge about the Lawyer Pathway surged through her thoughts. At the same time, the spiritual switch in her body was activated.

As her mind rapidly absorbed this new knowledge, her awakened spirituality began to spread, condense, and stabilize.

Soon, Hinagiku's dazed eyes regained clarity.

She looked at Ren, her expression full of disbelief at the power now coursing through her.

"This… this is the special power?"

"The name of this power is Lawyer. As the name suggests, you now possess the abilities of a Lawyer. You're skilled at finding loopholes in rules and exploiting them."

"Your words carry weight. You can distort or influence someone's thoughts to a certain extent. People will feel more affinity toward you and be more willing to believe what you say."

As Ren explained, Hinagiku reviewed what she had just absorbed. The ability's characteristics really did match the impression she had of the word "Lawyer."

"But aside from this, there are no other powers. Compared to other Sequence abilities, the Lawyer Path seems rather plain."

Even so, Hinagiku didn't think it was weak.

"No, this power is strong. Being able to twist someone's thoughts is basically like brainwashing. There's nothing ordinary about that at all."

By exploiting loopholes in logic or rules, she could bend perceptions and influence actions. That kind of distortion was powerful in its own right.

In fact, it bordered on being unreasonable.

If used properly, and with knowledge of the rules, it could be extremely effective.

Moreover, this ability also boosted her affinity with others. As student council president, Hinagiku knew just how important affinity was.

Her ability to solve problems didn't come only from competence. Her rapport with classmates was a major factor.

Affinity helped bring people closer. And combined with the power to influence thoughts, this ability could easily be wielded by someone manipulative—or worse.

After digesting the power's implications, Hinagiku looked again at the ordinary-looking boy in front of her.

"So, the Fool of the Tarot Club… is you, isn't it, Amamiya-san?"

A small smile curved at the corners of Ren's lips.

"That's right."

Hinagiku's face twitched. Then she covered her face with her hand in frustration.

"So I've been talking about this with the cult leader all this time?"

"Hey now. Calling me a cult leader is going a bit too far, Miss Katsura."

Ren didn't agree with the label at all.

"From the very beginning, I've been trying to stop you from getting involved. You were the one insisting on walking in."

Hinagiku knew that was true. She couldn't argue with it, which made her even more annoyed.

"I know… and now I regret it."

Of course, it was far too late for regrets.

After venting a little, she lifted her head again.

"So you also used that special ability back at the banquet, didn't you? That's why we thought you were just an ordinary person, and not the key to anything."

Ren nodded slightly.

"Deception is also a type of ability."

Hinagiku was silent for a moment.

And this man even admitted it without hesitation.

(To be continued.)

Chapter 430: Taking Advantage of the Rules of "Lawyer"

That birthday party had also been a day influenced by special abilities.

Looking back on it now, Hinagiku realized that Ren had seemed unusually sincere, not at all like someone with powers.

At the time, she just thought Ren was an ordinary person who happened to know the inside story.

Who would've guessed that the "ordinary insider" she trusted back then turned out to be the true core of the secret group?

She found out too late.

It wasn't until after she officially joined the mysterious organization and obtained special powers that she learned the truth.

Hinagiku clearly understood one thing now, it was already too late to back out.

She had received power from Ren. She had stepped into a domain that ordinary people couldn't touch. And even if she wanted to quit now, she doubted it was possible.

Of course, the benefits were undeniable.

The ability she received—Lawyer—was extraordinary, to say the least.

While it didn't directly enhance physical strength, its effects were far more frightening than brute force.

After all, neither affinity nor the power to influence others' thoughts could be acquired through training alone.

"But… how did you get this ability in the first place? If this power were given to a real-world Lawyer with bad intentions, it could definitely cause serious chaos."

Ren agreed with her assessment.

"The Lawyer Path is really well-suited for doing some questionable things."

"You've only unlocked the most basic level of this Path, but even so, it's more than enough to cause widespread social harm."

"If someone like a dishonest attorney acquired this power, they could easily cause countless wrongful convictions."

"Which means… wait."

As she was speaking, Hinagiku suddenly caught a key detail.

"This is the initial level of power?"

Just this one ability had already shaken Hinagiku's worldview. And yet, this wasn't even close to its full potential?

"There's an advanced version?"

"Of course."

Ren began explaining casually.

"The level you're at now is the beginning of the Sequence—Sequence 9: Lawyer. The next stage is Sequence 8: Barbarian."

Barbarian?

The name caught Hinagiku off guard. But after a bit of thought, she understood.

"So, instead of manipulating laws and rules… it's about brute force?"

That was such a twisted progression.

Abandoning the very laws a Lawyer should manipulate, and using fists instead? Hinagiku had a strong feeling this Path would lead her far from anything respectable.

"Then there's Sequence 7: Briber."

"...???"

Hinagiku's face twitched. She finally understood. This Lawyer Path wasn't just clever—it was blatantly corrupt.

Even without knowing the exact abilities, the name made it clear what direction it was heading.

Ren continued explaining.

"In terms of power, a Briber establishes a connection with a target through bribery, either literal or symbolic. Once that connection is made, you can use various effects on them, such as Charm, Weaken, Arrogance, or Connection."

As Ren elaborated, Hinagiku began to grasp the terrifying nature of this stage.

It wasn't just about distorting minds or using physical strength, it was about establishing a framework of power over others.

This was no longer about following rules. It was about creating your own rules, and using them for personal gain.

The so-called "bribery" was actually a means of forming a connection.

Once that link was established, she could cast effects on her targets at will.

"What an unreasonable power."

"It really is."

Ren agreed without hesitation.

"The core of the Lawyer Sequence is rule manipulation. But the rules you use are for your own benefit—not others'. That's why it's so unreasonable."

"But tell me, Miss Katsura… do you think this power is evil?"

Hinagiku thought for a moment, then slowly shook her head.

"No. I think the power itself is excellent. But if it leaks out, that would be dangerous."

"Exactly. That's why it will never leak."

"It won't leak… but didn't you just leak it to me?"

"Pfft. This isn't leaking. It's a gift to a believer."

Ren laughed and gave a lighthearted response.

"As you already know, believers don't inherently possess the power. It's given by me. And since I give it, I can also take it back."

"That's why the risk of leakage is nonexistent from the beginning."

Makes sense.

Hearing that, Hinagiku felt more at ease. If it could be revoked at any time, then there was no risk of unauthorized spread.

"No wonder it's called a 'boon.'"

Ren didn't deny it.

"Believers have only half-stepped into our world. It's only when you actively use the power that you're truly considered part of it."

"Of course, while the gift can be revoked, it still makes entry easier. Normally, joining would involve a lot more danger. In a way, this is an equal exchange."

Hinagiku accepted that explanation easily.

After all, the power granted just by being a believer was already beyond anything an ordinary person could obtain. The cost-to-reward ratio was absurdly favorable. So naturally, there had to be restrictions.

At the very least, loyalty was something a believer had to demonstrate.

"So, what about Nagi-chan and Isumi-san?"

"No, Nagi obtained her power through a different method. And she's part of a different system altogether. As for Isumi, she's had extraordinary power from the very beginning. But no one at Hakuou Academy knows that."

Isumi had powers from the start?

Hinagiku was briefly stunned.

Clearly, no one knew about that.

But now… this kind of thing had become oddly acceptable.

(To be continued.)
Special thanks to paladar blade for sponsoring this extra chapter 🎉🎉🎉
Chapter 431: "Lawyer" Hinagiku

After Ren finished explaining everything to ensure Hinagiku fully understood her current situation, the two of them left the residential area.

Upon returning to the hall, Ren brought Hinagiku over to Kaguya and the others and reintroduced her with a formal tone.

"Everyone, let me reintroduce her. Sequence 9, Lawyer, Katsura Hinagiku."

Those who understood what the Sequence meant immediately turned their attention to Hinagiku.

Especially those who were familiar with her, they all looked at her with an expression that seemed to say, "Of course it's you."

Nagi silently walked over to Hinagiku's side.

"I knew you'd end up here."

"As expected… Nagi-chan, were you really that sure I'd join?"

"Yeah, I was pretty sure. That's just your nature. When you see someone in trouble, you always get involved. When you saw Isumi and me in that circle, plus Ren's little flair for mystery, there's no way your curiosity and concern wouldn't pull you in."

After saying this with a knowing look, Nagi let out a small sigh.

"Even though Ren tried to stop you from digging deeper, you still came charging in on your own."

"So, was this the student council trio's idea? Those three idiots were too scared to come themselves, so they sent you, the brave one, to scout it out?"

"…"

Bullseye. A flicker of embarrassment crossed Hinagiku's face.

Seeing her reaction, Nagi confirmed her guess.

"That settles it. Now that those three saw you walk over, they probably figured you joined too. They'll be heading my way next."

"Oh no…"

Hinagiku was genuinely concerned now.

"Don't worry."

Ren waved it off casually.

"I knew your sister and those three were watching. I put up an illusion around us. They didn't see us come back together, so they're not focused on us."

He had predicted this situation and prepared accordingly.

Hinagiku and Nagi glanced toward the trio, only to see Katsura Yukiji and the three idiots staring at an exit on the other side of the hall.

Confirmed. No risk of exposure—for now.

"Miss Katsura, it's up to you to make them drop the idea of coming over. Treat this as your first chance to practice your abilities."

Hinagiku understood that this was her opportunity to put her newly obtained Lawyer power to use.

Still, her first targets being her own friends made her feel a bit complicated.

But she didn't reject the responsibility. After all, some things had to be handled personally.

If those three idiots got involved, things would definitely become chaotic. Especially considering how loud and careless they were.

Just imagining it gave Hinagiku a headache.

If she could keep things quiet, she would.

Once she had calmed her thoughts, she turned her focus to Nagi.

"So, what ability did you get, Nagi-chan?"

Nagi didn't answer with words. Instead, she raised the necklace hanging around her neck.

Only when lifted could one see the special gem attached. Inside the blue gem was a faint silhouette of wings.

Then, she held out both hands. An invisible wind began to swirl between them.

"Wind…"

Hinagiku instantly understood the nature of Nagi's power.

It came from a different system than her own. Unlike her more abstract ability, Nagi's was far more direct and tangible.

"I control elemental force. It's not as complex as the Sequences Ren uses, but through proper training, I can reach a respectable level."

Nagi didn't go into detail about just how far she could push that power.

Hinagiku had only just become a believer, and it would be too much for her to digest everything at once. If she wanted to know more, she'd have to spend time learning.

"Not just me, though. Maria too."

Maria, who had been standing quietly behind Nagi, also lifted her necklace, revealing an orange gem lined with golden patterns forming the shape of rock.

So, their growth could literally be seen.

And as for their "clear goal"...

After seeing the power Nagi possessed, Hinagiku finally understood where her newfound determination came from.

As for the deeper reason behind that motivation—she didn't say it, but Hinagiku could guess it was something extremely personal.

She didn't pry. Some things had to be discovered gradually.

"…No wonder you transferred schools."

"Transferring, huh… yeah, that's a whole other story."

But Hinagiku noticed how Nagi immediately shut down the topic. It was obvious this wasn't something to be discussed here.

Hinagiku didn't press. Instead, she glanced toward her sister and the trio of fools.

"We'll talk more later. For now, I need to go handle those three."

Nagi also looked over at them, exasperated.

"There's nothing really wrong with Asakaze and Hanabishi. But Segawa? She's a full-on idiot. If she finds out, the whole world will know by morning."

Hinagiku nodded in agreement.

"That's exactly it. Those three aren't suited to know. At least, not yet."

Nagi nodded slightly, then shifted her gaze to Yukiji.

"Yukiji might already be suspecting something. You've known each other for years."

"Yeah…"

Hinagiku knew that lying to her sister wouldn't be easy. Ability aside, it was more of a gut feeling—Yukiji would see through her lies instantly.

"Yukiji can be loud at times, but when it comes to you, she's surprisingly cautious."

Nagi's comment was blunt, but not wrong.

"…Yeah. I'll talk to my sister later."

There was no other option. To maintain secrecy for now, she had to get her sister to hold back.

Hinagiku didn't want to deal with her like this, but knowing her personality, if she didn't take this step, Yukiji might blurt something out drunk one night.

(To be continued.)

Special thanks to paladar blade for sponsoring this extra chapter 🎉🎉🎉
Chapter 432: Strange Feeling

With the illusion spell still active on her body, Hinagiku quietly returned to the hall from outside.

The four who had been keeping an eye on the main entrance immediately noticed her.

They all turned to watch as Hinagiku made her way back to them.

The trio of fools moved in closer without hesitation.

"Just as we expected, he knows a lot, but refuses to reveal even the smallest bit. He's clearly an insider, but unwilling to say anything," Hinagiku stated bluntly.

"The insider part wasn't wrong. He admitted it himself. But the issue is, he won't say anything important," Risa Asakaze muttered, more frustrated than surprised.

"Risa, do you think someone in that position wouldn't be warned against saying too much?" Kasumi Aika asked, shaking her head with a sigh before rephrasing the question.

"Well... yeah, that makes sense."

Risa nodded after thinking it over.

"So, don't you think revealing anything would just invite trouble? If he knows something and still chooses not to speak, what does that tell you?"

"Yeah, yeah. I get it."

"Then why are you even asking?"

Aika rolled her eyes at her.

"You think everyone's like you? Reckless and fearless when it comes to taking risks? Most people aren't."

"Besides, this isn't something you can deal with just because you say you can."

"Do you think Sakuya has fewer connections than you? Even she was told not to talk. What makes you think others are allowed?"

Risa had no comeback. Deep down, she understood just how serious the secret was.

Even Aika had been unusually tight-lipped about it. That alone showed how heavy the matter really was.

"Then how come we're even allowed to know any of this?" asked Izumi Segawa.

"They didn't forbid you from investigating. If you can figure it out on your own, then that's your ability. This is a screening process," Aika answered directly.

And that was the truth. Some secrets weren't blocked off entirely. If you could uncover them with your own ability, that meant you were qualified.

Aika had said this because she suspected that Hinagiku had already been invited in.

It wasn't just a hunch. Aika knew who Hinagiku was most likely to pursue when investigating.

And since Ren was the one hiding the most, and at the center of everything, she could only assume that Hinagiku had targeted him from the start.

But now, seeing that Hinagiku had come back seemingly empty-handed... Was that really possible?

No. It wasn't.

Especially when Hinagiku started making excuses and downplaying things, Aika pieced it all together.

Hinagiku had found out the truth. She just wasn't saying it.

And if she wasn't letting anyone else approach Ren, then it meant only one thing—Hinagiku had already become part of their circle.

But all she said was, "He didn't elaborate."

"Didn't say anything important. Still tight-lipped," she added with a frown, frustration creeping into her voice as if disappointed at hitting a dead end.

"I thought he'd be a good starting point. Guess I'll have to start with Nagi-chan instead…"

Seeing her act so disheartened, Risa, Miki, and Izumi all started to feel a little guilty.

Only Yukiji watched the scene with subtle amusement.

She never imagined her usually upright and honest little sister would start spouting such obvious lies.

It was too suspicious.

To Yukiji, the moment Hinagiku said she'd "start with Nagi," she knew it was fake.

That was the last person Hinagiku would try to use as a breakthrough. It went against her instincts.

And the fact that Hinagiku made that her go-to excuse told Yukiji everything.

Her little sister had clearly been pulled into the whole thing already.

But as her older sister, Yukiji decided not to call her out on it.

Instead, she watched silently, thinking it was probably better this way.

If Hinagiku had stepped into something serious, knowing her personality, it wasn't for selfish reasons.

More likely than not, it was because she wanted to pull someone else out of it—most likely Nagi.

That was just how Hina was.

Yukiji sighed quietly to herself and continued observing from the side.

"This isn't your fault," Risa said gently.

She knew it wasn't fair to pin this on Hinagiku. After all, they were the ones who had roped her into it.

"Yeah, you didn't do anything wrong," Izumi echoed, trying to ease the mood.

"Miki, say something too."

"Huh? Oh, yeah. It's not your fault."

Though she said it, Miki felt something was off. Still, she decided to follow along and support her friend.

With the three of them comforting her together, Hinagiku's expression relaxed. Her mood noticeably improved, and before long, the group returned to quietly discussing how to gather more intel.

The banquet's atmosphere hadn't been thrown off by any of this. Everything continued in an orderly manner.

The police placed heavy importance on this event. After all, it had led to them catching Phantom Thief Kid twice in a row. The only regret was that the thief managed to rescue his assistant.

Still, even as the cruise ship approached Tokyo Port and the banquet neared its end, Kid never made another appearance.

This, strangely enough, frustrated the police even more.

They were convinced that Kid and his assistant were hiding somewhere among the guests. But the thief didn't act, as if he was deliberately staying quiet just to throw them off.

(To be continued.)