The Other Ayanokoji

Chapter 66

I boredly threw my knives at the target. The target has been completely worn down. I threw another knife and the target crumbled. 

"Uh." I sigh. Amasawa enters my space, commanding attention. 

"Hello, senpai~ You look a little sad today." Ichika's face is full of curiousity. "Yeah, everything's fine," I replied, trying to sound as vulnerable as possible. "It's just... I've been thinking about this whole traitor situation lately, and it's been bothering me."

Ichika's expression shifted, her curiosity now mixed with concern. "Oh, Ryo-chan, I get it. It's been a stressful time for all of us."

I nodded, as if reassured by Ichika's words. "I know, Ichika. And that's why I wanted to talk to you. You've always been so perceptive and quick-witted. I could really use your help."

Ichika leaned in, taking off my glasses. "Of course, Ryo-chan! I'm here for you. What do you need?" I sighed, feigning relief. "I just... I want to figure out who might be working against us, you know? It's been keeping me up at night."

Ichika's playful demeanor softened, and she placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "I understand, Ryo-chan. We'll get through this together. Let's put our heads together and find out who's causing all this trouble." 

"Amasawa," I began, my voice low and filled with uncertainty, "do you ever get the feeling that someone among us might not be entirely... honest?"

Ichika's dark red eyes bore into my blue ones with a thoughtful expression. "Honestly, Ryo-chan, this place is full of secrets and hidden agendas. It wouldn't surprise me if there were a few snakes in the grass."

I nodded, pretending to share Ichika's concerns. "Exactly! That's what I've been thinking. But how do we figure out who it might be without causing more chaos?"

Ichika leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "You know, Ryo-chan, there are ways to get people to reveal their true colors without them even realizing it. It's all about playing their game but one step ahead."

Ichika was subtly dropping hints. "What kind of ways, Ichika?"

Ichika smiled, her expression mischievous. "Well, you have to make them believe you trust them completely. Then, you subtly steer the conversation in a way that reveals their intentions. It's like a game of cat and mouse, Ryo-chan. You let them think they're the cat, but you're the one holding the strings."

I nodded. "That sounds... tricky. But I trust your judgment, Ichika. You're really good at this kind of thing."

Ichika's smile widened, and she patted my shoulder reassuringly. "Don't worry, Ryo-chan. If you ever need help with a plan, you know where to find me."

I watch as Ichika leave, and sigh. Kage appears out of my shadow. "Who is the traitor?" I look at Kage. "It will take time." 

Kage's shadowy form quivers. "It's not Renji, right?" I sigh. "You can never be too cautious." 

~Time skip~

 It was almost the end of the second semester, but still winter.