The smirk on Tomoko's lips was undeniable.

However, when she next spoke...

"Then again, I suppose Shimamaru-san's capabilities are far too meager to fool a monster like Hasshaku-sama," she added, tapping her walking stick lightly on the ground as she spoke. "At least, when used on herself. Ibaraki-san has the features of an oni, but if those features are concealed sufficiently..."

The blonde's smirk broadened.

"Would anyone be able to tell the difference between her and a human child? I don't think so."

Of course, a great deal of this plan hinged on the perpetrator truly being Hasshaku-sama. When it came down to it, even though Tomoko was considerably certain about this hypothesis, the fact remained that it wasn't impossible that another culprit was behind this. It was the edge of uncertainty that could always cut through likelihood like a knife.

But as of now, it was the best option.

"Shimamaru-san will use her illusions to conceal Ibaraki-san's nature, and we'll head into the territory Hasshaku-sama seems to be patrolling going off of her previous victims," explained Tomoko, "Since we can't determine much else about her actions right now, and speed is of the essence, we'll have to do our best."

Ideally, the sight of an ordinary child wandering alone would be enough for the phantom's attention to be captured.

"If the children are alive, it's likely she's keeping them somewhere. It's possibly an imaginary zone or a closed space, but we can follow her back to it regardless," added the Intermediary, "If they're not, then... we still have a duty to carry out."

[hr]

It was late when Tomoko insisted her plan be carried out. She had located an area ideal for their purposes, with the help of some of the local yokai, an alleyway near a vending machine. From there, it was simply a matter of dulling their presence and waiting while Ibaraki-san did her best to look like a confused child who was completely alone and Shimamaru-san did her best to uphold her illusions on threat of having her tail shaved.

Now all they had to do was wait. As long as Hasshaku-sama made an appearance, even if she fled, then they would be able to pursue her.

[@RolePlayerRoxas][@Raineh Daze][@Pyromania99][@TheHangedMan][@Rune_Alchemist]