Kurumu clasped her hands at her waist as she regarded the empty stage. The murmur of the students filled the large gymnasium as they lined up with their homeroom teachers.

"Do you know what this is about, Teacher?"

Mrs. Sunao was wearing a gray jacket over a white blouse which was tucked in a matching gray, pencil skirt. Even in heels, the teacher remained shorter than Kurumu. The tiny woman turned a frown upon Ichida, shaking her head. Her ashen gray hair was drawn back in a long tail which she had twisted and pinned several times to keep it from falling below her narrow shoulders.

"Nobody mentioned this in the lounge before classes began."

This was no surprise considering the teacher had been in the middle of her lesson when Lord Chiki had spoken over the PA, demanding everyone to report to the gymnasium at once.

"There are guards stationed at every exit."

Kumiko nodded at the pair of men guarding the door near the equipment storage room flanking the passage to the girls' locker room. One was a husky, dark haired brute while the other was a whole head taller than his companion and had long, silvery tresses.

"What do you think is going on?"

Kurumu shrugged at Satsuki whom stood between her and Deshi.

"He's obviously going to arrest the Headmaster."

Yukari stared at the podium with her tiny hands balled into fists.

"Will that mean things will go back to normal?"

Kumiko snorted at Senyou's hopeful comment.

"Doubtful. He'll probably put us under martial law."

"What's that like?"

Kumiko glanced back at Abe. She rolled her eyes, shaking her head.

"It's annoying. The residents of Aranoiji have to put up with it at least once a year whenever a major crime happens against a kitsune. There's a curfew and dozens of people get randomly detained for questioning until the matter is resolved."

Kurumu brushed the locks about Yukari's ear, causing the witch to flinch. She smiled apologetically at the witch's confused expression.

"Calm down."

"I am calm."

Deciding not to argue, Kurumu sighed. Juri was not the only new student absent from their class. Both the kendo and fencing clubs had joined the boycott, since Tokeru and Asakira from class one were absent along with Hisakata and Tandoku. And for some unknown reason, Nakai was missing. Kurumu had no idea if this was a decision by the karate club, unaware of whom else was in the club.

There were only four guys and four girls present in class one today. Kurumu knew Hayate, Tatakai and Tanimoto. She had no idea whom this other guy was with the short, dark hair. It was eerie to have such an unobstructed view of the stage.

She took in a shallow breath as the exterior door in front of the equipment storage room on their left was tugged open. Lord Chiki strode into the room with an entourage of six guards. These were different from the four she had seen him with the last two times. Two were redheads like the elder, though one had his lip pierced and pale blue studs lining his right ear lobe. The other had longer, wavy hair which touched his broad shoulders.

There was a platinum blond in their ranks with his hair swept up into an offside point. The tallest of this group was a massive, sculpted man whom looked like he could burst out of his uniform if he flexed his muscles. He had shaggy dark hair which hid his ears.

The last two seemed the least intimidating. The shortest one was a bald guy with a serpent tattoo etched down the back of his head. The other was a slender, bluish haired man with an aloof air about him. The guards followed Lord Chiki up the short flight of steps onto the stage. The prefectural officer made a straight line to the podium, favoring the crowd with a smile as his guards took places about him.

"Greetings. I want to thank you all for your attendance. I know these times have been a test of your patience, but I assure you that Fairy Tale has persevered in the pursuit of justice for this community."

Lord Chiki paused to adjust the microphone on the podium.

"It was my intention to expose Headmaster Mikogami Tenmei for his malicious actions and subsequently arrest him under charges of destruction of evidence, obstruction of justice, robbery and murder. But it seems he has decided to flee Mononoke."

Lord Chiki regarded them with a stern expression.

"This proves his guilt. If any of you have information concerning the whereabouts of this dangerous criminal, I implore you to confess to one of my men. It is your civil duty to see that justice is served."

The officer wagged a finger at the assembly.

"I'm not asking for heroics. There is no reason for any of you to attempt to apprehend this deplorable fiend. That also applies to the faculty. I need everyone to pull together and prioritize the continuation of the education of our fine children in this time of crisis."

"What exactly are you expecting us to do?"

Lord Chiki turned slightly to address Mr. Hirata whom must be standing with his homeroom in the front of the senior aisle on the far side of the gym. Even with the reduced number of second years lined up in a column down the center of the gym, Kurumu had no clear line of vision of the seniors.

"I am declaring a state of emergency. The school will be shut down after the conclusion of today. Nobody is allowed through the barrier without my permission. Unfortunately this means that all student athletics shall be suspended until the fugitive is found."

"That sucks."

Kurumu smirked at Asuka's protest.

"What does that mean for us?"

Lord Chiki smiled at Ms. Nakamura whom stood with her homeroom at the front of the second years. The buxom kappa had her olive hair pulled up in a ponytail which touched the collar of her periwinkle blouse. Her loose top was tucked in a long, navy skirt which brushed against her ankles.

"I understand that each of the dorms have six study rooms. To reduce the amount of travel required of our students, I propose that we segregate our first and second years by gender and combine them. So the girls of classes one and two would become the new class one. And the boys of classes one and two would become the new class two. Teachers will travel as required to maintain their normal schedule."

"That might work, but what is the plan for handling the seniors?"

Lord Chiki turned slightly at Mr. Hirata's remark.

"We shall make use of the dining hall."

The wheeze of Mr. Maruyama was distinguishable in the murmurs that followed.

"We can't do that."

"We can fit the entire school body in this gymnasium. I assure you that it is possible."

"Possible, yes. Practical, no."

"I agree with Mr. Maruyama. It would be too distracting for our students to have multiple classes being taught in an open environment."

"And what would you propose, Ms. Kurihara?"

"That we continue teaching the seniors here."

"We have seniors whom are participating in this boycott due to the school being seen as an unsafe environment. That is not an acceptable solution."

Mr. Fujita snickered. The silver haired teacher of class two had on a pinstripe shirt and black slacks.

"Neither is trying to stuff a whole class into one of those dorm study rooms."

Ms. Nakamura nodded enthusiastically.

"Very true. From what I remember, those rooms could probably hold a dozen students at best."

"I have seen the rooms recently and can assure you that you can fit a whole class into one of them."

"Not with desks."

"Our students can manage without desks for the next couple weeks."

Ms. Kuwabara frowned, shaking her vibrant, pink curls. The English teacher from class three was garbed in a mint, long sleeved blouse tucked in a dark green, pleated skirt which fell halfway down her calves.

"But we have midterms. We can't be conducting tests in those cramped study rooms."

"I hope we can have the matter resolved by then. If not, we will have to postpone testing."

Mr. Fujita growled, shaking his head.

"You can't be serious. October is a busy month. If we postpone testing, we will have to cancel things like Sports Day and the Cultural Festival."

"I am aware that such a sacrifice might be necessary for the safety of our students."

Several students muttered their protests about that possibility.

"What about electives?"

Mrs. Itou stood with Ms. Nekonome's homeroom behind Kurumu. The stern woman was wearing a pink, short sleeved blouse which was tucked in khaki capris.

"All electives, club activities and gym shall be suspended immediately until further notice. We shall focus on what is crucial to our students."

Mrs. Itou scowled, glancing aside as the muttering continued.

"You still haven't addressed how we shall handle our seniors."

"I am open to suggestions, Mr. Hirata. Perhaps you could host outdoor classes near their suites?"

"That's almost as bad as your first suggestion."

"We can discuss this in the teachers' lounge upon the conclusion of classes today."

More bickering ensued from teachers and students alike. Lord Chiki's visage darkened as he regarded the assembly. He smacked the podium which was amplified by the nearby microphone.

"Enough! This is not an open forum. What shall happen from here on out is that you must be present at roll call which shall be held at your dining hall during each meal. Failure to do so means I will have my men check for you in your dorm. If you are not there, you shall be reported missing. Please understand that this is for your protection."

Lord Chiki huffed, backing up a step from the podium.

"After breakfast, each of you shall go to your designated place of learning. Seniors will be notified of this location when the faculty and I have reached an agreement upon where that shall be. You will attend all of your crucial classes before being released for a late lunch. You will then return to your dorms to do as you please until reporting in for dinner at seven. This shall continue until the Headmaster and all of his villainous colleagues are captured."

"Weekends too?"

"Yes, Ms. Nakamura. We have several students whom have been too frightened to attend school. It is your duty as educators to help catch them up."

Kurumu grimaced at the thought of having classes on the weekends. Nothing interesting ever happened during class unless it was a study hall. Sometimes her home ec and gym classes could be fun, but those were getting removed.

"Now on to other important matters. There is one faculty member among us whom I would greatly appreciate it if she would quietly surrender herself to my care."

Lord Chiki looked up with a smug grin.

"Would Ms. Yoshino Inari please come to the stage?"

There were many hushed remarks as heels announced the approach of the teacher. Ms. Yoshino strolled up the aisle between the first and second years. The proud kitsune was sporting a white jacket over a black blouse which was tucked in white slacks. Her auburn tresses were fixed up in a pompadour with a braided tail down her back which ended in a white bow.

"Good. I'm glad you didn't try to run."

Ms. Yoshino glanced in Kurumu's direction as she passed by Mrs. Sunao. There was anger smoldering in those yellow eyes. The teacher came to a halt at the end of the aisle, crossing her arms below her ample bosom. She cocked her head.

"What is it that you want?"

"Your confession."

"Not happening."

"Are you resisting arrest?"

Ms. Yoshino snorted, stalking forward a few more paces.

"You have to attempt arrest for me to resist it."

"Come on up, my dear. Allow my men to secure you."

With a huff, the kitsune stalked over to the passage to the girls' locker room. Her heels marked her progress, changing in pitch when she ascended the short flight of steps onto the stage. She proceeded back to the front where the two redheads were waiting with shackles and a collar.

"So what are you wanting me to confess to?"

"Murder."

Ms. Yoshino snorted, holding her wrists out so the guy with the jewelry could shackle them. The other redhead slipped behind her, securing the collar about her throat.

"You can have your guards beat and rape me, but I'll never admit to that."

"I imagine you wouldn't. You've always been a liar."

"We're all liars, Elder Chiki. But I'm no murderer."

"We shall see about that."

Lord Chiki turned back to the assembly. He gestured to the teacher as a chain was clipped to secure the shackles to the collar.

"This woman is an accessory to murder. She helped the Headmaster destroy vital evidence to uncover the identity of the killer of the three missing girls."

"You have no proof that those girls are dead."

"Of course not. You burned their bodies into ashes."

"And you can't prove that either."

Lord Chiki sneered at her.

"Note her defiance. She doesn't deny it. She claims I can't prove it. That is not the testimony of someone innocent of this crime."

"Go ahead and take me to trial. You know your accusation won't hold up in court."

"It will if you confess."

Ms. Yoshino laughed, shaking her head.

"You're a madman, chasing phantoms. Why don't you try finding these girls instead of making up false conclusions to suit your agenda?"

Lord Chiki's visage darkened.

"Don't mock me, Child. You have sullied my name far too long with your lies. It is long overdue for you to be exposed for the vile creature that you are."

"Funny. I should say the same about you."

"Enough with the insults. Mr. Inazuma. Bring the prisoner in."

The tall guard with the silvery tresses bowed at Lord Chiki's gesture. He pushed open the door, allowing two more guards entry. It was the wild eyed guard with the shaggy hair and the short brute with the bangs over his eyes. Each guard held the end of a chain which was affixed to a wrist of the bloodied, naked woman they dragged inside.

Kurumu gasped upon realizing it was Ms. Rin. Her bunny ears were long and limp in her chocolate tresses. Her face was bruised and barely recognizable. By the slight loll of her head, it was difficult to say if the woman was aware of her surroundings.

"What have you done?!"

Lord Chiki laughed as the two redheads restrained Ms. Yoshino. The prefectural officer gestured at the two men as they dragged the limp Ms. Rin closer to the stage.

"This criminal attempted to escape my prison. We had to break both of her legs to prevent her from trying such foolishness again."

Ms. Yoshino's voice broke.

"Baby. Are you okay?"

"She will be once you confess."

Ms. Yoshino turned angrily, wagging her shackled hands at him.

"Fuck you!"

"You burned the bodies of three young girls."

"As if you fucking care!"

Lord Chiki scowled.

"As a parent, I assure you that I most certainly do."

"You are a fucking monster!"

"Can you imagine the pain of a parent to have their child destroyed? Probably not. You're too busy taking comfort in the arms of another woman."

Ms. Yoshino snarled, lunging at him. The two redheads struggled to hold her by the chains attached to her collar and shackles.

"You destroy people. That should be you."

Lord Chiki huffed, puffing out his chest as he grabbed the sides of his jacket.

"I am being patient, Child. I've already been informed by Mr. Utsubari that the bodies of those three girls were in your possession. I am not a fool. You were ordered by the Headmaster to dispose of them."

"You beat a false confession out of my student."

"Your beloved Headmaster has already abandoned you. There is no further reason to cover up his lies."

"Fuck him! And fuck you!"

Lord Chiki growled, pointing at the wild eyed guard.

"Hit her!"

The guard snickered, promptly complying with the order. The teacher made a slight groan as her head rocked back under the blow.

"I swear that if you touch her again, I will kill you!"

"Lord Chiki. Perhaps we should do this elsewhere."

Lord Chiki huffed at the silvery haired guard's suggestion.

"That won't be necessary. Unlike criminals, we don't have to operate in the shadows."

Ms. Yoshino laughed hysterically with tears in her eyes.

"Oh really?! Have you started raping little girls in front of their parents now?!"

Lord Chiki slapped the teacher across the face hard enough to make her stagger. She went silent for a moment, but started to giggle. She turned her head back up at him with a bloody lip.

"What will it take for you to confess to your crimes?"

"Those parents have nothing now. Do you understand that? You took away their rights to see their departed daughters properly off."

Lord Chiki scowled when the defiant teacher spit on him. He promptly turned about and walked to the edge of the stage. Hopping down, he strode with fierce purpose towards the guards holding Ms. Rin.

"It seems you don't understand their loss. Allow me to demonstrate."

Murder is not something a normal person expects to witness. This moment when Lord Chiki set Ms. Rin on fire felt so surreal. It was like a dream. A very cruel, horrible dream.

Most students gasped and fell back a step. Even the guards holding Ms. Rin's chains jerked out of harm's way as the bound woman screamed in agony.

A naked Ms. Yoshino blinked beside Lord Chiki, shoving him aside as Ms. Rin went silent. The kitsune threw her arms about her lover, whom suddenly erupted in a blue blaze. The teacher cried out as the form of Ms. Rin collapsed into nothingness.

In a blur, the unrestrained Ms. Yoshino lunged at Lord Chiki. Her cry of rage was silenced by a thunderous clap which boomed across the gymnasium, shattering the windows on both sides. Glass rained down as Ms. Yoshino was thrown across the room like a rag doll. The silvery haired guard stalked forward with electric arcs dancing across his fingertips.

"Seize her."

The pair of guards at the far exit of the gym by the seniors quickly moved to apprehend the limp kitsune.

"Go with them, Mr. Inazuma. Hit her again if she wakes."

The silvery haired guard was obviously displeased, but bowed slightly.

An awed silence fell over the assembly as the guards hurried to secure and remove Ms. Yoshino from the gymnasium. Lord Chiki slowly walked away, making deliberate steps down the passage and up the stairs to the stage. He methodically approached the podium as if nothing unusual had transpired.

With the shock gone, several girls began to sob. An overwhelming surge of sorrow and loss flooded into her as more acknowledged the reality before them.

"I am sorry."

Lord Chiki paused. There was regret in his tone but no remorse.

"Now that Ms. Yoshino has been apprehended, it is only a matter of time before she confesses to her crimes. I do believe we shall soon find justice for those girls."

Nobody responded. All the teachers stood there, either in shock or in tears.

"There is another small matter that must be addressed. As Ms. Yoshino is the advisor of the PSC, I need the testimonies of all the members of her club."

Lord Chiki paused. He fished a folded slip of paper out of pocket and smoothed it out on the podium.

"Please come forward when I call your name. Ms. Hineri Keito. Ms. Deshi Deshiko. Mr. Umizake Aoi. Ms. Meirowasa Tokori. Ms. Nazohashi Tora. Ms. Unari Satsuki. Ms. Sawayaka Mikomi."

A hand touched Kurumu's shoulder, breaking her out of this detached moment. Tora gave her shoulder a squeeze before patting Yukari's shoulder.

"Hey. I have my phone."

"Do we have to go up there?"

"Yes. We go."

Deshi swung her staff off her shoulders and stepped by a trembling Mrs. Sunao. Satsuki turned pleading eyes on them. Tora stepped over to pat Satsuki's shoulder.

"I think the worst is over. Come on."

Satsuki whimpered but fell in step with Tora. The two walk slowly in Deshi's wake but soon joined the foreign girl at the base of the stage.

"I'm telling you. The Headmaster should have let Ms. Hitori kill him."

"He's gone crazy."

Kurumu shivered at Kumiko's statement. She glanced aside as motion caught her eye. Tokori was walking alongside a confused Mikomi. The dark, silky haired class rep held Tokori's hand. Not far behind them was Umizake, betraying no signs of concern.

"You better not start executing students or we are going to have a problem."

Lord Chiki blinked. He frowned at the scowling Mr. Fujita.

"I beg your pardon."

"You heard me. If anything happens to these kids, you won't make it to the trial."

"Are you threatening me?"

Mr. Fujita sneered.

"I'm talking to a man whom murdered a teacher in front of hundreds of witnesses. You're a dead man."

Lord Chiki straightened up.

"My actions will be proven to be justified. I assure you."

"Oh fuck off, you kitsune prick."

Lord Chiki shook his head.

"I swear. That Headmaster certainly knows how to hire role models to teach our future generation."

An uneasy silence followed as Lord Chiki looked down at the six first years gathered at the stage. Cocking his head, he favored them a frown.

"Where is Ms. Hineri Keito?"

The assembled first year girls glanced at each other, shrugging and shaking their heads. Umizake simply crossed his arms.

"Ms. Hineri Keito?"

"She isn't at school today."

The call came from the senior aisle. Lord Chiki frowned again.

"Is that so?"

There was a pause as Lord Chiki dwelled upon this. He then glanced at the first years.

"Would Ms. Hineri Kumiko join us instead?"

Kurumu shivered as Kumiko let out a slight whimper. Her lip trembled as she shook her head.

"Go, Ms. Hineri."

Kumiko turned wide eyes on Mrs. Sunao whom was cowering.

"Why do you need her?"

Lord Chiki turned his gaze upon Satsuki.

"I simply do, Ms. Unari. Do you have a problem with that?"

Satsuki shook her head. She looked like she wanted to respond but Tora placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Ms. Hineri."

Ms. Shuzen held out a hand to the stunned girl. Standing with class one, the vampire was dressed in a crimson blouse and glossy black skirt which ended shy of her pale knees

"Come with me."

Kumiko swallowed, placing her hand in the teacher's hand. The woman started walking at a brisk pace, forcing the girl to recover quickly. In seconds they were with the others.

"Thank you, Ms. Shuzen."

"The girls are frightened, Mr. Chiki."

"I am aware. This is standard procedure, I assure you. Detain all whom might have overheard treachery. Question them for a coherent story."

Lord Chiki smiled, turning his attention upon the girls.

"I know this is all quite confusing. Especially to you, Ms. Sawayaka. But since I have detained the Meirowasa family, I felt it would be inappropriate for me to send you alone to an empty home."

"Why would you arrest my family?"

"I've detained them, Ms. Meirowasa. Just as I intend to do to all of you. It is not an arrest. No charges are being made against any of you at this time."

"What exactly are you wanting from us?"

"Testimonies, Ms. Nazohashi. Nothing more. My guards shall escort you to the prison for now until we have everything sorted out."

Lord Chiki turned and gestured at the six guards whom remained on the stage. They nodded and quickly retreated to the stairs.

"Are you okay, Sir?"

"Yes. There is one other list of students I would like to question. It pertains to your newspaper club."

"I object."

Lord Chiki flinched at Ms. Shuzen's quick response.

"Mr. Aono and Ms. Kurono are property of the Shuzen Estate. Ms. Akashiya is a daughter of the president of your Fairy Tale."

"I still require them-"

"No."

Lord Chiki frowned.

"I am the prefectural officer-"

"If you wish to make the President of Fairy Tale your enemy, then I shall regard that as an act of treason and take your life now."

"You don't have the authority."

"I am being civil, Lord Chiki. I am here expressly for the purpose of watching over these children."

A twitch touched the corner of his lip. There was a long pause as his guards stationed themselves around the seven first years and Ms. Shuzen.

"I am within my rights to question them."

"Unless I see written permission from the president, I will not allow you to detain them."

Lord Chiki took in a deep breath. Picking up the paper, he folded it up before returning it to his pocket.

"Fine. I shall detain you until I have that written permission."

He looked up from the podium and nodded to the stoic woman.

"Will that be acceptable or shall I order my men to apprehend you and the newspaper club regardless of your protests?"

"Do you want to find out what happens if you do that?"

It was an unfamiliar voice from the senior aisle. Footsteps sounded as the speaker approached the front. Kurumu glimpsed a buxom woman with long, flowing black hair.

"And you are?"

"Kiyomizu Hori, homeroom teacher of senior class nine. If Ms. Shuzen goes with you, will you agree to leave this school at once?"

"For the time being."

"Fair enough. If you would be so kind, Ms. Shuzen."

Ms. Shuzen nodded and the guards prompted the first years to move. The group made their way to the same door Ms. Yoshino had been dragged out. Once the group had left the gymnasium, Lord Chiki took in a deep breath amplified by the microphone. He looked out at the assembly.

"That is all. You may return to your classes."

"Alright. Everybody put your butts in your seats so we can get started."

Kurumu frowned as Coach Yaisoku made her way over to the podium. The tennis instructor had her auburn tresses pulled back in a long ponytail that ended at her rump. Being a gym teacher, she was allowed to wear more casual clothes. Coach Yaisoku had switched to baggy clothes to better conceal her engorged status. The hooded sweatshirt she had on today was the school colors with red insignia of Yokai Academy on her swollen left breast. This and the matching pants could be bought in the school store for those wanting to show their school spirit.

"Where is Mrs. Itou?"

"Mrs. Itou isn't capable of teaching today. I'm filling in for her because I was silly enough to show up early for work only to discover that my gym class was canceled."

"Was she arrested?"

"Not to my knowledge."

"You don't know?"

Coach Yaisoku sighed, flipping open the portfolio she had placed on the podium.

"I said I came in early. For me, that's before ten. Mrs. Sunao told me that Mrs. Itou went home after Lord Chiki murdered Ms. Rin in front of everyone. And that was after Mr. Hayate stopped in the teachers' lounge to let me know there was nobody teaching his second period history class."

"If Mrs. Sunao knew that, why didn't they have someone covering for Mrs. Itou?"

"Because Mrs. Sunao didn't know that until the the students in class three told her about Mrs. Itou's absence. And Mr. Nagamushi and Mrs. Sunao were covering for Ms. Shuzen for second and third periods, so we're all kind of stressed."

The tennis coach wagged a finger at them.

"And I don't want to hear any comments about Mrs. Itou being irresponsible. She cared a lot for Ms. Rin and Ms. Yoshino. I know I'm not going to be coming back after today since they canceled gym classes."

"Did you eat a human over summer break?"

The woman glanced at Abe. She shook her head as she tugged sheets out of her portfolio.

"That's not something we should talk about."

"But it's murder, right? There are ways for a jorougumo to mate without it being lethal."

Coach Yaisoku sighed at his statement.

"There are ways around it but the risk on the mother increases. Or your baby will be stillborn."

"Is this the first time you've tried to have a child?"

Coach Yaisoku rolled her eyes. Stepping out from behind the podium, she walked over to hand two stapled worksheets to Wanibuchi and Yakihara before moving over to the next aisle.

"Yes. And she will be the only child I have."

She leaned over Deshi's vacant desk to give Ichida three sets of stapled worksheets.

"Take those to the two in the back."

Ichida nodded, getting up from his desk to pass the handouts to Yano and Osakebi. The tennis coach gave Yukari two sets which the witch promptly handed one back to Kurumu.

"That should keep my nagging mother quiet. You'd think having five granddaughters would be enough."

Abe managed a smile as he took a worksheet from the teacher. Kurumu glanced the stapled sheets over, noting it was a test.

"What is this?"

"This…"

Coach Yaisoku paused to hand off the last test to Senyou.

"… is a copy of a midterm for the first year history class from last year. You are more than welcome to take this home and study it. Classes one and three didn't get these nifty reference materials, so I don't want you to brag about having these. Share it if you absolutely can't keep this to yourselves."

Kurumu frowned as the woman returned to the podium.

"Is there anything else you want us to do?"

"I do have other ideas to keep you busy if you insist."

Kurumu slipped the test into her notebook for history, not seeing a reason to do this now.

"So… how long before you have your baby?"

"I'm about a month along so I have at least seven more to go."

"Will you be able to work the whole time?"

The woman chuckled, shaking her head.

"I'm guessing around late February it will become too uncomfortable for me to maintain my human appearance. Hopefully we will have someone available to look after my class by that point."

"Have you ever considered mating with a Tsuchigumo?"

The jorougumo frowned at Yukari.

"Those aren't native to northern Japan."

"You could find one if you wanted to."

"What's a Tsuchigumo?"

"It's a slightly different spider race, Mr. Abe. Unlike my kind which relies on using males of other species to have children, the Tsuchigumo can be either male or female."

"My Grandfather believes the two species could interbreed."

"Perhaps. But then Fairy Tale could call your babies monstrels. And I doubt mating with a Tsuchigumo would change my nutritional requirements to have a child safely."

As Yukari pouted, Senyou grimaced, glancing back at them.

"Man. It's tough being a guy."

Kurumu smiled as she leaned over to open up her schoolbag. She stuffed her notebook inside it.

"What do you think the classes which normally have fourth period gym are doing right now?"

"I understand that they are having their fifth period class."

"Will we be having lunch after this or are we skipping to our fifth period?"

"I believe we are having lunch as usual. The kitchen staff doesn't show up until the middle of third period. I doubt anyone informed them about a change in schedule."

"Do you think Lord Chiki will be executed for murder?"

Coach Yaisoku paused at Yukari's inquiry.

"Lord Chiki will argue that this was done in the name of justice. And it pains me to say this, but there's a decent chance he won't be punished for it."

"But he killed a teacher in front of the entire school!"

"So I'm told. I don't know if any of you are aware of this, but Kuyo was exonerated of his crimes and given the position of the prefectural officer of Nagano. We have two kitsune elders serving as judges in the Niigata court and the region commander is Elder Kenmei. If he had killed Inari… that might have gone poorly for him. But Odori… well… she's just a gyokuto."

"And this is what we call our justice system."

Coach Yaisoku smirked at Yukari's indignation.

"It is what it is. I'm hoping that he will at least be dismissed from his duties. I know Elder Kenmei might put another kitsune in Lord Chiki's place, but some of them aren't complete scumbags."

"The Headmaster should have let Ms. Hitori kill this man. There was no reason for Ms. Rin to die."

"I suggest that we refrain from rebellious chatter for now."

"Yea, Sendou. Are you trying to get arrested?"

Coach Yaisoku waved her hands at the anxious Abe.

"Since we have time to kill, I suggest that we do a paper."

Abe groaned as he slouched in his chair.

"Do we have to?"

"I'm not asking you to do something hard. Just a simple two page report on something related to history. It will help you clear your mind of this nasty business. And don't do something stupid like write the same sentence twenty times or use big kanji to fill up the page. Seriously think about the subject."

"Can't we work on the packets you gave out?"

The teacher nodded at Ichida.

"You may. I'm not grading these papers. But I want you to focus on your academics. Most of you can't do anything about this situation so worrying over it will only cause you senseless anxiety."

"Can't we keep chatting like this?"

Coach Yaisoku grinned at Kurumu.

"We've done more than enough talking for now. And it's too early to let you go for lunch so please work on something school related for the rest of the hour. I want silence until I hear that bell."

Kurumu grimaced, reaching over to fish her notebook back out of her schoolbag. What point was there for her to work on her academics? She was property of the Shuzen Estate. Even if she was a top student, what would she go to college for? It was not like she had any goals. The only thing she had wanted prior to her enrollment at Yokai was not to end up like her mother.

She turned her notebook all the way to the back and tore two sheets out. Without concerns of this being graded, Kurumu figured she could write about anything that resembled history. That had to be easier than going over an old test. Setting her notebook aside, she grabbed her pencil and clicked the bottom to push out more graphite.

Kurumu tapped the top of her paper as she mulled over what she wanted to write about. She glanced up at the teacher whom would soon become a mother. Coach Yaisoku was one of her mother's classmates. Just like Ms. Nekonome, Mizore's mother, Irewata's mother and Ms. Yumeito. These women knew things about her mother that she might never know. A history before she existed.

It would not be graded. And Ms. Yaisoku might appreciate this.

My mother didn't know her parents. They died when she was young shortly after moving into the small village of Hekitawa in the new Aga district. Since she resembled a normal human girl, the elders thought about leaving her with the humans but ultimately decided not to.

Ageha was taken in by a tengu family when she was three. I can't remember the family name, but I know she was with them for at least a decade. She wrote it in a letter to me so I can find out if you want. She said Hekitawa was too small to support a junior high but I know she said she went to one. I have no idea which one she went to but she had to drop out because she was a succubus.

I know that sounds weird but that's how it is. When a succubus hits puberty, her charm manifests. Most people assume it's something to do with our eyes. That if we look you in the eyes, we can charm a guy into doing whatever we want. And that's somewhat true. We can make someone do what we think they would be willing to do.

When my mother's charm manifested and she became more womanly, her adoptive father took a sexual interest in her. She was molested and eventually asked to leave by her adoptive mother.

Fairy Tale is always on the lookout for succubi. My mother was approached by Mrs. Shuzen, whom was not the President of Fairy Tale at the time. She was offered a job on the condition that she finish high school at Yokai Academy. That is how Ageha ended up here.

You probably know more about her high school years than I do. She fell in love with a young man whom was engaged to another girl. I don't know how much of this was love or biological attraction. That's another weird thing about being a succubus. You don't get to choose whom you can have a baby with. You have to get stupid lucky to find a compatible guy.

And it's obvious when you do. My mother was compatible with my father. After talking with other succubi whom work for Mrs. Shuzen, I understand that this is not something you want to pass up. I'm not saying my mother didn't love my father. But it's difficult to not be infatuated with a man whom makes your body tingle just with a look.

My mother was a simple person. I'm sure she believed it was love. So when he got married to the girl he was engaged to, she didn't allow that to stop her. I'm sure you and your friends tried to discourage her from throwing herself at my father. I imagine it was exhausting. It must be how my friends feel about me and how I behave with Tsukune. Perhaps this isn't love. But what else could love be?

Another thing about succubi is that we produce an opiate in our spit and in other places. While one or two kisses might be harmless, there is a chance a person can become addicted to us. I've subdued girls by kissing them deeply when they try to interfere with my plans. I don't know if my mother employed such strategies, but that might explain some things for you if it had ever happened.

And our charm is not limited to our gaze. I know for a fact that we can charm with touch and sound. A succubus whom really wants something to happen can make a person fall in love with her if she believes he will. I guess it's the case of repeating a lie enough times until it becomes true. You know my hair is actually much shorter than it appears. It's not that it quickly grew back over the summer. It might be another three or four months before I won't need an illusion to keep my ribbon in place.

Because my mother really wanted my father to love her, it eventually became true. She didn't want to work for Fairy Tale and wanted to run away with him. He convinced her to stay for the winter term exams so they could properly graduate before leaving that winter break to never come back.

I don't know where they went but I imagine they had tons of sex. Another fun fact about succubi is that we can't have children on our own due to the lack of a womb. We process the sperm of our destined mates into succubi sperm which we put into another woman.

I have no idea if my mother attempted to impregnate another woman in those first few months. About a week after insemination, a succubi becomes drunkenly amorous with other women. I guess it would be like when your natural instincts kicked in and you ate that man while mating. You do things that you wouldn't normally do because your body urges you forward and your mind is so muddled that you think it's the right thing to do.

Mrs. Shuzen found my mother pretty quickly. I don't know how. She got my mother in contact with Ms. Hajinai whom is an elder succubi whom helps succubi find mates and surrogates. I was carried in the womb of Ms. Garimasu, an undine. I was carried for eighteen weeks, which I understand the average pregnancy with a succubi child is twenty four. Due to my premature birth, I was kept for five weeks before I was given to Ageha.

I don't know when my mother decided my father was too dangerous to keep around. He was addicted to her opiate and she feared that he might molest me to satisfy his cravings. So she decided to take him back to Yukimura before I was even six months old. I have no memories of him. All I have is this ribbon which my mother claimed he gave to me when I was brought home to them. I don't even know if it's true, but I want to believe it is.

I remember very little about my early childhood. We settled in the city of Yonago in Tottori a year or so before I started school. My mother forgot to dye my hair black that first day. The teachers were so upset with me for ruining my hair. It was hard to make friends after that because it didn't take long for the rumors about my mother to circulate through the faculty.

My mother didn't have proper documentation to legitimately have me enrolled in school. So to get around this, Ageha used her natural assets to convince the male administration to turn a blind eye to my presence. I guess she thought she had given Fairy Tale the slip and didn't want them to find us by getting ourselves registered.

My mother whored herself out for everything. She never had an actual job. Every meal I ate, all the clothes I wore, and everything I owned was bought with money from sexual favors. I didn't understand what was going on, but I knew my mother wasn't like the other mothers whom picked their kids up from school. Those stay at home moms had a working father. I didn't have that so once I realized we needed money, I slowly came to realize how mom was getting it.

I was isolated because the teachers didn't feel the need to hide my mother's reputation from the other kids. If teachers hate you, the other kids will hate you. Because I was the daughter of a whore and must be a whore too, I was sexually assaulted at the end of my third grade year. I never told my mother about it, but I beat the snot out of the boy whom tried to do it. He was hospitalized. I was expelled. Afraid that Fairy Tale would find us, my mother moved us to Hino, a quieter village in the countryside.

We didn't live in Hino very long. Less than a year. My wings and tail came out a week or two before winter break of my fourth grade year. I was terrified when that happened since my silly mother had never thought she should tell me that I was not a human girl. I had no idea how to suppress this new body back to normal so I couldn't go back to school with humans.

Okay. I'm at two pages now. I hope you don't mind if this is longer since it doesn't look like anyone else is done and I don't know how close it is to the bell.

Anyways. My mother must have contacted Fairy Tale to locate a nearby monster village. We moved to Kengamine either in January or February. Most people there didn't bother to hide their monster forms so I was freaked out for months.

School sucked. I was that cowardly girl with the whore mother. My mother's methods of making ends meet hadn't changed, so why would anything else?

I hated her. My mother was my world and it had all turned out to be a huge lie. I didn't know how to cope with my new status so I blamed her for everything. It was her fault nobody liked me. It was her fault nobody had ever liked me. She was the only person in the world whom loved me and I hated her for making it be that way.

I was so distant from her from sixth grade to my entrance into Yokai Academy. I could say from fifth grade, but I wouldn't call all of my many outbursts of hatred upon her as distant. It was very tense that first year because I let out all of my frustrations from childhood. Every day was an argument. And it took time for me to decide that my best course of action was to withdraw from her as much as I could.

I suppose I should say that I never really got to know my mother. These months at Yokai Academy apart from her allowed me to finally let go of all that resentment. I was able to make friends here. And while things haven't been perfect, I won't hesitate to say that I've been happier in this short time at Yokai then I had ever been in Kengamine.

This summer my mother signed away my rights to the Shuzen Estate. I don't know how up to speed you are with rumors, but my life has been pledged to Akashiya's little sister. My mother did this before taking her job with Fairy Tale under Mrs. Shuzen's employ.

I know you all talked for a short time not so long ago. You were concerned that my mother had died with the passing of my father. That ties into the legend Ms. Nekonome told me about how a succubus will die if her lover perishes. My mother told you all that she had felt my father's passing. She spoke the truth.

A broken heart is a leading cause of death for my kind. We can literally stress our hearts into failure. I know Ms. Nekonome said my race isn't meant for happiness. But she's wrong. We're not built for sorrow. We can kill ourselves with grief. I've heard this from several succubi now. I have no reason to doubt them because I have felt the pains of depression and sorrow. I've even passed out a couple times.

My mother is dead, Ms. Yaisoku. I don't know how to tell this to anyone. I don't want to be flooded with sentiments from my friends about how sorry they are for my loss. I'll either hurt more because of it or I'll not believe any of it. It's not like anyone asks me how my mother is doing. Nobody actively cares.

I'm not saying anyone is cruel. I don't normally ask about anyone's parents either. And I don't think I can start doing it now or it will cause people to ask questions.

I think I regret most this feeling like I never knew her. That she put all these hopes and dreams of a future for me and how none of it matters now. She'll never see any of it.

I'm going to wrap this up since I'm running out of room on my third page. I felt this was the best way for me to share this news. Please be discrete with it.

Kurumu sniffled, setting her pencil aside. Three pages. She summarized her mother in three pages. She was truly heartless. Wiping a tear from the corner of her eye, she got up from her desk and shuffled down the aisle. Coming to a halt at the podium, she held out her confession to the gym instructor.

"It's not that much longer to the bell."

Kurumu shrugged as the woman took the sheets. The tennis coach glanced it over and smirked.

"I wasn't asking for a personal history."

"You should read it."

Coach Yaisoku grinned, promptly putting the sheets away in her portfolio.

"I will. You can return to your seat."

Kurumu nodded dumbly, retreating back to her desk. She slumped back in her chair, letting out a heavy breath. After a moment, she stuffed her notebook and pencil inside her schoolbag.

Ichida was working diligently on that example test. It looked like Wanibuchi and Yakihara had chosen to do the same. Senyou was too far away to accurately guess what he was up to. Abe was doodling. His sketch thus far appeared to be a buxom woman with something stuffed in her mouth. It looked like it was meant to be a boot.

Kurumu sighed, slouching her shoulders. The truth was out there. As expected, she felt no better about it now than she had before. She wondered when Coach Yaisoku would get around to reading it. Knowing her luck, the woman would lose it or throw it away without realizing its importance.

As promised, it was not a long wait before the bell sounded the end of the period. The teacher looked up as the boys started putting away their things.

"If anyone else wants to, they may bring up their papers."

Kurumu felt mildly embarrassed upon realizing she was the only one that had written a paper. Osakebi and Yano were already out the back door while Yakihara and Wanibuchi were opening up the front.

"Ms. Sendou and Ms. Kurono. Make sure to bring your schoolbags along."

"Do we need to take our bags?"

"No, Mr. Abe. Just the two girls. I'm joining them for lunch."

The tennis instructor tucked her portfolio below her arm as she stepped out from behind the podium. Yukari glanced back at Kurumu with an inquisitive look. Kurumu shrugged, reaching over to pick up her schoolbag which was dangling by its strap off the hook mounted to the side of her desk.

Yukari grabbed her schoolbag and slung the strap over her head as she slipped out of her desk. She bent down and picked up her white satchel with the bento lunches she made this morning.

"I'll have you know that I didn't make a spare lunch for you, Ms. Yaisoku."

The woman chuckled as Senyou passed by her intent on the front door. Abe was close behind him.

"Don't worry. I'll manage."

Securing her schoolbag at her side, Kurumu prompted Yukari to walk with her.

"Is there something you wish to talk to us about?"

Coach Yaisoku nodded as she joined their stroll to the open front door.

"You could say that. With the PSC almost entirely in Lord Chiki's hands and the Headmaster missing, I'm curious what the newspaper club intends to do next."

Yukari snorted as they exited the classroom.

"Shouldn't the faculty be doing something?"

"Oh I'm sure by the end of the day every teacher whom has vocally spoken against Lord Chiki shall be arrested for some reason or another."

"That's not what I meant."

"Your club is special, Ms. Sendou. And I don't mean that because of past events."

"Kurumu."

Kurumu smiled at the pair of boys waiting by the open door to class three. Ushio waved a slight salute as Tamaishi nodded.

"This might be our last time together in this school. Care to join us for lunch?"

She had to laugh at his persistence. Kurumu stopped shy of the door, shaking her head.

"Don't say stuff like that. You will have another chance for me to deny your request to eat with you."

Ushio frowned as Tamaishi chuckled.

"I'm unsure how I should take that."

Kurumu took in a deep breath and stepped in close to him. She wrapped her arms about his thick torso as best she could, giving him a squeeze. He chuckled, patting her head as she released him.

"I'll take that compromise."

"See you around, Ushio."

He grunted a response as he turned about and followed Tamaishi down the hall towards the cafeteria.

"At least Mr. Nagamushi isn't holding a long lecture."

"As if you'd pay attention."

Kurumu smirked, slipping through the open back door. Nozomi was in the back, chatting with Mizore and Tsukune. The only other student in the classroom was Kamitsuku, whom was sitting at his desk. Kurumu frowned, regarding the boy as they made their way over to the trio.

"Hey Coach."

"Ms. Bikiyama."

"What are you doing here?"

"I shall be joining these two ladies for lunch."

Tsukune managed a smile.

"Crazy day, huh?"

"Yea. Crazy day."

"I apologize, Ms. Bikiyama, but it was my Moka's desire to eat with Tsukune today. You can have Ms. Shirayuki though."

Tsukune chuckled as Mizore cocked her head.

"What does Moka want to talk about?"

"How we shall handle this situation?"

Coach Yaisoku grinned at Kurumu's guess.

"That's what I wanted to hear. You should grab your schoolbags."

"What for?"

"Not you, Ms. Bikiyama. That was meant for the members of the newspaper club."

"We don't need Ms. Shirayuki."

"She is part of your club."

Yukari huffed, shaking her head.

"It's not like every member of our club is at school today."

"That might be so, but she should come along all the same."

"Well… if you guys aren't coming with me then I'll run down and join my friends."

"Yea. We'll see you later."

Nozomi nodded, trotting off for the back door. Kurumu sucked in another deep breath, noting Kamitsuku was still lingering in the front.

"What's up with Kamitsuku?"

Tsukune shrugged, shaking his head as he picked up his schoolbag.

"The whole class has been out of sorts today. I'm sure you heard it when Ms. Irewata became hysterical."

Kurumu nodded, recalling how the girl had broken down the moment Lord Chiki had left the gymnasium. The girl had been so shocked by the execution that she had wet herself. When Yougan pointed it out, Irewata had completely lost it.

"I'll talk to him."

Kurumu started up the aisle which ended with the vacant desks of Hatoko and Suzume. Kamitsuku sat in the front of the center. She managed a smile as she neared him.

"Hey. Kamitsuku?"

There was a haunted look about his eyes. She walked around Suzume's desk to stop in front of his.

"How are you feeling?"

He turned his head slightly, looking beyond her.

"Today is my birthday."

She felt her heart twist in her chest. Kurumu grabbed the strap nestled in her bosom as she glanced at the others. Yukari promptly looked down as Coach Yaisoku forced a smile. Tsukune bit his lip, averting his eyes while Mizore fixed her schoolbag at her side.

"It'll be fine, Mr. Yamabato."

Kurumu stepped in, holding her arms out to him.

"Come on. Get up."

He slowly complied and she immediately hugged him the moment he was upright. Not nearly the same girth as Ushio, she easily managed to get her arms about the guy. He timidly placed his hands on her sides as she nuzzled her cheek against his chest.

"It's going to be one of those days where she hugs everyone, isn't it?"

Kurumu coughed out a laugh. She took in a deep breath, grimacing at the scent of his body odor. She loosened her grip, lifting her head back to glance at him. The look in his ochre eyes was the same.

"I'm so sorry."

Coach Yaisoku placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Go home, Mr. Yamabato. Take the day off."

"But we have science lab."

The teacher shot a quieting glance at Tsukune. He smiled nervously, looking away.

"Go on."

Kamitsuku's eyes found focus and he nodded. He backed out of Kurumu's grasp, turning slightly to reach for his schoolbag.

"Will you be okay?"

He hauled his schoolbag up on his shoulder. He swallowed, nodding again.

"I'll sleep it off. Or something."

"Treat yourself to something. It's your birthday."

"Okay Teacher. See you."

He bowed slightly before retreating down the aisle, intent on the open back door. There was silence as the young kappa slipped out of the classroom.

"Well… whom all are you having lunch with?"

"It's Moka, Kokoa and Ishiko."

"Ishiko?"

"Ms. Fukai from class eleven. She's a friend."

Coach Yaisoku nodded, taking a step towards the door which prompted them to follow.

"And where are we meeting them?"

"They'll be in class eight."

There was barely any chatter in the hallway. They walked steadily towards the nearest crossover.

"I hope none of you object to the notion of taking this lunch off campus."

"Why?"

"Because Ms. Nekonome doesn't have a fifth period class for me to teach and I'd rather not stick around for the return of Lord Chiki's men. I could be on their suspect list."

"Um… I don't object to it."

Yukari huffed.

"Of course she wouldn't. She doesn't need a reason to skip her English lecture."

"Sit down and have some dinner."

Lady Hineri scowled at the tennis coach. It was different seeing the PSC leader garbed in casual attire. The senior was sporting a yellow tee with a black temple design with crimson letters indicating the stage of the Kiyomizu dera temple. Ignoring the suggestion, the senior continued to pace about the room in those black cargo shorts which almost reached her knees.

"That bastard has my sister. I swear if she is harmed in the slightest bit, I'll tear his head off."

Coach Yaisoku lived in a one bedroom apartment which was located across the street from the Tensai's contracting office and flanked the old residential part of the town. Unlike many places, the building had a parking lot where the teacher had left her small sedan after a very uncomfortable drive. Even with Yukari and Ishiko sitting in the vampires' laps, squeezing into the back seat with them had not been fun. Less than a minute into the ride, Kurumu had wished that she had suggested Mizore sitting up in Tsukune's lap instead of herself which had summarily been rejected.

After parking, the woman had treated them to lunch at Lunch Palace, a corner café not far from the arcade. The café had a wide assortment of inexpensive dishes but had very slow service. They had easily lost an hour waiting for their meal but in that time, Coach Yaisoku had admitted that she had taken in Lady Hineri and Ms. Zanzou last night and would help them as much as she could. It had been apparent that the teacher had no clue what her new wards were planning.

"You're not killing Lord Chiki. You'll never see your mother again if you do."

Lady Hineri grimaced, sitting down on the back of the white couch facing the far corner of the room. A television rested upon a corner stand. To the right of this corner was the sliding door for the closet. The next door on that wall pulled out and was for a tiny bathroom with a shower but no sink. That was likely because the kitchen sink was not far from this bathroom. The sink, refrigerator and stove were pushed up in this recessed section which was the depth of the bathroom and closet. This ended at a pantry at the front of the apartment. There was no dishwasher.

"We need to go now."

"You need to eat."

Despite the command, there was no room at the table which was pushed up against the wall and flanked by four chairs. Coach Yaisoku was holding her takeout noodle meal which she had ordered from Meals To Go, an eatery specializing in delivery services located by the Dip and Sip ramen shop. The teacher was leaning against the wall between the chair Tsukune was seated in and the door to her bedroom.

"How can you eat at a time like this?"

"Because I'm hungry."

Kurumu smirked at Zanzou's prompt response. The second year was seated across the table from Tsukune, dressed in a black spandex shirt which clearly defined how underdeveloped the girl was. Her matching spandex shorts betrayed a shapely bottom which a dog like Ginei might appreciate.

"We have to save my sister tonight."

"No. Tonight we need the two of you to explore the underground prison to make sure it doesn't have those criminals."

"I don't give a fuck about those criminals."

Kokoa slurped down a wad of noodles from, sitting in the chair next to Zanzou. A silent Ishiko occupied the last chair. The vampire wagged her finger at the senior, swallowing down her mouthful.

"Those criminals are murdering girls. Two seniors from Ishiko's village are being tortured by them."

"There's no guarantee that those criminals are down there."

"I'd stake my blood as a vampire that they are."

"Regardless of whether they are down there or not, we need a place to hide the prisoners from Lord Chiki. This underground prison is a good option as long as it isn't being occupied by unsavory elements."

"I'm not waiting for these two to come back and tell me what I already know."

Kurumu scowled, thoroughly annoyed with Kokoa. She stalked away from the kitchen where she had been lingering with Moka, Yukari and Mizore. Holding her carton of noodles, she wagged her chopsticks at the belligerent vampire.

"You need to shut up and behave for once."

"A servant doesn't talk to her lady like that."

"If you were a lady, I wouldn't have to."

Kokoa sprung out of her seat.

"You better watch your tongue before you bite off more than you can chew."

Kurumu smirked, confident she could subdue this brat with a kiss or a touch.

"You know what your problem is? You underestimate everybody."

"What's there to underestimate here? You're not strong. You're not fast. And I don't give a damn that your tits are humongous."

Kurumu scowled, jabbing her chopsticks into her carton. She turned and held it out.

"Mizore. Hold this. I have to teach this brat a lesson."

"Teach me a lesson? Don't make me laugh. Vampires are a superior race. The only thing a weakling like you could teach me is how to have sex with loser guys."

The moment Mizore took the carton from her, Kurumu pounced at the sneering brat. Kokoa blinked out of her reach, laughing maniacally.

"I think I need to remind my servant her place."

Kokoa reached up and yanked her ribbon from her reddish locks. It quickly lengthened into a haft with the end bloating out into a thick, black cube.

"I'll pound you flat, you jiggly airhead."

The familiar was yanked up out of Kokoa's grip. The vampire frowned, glancing up as the huge hammer turned about in the air. It hovered for a half second before crashing down on top of Kokoa's head.

"Yukari."

As Kokoa crumpled to the floor, Kurumu glanced back at Moka's stern tone. The witch was pointing at the hammer atop Kokoa's head.

"She was being a pain."

"If you must fight, take it outside."

Kurumu smirked at the teacher's late reaction. She crossed her arms below her bosom as she looked down upon the groaning vampire.

"Not so superior, are you?"

"But you didn't do anything."

Kurumu pouted at Mizore. She took back her carton of noodles.

"She lost to a simple spell cast by a witch."

Kokoa growled, slowly picking herself off the floor.

"That was a dirty trick."

"Kokoa. We can't do this tonight. Only a few of us can see in the dark."

"We don't need the weaklings, Moka. You and I are more than enough to handle this."

"But it's already after seven. Your sister won't last long into an extensive exploration of this dungeon."

Kokoa scowled at him. She picked up the hammer which promptly turned back into a plaid ribbon.

"Then unseal my sister, you useless fool. I don't want to bring this watered down version of her to fight against these villains."

"Haven't you learned anything? Yukari dropped you in a second."

Kokoa huffed, tying her ribbon back in her hair.

"I'm standing, aren't I?"

"An enemy isn't going to let you get back up."

"Can we get back to discussing what the actual plan is? Because if we're not killing him, how are we going to stage a prison break?"

Coach Yaisoku nodded at Lady Hineri's frustrated questions.

"Well… assuming we can use the underground prison as a sanctuary, we would need to infiltrate the prison. Ms. Zanzou clearly can do that."

"I can, but I can't move people in the shadows with me."

"Then we need someone whom can get people through solid walls."

"I can do that, but casting a bunch of spells will cause energy spikes. It can't be done stealthily."

"Then we will need to cause a major distraction."

Kokoa smirked, gesturing at Kurumu.

"Have her run about the prison naked."

"I'm not doing that!"

"Topless then?"

Kurumu blushed, shaking her head.

"No way!"

"Maybe you could charm them all."

Kurumu paused at Moka's suggestion.

"I don't know if I could. How many guards are in this prison?"

"I counted forty five today."

Yukari shook her head.

"Short of having a way to get them all in one place at the same time, I doubt Kurumu could do it."

"We'll have to make it work."

"What about an explosion?"

Yukari snorted at Mizore.

"I'm the only one that can do that and I'll be too busy getting prisoners out of cells."

"What about Rubi?"

Yukari frowned at Tsukune.

"Even if I knew where she was, I doubt she knows that kind of spell."

"She could be at your suite."

"I don't know how useful she will be. She still hasn't mastered the teleportation spell. Last Tuesday night, she somehow managed to teleport without her clothes."

"What if Ms. Shuzen is right and we find these killers down there? There is a strong possibility that they are working for Lord Chiki."

Coach Yaisoku frowned at Lady Hineri.

"While that is possible, I doubt he would have them stay in the dungeon. The underground section was reserved for the nastiest of criminals. Mostly murderers and serial killers whom were waiting for their executions. The locals say the place is haunted by violent spirits."

Yukari snorted.

"That's ridiculous. There's no such thing as ghosts."

"Ghosts or not, the place is a ruin with whole sections caved in. There's no reason to have your lackeys holed up in that darkness for weeks."

Zanzou nodded in agreement with Coach Yaisoku.

"And from my observations, none of the guards venture into the underground prison. If those men are down there, they are not getting supplies from Lord Chiki."

"I am positive that they are down there. It is the perfect place to hide."

Kurumu scowled at Kokoa, pointing at Zanzou.

"Didn't you just hear her? She said they're not being supplied by Lord Chiki. That means they are not working for him if they are down there."

"Are you scared?"

"That has nothing to do with it!"

"Hello? Kurumu?"

Kurumu frowned, glancing over to the doorway. She stalked over to her schoolbag, kneeling down.

"Kurumu?"

"I hear you."

Kurumu fumbled inside her bag for her lavender purse.

"Thank goodness. I tried calling Moka but she didn't answer."

She chuckled, unzipping her purse. She pulled out her black phone.

"Apparently someone forgot to bring her phone to school."

"School? Aren't you at Moka's suite?"

"No. We're at-"

"Don't. He might be able to enhance audio in here. I don't need to know where you are."

Kurumu shivered, glancing back at the others. Lady Hineri crowded in beside Kurumu.

"Where is my sister?"

"I'm here."

Lady Hineri let out a sigh, touching her breast.

"Thank goodness."

"I'm glad you're safe."

"As am I. Where are you?"

"Nazohashi has us all together."

"Not all of us. I don't know where they took Mr. Umizake, Ms. Shuzen or Ms. Yoshino. And we haven't seen any of the other students or teachers whom were arrested prior to this morning."

"What's happening?"

Tora snorted on the other end.

"We took over the cell block."

Several girls giggled on the other end.

"Nazohashi is brilliant. They had us come out of our cells for dinner. She made a round of the block and was discretely marking her territory."

"She put down a barrier and we kicked the shit out of the two guards serving us meals."

"Will you guys be okay?"

"Short of Lord Chiki having someone able to mind control me into dropping my barrier like that siren did, I don't think we have anything to worry about. When more guards came for us, I had the fool whom failed my test escort our prisoners out before resigning from Lord Chiki's command. Unless he wants all of his men to leave, he will think twice about sending more guards at us."

Coach Yaisoku wrung her hands.

"You shouldn't have done that. Now he will press charges against you."

"He had his guards beat Ms. Unari."

Kurumu winced at Tora's stern reply.

"Is she okay?"

"I healed her but she's not talking. I'm worried they might have done more than beating her."

Kurumu's jaw quivered.

"Yea. You made the right call."

"They have public showers and toilets in here. We have water, but we don't have food. Hopefully this situation doesn't last so long that this would become a problem."

"We're going to get you out of there, Ms. Nazohashi."

"Thanks. I trust you won't make us wait too long."

"I'm surprised, Tora. I never thought you would stop playing by the rules."

There was a pause after Yukari's awed remark.

"There's nothing she could have said to justify this. I'm worried about Ginei. He's even more of a smart ass than Ms. Unari."

"The only casualty we are aware of is Ms. Rin. We confirmed that everyone else whom was arrested before this morning was alive when Ms. Zanzou made her last round."

"The men have been beaten routinely but most are taking it with pride. We have only two squealers and Mr. Kaiketsu doesn't know enough to count."

Kurumu grimaced at Zanzou's declaration, aware that most of Lord Chiki's accusations were stemming from Utsubari's testimony. Like Ms. Rin, he was breaking their bones and torturing them in hopes of getting the answers he wanted.

"I suppose that can be taken as good news."

"I'm sorry, Ms. Nazohashi. That is the situation."

"Well… I don't have anything else to say. Good luck out there."

"You too. Keep safe, Kumiko."

"I will."

The phone went silent. Kurumu sighed, clutching it to her chest.

"So… since when did we have cell phone service inside Mononoke?"

Kurumu choked out a laugh, shaking her head.

"It's a spell I cast, Ms. Yaisoku. I connected all of our phones."

"You should try calling Rubi."

Yukari sighed at Tsukune's suggestion. She stalked over and knelt down by her schoolbag.

"I suppose I could. She better not be using it."

Kurumu blushed at the thought.

"Are you ready to go?"

Zanzou nodded at Lady Hineri. Coach Yaisoku frowned.

"You really should eat something."

"If my sister is going to starve, so can I."

Lady Hineri stepped around Kurumu, reaching down to slip on her shoes.

"Rubi. Are you there?"

"Is she using a toy phone?"

Kurumu smiled at Lady Hineri whom was regarding the pink phone Yukari held.

"Yea. Anything with batteries will work."

Lady Hineri shook her head, tugging the door open.

"Come on, Ms. Zanzou."

"Rubi? Answer."

"Do you wish us to check your suite?"

Yukari sighed, putting down her phone.

"Yea. She might not have her vibrator on her."

The look on Lady Hineri's face was priceless. Kurumu smiled apologetically.

"Well… anything with batteries."