"Good morning, girls. I got that price list for you."

Senyou strolled across the front of the classroom as Kurumu hung her jacket on the back of her seat.

"So the dog comes through on his task."

Senyou smirked at Satsuki's remark, setting his schoolbag on top of his desk.

"Why are you here so early?"

"Because I am."

He shook his head as he opened his schoolbag and started rifling through the contents.

"That's a different look for you. Is the PSC changing their image?"

Ms. Kiyomizu had provided the PSC first year girls new outfits last night in the Headmaster's office. Now they all had the same short sleeved, high collar jacket and black skirt that Lady Hineri wore.

"We do have a new advisor."

"I'm fortunate to have joined at the right time. I disliked those sleeveless outfits."

"I think the outfit suits you."

Kumiko nodded at Hazumi as Kurumu took her seat. With two sheets of paper in hand, Senyou walked over to Yukari's desk as Ichida entered the classroom.

"Prefer sleeveless. These stiff."

Ichida strolled down the aisle by Deshi's staff which was balanced on its end.

"Good morning, Mr. Ichida."

"Good morning, Ms. Kurono."

While Ichida took his seat, Yakihara said something to Wanibuchi which had both boys chuckling. The large Tandoku was quietly perusing the pages of a Kendo Jidai magazine.

"Thank you, Mr. Senyou."

"Is that the price list for the menu?"

Yukari nodded, glancing over the list as Senyou returned to his seat.

"Now we need to get pricing on costumes and decorations."

"The town might have a place that rents out costumes. That might be cheaper than making our own."

"I haven't noticed a place like that."

Ichida smirked at Kurumu as Abe stepped through the open front door.

"Neither have I, but it's not like I'm exploring the town. Maybe someone familiar with Mononoke could help us out in this endeavor."

Kurumu nodded, glancing behind her. Yano was murmuring in his low voice to Osakebi.

"We could ask Meirowasa at lunch."

"What are we talking about?"

Kurumu grinned at Abe as the guy settled into his seat.

"A place to rent maid outfits."

"Cool. I can't wait to see you dressed up like a maid."

"She already has two maid outfits."

Abe shared an intrigued look with Senyou.

"Why do you have a maid outfit?"

"Let alone two."

Kurumu smiled at the frowns Kumiko and Satsuki favored her.

"Kokoa bought me one and her family gave me another over the summer. I thought you knew that."

"I should have realized you were way too eager to have me take that maid job."

"Did you take that job?"

"She did and will be working this weekend."

Abe and Senyou turned wide grins upon a flush Satsuki.

"I can't wait to see this kitten as a maid."

"Where is this maid café?"

"Don't you dare tell them that."

Kurumu grinned at Satsuki's threat.

"You're looking for the Gates of Heaven."

"I swear I'm going to hurt you."

"I didn't tell them where it was."

"I will hunt this place down to be your first customer."

Satsuki scowled at Senyou, crossing her arms below the swell of her bosom.

"If you show up, I'll lock myself up in the bathroom and wait for you to leave."

Kurumu giggled as Hisakata strode stoically through the door and briskly made his way to his desk. She leaned over to rummage in her schoolbag for her interview notebook.

"Good morning, Mr. Hisakata."

As the young man responded, Kurumu pulled her notebook out and flipped it open. She tugged her mechanical pencil out of the binding.

"I noticed that your kendo club sits across the main aisle from the volleyball team in the cafeteria."

"We do. We use two tables."

"Do all of your members eat together?"

"I believe all are present except Mr. Kitajima due to his PSC commitments and Mr. Huang whom is new to the club. As part of his punishment, he is having lunch in detention."

Kurumu smirked as Endo came through the front door. She scrawled down Hisakata Unkei.

"If your club has no objections, I'd like to do your interviews this week. Does a lunch hour for each table sound good?"

"You are not leaving me alone with that brat."

"I'm not doing this today. Even if I did, you wouldn't be alone with her. Moka would be with you."

"I haven't seen Ms. Sendou's white satchel lately."

Yukari sighed dramatically at Ichida's observation.

"There's never enough time to make a proper lunch for myself. I can only hope that my health doesn't suffer too much from the questionable selection available in the school store."

The first bell sounded out as Ichiboku entered the classroom.

"I will ask my seniors and inform you of their decision after lunch today."

"Mr. Tandoku. What's your first name?"

"Eiji."

Kurumu jotted down Tandoku Eiji halfway down the page.

"Do you need my name?"

Kurumu shook her head as she flipped over to another sheet.

"I have yours, Mr. Hisakata. Could you guys help me out with making a full list of your club?"

"I know our captain's full name. Kogane Hiji. Most of our members I know only by surname."

"I've seen Mr. Tandoku hanging out with Mr. Tokeru."

Tandoku set down his magazine and nodded as Madosuki arrived.

"I went to junior high with the Tokeru brothers. Takeo is in our grade and Tetsu is one of our seniors."

Kurumu wrote down the younger guy's name on the same sheet as Huang's while using a different sheet for the older brother and the team's captain. Turning another sheet, she put Kitajima Danuja at the top, having asked for his name last training session. On the same page, she added Akegawa.

"Do either of you know the first name for Mr. Akegawa."

"That is Atsushi."

"I wasn't aware that Ms. Sendou was so familiar with our club members."

"Well he is the brother of one of Kokoa's friends."

"That's not why I know his name. He was in the popularity contest. Other second years nominated were Yaseibo Kohaku from class four and Hosokoun Habiki from class ten. That's the valedictorian."

Kurumu nodded, hastily jotting down the two names and their homerooms on another sheet.

"Good morning, Kurumu!"

Kurumu glanced up with a wide grin. She waved at Juri as the girl walked by.

"Good morning, Juri."

"What are you up to?"

"She's taking the names of the kendo club members. I have two more if you are ready?"

Kurumu nodded as Juri giggled and took her seat.

"Always hard at work."

"Yea. I'll be having two lunches with them later this week."

"Don't forget that we have a classroom project to do for the festival."

Kurumu stuck her tongue out at Juri's grin, noting the arrival of Nakai through the back door. She turned her attention back to her notebook.

"I'm ready, Yukari."

"For third years, there is Saiban Kou from class three and Ijouyama Yuma from class four. There is also Hamanaka Isamu from class twelve whom is on the festival committee."

Kurumu added the three names which brought the total up to thirteen. The steady clap of flats caught her attention as Mrs. Sunao crossed over to the podium. The tiny teacher had her hair up in twin buns and was wearing a black jacket over a periwinkle blouse tucked into black slacks.

"Good morning, class."

A murmured response greeted the teacher as she placed her portfolio on the podium. Mrs. Sunao glanced at the door as Shouhei slipped in. The boy hurried across the room to take his seat.

"I believe everyone is here. You may close the doors while I start with the attendance."

As Wanibuchi and Nakai moved to fulfill the teacher's instructions, Mrs. Sunao started calling out names.

"Hey, Mr. Hisakata. You said your club had like sixteen members. I'm missing three or four names."

Hisakata nodded thoughtfully as Mrs. Sunao continued down the list alphabetically. He responded to his name being called. In seconds, Kurumu did the same when Mrs. Sunao called for her.

"There is Katsuo, the younger Ijouyama, and Mr. Morishita. Both are second years."

Kurumu nodded, adding both of those names on a separate sheet.

"Soutama Rinji from class seven joined their club. He's my friend from junior high."

Kurumu perked up from Abe's comment. She glanced at Hisakata.

"Any others you can think of?"

"If everyone could take out their notebooks, I would like to start my lesson promptly after the morning announcements."

Guessing that shake of his head was her answer, Kurumu added the last name to her notebook before leaning over to put it away. She pulled out her notebook for Mrs. Sunao's subject.

It was not long before the second bell rang. A few more seconds passed before the PA system squealed.

"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen! It is I, Tashikana Ichigo, your Voice for Yokai Academy. Before I get started, I'd like to introduce you to an unexpected guest. Please welcome our student council president."

There was a momentary pause.

"Thank you, Mr. Tashikana. I only wanted to make a few quick remarks. Today will be the last time the student council members will be sitting in with the festival committee. Our treasurer, Mr. Okumatsu, shall be leaving festival budget submissions in the hands of Mr. Suriza, president of the billiards club. You can find Mr. Suriza in the cafeteria during lunch or in third year class five."

Kaneshiro took in a deep breath.

"Please do not come to the student council room during lunch to discuss cultural festival concerns. The student council has other duties to perform which is why the festival committee is created each year. All class managers are welcome to attend the after school meetings but must make an appointment with Ms. Hisomeru, whom will be taking up the secretarial role. She has agreed to sit with Mr. Suriza's club to make it easier for students to locate her during the lunch hour. Her homeroom is third year class nine."

Kurumu smirked at the next pause, thinking this was hardly a quick remark.

"We also have a vacancy on the festival committee. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Mr. Ueshiba has resigned his position. I will need another second year class manager to take his place."

"That is unusual."

"It certainly is. My last order of business concerns the newspaper club. I would like Ms. Kurono and Mr. Morioka to come to the broadcasting club room. I need to speak with them about a delicate matter."

Kurumu frowned as Tashikana took over and started with the morning announcements.

"What do you think that's about?"

Kurumu shrugged at Juri's inquiry, unsure what she should do.

"Ms. Kurono. You should go now but be quiet when you return."

Mrs. Sunao's remark spurred her to move. Leaving her notebook behind, Kurumu slipped out of her desk and hurried to the front door. She exchanged looks with Yukari whom mouthed a name which cleared up her confusion. Steeling her nerves, she eased open the door and stepping out into the hall. Closing the door, she took in a deep breath and started down the hall.

Ueshiba was conscious.

She wondered why Kaneshiro had asked for Ginei. Perhaps it would be too suspicious if he asked only for her. Whatever the case, she would soon find out how much Ueshiba knew about Yoshii's plans.

"Allow me."

Kurumu blinked as the door to the broadcasting room was opened for her. Ginei grinned at her with a black hairband holding his dark bangs back. She smirked, shaking her head.

"Do you even know why you're here?"

"Should I?"

The broadcasting room was divided into three parts. The small chamber on the left was lined with shelves stacked with numerous CDs, cassettes and vinyl records. The small chamber on the right was enclosed in a soundproof room. The upper half of the enclosure was made of clear plastic, allowing her to see Tashikana and Kaneshiro carrying on with the morning announcements.

"Did you know that we were attacked yesterday?"

"Attacked? By whom?"

The center compartment had several stools and two chairs on rollers. A sound equipment machine was pressed up against the far wall which had numerous dials and sliders. Headphones and microphones were plugged into different ports.

"One of the festival committee members was working for Yoshii Kiria."

Ginei nodded thoughtfully, glancing at the seniors in the soundproof room.

"Is everyone okay?"

"Yea. Tsukune almost lost control but snapped out of it before he killed Ueshiba."

"Ueshiba? That simpering worm was working for Yoshii?"

"You didn't like the guy?"

"Not much to like. Always too nice. Surprised that he would try to kill someone like Tsukune. He didn't seem the sort to stick his neck out like that."

"He probably thought he could take us by surprise. He almost killed Mizore when he pulled her down."

"Pulled her down? What exactly happened?"

"He tried to bury us alive. His true form was like an earthworm."

"Fitting. How do you know that he's working for Yoshii?"

Kurumu paused, collecting her response.

"After Mizore speared him, he lacked the strength to pull me under. I used his hold on me to peek into his thoughts and saw that he had met with Yoshii over the weekend."

"Yoshii is here?!"

"Yes. And Kaneshiro wants me to find out all I can from Ueshiba when he wakes up. We were keeping him in the infirmary."

Ginei sighed heavily, grabbing the backs of one of the rolling chairs.

"Well that ruins the mood. I was hoping to tease you about your new love affair."

Kurumu matched his sigh, having endured many remarks about Amesuki's brother last night.

"I'm guessing Okimune had nothing but good things to say about him."

"She actually doesn't have an opinion on him but she did comment on your impersonation skills."

Kurumu frowned, curious what he meant by that when the door opened. Kaneshiro came out first with a serious air about him.

"I'm pleased that you came, Ms. Kurono. I'm sorry to trouble you, Mr. Morioka, but I could not call for her without drawing too much chatter. People love to gossip."

"What's going on here?"

"You and Mr. Tashikana are more than welcome to leave."

Tashikana chuckled, shaking his head.

"No can do. I have to lock this room up when I go."

"Kurumu has already told me about Ueshiba and his connection to Yoshii."

"Yoshii? That's the guy that orchestrated everything between the Outcasts and your newspaper club."

"Yea. And tried to have the Headmaster killed."

"Who's this Ueshiba?"

"Some goofball that was only good at being a yes man. Sounds like Tsukune put the hurt on him."

The way Kaneshiro simply stood there without comment made Kurumu uneasy.

"Is he awake?"

Kaneshiro regarded her with a smoldering anger in his eyes.

"Mr. Ueshiba was murdered in the infirmary."

"What?! How?!"

"Mr. Utsutei and I checked on him this morning. There were pieces of him everywhere. I've never seen such a brutal display."

"Why was he not being monitored?"

"He was, Mr. Morioka. After I left the premises last night, Ms. Tsumugi took over. She was instructed to heavily sedate Mr. Ueshiba if he regained consciousness. We couldn't risk him escaping."

"Where was Ms. Tsumugi?"

"She was making herself breakfast in the kitchen. She swears he was still unconscious when she left him around six thirty this morning."

"And when did you find him?"

"Mr. Utsutei can confirm that we discovered what was left of Mr. Ueshiba around seven fifteen. If Ms. Tsumugi is telling the truth, the killer had a very small window of opportunity."

"Do you think that Ms. Tsumugi killed him?"

"I doubt that, Mr. Tashikana. But this murder suggests that Mr. Ueshiba was not working alone."

Kurumu grimaced at the thought of losing their only lead on Yoshii.

"It's obvious that Yoshii killed him."

"I concur. But I question how Yoshii discovered Mr. Ueshiba's fate. Before Ms. Shirayuki alerted the committee of the potential of there being a spy, there was no way for Yoshii to know that Ueshiba's presence was compromised."

Ginei nodded thoughtfully.

"You suspect that someone else on the committee is in contact with Yoshii."

"Which brings me to the reason why I called for Ms. Kurono. How do you feel about breaking the rules?"

Kurumu smirked as Kaneshiro adjusted his glasses.

"What do you want me to do?"

"First thing I need is for you to confirm Ms. Tsumugi's story. If she's telling the truth, the next step is to investigate every member of the festival committee."

"I don't see how that's breaking any rules."

"It is when I'm asking her to use her powers as a succubus."

"How is she going to use her charm against Ms. Tsumugi?"

Kurumu smiled at Tashikana's puzzled expression.

"It doesn't work like that. If I try, I can look into someone's thoughts and memories by touching them."

"Seriously?"

"Mr. Utsutei admitted that he told all of the committee members about Mr. Ueshiba's betrayal when he explained the new safety policy. Any of them could have informed Yoshii about Mr. Ueshiba's fate."

"That's good. I won't have to look too far back to find that out. It should be fast enough for them to not realize what I'm doing."

"Time is of the essence. I believe the best course of action would be to do this at our meeting today."

"After school?"

"Yes. You can arrange a visit of the committee with Ms. Hisomeru. She will be the only girl hanging out with Mr. Suriza, whom I know you have seen."

"But I don't have a reason to just show up at your meeting."

"You represent the newspaper club, Ms. Kurono. Do an article for the members of the committee."

"Kurumu doesn't do those kinds of articles. I would rather have Mika do this."

"That defeats the whole purpose. We need someone of Ms. Kurono's talents."

Ginei chuckled, placing a hand on Kurumu's shoulder.

"And I understand that Kurumu can do a convincing Mika impersonation."

Kurumu's eyes widened, suddenly realizing what he had mentioned before.

"You want me to do that?!"

"Of course we will have to get Mika in on this. This world can't handle two sexy Mikas running around."

"I don't understand the reason for having her pretend to be someone else."

"Because Ueshiba was probably killed because Yoshii knew about Kurumu's abilities. We can't have her blatantly checking out your committee members unless you want them to end up dead too."

Kaneshiro paused thoughtfully. He glanced at Tashikana, whom was nodding.

"He's right, Mr. Kaneshiro. It would be best if you do this discreetly."

"Fair point, Mr. Morioka. If Ms. Kurono can truly present herself as a believable copy of another member of your club, then I won't disagree with your idea any further."

Ginei chuckled, leaning in closer to drape his arm over her shoulders.

"As long as Kurumu doesn't object to pretending to be my girlfriend for a few hours."

Kurumu smirked, slipping out of his touch.

"Your true motives have been revealed."

"I also ask that you keep the news of Mr. Ueshiba's demise a secret. Tell no one. Not even Mr. Aono."

"Why not?"

"Because such news would only trouble him."

Ginei chuckled, walking over to the door.

"Don't worry, Mr. Kaneshiro. Kurumu is an expert at keeping secrets."

"As I thought. It doesn't work. You'll need these."

Kurumu regarded the pair of wooden blocks Hajihachi presented to her. Absently taking them, she toyed with the black leather straps attached to the block. One end of these straps were nailed to the side of the block while the other end had a loop which could be attached to the hooks on the other side.

"What are these?"

"Platform sandals. Ginei swiped them from the drama club storage room. It's meant to make short actors look taller on stage. It should help with your illusion."

Kurumu pouted, clutching the blocks to her bosom.

"I'm not that short."

"Ms. Kurono. I'm taller than Mr. Aono. Right now you're too short to pass as one of my sisters."

Kurumu glanced at the mirrors mounted over the sinks in the girls' restroom located by the teachers' lounge. A twin tailed girl with smoky black tresses and amethyst eyes held a pair of wooden blocks against her bosom. A much taller copy of herself stood nearby.

"Well maybe the others won't notice."

"Mr. Machida is my class manager and Mr. Jiseki is dating one of my friends. Both are going to notice a copy of me that's shorter than Chiku."

Kurumu grumbled to herself over how the lazy Machida had answered Kaneshiro's call for Ueshiba's replacement. She bent down, plopping the thick footwear upon the floor. Doubting these blocks would be comfortable, she left her slippers on.

Stepped up onto one, she pulled the three straps over her foot. The back strap hugged her ankle, making the sandal feel more secure despite her certainty that she could kick these off without too much effort. Finishing with the second one, she straightened up and regarded the original. She was still short a few centimeters.

"Not bad. I'd say that you're at least taller than Chiku now. You might want to adjust your illusion so that nobody sees the prop shoes."

Kurumu nodded, glancing down at her own feet and then at Hajihachi's slippers. Focusing her thoughts, she shifted the illusion by lengthening her legs and replacing the thick shoes with slippers. She took a few steps in a small circle to ensure that she had the illusion perfect.

"That looks good. I doubt Mr. Machida will be able to tell the difference. You might even fool Mr. Jiseki if you don't interact too much with him."

"Was my height that much of a giveaway?"

"You didn't fool Ms. Takahashi for long."

"Oh. So that's why your Housemother wouldn't let us upstairs."

Hajihachi snorted, shaking her head.

"No. That was Ms. Takahashi being Ms. Takahashi. She thought something was off but doubted you two could get inside. When Ms. Sendou used her magic to bypass the security door, Ms. Takahashi deduced that your appearance was an illusion cast by Ms. Sendou."

Kurumu smiled, turning to the schoolbags resting on a space between the sinks. She pulled a smooth, gray rock out of her bag before surrendering both bags to Hajihachi.

"This rock was enchanted by Yukari. It will cause you to become invisible. Nobody will be able to hear, smell or see you. It also masks your emotions."

Hajihachi nodded, shouldering Kurumu's schoolbag before doing the same with her own. She took the rock, regarding it with interest.

"So how does this work?"

"You push some of your soul energy into it to activate the switch. This does not mean that you can't interact with the real world. If you walk through the forest, people will notice the rustle of the leaves. You have to be careful not to touch anyone or anything if you wish to remain undetected."

"Okay. Here goes nothing."

In the blink of an eye, Hajihachi vanished. Grinning, Kurumu grabbed her notebook off the counter. She stalked away from the sinks, making a note to muffle the clack of the shoes. It was not much different from walking around in her platform sneakers, though these things were much taller and heavier.

"There is my beloved."

Kurumu smirked at Ginei's grin as she exited the bathroom. He did seem shorter thanks to these shoes. Clutching her notebook to her bosom, she walked by him.

"You better behave yourself. She is watching."

"All the more reason to misbehave."

"I'm serious, Ginei."

She was startled when he suddenly grabbed her. Chuckling, he tugged her towards him.

"Where are you going, my love? Your shoes are over here."

Kurumu blushed, allowing the amused werewolf to lead her towards a different cubby aisle.

"Yea. I know that."

"You'll have to soften that accent, baby. And your scent is off."

Kurumu frowned as he brought her to the aisle in the center of the lowered space.

"Is my scent going to be a problem?"

"Maybe to Mr. Jiseki."

Ginei stopped to reach up for a pair of shoes. He was about to hand them over when they were snatched out of his hands. He chuckled as the shoes dropped to the floor.

"I guess I'll leave you to it. I'll meet you at the door."

Chuckling, Ginei hurried off. Kurumu watched as a pair of slippers suddenly appeared on the floor. One loafer vanished and then the other. The slippers lifted off the floor and placed themselves in the cubby.

Guessing there was nothing else for her to do, she sauntered down the aisle to the main door at the end. She arrived only seconds before Ginei.

"How do I fix my scent?"

Ginei snickered, pushing open the door for her.

"You're the illusionist. Would a memory of her from my perspective help?"

Kurumu strolled out into the afternoon. It was warm with a fresh, gentle breeze which carried the scents of the ocean.

"It might. Give me your hand."

He surprised her again by draping his arm over her shoulder and pressing to her side. She felt flush as she tried her best to maintain her illusion.

"Don't do that!"

"Aw. So cute. You even get embarrassed like she does when I'm holding her."

"I'm serious, Ginei. You'll mess up my illusion."

Ginei chuckled, grabbing her shoulder firmly and pressing her to his side.

"You're a little shorter. Somewhere between Tsukune and Moka."

"Is it too much?"

Ginei shook his head as they neared the front gate.

"They won't notice if they're seated. How about you try out your powers now?"

"What for?"

Ginei laughed as they passed through the main gate. He came to a halt, holding her close.

"You need that memory I have to improve your illusion. Take a peek."

Kurumu shivered as he poured lecherous emotions into her. Taking a deep breath in of his feral scent, she gently pushed into his mind.

She immediately shoved him aside, fiercely blushing from the image she had witnessed. He chuckled, reaching out to her but she batted away his hands.

"You perv!"

"Was it enough?"

She pouted at his smug grin.

"Unless you want me reeking of sex, you better let me have a different memory."

"I promise I'll be nice."

She continued to pout, reluctantly holding her hands out.

"You better."

He grinned, taking her hands into his.

"Mika needs to practice that pout. It's heart melting."

This time his mind was not filled with the sounds and feel of lovemaking. It was warm with him holding Mika close. Breathing her in deep and feeling her curves. She smiled, peering up into his eyes.

"Better?"

He breathed in deep. With a smile, he squeezed her hands.

"Yea. One more thing."

"What is it now?"

"Could you touch your toes?"

"Why would I do that?"

"I want to fully appreciate your illusion."

With a snort, she yanked her hands away and started walking down the trail on the left.

"You want to look at my ass."

He laughed, easily catching up with her and matching her pace.

"We have to be thorough. I promise not to touch."

"Nope. There's no reason for me to make the illusion that good."

"I think I need to have Mika invest in some platform shoes."

"What for?"

"To get her sexy rump up a little higher. We can't quite do it while standing."

Kurumu was about to ask what he meant when she suddenly understood. Blushing darkly, she wished he would keep these sensual thoughts to himself as it was starting to make her whole body flush.

"Tone down your fantasies."

"I'm only thinking of Mika. She's not even in heat yet she still moans about making puppies."

Kurumu whimpered, not needing that thought. It reminded her of Lord Chiki's experience with an okami orphan. Her body felt flush, wondering if moaning with dirty talk made things better for a girl. The closest she had been to behaving that lewd was the time she had given Yukari an impromptu sexual education class with a barely conscious Tsukune.

Reaching the end of the perimeter wall, they cut down the diagonal path on the right. She shivered under his lascivious aura, wondering if her panties were soaked.

"That isn't how it works, Ginei. You're not thinking about having sex with Mika. You're thinking about having sex with me while I look like Mika. Stop it."

He sighed heavily. The oppressive promiscuity diminished as he stared off into the woods, saying nothing for a long stretch. They passed by the first break in the incomplete perimeter wall flanking this trail.

"Did Tsukune ever find out about your mother?"

The trembling of her body nearly vanished at those words.

"Yea. He's seen her butsudan and urn."

He nodded thoughtfully as they walked several long paces in silence.

"I should pay my respects. I'd like to bring Mika with me, if you don't mind."

"I don't."

"Could we do it after we're done with this?"

"Yea. I still have a few other friends I haven't shown her to. Could Mika get Akari and Nozomi for me?"

"I'm sure she could. Do you want those other two they usually hang out with?"

Kurumu nodded, wondering if there ever would be a good time to get Asuka and the tengu girls. She had wanted to ask Asuka and Nomura in home economics, but Kagami had been absent. Kazehana had told her about another altercation between Hatoko and the harpy which resulted in a broken arm and the girl taking the day off from school. At least she had finished making her pillow today.

Not much else had happened. As if the time spent training was not enough, Nagisa had spent most of the lunch hour razzing her about her interest in Amesuki's brother. And for some reason Amesuki had given her a written list of favorite foods her brother liked during gym.

"What has you so preoccupied that you dropped your illusion?"

Kurumu flinched, realizing she had. Taking a deep breath, she recreated the image from her memory.

"Fixed?"

"Even down to the scent. So what is on your mind?"

"My friends pushing me to get a new boyfriend."

"While my body might be willing, my heart can only belong to the real Mika."

"I'm not swooning over you. Moron."

He chuckled without making an immediate response. After several paces, he took in a deep breath and finally let go of her.

"Do what you think is best for you."

"I'm not very good at that."

"What do you want to do?"

"Fuck Tsukune senseless."

"That boy doesn't deserve you."

"That's not how love works."

They walked the remainder of the trail in silence. Ginei sighed when they reached the first flight of steps.

"I know Mr. Kaneshiro told you to look at the festival committee members, but I think you should also check on the student council."

"What?! Why?!"

"Because they were also aware of Ueshiba's fate. The vice president, Mr. Utsutei, and the treasurer, Mr. Okumatsu, are just as suspicious as any of the others."

"But Yoshii killed Utsutei's friend."

"You are assuming that Yoshii knows whom his spies are friends with."

Kurumu nodded, the shock fading as she descended the first flight of the steps. The next flight emptied onto the jogging trail. She could see the two story building through the thinning forest up ahead.

"I'll have to touch each of them. I might zone out when I'm doing this, so you'll need to jostle me if I'm taking too much time with someone."

"I don't have any problems putting my hands on you."

She pouted as she started down the second flight of steps.

"You better not do anything stupid like squeeze my boobs."

He chuckled, patting her on the back as they neared the building. Mizore was lingering by the door, holding her schoolbag and Tsukune's. The snow girl cocked her head as they approached.

"What are you doing here?"

"Newspaper business. My sexy bitch is going to interview the festival committee members."

"Hey! I'm not-"

She cut off her words, wondering if she could deny what he said. Annoyed, she swatted his shoulder. He chuckled as they came to a stop by Mizore.

"I need another story from you. Heard nothing but good things about your last one, though you continue to write such melancholy stuff."

"It's what I do best."

Kurumu had read Mizore's tale of two sisters last night. One lived in the city while the other remained in their hometown. The story started with one sister getting a call from her successful city sister. She chews her out when the sister tries to ask about her life. The two had not talked in years.

That night the mother calls the hometown sister and scolds her for treating her sister so poorly. The daughter learns that her sister had called for help to move back in with their mother after a messy divorce. Her sister also had lost her big job so she would need time to get back on her feet.

The hometown sister had been smug at the train station, looking forward to ribbing on her sister for losing everything. The sister had a huge change of heart upon seeing that her sister was crippled in a wheelchair. It had been a heavy, emotional moment.

"I could tell you put a lot of feeling into that."

Mizore regarded her with an unreadable expression.

"Thank you, Ms. Hajihachi."

Ginei chuckled, placing his hand on Kurumu's shoulder and pushing.

"We shouldn't linger out here. Mr. Kaneshiro is expecting us."

Ginei opened the door, gesturing for her to enter first. Kurumu paused at the step up into the hallway, dismissing the illusion of her loafers. She waited for him to put his away before venturing into the hall.

She could hear Kaneshiro's impassioned words about peace and safety as she sauntered down the hall with Ginei at her side. She honestly paid no attention to it because he was using uncommon words. In her opinion, people only did that to impress others with their vocabulary. If this guy was not in the top ten of his class, she might have dared accuse him of not even knowing what the words meant.

"Mr. Morioka! We were just about to begin!"

Kaneshiro was standing inside the ringed table. The rest of the committee were seated about the table. Okumatsu was at the head of the table while Komeichi stood in front of the blackboard. Utsutei stood off to the side behind a dark haired girl and Suriza, whom refused to sit in his chair like a normal person.

"Ginei!"

Ginei chuckled at Tsukune whom was grinning ear to ear from his place at the table. He strolled over to Tsukune, clapping his palm on Tsukune's shoulder.

"Checking in on the big shot. Heard that you were in a scuffle yesterday."

Tsukune laughed nervously as Kurumu eased over. She checked one of her twin tails to reassure herself that her illusion was intact.

"Something like that. Good afternoon, Ms. Hajihachi."

"First names, Tsukune. She's a full-fledged member of the club."

"We didn't come here to chat with Mr. Aono."

Ginei clucked his tongue, coming over to her side.

"Mika, Mika. What have I told you?"

Kaneshiro laughed heartily, demanding their attention.

"Mr. Morioka is here to do an article for our committee. I believe he made the proper arrangements with Ms. Hisomeru."

The dark haired girl on Suriza's left abruptly stood up from her seat. She bowed deeply, betraying she had two silver antennae jutting out over the bangs masking her eyes.

"Y-yes. Mr. Morioka and Ms. Hajihachi spoke with me at lunch."

"Is this really necessary for a temporary committee?"

The drawled out words came from a slender guy seated to the left of Yakedo. The snobbish man had shoulder length, bluish blond tresses and delicate features. He drummed thin fingers upon the table.

"This is vital to the success of the cultural festival, Mr. Odayakana. The last article Ms. Hajihachi wrote focused upon the behind the scenes work that went into preparing Sports Day. She wishes to do the same for our precious cultural festival."

"But won't this be disruptive to our meeting?"

Kaneshiro turned a grin upon the tall guy seated on Odayakana's left. This one had beady eyes and a long, slender nose. His dark hair was trimmed short and neat.

"We can hold our meeting while they make their way around the table. If your input is required when Ms. Hajihachi is speaking to you, we will let you know, Mr. Ashimizu."

Kurumu managed a smile as she opened up the notebook. Hajihachi had written down the names of all of the committee members for her. She had very neat and concise print.

"Where should we start?"

Ginei chuckled, gesturing to the stocky Machida seated on Tsukune's right.

"No reason to bother with our hero here. Start with your favorite class manager."

Favoring Ginei a sour look, she strolled over to the space between Machida and Jiseki.

"Excellent. The first thing on our agenda is the approval of homeroom ideas. We'll start with the third years and work our way down. Any objections?"

The committee members murmured their approval as Kurumu tugged her mechanical pencil out of the binding. Flipping the page to Machida Ebisu, she placed the notebook down on the table.

"Was there a reason why you volunteered for the committee position Mr. Ueshiba vacated?"

"I need to bolster my resume for the future. Participating with this committee looks good on paper."

"I would expect nothing less from the future president of the chess club."

Machida snorted at Ginei's praise.

"That has yet to be decided."

"Whom else would take it over?"

Machida turned narrow eyes upon her. Despite his kappa status, his eyes had a silvery hue to them much like the eyes of his younger cousin from the arcade club whom lived on Tsukune's floor.

"I think Mr. Fare can manage the club if I decline the role."

"And why would you do that?"

"Because I have other plans, Mr. Morioka."

"What sort of plans?"

Machida smirked at her suspicious tone, sitting back in his seat with arms crossed.

"You'll find out soon enough."

"Any concerns that our homeroom's activity might suffer without your presence?"

"My only concern is that Ms. Sukoyaka won't be able to keep Ms. Kashisora on task. I swear that girl is two brain cells short of a pair."

Kurumu pouted at his remark about the playful harpy from the softball team.

"Everybody loves Kotori."

"That's the problem. Why did you all vote for that idiot? At least she had the good sense to surrender the vice manager role to Ms. Sukoyaka after Sports Day."

Kurumu was glad that Sukoyaka had stepped up like she said she would in her band interview.

"I'm very curious what sort of secret plans you might have."

"Knowing him, it probably involves cupcakes and icing."

Ginei chuckled, pounding the guy on the back so hard that he staggered forward in his chair. Kurumu reflexively grabbed Machida by the shoulders.

"Rude as always."

Kurumu kept her hands on him as Machida regained his composure. She focused her thoughts, glimpsing into his mind. The first thought she came across was his current one about her touching him and trying to calm himself. It was just a girl. The girlfriend of someone he thoroughly detested. How poetic that would be. To defeat Ginei in the student council elections and steal his girlfriend. Not very realistic as an okami would never date a kappa. Though she had low standards to want a scoundrel like Morioka.

"Sorry. Ginei is always lacking manners."

Kurumu withdrew her hands, backing up against the table.

"You will die from making apologies if you keep company with him."

"You want to take this outside?"

"I have no interest in fighting you."

"Because you're lazy."

"I'm a top twenty student."

"Stop it, Ginei. There's nothing wrong with Mr. Machida."

"You're lucky Mika likes you."

"Go bother someone else."

Kurumu turned her attention to her notebook. She jotted down a few tidbits about Machida, most of which she had known beforehand. Turning the pages, she found the name for Jiseki Kowa and saw that Mika had written down a bunch of stuff about him already. She highly doubted Jiseki would be involved with Yoshii. Setting the pencil down, she turned and smiled at the okami.

"Mr. Jiseki. It feels like I haven't talked to you in weeks."

He turned his attention from the conversation and grinned at her.

"Because it has been. I think the last time was at little Ms. Matsudera's party."

"Nikki isn't little."

"Oh? I wasn't aware you were on a first name basis with her."

Kurumu flinched.

"Well… Akari and Nozomi use her first name frequently. I guess I picked it up naturally."

"She's a good girl. And obviously crushing hard on Mr. Fumusuna."

Kurumu grinned, holding her hand out to him.

"I doubt I need a long interview with you. Maemi has told me so much about you."

Jiseki swallowed as he absently took her hand. His blond hair was swept back and slickened in place. His hazel eyes betrayed his nervousness.

"She has? Well I hope it isn't too bad."

His mind was filled with anxiety. Did she know? It was not his fault that the condom broke. Not that it mattered since Maemi was so lost in her heat that she would not have let him put another one on before she milked him dry. She promised she had not told anyone about the pregnancy at Nikki's party but her scent was different. The other girls might have figured it out.

Maemi would start showing soon. He had to tell his parents before they came to the festival. He absolutely could not allow them to find out from someone else. That would be disastrous.

"How long are you planning to hold my girlfriend's hand?"

Kurumu snatched her hand away from Jiseki. Jiseki laughed nervously, rubbing the back of his neck.

"Sorry about that."

"You're going to marry Maemi soon, right?"

"Of course! She's the best thing to ever happen to me!"

Ginei chuckled, draping an arm around Kurumu's shoulders.

"Got to love these okami women, right? They push for marriage on the first date."

Jiseki continued to laugh nervously, nodding.

"Yea. Totally."

"Ginei's parents should come to the cultural festival to meet my mother. If everyone is on the same page, we will marry soon."

"I hope that works out for you."

"Maybe we could have a double wedding."

"Hold on, Mika. Your mother hasn't agreed to anything yet."

"Maybe if you knock me up, she'll change her mind."

Jiseki was sweating bullets. He rubbed his brow with his sleeve.

"Be careful, Mr. Morioka. Okami women are extremely fertile in their heat cycle. If you do brave having sex with her during that, you better be willing to marry her. You'll be blacklisted if you don't."

"Blacklisted? That's the first time I've heard about that."

"Yea. Well… it's a thing. Fairy Tale will put your name out to every okami village in Japan. You'll be lucky if any okami woman would ever speak to you again."

"So when are the two of you getting married?"

His hazel eyes widened and he let out a soft whimper.

"We were thinking next summer but it depends on our parents."

Kurumu nodded thoughtfully. She sighed, resting her head on Ginei's shoulder.

"I guess we shouldn't have sex during my next cycle. I don't want to be pregnant at his wedding."

"We just have to be cautious. Condoms are a thing."

Jiseki's reaction was priceless. His eyes met hers and she smiled softly. She could tell that he was aware that she knew. He hung his head in defeat.

"It was nice chatting with you, Mr. Jiseki. But I have more interviews to do."

"Good luck with that."

She detached from Ginei to grab her notebook and mechanical pencil. Clutching both to her bosom, she slipped around Ginei. She stumbled due to these awkward shoes but Ginei quickly caught her.

"You seemed unusually playful with him."

"I'll explain later."

Resuming her walk, she made her way to the spot of the table between Ashimizu and Odayakana. Setting the notebook down, she turned the pages to find their names. Hajihachi had written both on the same page, possibly because they were in the same homeroom.

"Ashimizu Kiniro. President of the bowling club. I have one of your members in my homeroom."

The tall guy turned a frown upon her. His thin lips were barely perceptible.

"You do?"

Kurumu flinched, realizing she had been thinking about Wanibuchi. She turned pleading eyes upon Ginei. The werewolf drifted in beside Ashimizu's chair.

"She does. Mr. Shunsen."

"Oh. You're from class six. Right."

There was a long, exaggerated drawl to each of his words. Ginei chuckled, gesturing at the lanky guy.

"So how did you end up on this committee?"

"Same as the others, I guess. Mr. Kaneshiro asked me and I had nothing better to do."

"I heard that the bowling club has a long history."

"It does. Our current advisor, Mr. Wada, was club president when he was a student. And I heard that Mr. Shirakawa was a club president and the advisor before Mr. Hino took it over in 96."

"How old is your club?"

"Almost thirty years. It started in 76. We have a placard in our club storage with the names of the four original members."

"That is so cool."

"If you say so. We don't fret over the history. We like to bowl. We try to do it at least once a week."

Kurumu nodded, wondering if this guy could possibly be working for Yoshii. Then again, she would have never suspected Ueshiba of treachery.

"What's your opinion about Mr. Ueshiba stepping down?"

Ashimizu let out an exaggerated sigh.

"You don't know? That guy was a spy trying to destroy the cultural festival from the inside. He tried to pick a fight with Mr. Aono and lost."

"Is that so? I'm glad to see that Mr. Aono is well."

"If you ask me, it was suicide. Everybody knows that Mr. Aono slaughtered a dozen monstrels including Mr. Midou. It wouldn't surprise me if Mr. Kaneshiro is covering up the fact that Mr. Ueshiba is dead."

Kurumu shared a glance with Ginei whom nodded. She gestured at the lanky guy.

"Can I have your hand for a moment?"

"Why?"

"One of my first years is hosting a palm reading for her homeroom project. I was wanting to try it out."

"In front of your boyfriend?"

Kurumu snatched up his reluctant hand, shaking her head.

"If you worry about small things like this, you'll never get a girlfriend."

He frowned, allowing her to turn his hand over. She traced a finger along the lines of his palm.

"What are you doing?"

"Examining your love life."

Ashimizu sighed as she pushed into his thoughts. He was mulling over his lack of love life. Lizard girls were extremely rare and undine girls would date a human before one of his kind. Half of the kappa girls he knew about weighed more than him.

And fuck mermaids. He would never forgive Tamao for letting the seniors kill all those new girls last year. Sure she kept most of the girls from their village alive, but not his Rei. The only reason he had learned of her death was because Asari had broken down. Her cousin had been killed alongside Rei to thin the pool. The bawling girl had offered to take Rei's place.

"How long is this supposed to take?"

Kurumu smiled apologetically, glancing up in his beady, garnet eyes. She had seen nothing in his recent memories to suggest he had ties with Yoshii. She released his hand.

"Sorry. I didn't see any women in your near future."

"Anybody could say that."

"You're from Tamari and you used to date a mermaid a year younger than you by the name of Rei."

Ashimizu regarded her suspiciously.

"Who told you about that?"

"Ginei is friends with the two survivors."

"Yes. I have made donations to help Miyoshi mature into her womanhood."

Ashimizu scowled at Ginei's grin.

"I have no business with those mermaids."

"You should try making amends with those girls. You don't want to end up alone."

"What are you? My mother? Go nag someone else."

Ginei chuckled, gesturing at the effeminate guy on their right. Kurumu paused to write a few notes about Ashimizu concerning his club and village. Somewhat familiar with Odayakana, she added some notes for him before setting her writing utensil aside.

"Odayakana Musashi. President of the chemistry club. Hitsumi has told me a few stories about you."

The man's chartreuse eyes filled with mirth.

"I'm surprised the lady speaks of me at all."

"Most people have some reservations in dealing with your club."

"Most people are idiots, Ms. Hajihachi. I hope you don't suffer from this common affliction."

"I understand that Ginei's science teacher, Ms. Yumeito, was a former member of your club."

"Yes. She occasionally stops by to check in on us."

"She does?"

Odayakana chuckled haughtily.

"Of course. Those with scientific minds are always curious. Our advisor, Mr. Miyanohara, often engages in our experiments."

"I understood that the chemistry club has a long history just like the bowling club."

"Oh please. Don't compare us to such a crude club."

Kurumu gestured at the notebook on the table before him. It had several equations scrawled across it.

"What are you working on?"

"Chemical compounds. What exactly are you wanting to accomplish with this interview, Ms. Hajihachi?"

Kurumu paused to think that over.

"Mostly to identify whom the committee members are, their backgrounds and their contributions to the cultural festival. And since I was told that your presence here is partly due to the long history of your club, I was curious about the chemistry club origins."

Odayakana sighed dramatically.

"Since you insist. The chemistry club was formed by Mr. Hakuru and Mr. Sendou a year after their hire with the expansion of Yokai Academy."

"It was formed by teachers?"

"Yes. The faculty back then decided that the students needed some after school activities to keep them busy. Most of the initial clubs were academic in nature."

"Does that mean that the math club has been around for a long time?"

"It has existed much like the literature club has. There was a history club when I was a first year. But the chemistry club is the only original club that has never lost its official club status."

"Isn't the chemistry club doing something for the cultural festival?"

"We are reserving a room to host a shop."

"What sort of shop?"

"The same as last year, Ms. Hajihachi. Tonics, fragrances and elixirs. Our love potions were quite popular with the ladies last year."

Ginei snickered with his arms crossed.

"They didn't work."

"We never give guarantees on our products."

"It's a blatant scam."

Odayakana puffed up indignantly.

"Changes had to be made to the original formula. We could not have another repeat of what transpired in your homeroom."

"You may as well have been selling them tap water."

"If only that were true. Chemicals cost money, Mr. Morioka. Our profits were not nearly as high as we had hoped."

"It's only going to take a day or two for the first years to figure it out. I suggest selling stuff that works."

"Worry about your affairs and I'll worry about mine."

Kurumu smiled in the pause that followed.

"Will you be helping your homeroom with their café?"

"I have been requested not to. Pity. I would have enjoyed working with them to make their Yomi Café."

"You're using the land of the dead as your theme?"

"Yes. And Ms. Horie shall be Izanami no Mikoto. The menu shall include things like rotting flesh cakes with maggots and the tears of the mourning."

"You're serving maggots?!"

"They'll be made of kohakutou, Ms. Hajihachi. Even I would object if actual maggots were on the menu."

"It's a theme, Mika. Every class that does a café is encouraged to have one to distinguish themselves from the others."

Kurumu pouted, thinking this Yomi café sounded much more fun than hers. She would have to mention customizing their menu in class tomorrow.

"What sort of contributions do you hope to make with your involvement on this committee?"

"Since Mr. Kaneshiro seems to want a peaceful experience, I did propose introducing a soothing aroma into the ventilation system."

"What?"

"He rejected it though I don't understand why. It's not like it's a mind controlling hallucinogen. Though I could make that if he asked. I'm proposing something more like a tranquilizer to diminish the excessive aggressiveness we've witnessed over the course of this year."

Kurumu laughed nervously, thinking that this guy was dangerous. She leaned over to pat his shoulder.

"We can't be altering the minds of our fellow students, Mr. Odayakana."

"It would be for a good cause. I doubt that Ms. Kurono was punished for her transgressions last month."

Still touching his shoulder, she brought her other hand over to fuss with his bluish blond tresses. It had a silky texture much smoother than her own.

"You have such pretty hair. I wish mine was this behaved."

The comment brought forth a whirlwind of thoughts. Odayakana was aware of his feminine appearance and despised it. He had tried working out in junior high but had lost interest after a few weeks. It was not like he wanted to capture the attention of any of the giggling fools he had grown up with.

"I suppose girls would envy such trivial things."

He loathed his cousin, blaming her for ruining his reputation within weeks of their first year at Yokai. She was jealous of his skill for making flavorful tea, claiming he used illicit substances. After being kicked out of the Sadou club under these false accusations, he had joined the chemistry club.

"I just heard from Mr. Ashimizu that the reason why Mr. Ueshiba stepped down was because he was a spy and had attacked Mr. Aono."

"Mr. Ashimizu forgets that such things are meant to remain a secret."

"Do you have an opinion on the matter?"

"I don't. And I would prefer that you remove your hand from me."

Kurumu smiled apologetically, immediately complying with his request. The passing thought before she had broken contact was about concocting a truth serum to coerce Ueshiba into talking about his allies. If he was successful, he believed that Kaneshiro would make a public announcement of his usefulness and restore good faith in his name and his club.

"My apologies. I believe I have nothing more to ask of you."

"Good day to you, Ms. Hajihachi."

As Odayakana returned his attention to the meeting, Kurumu scrawled down a few comments about the guy being bitter about his high school experience and wanting to make a difference. Collecting up her notebook, she started off which prompted Ginei to follow.

The committee was systematically going down the list of ideas, voting over which ones needed to change immediately. It sounded like they were halfway done with the second years when Kurumu placed her notebook down in the space between her next two targets. She turned the page to find the name of the drama club president. As there was space, she added the treasurer's name further down the page.

"Yakedo Migoto, president of the drama club. I understand that you share homeroom with our student council president."

The stocky man with bluish white locks regarded her with fiery orange eyes. His burly arms were crossed about his thick chest.

"You're wasting your time, Ms. Hajihachi. I have nothing useful to share."

"Even so. It would feel incomplete if we neglected any of the committee members."

"What is it that you wish me to say?"

Kurumu paused, recalling that Moka had already done an article on the drama club. While she had no idea when the drama club had formed, she imagined it had to be older than Ms. Hitori's tenure as their advisor. The stage and auditorium had been built back in 85 so it probably was not older than that.

"We could start with where you are from."

"Moegara."

The curtness of his response bothered her.

"And what do you hope to contribute to this committee?"

"I shall do whatever Mr. Kaneshiro asks of me."

She glanced back at the board, noting Komeichi was circling the swimsuit café for second year class ten. Kurumu spied the circled lottery event his homeroom was doing.

"Will you help your homeroom with the lottery?"

"If it is required of me."

She frowned at his standoffish nature.

"What about the play your club is performing?"

His shoulders relaxed as he let out a heavy sigh.

"I have turned that matter over to Mr. Shikusa. Hopefully he will make a better club president than I."

"I'm sure you did-"

"I did nothing, Ms. Hajihachi. I squandered this position of responsibility and allowed two of my ladies to perish. Most of my first year girls transferred out of the school. The only one left is Ms. Shirayuki, whom is clearly doing better in your club. I am a failure. At least with this committee I can appear to be useful."

His seething fury with himself sounded genuine. She rested a hand on his broad shoulder.

"You can't blame yourself for that."

Aware that this could all be theatrics, she peeked into his mind. He had been there when the attack happened. He had failed to prevent the girls in his company from being taken from him. But what hurt him more was how he had yielded to Lord Chiki's threats. He was told that he could either blame Ms. Hitori or be charged with murder. Out of fear, he had betrayed his advisor.

"No. I am to blame. And this is the only atonement I have left."

Kurumu squeezed his shoulder in comfort. There was nothing nefarious about this guy.

"I hope you can learn to let that go, Mr. Yakedo."

"It's all I have, Ms. Hajihachi."

Patting his shoulder, she turned away from him. She jotted down the note about his successor, figuring Mika could provide more details. Putting her pencil down, she turned to the treasurer.

"Okumatsu Sen. I hope you don't mind if I interview you."

The sneering senior recoiled from her words.

"What?! Why?!"

"Is there a problem?"

Kurumu smiled at Kaneshiro, gesturing at the treasurer.

"I was simply asking to interview the student council members."

"Is that necessary? The paper has already done an article on the current student council."

Kurumu frowned at Utsutei.

"Then can I ask a question about something unrelated to the article? I must admit that I am curious what the student council members think about the situation with Mr. Ueshiba."

"And how much do you know about the situation, Ms. Hajihachi?"

Kurumu smiled at Utsutei, aware that she had completely stopped the meeting with this conversation. She turned and gestured to Ashimizu.

"I was told that he attacked Mr. Aono which piqued my interest. The announcement this morning was far kinder, implying that he quit."

"We would rather not make public this attack. It could cause panic among the students."

"Obviously Mr. Ueshiba was still in contact with his junior high cohorts."

Kurumu frowned at Okumatsu's remark.

"Which junior high cohorts are we speaking about?"

"Mr. Ueshiba was associated with Mr. Nibuoto, a known Outcast. No doubt they wish to wreak havoc upon the cultural festival after what happened to Mr. Midou."

"While I'm sure that the Outcasts are bitter over what happened last term, we can't declare their guilt from a vague statement of familiarity. How do you know that Mr. Ueshiba was on speaking terms with Mr. Nibuoto?"

Okumatsu scowled at Utsutei.

"He attended the same junior high serving the Sanjo area."

"And Mr. Yakedo attended the same junior high as Mr. Midou. Are you accusing him of treachery?"

"Perhaps he is a spy too!"

Kurumu placed a hand on Okumatsu's shoulder, drawing his attention. She peered into his ruffled bangs behind which his eyes remained hidden.

"Calm down, Mr. Okumatsu. I'm certain that Mr. Yakedo is only here with good intentions."

There was panic inside Okumatsu's mind. He was certain that the Outcasts were involved and that they would target everyone involved in the festival committee. He wanted to be excused of these meetings to avoid any possible threat to his life. He was clueless about Ueshiba's demise or the involvement of Yoshii.

After a long, tense moment, Okumatsu shrugged off her touch with a scowl.

"How can you possibly vouch for him? He'd say anything to save his own skin."

"We all understand how you feel, Mr. Okumatsu. Do you require anything else from him, Ms. Hajihachi?"

Kurumu smiled at Kaneshiro, certain that he must have deduced her intentions.

"No. And I apologize for disrupting your meeting."

"Let me handle your notebook for now."

Kurumu frowned as Ginei gathered up her things with a grin.

"What for?"

"So you can have your hands free when you chat with the other student council members."

Kurumu smiled, wandering over to the blackboard to stand next to Komeichi. She absently touched the shoulder of the secretary. It was strange being taller than this girl.

"So what's your opinion about Mr. Ueshiba?"

"I never expected him to be a spy, if that's what you're asking."

Recalling that this girl freaked out upon seeing Mizore's ice clone crumble, Kurumu expected innocence. What she found was a calm, calculating girl whom was analyzing what Kaneshiro gained from pulling off this stunt. She suspected this interview process was to sow seeds of discord within the group when they needed solidarity. How would they ever get anything done if nobody trusted each other?

"You're the daughter of the mayor of Aserutani."

Komeichi frowned, glancing at Kurumu's hand on her shoulder.

"I am. Is that relevant?"

Like Okumatsu, Komeichi was unaware of Ueshiba's death and had no idea about Yoshii's presence. Taking in a breath, Kurumu removed her hand.

"It's nothing. I should get over to my next interviews."

"Yes. Can we resume our meeting now?"

Kaneshiro chuckled as Kurumu started walking away.

"Yes, of course. On to the first years."

Ginei had moved her notebook and was seated on the table between the dark haired Hisomeru and the wiry Suriza. He nodded in the direction of Utsutei and she smiled. She adjusted course, intentionally tripping into Utsutei. His hands reflexively found her sides as she grabbed his torso.

"Whoa there."

Kurumu laughed as she allowed him to help her. She kept her hands on his side as she peered up into his eyes. She managed a smile.

"Sorry. I guess I tripped over my own feet."

"I've seen worse."

He was suspicious of Okumatsu. He was also curious if Kaneshiro had told her about Ueshiba's death and she was playing dumb. He wondered why she was doing these interviews instead of Kurono. With the ability to read minds, they could find out whom alerted that bastard about Ueshiba's capture. It had to be somebody in this room.

"Do you think someone else in this room is a spy?"

He regarded her thoughtfully with his hands gently on her shoulders.

"I suppose it is possible that someone was watching the altercation between Mr. Aono and Mr. Ueshiba. If only we could be sure that everyone here had good intentions."

He was wondering why she seemed shorter. He could have sworn she was about the same height as those two Okayama chicks she often was with. That pixie haired one with the younger brother was one feisty bird with a sexy accent. He wondered if he could make that sassy girl coo like a dove if he rubbed feathers with her.

Kurumu broke contact with him, withdrawing back a step before his fantasies became too explicit. She laughed nervously, rubbing her shoulders where he had been touching.

"So… I saw your homeroom was doing a play."

"Tentatively. Clubs have priority over homerooms when it comes to stage time. We still have a few clubs we have not heard back from as to whether or not they'll be doing something for the cultural festival."

"Are you going to be an actor?"

"I think you should continue your interviews, Ms. Hajihachi. Unless there is something else you require?"

Kurumu smiled sheepishly, knowing she had nothing relevant to talk about. She wanted to let Mika know about Utsutei's interest in her friend. Taking in a deep breath, she wandered over to Ginei.

"Have a nice trip?"

"He was good to me."

"And so am I. I even turned the page for you."

He pointed at the notebook which was opened to the page with the names of her next two committee members. She smiled at the dark haired girl on her left.

"Hisomeru Nise, president of the origami club."

"Yes! I didn't know Mr. Ueshiba at all!"

Kurumu laughed, reaching out to the tense girl. Hisomeru flinched, pulling away instinctively.

"It's okay. I'm not even writing about Mr. Ueshiba."

Hisomeru relaxed, allowing Kurumu to place a hand on her shoulder.

"What do you want to know?"

Hisomeru was concerned about Okumatsu's accusations. One of the members of her small club was Suda Katami, a second year from Mononoke whom had been friends with Hinagiku Hideo, another local kid whom had been killed in the Midou altercation. Hisomeru had talked Suda out of joining the Outcasts, needing his presence to remain an official club since they only had four members.

Another member of her tiny club was Mabushi Orochi, a first year. Kurumu recognized him in Hisomeru's memories as one of the forgettable boys from class one. Mabushi was from Bokuseki which was one of the communities in the Sanjo area. The last member of her club was Yoshida Kero, a chubby first year kappa from class five.

"Stuff about your club and yourself. I understand that you and Mr. Suriza come from Zakimiya, the same village that the two new teachers are from."

The girl managed a smile. Her lips were thin and her nose was tiny. Her eyes remained hidden beneath a curtain of ebony bangs.

"I remember Mr. Ashibue. He taught the fifth and sixth grades. He was a nice teacher."

"He taught two grades?"

"Zakimiya is a smaller village. Didn't they combine grades for your elementary school?"

Kurumu grinned at her knowledge about the elementary school in Watasora. She withdrew her hand after finding nothing incriminating in Hisomeru's recent memories.

"Nope. I'm from Morihochou so I went to Watasora for school."

"Watasora? That's where Mimori High is."

"It is. Whom is the advisor for your club?"

"Ms. Zaiten."

That made some sense how a random guy from class five ended up in their small club.

"How long has your club been around?"

"I have no idea. I only joined because Ms. Zaiten asked me to when I was a first year. The club needed members or it would be shut down."

"I'm guessing your club isn't doing anything for the cultural festival."

"There's only four of us. We decided to concentrate on our homeroom activities."

"Do you think you'll be involved in the play your homeroom is doing?"

"I doubt that."

"Whom will be taking over your club?"

"I think it won't be a problem if Mr. Suda takes over. But I haven't asked him yet. He might refuse."

Kurumu was about to ask why when she realized the answer. He was a monstrel. Hisomeru would not explain that while sitting next to Okumatsu.

"I understand that you and Mr. Suriza will be taking key positions on the committee."

"Yes. I will be following Mr. Kaneshiro around like a shadow after today."

Kurumu shooed Ginei aside so that she could start writing in her notebook.

"I doubt he needs that much attention. It was fun talking to you, Ms. Hisomeru."

The girl murmured a response as Kurumu jotted down the details about the tiny origami club. Kurumu glanced at Suriza whom had already turned his attention upon her. He remained perched on his seat, gripping the table with his slender fingers. His silver hair was pulled back in a ponytail and his large eyes lacked any whiteness. They were black with smoky centers, drawing her in.

"Suriza Haiiro, president of the billiards club."

His forked tongue whisked out beneath his broad nose. His lips pulled back in a toothy grin.

"I trust you didn't frighten Ms. Hisomeru too much. She's always been skittish around strangers."

"I think she's more rattled by Mr. Okumatsu's accusations of there being another spy."

Suriza nodded, rocking back and forth on the balls of his feet upon his chair.

"Ah yes. The situation with Mr. Ueshiba. Nasty business."

"What do you think about that?"

"I think the school has had enough major upheavals this year. Not that anyone would complain about the loss of Mr. Kuyo and Mr. Midou. The school is a safer place without those two around."

Kurumu nodded, resisting the temptation to take a seat on the table beside the guy. With the way he was perched, she worried that touching his shoulder would look awkward.

"I take it that the billiards club won't be doing anything for the cultural festival."

"I decided to leave that matter in the hands of our next club president, Mr. Nomikomu. But as he will have family present at the cultural festival, I doubt he will encourage the club to do something."

"I understand that you are in the same homeroom as Mr. Utsutei. Will you be involved in the play?"

"That depends on how demanding my role within the committee becomes. I have been designated as the point of contact for all budget concerns."

"That does sound like it might be time consuming."

"Indeed. But I will do all I can to ensure we have a peaceful and prosperous cultural festival."

Kurumu grinned, leaning over to place her hand atop his.

"I hope so. I have family coming to this and I don't want any trouble."

The guy was jealous of her, thinking it must be nice to be in a relationship. Being the smallest male of the village, none of the girls took him seriously. Hisomeru was the only girl nice to him. It was a pity that she was not a nozuchi like him, doubting a sprite would ever say yes to dating him.

"Your hand, Ms. Hajihachi."

She smiled at him, perusing his recent memories. He was a simple guy with simple desires. He enjoyed his mechanical elective held in the garage. He hoped that Fairy Tale would help him find work as a car mechanic and that some girl would be willing to marry him and share a peaceful, simple life. Finding no malicious agenda within his thoughts, she removed her hand.

"Sorry. I was just thinking about your club. One of your members told me the name of your advisor but I've completely forgotten whom that was."

Suriza hissed a short laugh, punctuated with a slip of his black tongue.

"I doubt anyone could forget Roki. My cousin tries hard to stand out."

"Roki?"

"My cousin, Mr. Zensou. He's in your homeroom."

"No. I was meaning the name of your advisor."

"Oh! That's Mr. Tenkawa."

Kurumu added the teacher's name to her notes about Suriza.

"Do you know how long your club has been around?"

"Mr. Tenkawa helped form the billiards club not long after his hire. I can't tell you exactly when, but he wanted the kids from Zakimiya to have a club and he enjoyed playing pool."

Kurumu vaguely recalled the story the Zakimiya teacher had told at the assembly which kicked off the second term. Tenkawa and Yokoyama had been fellow graduates of those twin teachers.

"So most of the students in your club are from your village."

"More than half of us are."

Writing that down, she figured she could ask Ginei about the specifics later. She picked up her notebook, holding it to her bosom as she smiled at Suriza.

"I think I have enough for you. Thank you for your time."

Suriza nodded, turning his attention back to the meeting. Kurumu noted that the committee was more than halfway done with the first year activities. Flashing Ginei a grin, she sauntered around Suriza to make her way to her next interviews.

The figure seated on Suriza's right had to be Hamanaka Isamu, since he was the only person on the committee that Kurumu had never met. The tall, slender guy was wearing a theatrical mask and a cap which was stitched with a sheet of white satin. As the fabric fell to his narrow shoulders, this guy had effectively hidden his face and hair from the public view.

Kurumu strolled around him, approaching the space on the table between Hamanaka and the massive Takumashi from the wrestling club. The dark haired giant with the skeletal nose and unsettling grin regarded her with interest. She nodded at him, placing her notebook on the table. By a stroke of luck, Hajihachi had written the last three names on the same page.

"Hamanaka Isamu. I understand that you are representing the kendo club and are the committee's point of contact in regards to security."

The mask turned in her direction. Like the cap, it was black and white. The black portion cut across the right side check below a hollow, white eye before slashing up at a triangular nose. The black portion continued across the brow to the start of the satin sheet connected to the cap. The white part of the mask included a black eye. Crimson lips and yellowed fangs marked a comical mouth.

"I am the Masked King. Terror of the Sea of Japan."

Kurumu shivered at the title. Lord Fujisaki was associated with someone by that title. She glanced at Ginei whom offered a shrug.

"Kitajima says he's skilled with the blade."

"Of course I'm skilled. You don't become a feared pirate by ignoring your battle prowess."

"Feared pirate? What are you talking about?"

"It is my dream to become the pirate this world needs. This modern world has forgotten the beauty of piracy. I will find myself a crew of seasoned men that would make wenches swoon at the sight of them. We shall sail the seven seas and take what is rightfully ours."

Kurumu regarded Ginei, unsure how she was supposed to respond to this.

"He's a lunatic."

"Slanderous knave! I challenge you to a duel!"

Ginei smirked, crossing his arms.

"Maybe later. Answer my girlfriend's questions."

Hamanaka huffed indignantly.

"Very well. What is it you require?"

"I figured with you being the point of contact with security, you must have some insight to the situation with Mr. Ueshiba."

"Are you insinuating that I was lax in my duties?"

"Uh… no?"

"There is no reason to make me accept Ms. Fukuda's help. We don't need women protecting us."

"Is that bruised ego I'm hearing?"

"I'll show you a bruised ego soon enough."

"I can't wait to see you try."

"I feel sorry for your girlfriend. She's about to learn that she's dating a bitch."

Kurumu inserted herself between the two, shaking her head.

"Stop it, Ginei. We're not here for this."

"I had no say in the selection process of the committee. If anyone is to blame for a spy infiltrating our ranks, it would be Mr. Kaneshiro."

"Nobody is blaming you, Mr. Hamanaka."

"Though nobody in their right mind would trust a masked man."

"I wear this mask out of necessity. One glimpse of my face would kill you."

"So you're that ugly."

"I've had enough of your bark!"

"Mr. Hamanaka."

Attention shifted to Kaneshiro whom was shaking his head.

"Please keep it down. We are trying to wrap things up here."

Hamanaka stood up and bowed deeply to Kaneshiro.

"My apologies, Mr. Kaneshiro. But this dog keeps wagging his tongue."

"I have to keep my tongue in shape. Mika would be disappointed if it tired out too quickly."

Kurumu's eyes widened. Blushing, she swatted the chuckling werewolf's shoulder.

"We will carry on. All in favor of class eleven's palm reading."

As the committee members murmured their assent, Hamanaka took his seat.

"Sorry about that, Mr. Hamanaka. My boyfriend was out of line."

"I will have my duel after the meeting."

Kurumu chuckled, placing her hand on his shoulder.

"Now that won't be necessary. You can-"

Her words trailed off as she was startled with the contents of Hamanaka's mind. He was thinking how sexy Kaneshiro was and how he would love to prove his worth to him. And he adored that stoic, strong look Yakedo was rocking. Utsutei was never a disappointment. It was obvious why a popular tengu guy like him was still single. He just needed the right guy to come along.

"Unhand me, you wench!"

Kurumu happily removed her hand. The only thought Hamanaka had in regards to Ueshiba was that the spy had looked too much like a girl. He did not trust women, regarding them as a necessary evil to breed with. She had not delved deep enough to understand why.

"You should be kinder to women."

"My apologies, Ms. Hajihachi. But you invaded my personal space."

Kurumu smiled, knowing she had no rebuttal to that.

"I suppose you won't be involved with the cultural festival beyond your duties to security."

"You are correct. Is there anything else you need from me?"

Kurumu shook her head, returning to her notebook. There was very little to add, figuring she would get more details about this guy when she did her kendo article. Noting that the committee was now talking about some of the activities the clubs had proposed, Kurumu turned to the giant.

"Takumashi Shiro. Are you like the vice president of the wrestling club?"

The big guy chuckled, regarding her with interest in his silver eyes.

"Something like that."

"You're in the same homeroom as Ms. Hisomeru. Do you think you'll be involved in your play?"

"I'm looking forward to the exercise that comes with being a stagehand."

"I recall that Ms. Houkai took over your club because it was orphaned."

"That's correct. Mr. Mitani used to be in charge of it. Good thing he wasn't when Chopper joined our ranks. I doubt those two would get along."

"It sounds like your president is a difficult person to work with."

"Too stubborn for his own good. When he gets an idea in his head, you have to beat it out of him."

"How old is your club?"

"I honestly have no idea."

"Will your club do anything for the cultural festival?"

"Naw. We tried to do it last year and broke the stage during a practice session. We'd need to make a ring and the student council would never approve to finance such a thing."

"What do you think you'll be doing for the committee?"

"Other than voting on things, I believe I'm here to do the heavy lifting. Every group works better with some muscle behind it."

Kurumu nodded, scribbling a few notes about him and his anticipated participation.

"Do you have an opinion about the situation with Mr. Ueshiba?"

"Not really. Didn't know the kid. But a scrawny thing like him had no business trying to go toe to toe with Mr. Aono. I guess a cornered mouse does try to attack the cat. Were you reading Mr. Ashimizu's palm?"

Kurumu frowned, setting down her mechanical pencil. The big Takumashi was grinning wide, holding out his hand with a healthy surge of lust.

"I was trying it out."

"Could you read mine?"

Seeing as how he was giving her an excuse to touch him, she took his huge hand in both of hers. She gripped his wrist firmly while tracing her fingers across his palm.

"Your hand is enormous."

"That's not the only thing."

She smirked, aware of his naughty thoughts. She scanned his latest experiences, coming across nothing to suggest his treachery. Like most of the members present, he was unaware of Ueshiba's death.

"Do you always flirt with girls in front of their boyfriends?"

"It's more amusing that way."

She supposed she should come up with some bogus nonsense about his love life. The guy was only aware of the girls from Chouten and was uninterested in them.

"I think your bad habits have resulted in a bleak outlook of your future. I don't see a wife for you."

"I'll settle for a mistress."

Kurumu smirked at him, releasing his hand.

"You have to have a wife before you can have a mistress."

"Is that so?"

Kurumu nodded, picking up her notebook and mechanical pencil.

"Mhm. Thank you for your participation."

"If you ever want to compare sizes, I'm in suite 512."

Kurumu shook her head at his lecherous thoughts, stalking around behind him. The last member of the committee she had to speak with was Fukuda from the fencing club. Having done her interview recently, Kurumu knew this would be quick.

Kurumu shivered as Tsukune's eyes turned upon her. She nodded to him as she slipped into the space between him and the dark haired Fukuda.

"I believe that concludes our meeting for today. We will inform the nine homerooms that need new ideas in the announcements tomorrow morning. If you have been interviewed by Ms. Hajihachi, you are welcome to leave."

"Remember that we do have a new policy in place. Nobody walks alone."

Machida huffed as he got up from his seat.

"If someone is out to get us, they will succeed. I can't be bothered to hold someone's hand."

"I understand your opinion. But for now, we need everyone traveling in groups of three or more."

"Fine. You're coming with me, Mr. Aono."

"Huh? Why?"

"Because you have that snow girl waiting for you outside. The three of us can walk to the dining hall. Will that be acceptable, Mr. Kaneshiro?"

"That should be fine. I believe that everyone else is headed back to their suites, correct?"

There was a murmured acknowledgment followed by an indignant huff.

"No. I shall have my duel with that dog, Morioka."

Kaneshiro chuckled with a nod.

"If you don't mind waiting. I do have business with Mr. Morioka and Ms. Hajihachi after they finish. We can walk together afterwards."

"I will gladly give you my sword."

Kurumu withheld the comment that sprung to mind.

"I still need to interview Ms. Fukuda, though I'm aware that Ms. Kurono has done all of the groundwork for a fencing club article earlier this week."

"Very good, Ms. Hajihachi. The rest of you may leave."

Tsukune smiled sheepishly as he followed Machida to the hallway. The rest of the committee and council members were gathering up their things. Fukuda turned slightly in her chair to favor Kurumu a smile.

"So what sort of questions have you been asking?"

"I'm sure that Ms. Kurono has already been thorough with her interview about your background and club. And I just learned that you will be helping Mr. Hamanaka with the security."

"That isn't official yet. I've been asked to talk with Mirai about possibly enlisting the fencing club to join in on the security detail."

Kurumu frowned at the revelation.

"But don't most of you have classroom activities?"

"The kendo club also have classroom activities. Ultimately it will be up to each girl as to whether or not she wants to help with the security. I know I'd rather do that than fool around with a haunted house."

"That's right. You're in the same homeroom as Ms. Herikuda."

"I am. We've done fencing demonstrations in the past but Mirai wanted to focus on her homeroom this year. They're proposed shooting gallery was not acceptable."

"A shooting gallery sounds interesting."

"They need to revise their idea. It sounds like they want to shoot real bullets and we can't have that."

Kurumu snickered, wondering why they had even bothered asking for that.

"Do you have an opinion on the matter with Mr. Ueshiba?"

Fukuda smiled with a slight shake of her head.

"I'm not the most sociable of people, Ms. Hajihachi. I didn't know the guy. In fact, I don't know some of the other seniors on the committee. It's part of why Mirai pushed me to be here instead of herself."

Kurumu nodded, scrawling down the reasons for Fukuda being on the committee and what her purpose would be. Setting her mechanical pencil down, she took in a deep breath.

"Well I don't have much reason to keep you."

Fukuda giggled as Kurumu stepped closer to place a hand on her shoulder.

"I'll stick around. Make sure that idiot doesn't start a fight with Mr. Morioka."

Fukuda was curious why Hajihachi was touching everyone today. Hajihachi occasionally stopped by the fencing club pavilion with Noboru to chat with Shikichi. She rarely touched either of her friends so this all seemed out of place.

"Thanks. I'm sure Mr. Kaneshiro won't keep us long."

Kurumu patted Fukuda's shoulder before withdrawing to collect her notebook. As she had expected, Fukuda was unaware of Ueshiba's death and had not interacted with Yoshii. She was suspecting that Utsutei had been right. Someone had witnessed Ueshiba's attempt on their lives and had either told Yoshii about it, or had personally killed Ueshiba.

"Am I to conclude that you are finished?"

Kurumu smiled up at Kaneshiro. He had exited the space in the center of the table and was now standing by the blackboard. She nodded, pressing the notebook to her bosom.

"Yes. I believe we have enough to do an article for the committee."

"Good. Follow me into the kitchen for a moment."

Kurumu shared a look with Ginei before following him around the table. She favored Hamanaka a smile, wishing he would have left with the others.

Kaneshiro stood by the open door, gesturing for them to enter. There was little to note about the kitchen beyond. There was a center island counter which had an overhead rack from which many pots, pans and utensils dangled. On the other side of the island was a black, cast iron stove.

The door closed and she turned about. Kaneshiro leaned back against the door, crossing his arms.

"Did you find anything?"

Glancing at the door, Kurumu spoke in a soft, low voice.

"Only one person knew about Ueshiba being dead. And you told us already that Utsutei was with you when you checked on Ueshiba this morning."

"Did anyone speak about Ueshiba's fate?"

"No. As far as I could tell, nobody has had any contact with Yoshii."

"What about that Hamanaka fellow?"

Kurumu rolled her eyes at Ginei's suspicion.

"He's clean. Probably a Yuki fan."

"Yuki fan?"

"Talk to Yukari to explain that."

Kaneshiro nodded thoughtfully, stroking his chin.

"I suppose that means the threat is external. Do we have any leads beyond Mr. Okumatsu's suggestion of investigating Mr. Nibuoto?"

"That's as good a place to start as any. The last time this Yoshii was in town, he was staying with Mr. Sawayaka. I'll check their place and the homes of all the local kids while I'm at it."

"Yes. We might want to bring this to the attention of the faculty. They can break the news to the town elders and they can police the neighborhoods for us."

"That might help. The teachers certainly know the town better than me."

Kaneshiro chuckled, opening the door.

"I'm not excusing you from your offer, Mr. Morioka. I want you on top of this immediately."

Ginei snickered, draping his arm across her shoulders.

"The only thing I want to be on top of immediately is this sexy bitch. Make her moan for my puppies."

Kurumu blushed, slipping free of him and walking quickly out of the kitchen.

"That's it Ginei. I'm telling my mother to call off the wedding."

Laughter followed her out.