"Do you want softball or baseball equipment?"

Kitamori Airashi drifted over to the door, pulling a key out of his jeans. The tall kirin with short, inky black hair was wearing a yellow shirt with a black design consisting of birds flying among clouds.

"I think that should be up to the birthday girl."

Kurumu grinned at Akari's comment as the group of girls gathered in front of the small building between the baseball diamonds. Or maybe this was the back side, considering the concession window was on the other side facing the track. The other two doors into this building were both on this side, which were for bathrooms with locker rooms for visiting schools to use.

"Baseball. I didn't ask for this with softball in mind."

Kitamori nodded at Kiba's response as he pushed the key into the lock and turned it.

"We should grab two bags of gear. Assist me, Mr. Yamadachi."

Yamadachi Isamu drifted over to the door as Kitamori pushed the door in and stepped inside. Yamadachi had shoulder length, wavy, wheat colored locks. He was sporting a periwinkle tee with a graphic of a river running through a forest. His tanned cargos had huge pockets on the sides.

"You girls are lucky that Mr. Kitamori came along. How were you going to play a game without any bats, balls or gloves?"

Kiba huffed as her classmate stepped out of sight. The birthday girl was sporting a simple yellow tee and white denim shorts. Her black hair curled its way down to the small of her back.

"We would have figured it out."

Akari sighed with a slight shake of her head. The girl had thick, mahogany locks which tapered in the back. She was wearing a loose, baby blue shirt which was crimped around the collar and short sleeves. A tight pair of black denim jeans hugged the curves of her hips and rump.

"I thought you would come up with a solution. Instead you kept this to yourself, not even sharing the news with Mr. Korogaru."

Nozomi favored Akari a snaggletooth grin which most okami possessed. Nozomi had wavy, black tresses which were peppered with lighter splotches. The ends brushed upon her shoulders bared by her gray racerback top which she was wearing without a bra. Her loose, black shorts had pockets and almost came down to her knees.

"Isamu just wanted to have us all to himself."

Nikki whimpered, lingering beside Kiba. She was the tallest of Akari's lunch group, standing at about Tsukune's height. Her dark gray locks were shaggy and short. Her black sports bra peeked out over the hem of her chocolate brown tank top. Black denim shorts completed her ensemble.

"I wish he had at least told Touma."

The two young men of this discussion were from Morihochou. Everyone knew about Nikki's crush on Fumusuna Touma, a third year on the soccer team. The only person crushing on Korogaru Kajiru, a second year on the baseball team, was Korogaru's cousin Roniushi Chiku, Hajihachi's roommate.

"I think we have enough boyfriends present for this."

Kurumu thumbed at the other two guys whom were standing by their girlfriends. Ichida Taka had on a white polo and black slacks while his friend, Noboru Kuroi, was dressed in a black polo and khakis. Both tengu boys were from Hongu of the Okayama prefecture. They stood about the same height and had short hair which was naturally feathered. Noboru, the representative of class five, had peppered locks and honey eyes while Ichida from Kurumu's homeroom had golden brown hair and green eyes.

Noboru was respectfully hovering next to Michiko. The short haired brunette was about the same height as Nikki and was wearing a baggy, off shoulder white tee with denim jeans. Michiko was the assertive one of this couple. If it was up to Noboru, they would rarely hold hands, let alone kiss.

The buxom beauty nuzzling up against Ichida's side with his arm around her was Ontoriki Ritsu from class five. The harpy was from Hankyouta and had attended the junior high in Koutoukumo. Lacking a male counterpart, harpies often mated with tengu and humans. Marriage was considered optional.

Ontoriki had vibrant strawberry locks which spilled down her shoulders and across her ample bosom. She was wearing a short sleeved, mint dress which buttoned up in the front from her waist to the lacy collar which kept her visible cleavage at a modest level. Despite the garment coming down to her knees, the harpy had on a pair of black leggings which stretched down to her cream flats.

Standing between the couples was Kagami Kaede, another harpy from Hankyouta. The tomboy had short brown hair which was feathered and peppered. The unicorn graphic of her long, baby blue tee shirt was stretched out by her ample bosom. Purple denim shorts peeked out from beneath the hem of the shirt.

Kagami was from class four which put her in Kurumu's new class since boys were not allowed in Baratoge. Kagami's mother had confirmed that Michiko's father was also Kagami's. While Kagami had been happy to have a half-sister, Hatoko had found the whole situation irritating, often physically taking out her frustrations on Kagami. Things had settled down with Hatoko but the two were not friends.

"It would be nice if he was my boyfriend."

"I don't need to watch you cuddling with a guy on my birthday."

"It's not my fault that you don't have someone for you."

Nozomi snickered, draping an arm over Kiba's shoulder.

"It's too bad that we didn't take her somewhere while she was in heat last week."

"Fuck off."

"I'm sure that Touma will ask you out soon."

Nikki sighed at Akari's reassurance.

"Probably not this calendar year. If Ms. Hajihachi is correct, he'll politely avoid asking such a serious question while we are in a state of duress."

"What does she mean by that?"

Akari smiled softly at Kurumu.

"Most of us will have our next heat cycle around the time of the December full moon. While that falls after the week of exams, some of us might start early. We should be able to have another get together the weekend before like we did in July without anyone becoming too clingy."

"He's not going to ask me out at that study session. And he definitely won't ask me after it."

"His little sister liked you. Even if he does wait for next term, I'm certain that he will ask you out."

Kurumu absently hugged Mizore whom was standing beside her. The snow girl was wearing that gray, corduroy racerback shirt and black, cargo shorts that she had acquired back in October. It was the first time she had worn this casual outfit. The thick straps of her usual black sports bra were visible.

Kurumu was wearing her pink halter top with her white denim jeans. This was the last complete outfit mommy had bought for her. Like Mizore, she had on a sports bra beneath her top, though her recently acquired sports bra was a textured gray.

"Maybe you should ask him out."

"As if. This pup doesn't have the guts."

"I'll ask him out if you ask someone out."

Kiba grimaced at Nikki, crossing her arms below her bosom.

"I'm not going to ask some random guy out for your sake."

Nerume and Kakeru were standing next to each other. Nerume was wearing a pink crew shirt with white, short sleeves and denim shorts. Kakeru was sporting a slim pair of black jeans with a short sleeved, baby blue tee shirt with white lettering. Her silver locks were styled in a shaved pixie cut with a long, silken swath starting from the nape of her neck which stretched all the way to her derriere.

As promised, Tora had tagged along. Her raven locks were left down, having a natural crimp to them due to being held up in a braid so often. She had on a dark green polo and a pair of skinny, denim jeans.

The rest of Tora's flying group was present. Suzume was the shortest of the tengu girls with her obsidian locks done up in a braid which ended with a golden ring that rested on her rump. It was the first time Kurumu had seen the girl wearing those black denim jeans. A yellow, short sleeved tee with a black smiley face was pulled over her slender torso. Like Nerume, she was quite underdeveloped for her age, having the same bra size as Yukari.

Suzume was chatting with Hatoko and Kazehana, the latter swinging with a make believe bat. Kazehana from class five had her jet black hair pulled back in twin tails and was sporting an orange and black striped tank top with a pair of stonewashed jeans. She had on a bright blue sports bra.

Hatoko had her arms crossed below the swell of her bosom contained in her checkered shirt. A baggy pair of jeans refused to betray any feminine curves the crass girl possessed. Her chestnut tresses were pulled back in a high ponytail with her bangs curling down to touch her brow.

Despite being told of their activity plans, Kiki had shown up in a spaghetti string, beige summer dress which skirted her calves. Her russet tresses were pulled back in five different tails with the front two braided and clipped to the sides to frame her face. Kiki had expressed a lack of interest in playing the game, blaming Suzume for her presence.

Nomura was similarly disinclined to participate but at least could change her mind. The blond had on a black blouse with ruffled short sleeves and a loose fit about her ample bosom. The shirt was barely long enough to touch the hem of the white denim jeans which hugged the curves of her hips and rump. The jeans were exactly the same brand and style as the ones Kurumu had on.

Hotaru was doing her best to annoy Nomura. The sylph was sporting a mauve tank top and a pair of pink shorts. If she had not had that black sports bra on, Kurumu would have accused the girl of showing up in her pajamas.

"Are you two boys sure that you don't want to play?"

Ichida laughed at her, shaking his head.

"I think you have enough girls to field two teams."

"Not every girl here wants to play."

"Speak for yourself."

Kurumu sighed at Asuka's remark. The raiji had jagged blond locks and electric blue eyes filled with mischief. The girl was wearing a short sleeved, orange jersey with a bird shaped logo above her right breast declaring Vegalta Sendai. It was a soccer team named after the two stars of the Tanabata legend. A loose, blue track short completed her ensemble.

Three other track girls had joined them this morning. Taijin was wearing a white tee shirt with a black mountain graphic and blue jeans. Hazumi stood beside the tall brunette, reading from a small booklet. The gyokuto had on a dark blue blouse which had a collar with ties which she had arranged into a bow atop the swell of her ample bosom. Due to the low rise of her denim jeans, her belly button was bared.

The last girl was Aori Tomo from Moka's homeroom. The sylph from Koutoukumo was on the track team, but she usually kept to herself or her friends in the band. Her sky blue locks were pulled in wide, short tails over her ears. She was the only girl wearing a long sleeved shirt, sporting this mint green top with long black sleeves. While she was wearing a rugged pair of denim shorts, her legs below the frayed hem were swathed in black hose to deny view of her fair skin.

"You might have to play, Nomura."

"Unlike Ms. Honda, I have no issue admitting that I'm here only for the cake."

Hotaru snickered, poking Nomura in the side.

"Aren't you worried about your figure?"

"Not at all. Everything extra ends up in my tits or ass."

Ichida laughed, shaking his head.

"Hardly something a lady should admit."

"Says the boy whom is brazenly affectionate with a harpy."

"What's wrong with that?"

Nomura glanced at Kagami, shaking her head as she looked away.

"He should have more sense to keep such a thing secret."

"Like you kept your little birthday party secret from me despite us knowing each other for years?"

Nomura huffed at Hotaru's playful protest.

"It was not a party. We just had some treats after practice yesterday to acknowledge my birthday."

"Yea. Coach was aware of Ms. Kiba's party so she didn't see a reason to make a big ordeal of it."

"I'm just teasing, Tsubaki. I don't mind that much."

"Not much of a birthday party when we don't go anywhere."

"We went to Mononoke after practice."

Asuka wagged a finger at Taijin.

"That's not the same. It's way more fun with more people."

"There's a limit to what you can do when you have too many people."

"Yea but when it's just me and Yuu, it's boring. Four is the right number for most things."

"Unfortunately so. I always feel guilty when we go out with Ms. Kagami since she gets left out."

Kagami smiled softly at Ichida's remark.

"I don't mind. I'd rather my sister and friend spend time with their boyfriends."

"We have to find someone for you."

Kagami laughed with a blush at Ontoriki's remark.

"I'm fine being single for now."

"As all ya should."

Kurumu smirked at Hatoko's remark.

"We're all looking forward to your debut as a maid next week."

"Piss off!"

"Sounds like someone is already practicing for her role."

Kiki huffed at Hotaru's comment.

"As if that barbarian needs practice."

Several girls giggled at Hatoko's ire. Hatoko had received that letter from her mother this weekend. Once she gave it to the office tomorrow, the school would allow her to work.

"That took you long enough."

Kurumu glanced back to the shed after Asuka's complaint. Both boys had huge black bags slung upon their shoulders. Kitamori was locking up the door.

"Sorry. We had to make sure the bags had enough spare gloves. Most players bring their own."

Kurumu nodded at Yamadachi's explanation, pointing at the ballfield to her left.

"How exactly do you guys want to do this?"

"We'll just be serving as your umpires."

Kitamori started off towards the field Kurumu had pointed at. These fields were flanked by bleachers behind the dugouts. These dugouts were made with the same black, chain link fencing which enclosed the tennis courts and the huge track and field area. The six lane track wrapped about the soccer field.

The group followed Kitamori towards the dugout on the first base line. The fencing between the dugouts stood several times higher than the fencing after the bleachers. This fencing line eventually stopped to curve across the outfield to the other side with a scoring board behind the fence in the center.

"How should we divide this up?"

Akari shrugged at Nozomi as they neared the dugout.

"We could let the two birthday girls be captains and let them take turns picking."

"Sounds fair to me. You up for that?"

Nomura shrugged at Kiba as Kitamori walked around the dugout to the opening on the far side.

"I don't care."

"You can pick first and then I'll take two and we continue that way to the end."

Kitamori set his bag down on the bench inside the dugout. He opened it up and pulled a pair of spiral notebooks out.

"You'll need scorekeepers for each team. Preferably two girls that aren't going to play."

Yamadachi chuckled as he strolled by Kitamori, intent on the opening to the ballfield.

"I'll take this bag to the other dugout."

Kitamori nodded as he presented one of the scorebooks to Kiba. The girl promptly handed it over to Nomura before taking the other one from Kitamori.

"I'm fine with being my team's scorekeeper."

"I'll be the other one."

Kurumu laughed at Mizore's offer.

"You could play."

"My condition is too delicate for physical labor."

Kurumu smirked at Mizore's remark, shaking her head.

"Well Kiki can't play in her outfit and we only need two scorekeepers."

Nomura sighed, holding the scorebook towards Kiki.

"Would you prefer to keep score?"

"I'm fine with just watching."

"You can watch and keep score. It's not hard."

Kiki frowned, reluctantly taking the scorebook.

"I suppose if I must."

"Looks like you're playing then."

Nomura huffed at Hotaru's grin.

"We still have enough girls for someone to hang out on the bench."

"Hand that other one over to Mizore."

Kiba nodded, surrendering her scorebook to Mizore.

"And here I had hoped that we could do something."

Kitamori chuckled at Ichida's remark.

"Don't worry. We need an umpire over by third base to watch the foul line and another one behind second base. It doesn't matter to me which of you do which, but Mr. Yamadachi will handle the first base spot since it usually has the most plays."

"What will you do?"

"I'll be the home plate umpire calling the balls and strikes. Which one of you girls want to bat first?"

Kiba, Asuka and Hotaru all raised their hands enthusiastically, causing Kitamori to chuckle.

"I was asking the captains but it seems I have my answer. Your team will be in the other dugout, Ms. Kiba. This dugout is for the home team."

"Should we start picking teams?"

Kitamori nodded, turning to look at Yamadachi. The young man had already parted with his equipment bag and was trotting back to them.

"Mr. Yamadachi. You'll be watching first base for us."

The young man nodded, offering a thumbs up before changing course for first base.

"I'll never hear the end of it if I don't pick Tsubaki first."

"Yay! First pick!"

Several girls giggled as Kazehana pranced over to Nomura's side. The blond rolled her silver eyes.

"Don't make me regret this."

"If you care so much, you'll play."

"Well my first two will be Nozomi and Akari."

"Bitch."

Kiba smirked at Nikki.

"You know it."

"I get two, right? Then I'll take Ms. Tobuyoku and Hotaru."

"I always knew that you loved me."

"Go sit on the bench."

"I'll take Nikki and Kakeru."

Nomura paused, glancing over the remaining group.

"Ms. Hanetsume and Ms. Aori."

"Whom is still left?"

"Pick me! Pick me!"

Akari giggled at Asuka's enthusiasm.

"We should go to the other dugout. There will be less confusion over whom is available to pick."

Nozomi nodded at Akari's suggestion, placing a hand on Mizore's free shoulder.

"Come with us, ice princess. Kurumu can be without you for a few minutes."

Kurumu grinned, relinquishing her hold on Mizore. The snow girl allowed Nozomi to steer her away, following Akari through the dugout. Kakeru favored Nerume a nervous smile before following after the others. As Nomura's team took seats upon the bench in the nearby dugout, the remaining girls waited for Kiba to make her next picks.

"You know that I'm the best of what's left."

"Fine. Ms. Shindou and her tall friend."

Nomura nodded thoughtfully.

"Then I'll take Ms. Dangai and Ms. Hazumi."

"Come on, Yuu. I'm going to grab a bat."

"But she hasn't made a batting order."

Asuka waved dismissively at Taijin as she started through the dugout.

"Of course I'll be first. I'm fast and fast runners always bat first."

Kiba snickered as Taijin followed after her friend. She glanced over the remaining girls as Hazumi and Michiko wandered into the dugout to sit with the rest of their teammates. Kiba frowned.

"Are any of you good?"

Kurumu laughed, noticing the only remaining picks were the two harpies, herself, Nerume and Tora. Nerume pouted, crossing her arms below the very subtle swell of her bosom.

"I like gym."

"To be frank, I would be fine sitting on the bench."

After Tora's remark, Ontoriki smiled apologetically.

"I've never played a game of baseball before."

"It's just like softball."

"You were good at that. Not me."

"Yea, but I'm hoping to be on the same team as my sister."

Kiba sighed, rubbing the back of her neck.

"Since she doesn't want to be on my team, I guess I'll take Kurono and the runt."

"I have half a mind to leave Ms. Kagami to you. But I'd rather have her than Ms. Ontoriki."

"I'm sorry."

"Nothing to apologize over. You're not dressed to play so it would be dumb to pick you."

"Guess that means you're with me. Come this way. We need to make up a batting order."

Kurumu smiled at Nerume, gesturing for the girl to follow Kiba. They made their way through the dugout with Ontoriki and Ichida falling in step behind them. Kiba stepped out onto the field, making her way towards the other dugout.

"Was that brat right about putting fast runners to bat first?"

"I have no idea what is normal for baseball."

Asuka had already donned a black helmet and was checking the size of the bats. Kiba stopped in front of the dugout, grabbing the fence as she nodded at her friends seated on the bench.

"Any suggestions for batting order."

"Fast reliable hitters for first and second. Power hitters for third, fourth and fifth."

Kurumu snorted at Ichida's remarks, glancing at him as he veered off towards third base.

"As if we know which of us can reliably hit."

"Yea but power hitters should be obvious. I've always been accused of hitting stuff too hard and I bet Shindou's friend has a lot of muscle."

Nozomi nodded at Kiba while sitting beside Mizore.

"Yea. Taijin practices all of our throwing events."

"I'm going to bat first."

Kiba snickered at Asuka.

"You aren't even the fastest on the team. Why should we let you go first?"

"Because I'm your best player."

"This shouldn't be much different than softball. Our tallest player should be on first and whomever is best at throwing strikes should be our pitcher. Outfield tends to go to shorter girls but they need to be fast since they cover the most ground. That's why we had Tobuyoku and Hanetsume in the outfield."

"I'm fine being in the outfield again but I'm still batting first."

"Fine. You can bat first. But Nikki should be second."

"Why me?"

"Because I'd rather bat after you than before you. I'll bat third with Ms. Taijin following me up. Does that sound good to everyone else?"

The girls all murmured their approval or indifference. Nozomi pointed at the scorebook Mizore held.

"You should write down our batting order, Shirayuki. Once you have it, you can take it over to the other team and get theirs."

"Um, Ms. Bikiyama. Do you want me to play first again?"

"You're taller than Taijin. Hey, Taijin. Do you mind playing third?"

"I'd prefer doing that over first base again."

"Why her at third?"

"Third base usually is the next tallest. We had Arashimideru at third with Touzoku and me handling second and short. I'm cool doing that with Akari if she's up for it."

"I'm fine with that but whom are we going to have pitch?"

"Nikki can pitch."

Nikki snorted at Kiba's suggestion.

"I haven't thrown a baseball since junior high."

"Yea but you were good at it. And we used to play catch all of the time."

"Only because there wasn't much else to do."

"I'll be catcher. Just like we used to."

Nikki sighed heavily, relaxing her shoulders.

"Fine. But don't complain to me if I can't strike anyone out."

"Ms. Genzouyaki. Do you mind playing in the outfield?"

"Not at all. I wished you guys had let me play on the softball team before I got hurt."

"Sorry, but we had so many athletes in our gym group."

"Did you want to play in the outfield?"

Ontoriki smiled nervously at Kurumu.

"Wouldn't it be better if you played?"

"We could take turns."

"If you two are wanting to take turns, we should have you in the last batting spot."

"I want to be seven. It's a lucky number."

Nozomi giggled at Nerume's declaration.

"I guess that's fine. I'll bat fifth unless Akari wants to go ahead of me."

"I would be happy to bat after you."

"That just leaves the eight spot for Kakeru. Is that okay?"

Kakeru nodded with a nervous smile as Mizore jotted in the scorebook. Nozomi grinned, grabbing Mizore by the shoulder and giving her a slight shake.

"That's it then. I'll go with you to find out their order."

Mizore smiled softly at Nozomi, nodding. She finished writing in the scorebook before standing up. As the pair exited the dugout, Kurumu noticed that Hazumi was already at third, wearing a black glove on her left hand. She recalled that they had put Hazumi at third during their gym softball season.

"Get a bat and helmet, Nikki."

The girls giggled at Asuka's demand as the raiji trotted over to the other side of the dugout inside the fence. She had a gleaming blue bat which she was taking practice swings with.

Being the tallest girl on their team, Aori had claimed first base. Instead of reprising their outfield roles, Suzume and Hatoko had taken shortstop and second. Tora was trotting to the outfield spot behind third base while Kazehana was standing out in centerfield. Hotaru had claimed the last spot in the outfield.

Nomura was helping Michiko put on the catching gear while Kagami wandered out to the mound, tossing a ball to herself. It was unsurprising that the harpy would want to try pitching to her sister.

"You three should probably have a seat on the bench."

Kurumu laughed at Akari's suggestion, nodding. She sauntered over to the fence opening for the dugout, stepping down. She offered a playful wave to Akari before sitting down on the girl's right. Nerume settled down on Kurumu's other side while Ontoriki continued over to the very end of the bench.

Yamadachi trotted back to first base moments before Kitamori started towards the plate. The tall boy had put on a face mask and was holding a huge black padded shield.

"Do you think Kagami is any good at pitching?"

"I think we'll find out soon enough."

Kurumu smirked as Michiko waddled away from Nomura, opening and closing her huge brown mitt. Nozomi and Mizore were making their way behind the plate, having finished exchanging lineups.

"I'll give you five pitches and then we start the game."

Kagami nodded, watching Mizore and Nozomi pass by the spot where Asuka stood.

"Are you ready, Michiko?"

Michiko nodded, kneeling down behind the plate.

"Just aim for my glove since I can't move fast in this stuff."

Kagami wasted no time, firing the first ball at Michiko. The ball hit the dirt, rolling through Michiko's legs. Kitamori leaned down, snatching up the ball with his bare hand and tossing it back to Kagami in a fluid motion. Kagami caught the ball effortlessly.

"That's one."

"I'm sorry! It's much lighter than a softball."

Kurumu glanced up at Nozomi and Mizore as they passed by her. Mizore regarded the small space of bench between Nerume and Ontoriki indecisively. Nozomi had no such hesitation, squeezing in between the two girls and grinning up at the snow girl.

The clatter of the fence drew Kurumu's attention back to the plate. Kitamori chuckled, fetching the ball with a shake of his head. Kagami pounded her fist into her glove.

"I'm sorry. That slipped out of my hand."

"Just throw for my glove. Don't worry about how hard you throw it."

"I will. I promise."

"What's the order of their lineup?"

"Ms. Antai is first. Then Ms. Tobuyoku. Ms. Hanetsume. Ms. Kazehana."

The pop of a glove drew their attention back to the plate. Michiko lifted up from her haunches to toss the ball back to Kagami.

"That was perfect."

"But not a strike. You need to hold your glove for a strike."

Michiko nodded at Kitamori's suggestion, hunkering back down.

"Ms. Aori is fifth. Then Ms. Hazumi. Ms. Dangai. Ms. Kagami. And Ms. Nazohashi is last."

Kurumu saw the trajectory of the next pitch and it was a clean shot into Michiko's thick glove. Michiko hopped up, tossing it back.

"That's it. Throw harder if you think you can still hit my glove."

"You bet!"

Everyone watched intently as Kagami adjusted her stance on the mound. She went into motion, twisting her hips and coming forward with her arm. The ball screamed from her fingertips, hitting the glove with a much harder pop than before. It bounced out of Michiko's glove, prompting Michiko to scramble for the ball. Nozomi turned wide eyes upon Kurumu.

"What the hell was that?"

Kurumu shrugged as she looked at Ontoriki.

"Did Kagami play softball in junior high?"

"Not competitively. We have arm strength but most harpies see no reason to develop it."

"But you guys sucked in gym. You only won your two games against Coach Yaisoku's second years because they didn't win a single game."

Kurumu nodded at Nozomi's remark, trying to recall whom had pitched for their gym softball team.

"Kumiko was our only softball player so we had her pitch to Yaisoku. Kagami played centerfield. Maybe Kagami should have tried out for softball. There are several harpies on the softball team."

"But she wanted to be in a club with me."

"Batter up!"

"Don't be intimidated, Asuka! You can hit that pitch!"

Asuka laughed at Nozomi, turning about and nodding with a wide grin.

"Of course I can. Watch me hit it out of the park."

It was a quick first half inning.


"Good job! Nice hustle!"

Kurumu trotted towards the dugout, shaking her head. She was simply glad that line shot hit by Kagami had gone to Nerume's side of the field behind first base instead of hers. There was no doubt in her mind that she would have missed it, allowing Aori to score again.

"Good job, Nerume!"

"Great catch!"

"We need some points!"

Ontoriki and Mizore stood at the end of the dugout to greet them as they arrived. Taijin easily reached the dugout ahead of everyone else with Nikki, Nozomi and Akari not far behind. Kiba trotted over, trying to loosen her gear.

"Top of the order. Ms. Shindou. Ms. Matsudera. Ms. Kiba."

Even with the newness of her sports bra, Kurumu held her arm over her breasts as she jogged in slowly. She would be the last off the field despite being closer than Asuka and Nerume. Unless they had an amazing inning, it was unlikely that her turn to bat would come back up.

It was the top of the sixth inning and the score was three to two in the home team's favor. It was a much closer game than expected, considering Kagami had struck out the first twelve batters she had faced.

"I'm just glad that I could help in some way."

"You did wonderful, Ms. Genzouyaki."

"I've struck out both of my times up."

Kiba snorted as Kurumu finally arrived at the dugout. Asuka was already donning her helmet.

"Half of the team has. We've only hit the ball three times."

Akari laughed, nodding.

"Yea. And my hit was technically a fielder's choice error. I should have been thrown out at first."

"At least you went down swinging unlike some girls."

Kurumu pouted at Nozomi as she made her way down the dugout to the end of the bench.

"I can't hit that ball. My only hope is for a walk."

"She's some kind of monster. How is she still pitching?"

Several girls giggled at Nikki's remark. Kagami was making her way back to the mound while Nomura helped Michiko put on her catcher's gear.

"Do you think she'll pitch the whole game?"

"Stop whining and help me out of this gear. We're both batting this inning."

Nikki sighed heavily, pushing up off the bench and staggering towards the opening.

"Fine. But I'm done pitching. Does anyone else want to pitch?"

"I'll do it!"

Kiba snorted at Asuka's offer, shaking her head as the girl strolled out of the dugout with her bat.

"Hold that thought, pipsqueak. Does Ms. Ontoriki want to give it a shot?"

"Does Ms. Kiba want to win?"

Kiba scowled at Asuka as Nikki started helping her with her gear.

"You haven't done anything this game."

"Well nothing has been hit to me. Everything goes towards Kurumu."

"If Ms. Ontoriki does come in to pitch, am I sitting out?"

"Can you play outfield for Kurumu?"

"I couldn't play it worse."

Kurumu whimpered at their criticism.

"I'm trying my best out there."

"Tomo has hit the ball three times at you."

"It was between us the first two times."

"I am already playing over for you. Short of standing in your shoes, there is nothing I can do."

All three hits by Aori could have been fielded by someone quicker on their feet. The single in the first had allowed Suzume to be the first point for the home team. Asuka had dived for that shot in the third which had turned into a double, moving Kazehana to third. Nikki had struck out both Hazumi and Michiko, but Kagami had hit a line drive directly at Kurumu. On instincts, she had moved aside which had resulted in another double, bringing in two more runs. She was mostly the reason why they were losing this game.

"I guess I can sit out the rest of the game."

"It's not like you need another shot at batting. But you better swing the bat, Ms. Ontoriki. We don't need another statue at the plate."

Several girls giggled at Kiba's remark as the last of her gear was removed. Michiko trotted over to the plate, settling down on her haunches.

"I just hope that she can pitch or this switch won't mean anything."

"I could pitch."

Nozomi waved a dismissive hand at Asuka.

"I doubt that you've improved since you tried pitching in gym."

"But a baseball is lighter."

"We don't need another slow moving, big breasted girl in the outfield. Deal with it."

Asuka pouted, stalking off to take practice swings. Ontoriki managed a smile.

"I will try not to disappoint you."

"Throw strikes and hope for the best."

Michiko's glove popped from another firm thrown. Nikki sighed, putting on her helmet.

"She has to be tired."

"She has pitched less than you. We got two girls that swing at everything."

Kiba was not much better. Most of Kagami's pitches were strikes. Her only walk had been Nozomi in the fifth after surrendering a solo home run to Taijin. Then Kakeru had almost hit one out of the park but Kazehana had caught it at the fence. Nozomi had tagged up to give them their other point.

"I just hope that we take the lead this inning."

"We still have one more after this."

Kiba huffed at Akari's remark. She stepped into the dugout to fetch a black helmet and black bat.

"I'm tempted to go a full nine like the boys do."

"That wouldn't be fair to the young men officiating for us."

Nozomi giggled, pointing to the mound as Kagami threw her final warm up pitch.

"She's just wanting Nomura to use a different pitcher."

"Damn straight. I'll be pissed if she strikes me out a third time on my birthday."

"Batter up!"

Kurumu clapped her hands, getting up on her feet as Asuka sauntered over to the plate.

"Come on, Asuka! Get a hit!"

Asuka turned and grinned as Kitamori settled in behind the crouching Michiko.

"I'm definitely hitting the ball this time. Just you watch!"

Nozomi snickered as she came up beside Kurumu, nudging her shoulder.

"Watch her strike out a third time."

Asuka took her place beside the plate, wiggling her rump as she readied herself. On the mound, Kagami let out a breath and relaxed her shoulders. The harpy kicked back into motion, twisting and coming forward with an audible grunt. The ball zipped through the space between the mound and plate in the blink of an eye.

The clatter of the bat surprised them all. The ball shot to the right of Kagami, bouncing once in the dirt before hopping up into the mitt of the quick Suzume. With a twist which flung that ring at the end of her braided tail around her hip, Suzume tossed the ball to Aori. The ball popped into Aori's glove a whole second before Asuka crossed the bag.

"Out!"

The other girls cheered at Yamadachi's call. Asuka collapsed to her knees several strides behind the bag, pounding her fists into the dirt.

"Well. She actually hit it this time."

Akari sighed, stepping up to the fence on Kurumu's left.

"True. But Ms. Kagami threw two less pitches to get her out. We shouldn't be taking the first pitch."

"Nikki! Come here for a second."

Nikki frowned as Kiba strolled over to her. The two girls had a quiet conversation as Asuka trotted in with a huge scowl.

"Good hit, Asuka."

"That's garbage. I should have beaten that out."

"There was no way to outrun that."

Nozomi giggled, nodding in agreement.

"Yea. I doubt anyone here could have been safe."

Asuka sulked, tossing her helmet on the ground with the others. As the blond fetched her glove, Nikki headed for the plate. Kiba stood off to the side, taking practice swings.

Kagami relaxed her shoulders, staring intently at Michiko's glove. She lifted up one knee before twisting her hips and torso to launch her next pitch. Her foot came down the instant she released the ball.

Nikki suddenly stepped up, sliding her hand down the barrel of her silver bat as she leveled it in front of the plate. She tapped the pitch into the dirt, dropping her bat and taking off in a dead sprint.

Kagami staggered off balance, unable to field the ball which rolled towards the gap between third and second. Both Suzume and Hazumi hurried to intercept the ball. Suzume arrived first, snatching up the ball and looking to first the moment Nikki passed by the bag. Everybody in Kurumu's dugout cheered as Suzume lobbed the ball back to Kagami.

"Good job, Ms. Matsudera!"

"Way to get on base!"

"Ms. Taijin. You should get a helmet and bat."

Nozomi giggled, pushing off the fence.

"I should too. We might score some points this inning."

Kurumu grinned as Kiba strolled up to the plate. The birthday girl grabbed Nikki's bat, chucking it over to the fence. Nikki chatted amicably with Aori over on first base while Kagami regained her composure on the mound. Kiba settled in beside the plate which prompted Kitamori to hunker down behind Michiko.

"Come on, Ms. Kiba!"

Kagami swung her arms back and kicked her leg up before making her first pitch. Michiko had to lean away from them to grab up the pitch which Kitamori instantly called a ball.

"Wait for your pitch!"

The girls in the dugout cheered similar sentiments as the ball was tossed back to Nikki. Kiba stepped out to give the bat a practice swing before settling back into her spot beside the plate. Kitamori lowered behind Michiko as Kagami eyed the plate intently.

After a tense pause, Kagami started her next pitch. She came around hard, shooting the pitch into the same place as before. While Michiko could grab this one with less movement, Kitamori called it a ball.

"Nice patience!"

"She has to give you a good one now!"

Kiba stepped away to swing her bat again as the ball was tossed back to Kagami. After a moment, she stepped back into the chalk square flanking the plate. Kagami relaxed her shoulders, peering intently at Michiko's glove as Kitamori resumed his position. The harpy whipped into her next pitch with tighter motions. The ball shot towards the plate.

Kiba swatted the pitch cleanly, launching the ball into the outfield. Hotaru staggered forward a step before turning on her heel. The sylph started running for the fence as Kazehana hurried over to assist. The ball dropped down in the gap between them, bouncing up and over the fence.

"Ground rule double!"

"Only two bases!"

Kurumu clapped along with her team as Kiba and Nikki advanced to the bases they were allowed. Nozomi stalked over on the other side of the fence with a snaggletooth grin, wearing her helmet and holding a silver bat with blue graphics.

"That's too bad. With her speed, I'm sure that Nikki could have scored off that."

"Go, Ms. Taijin! Hit another one out of the park!"

Kurumu giggled at Nerume's encouragement.

"Any hit would be nice."

Akari nodded, walking off to fetch her batting gear.

"A well placed single could bring in two runs."

"Come on, Yuu! That harpy has nothing on you!"

Taijin shook her head as she stalked over to the plate. Kitamori tossed a new ball to Kagami as the girls on the other team offered words of encouragement. The harpy kicked at the dirt on the mound, pacing about for several seconds before settling in on the white rectangle on the top. The girl took in a deep breath and relaxed her shoulders.

Everyone got quiet as Kagami started her next pitch. For some reason, it felt like this pitch was slower than the others. Taijin flinched before committing to the swing. The bat ringed out as she launched the ball deep into centerfield.

"That's it!"

Already playing back, Kazehana floated over to where the ball was headed. She backed up to the fence and waited for a moment. She hopped up on the fence, reaching up with her open glove to steal the home run away.

"Tag up! Tag up!"

Both Kiba and Nikki darted back to their bases as Kazehana hopped down from the fence. Nikki hit her bag first, turning and sprinting hard for the plate. Kazehana tossed the ball to Suzume whom had trotted out into the grass. Kiba held up at third with Nikki crossing the plate uncontested.

"Let's go, Ms. Bikiyama! Get a hit to bring Ms. Kiba home!"

Nozomi chuckled as Kagami caught the ball thrown by Suzume. The okami shook her head as she stalked over to the plate.

"No promises."

The other girls were calling out their two outs to encourage Kagami. The harpy fidgeted with the ball, waiting for Kitamori and Nozomi to get ready at the plate. Nozomi tossed Taijin's silver bat over to Akari whom was holding a caramel and crimson bat.

"What time is your Aunt getting here?"

Akari laughed at Nerume's inquiry as everyone settled in. She absently took a practice swing.

"I'm sure that she'll be here with your cake soon enough."

"Maybe we should play nine innings. It's not like we have anything better to do."

The ball popped loudly into Michiko's glove and Nozomi glanced at Kitamori.

"Ball!"

Nozomi backed away from the plate, turning a snaggletooth grin upon them.

"I had to restrain myself from swinging at that."

"Good job, Nozomi!"

Nozomi chuckled at Akari as the ball was tossed back to Kagami. She took a practice swing.

"It looked like a good pitch."

Nozomi settled back in beside the plate, twirling her bat for a moment. Once she was readied, Kitamori hunkered down which prompted Kagami to start her pitch. The harpy grunted as she threw the next pitch to the exact same spot.

"Strike!"

Nozomi backed off with a frown, politely remaining silent. Michiko tossed the ball back to Kagami.

"Good pitch, Kaede. Caught her looking."

Nozomi huffed, grumbling something as she resumed her place beside the plate. Everyone settled into their former positions. Kagami kicked up her leg, turning into her next pitch. It looked the same as the last two pitches, explaining Nozomi's hesitation to swing the bat.

"Ball!"

"Close, Kaede. Little more in."

Kagami nodded at her sister, catching the ball thrown back at her. She clutched her glove to her breast, glancing at Kiba upon third while Nozomi stepped back in by the plate. The harpy took a deep breath, turning her attention back to the plate as Kitamori lowered down into his spot.

Kagami swung her arms up with her knee before twisting towards the plate. Her foot came down hard in a small cloud of dust as she launched the ball from her fingertips. The ball hurtled unerringly towards Michiko's glove.

Nozomi cried out as she swatted her bat at the ball. A clink declared the connection, shooting the ball straight at Hatoko's spot between first and second. Hatoko twisted and snagged the ball out of the air with a wincing look.

"Holy!"

"Good catch!"

Hatoko scowled, straightening up.

"She tried killing me!"

Several girls giggled as Suzume trotted over.

"That was awesome, Hatoko."

"Right at my face."

Kurumu laughed, shaking her head as the girls from the other team jogged for the dugout. She clapped her hands as the girls from her team trotted back to the dugout.

"Nice hit, Nozomi. Just rotten luck."

"Yea, yea. Hanetsume will probably nag me all week about this."

Akari and Nozomi pitched their helmets into the dirt before fetching their gloves.

"Shirayuki. Go tell the other team we're swapping out Kurono for Ms. Ontoriki."

Mizore nodded, exiting the dugout behind Asuka and Nerume whom hurried off to their spots in the outfield. Kiba parted with her helmet and gestured at the protective catcher's gear.

"Kurono. Help suit me up."

Kurumu sauntered over, picking up the shin guards as Kiba slipped on the chest piece. The other girls quickly vacated the dugout with Ontoriki trotting off to the mound.

"Do you think we'll win?"

Kiba snorted as Kurumu knelt down and tightened the straps behind Kiba's calves.

"Depends on if that girl can pitch."

"Do you have any clue what event you want to do in track?"

"Not really. I'll find out what I'm good at in the tryout tomorrow."

"I just hope there's something I'm good at."

"Well you can spare yourself the trouble of trying out for softball. You suck."

"I wasn't planning to try out for that team."

"You also suck at running. That's half of the track events."

Finished with the shin guards, Kurumu stood up and slipped behind Kiba to tighten the straps of the chest piece. She glanced over at the other team. Tora stood off to the side, wearing a helmet and holding a silver bat. The sphinx would write her article for the rugby team after lunch. She had met up with that club yesterday afternoon. Ginei had helped with the interviews while Sangi, president of the film club, had handled the photos.

"You never said anything about Nikki being cousins with Yajima Taiga from the rugby team."

Kiba snorted, grabbing her catcher's helmet with the wire mesh face guard.

"Why would I?"

"Because it's important. You also didn't mention that your nickname was Eni."

After putting her helmet on, Kiba leaned over to pick up her catcher's mitt.

"Only some boys called me that. Mostly to tease me."

"What's so teasing about being called Eni?"

"It's not Eni. They were calling me 'en' 'ni'. As in Circle Two. It was a joke about my tits since I only have two while most okami and inugami girls have four or more."

Kurumu frowned as Kiba stalked by her, exiting the dugout.

"It didn't seem like they were being mean spirited when they called you that."

"Drop it, Kurono. None of my real friends would call me that."

Kurumu grimaced, wringing her hands as Kiba trotted off. She had not meant to insult the girl on her birthday. She had merely been curious about what she had thought was a cute nickname.

"Kiba! I'm sorry!"

Kiba offered no response as she hunkered down behind the plate. Mizore had finished her chat with Kiki and was making her way back to them. Kitamori nodded at the snow girl before turning his attention to Ontoriki upon the mound.

"You get the same five warmup pitches."

Ontoriki nodded as Kitamori tossed her the ball. The harpy waited for Mizore to return to the dugout before she took up a pitching stance similar to the one Kagami was using.

It only took one pitch for Kurumu to know they should keep their expectations low. Ontoriki just looked awkward trying to pitch in her attire. Despite her exaggerated motions, she was not throwing hard. The ball bounced in front of the plate, prompting Kiba to stand up to catch it in her chest.

"At least hit my glove."

"I'm sorry. I haven't thrown a ball in a long time."

Kiba snorted, tossing the ball back to Ontoriki.

"You better get used to it fast."

Kiba hunkered down behind the plate, holding her glove out and open. Ontoriki nodded, clasping the ball to her belly as she smiled. She stepped towards the plate, throwing the ball with less windup. The ball lazily sailed through the air but hit the mitt perfectly.

"My dead grandmother could have hit that."

Ontoriki frowned as Kiba hopped up to toss the ball back to her.

"I'm sorry. I didn't want to miss."

"Throw a little harder than that."

Ontoriki sighed, waiting for Kiba to settle back in position. She gave a little more motion to her thrown but there still was no pop in Kiba's glove.

"Harder. I barely felt that."

"Are we still talking about baseball?"

Kurumu frowned at Mizore as the ball was tossed back to Ontoriki.

"What do you mean?"

"It's nothing."

"After Tora, it's back to the top of their order, right?"

"They're not very good at batting."

Kurumu snorted, knowing that was true. The only consistent threats were Aori and Kagami. Hazumi and Michiko had both struck out each time they were up to bat and Tora had yet to swing at a pitch.

"Batter up!"

The sphinx approached the plate, though she remained on the far side. Tora was the only left handed batter, which made her difficult to pitch to. Nikki had accidentally pegged her with her first pitch during the second inning. When she had faced Tora in the third inning, she had deliberately walked Tora to make a force out a third. It was a good thing they had. Hotaru had hit a ground ball right to Taijin, allowing her to easily tag the base to get Kagami out and end the inning.

The other team cheered for Tora as she eased into her spot beside the plate. Hotaru was practicing her swing. She was consistently hitting the ball, but none had gotten out of the infield.

"Ball!"

Suzume would bat after Hotaru and was lingering at the opening to the fence. Like Tora, she was difficult to pitch to since she liked to crowd the plate. She had drawn two full count walks in the first and second innings, striking out at her other plate performance in the fourth.

"Ball two!"

Kiba huffed, tossing the ball to Ontoriki.

"Don't give this girl another walk!"

"I'm not trying to!"

Kurumu clapped her hands as she glanced at the girls in the other dugout. Hatoko would be the next batter after Suzume. Other than her single in the first, she had not done anything special. She had grounded into a double play which had ended the second inning and had hit a high fly ball to Asuka in the fourth for an easy second out.

"Strike!"

"Good pitch!"

"You have to swing at those!"

"Go for it, Ms. Nazohashi!"

Kurumu grinned at the encouragements from both sides. Kazehana had been great on defense but not so amazing with the bat. Her first time she had hit to Akari whom had tagged second to force Hatoko out. Akari had not thought about turning a double play which would have gotten them out of the first inning without Aori's single which had allowed Suzume to score.

Kazehana had hit a clean single to Nerume to open the third inning but had been unable to repeat that luck. Nerume had snagged her next line drive, ending the fourth inning.

"Strike two!"

Tora stepped away from the plate, practicing her awkward swing as both teams cheered for their players. The sphinx shook her head, stepping back in as she looked to the mound. Ontoriki nodded as Kitamori crouched down behind Kiba.

It was a lazy pitch but Tora's swing was horrible. Her bat cut upwards a moment before the ball arrived and Kitamori hopped up to clench his fist.

"Strike three! Batter out!"

"One down!"

Tora sighed heavily as Kiba tossed the ball back to Ontoriki. The sphinx stalked away from the plate, tugging her helmet off. Kurumu clapped her hands as Mizore wrote the strikeout character on the blue diamond in the scorebook and circled it.

"Two more! Let's go!"

Hotaru trotted over to the other side of the plate, quickly settling in. Ontoriki brushed her strawberry tresses behind her ear as she took up her stance upon the mound. As with all of her pitches to Tora, her windup was minimal. She threw the ball firmly towards the plate.

Like every other at bat, Hotaru took the first pitch. But thanks to the slower speed, Hotaru was able to get more under the pitch to loft it over the infield. The ball dropped in front of Asuka as she charged in. Without breaking stride, Asuka snatched the ball up on the first bounce, throwing it to Akari as Hotaru safely stopped at first base for her first clean hit of the game.

Kurumu smiled softly as the other team cheered for Hotaru's hit. She felt happy for the girl.

"Don't worry about it, Ontoriki. You'll get the next one."

"Yea! Double play at second and first!"

"Keep it up!"

Suzume strolled over to the plate as the team shouted encouragements to Ontoriki. The small girl settled in for the pitch with the golden ring at the end of her braid brushing against her rump.

Ontoriki let out a deep breath as she clutched the ball and glove to her belly. She stepped towards the plate, using more motion to whip her arm forward. The ball hurtled faster but hit the dirt, prompting Kiba to hop up to catch the ball in her chest.

"Don't get careless! Aim for the mitt!"

"I'm sorry!"

Kiba shook her head, tossing the ball back to Ontoriki. She hunkered down behind the plate as Suzume backed off to take a couple of practice swings.

"If she throws wild, be ready to run!"

"Yea! Steal second!"

"That's not nice."

"It's part of the game, Ms. Ontoriki."

Ontoriki frowned at Yamadachi's remark. Shaking her head, she regained her composure. She regarded the plate as Suzume stepped back in. Once Kitamori lowered down, she started her next pitch.

Despite Kiba's warning, Ontoriki threw this very similar to the last one. She came forward hard with the ball leaving her fingertips almost perfectly. The ball cut in, causing Suzume to hop away from her usual spot so close to the plate.

"Ball two!"

Kiba shook her head, lifting up and tossing the ball back.

"Too far in. You don't want to hit her."

"I wasn't trying to."

"Don't give her a walk either."

Ontoriki pouted as Kiba hunkered down behind the plate. She toyed with the ball, waiting for Suzume to return to the plate. Hatoko and Kazehana had donned helmets and were waiting their turns. Hatoko was quiet as usual but Kazehana was loudly encouraging Suzume to get on base.

Nodding, Suzume stepped back up to the plate, crowding it again. Ontoriki grimaced as she regarded the plate. She turned away slightly before coming forward with a twist of her hips. She released the ball as her foot came down, sending it hard to the glove.

Suzume whipped her bat out to catch the ball. The ball chimed against the bat, zipping right back at Ontoriki to strike the off balance harpy in the chest. Ontoriki whimpered, stumbling forward to grab up the ball as Suzume sprinted for first base. The harpy turned and tossed the ball over to Kakeru, easily getting their second out. Hotaru had made it to second uncontested.

"Two outs!"

Ontoriki clutched her left breast as she pranced about in circles, shaking her head. Kiba hopped up and trotted out to the mound as Kakeru held onto the ball with an inquisitive look.

"You okay?"

"She hit me right in the tit."

Several girls giggled at Ontoriki's whimper. Snickering Kiba held her hand up and nodded, prompting Kakeru to toss her the ball.

"Have your boyfriend kiss your boo boo."

"Can he kiss it now?"

Kiba laughed at the harpy's whine, shaking her head as she caught the ball. She presented it to Ontoriki.

"Later, you dummy. Two outs."

Ontoriki whimpered, taking the ball. She glanced at third base where Ichida stood with a wide grin.

"But it really hurts."

"I'll have a look at it later. You're doing great."

Ontoriki managed a smile as Kiba trotted back towards the plate. Putting the ball in her glove, she started to massage her tit. She waited for Hatoko to take her place before stepping up on the mound.

"It's Ms. Uchikawa."

Kurumu glanced up at Mizore's comment, noting that the girl was pointing towards the trail leading off the school grounds. Emerging from the forest was Ms. Uchikawa with Ms. Kibashiro. Both ladies from Morihochou were carrying several white boxes. They had graduated together in 93 and had been hired as teachers in 99.

"It must be closer to eleven than I thought."

Uchikawa Ikuki was the shorter lady with the dirty gray locks. The cheerleading squad advisor was garbed in a loose, sleeveless, black blouse and white capris. She grinned, chatting with her companion.

The track coach, Kibashiro Mizuki, had a lot of free time now that gym had been canceled until school repairs were complete. She was covering for Mr. Umatobi's courses in Japanese literature and language which were held in Baratoge. The okami woman with the shaggy, tawny locks had on a short sleeved, dark blue blouse with a frilly collar. Black denim jeans hugged her feminine curves.

"Ball!"

Kurumu tore her attention away from the short haired teachers. Hatoko had backed away from the plate and was muttering to herself as Kiba tossed the ball back to Ontoriki.

"At least make it look like a strike."

Ontoriki sighed, readying for her next pitch. The harpy came forward with less power than she had with Suzume. Hatoko tensed up, swinging her bat across the plate to intercept the pitch. The bat rang out the impact as the ball lifted up over Nozomi. The okami jumped for the ball but it was just out of her reach.

It dropped in front of Nikki whom was trotting in. Hotaru rounded third at a dead sprint, causing several girls to cry out in alarm.

"Throw it in!"

Nikki chucked the ball as hard as she could, throwing it wide of Taijin's glove. It bounced into the dirt, forcing Kiba to dive away from the plate. The ball slipped by her, clanking against the fence. As Kiba scrambled to the backstop, Hotaru crossed home plate without a play.

"Hold it! Hold it!"

Kiba came up with the ball as Hatoko calmly jogged the remaining distance to second. Kiba sighed, shaking her head as she lobbed the ball to Ontoriki whom had wandered off the mound.

"We still have two outs."

"Yea! We'll get the next one!"

Kurumu laughed at Asuka's shout. She watched as Kazehana sauntered over to the plate, noting that Aori would be up next. They really did not want Aori to bat this inning.

"Come on, Ritsu. You can do it!"

Ontoriki blushed at Kurumu's use of her first name. The harpy took her place on the mound as Kiba hunkered down behind the plate. Kazehana stepped in with confidence as Kitamori lowered behind Kiba.

Everyone got silent as Ontoriki prepared her pitch. It was a slow pitch which Kazehana easily met with her bat. But she caught it at a bad angle, driving the ball into the dirt and straight into Nozomi's glove. The okami effortlessly threw Kazehana out at first to end the inning.

Kurumu clapped her hands as her team jogged towards the dugout.

"Good job. One more chance to win this game."

"Up next is Ms. Uchikawa, Ms. Genzouyaki and Ms. Kakeru."

Kurumu smirked at Mizore's monotone delivery.

"You can use first names."

Mizore shrugged as the girls slipped behind them to take seats on the bench. Kurumu grinned at Kiba whom arrived with Ontoriki.

"Just one point to stay in the game."

"I'd rather get two and win."

"Akari!"

Akari grinned at the teachers whom strolled over to the back of the dugout.

"Are you girls almost done?"

"Seventh inning. If we don't score, the game will be over."

"Shall we wait in the bleachers?"

Akari shrugged at her aunt, looking at Kiba.

"It's up to Ms. Kiba. How do you feel?"

"I feel like winning this game."

Kurumu chuckled, gesturing at Kiba as she stepped into the dugout.

"Do you want to take that off?"

"Not just yet."

"Just set everything up in the bleachers. We'll tell the other team when we're done."

"Okay. We'll be waiting."

Ms. Uchikawa stalked off with Ms. Kibashiro in her wake. It was a short walk to the bleachers. The ladies set down the trio of boxes each was holding, arranging them on top of the first bench. It looked like they had quite the assortment of sweets to spoil them with.

"I can't believe they are still having her pitch."

Nikki shook her head in disbelief as Kagami sauntered back up onto the mound. Michiko must have removed her chest piece since Kiki was helping her put the catcher gear back on.

"I guess they see no reason to change her out."

"I think Nomura is being a big cheat. She could have at least played one inning."

"It's not that surprising. Ms. Nomura is like that in practice too."

"She's a lazy bum."

Kurumu smiled at Kiba's ire, watching Akari move over to take her practice swings. Nerume had donned her helmet and was holding a purple and black bat.

"Good luck out there, Nerume. I hope you get a hit."

"I hope so too, but at least there's cake."

Kurumu nodded, wondering if they could score this inning. Kagami was throwing her warmup pitches which looked as strong as they had last inning.

"Batter up!"

Kurumu managed a smile as Akari made her way to the plate.

"Get a hit, Akari!"

"Let's start this inning with a bang!"

Akari eased in beside the plate, staring at Kagami. Kagami relaxed her shoulders, waiting for Kitamori to lower down behind Michiko. Once he had, she kicked up into motion, coming around hard and releasing the ball. The pitch zipped into Michiko's mitt uncontested.

"Ball!"

"Nice one, Ms. Uchikawa!"

Akari nodded at Nerume as she backed away from the plate to take a practice swing while Michiko tossed the ball back to Kagami. Mizore sighed, leaning against Kurumu.

"This is boring."

Kurumu laughed as the girls eventually took their places. She had to admit that the motions of the game were very repetitive. As much as she would like to win, she was fine with it simply being over.

The pitch shot towards the glove once again but this time Akari took a swing at it. She missed and it was called a strike. Akari backed out to practice her swing as the ball was returned to Kagami.

"Are you up for watching Harry Potter movies for the rest of the day?"

"Anything would be better than this."

Kurumu nodded, wondering if Nagisa, Hikari and Ishiko had gone early to Moka's suite. The vampire was waiting for them with Yukari.

"I still haven't listened to the second CD my boyfriend bought me."

"Ball two!"

"Is that music better than the stuff you two were crowing last night?"

"We were not crowing."

"I wouldn't call it singing."

"I wouldn't call most of your music singing. More like grunts and screams."

Kurumu had returned to the suite after having dinner with her boyfriend in the dining hall. That had been around seven. She could have listened to both CDs but had become distracted by singing karaoke with Moka until the vampire finally turned in around ten. The Wonderful World album was better than the Mr. Children second compilation which had a very slow and forgettable middle.

The crack of the bat make Kurumu's heart skip, but the ball shot behind Yamadachi.

"Foul ball!"

"Come on, Akari! You can do it!"

Akari took her practice swings as a new ball was tossed out to Kagami. The harpy wiped her brow with the back of her hand as she paced about the mound.

Akari scooted back in to her spot flanking the plate. Kitamori resumed his own positioning, catching the attention of Kagami. The girl relaxed with a deep breath. She came forward with a hard pitch.

Akari swiped her bat into the path of the pitch, catching it again. The ball hopped down first base line which Aori easily swept up. The girl trotted over to first well before Akari could make it.

"One out!"

Kurumu sighed as other girls took up Hotaru's chant. Akari jogged across the field behind the pitcher's mound. Kakeru stepped out of the dugout, wearing a helmet and holding a long, black bat.

"Good luck, Nerume."

"Get on base!"

Kurumu clapped as the other girls cheered for Nerume's success. The small girl settled in her spot next to the plate as Nozomi came over to join Kurumu.

"You know. If that girl didn't swing at everything, she'd be hard to strike out with her tiny strike zone."

"She's not that much shorter than me."

"Yea, but you don't swing at all. Kagami had to give you nice pitches to avoid walking you. She doesn't have to with Genzouyaki."

The first pitch came screaming towards the plate. As stated, Nerume took a swing for it despite it being too high and outside.

"Come on, Genzouyaki! Lay off the bad pitches!"

"Nerume! Don't swing at anything you have to look up at."

Nerume backed away from the plate, nodding as the ball was thrown back to Kagami. The small girl took a practice swing before reclaiming her spot.

"Do you think she'll listen to you?"

Kurumu shrugged at Nozomi, watching Kagami ready her next pitch. The harpy twisted sharply, swinging her arm forward and releasing the ball. It zinged across the space, causing Nerume to tense up before it popped into the mitt.

"Ball!"

"That's it, Nerume!"

"Wait for a good one!"

Nerume grinned wide as she stepped out for an obligatory swing. She stepped back up to the plate once the ball was back in Kagami's hands. The small girl hunkered down, making her strike zone disappear.

"I just hope that she gets on base."

Kagami delivered the next pitch which zipped across the plate uncontested.

"Ball two!"

Nozomi giggled as Nerume stepped away from the plate.

"Damn that looked like a strike."

"Take a walk if she can't throw you a good one."

"I don't want a walk!"

Several girls giggled at Nerume's protest. The frowning girl returned to her place, shaking her head. Kagami looked equally distressed, holding the ball out towards the plate.

"What is she doing?"

"Measuring up?"

Kagami nodded, turning her side to the plate. She took in a deep breath and lifted up her knee. She twisted and turned hard, throwing her arm down as she came forward. The ball shot low and hard.

Nerume snapped her bat across that small strike zone space, catching the pitch perfectly. The kirin dropped her bat and started hauling for first as the ball streaked out into the gap between Tora and Kazehana. Neither girl had a chance to get to it before Nerume rounded first.

"Go, go, go!"

Kazehana swept up the ball and tossed it in to Suzume. Suzume turned about but there was no time to throw it to Hatoko at second. Nerume easily arrived without even needing to slide.

Everyone on the bench cheered and clapped as Asuka scurried over to the helmets to get her batting gear. Ontoriki stepped out of the dugout, favoring the caramel and crimson bat Akari had used.

"Let's go, Ms. Kakeru!"

Kakeru smiled apologetically at the cheers, picking up Nerume's bat and handing it over to Ontoriki. She nodded again before trotting over to the plate. Kagami shook her head as Suzume tossed her the ball.

"Don't worry over it, Ms. Kagami."

"We still have one out!"

Kagami returned to the mound as her team shouted encouragements. She sighed, glancing at Nerume at second before turning her attention back to the plate. Kitamori took his spot as Michiko hunkered down behind the plate. The harpy let out a breath, relaxing her shoulders.

Kagami stepped back against the white rubber as she lifted her other leg up. She turned her hips and came forward, releasing the ball in the same fluid motion she had used often before.

Kakeru hesitated a moment before leaning back and twisting hard with the swing of her bat. She clocked the baseball perfectly, launching it up into centerfield. Kazehana immediately turned on her heel and ran back to the fence as the ball soared unerringly for the boundary limits.

"That has to be a home run!"

Nerume paused halfway to third, watching the tengu hurry to the fence. Kazehana clambered up to the top of the fence and jumped, catching the ball.

"Tag up!"

Nerume hurried back to second as Kazehana fell out of bounds.

"Dead ball!"

Kurumu frowned as Yamadachi echoed Kitamori's declaration.

"Dead ball?"

"Runners allowed one base."

Nerume frowned, jogging over to third as the girls from the other team cheered. Kazehana chucked the ball over the fence to Hotaru whom in turn tossed it in to Suzume.

"Two outs!"

"One more for the win!"

Kurumu shivered, realizing that they were down to their last out with Ontoriki going up to bat. She was so thankful that she had given up her spot.

"Good luck, Ritsu!"

"Get on base. I want another chance to hit!"

Ontoriki giggled, nodding at Asuka before she made her way to the plate. Kazehana scaled back over the fence as the ball was lobbed over to Kagami. Kagami smirked at Ontoriki.

"Do you want me to intentionally walk you?"

"I'll take the walk if you can't throw a strike."

Kagami chuckled, glancing back at centerfield to confirm that Kazehana was ready. With a nod, she readied herself. She kicked back her foot and came forward with more strength than before. The ball popped into Michiko's glove uncontested.

"Strike!"

Ontoriki pouted at Kitamori, stepping away from the plate. Michiko chuckled, tossing the ball back to her half-sister.

"Two more. This chick not swing."

Kagami laughed, nodding as she caught the ball.

"I know. Ritsu was never good at this."

"I think I pitched admirably. I even got one strike out."

"Don't get cocky from striking out a girl whom doesn't even know how to hold a bat properly."

Kurumu had to chuckle as everyone resumed their proper positions. Kagami went into her windup, coming around hard for a pitch. Ontoriki swung for this one but it passed into the mitt cleanly.

"Strike two!"

Nozomi sighed heavily as Michiko tossed the ball back to Kagami.

"This sucks. If only Kazehana wasn't a miracle worker in the outfield."

Kurumu nudged Nozomi's shoulder with her own.

"Don't get discouraged. It isn't over yet."

And with the next pitch, Kurumu realized how unrewarding the finale of a baseball game could be.


"Kurono! Sing with me!"

Kurumu chuckled at Hotaru's offer. She shook her head, returning her attention to the dishes in the sink.

"Maybe later."

"You will not. Hotaru needs to study. She's had enough time goofing off."

Kurumu smiled, glancing over her shoulder. Kokoa remained at the table beside Hikari. As the vampire had returned from a school event, she was wearing her school blouse and skirt. The salamander had on a yellow blouse with red lace lining the hem of her short sleeves and collar. A pair of orange denim shorts with glossy black buttons graced her hips. The pair had broken out their English textbooks.

"Well at least all of your friends are caught up with the Harry Potter series now."

Hotaru groaned, crawling onto the couch next to Nagisa. She draped her arms over the couch's back.

"That was so boring."

"I thought it was okay, though the third movie was not nearly as satisfying as its predecessors."

Kurumu shrugged as she washed out the last of the bowls. It was the first time she had seen the second and third movies herself since she rarely turned to the television for entertainment. The third movie had felt a little rushed and less of a movie for kids.

"I'm just glad that it didn't have that Voldemort guy again. It's weird to have a dead person be the major villain of the series."

Nagisa giggled as Kurumu tugged down the door to the dishwasher. Kurumu quickly arranged all of the dishes into the racks before opening the cabinet below the sink for the bottle of dishwasher soap.

"It is different having the main threat as just a remnant of his former self. It makes me wonder how he was defeated in the past."

"Probably by that Dumbledork character."

"Maybe. But he couldn't have been the only person to challenge the dark lord."

After squirting some soap into the slot, Kurumu closed up the dishwasher and spun the dials to set the machine into motion. She returned the soap bottle to its place beneath the sink beside the stool.

"Does Milady require me to do anything else this evening?"

Kurumu turned about, drying her hands on the white apron which was fished through the loops of this black velvet maid outfit. The long sleeved garment clung to her every curve, though it was not as blatant as a bodysuit. From the outside, a person would only notice the heavy, pleated skirt which hung down to her calves, never knowing about the inner lining which sensually hugged her rump. The white collar embracing her neck was arguably the most rigid feature of the outfit.

"No. You can change into your pajamas."

Ishiko had already done that. The gnome was lying on the bed, wearing a black tee and pink shorts that she had not had on earlier. Nagisa was kneeling over the back of the couch, still wearing that soft blue, pleated blouse with a pair of white denim shorts.

As Moka had left before dinner to spend the night with Yukari, the only other occupant in the room was Mizore. The snow girl was seated on the end of the couch still dressed the same. She was holding her CD player with her earpieces pushed in, subjecting herself to the first Mr. Children compilation album.

"Does any of you young ladies wish to dress down with me?"

Nagisa giggled, pushing off the couch onto her feet.

"I could change but I'll do it in the bathroom."

"I'll take you up on that."

Kurumu grinned at Hotaru as the two girls grabbed their schoolbags. She started over for the closet door by the refrigerator, pausing only to confirm that Hotaru would actually join her. Grinning, she tugged the door open and slipped into the closet a step ahead of the sylph.

"Does the maid need help undressing?"

Kurumu laughed as Hotaru closed the door. She shook her head as reached under the skirt to grab the velvety interior lining and drag it up to her waist. With that clingy part free, she pulled on the collar to tug her head through the opening. She reached behind her, pulling along the fabric upon her back to work the garment steadily up her torso. It took a few seconds but eventually she had her head free with the outfit still clinging to her arms.

Hotaru chuckled having already parted with her shorts and top and was pulling on a peach tank top.

"Were you not wearing lingerie today?"

Kurumu smirked as she pulled her arms out of the garment one at a time. She noted that Hotaru's curls below her navel also had a beige hue.

"I parted with my lingerie when I changed into this."

Hotaru nodded, fetching a pair of cream colored shorts from her bag. She stepped into the shorts, pulling them up as Kurumu fetched a hanger for her maid outfit.

"I think it's so cool that Kokoa won her first fencing tournament."

Kokoa had bragged excessively during the meal about her success and the performance of the rest of the club. Both Kokoa and Udetama had won their respective tournaments, promoting each of them to the next rank. Negai had also placed high enough in her tournament that another similar performance could get her up to B. The rest of the girls had done well but not enough to change their ranks.

Having hung up her maid outfit, Kurumu wandered over to her pile of pajamas.

"Milady has been practicing with a sword for years. She had a clear advantage over her opponents."

Tournaments were arranged by ranking. As Kokoa was unranked, she had been competing against girls whom had only picked up a sword earlier this year.

"Milady is already a D."

Kurumu snorted as she picked up her cream chemise. She paused to cup her breasts.

"Milady wishes she was a D."

Hotaru snickered as Kurumu proceeded to pull on her cream chemise.

"What ranks were the other girls in the club? The ones that didn't advance."

Kurumu fluffed out her hair before smoothing out her chemise.

"Most of the girls were C. Only Ms. Mirai and Ms. Tadashiguchi were B."

"And that Udetama chick is now a C."

Kurumu nodded as Hotaru picked up her clothes and stuffed them into her schoolbag. Kurumu stepped around the sylph, pushing the door open.

"That's correct. She was the only D in the club because of her lack of discipline."

"What are you talking about?"

Kurumu smirked as she sauntered out into the room. Nagisa was already back in the main room, wearing a lavender chemise.

"Your fencing ranks."

"What rank is your brother in kendo?"

Hikari looked up from her textbook, smiling as Hotaru closed the door.

"Kendo doesn't have ranks."

"Every system has ranks. Even karate has different color belts."

"I don't know how karate works, but kendo is not the same as fencing. They have something called a dan system. It's more about time spent than winning a tournament."

Kurumu vaguely recalled being told something like that. The kendo team did go to tournaments but they were at separate times and places. The most recent event had been in September, but they had been unable to attend because of Lord Chiki's decision to shut down Mononoke. The next tournament would be in January on the weekend of the national college entrance exams. Obviously the college bound third years would abstain from that.

"What dan is your brother?"

"He's a shodan. After a year of being a shodan, you can apply for nidan. He hopes to get that before he graduates. Nobody in the club is a sandan."

"Really? Why not?"

"Because you have to be a nidan for at least a year. Maybe more. I don't remember. All I know is that you have to be in kendo before high school to have enough years to be considered for sandan."

Kurumu nodded thoughtfully. Both of the Ijouyama brothers from Koutoukumo had been practicing kendo in junior high but she had not thought to ask anyone about their ranks. Though this was not unusual. She had not bothered to ask the guys in the karate club what color of belts they had earned.

"I would swear that tournaments do play a role in their dan ranking. There's no way you would get promoted a rank simply because you've been in a club for a long time."

"It's usually by recommendation of your teacher. That's why I doubt anyone in the kendo club is sandan. Their advisor would have to be working with the original teacher of someone with experience."

"Could you three at least attempt to study?"

Kurumu chuckled at Kokoa's indignant response. She pranced over to the back of the couch to pat Mizore on the top of her head. The snow girl glanced up, tugging out an earpiece.

"You should change for bed. Are you wanting to study?"

"This music is tolerable."

Kurumu smirked, holding her hand down.

"I'll take that back. Go change. We can listen to the new album together."

Mizore nodded, tugging out the other earpiece and handing the CD player up. Kurumu took the player and the corded earpieces, holding them to her bosom. Mizore pushed off the couch, grabbing a plastic bag at her feet which contained her pajamas and clothes for tomorrow. The snow girl stalked off, ducking into the bathroom.

"I understand that she spends all of her time here now."

Kurumu nodded at Nagisa.

"Yea. Did Kokoa tell you guys about what happened in Yukimura?"

"Just that her sister showed up and killed a bunch of people. And about Mr. Umizake's father."

"I left out the part where Shirayuki got raped. Mother saw a bad future for her so we asked Ms. Kiyomizu to heal her up like she did that Genzouyaki girl."

Hotaru nodded, pounding a fist into her palm.

"That explains a lot. I was wondering why Shirayuki was getting special concern."

Kurumu smiled, thinking this was good enough for them. It was not like Tora knew much more.

"Yea. That's why we want to keep an eye on her for a few days. Everything should go back to normal after the winter break."

Not having much else to do, Kurumu wandered over to the television to grab her stack of Mr. Children albums. With the cases in hand, she drifted back to the couch and sat down.

"Does Milady plan to change for bed?"

"I will when I take Ishiko's blood."

"Hey, Ishiko! Are you ready to have your fluids drained?"

Kurumu giggled as the gnome sat up in the bed.

"Waiting for her to."

"Don't you two need to start studying?"

"Can't I sing some karaoke instead?"

"No. You and Kurumu both need to study."

Kurumu huffed as Mizore strolled back out into the main room. The snow girl had dressed down into the shirt Tora had given her with the characters for Faith, Hope and Love scrawled down the center. Tora had acquired the long shirt from the local hospital's gift shop way back in June.

"I can study later. Right now I'm going to listen to music with Mizore."

She gestured for the snow girl to come over. Mizore nodded, setting down the plastic bag at the foot of the couch before squeezing into the small space Kurumu had left for her. Kurumu grinned, handing the girl one of the earpieces which Mizore promptly pushed into her right ear.

"I guess I don't care what a stupid servant does, but Hotaru has to study."

"The only thing I want to study is the different ways to make you moan."

"Maybe I should take Ishiko's blood right now."

"I'll help-"

"No. But Hikari can join us if she wants. We both need to change for bed."

"I guess I can if Ishiko doesn't mind."

Ishiko pushed off the bed, wandering over to the end of the couch.

"Company okay."

Nagisa giggled, gesturing at the gnome.

"Did you hear that Ishiko had another mishap today?"

"What sort of mishap?"

"A small explosion in the morning. Everyone had to open their windows and most of us just left the dorm outright. The stench was too much."

Kurumu giggled, glancing at the gnome.

"What were you doing?"

"Constructing a methane engine."

"Methane engine? For what?"

"For anything. If we could run karma off methane, district fangs could be reduced worldwide."

Kurumu blinked. Why had she ever expected an understandable explanation? She nodded slowly.

"Cool. Good luck with that."

Kokoa slipped behind Ishiko, grabbing the girl by her arm.

"Are you coming with us, Hikari?"

"Sure. Let me get my things."

"Grab something for me too while you're at it."

Hikari wandered into view with her schoolbag in hand as Kokoa steered Ishiko over to the bathroom. The salamander tugged open the door to Kokoa's closet, ducking inside. She popped back out seconds later with Kokoa's satin nightgown with the floral sash.

"Will this be fine?"

Hikari skipped over to the bathroom, presenting the gown to the unseen occupants.

"That's fine. Lock the door."

Hikari nodded, slipping inside the bathroom and closing the door. They heard the click of the lock.

"I swear if they start moaning, I'm going to turn on the karaoke machine."

Kurumu chuckled as Hotaru wandered over to the karaoke machine. The sylph knelt down and started to peruse the CDs. Kurumu pressed the button on her CD player to resume the music. She put the other earpiece in, recognizing the familiar tune of My Life.

"You do as you like."

Nagisa giggled, strolling around the couch to sit down on Kurumu's other side.

"And that's what gets her into so much trouble."

At least Hotaru's singing was decent.