"It sounds like everyone did well on their quizzes."

Ms. Nekonome grinned as she closed up her black portfolio. The short haired blond was sporting a short sleeved, cream blouse with a navy, pleated skirt. A dainty pair of glasses rested upon her nose in front of baby blue eyes.

"Since it is too early to dismiss your class, I would encourage you all to use this spare time to study."

Kagami thrust her hand up immediately. The harpy was seated on the floor in the front row closest to the only door out of this cramped study room.

"Teacher. Can I use the restroom?"

"You may go, Ms. Kagami. But keep quiet in the hall."

Kagami hopped to her feet, slipping out of the room seconds later.

"How did you do?"

Kurumu smiled at Juri whom was seated on her left. She held out her self graded quiz so the sprite could see her score of eighty. Juri smirked, flashing her own quiz was had a score of ninety six.

"I thought you normally do better in this subject."

Kurumu shrugged, pulling her schoolbag into her lap.

"It's not my best. I should have studied last night."

Juri nodded as they both put their quizzes away in their schoolbags.

"Well don't wait until the last minute. You could always study with Miho and me."

Kurumu mulled the offer over as her eyes wandered over her classmates. The girls in this study room were from classrooms two and four which shared Coach Kibashiro as their gym instructor. As there were exactly twenty girls, they had lined up in four rows of five. Yukari had claimed the front row center spot just like she had done in their regular classroom.

Seated between Yukari and Kagami was Anko Kaori whom had been the representative for class four but now shared that role with Hitomure. The gnome from Touboe had on a pair of blue rimmed aviators. Her obsidian locks were tied up at the sides of her head, jutting out like handlebars. She had joined the auto club with her junior high friends.

The gorgon cousins were seated on Yukari's left. Tonari Emiko was the girl leaning against the wall with her hissing copper braids. Despite their audible agitation, these snakes had calmed down since this morning. Poor Yaisoku Ami whom was sitting behind Tonari had been petrified in the middle of Mrs. Sunao's first period lecture when reaching for a handout. The girl with the dark braids had to be carried to the second years' dorms for Mr. Nagamushi to remedy her condition.

The last girl in the front row whom was already dutifully studying was Orochi Maki. Her oily black snakes were curled up in her lap. Both cousins were from Bokuseki and had joined Juri's archery club.

Kumiko was in front of Kurumu with Hazumi on Kumiko's right. Behind Anko was Taijin whom was the tallest girl in the room. The last girl in the second row was Nomura.

The only girl in the third row from class four was Yotsumure Shoka. The quiet brunette was even more timid than Endo whom was seated between Yotsumure and Madosuki. As far as Kurumu could tell, the girl only spoke up when a teacher called upon her.

Satsuki was seated in the back row behind Kurumu. Like Kumiko, she was wearing the PSC uniform while everyone else in class was dressed in standard school attire. Kurumu and Hazumi were the only two with the sweater vests instead of the school jackets.

Nerume was dozing off in the back corner behind Juri. The other three back row girls were from class four. The blond in the middle with periwinkle eyes was Amesuki Manami, Nijiro's sister.

To Manami's right was Utsumi Chisui. Utsumi was an undine from Umishiro and had joined the literature club. She had frosted blue curls which came down to the middle of her back.

The last girl was Umigame Okarina whom Kurumu had talked to a good hour or so on Thursday. The stocky girl with shoulder length black curls and ochre eyes was a kappa from Sawamura. She grew up with many of the boys in the arcade club and had joined the travel club with her older brother whom was a third year.

"Hey, Umigame. Did you talk to Kiyohara about your club this weekend?"

Umigame laughed nervously from the sudden attention, nodding at Kurumu.

"Yes. She said that she'll be taking over the club."

"A club that doesn't do anything."

"You're not in a position to talk."

Madosuki frowned at Hazumi.

"My club is much more active than theirs. The guys even reserved a room to share with the chess club for the cultural festival."

"Which you didn't help at all with."

"They didn't ask for my help and I was busy with our café."

"Sure. At least Mr. Tawamuru enjoyed your new outfit."

Madosuki pouted, not bothering to deny the truth.

"Are you thinking about joining her travel club?"

Kurumu chuckled at Juri's incredulous tone, shaking her head.

"No. I told you that I was only curious since Nagisa's two friends are in that club."

"Oh! I was supposed to ask them about that on Sunday! I'm so sorry, Kurumu."

"It's fine, Manami. It sounds like they have good news."

"Yea. News that they don't have to do anything."

Kurumu smirked at Utsumi's remark. The lazy Numasaki would certainly be pleased.

"You're still getting married on the seventeenth, right? Where are you having the ceremony?"

Attention shifted to Ms. Nekonome at Kurumu's inquiry.

"Yea. Shouji reserved the Tokiwa by the Gokoku Shrine in the Chuo Ward. No backing out this time."

Kurumu grinned, jotting that down on a sheet of scrap paper.

"I was hoping that your students attend that."

"I doubt that my students want to drop in on a wedding in the heart of the city."

"I'm sure that the members of the newspaper club would all want to attend."

Ms. Nekonome smiled warmly upon Yukari.

"Maybe so. But you'd need transportation. A place to stay."

"My Grandfather has a vehicle."

"But your Grandfather lives in Sekikawa. While we may have changed the exam schedule this term, the bus schedule will be the same. My wedding will start at ten on Saturday morning. The bus to Sekikawa won't be leaving until seven thirty that night."

Before Mrs. Sunao began her lecture, the diminutive teacher had started with the faculty's decision on how to handle the exams this term. As Tora had suspected, they would be taking their exams at the school. Next Monday, the third years would have their Japanese literature and language exam followed by their history exam. After lunch they would take their English exam. On Tuesday, the third years would then take their math exam followed by their science exam. Elective exams for the third years would be handled on Wednesday. Due to athletics, any required retakes would be handled on Sunday.

Thursday and Friday of next week would be the testing days for the second years. They would take the same exams in the same order as the third years with the elective exams postponed until next term. The first years would repeat this pattern on the following Monday and Tuesday. Exam retakes for the second years would be done on Wednesday while the first years would have theirs on Thursday. Kurumu hoped that she would get by without needing a retake like she had last term exams in July.

"Will Ms. Uchikawa attend your wedding?"

Ms. Nekonome frowned at Kurumu's query.

"I didn't have the impression that she would."

"I was thinking that we might be able to stay with one of the girls from Morihochou. Like Nozomi, Akari or even Mika. I know that their bus leaves on Friday night."

"I honestly don't know if Ms. Uchikawa has a vehicle."

Kurumu grimaced, having not thought about that.

"Could they stay with Grandma?"

Yukari snorted at Satsuki's remark.

"That would be murder on my allergies."

"You don't have to come."

Kurumu glanced back at Satsuki, managing a smile.

"Are you staying in Aserutani for the winter break?"

"It's that or skip out on her wedding. Sucks that I'll miss weeks of work."

"Why?"

Satsuki favored Kurumu a look which questioned her sanity.

"It's my Grandma whom I haven't seen in years. How am I going to talk my way out of staying the whole winter break once I'm there?"

Yukari sighed heavily.

"I suppose I can ask my Moka if she is willing to deal with substandard lodgings for that day prior to our trip to Hong Kong."

"You could always ask Fang if he'll put you up for the night."

Yukari huffed at Kurumu's playful suggestion.

"I'd rather sleep naked on the ground in the dead of winter."

"If there aren't too many of you, I'm sure that Mother can manage for a night. There are two buses which go to Aserutani on Friday. I'd prefer to take the first one which leaves at seven."

"Is anyone else in class wanting to go to Ms. Nekonome's wedding?"

Kumiko snorted, glancing over her shoulder with disdain.

"I doubt that our teacher was extending an open invitation."

"There's no reason to be mean about it."

Kumiko huffed at Yaisoku.

"Ms. Kurono needs to read a person better."

"I was just thinking that Mrs. Irewata is friends with Ms. Nekonome. I'm sure that she will attend the wedding. Maybe Juri's aunt will also be there."

"My parents haven't told me about any plans to attend a wedding over the break."

"Kaori couldn't make it."

Juri smiled at Ms. Nekonome's remark.

"Well that explains it. I doubt my parents would want to go if Aunt Kaori isn't going to be there."

"What about you, Hazumi?"

"What about me?"

"Your dad is friends with Mrs. Irewata."

Hazumi paused thoughtfully.

"I should ask about it. Father's the sort to wait until the last minute to tell me about a trip."

"What are we talking about?"

Kurumu laughed at the yawned remark from Nerume.

"Ms. Nekonome's wedding. I was curious whom all would be going."

"Maybe I could."

"You're not staying with me at Grandma's house."

Nerume pouted at Satsuki.

"But I don't know if I should go home. The last letter from Mama didn't sound good."

"Is your father still upset?"

"Well that nice lady charmed Papa into letting Mama take me back here for the cultural festival. He also thinks that she charmed Mama too, though Mama insists that she took me of her own free will."

"Is he threatening to stop paying for your school?"

"Nothing like that. But he might be mad at me and I'm not looking forward to going home to that."

"You should crash at Kakeru's place."

Nerume grinned at Satsuki's suggestion.

"Yea. I could do that."

"There's not a whole lot of time left so you may as well plan for that. Get Kakeru's permission and let your mother know before exams."

Kurumu nodded, mildly disappointed that Nerume would not make it to the wedding.

"Are you going to attend the wedding with your Aunt?"

Yaisoku grinned at Kurumu's inquiry, shaking her head.

"I'm staying here with Kumiko and her sister."

"Which you don't have to do. I can look after my sister by myself."

"You'll be bored to tears if you stay here by yourself."

"Go home, Ami. I don't need you here."

Yaisoku sighed, turning a reluctant smile upon Kurumu.

"Fine. Sounds like I will be at the wedding then. But I'll be returning to Yokai right after the New Year."

"You don't need to hurry back."

"I think this whole thing with your sister is terribly suspicious. I heard that she moved into a new suite."

Kumiko scowled at Madosuki.

"There's nothing wrong with that. She just felt like having her own place to focus on her studies."

"I also think it's odd but it isn't any of my business."

Kurumu smiled at Hazumi's remark. Her eyes drifted to the cousins. Orochi was diligently studying while Tonari regarded them with pistachio eyes.

"Are the two of you doing anything special with your winter break?"

"Naw. Just going home. This brat has a birthday coming up."

"Excuse me."

"No excuse for you."

"When is your birthday?"

Shaking her head at her cousin, Orochi turned a polite smile upon Juri.

"On the ninth. My family will celebrate it on the day of Ms. Nekonome's wedding."

"Yea. They always do hers over winter break."

"But isn't this the first time you've been away from family on your birthday?"

"Our junior high was a boarding school, Ms. Morisato."

"Oh yea. We could do something as a club this weekend to celebrate your birthday."

"Hey now. We didn't do anything for my birthday."

"Your birthday was in August during the summer break."

Tonari scowled at her cousin.

"That doesn't mean it should get ignored."

"We'll have to be more aware of the birthdays of our club members in the future. We could celebrate your birthday with Kurumu's since hers is also in August."

Kurumu smirked at Juri.

"I'm not joining your archery club."

"You can't be any worse than these two."

"Hey! I'm much better than I was at the start of the year."

Orochi shrugged, turning her attention back to her English textbook.

"It's not like shooting an arrow will get me anything in life."

Kurumu grinned, glancing about her other classmates. She doubted any of these other girls would be interested in attending Ms. Nekonome's wedding. As far as she knew, Manami had no winter break plans beyond going home. She imagined that these other girls were no different.

"So do you have any honeymoon plans?"

Ms. Nekonome smiled brightly.

"He's taking me to Paris. I've always wanted to go there. We fly out the Monday after the wedding and we won't be back until the fourth of January."

"Do you know whom will be taking your place?"

Ms. Nekonome grinned at Yukari, nodding.

"A former student of mine, Ms. Shiryou Kurumi, will be taking over for me."

"That's the woman that visited our café."

"We decided to hire her and three of her classmates. All four of them will be brought in on April after their graduation from Niigata University. Ms. Umakuro Shina will be taking over the second year history class which Ms. Idatsu is currently filling in for. The biology class that Ms. Tsumugi is teaching will be handled by Ms. Shotou Haruka. And another first year history class will be assigned to Ms. Umiawa Jiki."

"Another first year history instructor? Is someone else retiring?"

"No, Ms. Morisato. Mr. Gyousan will be taking over Mr. Maruyama's third year history class."

"I know Ms. Shotou and Ms. Umiawa. They regularly attend the summer break camp which promotes junior high students to attend Yokai Academy."

Kurumu perked up at Manami's remark.

"Are either of them from Aranami?"

"No. They're both from Umiman."

"Juri's junior high has camps like that too."

"Yea. Lots of junior highs are willing to host them since the high schools pay for it."

"You got paid to promote the school?"

Juri giggled, shaking her head.

"No. The school pays for stuff like food and materials. Most of the girls that regularly volunteer are from Kabashita so it makes sense that those new teachers were from Umiman."

"I wonder if Ms. Shiryou ever volunteered for a summer camp."

"I honestly couldn't answer that. I've never thought to drop in on the summer camps in Aserutani."

Kurumu nodded thoughtfully at Ms. Nekonome's response.

"Did you hear about Mrs. Meirowasa being hired for the Health and Wellness elective?"

"I did. I also learned that another former classmate of mine, Mr. Houbi Yuutan, is the person whom Mr. Hirata recommended for taking over the soccer team and first year boys' gym. I understand that both of them will begin working here at the start of next term."

"But the school won't be fixed by then. How can we have gym?"

"The soccer team can still have practice, Ms. Morisato."

Juri smiled sheepishly, glancing aside with a blush.

"Do you know whom will take over as the advisor for the newspaper club?"

"That will be up to the club president, Ms. Kurono."

"But don't they need to have one for the new student council?"

"The club won't need a new advisor while I'm still around. But if a club doesn't have an advisor and four members by the first weekend of May, it would no longer be recognized as an official club."

"Which means that I would need to register with an official club."

"Correct, Ms. Sendou."

Ms. Nekonome glanced at the watch on her wrist.

"It seems that enough time has passed. Remember to keep quiet in the hall if you leave the room."

"Hold on. I'll come with you."

Ms. Nekonome frowned as Kurumu got to her feet. Both Anko and Nomura headed out of the room as other girls stood up.

"That isn't necessary."

"It's not like Ms. Kuwabara will be here soon and I need to talk with Moka and Ms. Hitori."

"Very well. Come along."

Kurumu pranced between Kumiko and Hazumi, offering Yukari a grin as she passed by. The witch huffed, finding her textbook more interesting as Kurumu followed Ms. Nekonome out of the classroom.

The first thing Kurumu noticed upon stepping out into the hall was that the door across the hall was closed. Inside that study room were the girls from classes one and three. Right now they had Ms. Uchikawa's chemistry lecture which Kurumu had had last period. They would finish soon.

They started down the hall to the left. Kurumu grinned upon spying Coach Kibashiro lingering at the door on the left side of the hall which was for classes six and eight. The gym instructor was sporting a gray polo and black slacks.

"Good afternoon, Ms. Kibashiro."

The shaggy haired teacher favored them a snaggletooth grin as they approached. The open door on the right side was for classes five and seven. Coach Kibashiro must have finished her history lesson and was waiting on Ms. Komeshita to finish up her English lecture.

"Good afternoon, Ms. Kurono. Still planning to join us for practice?"

"Of course I am. Will you be attending Ms. Nekonome's wedding?"

Coach Kibashiro wagged a hand which encouraged Ms. Nekonome to stop instead of walking by. A glance through the open door revealed that the librarian, Ms. Bakudai, was already inside the study room with the girls from classes five and seven. Filling in for Mr. Ashibue's Japanese language and literature class, the ponytailed brunette was likely waiting on missing students before starting her lecture. The librarian had on a peach blouse and a straight skirt which threatened to touch the floor.

"That depends on if Ms. Nekonome is serving alcohol."

"Of course we are. You are more than welcome to attend."

Coach Kibashiro chuckled, rubbing the back of her neck.

"Well Ikuki and I will still be in heat that weekend."

"Oh! That would be a problem."

"Yea. Drunk and in heat with a bunch of guys is not going to end well for us."

"Can't you just not drink?"

"Impossible for a couple of single, lonely ladies at a wedding. We'll have to pass."

"I understand. When Ms. Kurono mentioned staying with some girls from your village, I was wondering if either of you owned a vehicle."

"I don't but Ikuki's family has one parked near Watasora. We could go but I doubt that would be smart given the state we would be in."

"Yes, well… try not to rush through your last lecture today."

"As if you won't do the same."

Ms. Nekonome smirked, starting down the hall which prompted Kurumu to follow. This next door on the left would be their destination. Kagami was already at the closed door.

"I didn't think you would try out for the track team."

"It's just something I'm toying with. I have a bunch of friends on the team."

"What are you doing here, Ms. Kagami?"

"I'm planning to visit with my sister."

Ms. Nekonome chuckled, knocking on the door.

"Well don't expect a long visit. I want to start my last lecture of the day as soon as these girls are ready."

The door opened right at the end of the sentence. The crimson haired woman regarding them with hazel eyes was Ms. Hitori Miko whom had been Kurumu's home economics teacher but was filling in for Mr. Hirojima's Japanese literature and language class. The phoenix had her bangs and reddish locks trimmed short with the rest of her tresses gathered into a healthy ponytail. She was sporting a yellow, buttoned up blouse with tan capris.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Hitori. I hope I'm not interrupting."

"You aren't. I'm allowing them a study hall since I forgot my notes at home."

"But you have a two hour break between your two classes. You could have gone home for your notes."

"It hardly seemed fair to this class after I had already given the other class a study hall."

As Ms. Nekonome sighed at her colleague's reasoning, Kurumu grinned, glancing over the girls in the room. There were twenty three girls in classes nine and eleven, requiring a partial fifth row. The lucky three girls in the front were none other than Michiko, Kiki and the silver haired Moka.

"Could you attend the drama club meeting today, Ms. Hitori?"

"I suppose that I could do that."

Ms. Nekonome chuckled at the impassive response.

"Reluctant to go home to your lover?"

"He has overstayed his welcome. What exactly are you wanting me to do at this club meeting?"

Kurumu smiled softly, wondering what was going on between Ms. Hitori and the phoenix named Huang whom had been summoned by the overenthusiastic foreigner with the same last name.

"Well I know that my track tryout is at the same time as your club meeting. I just wanted to make sure that someone was watching over Mizore for me."

"Sounds simple enough."

The teacher turned to address the class as Ms. Nekonome entered the room.

"Okay, ladies. Class is over. I'm sure that Ms. Nekonome will let you have a short break."

"Yes. Now would be a good time to use the restroom."

Kurumu stepped aside, allowing Ms. Hitori to exit the room. Once the woman was out, Kagami entered first and hurried over to her sister. Kurumu slowly followed, allowing her eyes to wander.

Kurumu knew most of the girls in this room. Kokoa was sitting behind Moka in the center of the first complete row. On Kokoa's right was Ishiko while Nagisa sat to her left. The girl on the far end behind Kiki was Doronuma Kiriko. She was the singer for the music club and had short, ebony locks which were cut in a boyish manner. While she came from Ikinakawa, she was not an undine like Nagisa's other friends.

The other girl in the front row closest to the door was Hasegawa Kasumi from the kimono club. Her pistachio tresses were pulled back in a ponytail which touched the floor with her bangs cut straight across the brow in the hime style. The undine came from Umiman.

The second row of girls were all from Kokoa's class nine. Sitting behind Doronuma was a girl with long green hair which looked like it was dripping down her shoulders. That was Usabara whom Kurumu had recently learned was from Aranami though she was not a full blooded undine.

Amusingly neither was the dark green haired girl seated beside Usabara. That was Numasaki Ayame. She had a human father which resulted in underdeveloped lungs. She had relied on Nagisa to help her get through her first year of junior high until she could reliably breathe underwater. The greenish splotches in her dark tresses reminded Kurumu of a watermelon.

The girl behind Kokoa was Nagisa's other junior high friend, Umiyama Chiharu. The quiet undine had her long, aquamarine tresses pulled back in a ponytail.

The girl on Umiyama's right was Sawaguchi Yuriko. The cheerful girl from Umiman had creamy blond curls and hazel eyes. She had joined the swimming club just like every other mermaid in the school.

Yamane Yumi was the last girl of the second row. The small kappa had curves in all of the right places with her stringy black locks pulled up in pigtails. She was in the broadcasting club and was cousins with two other kappa sisters whom were also in that club. The girl walked out of the door ahead of the two cheerleader girls whom were also from Kokoa's class.

"What do you want?"

Kurumu smiled at Moka's annoyed look.

"How are you getting along with your classmates?"

"Did you seriously come to my class to ask that?"

"I have to check on you since you insist on being a hermit."

"It's not like you don't live with me."

Kurumu nodded at Michiko.

"What is she like in class?"

"Quieter than before. More like Hatoko now."

Kiki huffed, shaking her head.

"She's not that bad. And I approve of the different hair color. Pink stands out too much."

"Doubts any cares bout the color change."

"Yea. I think it's gorgeous."

Moka smiled nervously at Kagami's compliment.

"Thanks, I guess."

Kurumu noted Aori heading for the door. The girl had been in the back row with Zenpyou Manako. The orchid haired girl had her locks styled in a pixie cut. The girl from Moka's class was a member of both the fencing and fashion clubs.

"I asked Ms. Hitori to look after Mizore since you refused to this morning."

"I could hear you."

"You still could go. It's not good for you to limit yourself to classes and your room."

"I don't have much time left with her."

Kurumu sighed. Once Yukari moved Hatsue into this baby, it was most likely that they would not be able to talk to her for years.

"None of us do. Have Yukari join you."

"I don't see her doing that."

"You of all people could talk her into it."

Moka sighed heavily, glancing at the door.

"I suppose I could convince her."

"You should. And you should start eating in the dining hall with friends. Both of you."

"Now that is asking for too much. Yukari hates being in a big crowd."

"But you're fine with it. And you're getting along fine with your classmates as is. No need to worry about not being as good as she was with dealing with your peers."

"I'll never be as nice as her. It feels too fake."

"What ya mean by that?"

Moka glanced at Michiko, offering a dismissive shrug.

"A girl we know whom was good about hiding her feelings with empty smiles."

"It is better to hide your feelings with a smile than a scowl."

Moka huffed at Kiki's comment.

"It's also better than being haughty and pompous all of the time."

"I hope others don't see me that way. That is not my intent."

"Bah. Used to it."

"You do present yourself with that attitude often."

"It can't be that often, Ms. Kagami. I only become standoffish when that brute acts up."

Kurumu smirked, knowing that most of Kiki's gruff behavior was around Hatoko. But it also came out whenever the girl was faced with something that made her uncomfortable.

"I wouldn't worry about it, Kiki. Nobody really cares if you get uppity now and then."

"I think you two girls should be heading back to your class."

Kurumu chuckled at Ms. Nekonome's suggestion. She nodded, retreating towards the door.

"Yea. Guess I should hit the bathroom then."


"Absolutely not."

Uboku Iko from class ten pouted at Kurumu's denial to her request. This girl sitting across the table from Kurumu had her white ash locks styled in a bob which threatened to cover her left eye with a plum colored iris. The hair on the right side of her head had been trimmed very short in a boyish manner.

"But you said that you would."

Kurumu frowned as she toyed with the top of her empty yuzu can.

"The most I've ever said is that I would consider it."

"She's already promised to donate the profits to that school trip you want."

Kurumu sighed, glancing at Juri whom sat on her right. The sprite was also finished with her lunch like everyone else at their table in the dining hall. The angelic blond on Juri's left was Kisurusu Miho whom had joined the archery club with Juri. These two from Okataiyou had gone to the junior high in Kabashita with Iko whom was from Hisomuri.

"There must be better ways to raise money for the trip."

"What sort of things could we do for a fundraiser?"

The speaker sitting to the right of Iko was Touzoku Ran. The tanuki had sapphire eyes and glossy black hair which was plagued with a cowlick. She was from Tatekanai of the Fukui prefecture and had gone to junior high with these other three girls sitting at this table to Iko's left. Touzoku was in class one and had joined the gymnastics club.

"Bake sales are the most common."

"We would have to pay someone to eat your cooking."

Yochimaru Riku scowled at Touzoku's remark. She also had glossy black hair with a cowlick but her eyes were a lovely shade of amethyst. The tanuki was from class eight and was in the manga club with Iko.

"It's not like I can practice."

"I'm sure that Kurumu would let you practice."

Kurumu smirked at Kana whom was seated between her junior high friends. The dryad had baby blue eyes and thick yellow hair which curled up just before it touched her shoulders. She had joined the newspaper club shortly after her rescue from Ms. Ishigami's insanity which had also involved Kisurusu and Yochimaru. She mostly provided raunchy comics which Ginei had to screen for appropriateness.

"The stove in my apartment barely gets used. She's better off asking Moka."

"I'm cool with that if she is."

"I'm an artist. Why would I cook for money when I can draw?"

"Because your model doesn't want to pose nude for you."

The girls giggled at Touzoku's quick remark, causing Iko to pout.

"But I have to make a sequel for the fans. And with Ms. Akiyama refusing to model again, I can only turn to Ms. Kurono."

"M-maybe y-you could ask s-someone else?"

The stuttering girl with emerald eyes was Itazura Fuyuki. Like other tanuki, she had glossy black hair which she had pulled back into a ponytail. She was in class ten and played a clarinet in the band.

"Are you volunteering?"

"N-no! I could n-never be that b-bold!"

"Riku has no problems being bold."

Yochimaru huffed at Touzoku.

"I have a boyfriend now. What would happen if he found out?"

"If he found out, it means that he reads dirty comics."

Kurumu chuckled at Kana's quick response. Yochimaru had started dating Tebayai Itsuki whom was a second year in the band. The tanuki was from Aserutani and had an older sister in the band.

"Well I also have a boyfriend. I can't have you circulating porn with my likeness."

"It's a little late for that."

Kurumu wagged her finger at Mizore whom was seated on her left. The snow girl was slowly finishing off a half liter of vanilla which served as her lunch.

"She never had mine or Akiyama's permission to release that first comic."

"Ms. Kurono!"

Four familiar girls were approaching their table. They were second years from Kurumu's home ec class. The tallest girl with the wavy scarlet tresses which almost reached the floor was Zoushiki Koufuku. She was the most sociable of this bunch and was the only one whom had not been in Kurumu's gym hour.

The next tallest of these girls with the bright orange afro was Kagaku. She was usually gruff when she talked. The girl with her cherry locks up in braided pigtails was Honourou. She was almost as tall as Kagaku. The only girl in this group whom was shorter than Moka was the last girl with her russet hair hanging over her eyes. That quiet girl was Hageshii.

Kurumu spared a glance about the dining hall as these girls neared. It had to be after two if the second years were out of class. Most of the rectangular tables with fixed bench seating which could comfortably seat five to a side had been vacated. She should probably leave soon, not wanting to be here when the newspaper club had their meeting at three.

The seating area was enclosed within the side of the Kurai dining hall which was constructed with obsidian glass panes held in a silver lattice. These panes shot up the sides before curving towards a center overhead. Despite the darkness of the glass, enough natural light filtered through to not require extra lighting during the day.

"Did Ms. Yotsumure speak to you today?"

Kurumu frowned at Zoushiki's inquiry.

"Ms. Yotsumure doesn't talk much to anyone."

"Not a surprise."

Zoushiki threw a quieting look at Kagaku before turning a smile upon Kurumu.

"It can't be helped. As the new president for the sewing club, I would like to extend to you an invitation."

Kurumu grinned, recalling that these four were all in the sewing club. All four came from Nenshouchi, a small village in the Fukushima prefecture which was on the border of the Niigata prefecture.

"Congratulations on your new role. But I can't say that sewing interests me that much."

"Don't be so hasty to decline. We do lots of crafts."

"Yea. It's not like everyone in the club has a sewing machine like I do."

"You don't have to brag about that."

Honourou frowned at Kagaku.

"I was just stating a fact. Nobody brags about owning a sewing machine."

"You just did."

"Be nice, Suga."

"I am being nice."

Zoushiki smirked at the afro girl, shaking her head.

"You are more than welcome to visit us. We will be having our club meetings in my room every Tuesday and Thursday while the school is still under repair."

"We live together in 223 and will start at three."

Kurumu smiled softly at Honourou.

"I suppose I could check it out if none of the other clubs appeal to me."

"Do you even have any friends in the sewing club?"

Zoushiki laughed pleasantly at Juri's protest.

"Even if she doesn't, it would be an opportunity to make more."

"She visits Bunii at her workplace."

"That's right, Juri. That local girl whose uncle owns the maid café is in the sewing club."

"Oh yea. The nicer Wanibuchi. She is a sweetheart."

Honourou giggled as Hageshii clung to Kagaku's side.

"Kissy is infatuated with Bunii. She's honestly the reason why we didn't schedule meetings on Fridays or the weekends."

"Which is dumb. We don't need that girl to have meetings."

"Oh hush. The two of you live across the hall. We don't need meetings for the four of us to get together so it only made sense to pick a schedule that worked for the first years."

"Don't you have third years?"

"We only had one and she's wanting to focus on her studies."

"Preparing for the college exam?"

Honourou and Zoushiki giggled while Kagaku snorted.

"I doubt that Ms. Hokusuna has any college plans."

"Don't be so mean about it. She would like to make the top hundred at least once."

"Not with her grades. She's lucky to not be on the board of shame."

Honourou favored Kagaku a stern look.

"You're not one to talk about grades."

"I'm not smart and neither is Ms. Hokusuna. Hell, Kissy is on the board of shame every time."

"In any case, I know that you need to join a club before the end of this term. I hope that you stop by."

"I'll try to swing by if I can."

"Yea. Kurumu has a very busy schedule. After she does some modeling for the manga club, she has a tryout for track and my archery club."

"I am not trying out for archery."

"So the modeling is fine?"

Kurumu pouted at Mizore.

"Whose side are you on?"

"It must be tiresome to be so popular. I bet dozens of clubs have asked you to join."

Kurumu smiled at Zoushiki.

"Mostly friends making halfhearted suggestions. The only club that has a member at this table that I haven't been asked to join is the band."

"I w-wouldn't th-think y-you'd be interested."

"She has a flute."

"You have a flute?"

Kurumu laughed at Juri's response to Mizore.

"Yes. A gift from my father that my grandmother was holding onto."

"I didn't think you had any family."

Kurumu smiled softly, supposing she had not told most of her friends the entire truth about her father's origins. They knew that he had passed away but only a few knew that he had been from Mizore's village.

"Yea. My grandmother lives in Yukimura. I didn't think about my father's family."

"Sounds like there's more to your trip than Ms. Shirayuki's failed shotgun wedding to Mr. Aono."

Kurumu laughed, knowing that Mizore's story had been the topic of discussion last week.

"We should go."

Zoushiki nodded at Honourou's suggestion.

"Yes. It was a pleasure talking with you, Ms. Kurono."

"I'm curious but whom will you be supporting in the upcoming election."

"Sawayaka."

Zoushiki and Honourou giggled at Kagaku's quick response. Both girls nodded.

"Ms. Sawayaka makes the most sense to us."

"I think she has a good point about this town needing one of their own in that position. I know that isn't the best reason to vote for someone, but it's not like anyone expects too much from the student council president. She certainly won't do any worse than the other candidates."

"Is your whole club voting that way?"

Zoushiki shrugged with a glance at Honourou whom also shrugged.

"I'm fairly sure that Bunii will vote for Ms. Sawayaka. I can't speak for the other first years."

"Ms. Usabara went to school in Umiman so she might feel more comfortable with Mr. Machida."

"What about Ginei?"

The two girls giggled while Kagaku huffed indignantly.

"What girl in her right mind would vote for that dog?"

"I still can't believe that he brought up thongs in his campaign speech."

"I can. The guy is a moron."

"Why is that even important?"

Honourou grinned at Hageshii's query.

"I bet that you don't even own a thong."

"As if you do."

Honourou huffed at Kagaku, gesturing at her hair.

"If that mess on your head is anything like below, you'd have no business owning one."

"Does anyone here own a thong?"

Kurumu raised her hand in response to Juri's question. She blushed upon realizing she was the only one admitting to this. Lowering her hand, she swatted Mizore's shoulder as the girls at the table giggled.

"You own a thong."

"Was I supposed to admit to that?"

"Yes. I don't want to be the only girl admitting that I own one."

Zoushiki offered a small wave with a blush.

"I have a couple pairs that I picked up last year."

"Shut up. Are you serious?"

"It's not like I wear them. They're very uncomfortable."

"I heard that you have to wear them regularly to get used to them."

Kurumu smirked at Kana.

"You opted out on getting a thong when the other girls bought them on Nerume's birthday."

"Because I have plenty of underwear."

"I've never had a reason to own a thong."

Yochimaru nodded at Touzoku's remark.

"Likewise. Though I'm thinking of getting some for Itsuki."

"D-do g-guys wear th-thongs?"

"That's not what I meant, dork."

Touzoku giggled, nodding.

"Though that is a funny thought. Isn't that called a speedo?"

"Now that's an idea for my next comic."

"Maybe you could have Tebayai model his thong for you."

"I'm not buying my boyfriend a thong!"

"Your boyfriend might be cool with it if you're also wearing one. Maybe the two of you could model for her sequel?"

Yochimaru's eyes widened in alarm at Kana's suggestion.

"No way! I'm not losing my virginity for a dirty comic!"

"It's not that big of a deal how you lose it."

"Coming from the only non virgin at the table."

Kurumu pouted at Juri. She grabbed Mizore by the shoulder, pulling the snow girl to her side.

"Mizore isn't a virgin either. She's carrying our baby."

"Yea, yea. Nobody here believes that Ms. Shirayuki had a fling with Mr. Aono."

"Maybe not, but Kurumu's biology works differently. She might have done the honors."

Kurumu smirked at Kana, wondering if the grinning blond had somehow found out the truth.

"I blame the mirror."

While her friends found that funny, the second years had a different reaction. Hageshii flinched, Kagaku scowled and Honourou grimaced. Zoushiki managed a smile, placing her hand on Honourou's shoulder.

"Things did get crazy. But at least none of us were hurt."

"Says the one that didn't get raped."

"Neither were you, Suga. You hid and watched while the three of us-"

Zoushiki stepped in closer to Honourou, tugging the girl to her side.

"It's not her fault. She couldn't have helped with the way things were."

Honourou sighed, leaning against her friend.

"It just had to happen during our shift. We haven't seen Ms. Kusachi since it happened. Her roommate says that she spends most of her days crying or staring emptily at the wall."

Kurumu relinquished her hold on Mizore, wringing her hands in guilt.

"I'm so sorry for bringing that up so lightly."

"It's not your fault, Ms. Kurono. Some girls are more delicate."

"Yea. Naomi is fine. We just don't talk about what happened to her."

Kurumu smiled at Juri's encouragement. Yubikiri Naomi was a girl from Okataiyou in Moka's class. The brunette had been raped by the third year drummer of the music club whom was also from Okataiyou. The girl was attending classes and acting like nothing had happened.

"I'm still sorry. The mirror made me have sex with someone I do have feelings for. I know it's much worse to have sex with someone you don't even know."

"How would you know that?"

The harshness in Honourou's tone bothered Kurumu. She absently rubbed her aching breast, unsure if she should explain herself. She had been Yukari. She had been Sakamori. She had been Mizore. She had been raped even if it had not truly been her. And she could not forget about Nagare.

"Do you really want the answer?"

"I think we don't need to talk about this. I'm sorry that this came up, Ms. Kurono. But I still hope that you visit us this week. Good luck with your modeling."

Kurumu pouted as Zoushiki steered Honourou away. Kagaku snickered, tugging Hageshii along.

"I'm not modeling for a porn comic!"

The girls at the table giggled at her expense. Juri patted Kurumu's back.

"As the most experienced girl here, you'd probably do the comic more justice than Ms. Yochimaru."

"Just because I've had a dick in me doesn't make me any more qualified. Sex is not difficult. You don't even need to be willing for it to happen."

"But we all agreed that drawing a rape comic would be bad."

"I'm not posing for your raunchy comic. End of discussion."

"But what else are you going to do? Your tryout is at four thirty which is like two hours from now. How much time do you think you need?"

"However much she'll give me. An hour would be nice."

Kurumu grimaced, placing her hands on the table and pushing up onto her feet.

"I don't mind if you sketch me but I'm not doing naughty poses for you."

"Is that a yes?"

Kurumu snorted, stepping free of the table as Iko got to her feet.

"That's more of a maybe. I'm heading home and you can tag along. I have to change for this tryout so I guess you can have a nude if you absolutely need one. But I'm not posing."

"I suppose that will have to work."

"Is this an open invitation for the rest of us?"

Kurumu shrugged at Juri before placing a hand on Mizore's shoulder. The snow girl was more interested in finishing her ice cream than leaving.

"I don't know if Moka will want the extra company but Yukari wanted to return Kana's Kare Kano series today at the club meeting. I'm sure she wouldn't mind Kana coming to get them."

"She's done with it already?"

"Yea. She doesn't sound interested in reading that Bleach series that you loaned to Kokoa."

"I suppose I should collect the volumes Ms. Shuzen is finished with then. I'll have to find something else for Yukari to read. Maybe bring a title or two from home."

"You have enough manga here already."

Kana frowned at Yochimaru's remark.

"Half of my collection is at home."

"Which should stay at your home. School ends in March and we won't be returning to our old rooms in Baratoge. I'm pretty sure that we have to take all of our belongings home."

Kana frowned at Juri.

"Won't they assign us our new rooms before the break?"

"Even if they do, the second years are in those right now. Unless the third years are all moving out of the suites early, I don't see us moving our stuff into the second year dorms before the break."

"Maybe there's a place offering temporary storage in Mononoke."

"Maybe. I honestly don't have enough things in my room to bother looking for one."

Yochimaru chuckled, waving a hand dismissively.

"Well I'm not sticking around for Kurono's modeling session. I'm heading home."

"Yea. Me too. It was fun chatting with you, Kurono."

"S-see y-you later."

Kurumu smiled, waving at the tanuki trio as they wandered off. She sucked in a deep breath before patting Mizore on the back.

"Come on. You can eat the rest of that on the way home."

Mizore held up the half liter to display its contents.

"Almost done. Give me a moment."

Kurumu sighed, favoring Juri an apologetic smile. Her eyes glanced at Kisurusu whom had a vacant stare.

"What are you thinking about, Kisurusu?"

The girl perked up with a bright smile at the sound of her name.

"Juri's attempts to recruit you has me thinking about some of the girls from our junior high whom will graduate this year."

"Oh? Any girls you have in mind?"

"Tomo will undoubtedly pick the choir. There's no point trying for her. But Yuki might join us."

"What about Ina?"

Kisurusu frowned at Iko's inquiry.

"The girl whom plays with dead animals?"

"And talks to spirits. She's a better fit for the paranormal club."

"Her brother is in the paranormal club. There's no way she's joining a club he is in."

"Fair point. But she's more likely to join your club than ours."

"Whom is this girl's brother?"

Juri grinned at Kurumu.

"Takurami Fukai in class three."

Kurumu nodded, recalling that unpleasant guy from Tsukune's class.

"He's not very active in the paranormal club."

"Maybe not. I bet we can get Ms. Tanisaki to join. She was very interested in the club."

Kisurusu giggled, nodding at Juri's comment.

"She was very interested in Ms. Fujino."

"Same thing. And if she joins, Ms. Koda will join too. Those two are always together."

"Ms. Kurono!"

Two young men walked purposefully towards them. The taller and stouter, dark haired guy was familiar. The other guy was probably no taller than Moka and had a weasel like face.

"Friends of yours?"

Kurumu was trying to recall where she had seen the bigger guy before. Her mind was still drawing a blank when the pair finally arrived.

"I understand that you are in need of a club."

"I'll pass."

The big guy staggered with a frown at her blithe dismissal.

"I haven't even told you my name or club."

"I doubt that would change my mind."

He laughed nervously with his dark eyes glancing aside. He rubbed the back of his neck.

"Well… my name is Shirabe Maki and my associate is Inbou Mine. As of last weekend, I am the new president of the acupuncture club."

Kurumu snapped her fingers, nodding with recognition.

"That's where I've seen you. You were getting on the bus to Machinise with my friends Kiki and Suzume."

"Yes. I live in Machinise and went to school with those two fine ladies. I understand that you are also friends with the Akiyama siblings whom are members of my club."

"I barely know Ume's older brother. But I do speak with Ume at least once a week since she has lunch with Milady."

Kana smirked, nodding.

"And Ms. Uboku knows her very well."

"Yea. I suppose you could say that."

They shared a giggle, not bothering to enlighten the confused boys. After a pause, Shirabe shrugged.

"Considering our third years won't be involved in our club for much longer, I don't think that an issue. I would like to invite you to our meeting today at three."

Kurumu smiled softly with the cultural festival disaster still fresh in her mind.

"It's good to hear that you're club is having meetings again. Akiyama said that you weren't having any meetings after the Gokuya family died."

Shirabe managed a smile, glancing down.

"Yes. Mr. Gokuya was my roommate. It was difficult to be in my room with his things still there for that first week. Now that it's all gone, it just feels empty."

"My condolences."

Kurumu echoed Juri's sentiment and the other girls quickly followed suit.

Except Mizore whom was determined to finish her ice cream.

"Thank you. I'm glad that I was picked to be the next club president. It gives me something to do."

"We need to rebuild our prestigious club."

Juri smirked at Inbou.

"I think you mean notorious."

"What do you mean by that?"

"Just rumors that half the guys in your club use acupuncture as an excuse to touch girls."

Shirabe chuckled nervously, waving a dismissive hand.

"We've always tried to have as many girls in our club as guys but they often shy away from the practice. I need a fine lady such as Ms. Kurono in our club to keep those rumors to a minimum."

"I would love to help but I don't know a thing about acupuncture."

"I'm sure that Ms. Yumeito would gladly help you. It was actually her idea to have me approach you, since the younger Akiyama was too nervous to make this request."

Ms. Yumeito was the valedictorian from mommy's class. The second year science teacher had been in several pictures of the second photo album which included the first term of mommy's third year.

"Where do you have your meetings?"

"Are you seriously thinking of joining his club?"

"It's about as realistic as you thinking I can shoot a bow."

"We will be meeting here in the dining hall every day this week."

Kurumu grimaced at his announcement.

"You said this was at three?"

"That is correct."

"I'd rather not be in the dining hall at three. The newspaper club will be here."

"Is there a time more preferable to you?"

"I don't want you to change your meetings for my sake."

"Nonsense. I'm sure that Ms. Kubo and Ms. Akiyama won't mind if I have the meeting earlier."

Kurumu grinned, still curious about this Kubo girl. Kana only had good things to say about her.

"If you change the time, have Ms. Akiyama tell me. I promise to attend at least one meeting."

"Excellent. I'll see if the girls are fine with a new time and look forward to seeing you."

"Likewise. Later this week. I promise."

Shirabe grinned broadly, nodding before turning on his heel. He stalked off with Inbou at his side with the same amount of purpose with which they had arrived.

"Why are you humoring that request?"

"It's an excuse to meet Ms. Kubo."

Kana giggled, shaking her head.

"I'm pretty sure you could just visit her in her room. She lives up on the seventh floor."

Kurumu was aware of that but she felt uncomfortable with the idea of dropping by a girl's room without any warning. A club meeting was a convenient excuse.

"Are you done with that ice cream yet?"

"Hey, Kurumu!"

The girls about her giggled. Miho shook her head with flush cheeks.

"Must be nice to be so popular."

"It's just Ginei."

Ginei had his dark locks pushed back with a lush green bandana today. His school shirt was unbuttoned to allow the silver head of a wolf dangle upon his chest. With a sigh, Kurumu crossed her arms below her breasts and cocked her head.

"What do you want?"

Ginei trotted over to their table. His eyes swept over the gathering of girls. One was the smoky gray iris he had been born with while his right eye with the green iris was a fake. He favored them a feral grin.

"That depends on what is on your menu."

Kurumu rolled her eyes.

"Isn't it too early for your club meeting?"

"Yes. And I would like to ask you to do a closing article for us."

"No chance."

Ginei laughed, placing his hands on her shoulders and cocking his head.

"It's a small article for something that I know you'll be interested in."

"Oh really? What's this about?"

"Meet me in front of the theater at three tomorrow."

"Don't we have club tomorrow?"

"I'm canceling it. And Tsukune won't be at this so you don't have to worry about him."

Kurumu eyed him suspiciously.

"What is this about?"

"It's a small favor to help secure some votes for me."

"Why should I care about that?"

"Because you're stealing the spotlight. When I try to talk to students about the upcoming student council election, half of them are more interested in whether or not I know which club you'll be joining."

"I'm sure that the others have the same issue."

"The others aren't your former club president. You're sabotaging my campaign."

"I think talking about thongs did more damage than I could ever hope to."

Juri snickered at her remark and the other girls giggled. Ginei withdrew his hands from her shoulders, favoring her a piteous frown.

"But I had it all worked out. A committee comprised of women to enforce the new dress code was the perfect way to implement it."

"Having your two friends flip skirts doesn't make it right."

"Miya can check without flipping anything and Imi does it so fast that you wouldn't know that she did it."

"And how would you deal with girls that broke your new dress code?"

"Spankings sounds appropriate."

Kurumu smirked, unsure how she could even respond to that. She shook her head.

"Fine. I'll do this final favor for you."

"Thanks, Kurumu. You won't regret this."

"Why exactly does it have to be Kurumu to do this article for you?"

Ginei grinned at Juri.

"Because my client specifically asked for her. See you tomorrow."


"I want to thank both of you for trying out today. I know that you both tried your best."

Kurumu touched her right side as she panted heavily. Her hot pink sports bra was stained with her sweat from the last hour of torture. Her arctic blue tresses were matted to the sides of her head and the back of her neck. And her crotch felt no better, making her think that she should have worn these red spandex gym shorts without her lavender boyshorts.

She stood among the other first years on the track team, facing the bleachers that overlooked the track which wrapped about the soccer field. Behind her on the other side of a waist high, black, chain link fence was the concession stand which was near the baseball fields. The guys on the baseball team were still having their practice.

"You survived."

Kurumu lacked the breath to laugh at Suzume's cheerful comment. Like most of the girls on the team, the tengu had on a loose, green tank top with the crimson lettering of the school down the center. Many girls wore the matching loose track shorts with red lines down the sides though a few preferred the red spandex gym shorts issued by the school.

Hands touched her shoulder and back. Kazehana grinned, tugging gently.

"Straighten up. It helps."

Kurumu nodded, absently reaching up to massage her left breast with the side of her fist. Despite this being a new sports bra, her breasts ached from the constant bouncing. She had drawn the attention of several boys from the baseball team which had felt nice but could not dispel the pain of physical labor.

"And if Ms. Kiba so desires, I will gladly accept her club application today."

Nozomi clapped her hands which a few girls timidly joined in. Kiba stood with her lunch friends, looking thoroughly exhausted. Her face was flush and her hands were on her hips. She had on a black sports bra with a pair of black cotton shorts and had pulled her hair back in a high ponytail.

"What about Kurumu?"

Coach Kibashiro smiled politely at Asuka's inquiry. The raiji had flush cheeks and stood between Kakeru and Taijin. She had encouraged Kurumu the most during each attempt at an event.

"I think that Ms. Kurono should join a different club."

"I've never seen anyone jump under the bar."

"Maybe she thought it was a limbo event."

"I was tired!"

Suzume placed a hand on Kurumu's shoulder as several girls tried to suppress their giggles.

"Coach. Couldn't Kurumu join as a manager?"

"I've never had an issue with getting one of you girls to hold a stopwatch and record times or results for the other girls in their events."

"Yea, but you could have Kurumu dedicated to doing just that."

"It wouldn't feel right. If there was some event that she could compete in, I would take her. But she has no stamina, no speed, no arm strength and can't jump."

Kurumu grimaced at the list of her shortcomings.

"I tried my best."

Coach Kibashiro smiled softly at her.

"I know that you did, Ms. Kurono. I've never seen you work so hard in gym class before. But it wouldn't be fair to you if I were to take you on as a gopher."

"She needs to get in shape for her boyfriend."

Several girls giggled at Izumi's remark. Izumi Kasui was that girl with the shoulder length, bubblegum pink curls. She was an undine from Umishiro and was in class five. She was standing with Kirizumi Kiyomi and Aori whom were the two she normally ate lunch with. Kirizumi was a salamander from Moegara and had short, bluish locks styled in a boyish manner. She was also from class five.

"If she wants to stop by and practice with us, she is more than welcome to."

"But Kurumu needs to be in a club."

"Let it go, Ms. Shindou. I'm sure that Ms. Kurono has other clubs more suited for her."

Kurumu smiled at Nomura, nodding.

"Yea. Doubt I could do this more than once a week."

"Settle down, ladies. I need to share the results of the blind vote we took at the start of practice to determine the next team captain."

Kurumu glanced at the bleachers, noting that Mizore was with Moka, Yukari and Nerume. The vampire and witch were seated up in the fourth row while the other two were down in the second. She hoped that the drama club meeting had been more rewarding than this.

"Ms. Samurakami Atae shall be your next captain."

Many of the older girls clapped at the announcement. The charcoal haired girl was immediately hugged by her older sister whom she lived with in the suites. The two almost could pass as twins, though Saeko was thicker and curvier.

Kurumu's eyes swept over the third years with a subtle melancholy feeling. Those ten girls were the first third years she had interviewed for the newspaper club. They all lived in the suites near the ones which Kurumu and her friends lived in.

The only two in singles were the buxom Hirota and the majestic Kishi. Hirota was a gyokuto from Aranoiji and had massive breasts which surpassed Kurumu's. The tall Kishi had a long, sandy blond ponytail and was a kirin from Watasora.

The thick Kettou lived in a double with Kouyama from the volleyball team. She was a big brunette with a boyish cut and came from Atsuen.

The Ohira cousins were okami from the Nara prefecture. The taller one with the coarse, black ponytail was Momoko. The one with the short, ashen gray locks and pink eyes was Natsue. Natsue had a hearing impairment which had inspired all of these older girls to learn sign language.

Uchiyama Hokori was the black haired tengu whom looked very much like her younger brother in Moka's class. The girl from Hongu had befriended Yamanaka Otoha during their first year in track. Yamanaka was the brunette with the short, feathered locks and came from Koutoukumo.

And the last pair lived in the suite beneath Yukari. The golden haired beauty was Shiruba Yumie from Okataiyou while the girl with her dark locks styled in a girlish bowl cut was Horie Fumiyo from Hisomuri. Horie was the current valedictorian and her roommate was a top twenty student. The pair had been representatives of their respective classrooms for all three years.

These girls would graduate in April. She would most likely never see them again.

"I won't hold you any longer. Hit the showers and go home."

The girls started to depart immediately. Kurumu glanced over the second years, knowing a little about all of them despite having left their interviews to Tora and Ginei. That tiny girl with the silvery white hair and the blatant horn sticking out of her head was Miyake Yuniko from Ginei's former homeroom. She was a kirin from Watasora.

That tall girl by Yuniko with the jet black ponytail was Hayagawa Ai. She was also a kirin from Watasora. So was Ikegami with the long, chestnut tresses. She was dating Hashibata from the basketball team.

The girl with the fluffy blood red locks was Kokawa from Tochimoeru. And that other short girl with the short, whitish gray hair was Hiyoshi Itsuko. The nekomusume was from Yonezawa of the Yamagata prefecture and lived with Hidarimeki Tsuri, her cousin on the softball team.

Then there were the five second year girls whom had lunch with Nomura and Kazehana. Miyauchi was the ashen haired girl while the one with the long black hair was Tsuru. Those two were from Hateshinai. The other three were from Koutoukumo. Yamasaki was the dirty blond whom had been in Kurumu's home ec class. Imano had caramel tresses while Noa Nao was the one with the powder blue pigtails.

Hashimoto was the big girl whom always hung around with Yamasaki and Samurakami in home ec. She was a giant from Chouten. The other big girl from Chouten was Ueno. The huge girl with the dark locks that had a purplish hue was Matsushita. She was from the Yuzawa region.

Ota Hatsuko was the pretty girl with the shoulder length, smoky black tresses rolled into curls. She was an inugami from Ashikantai. And that girl with the glossy black, short hair with the telltale cowlick was Tashiro Jirito. She had been in Ginei's homeroom two years in a row. She was a tanuki from Aranoiji. And the last girl was Tachioujou Maya. She had her sienna tresses pulled into a ponytail. She had gone to school in Atsuen and was dating Sakakihara from the judo team.

"Are you okay?"

Kurumu managed a smile, nodding at Suzume's concerned look.

"Yea. Just worn out."

"It's too bad that Coach won't take you."

"No kidding. It's not like I was asking for her to be part of a relay."

Suzume smirked at Asuka as the blond strolled over.

"You're probably more upset than Kurumu is about this."

"I'm too tired to be upset."

"No regrets coming today. Worth the laughs."

Kazehana snickered at Hatoko.

"You should be ashamed of yourself. Being entertained at her expense."

"Ya laugh plenty too."

Nomura huffed, fluffing her hair out.

"Possibly more than anyone else here."

Nozomi favored them a snaggletooth grin as she wandered over with the other three.

"We have some big shoes to fill when those third years graduate. The Ohira cousins were our long distance runners and Kishi was our fastest with the hurdles."

"I'll give it a shot."

Nozomi chuckled at Asuka's declaration.

"Stick to sprints, little spark."

Asuka grimaced at the nickname the boys had given her before Sports Day. The rest of the track team had quickly adopted it.

"I could do it."

"I think Kiba should try long distance."

"No way. I don't want to be running laps."

"This girl doesn't have the endurance."

"I'm still faster than you."

Nikki scoffed at Kiba's declaration.

"As if. I beat you in every event you tried out for."

"I was taking it easy on you."

"You wish. Stop embarrassing yourself and admit that I'm better."

Kiba growled, shoving Nikki back.

"I could beat you if I wanted to."

Nozomi stepped between the pair, shaking her head.

"Don't start this. You lost, Kiba. I suggested endurance because most of us aren't that good with it."

"Ms. Ohira took second at nationals. She won't be an easy act to follow."

"Not motivating me at all there."

"Giving up already?"

Kiba scowled at Nikki.

"Fine. I'll run long distance if you do."

"I'm already in the 800 relay with Akari. I don't need to race against you to feed your ego."

"But you should give it a shot, Nikki. They have me doing the 1600 and I'm not good enough to place."

"But I'm already in the hundred meter dash."

"Which you aren't ever going to win. You should be working on your endurance like I am. I plan to join your relay team since the Ohira cousins are graduating."

"And we will need a fourth. Would you join us?"

Kiba grumbled at Akari's offer. She shook her head and stalked off.

"I'm going to shower."

Nikki snickered, following after her friend. Most of the track girls had already taken off with only these few first years lingering about Kurumu.

"Yea. We probably should. See you later, Kurumu."

Kurumu nodded at Nozomi as she started off with Akari. Nomura huffed, walking off. Taijin nudged Asuka on the back.

"Let's go."

"Fine. But I still think that Kurumu should keep coming to practice."

Kurumu chuckled softly as Asuka allowed herself to be steered away. Kazehana trotted to catch up with Nomura. Suzume patted Kurumu's shoulder.

"Did you want to shower with us?"

"I want to go to bed."

"Well. Good night then."

Kurumu nodded as Suzume and Hatoko sauntered off. She turned a weak smile upon the quiet Kakeru whom showed no interest to leave.

"Sticking around?"

"For Nerume. And Airashi if you don't mind."

"Sure. I'll ask my friends if they're cool with that."

Kurumu started towards the bleachers with Kakeru tailing behind her. She could feel the judgment in Moka's crimson eyes as she neared. The vampire had her arms crossed and was staring impassively from her perch. Yukari sat to the left of the stoic vampire, reading from a book.

"I should have tried out for track."

Kurumu grinned at Nerume as the girl hopped up from her seat to intercept them.

"Aren't you busy with two clubs?"

"Mr. Morioka hasn't asked me to do anything and my astronomy club only meets once a week."

Kurumu smirked at a random thought.

"Well maybe you could do this article that Ginei desperately wanted me to do."

"What is the article about?"

"No clue but he wants me to meet him at the theater tomorrow at three. If you're not busy, then you should tag along."

"That was remarkably pathetic."

Kurumu pouted as Moka took heavy steps down the bleachers.

"I was tired by the time you guys came out to watch."

Moka huffed as she took the last step. Yukari had closed her book and was following in Moka's wake.

"If trouble came for us, I couldn't even rely on your ability to run away."

Kurumu sulked, rubbing the back of her sweaty neck.

"I could fly away."

"You need to stay out of my problems. You and Shirayuki."

"That's not very nice."

Moka scowled at Nerume.

"It's not meant to be. I have a serious issue that has already claimed the lives of several people. I don't want these two getting killed because they can't keep up."

Nerume wrung her hands as Mizore drifted over to join them.

"Does that mean that she shouldn't do the article for Mr. Morioka?"

Moka stared at the small kirin for a long moment. She suddenly laughed, shaking her head.

"I have no idea what that dog is up to, but it's probably not life threatening. If Kurumu wants to humor his request, that's up to her. I want no part of it."

"I'm surprised that you agreed to do it when he wouldn't give you any details."

Kurumu smiled at Yukari, shrugging weakly.

"Well I do feel a little guilty about messing up his campaign with my club searching."

"For someone that can charm people into submission, you seem to let others talk you into some of the dumbest things. I can't believe you let that girl draw naked portraits of you."

Kurumu flinched at Yukari's statement. What had started out as some harmless posturing had turned into a full blown strip show. It had been fun at the time but she was already feeling the regret.

"I guess I got a little carried away."

"What do you plan to do when she makes that sequel?"

Kurumu pouted, wagging a finger at Moka.

"It wouldn't have happened if you had been home at the start."

"It's not my job to keep you behaved."

"Our poor daughter will be shamed by this."

Kurumu whirled on Mizore with disbelief.

"You were watching me the whole time. If you had a problem with it, you could have said something."

"I was drowning out your adultery with music."

"Don't be surprised if Mr. Amesuki dumps you over this."

Kurumu sighed, knowing that Yukari was right. This was somewhat of a scandal even if it was not on the same level as having sex with someone.

"If that's what he wants to do, I won't fuss over it. It's not like I'm a perfect girl."

Nerume stepped in to hug Kurumu's side.

"It's okay. I won't abandon you."

Kurumu chuckled, turning to fully embrace the kirin.

"Yea. Then you'll help me with this silly thing for Ginei."

Nerume leaned back to arm's length, grinning.

"Sure. Should we invite Satsuki?"

"Why would we do that?"

"She's in the PSC."

"True. Maybe I should also ask Tora to tag along."

"Whatever. I'm getting hungry. We should head home."

Kurumu grinned at Moka, letting go of Nerume to gesture at the ballfield.

"Kakeru was wanting to wait for her boyfriend."

"Um. If that isn't any trouble."

Moka groaned at Kakeru's nervous remark.

"I suppose it isn't."

Kurumu chuckled as they all started across the field. It looked like the guys were packing up their gear which meant they would not have to wait long. Kurumu took in a deep breath while walking with one arm draped over Nerume's shoulder.

"So how was your drama club meeting?"

"Fine."

"Don't one word answer me. I deserve more than that."

Mizore smiled softly, drifting in closer to her side.

"They want to put on a play when the school reopens."

"That sounds cool. Which play do they want to do?"

"Sleeping Beauty."

"And they asked her to be the leading lady."

Kurumu smirked at Mizore, wondering if this would work.

"Will you be able to play the part?"

"I tried to refuse but they insisted that I do it."

"Because they only have two girls in the club."

"Why didn't Toboshi do it?"

Yukari threw Kurumu an incredulous look.

"Ms. Toboshi isn't much taller than my Moka's sister and has even less of a figure. It would be like asking me to play the part."

"Are you admitting that you're a child?"

"I am only eleven. I might be a little underdeveloped for my age but physically I am still a child. But Ms. Toboshi is seventeen. I can only feel sorry for her."

Kurumu smiled as they neared the fence gate.

"So whom gets to be the prince to wake you up with a kiss?"

"I named two candidates whom I would be willing to kiss if they still want me to do the role later on. The first is my dear Aoi whom I hope will marry me soon."

Kurumu smirked over how quickly Mizore had turned her feelings around on Umizake. Not that long ago, Mizore would have refused to entertain the thought of marrying that guy.

"Of course he will. And I'm sure that he will agree to do the part."

"Good. Because I don't know if I should resort to the other option."

Kurumu nodded as they slipped through the fence gate on the heels of Moka and Kakeru.

"Yea. It probably wasn't a good idea to even suggest him as an option."

"Oh, I don't mean Mr. Aono."

Kurumu frowned at Mizore's quick refusal.

"Then whom was your second option?"

"You."

Kurumu laughed as Nerume giggled at her side.

"I doubt that your club wants a prince with bigger boobs than their princess."

"Don't be so dismissive, Kurumu. You've posed as Ms. Hajihachi and make illusions of your mother. I think you could easily pass as a guy if you wanted to."

Kurumu smirked at Yukari.

"Why would I want to?"

"Don't you want to kiss me?"

The softness of the request had Kurumu thinking that she just might.