My Fresh Start

by Ravenhale1

This is the ninth installment of the AU recreation of Rosario Vampire told through Kurumu's POV. This story covers the time after the snow village trip up to second term exams (November 25th - December 12th, 2005). Not strictly canon.

7. Secret Admirer

"It's not like that!"

Kurumu giggled at Kokoa's flush reaction to Yukari's comment as they strolled through the clearing about the Kurai dining hall. Kurumu's schoolbag rested against her hip with the strap nestled in the valley of her bosom. Having exhausted her stock of sweaters, she was wearing the green school jacket today. She had left her jacket open unlike Moka and Yukari.

"Jokes aside, you shouldn't take Akegawa's blood in front of the other girls of your club."

"It's not like you valued privacy when you made your blood draws from Aono."

"I was never the one in control when that happened."

"Good morning, Mrs. Sunao."

Yukari's greeting shifted attention to the diminutive teacher scurrying towards them. The young woman had her ashen gray hair styled in the usual buns and was wearing a burgundy blazer over a peach blouse. Textured gray slacks completed her ensemble.

"Morning, girls. I trust that you are all prepared for your lessons today."

Kurumu chuckled as they neared the start of the trail which cut through the forest to Baratoge.

"These three are."

"I'm prepared."

Kurumu stuck her tongue out at Mizore whom had been skulking nearby without engaging in any of the morning conversation thus far.

"Will you be starting your lesson right away?"

Mrs. Sunao caught up to them as they exited the clearing. Despite her protests of needing to hurry, she fell into a comfortable pace alongside Yukari and Moka.

"I have to. I literally have the worst class schedule among the first year teachers. All the math teachers stay in Baratoge for second period while all of the English teachers don't have a second period class. They have a whole hour to walk between the two dorms."

"Ms. Nekonome has to run here from Chikara for her second period."

"True but she gets to stay in Baratoge for the rest of her classes."

Kurumu smiled, thinking about how the male history and Japanese teachers had found female staff to cover their classes in Baratoge.

"But Ms. Nekonome ended up with five classes when she agreed to take on Mr. Gyousan's classes here. At least you have a break."

"I guess that's true but I still have to run between dorms after my fourth period for my last class."

"Couldn't you swap your classes in Chikara with one of the other Japanese instructors?"

"Unfortunately not. Both of them have classes second period and I can't cover for their first period classes in Baratoge. I thought about offering to handle Mr. Hirojima's fourth period class, but Ms. Hitori had already agreed to cover his classes. It would be horribly inconvenient to ask Ms. Hitori to come all the way to the dorms just to cover a first period class."

Kurumu snickered, shaking her head.

"I doubt that Ms. Hitori would protest an offer to work less."

"I wouldn't mind having you as my Japanese instructor again."

"That's kind of you, Ms. Akashiya. I noticed that you changed your hair color."

Moka laughed nervously, fussing with her tresses for a moment.

"Trying something different."

"Yes. Well don't mind my complaints. There is nothing I can do about it."

"You could ask Mr. Hirojima to cover your fourth period class. It's not like you need to teach four classes."

"I suppose I could do that. Mr. Hirojima does have a two hour break between his second and fifth period classes. Thank you for that suggestion, Ms. Shuzen."

Kurumu giggled, amused that the teacher had overlooked the option of not having a fourth period class.

"Are you still looking for a new club, Ms. Kurono?"

"I am. After lunch, I'm going to meet with the sewing club. Then I'm going to the school to practice with the choir."

"Would you be interested in my poetry club?"

Kurumu snorted, thinking about Kyuushutsu Tokei. The incubus from the poetry club had caused her some grief before the school festival, starting up a utopia with several students from his poetry club, homeroom and art class all under his charm. This incident which had girls charmed into being naked had included many of her friends like Akari, Kana and even Moka. Nijiro had also been dragged into it since he was Kyuushutsu's class representative.

"I would rather not be associated with Kyuushutsu."

"You need not worry about him. He withdrew from the club before the school festival."

"I'm aware of that. Do you know what club he joined?"

"I don't. I haven't thought to ask the other teachers if he joined any of theirs."

"Well I already declined Ms. Endo's offer to join your club. I can't say that I'm close friends with any of the girls from your club and it's not like I've ever had a passion for poetry."

"I understand. Good luck with your search."

The conversation died and they walked more than half the remaining distance to Baratoge in silence.

"Is Miyamoto still training Aono?"

Kurumu laughed at Kokoa's random inquiry.

"Suddenly thinking about your big brother?"

"It's not like that!"

"Then how does he even come up?"

"Because we were talking about drinking blood earlier and Kyuushutsu got mentioned."

Kurumu smirked at the blushing girl. Kokoa and Miyamoto had also been involved in that madness.

"I honestly have no idea what Miyamoto is doing these days."

"He's training with Tsukune every morning before breakfast. Tsukune didn't even have to ask. Miyamoto just resumed their morning routine that first school day after we got back from Yukimura."

Moka's declaration caught Kurumu by surprise.

"I guess that's fine. We do need to all get stronger."

"You will never be able to overpower Lord Fujisaki, Kurumu. You need to fight smarter, not stronger."

"Spoken like a weakling."

"We're not vampires, brat. Maybe there is merit in the three of you training physically, but Kurumu and I need to work on our wits."

"What about me?"

Moka wagged a finger at Mizore.

"You need to take care of yourself. I don't want you anywhere near a fight."

"That should be true for all of you. Focus on your studies. Not whatever this other thing is."

Kurumu laughed, momentarily forgetting that Mrs. Sunao was with them.

"Sorry, Mrs. Sunao. All of us would rather have school as our only priority."

"This coming from Kurumu? Who are you and what have you done with my friend?"

Kurumu pouted at Yukari's playful remark.

"Have you taken Mr. Aono's blood?"

Moka frowned at Mizore's inquiry.

"Not since before our trip to Yukimura. Why?"

"I haven't given him my blood since that time."

Kurumu snorted at Mizore's admission.

"And you don't plan to ever again. I can't say that I've spoken to Tsukune since we got back."

"When was the last time Rubi gave him blood?"

Yukari glanced at the concerned Moka as Baratoge became more visible through the thinning woods.

"Last Thursday night."

"Almost a whole week. He needs to take her blood tonight."

"I might not be able to arrange that on such short notice. I would have to let both Tsukune and Rubi know after classes and there's no way of knowing if Rubi can do it. She's been coming home late every night these past couple of weeks."

"Does the Headmaster have that much stuff for her to do?"

"He is retiring, Kurumu. There's a bunch of things he wants finished before he turns the school over to my Grandfather."

"Do what you can, Yukari. Aono will never be able to fight at full strength with the threat of becoming a ghoul hanging over him."

"Trying to freshen up his blood for a tastier snack?"

Moka blushed at Mizore's calmly delivered remark.

"No! And when I have this seal fixed in China, I'll make sure that I won't need his help to remove it."

"Well if you don't need his blood, can I have a sip of it?"

"You stay away from him, Kokoa! Aono is my blood claim!"

Kurumu giggled at the flustered Moka as they entered the clearing surrounding the first year girls' dorm. Standing near the glass doors for the main entrance was Yarimizu. Upon seeing them, the blond perked up and approached them, brandishing a sheet of paper.

"I need to talk to you, Ms. Kurono."

"Morning, Ms. Yarimizu. Could you open the door for us?"

Yarimizu paused at the teacher's request, turning on her heel to walk with them back to the dorm.

"Yea. Yamabato left another letter in my shoe locker this morning."

"What's this about Yamabato?"

Kurumu waved a hand at Moka dismissively as Yarimizu held up her lunch card. The sensor above the doors recognized the card, triggering the door to slide open.

"Just some nonsense going on."

"This nonsense was supposed to stop. Now he wants me to meet him tonight in the library at six."

"How is that a problem? Just meet up with him and tell him that you're too good for him."

Yarimizu pouted, stuffing her lunch card back in her jacket pocket.

"It's not like that."

"Come inside, girls. You can save your gossip for after classes."

"Wait! Please, Ms. Kurono."

Kurumu sighed when the girl stepped in front of her to bar her path. Yukari paused at the door to keep it open as the vampires and Mizore continued inside on the heels of Mrs. Sunao.

"Are you coming?"

"Give me a moment. I guess I have to do something here."

Yarimizu let out a sigh of relief as Yukari slipped inside, allowing the door to close.

"Thank you so much."

"I have no clue what you want me to do about it. I thought for sure that he'd give up on this when the boys teased him over that cheesy poetry."

"Could you charm him into leaving me alone?"

Kurumu bristled at the suggestion.

"I am not going to use my powers on a friend like that."

"But you charmed like half the school."

"And I'm lucky that I wasn't expelled for that."

Kurumu sighed at the pleading look in Yarimizu's hazel eyes.

"Fine. I'll be at the school tonight anyways. I suppose I could go to this meeting with you."

"I'd rather not face him at all."

"Do you want my help or not? I'm fine not getting involved in crushing the heart of a friend."

"It's not like you're a close friend of his."

"He's more of a friend to me than you are. Take it or leave it."

Yarimizu bit her lip, clutching the sheet of paper to her slight bosom.

"Can't you just handle it at lunch?"

This girl's demeanor and requests made Kurumu feel so frustrated and angry. Not wanting to deal with this stupidity longer than she had to, she grabbed the hem of her jacket and slipped her left arm out of the sleeve before doing the same to the other.

"What are you doing?"

Kurumu scowled, thrusting the jacket at the confused girl. Yarimizu absently took the garment.

"I'm going to fly your dumb ass over to Chikara right now."

"But we'll be late for class."

Kurumu tugged the strap of the schoolbag up over her head and handed it to the girl.

"You want me to embarrass him at lunch. So if I'm going to humiliate him in front of a crowd, we may as well do it now when it's just the boys."

Yarimizu pouted, taking the strap. The moment the weight left her hands, Kurumu started unbuttoning her blouse from the top down.

"You could take him aside during lunch."

"That might start rumors about me and him. And seeing how much of a coward you are, you probably wouldn't bother correcting them."

"I'm sorry, Ms. Kurono. I don't know what else I can do."

Kurumu finished the last of the buttons, pulling the ends free of her skirt. She took off her blouse, scowling at the girl as she presented Yarimizu the garment.

"You could have rejected him properly from the start."

Yarimizu started to cry softly as she took the blouse.

"But I did. I already rejected him once. Why should I have to do it again?"

"Which study room will he be in?"

Yarimizu clutched all of the items closer to her as she glanced aside. Tears rolled down her cheeks.

"I don't know."

"Then we'll just have to check each room until we find him. You better not drop any of my stuff."

As Yarimizu sniffled and nodded, Kurumu let her wings out. She flexed them once before walking over to the pathetic undine. Her sour feelings did not subside in the slightest when she wrapped her arms about the trembling girl. If anything, they worsened. Undines were not the least bit attractive in their true forms regardless of how nice some were. But Yarimizu was ugly to the core. Kamitsuku deserved better.

With a strong push, Kurumu shot up into the sky, causing Yarimizu to squeak in alarm. Kurumu held the coward close as she flapped her wings, taking her above the treeline. She leaned her weight to roll over in the sky before she started towards the clearing about the dining hall. Yarimizu had her eyes closed tightly, relying on Kurumu to hold her since her hands were full of Kurumu's things.

Kurumu had a passing thought of tossing this girl in the ocean. It was not like tossing an undine into the ocean would hurt her. It would just be a huge inconvenience with how far she would be from the dorms and needing new clothes. But since this dummy was holding her things, it would also be bothersome for her. More than bothersome since her phone was in her purse inside her schoolbag.

What had taken her minutes by land was taking her seconds by sky. She was already on the other side of the clearing, shooting over the woods between the dining hall and the boys' dorm. The dour, seven story building stood taller than the surrounding trees.

Unlike Baratoge which featured several architectural patterns and designs, the exterior of Chikara mostly consisted of smooth, brown bricks. Narrow windows marked the location of each of the dorm rooms. These slits of glass were deceptively large enough to suggest someone could get through them but had proven otherwise when Kurumu had attempted such a feat.

Chikara lacked an elevator, having exterior stairways on either side of the rectangular structure instead of a centralized one. The first floor was open to the public but the upper floors could only be accessed through exterior doors sealed with magnetic locks which would only release when a lunch card for a first year boy was passed through a card swiper mounted by the door.

Reaching the clearing about the dorm, Kurumu angled her wings sharply to cause a sudden drop. Yarimizu let out a startled cry but kept her eyes shut. Sailing once about the building to reduce speed, Kurumu came back to the front where the mail shack stood. This was a simple building with one door facing the main trail to the dining hall. The sides of this shack were lined with numbered compartments which could be opened by spinning the dials in the right combination from the outside.

Whipping her wings up again, Kurumu fell to the ground not far from one of the bike racks. About a dozen bikes were chained up here though Kurumu could not recall ever seeing a guy ride one to school. Her feet hit the ground hard, causing Yarimizu to groan.

"You could have warned me."

Kurumu snorted, letting go of the girl. Yarimizu staggered away, favoring her a frown. Rolling her eyes, Kurumu thrust her hand out as she brought her wings back into her body.

"Give me back my blouse."

Yarimizu stumbled towards her, holding everything out.

"Just the blouse. We are flying back."

Before Yarimizu could react, Kurumu snatched the white blouse from the blond. She slung her arms into the sleeves and quickly started to button up over her cornflower blue bra.

"Can I wait out here?"

"No. You're coming inside with me."

Yarimizu pouted as Kurumu finished up with her task. Sucking in a deep breath, Kurumu gestured for the undine to follow as she started towards the main door. The girl whimpered but acquiesced.

The automatic door opened upon sensing their presence, allowing them into a huge open space that the boys called the recreation room. On her left was a television resting on a black stand. Couches and armchairs were arranged about a low table in the center of that cozy space. On her right was two ping pong tables and a billiards table. These tables had been secured to the floor to prevent them from migrating into a different room.

The room was deeper on the left side, going all the way to the other exterior wall. In that space there was an air hockey table and there were also a couple dart boards tacked to the wall. Like everything else in this room, it was bring your own stuff if you wanted to use it since the community property had been lost long ago.

The walls that diminished this space on the right was for the laundry room. For whatever reason, the laundry room was only accessible from the exterior. She strolled over to this wall, glancing down the hallway on her right. The short corridor did not go all the way to the exterior, ending in a spot with four doors opening into four study rooms. An identical corridor was on the other side.

"Left or right?"

"Uh… left?"

Kurumu supposed that was good enough for her. She walked purposefully towards the short corridor with Yarimizu reluctantly following her. It only took a few seconds to reach the set of doors. She glanced inside the first room on her left, immediately spotting Tsukune and Kamitsuku sitting in the front row. It did not look like Ms. Nekonome was here yet which was good.

Kurumu beckoned for Yarimizu to follow as she entered the study room. The space seemed no larger than the study rooms in Baratoge with the boys lining up into rows of five just like the girls had done. The big guys like Ushio and Tamaishi from soccer were seated in the back. Yamazaru from judo and Gorimatsu from the skiing club were also back there. The scowling Takurami had the last spot.

Yougan with his dark red locks swept up like a broomstick was unsurprisingly seated next to Ikazuchi in the next row in front of Ushio. Tokeru of the fencing club sat beside Yougan, likely getting along with his fellow salamander from a different community. The bald Tatakai and the grinning Tanimoto filled out the rest of that row.

"What brings you here?"

Kurumu managed a smile with mixed emotions as Tsukune stood up with a frown. She was glad that he had said something since it took some of the guys' attention from her. Ushio in particular still had strong feelings for her which she had encouraged in her time between boyfriends. She had kissed him and he had talked his mother into coming to the festival to meet Kurumu. His mother had summarily rejected Kurumu as a girlfriend which had come as a huge relief.

Maybe she was no better than Yarimizu after all.

"Hey, Tsukune. I'm actually here for Kamitsuku."

The stocky Kamitsuku frowned up at her with ochre eyes. He slowly picked himself up off the floor as Yarimizu timidly grabbed Kurumu by the arm. The undine had slung Kurumu's schoolbag up on her shoulder with Kurumu's jacket draped over the top of the bag.

"I'm guessing this has something to do with Ms. Yarimizu."

"Don't play dumb. You need to stop sending me creepy letters."

Several boys snickered at the remark, including Nukugata from the manga club whom sat directly behind Kamitsuku. Hayate from tennis whom sat behind Tsukune wore a mask of indifference.

"I'm not writing you letters."

"Nothing has changed. Just because my parents aren't here, doesn't mean that I can suddenly date you. I was never interested in you that way. We were good friends. That's all I ever wanted."

"I tried to step back to being friends but you kept acting like anything nice I did was hitting on you."

"Because you made me think that way."

Kamitsuku sighed heavily, relaxing his shoulders.

"Look. I didn't send you those letters. Did you even read them? That's not something I would say to a girl I've known since we were little."

Tsukune chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his neck.

"Yea. That was some pretty embarrassing stuff. Aku and the guys have been hounding Kamitsuku every chance they get since they got their hands on those letters."

"Can I see those letters?"

Kurumu wagged her finger at Ikazuchi whom had his platinum locks shaved short and neat. The raiji had a mischievous grin which only meant bad things for Kamitsuku.

"Stay out of this."

"It had to be you. Nobody else would call me his water lily."

"That's a common term of endearment. Ren and Tomio have heard it used by many guys when talking about their girlfriends."

Kurumu perked up at Kamitsuku's remark about the other kappa boys.

"So that phrase is common in Umiman?"

"Yea. Any secret admirer of hers could use it."

"Oh just stop acting innocent."

"Why stop when I'm not guilty?"

Yarimizu scowled, tugging the sheet of paper out of her pocket. She unfolded it and held it up.

"My precious water lily. There seems to be a misunderstanding. Please meet with me tonight at six in the library. All shall be revealed. Your lily pad."

"Your lily pad?"

Ikazuchi snickered at Yougan's echoed inquiry.

"That is so cute."

"Cute? How desperate do you have to be to call yourself a lily pad?"

Kamitsuku chuckled, looking thoroughly embarrassed.

"Well that unfortunately is the pairing for water lily. For the record, I've never called her my water lily."

Kurumu studied his reaction, uncertain if he was guilty or not. A part of her wanted to simply touch him and take a quick peak into his mind. Yukari often reprimanded her for not using her powers.

"I know this whole thing is embarrassing, but if it is you, you should give up on this girl. There are much better ones available."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

Kurumu huffed at Yarimizu's protest.

"Exactly what it sounds like."

"Any guy would be lucky to have me."

"I guess it's good that Kamitsuku isn't lucky. He can have a chance at a girl whom actually loves him."

Yarimizu pouted, holding the letter against her slight bosom.

"I guess that's fair. It's not like I want him to be alone."

"Well I didn't write that letter so I guess you'll have to go to the library to tell this admirer off."

"You're just trying to save face now that you've been exposed."

"I'm doing this admirer a favor. I'd feel bad for this dude if you stood him up."

"You're the dude!"

"If that's the case, I suppose I can just keep writing you letters until you do show up."

"Ha! You admit it!"

Frustrated by this, Kurumu stepped in between the two. She innocently placed a hand on his arm as she wagged a finger at Yarimizu.

"Just stop. You don't know if he authored that letter."

"Yea. Anybody could have written that."

"You don't know him, Mr. Aono. He's been infatuated with me for years."

Kurumu only had to look back through his memories from last night to confirm that Kamitsuku had not been to Baratoge or written a letter. He had been teased quite thoroughly and his frustration with being accused of something he did not do filled her heart. As tempting as it was to clear his name here and now, Kurumu knew that any claim of using her power could be subject to disbelief. She released his arm.

"Let it go, Yarimizu. Somebody else wrote the letter."

"No. It has to be him."

Kurumu ignored the girl, turning to Kamitsuku.

"Do you have any clue whom might have written this?"

"Well with that last letter, I'm guessing it must be someone that knows about my wrongful persecution."

"One of the guys on your floor?"

"Probably. Though if it turns out to be Ren or Tomio, I'm going to be so pissed. Those two have given me way too much grief to still be friends if they are guilty."

Kurumu managed a smile, well aware of how hard Aku and the others had made things on Kamitsuku. The guy still had strong feelings for Yarimizu. He had even cried himself to sleep last night.

"I'd hope it isn't either of them but Takoshine is a complete scumbag."

"Honestly I can't imagine that freak being in love with anyone but his queen."

"I'm sorry about this, Kamitsuku. This dummy was convinced that you were stalking her."

"It's fine. Not the first time she's overreacted."

"But it has to be him!"

Kurumu turned and flicked the girl in the forehead, causing the girl to whine.

"Hush! You've caused this poor guy enough trouble over a hunch."

"Ms. Kurono? Is there a reason for you being here?"

Kurumu grinned at Ms. Nekonome as the teacher strolled over to join them. The woman was sporting a short sleeved denim jacket over a pink tank top which failed to meet the hem of her long denim skirt.

"Just clearing up a matter between an innocent young man and a self-centered girl."

"But nobody else has shown interest in me."

Kurumu grabbed Yarimizu by the hand and tugged her towards the door.

"And with your attitude, nobody should. Sorry for the disruption."

Several guys chuckled as Kurumu dragged the pouting girl out of the room.

"Ms. Kurono. Please close the door."

Kurumu paused in the hallway, letting go of Yarimizu. She shut the door as requested, noting that two of the other doors had been closed since their arrival. The massive Mr. Umatobi stood in front of the last room, already starting his lecture to the boys of classes five and seven.

"What do we do now?"

Kurumu huffed at Yarimizu as she started down the short hall to the main room.

"You get to go to the library to meet up with your mystery admirer."

"Is it seriously not Kamitsuku?"

Kurumu paused in the large room at the girl's usage of his first name.

"It's not. I'll explain it to you on the way back."

Yarimizu nodded thoughtfully as they made their way to the main doors which opened the moment they triggered the sensor. They stepped out into the crisp morning air.

"Are you still going to come with me to the library tonight?"

Kurumu smirked as she started to undo her buttons.

"Don't push your luck."

---

"I can't believe it's not Yamabato."

Kurumu scowled at Masataka as she added a bowl of udon to her lunch tray. The undine from class one had greenish blond hair and hazel eyes.

"And I can't believe that you all just assumed it was."

On the way to the dining hall, Kurumu had given the three undines the same explanation she had given Yarimizu this morning. She had touched him and verified the memories of his activities from last night. Manami had accepted it right away but these other two from Umishiro were struggling with the truth.

"It just made sense."

"It's actually hard to imagine anyone else being interested in Eika."

Kurumu huffed at the other two, placing a dinner roll next to her box of yakitori on her tray. Figuring this was enough for her, she sauntered away from the shelves to line up behind Manami. Since Mizore was fine grabbing only a half-liter of ice cream for lunch, the snow girl was already up at the register being totaled out by the disinterested woman wearing a black hairnet over her strawberry curls.

"Don't be mad at them. I didn't think about telling them how common those nicknames were among the kids in my junior high."

Kurumu sighed at Manami's apologetic smile.

"I'm not mad. Just frustrated. This really hurt him."

"I do feel sorry for Yamabato."

Kurumu glanced at Utsumi as the girl lined up behind her. The look in her pink eyes seemed genuine.

"Your friend is a total bitch."

Masataka snickered as she drifted over to join them in the line.

"Never thought I'd hear someone call Eika that."

"You shouldn't find this funny."

Masataka shrugged nonchalantly at Utsumi's pout.

"It's her own fault. She should have never been friends with him to begin with."

Kurumu scowled at the prissy girl.

"There's nothing wrong with Kamitsuku."

"He's a kappa."

"That shouldn't have anything to do with it."

"But it does. It's not an issue being friends with a kappa girl but you can't be that way with guys. I told her years ago to stop hanging out with him."

Kurumu seethed at those words. The only thing keeping her retort in check was knowing that it would change nothing. She had to remain civil for Manami's sake as Manami stepped up to the register to hand her tray over to the apathetic worker. Mizore was heading over to the beverage vending machines.

"Should Eika turn down this secret admirer?"

Kurumu huffed at Utsumi as the lady behind the register rang up Manami's items.

"I think her admirer should stand her up."

"That might happen after you two made such a public display this morning."

"This isn't funny, Midori. If he is innocent, then he got rejected a second time over nothing."

"It's nothing to cry about."

Kurumu sighed, regretting her decision to share that information. Manami moved aside with her lunch tray, allowing Kurumu to step up and hand off her lunch tray to the cashier.

"Do you have any idea what it would be like to be accused of doing something wrong when you're innocent and having nobody believe you?"

"If you're innocent, you're innocent."

"Stop. You've cried over less serious matters."

"Shut up."

Kurumu handed over her lunch card to be swiped as the two quarreled behind her. The truth was what the majority believed to be the truth. The actual truth was often something different. Friends were just people whom thought favorably of each other, regardless of the truth. Cruel people could have friends.

"I wish she had handled this by herself."

Manami smiled apologetically as the worker handed Kurumu back her lunch tray and card.

"I'm sorry. I encouraged her to ask you for help."

Kurumu sighed again, drifting over to join Manami as Utsumi stepped up to the register.

"It's not your fault. Yukari always tells me that I'm too meddlesome."

"Do you think that this admirer is a guy from Umiman?"

"Kamitsuku seems fairly certain of it. What other guys would use those nicknames?"

"It could be an older guy from their village."

Utsumi giggled as she sauntered over to them. Her frosted blue curls danced on her shoulders when she shook her head.

"No way. The only two older guys from Umishiro are Mr. Odayakana and Mr. Namida."

Kurumu nodded, thoroughly doubting the chemistry club president would be responsible. When she had checked the cultural festival committee for spies, she had seen nothing in his mind to suggest that he had a love interest. While this situation developed after the cultural festival, she could not see how that serious guy could suddenly become interested in a first year whom he had little contact with.

"Did Yarimizu watch your gymnastics performance at the festival?"

"Yea. Why?"

"I was just toying with the idea that the mirror might have caused this."

"We didn't go to our haunted house when we saw the chaos on campus. I guess it's possible if the mirror can make you more infatuated with someone on your mind. But I doubt that Eika would ever cross Mr. Odayakana's mind. I could see Mr. Namida doing this."

Masataka huffed as she strolled over to join them.

"Mr. Namida lacks the attention span for this. He would have asked her out weeks ago."

"Yea. He's always been direct though in a joking way. But if it's the mirror-"

"He'd be sending letters to every girl he knows."

Kurumu chuckled, leading the girls to the vending machines.

"I was just throwing the mirror thing out there since this started after the festival."

"Doesn't Yamabato suspect a guy from his floor?"

"That doesn't mean that he's right."

"Maybe it's an older relative of one of the guys on his floor."

"That still doesn't explain how this guy is getting into Baratoge to leave letters in her shoe locker. An undine doesn't have any special powers to get by that door undetected."

Kurumu nodded at Mizore when they arrived. She shifted the tray against her side to slip her hand into a compartment of her schoolbag which had some spare change.

"I can't recall if any undines live on Kamitsuku's floor. It's mostly other kappas."

Masataka snorted as Kurumu slipped the coins into the slot.

"If this admirer isn't an undine, it might be better if they do stand her up."

"Yea. She'll turn them down."

Kurumu punched the button for her yuzu juice, prompting the machine to send a can tumbling down the chute. She carefully hunkered down to fetch the can before moving aside.

"Zanzou is a shade. She can easily get around secure doors."

"Zanzou?"

"A second year girl. She's cousins with Kokutan, a guy on Kamitsuku's floor."

"Do you think it's him?"

Kurumu mulled that over while the other girls made their drink selections. Kokutan had not been one of Kamitsuku's tormentors but probably knew about the letter.

"Maybe. If not, he might know whom this admirer is."

Masataka sighed dramatically as she grabbed her can of coffee.

"I think we are wasting far too much energy on her problems. Unless this guy stands her up, she'll know the responsible party in a few hours."

Manami started off, prompting the group to follow her across the dining hall floor towards their table.

"I kind of hope it is that cousin leaving the letters. That would explain why the Housemother never caught this culprit. It is worrisome that a guy could get around our security."

The girls had brought the situation to the Housemother's attention. The Housemother could sense the presence of those entering her domain but had insisted that no men had been inside her property in over a month.

"It would explain a lot. The only issue is that I was out late last night with Zanzou and Kokutan. It didn't feel like Kokutan was a guy worried about someone else being harassed over his poetry."

"It hardly matters. If he's not an undine, she won't say yes."

"Rejecting a guy over not being the same race is shallow."

"It's not shallow. It's simple sense if you want normal kids."

"I probably can't even have kids with Nijiro but that doesn't mean I should dump him."

"Because you're addicted to sex."

Utsumi snickered at the accusation as they reached their destination. Watakoma was sitting across the table from Yarimizu. Both looked to be nearly finished with their meals. The girl giggled as Yarimizu glanced over her shoulder with a frown.

"Who's addicted to sex?"

"Obviously she's talking about Kurono. She's the only one with a boyfriend."

Kurumu grimaced as she walked around the table. Not in the mood to be teased, she sat down beside Manami at the end of the table. Masataka and Utsumi sat down on either side of Yarimizu with Utsumi across the table from Manami. Mizore quietly claimed the spot on Utsumi's other side.

"I have mixed feelings about that. It's good that she enjoys being with my brother but I don't want to hear about him having sex."

"She has needs."

Utsumi giggled after echoing Kurumu's earlier complaint about not having sex with him in over a week.

"Well I do. But that's only a perk of having a boyfriend. It's not the reason I have one."

"I can sympathize with Manami. I wouldn't want to hear about my brother's sex life."

"Only because you're hoping to be the star of that story."

Utsumi tore off a piece of her dinner roll and tossed it at Masataka.

"Shush. I'm not like that."

Masataka snapped her chopsticks apart before wagging them at Utsumi.

"You offered your virginity for his graduation present."

"Everybody knows I was joking."

Kurumu perked up as she pushed her chopsticks out of the plastic wrapper.

"Even as a joke, that's kind of strange."

"It was at a party. I was teasing him over being a virgin and made a public announcement. If I was being serious, I would have been more discreet with my offer."

"She's always had a thing for her brother. She told our class that she would marry him."

Utsumi swatted Yarimizu's arm.

"That was in third grade. That doesn't count."

"She's going to be heartbroken when he does get a girlfriend."

Utsumi pouted at Masataka's smug grin. She absently took a bite from her roll.

"Kurono is right. You're both bitches."

"What did I do?"

Kurumu huffed at Yarimizu's complaint. Tugging the lid off her bowl of udon, she started mixing up the contents with her chopsticks.

"We could start with your humiliation of your childhood friend."

"That was your fault."

"No. You gave those cheesy letters to his friends. I just forced you to confront him since you were toying with the idea of blowing off this meeting at the library."

Yarimizu wrung her hands as Kurumu twirled her chopsticks about to gather up a wad of noodles.

"But I didn't do anything wrong."

"She says that you used your powers to confirm that he was not the admirer."

Kurumu nodded at Watakoma, swallowing down her first mouthful.

"That's right. He's completely innocent of this."

"Then you're going to have to show up if you want the letters to stop."

"But Ms. Kurono refuses to come with me."

"Because I don't need to be further involved."

"But you could charm-"

"I'm not going to charm a guy into leaving you alone. I'm sure this guy will quickly realize his mistake once he gets to know you."

"Harsh."

Kurumu elected to stuff her mouth than to respond to Watakoma's comment.

"Maybe this admirer is a good person."

"Maybe. But I can't see myself agreeing to date a complete stranger."

"This admirer must know that you're an undine if he's calling you his water lily. It's most likely someone we went to junior high with."

"Is there anyone from our junior high worth having?"

Manami pouted at Watakoma.

"There are lots of nice guys."

"Guys that haven't shown any interest in girls before."

"But that's normal. Most guys don't date the girls they grow up with."

"I guess it could be one of them but how are they getting into our dorm?"

Manami snapped her finger.

"Hasegawa."

Kurumu nearly choked on her noodles at the mention of the third year of the drama club. The guy had a younger sister in Moka's homeroom. Watakoma nodded thoughtfully.

"That could work. He could have asked his sister to deliver those letters."

"Exactly. We never considered asking her if she knew anything about this."

Kurumu pulled up the tab of her yuzu juice to wash the noodles down her throat. She coughed a couple of times, setting the can down as she took in a deep breath.

"Does Hasegawa even know Yarimizu?"

"I know his sister but I've never met him. I honestly forgot that she had a brother."

"He's a sweet guy. More expressive of his emotions than most of the other guys. Good actor."

"He could definitely write those cheesy poems. You have to meet up with him."

Yarimizu flinched at Watakoma's enthusiasm.

"But what if it isn't him?"

"Yea. Yamabato still thinks a guy on the floor is involved."

"Well we did go to junior high with many of those boys. It's possible that one of them is involved."

"Come to the games with us tonight. We can swing by the library when it's time."

Kurumu picked up one of her skewers, intrigued at Watakoma's offer.

"That's right. We have games against Shimote today."

"Which we will lose."

Watakoma wagged a finger at Masataka.

"My cousin says the last games against Shimote were close. With home court advantage, our teams might pull out an important victory."

"I wish I could watch the games but I'm going straight to the choir after the sewing club meeting."

"But that should wrap up before six. Please come with me to this meeting."

"Why? Watakoma sounds eager to help you out here."

"I wouldn't say that but I'm cool with it. What about you two?"

"Don't you have a gymnastics practice to attend?"

Watakoma waved a hand dismissively at Utsumi's giggle.

"I can skip one practice. Manami will cover for me."

"Um… sure. I could do that."

"Well I'm not the least bit interested in sports or Eika's problems. Count me out."

"I could go to the games."

"That's not very helpful."

Utsumi smiled at Yarimizu's pout.

"Ms. Kurono is right that you should handle this on your own."

"But nobody should be meeting a complete stranger by themselves. That's just asking to get killed."

Kurumu sighed, having heard this protest before.

"Fine. I'll check up on you after my choir thing and charm whomever this villain is into not harming you."

"Thank you, Ms. Kurono. I promise that I will make this up to you."

Kurumu snorted, grabbing the last of her skewers.

"How?"

"Um… I'll think of something."

"Maybe loan your new boyfriend to this nympho."

With a full mouth, Kurumu was unable to protest Masataka's remark as the girls giggled.

"I'm not going to have a new boyfriend tonight. Even if it is Mr. Hasegawa."

"But Hasegawa would be a cool boyfriend."

Swallowing the food down, Kurumu wagged the empty skewer at Watakoma.

"Maybe you should ask him out after she tears his heart out."

Watakoma blushed with a sheepish grin.

"Huh? No way."

"You do seem to be quite invested in him."

Watakoma wagged a finger at Masataka's smirk.

"I'm just thinking it would be cool for her to date him."

"If Tarumi had a crush on Hasegawa, I would know about it."

Kurumu smiled at Manami's statement. It was cool that she stood up for her friend.

"Well you better get yourself a boyfriend before the next secret admirer shows up. I don't want poor Kamitsuku getting blamed for stalking you again."

Masataka snorted, picking at her meal.

"Possibly the dumbest thing I've heard. Stalkers don't care if you have a boyfriend."

"It's not that easy finding a boyfriend."

"I don't want to hear that from a girl holding out for her brother."

"I once said that I would marry my brother. It was second or third grade. I can't remember."

Utsumi favored Manami a gracious look.

"Thank you. It's not that weird."

"Yea. You grow out of it. My brother used to play a lot with me but he started paying more attention to his academics in the fifth grade."

"Exactly. It's easy to be infatuated with someone when they spoil you rotten."

"I'm sure that she didn't joke about taking her brother's virginity."

Manami blushed as Utsumi tossed the lid of her entree at Masataka.

"Uh… yea. I never thought about my brother in that way."

"Manami was too happy about Kurono dating her brother for her to have those kind of feelings. Incest jokes aside, are you joining the choir?"

Kurumu grinned at Watakoma, picking up a dinner roll and offering a shrug.

"Maybe. I know most of the girls in it, though I won't pretend that I'm close friends with any of them. It certainly is more likely than me joining the sewing club but I should keep my promise to Ms. Zoushiki."

"If you weren't such a flake, I'd encourage you to take Ms. Herikuda's offer to run the fashion club."

Kurumu snorted at Masataka.

"Thanks but no thanks."

"Who will take over your fashion club if Mr. Morioka wins?"

Masataka huffed at Utsumi.

"Not me. I'm fine with switching to another club if it came to that."

Kurumu smirked, wondering what would happen if Ginei won the election. It was no big deal if the fashion club discontinued but the newspaper club was kind of important to the school.

"Did any of you get a free pair of thongs yesterday?"

The truth of those flush denials was up for debate.

---

"I believe we should wrap things up for today. I want to thank Ms. Kurono for being with us today."

Kurumu smiled at Mrs. Tomarigi whom stood in front of the choir behind a music stand. The harpy had short, peach locks with the tips frosted white. Her navy dress jacket was left open, baring a white blouse which strained under her large bosom. A matching navy skirt wrapped tightly about the curves of her hips and thighs, ending below her knees.

"Thank you for having me today. And being patient with me."

"No trouble at all. Very few girls know what their vocal range is prior to joining an official choir."

A hand touched Kurumu's shoulder, drawing her attention to a girl with mulberry tresses pulled into an offside ponytail. This silver eyed third year was Saiwakami Takara, the former club president.

"Most girls are mezzo sopranos. It's nothing to worry about."

"Yea. We only have four true sopranos."

The speaker was Tadayo Korogi and she was standing beside her younger sister, Hotaru. Korogi was the shorter, less endowed sister. While her sister had curly, carrot orange hair which brushed her shoulders, Korogi had fine amber locks which were trimmed short along the sides and tapered up in the back. Her bangs were longer, covering her left eye. Both sisters had hazelnut eyes.

"I am proud to be one of them."

The brunette touching her slight bosom with pride was Kichida Sara. The shorter girl with the scruffy ginger locks standing next to Kichida was Sakibarai Amabyo.

"It's not the special."

"I don't want to hear that from a girl purring her notes."

Sakibarai blushed, jabbing Kichida in the shoulder.

"I'm not purring!"

Saiwakami and several other girls grouped about Kurumu giggled. Bouzuki Kanari timidly stepped in close to Kurumu's side, placing a hand on the small of Kurumu's back. The harpy had creamy blond locks with curled bangs touching the thin eyebrows over her honey eyes.

"Being a true soprano doesn't mean that you can't sing. I'm not a true soprano."

"Precisely. Our other three true sopranos are Ms. Noboto, Ms. Akushita and Ms. Dakuhime."

Korogi nodded at Saiwakami's remark, pointing at the tiny Dakuhime whom had her fine grayish locks braided along the sides of her small head. Dakuhime was the only choir girl shorter than Kurumu.

"The little one is almost as quiet as her friend."

This quiet friend standing beside Dakuhime was Yokumoto. She was about the same height as Kurumu, Sakibarai and the older Tadayo sister. Yokumoto had sable tresses which threatened to touch the floor.

"I get nervous."

Kurumu grinned, electing not to mention the volume of Dakuhime's shower singing. When she had lived in Baratoge, her room had been on the same floor as Dakuhime and Yokumoto. Both of these girls had attended the junior high in Aserutani which Saiwakami had graduated from.

"So you don't separate the true sopranos out?"

"Not much need to. Ms. Akushita and I can both sing the entire mezzo soprano range."

"Because you have two voices."

Kichida wagged a finger at Sakibarai but made no protest. Kurumu had determined within two songs that Kichida was a futakuchi just like Akushita. Akushita stood off to the side of the sopranos, chatting with Natsudera between songs. She had fine, inky black hair which brushed the curve of her tiny derriere. Natsudera was one of the five altos and had her dark blue tresses pulled back in a simple ponytail.

While some of the electives were still being held for the third years, the band and choir courses had been suspended until the school reopened. Most of the band and choir stuff had been moved to the back corner of the room behind the drums. There was also a bunch of desks and chairs stacked back there since one of the third year classes was using this room.

"Ms. Maruyuchi is our only contralto. It wouldn't be fun to have her stand apart from the altos."

Saiwakami's comment drew Kurumu's attention to the stocky Maruyuchi Fushiko. The second year had long black hair and respectable curves in all the right places. She was cousin to Tomohito, the judo club captain, and she was planning to marry the former judo club captain. It was not an arranged relationship like many were for her species.

The big girl with the short black hair standing next to Maruyuchi was Sazayama Megumi. The third year looked almost identical to her younger sister on the volleyball team.

The other two altos were Yanagisawa Kuheki and Kawano Nagano. Yanagisawa had wavy hair of a bright blue color like lapis while Kawano had bouncy curls the color of green olives. They were third years from Ikinakawa. The undines had not spared any words with Kurumu beyond their reintroduction. She could see why the pair had never bothered joining the other undines at their swimming spot.

The last alto was actually seated behind the piano since she was the most skilled with it. This forgettable brunette was Ikeda Yui. The second year shared a dorm room with Amatsu.

The golden haired Amatsu was hanging in the back of the sopranos, quietly conversing with Okimune and the second year harpies from Kabashita. The shorter one whom was not much taller than Kurumu was Noboto Setsuwa. She had ashen gray curls and tiger orange eyes. The other was Oso Kashiko. She had cotton white tresses which ended below her waist. Like many harpies, these girls had ample bosoms. They were teasing Okimune over her plans to meet up with Shiname to watch the basketball game.

Okimune was as gorgeous as Kurumu's memory of her. Her curls were almost the same hue as Kurumu's and her figure was almost as enticing. They could have passed for sisters if not for the slightly different facial structure. It was hard to believe that this gorgeous girl's true form was very unappealing.

"So, Ms. Kurono. Would you be interested in filling out a form to join the choir?"

Kurumu smiled at Mrs. Tomarigi's question. Kanari pressed closer to her side as several girls looked upon her with hope. She felt inadequate for the choir, thinking karaoke would be a safer choice. Less pressure.

The choir consisted of twenty four girls. Nine were seniors whom would graduate this spring, so fretting over her lack of knowing the seniors was silly. It was not like she needed to be friends with Hayabusa Rei or Karasu Kuroko, the senior harpies from Uchimori. Karasu had the shoulder length ebony curls while Hayabusa had the ivory tresses which touched the small of her back. Hayabusa had blush pink eyes while Karasu had icy blue ones. They were both so pretty and looking so hopefully at her.

"Join us, Ms. Kurono."

Utachi Fumenko latched onto her other side after voicing her request. The first year harpy had her raisin hued hair styled in a pair of buns. She had butterscotch eyes which widened when another girl grabbed her by the shoulders.

"Ease off her, Fuu. You don't want to scare her away."

Chousei Akiko giggled, tugging on her friend from junior high. The sprite had greenish blond hair which was pulled back in two braided tails. Like many of these girls, Chousei was from Kabashita and had gone to junior high with Juri.

"It would be fun."

Umou Saezuri clutched her hands together, regarding Kurumu with eyes the color of wine. Her cinnamon tresses came down in a pair of curls like drills, touching her slender shoulders. Saezuri was taller than her more endowed older sister from band. The harpy shared homeroom with Dakuhime and Utachi.

"Please."

Kanari's word broke her hesitation. She took in a deep breath and slipped her arm around the girl's back to rest her hand on Kanari's hip.

"Okay. I'll join the choir."

The harpies about her squealed in delight. Saiwakami grinned, gesturing at the Tadayo sisters.

"You should give her the form."

"That's right. Official duty of the new club president."

Hotaru blushed from her sister's statement. The girl quietly walked over to the grinning teacher whom had pulled out a form from a folder which was resting on the music stand before her. The harpy handed over the form and a pen to the flush girl.

"Will she really be joining us?"

Kurumu laughed at the surprise in Okimune's voice. She nodded as Hotaru hurried back to her. She smiled graciously upon the girl, taking the form and pen.

"I've been told that I should join a club before the election."

"I didn't think the choir would interest her."

"Don't say that. We are happy to have Ms. Kurono."

Kurumu giggled at Akushita's response to Natsudera. She balanced the form in her hand, filling the top portion with her name and homeroom. Like all of these generic forms, there was a spot to write down her hopes and expectations for the club. Only exclusive clubs cared to read that stuff.

"We need to go karaoke."

Umou nodded in agreement with Utachi.

"Absolutely. Are you free this weekend?"

Kurumu laughed as she wrote down vague goals of singing better and making friends.

"I doubt it. My friends want to see that Harry Potter movie when it comes out."

"That won't take the whole day."

"Calm down, Ms. Umou. Movies aside, we are getting closer to exams. You should be using your free time focused on your studies."

Umou pouted at Saiwakami.

"But our exams are still scheduled for the last week."

"Yea. It's not like we'd be goofing off. It's practice for choir."

"But that isn't necessary. Our next concert is months away."

"Yes. The first weekend of March."

Kurumu smiled, finishing up her form. She handed the pen and paper back to Hotaru.

"Where will that be held?"

Hotaru smiled softly, taking the items.

"It's not been decided."

"They announce which school will host that concert after winter break."

Sakibarai nodded at Saiwakami's statement as Hotaru walked off.

"Yea. It will be nice this year. We won't have to worry about exams."

"Mhm. We take our last exams next week."

Saiwakami nodded at Korogi's remark. The four seniors took in a deep breath almost in unison.

"Graduation."

"Yea. Though Kichida might get held back."

"I will not!"

"You're the only third year with her name on the board of shame."

Kurumu tried not to laugh with the other girls, not regarding herself as a good student.

"And it is official. Ms. Kurono is a member of the choir."

The girls all clapped at Mrs. Tomarigi's announcement. The younger Tadayo sister remained at the teacher's side as the woman closed up her folder.

"Just so you know, I prefer the girls in choir to have choir as their elective. It isn't required but I strongly suggest it. Your voice is like any other muscle. It must be exercised to reach its full potential."

Kurumu grinned as Kanari snuggled against her shoulder.

"I'm fine with that. I wasn't sure if I wanted to take the culture elective next year."

A hand patted her head. She glanced over her shoulder, matching Okimune's grin. The girl had lovely buttermilk eyes.

"Glad to have you. We'll need someone to replace Riki."

"I'm not quitting the choir."

"She is grossly underestimating how demanding a position in the student council will be."

"It's just a secretary position. I'll be fine."

"Ms. Okimune is right. Ms. Komeichi had to resign from band before the year even ended."

"Are you sure that wasn't by Mr. Kuyo's request?"

Saiwakami shrugged at Amatsu's inquiry.

"If it was, she didn't state that as her reason. I've known her since primary school. I can ask her about it and let you know if your thoughts of remaining with us are realistic or not."

"I'll stick with the choir even if it is difficult to manage."

"As much as I love to watch you girls socialize, I must ask for most of you to leave. I would like the third years and our new club president to stay behind and discuss some matters which mostly affect them."

The girls sounded out an acknowledgment in unison. Maruyuchi was first to start off, heading for the door which was closer to the gym. This prompted Akushita and Natsudera to follow with the harpy second years not far behind. Okimune and Amatsu seemed intent on waiting for Ikeda.

Loosely holding onto Kanari, Kurumu guided the girl to the back of the room while on the heels of Umou, Utachi and Chousei. Dakuhime and Yokumoto quietly walked ahead of this trio.

"Hey, Ms. Oso!"

Her call caused the harpy to pause at the door.

"I need to talk to you before you go."

Oso nodded, drifting out into the hallway.

"Mind if we stick around for this?"

Kurumu chuckled at Umou's inquiry as they headed out into the corridor.

"I don't mind."

Noboto was lingering with Oso underneath the landing of one of the stairways going up to the hall with the computer and business electives. Dakuhime and Yokumoto took off to the left, making their way down to the end of this hall. The first trio were already near the end, favoring the right side of the hall.

To the right, this hall went only down to where the other door to the band room was. A temporary wall had been built at that point, denying access to the bathrooms and the classrooms beyond. There was a second stairway which was not blocked off. Kurumu had seen last night that the upper wing only had access to the upper bathrooms, computer rooms and the sewing room.

"What's up?"

"I had a word with Ijouyama last week."

"Meddling with her love life?"

The younger harpies giggled at Noboto's playful remark.

"Not on purpose. I just teased him about having a harpy crushing on him. I didn't say it was Oso."

"How did he respond?"

"He definitely wants to lose his virginity. But I wouldn't say that he has a relationship in mind."

"That's not a problem."

Oso pouted at Noboto, wringing her hands.

"But he doesn't even know it's me."

"If you don't want it, I'll take it."

"Absolutely not! I could never be with him if he got you pregnant."

"But our girls could be half-sisters."

Oso whimpered, glancing at the door as Okimune strolled out of the room with Amatsu and Ikeda trailing behind. The undine took note of the gathering, drifting over to join them.

"That's not what I want."

"Is this some juicy gossip?"

Utachi giggled with a nod.

"Ms. Oso might be hooking up."

"But I want what Mrs. Tomarigi has."

Kurumu smiled at the complaint. The choir teacher had married one of the gym teachers whom was the kendo club advisor. The couple had two little girls.

"Mr. Miwa cut ties with his family for that."

"Not entirely true. His brother works here."

Kurumu smirked at Noboto's correction.

"Anyways. I could tell him it's you the next time I bump into him."

Oso fidgeted with her hands indecisively.

"No. I should tell him myself."

"Finally going to fall on that sword?"

"She definitely wants his sword in her."

The younger harpies giggled at Noboto's quip. Amatsu blushed, clearly not having meant her question to be taken that way.

"Well please do. I'd prefer not to be the only girl teased over having a boyfriend."

"Are they giving you a hard time?"

"Yes, Ms. Kurono. The innuendo never stops."

"They can tease me all they want about Nijiro."

Okimune laughed nervously with a blush.

"Well I'm not nearly as far into my relationship as you two are rumored to be."

"What rumors are these?"

"Ones that most of the undine girls know about."

Chousei giggled with flush cheeks.

"Not just undine girls. Ms. Touzoku was quite vocal about Ms. Kurono's discovery and appreciation of the undine male anatomy."

Amatsu nodded slowly, clearly unaware of the rumors.

"Okay then. Are you having sex with Mr. Amesuki?"

Doubting there was any value in keeping it secret at this point, Kurumu puffed up her chest defiantly.

"Yes. And it is positively amazing."

"I suppose that's fine if it doesn't hurt Ms. Sawayaka's campaign."

"You really shouldn't boast about that."

"It's not boasting. It's a fact. You'll feel the same way with Shiname when you do get there."

"Maybe. But we both think that exams are more important right now."

"Ugh. How boring."

Oso laughed at Noboto's protest.

"But that is responsible. I should wait until next term to talk with Ijouyama. No reason to do it before exams or ask him out and then be away from him all winter break."

"You chicken."

Kurumu giggled along with the others as Oso pouted. Grinning, Amatsu gestured down the hall.

"We should get going. We don't want Hitsumi to be late for her vanilla date."

Okimune huffed as she started down the hall, prompting everyone to follow.

"For the record, I actually prefer vanilla ice cream."

"Mhm. Kashiko prefers a creampie."

"I swear if Katsuo does become my boyfriend, you are not allowed to talk to him."

Kurumu grinned with flush cheeks as they quickly made it to the end of the hall. On the right was the stair she had used last night which had access to the roof. There was also an exterior door which had a worn dirt path on the other side. That path went out to the shop, art and mechanic buildings.

To the left was the hall which would take them by the library and cafeteria. A temporary wall had been built further down this hall, denying access to the first and second year wings. The inviting scent of fried concessions carried to them. Kurumu came to a stop, giving Kanari a squeeze.

"I'm meeting a friend in the gym. Are you heading home?"

"I can stick around."

"Yea. We can watch the game."

Noboto snickered, wagging a hand at Umou.

"Planning to ruin Ms. Okimune's date."

Oso grabbed Noboto by her ear and tugged.

"I think you're talking about yourself. We are going home."

"As are we. Will you be joining us, Ms. Chousei?"

Chousei paused in thought, glancing at Utachi whom favored her with pleading eyes.

"I think I'll stay with Fuu."

"Don't cause Ms. Okimune any grief."

"You mean like you would."

Amatsu stuck her tongue out at Okimune before walking off with the other three juniors towards the exterior door. Okimune slowly drifted in the opposite direction, prompting the remaining girls to follow. In seconds they were walking by the bathrooms.

"Are you meeting with your boyfriend, Ms. Kurono?"

"I wish. A girl got called out by a secret admirer and begged me to go with her to the meeting place. She said she would be watching the volleyball games."

"That's nice of you."

"I actually refused but then she reminded me that it could be dangerous to meet a stranger by herself."

Okimune whirled about to backpedal down the hall.

"It is true. Especially if the girl wants to reject him. Things can get ugly."

"Yea. Some guys can't handle rejection. I've heard of girls getting raped after trying to turn a guy down."

"That would suck to be raped by a guy of a different species."

"Better than being killed. But if I were raped, I would prefer a tengu to do it."

Chousei snickered at her friend's comment as they walked by the other library door. They turned to the right, starting through the empty cafeteria towards the auditorium doors. They could hear the cheer of the crowd through the auditorium doors.

"Can you even call it rape at that point?"

"It sucks that Ritsu didn't get pregnant. Now they're using condoms."

"Most guys are reluctant to get a girl pregnant, Ms. Umou."

"Yea. Especially in high school."

"But Ritsu is so pretty. And Mr. Ichida is handsome. They'd have beautiful babies."

"It sounds like they're still playing. That should mean that we have won at least one set."

"Hopefully so. It would be nice to win against one of the big schools this season."

"Will Ms. Kurono have to start calling you big sister?"

Okimune giggled at Chousei.

"I'm not like my cousin."

"I'm surprised that your cousin didn't try to recruit me into her club."

"Didn't Kaede ask you?"

Kurumu grinned at Kanari, nodding.

"She did. It's just that Ms. Odayakana seemed to like me. I thought she would try to change my mind."

Okimune giggled, stopping in front of the door which opened up into the middle of the auditorium. They could hear the chants of the cheerleaders and the crowd quite clearly.

"My lazy cousin is not known for her effort."

"To be honest, Ms. Nemoto was a good enough reason to stay away."

"Ms. Nemoto is a pleasant young lady."

Kurumu smirked at Okimune's insincere pout.

"She's an uppity bitch. She'd give me more grief than Tora does over my relationship decisions."

"You do move a little fast."

Kurumu smiled at Kanari. The girl's face was so close to hers. Those lips were tempting to kiss.

"Maybe my mother was part harpy."

"Don't joke about that."

"I'm serious. She was born in your region. A succubus can use any woman with a womb to carry their babies. And harpies seem to like having babies."

"That is true. Are you going to put a baby in Kanari?"

Kurumu immediately released Kanari though the harpy remained latched to her side. She wagged a finger at Umou.

"Of course not! Carrying a baby succubus has some risks."

"I'm sure that Ms. Kurono wouldn't ask that of me. At least not before I reach my dream."

"I wouldn't ask that of you anyways. I want you to have your own babies."

"Baby talk aside, I suggest you two detach. Ms. Kurono has enough rumors floating around about her."

Kanari pouted but relinquished her hold when Okimune opened the door for them. Before the girl could fully pull away, Kurumu grabbed her by the hand and tugged her along into the auditorium. The other girls giggled, following them inside.

The number of fans on the left side of the court surprised Kurumu. She was used to seeing no more than two dozen people rooting for the visiting team. There had to be at least a hundred people here with no seat unclaimed. It almost made the comment of home court advantage irrelevant.

She shook her head in disbelief, walking behind the crowd towards the right side of the gym. She was used to the home side being standing room only. Many students had nothing better to do and this was free entertainment if you avoided the concession stand. And with it being a weekday, it was far more convenient to walk to campus than to Mononoke.

"Hitsumi!"

Shiname Nureto stood at the end of the court, beckoning to them. His carefully trimmed cornflower blue locks were styled in a faux hawk. He was in the company of Mizudake whom had her arms crossed and was regarding their approach with an indignant look. She randomly turned her nose away with a huff.

"Is she upset at us?"

Kurumu giggled, squeezing Kanari's hand.

"No. She's upset at Okimune."

Kurumu came to a stop in front of the guy whom only offered her a look before his mint eyes fixed upon his girlfriend. He held out his arms which Okimune took the invitation. The girl stepped into his embrace, resting the side of her head against his chest with one arm slipping behind him.

"Nureto. Are you being nice to Yuri?"

"I am and she's still being horrible to me."

"I'm not the one that ditched family and friend to have a fling."

"How is the volleyball team doing?"

Shiname grinned, nodding in the direction of the court.

"We only got here about ten minutes ago. It's the middle of the fourth set and we're winning."

"How did we do in the other sets?"

"We just got here, Kurono. This dummy insisted on standing in the back where I can't see anything just so that he could see his girlfriend enter the room."

"I didn't force you to stand back here with me. You could have hung out with Ms. Taniguchi."

"Nope. You deserve to be punished. No lovey date for you."

"Oh dear. She's torturing us with her company. What ever should we do?"

Shiname grinned, giving Okimune a squeeze.

"We could try things that would embarrass her into leaving."

"I suspect that I would be too embarrassed to do whatever it is you have in mind."

"Can we at least go to the front now? Short girls have issues with crowds."

"Does that sound appealing to you?"

"I'm fine right here."

Kurumu snickered, doubting she would get any answers here. Squeezing Kanari's hand, she walked around the couple.

"Well I'm heading to the front. Are you coming with?"

Mizudake huffed a response, striking a stoic pose. Guessing that was her answer, Kurumu steered Kanari along the sidelines to the front of the spectator section. The other first year girls tagged along.

She was in time to witness Makiba slamming the ball to the opposing side of the net where it hit the floor uncontested by the girls in black tank tops and black bloomers. Referee whistles sounded and the scoreboard on the table near the center of the court was incremented to sixteen and twelve. The ball was tossed back to the thick girl wearing the mint green top and red bloomers of Yokai Academy. From her distant vantage, Kurumu surmised that those golden characters on the opposing team's tops was most likely the school name just like the crimson lettering was for their team.

A cursory glance gave Kurumu a feel for the home team situation. The big Iwadake would be the next to serve and Sazayama had been the server before Makiba. Hibiki was in the last back row spot. The three second years were in the front row with Nazenara poised to leave with the next rotation. The trio of gyokuto first years would follow up Iwadake with Meisai being first in that line up.

The next serve by Makiba was returned. Hibiki bumped it up nicely for the silvery blue haired Uta to set. Nazenara hopped up and stuffed it down in the pocket between two of the opposing girls in the front row, causing whistles to blow. It was one more point for the home team.

Kurumu turned her attention on the home crowd, lifting up on her toes. She saw a bunch of familiar students and quickly dismissed their presence. She wished that Yarimizu had thought about making herself more visible like Shiname had.

"There are so many visitors here."

Kurumu nodded at Umou's remark as the sides changed with the ball being turned over to Shimote.

"Yea. It is a big school."

"Did they bring extra buses for all of those fans?"

"They must have. I doubt that the Headmaster would let random visitors through the barrier."

"True. Have we hosted any of the big schools for other sports? I don't recall seeing a crowd like this."

"Well I've only been to one track meet. You'd have to ask someone else."

The whistle sounded again. Nazenara hopped off the court as the ball was tossed to Iwadake. The score was now eighteen to thirteen.

"Do you think we won two of the sets already?"

"Well if we win this one, we definitely will have two wins."

Iwadake's serve was terrible, awarding Shimote another point and forcing another rotation. The ball was bounced over to a butch, buxom girl whom looked like she could crack walnuts with a flex of her biceps. Her bright orange hair was swept up like a broom, reminding Kurumu of Yougan.

Deciding the game was more interesting than Yarimizu's problems, Kurumu watched the butch girl make her first serve. It was a hard hit, sailing over the right into Sazayama. The girl got a bad bump, sending it out of bounds with a point being awarded to Shimote.

"Come on. Go Yokai!"

Kurumu echoed Umou's cry which the cheerleaders and crowd chimed in. The butch girl grunted as she sent another ball over the net. Makiba took the bump this time which was nicely set by Kirisame. Hibiki did an okay spike but the ponytailed girl on the other side got under it. The blond beside that girl knelt down to loft it up with her fingertips, allowing a messy haired brunette with bangs covering her eyes to spike it down between Uta and Kirisame. The score was updated to read eighteen to sixteen.

"Get that ball back!"

"Go Yokai!"

"Gold and Black, Attack!"

"Fight, Shimote, Fight!"

Kurumu smirked at the cheers of the opposing team's squad. She just now realized that all of the Yokai cheerleaders were either on this side or doing tricks on the stage. The Shimote cheerleader squad had frilly gold skirts and mini black tops. Each buxom girl was holding a set of black and gold pompoms.

Whistles sounded, bringing Kurumu's attention back to the game. Shimote had snagged another point, threatening to take the lead.

"Come on! Get a point!"

Chousei giggled at Utachi's desperate plea.

"This is kind of nerve wracking."

"Yea. This might be our last set."

The butch girl cried out as she struck the ball again, sending it over the net. Iwadake got the bump which Hibiki followed up with a set. Makiba stepped up for a massive spike which the blond in the front row took to the face. As the girl fell to the floor, the other girls scrambled but failed to stop the ball's descent.

The crowd cheered as whistles sounded, prompting the home team to rotate. Uta pranced off the court as Meisai hurried to the serving position.

"Ms. Kurono!"

Kurumu grimaced at the sound of Yarimizu's voice. She really wanted to watch this game now.

"Ms. Kurono."

She sighed, turning her attention upon the girl trotting to her side. She saw Nagisa standing up on a chair in the middle of the crowd, waving to her with an impish grin.

"Is it already six?"

"I have no idea. But we should go."

Kurumu watched as Meisai put a good serve over the net which was bumped by the butch girl. The girls got it back over but Sazayama blocked the attempt. Another point was given to Yokai Academy, making the score twenty to seventeen.

"Can't we wait till the game is over?"

"I'd rather not."

"Did we win one or two sets?"

"Two. We got destroyed in the first set, but the last two were both real close. One went all the way into the thirties."

"Are we doing that good or is Shimote just having a bad game?"

"I have no idea. This team is entirely different than the one we played for the second set."

"Really?"

"Mhm. Every set has been against a different team. It's crazy."

Kurumu could only shake her head in disbelief. Yokai had picked up another point during the chat, leaving them four points away from victory.

"Only a big school would do something like that."

"They may be doing it to give their younger girls some game experience. It's hard to say without knowing how old these girls are."

Supposing it would not matter if their team lost here, Kurumu let go of Kanari's hand.

"I guess we can go meet your admirer. We'll be right back."

Kanari nodded as the other girls wished Yarimizu good luck. Kurumu followed the undine back down the sidelines to where Shiname and Okimune were cuddling. Mizudake was still pouting indignantly as they slipped around the couple and made their way back to the doors in the middle of the auditorium. It was not long before they were inside the cafeteria, walking away from the cheering crowd.

"How was your choir performance?"

"Much better than the one I had for track."

Yarimizu giggled as they crossed the empty room.

"I heard about that. Have you decided which club you will join?"

"Already did. Mrs. Tomarigi had an application so I filled it out."

"Just like that?"

"Mhm. I knew deep down that it was never going to be gymnastics."

"Those two will be so disappointed."

They walked around the corner and Yarimizu paused, regarding the door to the library. She sucked in a deep breath, placing her hand on the door.

"Well this is it. I hope this is painless."

Kurumu's heart fluttered as Yarimizu drew open the door. Normally it would be locked but the doors had been busted up when the library got trashed during the chaos caused by the mirror. The repair crew had replaced the doors but they had not fixed the locking mechanisms or replaced the bookshelves since this area was being used as temporary classrooms. At least Ms. Bakudai with the assistance of her literature club had finished putting all of the books back into the damaged stacks.

As Kurumu sauntered into the dark, spacious room, her body was assaulted by sexual interest. She could hear someone moving hastily before Yarimizu flipped the light switch.

Kurumu laughed as a familiar young man stood proudly atop one of the surviving tables in this spacious room which was divided by movable partitions. She felt silly for not thinking about this dork from Kokoa's homeroom as a possible suspect. His hungry mint eyes left Kurumu's body to gaze upon Yarimizu. His indigo hair was trimmed short and neat.

"My beloved water lily! I surmise that Ms. Kurono is here by your request."

"It was you?!"

"Do you know him?"

Yarimizu smiled thinly at Kurumu.

"Sort of. He was visiting the library almost every day back in October."

Numasaki Fumio clenched his fist and closed his eyes with a serious nod.

"And then the tragic conclusion of the cultural festival occurred, depriving me of a convenient setting from which I could admire your beauty."

"How did you convince your cousin to help you deliver those letters?"

"Cousin?"

"This is Numasaki Fumio. His cousin is one of Taniguchi's friends from class nine."

"That bitch! I asked her if she knew anything about those letters."

"Please don't find fault with Ayame. She was doing a favor for me."

"It slipped my mind that this dummy lives on the same floor as Kamitsuku."

Numasaki nodded with a genuine look of regret.

"An unfortunate situation indeed."

"You could have owned up to it instead of letting then torture Kamitsuku."

"I'd rather not trouble myself in their affairs."

"But it was your fault!"

"How would it be any better if those savages were tormenting me?"

"Because Kamitsuku didn't deserve that."

"No man should be punished for expressing his love. What happened to Mr. Yamabato was unfortunate but not my fault. I have already apologized to him."

Kurumu sighed, looking to Yarimizu for support. The girl's eyes were locked upon Numasaki and her lips were turned in a thoughtful way.

"How did you convince Ayame to help you out?"

"We are blood, Ms. Kurono. It's not like I asked for her help to commit a crime."

"I thought you were worried that she would ruin your chances with the library girls."

Numasaki chuckled nervously, glancing aside.

"Well every person has some stories from their youth which they would prefer to remain a secret. Those girls might discourage my water lily from agreeing to a relationship."

"I'm not your water lily, Mr. Numasaki."

"I'm sorry, Ms. Yarimizu. I'm nervous and getting ahead of myself. I suppose that the poems I sent to you were not appreciated."

"It was creepy. It felt like something Yamabato would do since he was obsessed with me."

"Again, I apologize. But in my defense, Mr. Yamabato never gave any indication of having feelings for you. I had no idea that you two shared a significant past."

Yarimizu blushed, holding her hands up defensively.

"It wasn't like that. We were just friends but one day he decided that we should be more. I couldn't allow that. I was already not supposed to be seeing him."

"What do you mean by that?"

Yarimizu smiled apologetically at Kurumu.

"One of our friends told my parents about me hanging out with Yamabato. I was actually meeting up with him in secret since the start of junior high."

"You have feelings for him."

"No! It was just…"

The girl paused with a whimper. She fidgeted with a pained expression.

"He was always alone. An outcast. You must know that Umishiro is an exclusive undine village. I felt sorry for him. I didn't want him in that way. But I didn't want him to be alone."

Kurumu was about to accuse the girl of treating Kamitsuku like a charity case when she felt the subtle interest of another man. She glanced at the partition, realizing that someone was hiding behind it.

"Ms. Yarimizu. I know this might be difficult for you to reciprocate, but I strongly wish for you to be my girlfriend. Could you humor my request?"

Yarimizu bit her lip, regarding the young man.

"Could I have time to think about it? I'd prefer to learn more about you from your cousin."

"I wouldn't claim her to be a reliable source of information."

"Yet you turned to her for help."

"I groveled for her to help me, Ms. Kurono. I gambled on the chance that she might take pity on me."

"She's going to find out your childhood secrets. Nagisa won't stay silent for your sake."

"I'll definitely be asking Ms. Taniguchi about it when we go back to the gym."

"I'm wondering if his embarrassing story involves Ayame. It might be why she helped him."

The way he flinched caught Kurumu's attention. She grinned wide, wagging a finger at him.

"It is, isn't it?"

"It's not what you're thinking."

"I bet you two were all lovey dovey as kids. It sometimes happens with cousins the same age. Some even get married."

"That happens?"

"Cousins can marry if the parents are okay with it."

He sighed heavily, slouching his shoulders.

"My family had very little to do with Ayame's. I barely even talked with her before junior high."

"But she went to the same elementary school as you."

"Yes and my mother is a teacher in Ikinakawa. Whenever I tried to socialize with Ayame, I was scolded."

Kurumu nodded thoughtfully at his revelation.

"Is this because her father is human?"

"How would you know that?"

"We've heard all about Ms. Numasaki's troubles in junior high. How Ms. Taniguchi was kissing her to give her air since she had not developed her lungs for living in an underwater city. And how everyone thought those two were in a relationship because of that."

"Mhm. Her decision to practice the flute had nothing to do with improving her kissing."

Numasaki smiled softly.

"The flute was my suggestion. And it got her into the band so we could actually behave like relatives. I was always curious about her since my parents were so adamant that I should have nothing to do with her. She was just a normal girl. I never understood it."

The fondness in which he spoke about his cousin made Kurumu suspicious.

"What did you do to her?"

"Nothing! I did nothing!"

"You can either tell us or we'll find out from Nagisa."

Numasaki sighed, hanging his head in defeat.

"Ms. Taniguchi was not the only person helping Ayame with her breathing. I also participated in that, though we were far more secretive about it. Most girls didn't know about it until after it was over."

"That's not so bad. You were helping."

"No, Ms. Yarimizu. I was helping but I was also getting to kiss a girl. A forbidden girl. And she kept it secret from the others so it made it even more taboo."

"Were you making out?"

"Of course not! I didn't dare to! These were innocent kisses."

"But other girls found out. So you had to quit."

Numasaki groaned at Kurumu's conclusion. He backed up on the table, hopping down to the floor.

"Not exactly. When Ayame told me that she didn't need my help, I did something stupid. I grabbed her and kissed her like I had always wanted to. In her panic, she drew the attention of some of our peers. Word spread quickly in the school that I had assaulted her. No girl would even talk to me after that."

Kurumu smirked, tempted to say that he deserved that.

"Do you still have feelings for her?"

Numasaki smiled ruefully at Yarimizu's inquiry, glancing aside.

"Yes. But my parents would never allow it. Ayame feels guilty for this becoming public knowledge. It wasn't hard at all to get her to help me. The groveling was just to make her feel better about it."

"You're a dork."

"I've been called much worse, Ms. Kurono. And now that you know the truth, I won't be surprised if Ms. Yarimizu decides I'm not good enough for her."

Kurumu had never thought highly of this guy to begin with. She glanced at Yarimizu, unsure which of these two was the worse character. The girl smiled softly.

"I've spent weeks thinking those poems were from a close friend I gave up on years ago. This made me realize how I've never properly let that go. I sympathize with your feelings of being with someone your parents don't approve of. But I can't be your water lily."

"I understand. Would one of your friends give me a chance?"

"Oh my God!"

"It's a fair question, Ms. Kurono. I can't claim possession of some deep understanding of Ms. Yarimizu. I wanted to start our love here but if that is not an option, I would welcome an alternative."

Kurumu shook her head in disbelief, looking at the partition. She wondered if their guest approved of this revelation. She was fairly sure she knew whom this eavesdropper was.

"I guess I could introduce you to Chisui. You could help her get over her brother fetish."

"Chisui? Is this your friend from the literature club?"

"Mhm. Putting the moves on your cousin pales in comparison to what she's pulled with her brother."

"I'll make it my duty to save her from that disastrous attraction."

Kurumu smirked at his firm tone.

"You gave up on this rather quickly."

"A starving man must eat something."

Yarimizu grinned, holding her hand out.

"Come with me. She's in the gym right now."

Numasaki took her hand. Yarimizu started for the door but paused when Kurumu remained in place.

"Are you coming with?"

"In a moment. I'll turn off the lights for you."

Yarimizu frowned at Kurumu but resumed her walk to the door with Numasaki in tow.

"Okay. We'll be waiting for you so don't just leave campus without telling us."

Kurumu sounded an acknowledgment as the couple left. She sucked in a deep breath, taking in the silence of the environment after the door closed.

"Are you satisfied with how it turned out?"

Kamitsuku stepped around the edge of the partition.

"I can't say that I know what I wanted to happen. But thank you for not letting Eika know I was here."

Kurumu thumbed at the door as Kamitsuku strolled over to her.

"I take it that you spoke with that dummy."

"Yea. I had to know whom this admirer was. We had a few words."

Kurumu stepped in close, wrapping the stocky boy up in a hug. He timidly returned the embrace as she squeezed him tight.

"Sorry about this. I know her accusations of you stalking her really hurt."

He gripped her more firmly, letting out a deep breath.

"Yea. I'm used to it."

She held him close for a long moment. Then he started having naughty thoughts. She giggled, letting her grip go lax as she stepped back in the embrace. He took the hint, letting go of her.

"I'm sure that you'll find a girlfriend eventually. A girl whom cares more about your feelings than the values of prejudiced parents."

"I won't hold my breath."

Kurumu smirked. She turned on her heel and sashayed towards the door, quite aware of how much he approved of her walk.

"I thought your kind was good at holding your breath."

"It varies. I'm quite intrigued with this girl with the human father."

Kurumu paused at the door, grinning at him.

"Already looking for a new love interest?"

He smirked, turning off the lights.

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

She giggled, slipping out into the hall and gesturing for him to follow.

"Come with me to the gym. We can make those two squirm while they try to push that weasel onto poor Utsumi. Even if she does have a thing for her brother, she deserves better."

He chuckled, closing the door behind him.

"Doesn't that defeat the purpose of me hiding through all of that?"

"You don't have to say anything. Just stand there and let her worry."

Kamitsuku snickered, gesturing for her to go.

"Fine. But this was your idea."