Kurumu hummed happily as she placed the fillets upon the skillet. She wiggled her hips to the tune in her head, feeling extra sexy in this clingy maid outfit.
"Muneno kaneno otowo narashite yo. Setsunai hodono houyouto kisu de."
"Could you not?"
Kurumu giggled at Kokoa's complaint. The vampire was seated at the table behind the couch, perusing her English course material. Kurumu grinned, scooting the fillets about in the sizzling pan.
"Arawa ni kokoro wo sarashite yo. Zutto futari de iraretara ii. Itsumo futari de iraretara ii."
"Didn't you sing enough karaoke yesterday?"
"No such thing. Wake birthday girl up again."
"Why don't you slip her some tongue? She won't sleep through that."
Kurumu smirked, setting the spatula aside. She stepped up on the kitchen stool to reach the plates and glasses in the upper cabinets. She grabbed three of each, placing them on the counter.
"The only person kissing her on her birthday should be her fiancé."
"Assuming he is going to kiss her."
"Of course he will. Now wake her up. It won't take me long to finish making this breakfast."
Kokoa sighed dramatically, setting aside her textbook as Kurumu checked the rice cooker. It still had eight minutes, meaning the salmon would be ready first. Since it took about twenty minutes to make enough rice for three, Kurumu had gotten into the habit of starting it before putting on her maid attire.
"Hey! Popsicle! Wake up!"
There was a thud, drawing Kurumu's attention. Kokoa snickered, leaning over the back of the couch.
"What just happened?"
"Nothing. Are you up?"
Mizore grumbled an unintelligible response. Kokoa huffed, flopping back down beside her textbook.
"Stop massaging your crotch. It looks weird."
Mizore grunted, lifting up into view. Her purple hair was a tangle mess, sticking up in all of the wrong places. Despite Kokoa's scolding, the snow girl continued to rub her groin through the pink chemise hanging off her pale shoulders. Mizore yawned, bending down to grab her schoolbag.
"Happy birthday, Mizore."
Mizore grumbled incoherently, hauling her schoolbag up by its strap. She shuffled over to the open bathroom door, disappearing from sight.
Supposing that was the only answer she would get for now, Kurumu pranced over to the oven to check on the fillets. She promptly flipped each of them over.
"Is Moka finally opening up to her classmates?"
"You could ask her yourself."
"She'll just ignore me or tell me it's not important."
"Because it's not."
Kurumu sighed, resting the spatula on the oven as she turned about to face Kokoa.
"She doesn't have to be Hatsue. None of us are demanding that of her."
"Other than a few comments about her hair, nobody is gossiping about how different she is now. You both are fussing over nothing."
"But their personalities are so different."
"A few girls have mentioned that she doesn't smile as much. I told those girls that we have some family matters that are troubling Moka. It's not like anybody thinks she's a different person now. Those two tengu girls she sits with don't mind the change at all."
Kurumu smiled softly, feeling a touch of sadness. Hatsue was no longer in control but none of the girls noticed. It was not even like Kiki and Michiko were unimportant acquaintances. Moka had tagged along on many of Tora's flying sessions.
"Do you think Moka is sad?"
"Is our breakfast burning?"
Kurumu huffed at the change of topic, turning to the stove. The fillets looked perfectly fine as she turned off the burner. She scooped the first fillet out of the skillet with the spatula, dumping it on a plate before doing the same to the other two.
"It must make her sad to think that nobody can tell the difference between her and Hatsue."
"This is what everybody wanted."
Kurumu sighed, setting the spatula aside. She grabbed the tea kettle and started filling the tumblers.
"Nobody wanted Hatsue to be forgotten."
There was a brief moment of silence in which Kurumu poured out the tea. The rice cooker had two more minutes to go.
"Have you talked with Hatsue this week?"
Kurumu smiled softly, hearing the toilet flush.
"The last time I talked with her was when we saw the Headmaster after getting back from Yukimura."
"Yea. That was the last time I talked with her too."
"Are you scared to talk to her?"
Kokoa snorted, shaking her head.
"No. I just don't want to ask that brat to take something out of her bra."
Kurumu laughed, watching the seconds on the rice cooker diminish.
"I'm terrified. I feel like I'll forget to say something and it will be my last time to talk to her."
"Well we better do it soon. Mother's vision of Shirayuki collapsing will happen before we leave school. I got some things that I need to say to that airhead before that happens."
The rice cooker sounded the completion of its task. Kurumu dragged the rice cooker out and popped the top, fetching the scoop.
"I know it's Mizore's birthday, but I think I should do it today."
Kokoa grunted a response as Kurumu portioned out the rice onto the three plates. It only took her a few seconds to finish her task. Grabbing two of the plates, she sashayed over to the table, setting one down in front of Kokoa while placing the other across the table from Kokoa.
"I'm not eating this with my fingers."
Kurumu smirked, hopping back up to her feet. She hurried back to the counter, tugging out the drawer to fetch three sets of chopsticks. Grabbing two of the tumblers, she returned to the table.
"It's the first time that I'm not out there handing out papers."
Kokoa huffed, taking the chopsticks from Kurumu.
"Why should I care?"
Kurumu sighed, placing the tumblers next to the plates. She sauntered back to the counter to fetch her own meal.
"I'm feeling a little left out, Kokoa. You're supposed to be nice to me."
"You quit that stupid club because your boyfriend told you to. Take it up with him if you want someone to comfort you."
Kurumu clucked her tongue as she headed back to the table with her breakfast. She knelt in front of the table on Kokoa's right, setting the plate on the table. She promptly started to slice up her salmon with her chopsticks. The fillet came apart with almost no effort.
"I would if I could. But he has exams the rest of the week and will most likely refuse to see me. It might be another week before I'm allowed to be in his presence."
"That's your own fault for not behaving when you're around him."
Mizore yawned grandly as she shuffled out of the bathroom with her school blouse thrown over her torso and her skirt fastened about her waist. The snow girl had not bothered buttoning up, leaving her sports bra bared and her hair a frazzled mess. She dropped her schoolbag over the side of the couch before plopping down at the table in front of her plate.
"Good morning, Mizore. How does it feel to be sixteen?"
Mizore grumbled, picking up her chopsticks with her eyes fixated on the meal.
"Is this edible?"
"It's high quality salmon. Even someone with her mediocre skills would have trouble messing it up."
Kurumu huffed, picking up a morsel and stuffing it in her mouth.
"You'll need to fix your hair."
Mizore grunted an acknowledgment, daintily placing a wad of salmon in her mouth. She stared off absently as she chewed. Kurumu smiled softly, swallowing down her mouthful.
"What do you think?"
Mizore nodded, fetching another piece. Kurumu smiled, supposing that would have to do.
"Does the birthday girl have any requests for today?"
"Kisses would be nice."
"I told you to wake her up with one."
Kurumu waved her chopsticks at Kokoa dismissively before grabbing up another chunk of salmon.
"I'm sure that she's meaning a kiss from Umizake. They had no alone time yesterday."
"You don't need to be alone to kiss."
Kurumu smirked, chewing down her tasty morsel.
"You do if you want more than an innocent kiss."
"We can't. It might hurt the baby."
"Don't be silly. Girls can have sex while they are pregnant."
"Let me finish eating before you disgust me with your crude conversation."
Kurumu picked up the last bit of her salmon, wagging it at Kokoa.
"It's no worse than what you do with your girls."
"I don't talk about that stuff while I'm eating."
Kurumu smirked as Kokoa stuffed her mouth with rice.
"Whatever. Your mom would have told us to not let Mizore make love to her fiancé if it was an issue."
"Do you think he wants to?"
Kurumu grinned at Mizore, bringing the morsel up to her lips.
"I had sex on my birthday."
Mizore made a contemplative sound before returning her attention on the meal. Kokoa was done with her meal and Kurumu was halfway through her rice when there was a knock at the door.
"Could you get that?"
Kurumu smiled at Kokoa's request. She hesitated only for a moment, deciding she could finish her rice later. She stood up as Kokoa pushed her plate and emptied tumbler to the center of the table. Kurumu pranced over to the entryway, grabbing the door knob and turning the deadbolt. She eased the door open, grinning upon realizing their guest.
"Good morning, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu opened the door wider, gesturing at the tall young man sporting the PSC jacket.
"Good morning, Umizake. Have you had breakfast?"
Umizake smiled, entering the suite while holding his schoolbag to his side.
"No. I came here right away to wish my fiancée a happy birthday."
Kurumu closed the door behind him, locking it back up. She giggled upon noticing that Mizore was hastily buttoning up her blouse.
"We don't have any leftover rice but I could grill you up a salmon fillet."
"You can have my rice."
Umizake smiled at Mizore's offer. The snow girl finished buttoning up and gestured to her plate.
"If it isn't too much trouble."
"It isn't. Have a seat next to Mizore."
Kurumu slipped around the half wall and sashayed over to the refrigerator as he removed his shoes.
"Thank you for the hospitality."
"You should be thanking me. I'm the one that paid for it."
Kurumu snickered, opening up the refrigerator as Umizake thanked Kokoa for the meal. She snatched out the container with the last salted salmon fillet, letting the door close on its own as she leaned down to fetch the bottle of sesame oil from the cabinet. She sauntered back over to the stove where the kettle and skillet remained on their respective burners. She turned both back on.
"There is a little tea left."
"Water will be fine."
Kurumu nodded, squirting some oil into the skillet and turning the burner to a low setting. Grabbing the spatula, she spread the oil about the surface before turning off the burner with the kettle.
"I see that you're eating some protein. You should also eat half of this rice."
"I'm not that hungry."
"Unless you have trouble keeping it down, you should eat more. I understand that pregnancies are taxing on the body. Our little girl will get her nutrients from your body at your expense if you don't."
Kurumu smirked as Mizore dutifully acquiesced to his instruction. She watched the skillet in the corner of her eye, waiting for the oil to sizzle.
"Moka has been nagging her for days to eat better."
"Seeing her with a carton of ice cream was both nostalgic and alarming. I was glad that she was able to return to her usual routine after all that had happened to her. But my sisters both were worried when I mentioned Mizore's typical diet."
"Sugar is carbs."
Umizake smirked at Mizore.
"Ame recommended cottage cheese. I thought about picking some up last night when I was in town but I don't have a way of storing it."
"Did you buy everything you needed for her party?"
"More or less. I will require your keys."
Mizore sounded an affirmative, quickly getting to her feet. She leaned over the couch, fumbling through her schoolbag. She pulled out her keys, kneeling back down and presenting them to him.
"Thank you. I noticed that Ms. Akashiya isn't with you."
"Yea. She's with Yukari and Kiki, handing out papers to the girls at Baratoge."
"I see. I saw that Mr. Morioka had set up a table on the trail leading to the school. I should have made the connection."
Kurumu smiled, guessing Ginei had set things up similar to the last time though she had not asked for the particulars. She mildly wondered whom had taken hers and Mizore's places.
"What club did you end up joining, Ms. Kurono?"
Kurumu chuckled, noting the oil was starting to bubble. She opened up the container, grabbing the fillet and placing it in the skillet.
"You didn't talk about that yesterday?"
"There was only so much that we could talk about in two hours. I did have to run to Mononoke."
"We mostly talked about his family and mine. I told him that I returned to the drama club."
"Yes. And I have agreed to be her prince."
Kurumu grinned, feeling a mix of happiness and jealousy.
"Well I somehow ended up in two clubs. I'm a member of the choir and was coaxed into taking over the broadcasting club."
"Isn't that the club your mother was in?"
"Yea. Mr. Tashikana was well aware of that and used it against me. I'd be a terrible daughter if I let my dead mother's club fall apart."
"I'm sure the other members of the club will thank you for taking it over."
"Maybe. That's honestly the reason why I was in the teacher's lounge Monday morning. Club presidents have to reapply with the new student council."
"I guess it was good fortune that our paths crossed so quickly."
They shared a brief moment of silence. Kurumu watched the fillet, waiting to flip it.
"Are you going to move in with Shirayuki?"
"I mailed a parental consent form to my mother. I trust Mizore will do the same."
"I included the form in my letter to my parents. I'm going to mail it this morning."
"I hope they are fine with the arrangement."
"I can't see why they would object. I'm so worried about them."
"Don't be. I'm sure that succubus would have told me if any harm had befallen them."
"If the snow priestess is dead…"
Umizake nodded at Mizore's soft statement.
"I doubt that your family will be in any position to arrange that trip you were hoping for. You are more than welcome to stay with me over winter break."
Kurumu noted it was time to turn the fillet. She promptly did so.
"Are you going back home to your mother?"
"I have to. It was clear that Mikoto and Mother don't get along."
"It didn't look that way to me."
"You didn't look beyond the funeral. Things were rather… tense that night and all of Saturday. I can only hope that things got better when Kenta left on Monday."
Kurumu nodded, recalling that Aokigahara was in the same prefecture as Kofu. That meant his niece and nephew might end up attending a high school they competed against.
"Isn't Minato old enough to be in school?"
"I honestly don't know enough about Mikoto's family to say anything with credibility. When my mother insisted upon Mikoto and her whole family leaving, we were told that he was homeschooled. The only thing I know for certain is that Kenta could not watch over my nephew by himself."
"I would like to meet them."
"After all the trouble I went through to find them, they better not skip out on our wedding. I'll convince my mother to pay for their tickets."
Thinking the fillet was cooked well enough, Kurumu turned off the skillet. She hopped up onto the stool, fetching another plate and tumbler from the cabinet. Stepping down, she transferred the fillet to the plate and brought the glass over to the sink to fill it from the tap. With both in hand, she returned to the table and presented the meal to Umizake whom was holding Mizore's chopsticks.
"Thank you."
Kurumu grinned as he took the plate and glass from her. She knelt down before her plate, picking up her chopsticks. She only had two or three bites left.
"Do you want to spend winter break with your fiancé?"
Mizore sighed softly, stacking her empty plate on top of Kokoa's.
"I'd rather check on my parents if I could."
"I thought she was coming with us if her winter break plans fell through."
"That was before we heard about the snow priestess dying."
"That changes nothing, Kurumu. For all we know, they might not even let her return to Yukimura."
"She's right. They might close the border because."
Kurumu frowned at Mizore. She took the time to stuff her mouth full of rice.
"Seriously?"
"The snow priestess is in charge of Yukimura. Until a new snow priestess is selected, nobody would be allowed in or out. It might be why I haven't gotten mail from them."
Kurumu nodded thoughtfully, swallowing down her rice.
"But wouldn't they want you back right away then? You're the next snow priestess."
"No, Ms. Kurono. There was no plan to have her take that role at this age."
"They will have an interim snow priestess. Someone of our family. Maybe even my mother."
Kurumu was about to ask how anyone else from her family could be considered when she remembered that Mizore's family was not the only ones with the Shirayuki name. There were others but Mizore had been selected as the most suitable. Kurumu nodded, gathering up the last vestiges of her rice into a pile. Picking up her plate, she pushed it into her mouth.
"I'm sorry, Mizore. I should have confirmed if the border to Yukimura was open."
"It's not your fault. Your memories were tampered."
"Yes. And most likely your family's memories have been too. Even if you could return, don't expect them to think kindly about Mr. Aono."
"She shouldn't go back home if they're all brainwashed. We need Mother to sort this out. You're either coming with us or with your man."
Mizore smiled softly, glancing at Umizake.
"I'm scared to meet your family."
"Well it won't be my whole family. With the wedding canceled, Asatsuya won't return for the holidays."
"I'll stay with Kurumu."
"Now that that's settled, you need to do dishes and get dressed."
Kurumu smirked at Kokoa as she stacked her plate on top of the others.
"Yes, Milady."
"I could do the dishes for you."
"It's her chore. It's not like we're going to be late for anything."
Kurumu grinned, picking up the plates and the tumblers.
"You should focus on your fiancée on her special day."
"Thank you, Ms. Kurono. And the meal is delicious."
Her heart fluttered at the compliment as she turned on her heel. She carried the dishes over to the sink.
"Bring your dishes over to me when you're finished."
Umizake sounded an affirmative as Kurumu placed the stack inside the sink. She hopped over to the stove, grabbing the skillet and spatula to add to the pile. She turned on the faucet and snatched up the sponge, quickly scrubbing the plates clear of debris.
"If your room transfer request is approved, where will the school have the two of you live?"
"I believe there are several vacant doubles in the suites."
"Seems silly to have her move her stuff to a double when you two could share her room."
Kurumu snickered at Kokoa's remark as she opened up the dishwasher to arrange the plates on the rack.
"If that's the case, he could just move in with her now. It's not like the school checks on us."
"If Mizore has no objections, I could do that tomorrow."
"Um… sure. If you think that's safe."
"It will be fine, Mizore. And thank you again for the meal, Ms. Shuzen."
As Kurumu scrubbed the skillet, Umizake got to his feet. He strolled over to her side, setting the plate down on the counter beside the sink.
"Could you put the table away for us?"
He nodded, stalking off to handle the table while she finished up the skillet. She added it to the racks of the dishwasher before rinsing out all of the tumblers with a quick scrub inside. In moments she had all of the dishes on the rack and turned off the faucet. She snatched the dishwasher soap from beneath the sink, adding a dollop to the compartment before closing it up and spinning the dials.
Drying her hands on her white apron, Kurumu drifted over to the closet. She slipped inside, shutting the door and turning on the light. This maid outfit was not the easiest to remove since the interior fit her like a velvety bodysuit. Eventually she got the silly thing off, standing nude in the closet as she wiggled her arms free of the long sleeves. After shaking the garment out, she hung it up next to the other one.
She padded over to her pile of lingerie which had her black boyshorts with the white hearts on top. She stepped into the cotton panties, dragging them up over her curls and smoothing the lacy hem about her waist. Satisfied with the snug fit, she picked up her black lace bra, slinging it on like a vest. She brought the cups together, hooking the front clasps. With the bra secure, she tucked her breasts to fit more comfortably inside the cups and fixed her straps.
Having worn jackets these last two days, Kurumu felt she should wear a sweater vest today. Her thoughts wandered as she slipped her arms into the long sleeves of a school blouse and started buttoning up.
The outside world had problems she would rather not deal with. Fujisaki probably had access to Alucard by now. There was a good chance that Akua and Deshi were dead. That troubled her heart. The memory of those two playing on their handhelds at the garden. They were just girls having fun.
It was only a matter of time before he came after Moka. And the High Court would probably be calling for Tsukune's head. Would it even be safe for Tsukune to go home to his family over winter break?
Kurumu sighed as she fixed her skirt and smoothed out her sweater vest. They needed to have a serious talk about this. But it could wait until after Mizore's birthday. Kurumu grabbed up a pair of socks as she wandered over to the door.
"Hey, Kokoa. Do you think we could spend the winter break in Iromori?"
"Why do you want to stay there?"
Kurumu wandered back out into the main room, noting that Kokoa was leaning against the couch and that the table had been put away. Kurumu clutched the pair of socks to her bosom as she sauntered over to Moka's desk where her schoolbag rested.
"Because that has to be more fun than spending three weeks at your Estate. The town looked like it had as much stuff to do as Mononoke."
"I guess we could do that. The hospital is in Iromori."
"Yea. Since you insist upon me having that operation."
"Because you keep summoning your ghost mom to haunt us."
Kurumu straightened up after putting on her socks. She opened up her journal's secret compartment to fetch her earrings. As she lacked a color to match black, she picked the yellow citrine studs.
"That hasn't happened for weeks."
"I should put this letter in the mail."
"I'll go with you."
"Yea, go ahead. I'll be right behind you."
Umizake followed Mizore to the door as Kurumu put her earrings in. Kokoa lingered in the room, waiting on Kurumu while the other two headed out. As always, Kurumu struggled with her right lobe.
"You could have gone with the others. I have keys."
"Are you feeling better?"
Kurumu frowned as she finished putting on her earrings. She picked up her schoolbag, slinging the strap over her head. She adjusted the strap to fit between her breasts.
"About what?"
"Mother said that you died if you had the operation. That's why you haven't had it yet."
"I feel no different than before."
"You have to be better. You've barely had contact with Aono."
Kurumu nodded, starting towards the door which prompted Kokoa to follow her.
"Yea. I do feel better not being around him. And being with our friends at school helps."
"I want you to have that operation. I feel like if anyone close to you died, your heart might break."
Kurumu shivered, pausing in the entryway to slip on her shoes. Straightening up, she grabbed the door by the knob. She twisted it and pushed the door open.
"That won't happen. Let's catch up with the others."
Kokoa followed her outside, closing the door behind them. Kurumu waited for Kokoa to lock up the door before they walked over to the commissary. They only had to wait a few seconds before Umizake and Mizore exited the building, joining them on the trail leading away from the suites.
As Mizore pulled out one of her suckers from her schoolbag, Umizake draped his arm over her shoulder. Kurumu felt the chill caused by Mizore's anxiety. The snow girl occasionally had trouble with Kurumu's affections so it was no surprise that Umizake's proximity unsettled her. After unwrapping her sucker, she stuffed it into her mouth.
"Hey, Mizore. Do you want to eat with Nozomi's group today?"
"I'd like it if Nerume was with us."
"I would also like to join you."
Mizore smiled softly at his statement, drawing the stick to the corner of her mouth as she nodded.
"Nozomi is Ms. Bikiyama from class one, correct?"
"Yes. I used to live next to her in the dorms."
"I can't say that I've ever formally been introduced to her or her friends. Though I am quite aware of Ms. Uchikawa. Her reputation as a top performing student is well known."
Kurumu snickered as they neared the spot where the trails combined.
"I didn't think you were that aware of your peers."
"I do pay attention to the class rankings."
"You need to focus on your studies. I want both you and Hotaru to get your names on the board."
"I know, I know. I need to at least work on my English."
"You better not be goofing off at all of these sleepovers you have planned for this week. I'm making our Friday night sleepover into a study session."
"Well Tora is coming over tomorrow night so she's bound to make us study. And Mikomi won't be any different since that is the weekend before exams."
"Shall Mizore be joining you on these outings?"
Kurumu smiled at him as they turned to the right, taking the trail to the main school path.
"I don't know if I can invite her to Mikomi's sleepover. Do you want to join us tomorrow night?"
The temperature dipped as Mizore glanced up at Umizake. He towered over Mizore, standing almost a full one ninety centimeters to her one fifty five.
"If he's moving in tomorrow, shouldn't I be with him?"
"I don't have to spend that night with you."
"We should try though. See if it works."
They walked several seconds in silence. Kurumu recognized the trio of seniors ahead of them since they were all from the gymnastics club. The tiny girl with the curled bob was Yawarakai while the buxom girl with the oily black curls was Makitoru. Those two seniors were from the Tsunan area and lived together in the suites. Being a gyokuto, Makitoru was wearing a sweater vest over her bountiful curves.
The third brunette with the pixie cut was Shiawase Kiko, former president of the club. She had her school jacket open while Yawarakai wore hers closed like most girls. As they neared the point where this trail ended at the main school path, Kurumu could hear Ginei's voice.
"Come on, ladies. Don't be shy. I can't keep these thongs for myself."
Kurumu smirked, shaking her head when they arrived at the main school path. The gymnastics girls were making their way to the table Ginei had set up. For some reason, Miyamoto and Huang were aiding in Ginei's paper distribution efforts. Miyamoto was still wearing his karate gi from last night while Huang was dressed in his usual attire. Ginei had his school jacket open with the top buttons of his shirt undone, baring his silver wolf head pendant.
"I'm going to say hi to Ginei. I'll catch up later."
They exchanged a halfhearted farewell as Kurumu sauntered off to her left. Her eyes met Ginei's and he flashed her a fanged grin. She smirked as the older girls giggled while perusing the box of thongs resting on top of his table after acquiring their papers.
"Are you still pushing this silly thong agenda?"
The trio of seniors looked up with flush cheeks, grinning yet their eyes betrayed concern of judgment.
"I have to get rid of them. I have roughly thirty left, though I'm out of mediums and smalls."
Kurumu smirked, coming to a stop as she held out her hand. Ginei promptly handed her a paper as she nodded at Miyamoto.
"How did you get dragged into this?"
"The price for spending the night with him."
"You slept in his room?"
"My room was… occupied."
"Do you care if we take more than one?"
Ginei grinned at Shiawase, shaking his head.
"Help yourselves, ladies. First come, first serve."
"Take two, Chiri."
The tiny girl blushed at Makitoru's encouragement, grabbing a second tiny white thong and stuffing both into her jacket pocket. Kurumu grinned at the trio.
"Don't the three of you have wellness as your elective?"
Shiawase chuckled, tossing a black thong back into the box.
"Yea. We actually have an exam for it."
"But Ms. Tsumugi has classes with the first years today."
Makitoru laughed brightly, backing off a step.
"We have a new teacher giving the exam. Some local woman whom used to work at the hospital."
"Yea. Mrs. Meirowasa. I heard that her daughter is in the PSC."
Kurumu smiled, mildly surprised that Tokori's mother had been called in but it made some sense. The woman's last day of work had been over the weekend.
"Good luck with your exam."
"Thanks. And have a good morning, Ms. Kurono."
The other senior girls echoed Shiawase's sentiment as the trio took off. Kurumu smiled at Miyamoto.
"So is everything good with Megumareta?"
Ginei snickered, slugging Miyamoto's arm.
"No need to be coy, Kurumu. I wouldn't let this guy spend the night without getting a good reason for why his roommate needed to be alone."
"Please don't tease Kami."
"I'll save the torture for after winter break. It will be even better if she gets herself knocked up."
Kurumu smirked, fully aware that it was possible. It was not like Megumareta had planned to have sex so he had creamed Sonoda at least twice. Reeking of sex, the harpy had complained about his baby juices dribbling down her thighs during the walk home.
"Only if you don't do the same to your girl. Where is she anyways?"
Ginei chuckled, gesturing down the trail to the dining hall.
"I have her with Tora and Sangi. In her condition, it wouldn't be wise letting her hang out here with me for more than two hours."
Kurumu snorted, shaking her head as more seniors arrived to take papers from Huang and Miyamoto.
"It's not going to take you two hours to hand out papers."
"You don't seem to understand how the senior exams are working today. The students with sixth period electives are taking their exams at eight. The students with seventh period electives take theirs at ten. That means I have to be out here at least until ten."
Ginei paused to tap a sheet of paper on the table.
"And I have a list of seniors with electives like choir and band whom don't even have an exam. After we wrap things up here, we will be swinging by the suites of these other students and leaving a copy of the paper at their doorstep."
"Don't you two have classes today?"
Miyamoto chuckled, handing papers to a pair of guys from the auto club. Kurumu could not recall their names, only knowing the spiky haired guy had a second year cousin in the auto club.
"It's the day before our exams. Every class will be a study hall."
"Can I go now? I only wanted to meet up with Ms. Kurono."
The two second years flashed Huang feral grins.
"You can have your chat with her but you are not getting out of this."
"We haven't forgotten your crimes against Ms. Sendou."
Kurumu giggled, turning to regard the cowering foreigner.
"I'm guessing that you want to ask about how things went with the Hitsuji sisters."
"What business does he have with Hitsuji?"
Huang held his hands up defensively at Ginei's tone.
"It's only a meeting. I want to get to know Chiyu better."
Miyamoto raised his hands to crack his knuckles.
"I'm concerned that you would take interest in such a perfect little sister."
Kurumu giggled, waving her hand at the older boys in a placating manner.
"Ease off, you two. The girls agreed to meeting up with him."
Huang's eyes lit up in glee.
"They did?! Fantastic. When do they want to meet?"
"I was actually hoping that you had something in mind."
"Can we meet tonight?"
"No way. Today is Mizore's birthday and we're throwing her a party."
"Perhaps I should invite myself to that."
Kurumu wagged her finger at Ginei's grin.
"Don't you have exams tomorrow?"
"I could swing by. Feel her up for old time's sake."
Kurumu huffed at his casual threat of sexual harassment.
"You will do no such thing. Her fiancé is back and they are getting along very nicely."
"Fine. I'll stop by during your lunch hour and wish her a happy birthday."
"We're eating with Akari and Nozomi today. You better not be a nuisance."
"I'll be in and out just as quick as Megumareta was with Sonoda."
Kurumu smirked, shaking her head.
"Behave yourself."
"Can I meet with Chiyu tomorrow morning?"
"You mean like before school?"
"I would like to do this as soon as possible."
"You know that Ryomi has exams tomorrow."
"I could come by as early as six if need be."
Kurumu promptly shook her head at his enthusiasm.
"Please don't. That's way too early for me."
"I recall overhearing that you live by Ms. Sendou. In 317 perhaps."
"No. That's Ms. Chouda's room. Why do you know where Yukari lives?"
Huang shuddered as both Miyamoto and Ginei took interest in this.
"I, uh… she told me."
Kurumu doubted that she would get a straight answer with these two big brothers hovering nearby.
"Well I won't be in my room tomorrow morning anyways. I usually sleep in Moka's suite which is 413. You can stop by our place around seven and we can have a short meet and greet with the sisters."
"That sounds excellent. I shall see you tomorrow morning then."
Kurumu smiled, tapping her bosom with the paper as she backpedaled.
"Cool. Try not to have too much fun helping Ginei with the papers."
Ginei chuckled maliciously while Miyamoto stared coldly at Huang.
"Yes. We'll take good care of him."
"Indeed. We will mold him into an upstanding citizen."
Kurumu snickered, turning on her heel and walking off. Those two had no business saying that.
"How long have you been waiting here?"
Kurumu grinned as she sauntered over to the vending machine where Umizake stood.
"A few minutes. I wasn't keeping track."
Kurumu smirked, balancing her tray with one hand as she grabbed the hundred yen coin from it. Slipping the coin into the slot, she pushed the button for her yuzu juice.
"How was your day?"
"Difficult to focus. My thoughts kept wandering to our plans tonight."
Kurumu nodded, leaning down to fetch her juice from the bin. She placed the can beside her box of yakitori and rice, drifting over to his side.
"Do you want to start setting things up right after lunch?"
"I doubt it will take that long. We could start after she leaves for her club meeting."
Kurumu grinned as Mizore floated over to them. The snow girl smiled nervously, holding a tray which actually had food.
"If we're making her a cake, we will need at least an hour."
"We will have the time. What meal did you pick?"
The temperature notable diminished with Mizore's arrival. The snow girl shyly turned her attention upon the vending machine, dropping in a coin and selecting a green tea.
"It's yakitori. I had her grab the same meal as me."
"Did you have a good day?"
Mizore nodded at him, placing her tea upon her tray. She wandered over to Kurumu's other side.
"You could talk to him."
"I don't know what to say."
"So this is the notorious fiancé."
Nozomi flashed her snaggletooth grin as she stalked over to them, carrying her lunch tray. The okami was wearing slacks today. Her red bow was tied neatly at the collar of her closed jacket.
"Ms. Bikiyama Nozomi, I presume."
"And you're Umizake Aoi. Sorry about your father."
"Thank you. I must confess that I haven't been told much about you."
Nozomi huffed indignantly, punching a button for a coffee.
"Is that so? I guess she doesn't think much of me as a friend."
"I don't talk about other women."
Nozomi snickered, bending over to fetch her drink.
"Oh? Worried that I might steal your man?"
"Maybe. His sister married an okami."
Umizake actually laughed at Mizore's flat remark. Nozomi smirked, wagging her coffee at Mizore as she drifted over to join them.
"Brat. I'll have you know that I'm not the least bit interested in this talking tree."
"I beg your pardon."
"You are way too tall for being that scrawny. You need to put some meat on your bones."
"Unfortunately that is my genetics. My brother is not any stouter than I am."
"I'll fess up that I don't know that much about you either. I only heard about your family today."
Kurumu giggled, nodding. Nerume was making her way over to them. As usual, the tiny kirin had stacked three entrees and two dinner rolls on her tray.
"Good afternoon, Ms. Genzouyaki. I hope your day has been well."
Nerume grinned at Umizake as she closed in on their location.
"It's been nice."
"Better watch out for Genzouyaki. She's desperate for a man."
"No. She has no chance."
Nozomi snickered at Mizore's flat statement as Nerume frowned in confusion.
"Yea. I suppose she wouldn't pass the height restriction."
"What are we talking about?"
"It's nothing, Ms. Genzouyaki. These two are implying that you would have an interest in dating me."
Nerume snorted, setting her tray on the floor so that she could make her drink selection.
"I'm not that desperate."
Umizake smiled as Nerume punched a button for strawberry milk. Nozomi giggled, bumping against him.
"You're a cool guy in my book. Not many guys would be willing to take care of another man's kid."
Umizake stiffened as Nerume picked up her tray and drink.
"I believe you are mistaken, Ms. Bikiyama. The baby is mine."
Nozomi smirked at his serious expression.
"No reason to get all defensive. It was just a joke."
"Mr. Aono will have nothing to do with this child."
Kurumu shook her head emphatically at Nozomi's puzzled look.
"It was a joke, Umizake. Mizore has been telling people for weeks about being pregnant."
"Because I am pregnant."
"Not helping. Nozomi. You can't take either of these two seriously."
"There's no point hiding this, Ms. Kurono. Short of Mizore going back to her baggy clothing, the other students will eventually realize that she's telling the truth."
Kurumu grimaced when Nozomi looked at her for answers.
"He has a point, Kurumu. It's funny that everyone thinks it's a joke but some of our friends might get mad when they realize it's not."
Nozomi whirled upon Nerume, nearly spilling the contents of her lunch tray.
"Hold up. Are you all fucking with me right now?"
"Mizore is carrying my child. While I am aware that she might have had an encounter with Mr. Aono due to the mirror, I personally took her virginity days after that event. The child can't be his."
Kurumu sighed, doubting this was the right time to be letting this truth out.
"Are you wanting the whole school to know about this?"
"Ms. Bikiyama is one of Mizore's friends. It makes sense that she understands the truth."
"Kurono. Be straight with me. Is she really pregnant?"
Kurumu smiled softly at Nozomi.
"Yea. Umizake told you the official story."
"It's the only story, Ms. Kurono. I don't want rumors of Mr. Aono being the father circulating. That's not good for any of the parties involved."
Mizore nodded solemnly.
"After the mirror incident, I was distraught over losing my virginity. Aoi gave me permission to stay in his room so I could watch over Tsukune. One thing led to another."
Mizore was telling the truth in a deliberate way to bring about the wrong conclusion.
"Holy shit! You're actually pregnant."
"Yes. And I trust Aoi is telling the truth about taking my virginity."
"Why were you joking about Aono?"
"I wasn't sure if Aoi would still want me. Not after what happened to his father."
"Damn. Well you better not be playing around now because I'm about to tell Akari everything."
"I won't stop you, Ms. Bikiyama. It is best that everyone has the truth about the situation."
"We should probably go."
Kurumu nodded at Nerume's remark, starting at a slow walk away from the vending machines.
"Please try to keep this among friends, Nozomi. There's no real need for the whole school to know."
"Yea, yea. I suppose we could have a little more fun with it being a joke."
"If you play around, use protection."
Nozomi snickered at Mizore's monotone remark.
"I don't want to hear that from you."
Kurumu smirked when she saw the trio of girls at their table. Ginei had shown up and was blatantly sitting as close as he possibly could to Akari's discomfort. Kiba and Nikki sat across the table from him. Nikki was squirming while Kiba carried on a conversation with a dismissive air.
"Give that poor girl some space, Ginei."
Ginei chuckled at their arrival, deliberately draping an arm around Akari.
"But it's much more fun to be like this."
"Move it, mutt. I got news for Akari."
Nozomi lifted a foot to nudge Ginei in the small of his back. The werewolf grinned, scooting aside to give just enough space for Nozomi.
"Slacks? Someone is worried about her aroma."
"Move over more. I can't fit my ass in that spot."
"Oh you'd be surprised how easy it is to fit something big in a tight space."
Kurumu hovered indecisively as Nozomi squeezed into the spot between Ginei and Akari. She glanced at Mizore whom noted the look and offered a shrug. Umizake calmly took the open seat beside Nikki, gesturing for Mizore to sit at the end to his left.
"Damn you smell nice."
Ginei snickered at Nozomi's muttered remark as she settled in.
"Thank you. I hope that wasn't your news."
"Shut up. Turns out Shirayuki is genuinely pregnant with Umizake's kid."
Seeing how Nerume was moving around the table to claim the last open spot next to Kiba, Kurumu decided she would have to sit next to the troublemaker. Akari laughed nervously as Kurumu placed her tray down across from Nerume's spot.
"That's different. I know her affections have strayed from Mr. Aono."
"Are you playing along with this gag?"
Umizake smiled stiffly at Kiba.
"It's no gag. I'm aware that Mizore has been presenting the situation as a joke."
"You're not fucking with us."
"Nope. I was thinking that too but the way Kurono and Genzouyaki reacted tells me this was not another prank. Umizake is right that I would get upset if she came back from winter break with a pregnant belly."
"I had my suspicions but this confirms it. I was only planning to wish her a happy birthday but I guess a congratulations are in order."
Kurumu swatted his arm with the back of her hand.
"Yea. So no feeling her up."
"Don't be stingy. When else will I have a chance to molest a pregnant girl?"
"When you make Hajihachi into a mommy."
Ginei smirked at Kurumu, smoothly placing his hand on Nozomi's shoulder.
"Fair point. Though it seems the girls aren't having a study session this year thanks to the exams getting staggered. I won't get to be naughty with all these lovely ladies coming into season."
"Could you not caress my shoulder?"
"Why? Am I making you squirm like the cutie over there?"
Nikki pouted, trying to sit still.
"My squirming has nothing to do with my cycle."
"This moron is trying out a pair of thongs."
Nikki's eyes widened, smacking Kiba's shoulder.
"Shut up, you bitch!"
"I tried those out over the weekend. Annoying things."
"Oh? Did you not enjoy the experience?"
Nozomi sighed at Ginei's question, leaning against him.
"Nope. Was so bad that I took them off."
"Wearing a skirt no less."
"Are you serious?"
Akari nodded at Nikki's shock.
"Yea. I couldn't believe it myself."
"I'm thinking your cycle might peak before the full moon."
Nozomi smirked at Ginei.
"Hopefully not. Do you have any idea how hard it would be to take exams with your body craving sex?"
"Sounds like an average day for a man."
"I'm not Mika, dummy. Your gentle caresses won't make me suddenly want to mate with you."
"So I've already told him. He insists on being a nuisance."
"There is a spot on your lower back that I could rub to make you squirm."
Nozomi smirked at him, poking his shoulder.
"If you ever make my tail come out, I will hurt you."
"You have done what you came to do. Now go away."
Ginei chuckled, pushing up onto his feet. He eased one leg over the bench and then the other.
"Very well. I can tell that I'm not wanted here. Mr. Fusamina is in suite 501 which he shares with Mr. Yasunama. Pay him a visit with those thongs and all that discomfort of yours will be worth it."
Nikki laughed, shaking her head without looking at him.
"No way am I doing that."
"I'll see you ladies when you're more agreeable to my presence."
"Then I suppose that we'll never see you again, Mr. Morioka."
Ginei chuckled at Akari's remark, walking off. The three okami girls breathed a sigh of relief.
"I know you, Ms. Uchikawa. I can't say the same about these two ladies."
Akari smiled at Umizake, gesturing across the table.
"The girl you are sitting with is Matsudera Nikki. She's on the track team with Nozomi and me. The other girl is Kiba Enoko. She recently joined track and is Nikki's friend from junior high."
The trio exchanged polite greetings.
"I understand that you two are friends with my fiancée."
Kiba snorted, taking a swig from her can of tea.
"I suppose we are. I'll wish her a happy birthday."
"Yes. Happy birthday, Ms. Shirayuki."
"Thank you, Ms. Matsudera."
"I guess this better explains why you suddenly gave up on Mr. Aono. The whole standing you up at the wedding altar felt too outlandish."
"I can understand why you all concluded this as foolery. There was a sudden decision to marry us when the snow priestess determined Mizore was pregnant. But that was canceled when my father died."
"My condolences for your loss."
Nikki and Kiba quickly echoed Akari's sentiment.
"Thanks. The baby is mine. I'm aware that there might be rumors of Mr. Aono fathering the child due to a mishap with the mirror, but I took Mizore's virginity after that. We've shared multiple nights together."
"Yes. He was so gentle. I couldn't even tell it was happening."
Kurumu smirked, glancing at Nerume. The kirin's eyes met hers and Nerume managed a smile. The way these two lied probably had Nerume wondering how much Umizake knew. Thankfully Nerume was not saying anything to contradict the couple's ruse.
"Well this is a political marriage. I understand why you would want there to be no question about the legitimacy of the child."
"This is my child, Ms. Uchikawa. When confronted with the news of Mizore's pregnancy, Mr. Aono stated clearly that he had never engaged in sexual activity with her."
"The mirror-"
"Didn't make people forget."
Kurumu smiled apologetically for cutting Akari off.
"I caused those two to have a spotty memory of that incident. Tsukune didn't have sex with her."
"Of course. It will be best for Ms. Shirayuki to marry the father of her child."
Nozomi chuckled nervously.
"Right. These two are engaged after all. When will you get married?"
"Our wedding date was supposed to be over winter break but that clearly won't happen in the current state of affairs. I was thinking that we should do it over summer break after the baby is born."
"Makes sense. The baby should be born around that time."
Nozomi favored the couple a snaggletooth grin as she place a hand on Akari's shoulder.
"Her birthday is around that time. Maybe we could attend your wedding if it's late August."
"If you can arrange a place to stay, I would welcome your presence."
Kurumu smiled. This baby would come much sooner than these girls expected.
"Did any of you want to help with Mizore's birthday party tonight?"
Nozomi grinned, finally opening up her box of katsudon.
"I do. I'm curious what lover boy has planned."
"We have track practice."
Nozomi huffed at Akari's mild protest.
"Which is optional. Half of the team isn't showing up."
"Because they're studying for exams."
"Come on, Akari."
"I don't know if we should intrude."
"What exactly are you planning?"
Umizake swallowed down his meal, nodding at Nikki's inquiry.
"Nothing too fancy. I bought a few things to decorate her room and some noise makers. I was toying with the idea of asking Ms. Kurono to make a dinner for Mizore. Calling in that favor she owes me."
Kurumu smirked, wagging one of her skewers at him.
"I doubt that Mizore has any pots or pans to make food at her place. I guess I could make something at Moka's place and bring it over."
"Please don't trouble yourself. I'm at my limit."
Umizake smiled, placing a hand on top of Mizore's head.
"It was only a thought. I have no idea what Ms. Kurono has in her refrigerator which she could make."
"We have stuff but I'd have to ask Kokoa for permission to use it."
"Shirayuki seemed on board with the idea of making her a cake."
Kurumu grinned at Nozomi's remark, snagging a morsel off the skewer.
"Yea. The commissary carries everything we need to make one of those."
"If Mizore wants a cake, I don't have any objections."
Akari sighed, caressing the top of her coffee can.
"If food is involved, we really shouldn't intrude."
"You're not getting fat."
Akari pouted at Nozomi's mischievous grin.
"That's not the issue. You can't have a large party unless you make a lot of food."
Kurumu nodded thoughtfully, taking the time to finish her skewer.
"If it's a square cake, we can cut it up into smaller pieces."
"But Shirayuki wanted it. Sounds weird to make smaller pieces just so we can have more guests."
"I'm fine with a smaller piece."
Umizake slipped his hand from Mizore's head to her far shoulder as the snow girl carefully nibbled the meat on her skewer.
"We can pick you up some ice cream since you haven't had any today."
"Even with smaller pieces, you might only have enough for twelve people."
"You don't have to have a piece if you're that worried about it."
Akari frowned at Nozomi.
"I'm merely saying that she should only invite her closest friends."
"I consider you close friends."
"I know you are being kind, Ms. Shirayuki, but you must have dozens of people closer to you than us."
"Not on campus. You two would be in my top ten."
"See. We should go."
Akari frowned despite Nozomi's smug grin.
"That worries me. I don't feel like I've done much as a friend for you."
"I actually agree. I know that you quit the newspaper club, but you have to have more friends than us."
Kiba snorted at Nikki's concerned tone.
"I'm not going even if she has a small list of friends. I just joined the track team and I'm not about to skip out on practice, optional or not."
Kurumu finished off the last bit of her second skewer. She picked up the last one, wondering whom all would go to this.
"While I could make the cake, I'd rather have Yukari do it. She's like an expert at cooking. Moka and Kokoa will both want to be there. With Rubi, it kind of depends on if work keeps her busy."
"Bikiyama is a closer friend than any of those girls."
Kurumu frowned at Mizore.
"But you're getting along better with everyone."
"It is better. But I still don't feel like we're friends."
"We have to go, Akari."
Akari sighed at Nozomi's insistence.
"I suppose that I can. What about you?"
"I'll go to track practice with her. If that's okay with Shirayuki."
"It's fine. Other than Nerume and Tora, I don't even know whom else I would ask."
Kurumu swallowed down a bite, wagging the skewer at Mizore.
"Kana. And anyone from your drama club."
"I'm not friends with anyone in the drama club."
"Yet. You should at least tell them it's your birthday."
"I could ask Satsuki and Chisa to come if you'd like."
Mizore frowned at Nerume's offer.
"Would Ms. Unari even come?"
"Maybe not, but I could ask."
"Less is better in this situation, Ms. Genzouyaki."
"I guess that's true. Did you invite any of your classmates to the party?"
"Just Tora. The other girls wished me a happy birthday."
Kurumu grinned, recalling the disturbance during second period.
"We heard that. It sounded like the whole class was singing to you."
The temperature dropped slightly as Mizore blushed.
"Ms. Shindou insisted on doing that. It was embarrassing."
"You poor thing."
Nozomi snickered at Akari's comment.
"It was fun. At first it was just Shindou, me, Tobuyoku and Touzoku but by the second round of the song, everyone had joined in. I nearly pissed myself with how cold the room got."
"You should have known better than to make such a scene."
"Blame Ms. Nekonome. She allowed it."
"I'm so sorry, Ms. Shirayuki. That must have been mortifying."
"Yea. Nazohashi scolded us while holding Shirayuki like a mother."
Kurumu laughed at the image that came to mind.
"I think you have more friends than you acknowledge."
"Maybe. But I still regard these girls as closer friends than most."
Akari smiled softly.
"Do you have club today?"
"She does. I plan to set the party up while she's at club."
"Then I have a proposal. Since you don't need a bunch of people setting up the party, how about the four of us walk with you to your club meeting? We can leave track practice early and accompany you on your walk back to your party."
"I didn't agree to that."
Nikki swatted Kiba's arm.
"Shut up. We can stop by for the party."
"But I was going to do that."
"Yea. Genzouyaki is already blowing off her club meeting to be Shirayuki's escort."
"Her birthday is more important than looking at stars."
"You could watch over her during the club meeting, Nerume."
Nerume sighed heavily at Kurumu's suggestion, picking at her bowl of nikujaga.
"Fine. I guess having more people with us won't hurt."
"And I'm still blowing off track practice. I want to help with the party."
Nobody challenged Nozomi's declaration.
'You have been avoiding me.'
Kurumu smiled into the darkness of her mind, feeling the presence of Hatsue.
'Yea. I wanted to talk with you but never knew what I should say.'
'I can feel your fear. You are scared that this might be the last time.'
Kurumu could sense the emotions of Hatsue, aware that she felt the same way.
'You must be bored.'
'This sucks. Being in the darkness with no sense of time. I miss being with everyone.'
'I wish that we could do more for you.'
'You all have school. Yukari and Moka are doing their best to keep my loneliness limited.'
'I should have helped them.'
'I hear that you are quite busy with everyone.'
'I doubt that Moka and Yukari are reliable sources for gossip about me.'
'Mizore also has mentioned your activities.'
'She is even worse. You should have heard her at lunch today. And Umizake too. Those two both can tell a lie in such a believable way.'
'Judging them when you charmed many into believing your relationship with Tsukune was a lie.'
'Are you sassing your mother? Terrible child.'
They shared a relaxed moment of amusement.
'I love you.'
Those words warmed Kurumu's heart.
'I love you too.'
'I wish you could hold me. Kiss me.'
Kurumu could feel Hatsue's desires.
'Naughty girl. When you are born, you will not be getting those kind of hugs and kisses from me.'
Hatsue bled indignation.
'You were the one always pushing for more. I only wanted to feel close to you.'
'You made me orgasm. Several times.'
'Taking your blood in that way was wrong of me. But we will have a better relationship when I am born your daughter. No more nipping your neck.'
Kurumu felt so warm with affection.
'Yea. I will cuddle you to death.'
A stray sexual thought crossed Kurumu's awareness.
'Bad girl. He is technically your father.'
'Not officially.'
'You are so bad.'
'A girl can dream.'
'Not that kind of dream. Bad, bad girl.'
'But it might work.'
'No. You will be born with a different body. He will never see you as the girl he loves.'
'I hope that you are wrong about him.'
'No. He will hurt Moka. He will hurt you. And he still hurts me.'
'Maybe true. He should acknowledge that some of his desire is physical. He could be happy with Moka.'
Kurumu threw up a wall of resentment at the notion.
'No. He is more likely to hold out for you. Thinking love is all in the mind. That being in love justifies sex. Like sex is something bad without love.'
'But that is bad.'
'I was not justifying rape.'
'Sorry. I know that you meant casual sex.'
'His problem is that he thinks he can only have one true love. Moka is just the body he wants. You are the mind he loves. You will never be the complete package he desires. It might take years for him to give up on you, but he will.'
There was a tense moment. Hatsue relaxed in resignation.
'I love you.'
Kurumu had a surge of frustration.
'This is why I was reluctant to chat with you. We have nothing to talk about.'
'You could tell me how your day was.'
'I feel like that would be bragging. Look at all of the fun I am having while you are locked away.'
'This is all I have right now. Please share your life with me.'
Kurumu sighed, thinking back over the past two weeks. She shared the best moments.
'Is this what you have Moka and Yukari do?'
Hatsue laughed pleasantly, perusing through the memories. She felt content.
'Sometimes. Yukari is very bad at it.'
Kurumu was given a memory of one of Yukari's daily reports. The witch rattled off her activities like it was study material for a test.
'She feels so distant.'
'I thought so too. But I made her cry when I pushed for more emotions. This was the only way for her to manage without losing her composure.'
'Yea. I would probably break down if I had to share my day in a lively manner.'
'You are lucky that you can shoot me vivid memories. The others have a hard time doing this.'
Kurumu smiled, feeling how melancholy Hatsue was.
'How is Moka doing?'
'Worse than Yukari.'
'Yea. I just knew that she was hurting on the inside.'
'I hope that this ends soon.'
Kurumu understood Hatsue's desire. She wanted to end Moka's suffering.
'Putting you in the baby will not make Moka feel better.'
'I know. But at least I will not have to feel her pain.'
Kurumu projected an aura of reproach.
'So cruel. Only thinking of yourself.'
'It hurts, Kurumu. There is nothing I can do for her. For anyone. This must be how an elderly person feels like. Everyone is waiting for me to die.'
'This is not goodbye. It might be years before we get to talk to you, but it will happen.'
'Assuming I will have any memories of this.'
'You will. I will give you these memories if I have to.'
Hatsue's presence glowed in halfhearted anger.
'Please do not corrupt this innocent girl.'
'Brat. You are far from innocent.'
'Please. Keep your memories. Just love that baby girl as she is. If God wants me to return as I am, then I will gladly greet everyone."
'But it might be up to three years before we can say with any certainty that you are gone.'
'Accept it and move on. Let it be a pleasant surprise if I come back.'
There was a short moment of uncertainty but Hatsue doubled down on her resolve.
'Accept it, Kurumu. I know that will be hard. But you will never love this baby girl as her own person if you hold onto the hope that she will become me. Promise me that you will love her for her.'
Kurumu felt the strength of Hatsue's convictions. Hatsue did not want this baby to suffer the way she had for the last six years. A shell which was only valued for what was trapped inside.
A wave of grief flooded Kurumu's soul. It weighed heavily on her heart. Hurting.
'I don't want to lose you.'
'I love you, Kurumu.'
'This is why. I knew this would happen.'
'We always knew the end was near. We have to say goodbye.'
'No. I love you too much.'
There was a heavy pause. The comfort Hatsue was providing only make Kurumu feel worse. Hatsue had already accepted it.
'I understand that Tora is with you. I haven't been with her since Sunday. Can I speak with her?'
Kurumu sniffled, running away from the darkness. She clutched the rosary to her bosom with tears rolling down her cheeks. She promptly wiped the tears away.
"You okay?"
Kurumu nodded at Nozomi whom stood beside her in the middle of Mizore's room. They had taped two dozen blue and white, glitter laden streamers to the ceiling. Nozomi had on two yellow and red triangle party hats, playfully mounted to her breasts with the stretchy black cords about her torso. She held a blue and white party popper in her hands.
"Tora. Hatsue wants you."
Tora perked up, standing with Kana and Umizake over by the bathroom door. Both Kana and Umizake were wearing their party hats properly. Kurumu had hers dangling against her back with the black cord about her throat. She held the rosary out, prompting the sphinx to walk over.
"She made you cry."
"Dummy forgets that it's Mizore's birthday. Remind her about that before she tears your heart out."
Tora chuckled, taking the rosary from Kurumu in exchange for her party popper.
"I'll tell her to be gentle."
"Yea. And tell her that Kana is here too."
Tora nodded, holding the rosary to her slight chest. The sphinx closed her eyes and went silent.
"It's kind of cool that you guys can communicate with the spirit."
They had explained the whole concept of there being two different Mokas to Nozomi.
"Yea. Anyone holding the rosary can."
"Can I try?"
"You might not be able to."
Kurumu frowned at Yukari's comment. The witch stood up against the counter beside Moka. Kokoa was further down the counter, writing out a letter to her mother in regards of their winter break plans and their understanding of the situation in Yukimura. None of these three wanted to wear a party hat.
"I'm sure that she could figure it out."
"I'm only warning her that it isn't as simple as holding it. It took Tora several minutes to reach Hatsue her first time. Kana still hasn't figured it out."
"Which isn't fair. She might have a new name but I was close to Hatsue."
"It's not about how close you two were. It's a skill check."
Kurumu smiled apologetically at Kana.
"I'm sorry. I didn't realize that you couldn't talk with her."
"It's annoying. I want to chat with her."
Kurumu nodded at Kana, glancing around the barren apartment. Without any furniture, Mizore's single suite looked like it had more space than Moka's double. They had placed several bowls of incense about the room which would help with any sudden temperature changes. Mizore was bound to make a few.
On the counter behind Yukari was the white cake sitting on a large cutting board. They must have pulled it out of the oven and put on the icing during Kurumu's time with Hatsue. A small stack of paper plates and plastic forks which they had acquired in the commissary rested beside the cake. The rest of Yukari's cooking things were stacked in the sink.
"Kokoa. I cried too if it makes you feel any better."
"Shut up. I had something in my eye."
Kurumu shared a giggle with Nozomi. Not having fencing practice this week, Kokoa had demanded to have the rosary the moment she crossed paths with Yukari after lunch. The girl had started bawling, needing several minutes to calm down but refusing to say why she was in tears. They had almost left her behind but she had insisted upon helping them set this party up.
"Umizake. You need to get some furniture for this place."
"This does feel empty. I thought my room was barren."
"Well your desk won't be much of an improvement. Get a couch and maybe a television."
"You guys should get a bed."
"I'm not made of money. I'll have to do these acquisitions after winter break."
Nozomi snickered, bumping against Kurumu's hip.
"Can you imagine asking your mother for money to buy a mattress for lovemaking?"
Kurumu smiled softly, thinking about her mother.
"She would have been cool with that."
"Oh, sorry. I didn't mean it like that."
Kurumu smirked, returning the bump.
"I know. Are you going to spend the night with her or will she be coming home with us?"
Umizake stiffened, glancing aside.
"I believe that will be up to her."
Kana chuckled, tentatively poking his arm.
"Look at him. All embarrassed."
Kana had swallowed down the same story as Nozomi without thinking to question it. She was happy for the couple, thinking this would allow Tsukune to openly pursue his love for Moka. Kurumu had no idea how much Kana understood about the situation with Hatsue, doubting the others had told her about the plan to move Hatsue into the baby.
After a long moment of silence, Tora let out a sigh. The sphinx sniffled, stepping over to Kana and holding out the rosary.
"Good luck, Kana. She really wants to talk with you."
Kana grinned, reverently taking the rosary.
"I need to tell her all about Kurumu's modeling debut."
"You better not!"
The girls shared a giggle at her expense. She pouted as Kana brought the rosary to her bosom, closing her eyes in concentration.
"It's almost six. Birthday girl should be here any minute now."
Kurumu smirked, noticing the slim black watch about Nozomi's left wrist.
"You should get a phone."
"I don't have the money for that."
Kurumu stalked over to her purse which rested on the counter next to Kokoa. She rummaged through the contents, pulling out her phone.
"I only suggest it because of the camera."
"Isn't it cheaper to just buy a digital camera?"
"I have no idea. Are you done with that letter?"
Kokoa huffed, setting aside her mechanical pencil. She started folding up the letter.
"I think so. I told her about my fencing club tournament, that succubus messing with his head and the minds of everyone in Yukimura, Ms. Nekonome's wedding and Shirayuki spending the break with us."
"Will she be able to protect Tsukune from the High Court?"
Kokoa snorted, stuffing the letter into the envelope.
"I don't know what her response to this letter will be."
"I think she reached her. She would have given up by now if she wasn't."
Kurumu grinned at Tora's remark. Sure enough, Kana was standing still with her eyes closed.
"That or she fell asleep."
Tora smirked at Nozomi's comment, shaking her head. Kurumu took a picture of the two.
"I'm glad that Satsuki agreed to come. Mizore should have more than ten people at her party."
Tora huffed, wagging the party popper she had taken from Kana.
"You're being silly. Most people don't have that many people over for their birthday."
"Isn't that just sad?"
"Unless you're counting servants, I've never had a birthday with more than ten people."
"Yea. Mother never fussed over our birthdays and Father was indifferent."
Kurumu sighed at the vampire sisters' comments.
"Well you two had very sad birthdays. Hatsue cried when those dummies made her that weird cake."
"Because that was the first time other students acknowledged my birthday."
"I can't say that I've ever made a head count, but my parents always made a big deal about my birthday. This was my first year spending it away from family. What about you, Nazohashi?"
Tora managed a smile.
"I'd rather not talk about birthdays."
"Yea. Tora doesn't have a big family. She's like me. I only had my mother."
Yukari sighed dramatically in the uncomfortable silence which followed.
"I will state for the record that I've always had a wonderful experience on my birthday. Yes, it was always a family only event. And yes, both of my parents lack siblings, so I don't have any aunts or uncles."
Kurumu grinned, thankful for Yukari's save.
"Your grandpa, the new Headmaster, is your mother's father, right?"
"That is correct. My grandmother is Mr. Hakuru's only daughter. He had two sons whom passed away long before I was born. They both have families in China. I get the impression that they were on bad terms with Mr. Hakuru."
"I had no clue that our old science teacher was related to you."
"He is, Ms. Bikiyama."
"Does your grandpa have siblings?"
"If we are talking about extended family that I have actually met, that would be on my father's side. His whole family are urbanized witches, living in Yoshikawa of Saitama prefecture."
"I thought witches hated living in the city."
"Most do. His family is… different. Half of them marry humans so I have distant cousins whom can't even cast spells. My father finds most of his cousins intolerable."
"Sounds like your father is stuck up."
Kurumu smirked at Nozomi's assessment, recalling the times she had met the man. He was a very biased individual, but protective of his daughter.
"Have you met any of his cousins?"
"I've met his mother, his aunt and two of her daughters. They usually drop in unannounced, though there was one time that they came because Dad was hospitalized."
"Hospitalized? What happened?"
"Just an accident that some humans witnessed. He had to let it heal naturally instead of using magic."
Kurumu wanted to ask more about this family when there was a knock on the door. Reaching behind her, she dragged her party hat into place with a quick adjustment of the stretchy cord. Nozomi bounded over to the entryway, grabbing the knob and turning the deadbolt.
"Everyone ready? Here goes."
Nozomi tugged open the door and frowned. She backed away from the entryway as Mizore entered.
"What happened to Nikki and Kiba?"
Nerume stepped in on Mizore's heels as the snow girl slipped out of her shoes.
"Ms. Kiba refused to come so Nikki went home with her."
Nozomi sighed at Akari's answer, retreating further from the entryway with Mizore. Satsuki stepped inside with Akari waiting in the open doorway.
"That sucks. But I guess that works out. We only have twelve slices of cake like you guessed."
"Happy birthday, Mizore."
Mizore smirked at Kurumu as she strolled over to Umizake's side.
"A phrase loses its meaning when it's said more than a dozen times in one day."
Satsuki snickered, following Nerume into the room as Akari closed the door behind her.
"Save that drama for your club."
"I think I'll pass on the cake if it's all the same. That way Ms. Shirayuki can have a second piece."
"I'm fine with only one."
Moka thumbed at the refrigerator as Yukari poked pink candles into the perfectly smooth white icing.
"We picked up a tub of vanilla ice cream and put it in your freezer. It's white cake with vanilla frosting."
Kurumu placed her phone on the counter, grabbing the stack of party hats and party poppers. She pranced over to Nerume and Satsuki.
"Take a hat and a popper. We're going to use them when she blows out the candles."
Satsuki snorted, taking one of the hats.
"Why should I wear this dorky thing?"
"You wouldn't be the first to fuss over that. At least take this."
Satsuki sighed, taking the popper. Nerume eagerly took both, promptly donning her hat to the right side of her head to offset her left side ponytail. Kurumu grinned, padding over to Akari.
"Would you also like a boob extension?"
Akari favored her a snaggletooth grin, taking one hat with a nod.
"I'll put this where it's supposed to go."
"Over your cooch."
Akari politely smiled at Nozomi before placing the hat properly atop her head.
"You are not walking home with me looking like that."
Nozomi chuckled, grabbing beneath her jutting triangles and giving them a shake.
"You're just jealous of my prominent features."
"If you don't want a piece and Shirayuki only wants one, I would like to save the last piece for Rubi."
"Any idea when she will get here?"
"You're the one with the phone. Try calling her."
Kurumu smirked at Yukari, doubting that Rubi was carrying her electronic device for that call to work. At least she hoped that witch would not be carrying around her vibrating egg.
"Time to light the candles."
"Hold on, Ms. Sendou. There is something I want to do first."
All attention shifted to Umizake as he reached into his back pocket. To Kurumu's surprise, he pulled out a slim, black box. He turned to Mizore, presenting the box to her.
"This is probably not the best timing or place, but it feels right."
He pulled off the top. A diamond encrusted ring sparkled from the overhead lights as he slipped the top underneath the bottom. He looked at Mizore whom was fixated on the ring.
"Holy shit! Are you proposing?!"
Umizake laughed at Nozomi. He picked the ring out from its black backing.
"We're already engaged, Ms. Bikiyama."
"You know what I meant!"
Umizake held it out to Mizore. She looked up at him, holding her hands to her breast. Even with all of these incense bowls burning, Kurumu could feel the drop in temperature.
"It's my mother's engagement ring. She told me to give it to you as a sign that we still want you."
"I can't take that."
"She has a new ring, Mizore. She demanded for a bigger, shinier one for her twenty year anniversary. Her reward for putting up with my old man for so many years."
"A hand me down ring."
Akari jabbed Nozomi in the side. She shook her head reproachfully when Nozomi looked at her.
"It's yours, Mizore. If you will have us."
Mizore took the ring, turning it over in her hands.
"Yes. If you still want me."
"Then put it on."
Mizore nodded, attempting to put the ring on her left hand.
"Too small."
"Sorry. My mother has small fingers. We can get it resized."
Mizore wiggled the ring onto her left pinky, smiling at him in triumph.
"This is fine."
Umizake smiled, returning the box to his back pocket. He placed his hands on her shoulders.
"I'll have a wedding ring for you when that times comes."
"Kiss me?"
Umizake leaned forward as Mizore lifted up on her toes. The snow girl closed her eyes as their lips met. It was a long kiss which had Kurumu wishing that her boyfriend was here.
Nozomi decided to pull her party popper the moment the couple's lips parted. Her random act prompted Akari, Nerume and Satsuki to do the same. Kurumu shared a glance with Tora before they both pulled theirs. Moka and Kokoa did theirs last as Yukari shook her head.
"That wasn't what we planned."
"Oh, hush, Sendou. That was the perfect time to do it."
Umizake chuckled at Nozomi's remark, pulling Mizore close to him. His cheeks were flush.
"What's done is done. You can light the candles now."
Moka touched Yukari's shoulder as the witch fished a match out of a box.
"Before that. Could someone wake Kana up? She'll be disappointed if she misses this too."
"I'll handle that."
Yukari sighed, striking a match as Tora gently shook the blond whom remained standing still with the rosary. Yukari started lighting each of the sixteen candles.
"For Shirayuki's sake, hopefully that is the only thing that goes off prematurely tonight."
Kurumu blushed, hoping that nobody would ask the eleven year old to explain that.