Previously:
Mizore raised her concerns with Tsukune about the numerous eyes on them and the Newspaper club. Tsukune would be made class representative and run into the class representative, Tadashi Wanibuchi, the representative of the troublesome Yukari Sendou. The two would then meet with the other representatives where Tsukune was introduced to Hokuto Kaneshiro, who, after a short dialogue, agreed to help Tsukune in his attempts to better Youkai Academy. Afterwards, the Newspaper club would meet and learn more girls had gone missing with the plan to travel in groups to avoid being picked off, while multiple eyes followed them.
'Talking'
"Thinking"
*expression*
Flashback
Techniques
Chapter 10 – Quorum
It was five days later since the last meeting of the Newspaper Club and results of the test had finally been released. As the students all clamoured to see their results, Tsukune, already having seen his result, was sulking.
'You don't look good sulking, Tsukune.' Said Mizore.
'But I tried so hard, and I just made it past the halfway mark.' Whined Tsukune.
'One hundred and twenty-seventh is still better than one hundred and twenty-eighth.' Pointed out Mizore.
'Yeah, I guess, I just thought I would have done better. Moka came thirteenth.' Said Tsukune.
'Kurumu barely passed at the one hundred and ninety-ninth spot.' Said Mizore, pointing to the succubus, who was breathing so deeply at the near miss.
'It isn't my fault! I got distracted by that slug just before the exams.' Said Kurumu.
'That was weeks before the actual exam.' Said Mizore, causing Kurumu to look teary.
'Hey, it still affected me. How did Moka do so well anyway, she acts like such an air-head all the time?' Questioned Kurumu.
'I'd be happy to help you study Kurumu, just not for the next few days, I'm working on a project for the next few days.' Said Moka.
'What are you working on Moka?' Asked Tsukune.
'It's a surprise.' Said Moka.
'Well, just make sure to be careful.' Said Tsukune, before hearing a commotion.
It looked like Yukari and Tadashi were having a little altercation. Moka quickly rushed to jump to Yukari's aid. Tsukune quickly joined them.
'Moka, while it is true Tadashi was threatening Yukari, she used magic to attack him as well. We both saw it, really, Yukari should apologise first, then Tadashi would also apologise, isn't that right?' Said Tsukune.
'We need to set an example for our class so even if Yukari does something wrong, we need to be better right, isn't that what you told me?' Said Tsukune.
'Hmm, I'm surprised you took my words to heart so quickly.' Said Tadashi, narrowing his eyes.
'Well, Miss Sendou, do you have anything to say?' Asked Tadashi expectantly.
'I'm sorry.' Said Yukari sourly.
'Then I apologise as well. Let's go.' Said Tadashi, before turning around and leaving.
'Tsukune, why did you get involved in that.' Asked Mizore.
'Well, while I understand where Moka was coming from she wasn't being fair either. I know Tadashi started it, but if we only get the person who started things to realise their mistakes, people will think retaliation is okay. That's not okay.' Said Tsukune strongly.
'Wow Tsukune, you sound so manly. It's kinda unlike you.' Pointed out Kurumu, causing Tsukune's expression to drop.
'Thank you for helping me, Moka.' Said Yukari, turning to her saviour, as the crowd started to disperse.
'Oh you're welcome. I know Tsukune has a point, but I don't think violence towards girls is okay.' Said Moka.
'It isn't about violence against girls, Moka, it is about violence between monsters, it shouldn't be happening at all. Boy or girl, anyone can hurt, kidnap or kill anyone else. Don't think being a girl means you can't hurt someone, even indirectly.' Said Tsukune, causing Moka to bow her head as she remembered how it was her who had inadvertently put Saizou in front of Tsukune.
'I know that, but I also didn't want to see Yukari get hurt.' Admitted Moka.
'Even after she kidnapped you and turned your bladder in a locked gate?' Questioned Kurumu.
'I-I forgive Yukari for that.' Said Moka, causing Yukari to look up at her.
'You really mean it?' Asked Yukari.
'Yes. I mean, you just wanted someone to talk to, I can understand that.' Said Moka.
'So can we, but we don't go around starting trouble, or at least some of us don't.' Said Mizore.
'Besides, if Yukari really wants someone to talk to, she should join the Newspaper Club really. We talk to a lot of people all the time.' Said Kurumu.
'I don't think that we are looking for new members now.' Said Mizore pointedly.
'Well, we can just put her on the shortlist then.' Said Kurumu.
'Hey, I'm not short!' Protested Yukari.
'You are, but that isn't what she meant anyway… fine, but we need to discuss our policy on new members first.' Said Mizore sharply.
'We can tell you our decision then.' Said Mizore, turning to Yukari.
'Hmph.' Huffed Yukari.
'Yukari, some friendly advice, not everyone here is as friendly as us, so you really should be more careful.' Said Tsukune.
'Friendly? You made me apologise to my bully.' Protested Yukari.
'And I made him apologise to you. If you only think about getting even, eventually someone will tip the scale too far. I don't want more people getting hurt.' Said Tsukune, causing Yukari to pause at the sincerity of his words.
'Even if you don't want it, people will keep getting hurt.' Said Yukari cynically.
'Well we'll see about that.' Said Tsukune, before walking off.
'Where do you think Tsukune is going?' Asked Kurumu.
'I don't know, but I'm going to follow him. For all his talk about not wanting to get hurt, he keeps making himself a big target.' Said Mizore.
-line break-
Tsukune was making his way back to his dorm, before feeling as though someone was watching him.
'Is someone there?' Asked Tsukune loudly.
'Hello there.' Said a voice, causing Tsukune to turn to the left.
Approaching Tsukune was a handsome looking boy with mismatched eyes.
'Who are you?' Asked Tsukune.
'Me? I'm shall we say, a friend of a friend. I've heard interesting things about you, Tsukune Aono.' Said the boy.
'Really? Interesting things about me?' Asked Tsukune nervously.
'Just whispers is all. I hear you are trying to make the school representatives look after their classmates more and if that display was any indication, it seems you are pretty neutral about people as is. Didn't Tadashi help you out and befriend you? I don't think chastising him in public is a nice way to return the favour.' Said the boy.
'It isn't about favours, everyone in this school should look out for each other, that's what humans do and aren't we trying to learn how to act like them?' Said Tsukune.
'You have a point there, but not all humans are nice like that, are they? You are facing an uphill battle you know, most monsters were hunted down by humans, so trying to get people to act like them isn't going to be easy.' Said the boy.
'I know it isn't going to be easy, but I'm not alone.' Said Tsukune.
'That's right, isn't it? Well, I'll be watching to see how it goes. Oh, and you can call me Kiria if we meet again.' Said the boy, before walking away.
'Friend of a friend?' Questioned Tsukune, before turning to the right.
'I'm surprised you noticed either of us.' Said Mizore, appearing from the right and walking over to Tsukune.
'Well, even though I keep getting involved when you told me to be careful, I at least keep my guard up.' Said Tsukune.
'Tsukune, I don't know what to do any more. I keep trying to protect you and you keep putting yourself at risk. Do you really want me to become a widow before we even get married?' Asked Mizore.
'Wh-where is this coming from?' Asked Tsukune.
'My way of trying to get you to be reasonable. I really like you, Tsukune, but your ranking really does show you aren't the brightest around.' Said Mizore.
'Hey, Yukari was in first place and even I know not to pick a fight with another monster.' Said Tsukune defensively.
'True, but Yukari isn't trying to change a monster school to become more like a human school. You are going to make enemies and I don't know if you will survive them all, there is no point to needlessly making more. If there is one more incident, I might just have to kidnap you to hide you away from everyone.' Said Mizore.
'That isn't funny.' Said Tsukune.
'It wasn't a joke.' Said Mizore, unnerving Tsukune slightly.
'Why don't we go get something to eat.' Said Tsukune.
'Okay.' Said Mizore easily, with the two walking off, side-by-side.
-line break-
'So what are you all thinking?' Asked Gin, as the group discussed Yukari.
'I think she should be allowed to join, we could always use more hands and Yukari could use some friends.' Said Moka.
'On the other hand, everyone here knows something that she doesn't.' Said Mizore.
'I wonder if that would matter, what with her being a witch and all.' Added Kurumu.
'I'm totally not into loli-type girls though.' Said Gin, adding his two cents.
'I think we should let her in. After all, won't it be suspicious if only people who know about me are in the Newspaper Club?' Questioned Tsukune.
'That's a pretty big risk for someone we don't even know.' Said Gin.
'Isn't that the point, we don't know her, maybe Yukari could be a great friend.' Said Tsukune.
'She could also be a great risk. Her behaviour is obviously very childish, there is no telling what she might do with a secret of ours.' Said Mizore.
'I'm pretty sure I could just wipe her mind if I needed to.' Said Kurumu.
'Hang on, if Yukari is a witch, she might be more okay with it than most.' Said Moka.
'Why does her being a witch matter?' Asked Tsukune.
'A witch is the closest thing to a human and monster. While they appear to be monsters to humans, they are comparable to humans to most monsters.' Said Mizore.
'Exactly, so don't you think adding someone like that to this group makes things more suspicious on us. First one rumour, then a human-monster, it doesn't take a genius to start making assumptions.' Said Gin.
'Why can't it be seen in a good way? Isn't the goal to be like humans anyway, a human-monster person like a witch is the best example. If they don't do magic, they pass for human, don't they?' Countered Tsukune.
'Oh, I just remembered, I'm late for something important. I'll see you tomorrow.' Said Moka, rushing out of the room in a hurry, missing the small, huddled mass under the window entirely.
'Now that Moka has left, can we be realistic here? While it is fine for Tsukune to be friends with people outside of this group and with people in class, we spend a lot of time with each other in this club, and it isn't unreasonable for us to slip up at some point, especially with two airheads here.' Said Mizore.
'Hey, I'm not an airhead!' Protested Kurumu.
'I don't think Gin is either, he's been very careful recently.' Added Tsukune.
'Actually, you are the second airhead, Tsukune, sorry to burst your bubble.' Said Mizore, causing Tsukune to have an arrow strike through him with the word "airhead" along it.
'All the same, having more allies might be a good thing.' Said Gin.
'I still say we should let her join us, even without her knowing the truth.' Said Tsukune.
'Well, in that case, we can vote on it next time when Moka comes back.' Said Gin.
'So, any other news?' Asked Gin.
'Yeah, some pretty-boy is following Tsukune now.' Said Mizore.
'Oh no, Tsukune, it's okay, just rest here for now, forget all about other boys.' Said Kurumu, leaping over to Tsukune and shoving his face into her chest.
'Would you cut that out, this is a serious discussion.' Said Mizore coldly.
'Hey, you need him to be on the right team too, we can't let him forget about girls, or in my case "the girls".' Said Kurumu, even as Tsukune failed to escape her grip.
'Yes and if "the girls" suffocate him, I will detach those flotation devices.' Said Mizore, her hand turning into a sharp ice claw.
'Fine, fine.' Said Kurumu, easing up, but keeping a grip on Tsukune.
'He said his name was Kiria.' Gasped Tsukune after being released.
'Hmm, doesn't sound familiar, what did he want?' Asked Gin.
'He said he was a friend of a friend.' Said Tsukune, his breathing almost back to normal.
'Friend of a friend? That's one of the shadiest lines in the book, what did he want?' Asked Gin.
'I think he seemed sincere… even if it was a bit weird.' Admitted Tsukune.
'Geez, sincere or not, do you completely not understand what a low profile is. I said climbing the ranks and getting involved in the school is good, but running into sneaky weirdos is bad.' Said Gin.
'Unless they are Mizore of course.' Added Kurumu
'Look, let's just table this discussion for next time when Moka is back, in the meantime, you three need to be careful. Don't forget, there is someone going around kidnapping people.' Said Gin, before leaving the trio as he exited the room.
'So Tsukune, how about we head up to your room now?' Proposed Kurumu.
'W-what?' Stammered Tsukune.
'What, we just had a hard test and there isn't anything else to do now.' Said Kurumu.
'You stay away from Tsukune, he is mine, especially since he is putting himself at risk. It is only fair I carry his child to pass on his legacy should something happen to him.' Said Mizore.
'M-Mizore.' Spluttered Tsukune.
'Hmm, so you mean if you get pregnant you would leave Tsukune alone for a few months?' Asked Kurumu.
'I would never leave Tsukune.' Said Mizore.
'That wasn't a no though, ok Tsukune, first up, you get Mizore pregnant and then you and I can have some undivided fun, how does that sound?' Asked Kurumu.
'I'm too young to be a father!' Exclaimed Tsukune in embarrassment.
'In that case, Kurumu will have to wait, that is the rule.' Said Mizore, causing the Succubus to pout.
'Hey, I could teach him things for his time with you, practice makes perfect.' Said Kurumu.
'It is Tsukune, it will be perfect, now unhand him.' Said Mizore sternly, causing the reluctant Succubus to let go of her prize.
'So what should we do now then? I don't want to just sit around waiting for Moka to come back from whatever it is she is up to.' Said Kurumu.
'We could at least practice other things.' Said Kurumu.
'I'm listening.' Said Mizore.
'Well, we can still do things like foreplay can't we?' Suggested Kurumu, causing Mizore to narrow her eyes.
'What about kissing practice?' Continued Kurumu.
'Hmm, a reasonable proposition, but how would we decide rules and more importantly the order?' Asked Mizore seriously.
'We could flip a coin?' Said Kurumu.
'Can you guys not talk about doing things to me like I'm not even here?' Huffed an embarrassed Tsukune.
'Fair enough, who do you want to kiss first then, Tsukune?' Asked Mizore.
'I don't want to kiss anyone right now!' Spluttered Tsukune.
'Oh no! The pretty boy got to my darling Tsukune, back in you go.' Said Kurumu, shoving Tsukune's head back into her chest.
'Are these people serious?' Muttered Yukari, watching from the window.
-line break-
'I still don't know why you're so embarrassed Tsukune, as my Destined One and the father to Mizore's baby, you need to start doing things with us sooner or later.' Said Kurumu.
'Can we focus on trying to get to the bottom of finding this kidnapper and making this school safer first?' Asked Tsukune.
'Fine, fine, but you know we'll have to start getting things going sooner rather than later. What do you want to do about making the school safer now anyway?' Asked Kurumu.
'I'm not sure. I wanted to speak with some of the other class representatives about the girls who went missing, since they at least noticed them even if they didn't care enough to report that they had gone missing.' Said Tsukune.
'A logical next step and one which also elevates your status. I will go and assess the representatives first.' Said Mizore, before two clumps of ice fell from her hands and formed into two ice clones, who then headed off on a search.
'By the way, it's been a while since you last got hurt Tsukune, how are you feeling? All better?' Asked Kurumu.
'Uh, yeah, actually, has it really been that long?' Asked Tsukune.
'Well, your last altercation was almost two weeks ago now with Kurumu's wayward lover.' Said Mizore.
'That's just gross, Tsukune is my one and only lover.' Countered Kurumu.
'Actually, that does make me wonder about a few things, I wonder what happened to my blood now.' Said Tsukune.
'It's only been two months since the year started and you needed extra top ups, remember. I doubt it would be out of your system at this point.' Said Mizore.
'What do you mean by that?' Asked Kurumu.
'Ophiuchus said it would take four months for things to go back to normal, I thought since we were halfway there, I would feel different. I guess I forgot about all the times after that.' Admitted Tsukune.
'You need to keep being careful, Tsukune, one step back is all it will take. Then it'll start all over again.' Said Mizore.
'I guess.' Said Tsukune.
'It's probably best to get some rest for now, we can think about everything tomorrow.' Suggested Mizore.
'Yeah, we can just let the clones do the work while we get something to eat.' Said Kurumu.
'We could always cook something ourselves.' Suggested Mizore.
'Yeah! I could make my cookies for Tsukune to try.' Said Kurumu.
'And when you say cookies…' Said Mizore suspiciously.
'Just normal chocolate chip cookies.' Said Kurumu defensively.
'I will supervise then.' Said Mizore.
"It's nice that the two of them are getting along. It's just a little scary when they're on the same wavelength about adult stuff." Thought Tsukune, before his thoughts passed over to Moka.
'Hey, do you two think Moka would like cooking with you as well?' Asked Tsukune.
'I don't know, vampires aren't exactly known for their dietary variety. I guess she could make gazpacho or something.' Said Kurumu.
'Why are you asking about Moka now anyway?' Asked Mizore.
'I was just thinking, the two of you really get along well, but Moka… I feel like she is happy to be with us, but also isn't as close as the two of you as you are with each other.' Said Tsukune.
'I think that's just Moka's personality though. She's actually one of the most innocent monsters around, at least, the outside Moka is.' Said Mizore.
'I understand what Tsukune means though, plus now she is going off doing things by herself. I mean, I guess it is good that she really isn't in competition for Tsukune, but she only really enjoys herself by being with us.' Said Kurumu.
'Do you think that's why she stood up for Yukari before, because she didn't want her to be alone? With the other Moka, I can't imagine her thinking girls aren't as strong as guys, so needing to protect Yukari seems out of character.' Said Tsukune.
'Can we really say that when Moka has two different characters?' Pointed out Mizore.
'I was just thinking we should try to get her involved more outside of class and the Newspaper Club.' Said Tsukune.
'Well, we can try, but it sounds like she is busy for now anyway. So, let's get back to cookies, we can even make her some if you really want.' Suggested Kurumu.
'Okay.' Agreed Tsukune.
-line break-
The group had spent the afternoon making cookies and having a good time, before parting for the night. The next day, after class had finished and the others were waiting for Gin to show up, Tsukune noticed Moka was reading a book on art.
'What are you reading there Moka?' Asked Tsukune.
'Huh? Oh, it's nothing.' Said Moka, hurriedly putting the book away.
'How was your thing yesterday?' Asked Tsukune, only mildly put off.
'Oh, it was fine, I was modelling for Sensei.' Said Moka.
'Modelling? What for?' Asked Tsukune.
'It's a surprise.' Said Moka shyly.
'That sounds fishy… are you doing a lewd photoshoot?' Accused Kurumu.
'Wha-what no, I couldn't do something like that.' Said Moka in embarrassment.
'Hmm, in that case, you can have some cookies, since you don't have to worry about looking slim in the nude.' Said Kurumu, handing Moka a small bag of cookies.
'Oh! Are these for me?' Asked Moka.
'It isn't a fair contest when you are so much smaller than me, you need to eat, or you'll never catch up to me with Tsukune.' Said Kurumu, before stuffing Tsukune's head into her chest, only for a kunai of ice to strike her head.
'That was completely unnecessary.' Said Mizore, right before Gin walked in.
'Okay, let's get down to business first. Is the loli in or out?' Asked Gin.
'Not exactly how I would phrase it.' Mumbled Tsukune.
'Well?' Asked Gin.
'I don't know, shouldn't we have some kind of test or probation period?' Questioned Kurumu.
'What are you proposing?' Asked Gin.
'Like a job interview. This is serious work we are doing here and if she is going around playing pranks it could get us all into trouble.' Said Kurumu.
'That's not a bad suggestion actually… anything else?' Asked Gin.
'She does seem to be a troublemaker; I suggest a contract.' Said Mizore, causing Tsukune to look at her in disbelief.
'Contract? We are the Newspaper Club, not a business.' Said Tsukune.
'I think we should let her join if she wants.' Said Moka.
'I'm actually inclined to agree with, Moka, but I do think the trouble she causes others might be an issue, not to mention, I don't think her class representative likes her very much.' Added Tsukune.
'Why don't we take it as a chance to help her then. We can make her a better student, after all, if she stops playing pranks and things, won't the class representative be happy with her?' Suggested Kurumu.
'That would be a good idea, especially after Tsukune made trouble of his own when he stepped in, even if Moka stepped in first.' Added Mizore.
'Ok, then it's decided, the Newspaper Club gets a loli with strings attached. Now then, moving on, we only have a few more days left until it is time to publish, so let's see what we've got so far.' Said Gin.
'Well, we already have one article about that slime.' Said Kurumu.
'I have a small section on cooking done.' Said Mizore.
'I wrote an opinion piece about the school curriculum and clubs.' Said Tsukune.
'I was going to do a nice piece on the cafeteria.' Said Moka.
'Don't you only drink tomato juice though?' Pointed out Mizore.
'Yeah, but they have three brands, it is such great variety.' Said Moka, causing the others to stare at her.
'Actually, I've been wondering about that, how does tomato juice give you energy anyway, it isn't anything like blood?' Asked Tsukune.
'Oh! Maybe that's what I should add to my article, the benefits of tomato juice, thanks for the idea, Tsukune.' Said Moka cheerfully.
'Happy to help I guess.' Said Tsukune in confusion, before Moka noticed the clock.
'Oh no, I lost track of time again, I need to go, sorry everyone.' Said Moka, before leaving the group again.
'I wonder what she is up to.' Commented Gin.
'Yeah, like what gives, we were all getting along there and she just up and leaves.' Huffed Kurumu.
'Anyway, none of those stories are a real headline, we need something exciting.' Said Gin.
'What about an interview with Hokuto? He's the Student President, that's big, right?' Asked Tsukune.
'Man, who would have thought you'd have all the good ideas today. Good for you Tsukune, maybe you'll be as respected as me some day with ideas like that.' Complimented Gin.
'We already respect Tsukune more than you.' Said Mizore with a deadpan expression.
Kurumu nodded in agreement causing Gin to huff and Tsukune to laugh.
"Again, Moka leaves while we are enjoying things… what is she doing that is more important to her than spending time with her friends." Thought Tsukune, before his attention returned.
'So, I guess I we could do a section on hair care for boys and girls, I can obviously handle the boy section.' Said Gin, passing his hands through his hair.
'Ha, the beauty of a succubus is unmatched, obviously I would do the section for girls.' Said Kurumu.
'Then Tsukune and I can interview this Hokuto person, I want to meet him myself.' Said Mizore.
'Good idea, maybe if we have time, we can get the opinions of the other class representatives too?' Suggested Tsukune.
'Save that for another issue, focus on the big fish first.' Advised Gin.
Tsukune nodded, before he and Mizore headed out to search for Hokuto.
'Hey Kurumu, aren't you worried about Tsukune going off with Mizore?' Asked Gin curiously.
'Of course not, we have an arrangement, once Tsukune gets Mizore pregnant, I get Tsukune for the next few months.' Said Kurumu, causing Gin to blink.
'Ok, sorry I asked.' Said Gin in confusion, missing the sincerity of Kurumu's statement and passing it off as a joke.
A small homage to Obi-Wan Kenobi and the greatest delivered line in ROTS in the form of a short Omake series.
Omake Series: Hello There – part 1
Tsukune was making his way through the woods, when he heard a sound off to the side.
'Hello there.' Said Tsukune, spotting a handsome looking boy, who appeared to be around his age.
'Ah, Student Representative Tsukune Aono. You are quite brave, calling out into the open so calmly. I'm afraid it was quite a dangerous decision on your part.' Said the boy, before a few other monsters started to approach from the tree line.
Tsukune started to back away slowly, before looking around him, as the four monsters approached, they suddenly fell into an open grave, with three of the four passing out on impact. The fourth attempted to struggle back to their feet, only for Tsukune to drop a medium-sized tombstone on top of their head, knocking them out.
'I see, I will have to deal with you myself.' Said the boy.
'Your move.' Said Tsukune, only for the boy opposite him to take his blazer top off.
Suddenly, two large spikes poked out of the boys back, before transforming into scythes, with his arms also turning into scythes. The boy started to spin the scythes sticking out of his back, before advancing on Tsukune, his arms which had turned into scythes scraping against the ground as he closed the distance.
'Nope, four arms is where I draw the line.' Said Tsukune, before running away.
The mysterious boy caused his extra appendages to shrink down and disappear before putting his blazer back on.
'Leaving before a fight even got started, so uncivilized.' Said the boy, before walking away.