Kurumu regarded her reflection in the mirror of one of the fitting rooms in the back area of Bows and Strings. Her ocean blue tresses were held in an updo which featured her purple lace ribbon. She would probably have to use this illusion for the rest of the year, though it might only be a couple more months before she could wear her ribbon naturally.
Her lavender eyes trailed down her torso, noting her bared breasts and erect pink nipples. She loved how they looked. She absently cupped them, thinking how full, round and perky they were. That was a good thing since this lingerie she had slipped into offered no support.
Kurumu had known from the start how unlikely it would be for the store to have something in her G cup size. She had been quite content with the two boyshort panties she had picked out to go with her new bras. She had a sky blue pair with white clouds and a mint green pair with white clovers. The bras were darker shades, but it would be close enough. She had been at the checkout when Yukari had insisted that she try on this small sized teddie.
This was not something she would ever sleep in. The black lace swirled about in a floral pattern from her navel to the bottom of her bosom which was where the upper hem rested. This thick hem swept over to her side and came up as a strap which looped behind her neck. She supposed this garment could get away with generic sizing when it ignored covering the breasts.
She tugged the bottom hem down her hips and rump till the fabric looked smooth. It covered much of her ass but it had an inconspicuous gap at the very bottom. Even if she had removed her black boyshorts with the white hearts, nobody could tell that this thing was crotchless. She smiled at her reflection, wondering why she would ever want this thing.
Taking in a deep breath, Kurumu turned about and grabbed the curtain. Tugging it slightly aside, she poked her head out.
"Yukari."
The witch was sitting on the bench across from the trio of fitting rooms. She was wearing that sleeveless peach blouse with the velvet, burgundy vest which zipped up her midriff. The blouse was tucked in a pleated, burgundy skirt. This was the first time Yukari had worn it since the fight against Rubi's mentor.
"Does it fit?"
Kurumu glanced at the other girls seated with the witch. Kiki was rocking that backless yellow dress with the white sash which she had worn to her birthday party. Suzume had thrown on a gray tank top and a pair of baggy orchid shorts. And Tora was sporting her golden halter top with a simple pair of black shorts. Since they had gone flying after church service, none of the girls were wearing bras.
"I imagine it fits like it's meant to."
"Then buy it. I'll give you the money."
Kurumu frowned, indecisive about this being in her wardrobe.
"I don't need this."
"Most of lingerie isn't needed. I didn't see what she grabbed for you. What's it look like?"
Kurumu pouted, favoring Tora pleading eyes.
"I'm practically naked."
"It's not that bad. Pretend like you're wearing a swimsuit."
Kurumu laughed. With some prodding on the way to Mononoke, she had convinced Suzume to take part in this teddie acquisition endeavor. The dark blue teddie Suzume had taken to the register had resembled a one piece swimsuit.
"That might work for yours, but this one is different."
Tora sighed dramatically, getting up.
"We're all girls here. Step out so we can see the damage."
Kurumu glanced at the opening which separated this space from the sales floor. It was impossible for anyone out on the street to see her and it was unlikely any guys had randomly walked into the store in the past five minutes. Letting out a breath, Kurumu drew the curtain fully aside and took one step out.
Suzume gasped and Tora murmured a soft expletive. Kurumu felt Yukari's sugary approval while the other girls harbored appreciative thoughts which were less pronounced.
"That is the most erotic thing ever."
Kurumu forced a smile, rubbing her hands against the fabric.
"I see what you meant about it not feeling pleasant on your skin."
Suzume nodded vigorously.
"Yea, there's no way I'd make it through the night sleeping in that. The lace mesh felt itchy to me."
"I don't believe sleeping is the intended activity for that… garment."
Kurumu blushed at Tora's remark as Yukari bounded up to her, hugging her side.
"It's meant to be sexy. Don't you feel sexy?"
"I feel like I'm about to star in an adult video."
"I can understand how a man could say that a girl wearing that is asking for it."
Tora snorted at Kiki.
"If I was wearing something like that, I better not have to ask for it."
"You should get one."
"I'll pass on that, Ms. Sendou. Like Ms. Honda, I don't see the point of acquiring such a thing when I have no intentions of being in a relationship."
"The point is to feel sexy."
Kurumu smiled softly, patting Yukari's head.
"I don't have an issue feeling sexy."
"Yea… I doubt I could ever wear one like that."
"I wouldn't mind having one like yours if they had it in my size. It was cute."
"Excuse me, but these are meant to be sexy, not cute."
Kurumu chuckled. Yukari had selected one almost identical to the one Suzume had purchased. The witch had found a cute pink one with adjustable straps. Unlike Suzume's which had a bikini style bottom, Yukari's pink one fitted like a pair of boyshorts.
"Everything in extra small is going to look cute no matter how hard you try."
Suzume sighed.
"That's the trouble of not having breasts."
"Akashiya is going out to join the-"
Mizore halted her sentence upon seeing Kurumu. Her torso was wrapped up in that pastel blue, long sleeved dress Moka had bought her. The snow girl cocked her head.
"That's different. Does it come with a whip?"
"No. Yukari wants to buy it for me."
Mizore frowned, clutching a plastic bag to her chest.
"When would you wear it?"
"She has a boyfriend outside."
Kurumu managed a slight smile to answer Mizore's empty stare.
"Well… he would only see it on special occasions."
"I can't imagine when I'll wear mine. Maybe a sleepover if I'm feeling feisty and want to tease Hatoko."
"She'll call you a whore for wearing anything sexual."
"Probably true. We'll meet you outside."
Kurumu nodded as Suzume started off with Kiki.
"I'll get dressed."
Ducking back inside the fitting room, Kurumu quickly drew the curtain across. She bowed her head and tugged the strap up and over. With her head free, she rolled the fabric down her sides and kept going. She bent over, wiggling to keep it from catching on her boyshorts as she pulled the garment down her thighs and to her knees. She stepped out of it and chucked it onto the bench with her other clothes.
Snatching up her pink halter top, Kurumu wondered what Moka would think about this lingerie. The sexy white teddie Moka had settled on, featured a thong bottom which was nothing but a string in the back. The busty vampire had barely fit in the thing, but the lacy mesh had enough stretch to somewhat hold her bosom in place.
As Kurumu wiggled into her white denim jeans, she wondered what the other Moka was thinking about this whole thing. It was like night and day between the two. She doubted the other Moka enjoyed shopping for lingerie when it was obvious that this Moka had hopes to show it to Tsukune. She imagined it had to be more frustrating than her situation. But Kurumu had realized something last night.
Both versions of Moka were fine with having sex with Tsukune. One simply had more requirements.
With persistent badgering, Kurumu had convinced Mizore to spend the night with them. Moka had sealed herself up after changing into her pajamas, promptly passing out. Kurumu had chatted another half hour or so with Mizore before drifting off to sleep.
Kurumu had woken up to the inviting aroma of breakfast, courtesy of Yukari. The witch had helped herself into Moka's suite with her sorcery, reasserting her desire to shop for lingerie. She had made some progress with the teleportation spell. While they were flying, the witch had been out in the woods, killing plants with her spell. At least Kurumu hoped it had only been plants.
Kurumu slipped into her platform sneakers which were still a pristine white. As she grabbed the lacy black lingerie and the two pairs of boyshorts, she wondered if Ms. Nekonome planned to stick with them until the start of the party. Their teacher had accompanied Tora to the church, though she had blatantly slept through the mass. Citing something about her duty to their safety, Ms. Nekonome had followed them to the tulip field before escorting them here.
Stepping back out into the room, Kurumu favored the three lingering girls a smile.
"So how much does this thing cost?"
"Thirty five hundred yen."
Kurumu laughed in disbelief, shaking her head as she started for the opening.
"Seems high for what I get."
"I'll say. My stockings have more fabric."
"Your stockings are easier to make."
Mizore shrugged, offering no rebuttal as they entered the sales floor. The boutique was kind of small but adequate for what the store carried. The two walls on either side were slatted with black metal poles mounted into the gaps. Nightgowns and other lingerie with sleeves or straps were slipped onto hangers and arranged on these poles. The sleepwear was towards the front while the more suggestive, erotic things were further away from the casual onlooker's gaze.
Between the walls were some carousels of other hanging garments and shelves stocked with panties, socks, bras and leggings. The counter with the register was up against the back wall which flanked the opening into the fitting rooms. There was another opening through the back wall on the other side which led into a unisex bathroom. There was a locked door back there which either was for the office or might be a janitor closet. It might even be a second way into the stock room, which she assumed was where that door behind the counter went to. It could also be the office. Not that it mattered.
Kurumu flashed a grin upon the young woman behind the counter. She placed the boyshorts and the balled up teddie on the bland, white surface. The dark haired woman sighed, grabbing the wadded lingerie and fluffing it out.
"Are you buying this?"
"Yes."
Kurumu squeezed her hand into the tight pocket of her jeans to tug out the wad of yen she had left. Since Kiki had fussed over her phone last outing and not seeing a point in carrying a CD player around all day when it was unlikely she would ever use it, Kurumu had left her purse behind. Aware that she would not be eating a meal in the dining hall, she had not even bothered to bring her lunch card or the key to her suite. She placed her coins on the counter as the woman rang up her three items.
Kurumu wondered if one thousand yen was a discount price for these boyshorts. They had been marked down to that cost when she had bought her first two pairs back in April. Thanks to the tips those silly Okinawan tourists had thrown at her, she at least had enough to cover those.
"Six thousand three hundred fifty yen."
Kurumu glanced at Yukari.
"How much are you short?"
"About four thousand."
The witch nodded, reaching into her plastic bag. She tugged out a black kinchaku with yellow sunflowers which contained her wallet and toy phone. Loosening the strings, she fished about inside the kinchaku before pulling out a five thousand yen bill.
"I don't need that much."
"You can keep it."
Kurumu smiled, taking the note and handing it over to the clerk. The woman sighed again, sifting through her coins till she had the correct amount. Opening the register with a push of a button, the woman tossed the coins and note inside. Closing it up, she grabbed a store bag and swished it out before stuffing Kurumu's purchases inside. Kurumu swept the remaining pile of coins into her palm before squeezing them back into her pocket.
"Thank you. Come again."
Kurumu took the bag and turned about. With a grin, she started for the door with her friends in tow.
"I wonder if I have enough left to buy a CD."
"Depends on the CD."
"I can buy a CD for Akashiya, though I owe her at least four."
"How much did she spend on your outfits?"
"Almost ten thousand."
Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head as she pushed open the door to let her friends head out. As always, it was a nice, warm day with enough cloud cover and breeze to not be stifling. The rest of their group all stood about on the paved walk which flanked the boutique. The mild conversation stopped as the others acknowledged their arrival.
Moka was hovering next to Tsukune. The vampire was wearing that lavender dress with the ruffled, loose sleeves and the buttons which ran up from belly to collar, though she had left the top ones undone to not trouble her rosary. The dress included a sash which tightened about the waist while the skirt drifted about her knees with a deliberately frayed hem. A black tote dangled from her elbow, which was one of her junior high possessions that she had brought with her from the Estate. It was large enough for Moka to stuff her bag of lingerie into.
Having shown up after the church service along with the Tengu girls, Tsukune was dressed casually in denim jeans and his black tee with the white Dragon Ash logo. That would have to change. His wardrobe was so boring. Even if he wanted to put thought into what he was wearing, there was barely anything nice to pick from. He only owned a couple dress shirts that were not for school.
Next to him was Ms. Nekonome whom was wearing a sleeveless mauve blouse with a frilly collar. The loose garment hung over a denim skirt which ended shy of her knees. The teacher also had a black tote slung upon her shoulder.
"Bouts time ya get out heres."
The tengu girls were all standing together. Hatoko was betraying her womanly assets in that new cream halter top she had on. The fabric of the loose top stretched over her bosom before bunching up at the hem of her baggy jeans. A slim belt with a large black buckle encircled her waist.
"Yukari made a last minute addition to my order."
Michiko grinned, tightening her hold on the hem of her gray sweatpants. The elastic had become so loose over the summer that the silly things would steadily descend her hips without attention. Dressed in that faded black shirt with the torn out back, she had tried to join their weekly activity but had lost her britches within two minutes. It might have been no big deal but the silly girl was flying commando.
"Surprised they got stuff in ya size."
Kurumu smiled softly, holding the bag to her breast.
"It's one of those things that would fit any girl my height."
"How's that work?"
Suzume place a hand on Michiko's arm.
"You would have to see it to understand."
"At least I got two more nice panties. If I'm willing to wear one of my thongs once a week, I might never have to go back to boring briefs again."
Hatoko huffed, crossing her arms below her bosom.
"What's wrong with briefs?"
Kurumu smirked, glancing at Tsukune whom was betraying interest in her declaration.
"Nothing's wrong with them. I need something to go with my ugly, old bras."
Tsukune chuckled nervously, turning his attention to Mizore.
"I see that you bought some things."
Mizore nodded, opening up her bag. Tsukune made a slight cry, thrusting his hand out.
"That wasn't permission to show me!"
Mizore glanced up, cocking her head. Ignoring his warning, she tugged out the contents to betray the soft, silky fabric of her acquisitions.
"They're pajamas. One chemise and one camisole with matching short."
Mizore had been indifferent about the shopping, forcing the other girls to help her pick out the pajamas. Moka had insisted on the pink chemise while the camisole and shorts were a pristine white.
"Oh! That's nice."
"Everybody complains when I sleep naked."
"Of course I would!"
"Why would she be sleeping naked with ya?"
Kurumu sighed heavily as Mizore stuffed her pajamas back in her bag.
"That's a long story."
"I'm trying to make a baby."
"No we're not!"
Michiko faltered back a step with a bewildered look.
"Did I miss something?
"She's joking."
"I wouldn't mind if we did."
"That's different from actually having sex with my boyfriend."
"Bah. This not news to us. She was blabbing about elopement in class."
"There is also the fact that Ms. Kurono requires another woman to carry her child. That was explained to all of us when she was behaving so amorous."
"Yea, but she never confirmed that she was using Ms. Shirayuki."
Kurumu pouted at Suzume.
"We still don't know if that's safe."
"Or if that would even get her out of her arranged marriage."
Kiki perked up at Tora's revelation.
"Oh! That's what this is about."
"Is Mr. Umizake that bad of a guy?"
Tora shrugged at Suzume.
"Not in particular."
"I'm not doing anything with Mizore without at least speaking to her parents first."
"I asked my mother to come to the sports day event. I'm sure Kurumu will do the same."
As Kurumu laughed softly, Yukari and Moka shared a glance.
"Yea. You wanted our mothers to make up."
"That does sound fun. It would be nice to have both of your mothers back in Mononoke. Like old times."
Kurumu managed a smile for Ms. Nekonome.
"Assuming she can come. She does have an actual job now."
"When did Ageha develop a work ethic?"
"It might be out of her control."
There was a long silence following her words. Ms. Nekonome took in a deep breath.
"Well… there's both Sports Day and the Cultural Festival. I hope she will be able to make one of them."
"How much did the pajamas cost?"
She had almost forgotten Rubi was present. The older witch was wearing that long sleeved, burgundy dress which she had worn to the wedding. The black lace layered over the fabric was patterned in vertical stripes with floral designs between. The pleated skirt portion of the dress came down to her knees. Glossy black, platform boots with silver buckles gave Rubi a couple more centimeters to stand taller than Moka whom was only in her beige canvas sneakers.
"The chemise was two thousand."
"That much…"
"Why ya asking? Ya not need those things for sleeping. Any shirt works fine."
Kurumu smiled at Hatoko's gruff tone.
"I don't think Rubi owns any casual things like shirts and shorts."
"Why the hell not?"
"Ya could buy a plain shirt for half that price."
"And how much for panties?"
"No need sleeping with panties if the shirt long enough."
"I don't need them to sleep in. I require them for proper punishment."
Kurumu laughed at the confused looks, stepping over to grab Rubi and pull her close.
"It's her being silly. She doesn't wear panties and we told her that she should wear them. She's acting like it's some form of punishment."
"But Mr. Aono-"
"Take a hint, Rubi."
Rubi bit back her words at Yukari's sharp remark. Wringing her hands, she regarded Kurumu.
"How much for panties?"
"These were a thousand each, but I think you can get a whole five pack of briefs for that."
"More like fifteen hundred. Keep it Casual should have those."
"Should we head over there? I can buy her a pack."
Rubi shook her head at Ms. Nekonome.
"No. I shouldn't take more charity."
"You could pay me back later."
Yukari snorted.
"She would have to find a place willing to hire her."
"She could always swing by the school in the morning. I'm sure the Headmaster could find something suitable for her to do."
"I don't want to walk to school with her on a daily basis."
"Quit ya whining, Sendou."
"Would the school even hire her?"
Kurumu flinched at the sudden attention, releasing Rubi.
"Not saying that they wouldn't, but Rubi doesn't have any teaching experience."
"We have other employees that aren't teachers, Ms. Kurono."
"The most obvious of which are the kitchen staff."
"I can't imagine Rubi as a lunch lady."
"What else could she do?"
"They must have a janitor and someone whom looks after the athletic fields."
"They do have a groundskeeper, but I doubt that would work out."
Kurumu frowned at Yukari.
"Why not? She has years of experience working a sunflower field."
"That old codger is more likely to molest her. She's too gullible to leave in the care of a man."
Rubi squirmed under the scrutiny.
"Am I really that useless?"
"You are."
Rubi shivered at Yukari's barb, closing her eyes.
"We were discussing where to go next."
Michiko nodded at Tsukune's tactful change of subjects.
"Would like to karaoke with Kurono."
"Would rather eat than sing."
Suzume frowned at Hatoko.
"Won't it be too busy now? It's almost noon."
"Depends where we go."
"I need to buy Akashiya a CD."
Moka smiled softly.
"That would be nice. We still need to buy thumb drives for our laptops."
"You can buy one. I'm broke."
"I could buy you one."
"I can borrow yours. I only need it to move my pictures around."
"You could have borrowed mine."
Kurumu frowned at Yukari.
"Why didn't you say something before?"
"You didn't ask me."
Kurumu sighed. Then again, this was the first time she had been to Mononoke so it was not like she could have printed out her photos for Nerume's letter even if she had borrowed Yukari's drive.
"We'll have to look at the costs for printing pictures while we're at it."
"We should eat."
"I'm hesitant to agree with her. Is there anything good playing at the theater?"
"Fuck off, ya peacock."
"As your teacher, I must discourage you from using such rude language."
"Oh. Sorry. Fuck off, Ms. Honda."
Kurumu giggled, shaking her head.
"I don't think we have time for a movie, lunch and the CD store."
"And the electronics store. The music store won't have thumb drives or printers for pictures."
"We still shopping panties for this chick?"
"I am in no rush to do that if someone else has to buy them for me."
"Nonsense, Ms. Toujou. You will pay me back. The concept is no different than using a credit card."
Rubi frowned at Ms. Nekonome.
"What's a credit card?"
Kurumu grinned as Suzume giggled. Michiko thumbed over her shoulder.
"Can't we do an hour of karaoke?"
"Why ya wants to squawk so bad?"
"None of ya business. That goes for both of ya too."
Kiki frowned at Michiko.
"I beg your pardon."
"We'd have to do three rooms if everyone is up for it."
"I'm not singing."
Kurumu snatched the huffing witch, pulling her over.
"Don't be like that. You could sing with me."
"But I don't want to."
"What do you want to do?"
Yukari glanced over at Tsukune. Turning her head aside, she stared vacantly at the ground.
"Bets she rather eat."
"I would prefer that over singing."
"Your voice isn't that bad."
Kurumu laughed at the quick exchange between these other two.
"What do you want to do, Suzume?"
"I'm cool with anything."
"I would like to sing with Tsukune."
Kurumu smiled softly at Moka. The vampire's head was bowed slightly and her cheeks were flush.
"If Moka wants that, I wouldn't mind."
"It sounds like the votes will favor karaoke. We can't have Mr. Aono in a room alone with Ms. Akashiya."
"I'll join them."
Ms. Nekonome nodded at Mizore.
"I can wait down in the lobby with anyone whom doesn't wish to sing if we aren't renting three rooms."
"I'll join them if they don't mind."
Suzume snickered at Kiki.
"I thought you didn't want to sing."
"I'd rather do that than sit in the lobby with her."
Hatoko snorted.
"I'd rather sing than sit on my ass."
Ms. Nekonome clapped her hands.
"Three groups it is then. I believe that means Ms. Hanetsume and Ms. Tobuyoku are with me. Would you prefer our group or Ms. Sendou's?"
"Rubi can be with you. I'd rather have Ms. Nazohashi."
"I have no preference though Ms. Dangai might."
"Naw. Fine with either of ya."
Without any prompting, their group started walking towards the Siren's Lullaby. The three story karaoke building was only a block away on the vacant side of this street. Some years ago a fire had wiped out all the structures south of here with only the Lullaby surviving. As the population of Mononoke had not increased since the incident, nobody had bothered to rebuild the area.
This narrow street ended another block beyond the Lullaby at a huge warehouse which had been converted into a roller rink. As far as she knew, every building from Bows and Strings to Skate On was abandoned. The only noteworthy thing was the theater which was a block north of the Lullaby.
"What should we eat for lunch?"
"Could eat at the Lullaby."
Hatoko snorted at her friend's suggestion.
"Could also die from starvation."
"Is it really that bad?"
Kurumu chuckled as Suzume nodded vehemently. Since the Lullaby had a kitchen, these two girls had tried out the menu once after track practice. Their stories had been convincing enough to deter Kurumu from ever experiencing this torture first hand.
"We could stop at the Raw Deal."
The Raw Deal was a cozy family diner a block further north of the theater. Tsukune was shaking his head vigorously against her suggestion.
"Bottomless Bowls is better and cheaper."
The eatery he mentioned was across the street from the Raw Deal. The wares it sold were closer to what a human could stomach.
"While it is cheaper, I wouldn't say it is better."
"I'd rather not be sick."
"I suppose it might be easier on Yukari and Rubi."
"It's faster if time is a concern."
Kurumu smiled at Ms. Nekonome's input. Nearly broke, she was fine with Tsukune's suggestion. She had only brought up Raw Deal since it was the first place that had popped in her head that was nearby.
In less than a minute they had reached their destination. Walking under the canopy, the double glass doors parted upon sensing their presence. The lobby of the Lullaby faced the intersection and was a large room lined with red carpet. A large mahogany counter topped with white marble enclosed the far corner closest to the entrance.
A dark haired, middle aged man lounged behind the counter, glancing up from his paper. Kurumu could tell from the lettering that it was their most recent issue of the Yokai Times. The manager lifted up off his elbows as Ms. Nekonome crossed the room.
"We will be renting three rooms for one hour each."
"That will be three thousand."
Ms. Nekonome fumbled in her black purse for the notes as the manager bent over to fetch the keys. As their teacher placed the yen on the counter, the manager swapped the currency with the keys.
"Will I need to open the kitchen?"
"That won't be necessary. Thank you."
"Enjoy your stay."
Ms. Nekonome led the way through the wide opening into the start of the main hallway which divided the building. The teacher paused, turning slightly to hold a key out to Tsukune.
"I'll be in the room across the hall if you need anything."
Tsukune nodded as Ms. Nekonome handed another key to Michiko. She then continued down the hall. In a few strides they reached the small lobby area with vending machines and the central stairway which went up to the other floors. There were no elevators for this building, or air conditioning for that matter. An hour in these soundproofed, insulated, windowless rooms could be uncomfortable regardless of the conditions outside.
"Yukari will perform our first song."
"Why me?"
Kurumu grinned as they started up the stairs.
"Because I want to hear you sing."
"I don't want to sing."
"They have songs from Utada Hikaru."
Yukari regarded her with a slight frown.
"I suppose I could try."
"Try? I bet you have the lyrics memorized."
"That doesn't mean I can sing it. I haven't practiced."
"Why did she memorize lyrics to a song?"
"Yukari can memorize anything she reads. I was guessing that might also include things she has heard."
"I only heard your CD once so don't make fun of me if it comes out wrong."
Moka nodded thoughtfully as they turned about the stairs on the second floor and headed up the next flight. She wagged a finger at Yukari.
"She's listened to all of my albums from B'Z, Southern All Stars and Glay."
"I'd be amazed if she could sing that stuff."
Yukari pouted at him.
"Those are guys. I can't sing like a guy."
"Girls can sing songs originally done by guys."
"But it won't sound the same."
Tsukune grinned at Yukari.
"That's kind of the point."
"Then I'll only sing them for you."
Tora smirked as Yukari poorly hid her blush.
"Careful there Tsukune. You're flirting with a little girl."
"What?! That wasn't flirting!"
They arrived at the top floor and veered left. The manager had assigned them the first three rooms closest to the stairs, likely in case they had required his kitchen service. Though it puzzled her why he never seemed to rent out rooms on the first floor. It was not like this place was ever that busy.
As Ms. Nekonome pushed her key into the lock, a flustered Tsukune was doing the same for his door across the hall. Kurumu nodded at him as she followed Michiko down the hall to the next room.
"I'm counting on you, Kiki."
Kurumu grinned at the confused girl as Michiko unlocked their room.
"Those two might get feisty with him. Singing better be the only thing going on in that room."
Kiki blushed with wide eyes.
"I'll… do my best."
A flush Moka shook her head, grabbing Kiki by the arm and tugging her out of sight.
"Don't listen to her. Nothing is going to happen."
"They said an hour was the right amount of time for three girls."
Kurumu rolled her eyes as the door shut behind Mizore. She swore that girl had such an interesting sense of humor. With a slight shake of her head, she entered the room.
Each of these karaoke rooms featured a low black table, a couch and two armchairs. The phone mounted by the door only had service with the front desk. The manager would call them within five minutes of the expiration of their session to see if they wished to continue. A screen was built into this side of the hallway wall which would display the lyrics to the songs they selected from the karaoke machine.
"Okay, Ms. Dangai. I surmise that you must have something you wish to discuss with Kurumu that would be too troublesome to share in the company of your friends."
Michiko settled in the couch as Tora locked up the door.
"Mayhaps. Was thinking bouts if I should ask Noboru out."
Kurumu frowned as Yukari absently picked up the microphone.
"I thought you weren't interested in dating."
"Thing with Tobuyoku got me thinking. Maybe taking granted this thing I have with Noboru."
"Ms. Dangai… we're all still very young. There's little reason for us to dabble in lifelong commitments."
"Knows that. Still. Makes me uneasy. Likes I'm squandering my chances. Life isn't guaranteed. Not like we knows if we have fifty years left or fifteen."
"That isn't an excuse to be reckless."
"Is dating a guy reckless?"
Tora paused, sharing a glance with Kurumu.
"Why couldn't you ask this in front of your friends?"
"Cause thinking might be best to secretly date."
"Huh? Why?"
"Tobuyoku. Feels wrong. Like rubbing it in her face."
Kurumu nodded, sympathizing.
"That's why you didn't want Kiki to know."
"Rights. Thinks she more likely to blab than either of ya."
"It certainly isn't my business if you decide to date Mr. Noboru. Though I think he would also have to agree with this secrecy if you are intent on this course of action."
"Yea… about that…"
Michiko cocked her head.
"How ya ask a guy out?"
"Give me the hardest thing you got."
The dark haired guy behind the polished black counter smirked at her. The collar of his black dress shirt was left undone and betrayed the silver pendant about his thick neck. His sleeves were rolled back to his elbows, baring the bulging muscles of his forearms.
"The only thing hard I got behind this counter is something I can't give to a minor."
Kurumu smirked, feeling the wave of desire swell about her and sink into her core. She hopped up on the stool, planting her elbow on the counter and resting her cheek in her palm.
"So you do have some liquor stashed away."
"I wasn't talking about a beverage."
Grinning, Kurumu turned and motioned for the other girls. Mizore was leaning heavily against Bikiyama whom was wearing a short sleeved, dark green dress with a satin collar which reached her shoulders. The skirt portion hung loosely from her hips and was lined with a satin hem about her knees. Black stockings stretched down into the wedges which graced her feet.
Akari followed in their wake while chatting with Hitomure. Her indigo, sleeveless dress had a keyhole to betray some cleavage. The smooth, silky fabric wrapped tight about her body, ending halfway down her thighs. She was still struggling in those white high heels, admitting she had never worn them before.
Hitomure was one of the better dressed guys at the party, sporting a rich green, long sleeved dress shirt with a black lace spiral pattern. His textured gray slacks were held up by a thick leather belt with a silver buckle. His black shoes reflected the overhead lights.
Senyou was trailing further back with his friend Sasaki Hiroki from class seven and Yamadachi Isamu, another first year from class seven whom was on the baseball team. Senyou had thrown on a black tee with some olive cargo pants. Sasaki, whom had his obsidian locks swept up in a faux hawk, wore a bright red shirt with a gold and black tiger printed in the center. His black jeans had a woven blue and white belt fished through the loops at his waist. He was about the same height as the rest of these guys.
Yamadachi was the only one of this group from Morihochou. His shoulder length, windswept hair had the color of wheat. A pinstripe jersey and faded blue jeans clothed his body. As neither okami girl held any interest in their junior high acquaintance, Yamadachi had been Mizore's reluctant dance partner.
"Almost there, Shirayuki."
Mizore murmured incoherently as Bikiyama helped her up onto the stool. Kurumu steadied the snow girl whom had already fainted once after dinner. Mizore favored her with a pitiful look before sprawling over the counter.
"My friend will need a drink."
The bartender nodded, setting a glass of water out for her. Bikiyama clambered up on the stool next to Mizore while Akari and Hitomure came over to Kurumu's right side. Bikiyama had darkened her curls so the lighter spots were less notable. Shiny pink gloss touched her lips while Akari had boldly donned some cherry red lipstick.
"What time is it?"
The worker placed a glass for Mizore before turning his wrist.
"Seven forty four."
"Shall we head out for another dance?"
Kurumu smirked at Hitomure.
"Shouldn't you at least try to be with a girl whom is available?"
Akari giggled, slipping up on the stool beside her.
"He has been."
"You didn't have to deal with him for hours in Swings."
"I'm the most popular first year guy at Yokai whom is single. You should appreciate my attention."
Kurumu smirked, recalling how much razzing this guy had thrown at Tsukune during their time at Swings. Swings was this huge warehouse near the banquet hall they had use for Kiki's birthday party. It was the tallest building in Mononoke, though nobody had been able to tell her what it had been used for before the new owner had converted most of it into an indoor driving range for golf. With almost forty people showing up for this party, they had been split up into groups of six or seven to use the batting cages. Mr. Fujita had supervised Kurumu's group which included Mizore, Moka, Tsukune, Hitomure and Yamadachi.
"Get over it, Hitomure. You lost to Tsukune by over fifty votes."
"I lost because Aono is dating the top two girls in the school."
"I'm the girlfriend."
"Whatever. My point is that guy wouldn't have even been a finalist if it wasn't for you two."
Kurumu shrugged, seeing little point to contest that.
"Does that matter?"
"I think a guy should be able to stand on his own two feet."
"Mr. Hitomure."
"Satoshi."
Akari grinned at him.
"The article for the baseball team came out days before the contest started. Don't you think that had some factor in your votes?"
"I'd believe that if there had been any softball players nominated."
"There were a few."
"Name them."
Kurumu frowned as he smirked at her. Without a booklet, she could only think of two.
"There's that senior whom is dating a cheerleader."
"Michi. And her girlfriend, Kagayama, was a finalist because of their blatant relationship. You can't claim that your softball article had anything to do with her success."
"Kotori."
"Kashisora has a reputation. Like I said before, the article had little to do with why I snagged a finalist spot. I'm simply the best guy the first year class has to offer."
"Is he still going on about that?"
Kurumu grinned as Senyou slipped between her and Akari, placing his elbows on the counter.
"Can it, Nobuyuki."
"Nobody is interested in comparing you with Aono."
"It bothers me that a former human got ranked the most popular guy in school. Doesn't that feel wrong to you?"
"Not in particular."
"It was kind of funny watching Aono bat. He's not much better than the girls."
"Yea. You would think Kurono here would have more experience holding a stick."
Kurumu rolled her eyes, having heard so much innuendo at Swings. The way these two talked, she would swear they had known each other for years. Yamadachi had already reassured her that this April was the first time he had ever spoken with Hitomure.
"I know it's early, but maybe you should call it a night."
Bikiyama was caressing Mizore's head. The snow girl was having trouble dealing with this environment. Crowded enclosed spaces steadily became unbearable for her, which was why she avoided the cafeteria, every school assembly and had even stepped out for a good portion of Kiki's birthday party.
"She has time for one more dance with me."
Kurumu smirked at Hitomure.
"I would rather dance with my boyfriend."
"Hate to break it to you, but Aono stole off with Akashiya several songs ago."
Kurumu was aware of this but it was not like she worried about Moka being alone with Tsukune. She felt confident that Tsukune would resist anything this Moka might try out of concern for the other one.
"Then I guess I have to spend my time looking for him. Mizore? Can you walk?"
Mizore groaned, causing Bikiyama to chuckle.
"I'll watch over her for you."
Taking a swig from her glass, she let out a heavy breath and slipped off her stool.
"Then I'll shall go."
"And I'll shall accompany you."
Senyou frowned as Akari hopped off her stool only to stumble in her heels.
"Hold on. How can we dance if half the girls go?"
"I presume with your feet."
Sasaki snorted a laugh at Akari's quick response. Kurumu offered a hand which Akari waved off as she started off with short, dainty steps. Kurumu slowly followed while grinning back at the boys.
"Why don't you ask the birthday girl for a dance?"
"Two reasons. First it would be like asking my sister."
"Yea. And dealing with Enoko is a pain."
"That wasn't my second reason, but close. Neither of them have come downstairs since dinner, so I'm not about to chase after her."
Hitomure grinned, grabbing Yamadachi and pulling him in close.
"Why don't you bring Nikki down here? I want to introduce her to my partner."
"You mean you want to tease her."
"Same thing."
Kurumu laughed, shaking her head. She took one final glance at the large room they were in, which was where the dinner had been served. The food tables had been packed up and rolled away at least an hour ago. She wished the staff had left the dessert trays out, since she had not thought to grab some sweets before she started dancing with the boys.
Meetings was a three story building on the corner across the street from the Sumeragi, a bar that she gone to once with her mother to meet some teachers. A couple buildings south was the Pizza Express which had provided the main entrée for today, since this establishment lacked a commercial kitchen. The desserts she had missed out on had been made by Sweet Breads in the market district, whom had also supplied the sweets for Kiki's birthday party.
She followed Akari out into the ballroom which was open to the second floor. Cylindrical lights hung down from the ceiling at different heights, yielding just enough illumination to not be dark. Wall sconces lined the room, casting a rosy glow to make up for the lacking overhead. It was meant to be cozy but she could see how Mizore felt this was suffocating.
A wide staircase went up in the center of the wall on her right. It split halfway up with a smaller flight of steps connecting to the balconies on either side. A double door on either side of the central stair opened into the main entryway. The business office and bathrooms were also up front.
Off to the left was a small, elevated stage which they were not using. Preselected music was playing over the speakers which were in every room Kurumu had been in thus far, including the bathroom. And it was way too loud in the bathroom. The volume they had it set for was meant for these larger rooms.
A small group of guests were milling about on the dance floor with only four couples actually engaged in the act. Unsurprisingly Komida Maemi from the skiing club was dancing with Jiseki Kowa, her boyfriend whom was president of the cycling club. She had not seen Komida since the first time she had visited the skating rink. The young woman had thick, mahogany hair and wore a pinstripe blouse with stonewashed jeans. Jiseki had his dirty blond locks swept up and slicked back. He had left the top buttons of his white dress shirt undone to reveal his silver necklace.
The other three couples amusingly involved a teacher. Akari's aunt, Ikuki, was wearing a simple peach blouse and denim skirt and was paired up with Kinugomi Hoshi from the basketball team. The senior towered over the teacher whom was only about Moka's height. And while Ms. Kibashiro Mizuki was taller than Tsukune, she looked tiny compared to Hoshi's twin brother, Tsuki. Dressed in a simple white polo and khaki capris, the track coach was paying more attention to her footing than her partner.
Kurumu had no idea if it had been deliberate, but the twins were both wearing black tees and denim jeans. The only difference between Hoshi and Tsuki was their hairstyle. Tsuki had his chestnut locks shaped into a tapered fade while Hoshi had his hair pulled back in a curly tail. The twins actually had to duck to go through doors. The only guy she had met whom was as tall as them was Motoharu, a senior in the judo club whom had a deep, sexy voice. Sadly these twins lacked that trait.
The last couple on the floor was Katsukara Nagita whom was playfully holding the hands of her uncle. The shaggy, sable haired girl with butterscotch eyes was as lively as ever, dressed in white shorts and a yellow shirt with white print. Her uncle, Mr. Daijou Mameru, was the cycling club advisor. This lean, gangly man with thinning charcoal locks was their ticket home for the evening.
There were a few other boys on the floor whom looked up at their arrival. Those tall boys with the oily black hair whom she had seen in class ten were the Yabuhame twins. The shaggy haired one was Taro while the one with the short braids was Yuji. They were with three older boys from the soccer team, though Kurumu only remembered Fumusuna, whom was absent from this group.
Kurumu grinned as a familiar song started playing as they made their way to the stairs.
"You should have heard Yukari sing today. She's so adorable."
"You guys did karaoke?"
"Mhm. Right before we had lunch. Maybe you guys could come with us next time."
"I try to avoid karaoke."
Kurumu chuckled as they started up the stairs.
"It's not like Bikiyama would have to sing. Moka was in a room with Mizore and Kiki and she had to do all of the singing."
"Are you under the impression that we make Nozomi sing? She likes to sing, but she's horrible at it. I can't quite describe what her problem is but tone deaf doesn't do it justice."
"You should hang out with us on Sundays. Half of the girls that fly with us are on your track team."
Akari giggled, stumbling up the last step onto the landing. Flush and shaking her head, she drifted over to the flight of steps on her right.
"I think you've forgotten that Mononoke is closed. If we didn't have teachers with us, we would all be in our dorms right now."
Kurumu smiled softly without comment. There had been just enough time to hit up Entertainment and Spinning Discs before coming to Swings. When they had parted ways, Ms. Nekonome had promised she would escort the tengu girls and witches back to the dorms after a quick stop at Keep it Casual to address Rubi's wardrobe shortcomings.
"I think everyone is worried too much."
"We have three missing girls."
"I know. But I worried a good part of yesterday over Kiki not showing up to club and that turned out to be nothing. She had randomly decided to hang out with Hasegawa and Fukai instead."
"Friends of hers?"
"Not really. They're both in her class and Ginei asked her to do an article for their kimono club."
Though Kurumu suspected that had been an excuse to avoid the situation between Moka and Kokoa. The first thing Kiki had talked about on the way to the tulip field was if Moka had settled her problem with her sister.
They arrived on the second floor balcony which wrapped about the entire ballroom. Off to her left was a wide open space above the entryway and offices. There was a stairway up on either side of this area, both leading to a hallway which wrapped all the way about the third floor. Accompanied by two boys, their last escort stood in the center of this space, keeping anyone from heading upstairs.
Mr. Fujita Kyouji sported a short sleeved, periwinkle polo and khaki slacks held up by a black belt with a chrome buckle. The badminton club advisor had his silver locks swept up in pompadour. He had shared very little about himself during their time at Swings, only confirming that he was unmarried and had no reason to believe that would change any time soon. With how tight lipped he was, she was surprised this guy had ever mentioned knowing Kiba's father.
Tanimoto was one of the guys with him. The other with the fluffy, sienna locks was that Horiguchi from the cycling club whom Matsudera had thought was worthy of an invite. Other than the introduction at dinner, the guy had mostly socialized with the other boys from Ashikantai.
"You know… for a girl's birthday party, there's more guys here than girls."
Akari chuckled as she wandered down the balcony away from the teacher.
"Can't be helped. There's more guys than girls. I invited the Ohira cousins but they didn't show up."
Kurumu nodded, aware that several baseball players had passed on the invitation. The older Borohata brother was dating a senior on the softball team and was spending the night in her room. Hitomure had no idea what the younger Borohata and Hatsura were doing, only aware that neither had shown interest in spending time in the batting cages.
"Hitomure mentioned Hajimari and Oshaberi not getting invites."
"None of us making the guest list has met either of those two. I honestly had no idea that Ms. Hajimari was an inugami until Mr. Hitomure enlightened me about her relationship with Mr. Borohata."
They walked through the open doors into the large room over the dining hall. This was meant to be a casino room with dice and card games but most of the tables were empty since the teachers had only requested the services of one dealer, whom was a bald dude with thick glasses and bushy eyebrows. The swarthy man was dealing out cards to the small group of students experimenting with gambling.
Like her friends, Matsudera was all gussied up in this black halter dress with a black sash tied about her waist. The loose skirt rested upon her knees as she cozied up with Fumusuna Touma. She had her chair pushed as close as possible to his and he had his arm draped over her shoulder. Like most of the boys present, he had settled on showing up in a tee shirt and jeans.
His twin sister, Futagi, sat on Matsudera's other side. Like her brother, she had ashen gray locks and jagged bangs, though she had pulled her tresses back in a ponytail while he had shaved most of his short. The senior girl whom ran the skiing club was garbed in some cutoff jean shorts which bared most of her hips and a pink tank top which barely contained her bosom. The skimpy outfit was far sexier than the bland clothes she had worn to the skating rink months ago.
Ota Hatsuko slouched in the chair beside Futagi. The second year from track had shoulder length, smoky black hair which she rolled into curls. The inugami from Ashikantai wore a cream tube top which bared her midriff and shoulders. Her denim skirt exposed most of her tanned thighs.
The young man throwing longing gazes upon Ota was Kiba's older cousin, Akito. He had the same black hair and hazel eyes, though his locks were short and scruffy. He sat at the far end of the table with Kiba between him and the object of his desire. Amusingly both Kiba cousins were wearing jeans and red tops, though his was a crimson polo while hers was just a faded tee.
"Mr. Hitomure is requesting your presence, birthday girl."
Matsudera groaned, nuzzling her face against Fumusuna's side. The young man chuckled, waving his cards at them as Akari came up between Matsudera and Futagi. Kurumu settled in the small space between Ota and Kiba.
"Are you wanting to join us for a game?"
Kurumu shook her head at Kiba's offer.
"I'm just looking for Tsukune and Moka."
"They went with Morioka's group into that big vacant room on the other side."
"What are they doing over there?"
Ota shrugged indifferently.
"Beats me."
"Shuryou and Tsuiseki are with them so it won't be a problem."
"Come on, Nikki. You're not playing the game and you're troubling Mr. Fumusuna."
"I don't mind the cuddling."
Futagi snorted, tossing down two cards which prompted the dealer to scoot two from the deck to her.
"It's the most action you've gotten in all of your high school years."
"Why stop there, Sis? You know I've never had a girlfriend before coming to Yokai."
Kurumu grinned, placing a hand on Ota's shoulder.
"Maybe you have a girlfriend now."
As he chuckled, Matsudera groaned, lifting her head off of him. He rubbed her shoulder as she sighed.
"I don't even know him."
"Come downstairs with me. Dance with some of the boys. You shouldn't be hiding up here."
Akari tugged on Matsudera whom resisted by grabbing hold of her chair.
"I don't want to."
"There's only an hour or so left before they have us go to our rooms. At least meet with Mr. Yamadachi."
"Didn't she already meet him?"
Akari let go of Matsudera to smile at Kurumu.
"No. The baseball team was out of town when we had our study session."
"No offense to Yamadachi, but I think Nikki has found her favorite."
"Shut up."
Kiba toothily grinned, clutching her cards close to her bosom.
"Make me."
Kurumu smiled softly, thinking how this event would transition into a slumber party for the girls after nine. The two male teachers would take the boys back to their dorms while the women would head upstairs and settle into the two rooms they had rented for the evening.
"It is getting close to eight. Moka will be showing signs of fatigue soon."
"You should stay with us for the night."
"I have no pajamas."
And she had no intention of wearing that teddie tonight which Moka had stuffed in her tote.
"You could sleep naked."
Kurumu shivered as her cousin took interest in that idea. She smirked, shaking her head.
"The three of us don't have school uniforms. Unless you guys are getting up real early tomorrow morning, we can't stay."
Akari sighed heavily.
"I still can't believe Ms. Roniushi failed to mention that detail to you."
"It's no big deal. I still have my morning duties to Kokoa which I must attend to."
"I heard that she makes you wear a maid uniform."
Kurumu nodded at Matsudera.
"I have two maid outfits now. Though I don't serve her as much as you might think."
"I wonder how Hatsuko would look like wearing a maid uniform."
Ota smirked at Kiba's cousin.
"Like a maid."
He grinned, sitting up in his chair and setting his cards aside. He shook his head at the dealer whom turned the bid to Fumusuna.
"I didn't know they had places that rent rooms for the night."
"You can't afford it."
Futagi snickered at Ota's quick response. She tossed a chip into the pile.
"I heard from Mr. Daijou that the rooms cost fifteen grand a night."
"How did Ginei afford this?"
"Who said he did? My aunt and Coach Kibashiro split the cost."
"I can't believe they spent over fifty thousand on my birthday."
"Doesn't this town have anything cheaper that I could rent out for like an hour?"
Ota snorted, discarding her hand instead of adding a chip.
"In your case, you'd be looking for one that deals in minutes."
"Is there a story here that I don't know about?"
Kiba sneered at her cousin as she tossed in a chip.
"Akito wormed his way into her panties back in their last year of junior high together."
"And it sucked."
"We were both virgins."
"You came inside me within a minute and just rolled over."
"I was wiped out. I didn't think it would be that good."
"For you."
"Call."
Fumusuna revealed his hand which was a two pair of jacks and sevens. His sister did the same, revealing she had a flush in diamonds. Kiba growled, showing her three aces. Futagi swept up the pile.
"I'll get better with practice."
"I'm not interested in helping you get experience."
"We should be dating."
"That would imply that I actually enjoy your company."
The dealer smirked while shaking his head and shuffling the cards.
"Why did you have sex with him if you don't like him?"
Ota sighed at Kurumu.
"It was the last month of school. I was depressed about my sister getting married and curious what sex was like. This brat had been ogling me for over a year, so when he pushed for it, I let him go all the way."
She huffed as she picked up the cards being dealt to her.
"Now all he ever does is talk about getting another chance."
Futagi smirked, regarding her developing hand.
"You would have enjoyed it more if you had been in heat."
"Ooo… bad move, dude. You shouldn't mess with a girl when she's not in her cycle."
Kurumu frowned at Fumusuna's remark.
"Wouldn't it be worse to take advantage of a girl in heat?"
"The community will frown upon it if it's not a sanctioned relationship, but the girl normally won't."
"Mhm. I still fondly think of Ryouchou."
"Ryouchou?"
"An okami from Ashikantai whom graduated when we were first years. Sis still writes to him."
Futagi huffed, holding her cards to her bosom.
"You make it sound like he doesn't write back."
"I know Ryouchou. He's friends with my brother."
Fumusuna chuckled, lifting his hand off Matsudera's shoulder to tousle her hair.
"I bet this young lady would adore me even more if I abused her next cycle."
"Don't even joke about that. You know how difficult it has been for me these past two years."
"I know. I don't want to break a poor girl's heart."
Matsudera pouted.
"I'm not that interested. The other guys scare me and you seem safe."
"Touma has always been easy to get along with. Are your parents coming to Sports Day?"
Futagi shrugged at Akari.
"I don't know about Sports Day, but they'll be here for our last cultural festival."
"Yea. Our little sister will be with them to scope out the place. She graduates junior high this year."
"Mmm. I'll have to convince Yoshiko to join track."
"You have a little sister?"
"They do. You should meet his parents."
Fumusuna grinned, withdrawing his hand from Matsudera.
"I'm fine with her being only a cuddle companion."
"I wouldn't mind meeting your parents."
Kiba snickered, setting down three cards for the dealer to change out.
"Careful there, Nikki. You'll end up a bride saying things like that."
"Shut up."
Kurumu smiled, noting Kiba already had a pair of threes while Ota had three hearts.
"Why hasn't your cousin tried to take advantage of Ota's cycle?"
"Oh, he's tried. He's always talking about her."
Ota snorted.
"Helps that it hurt when we first did it. Even when I get all horny, the thought of using him to sate those urges doesn't interest my body."
"You need to get over it, Hatsuko. Guys don't have cycles. If you're ever going to get married, you'll have to get used to having sex outside of perfect conditions."
"Why should I have sex if I don't want it?"
"Because it's like a wife's duty."
"Since when did sex become a chore?"
Kiba's cousin frowned.
"But a wife is meant to look after her husband's needs."
"Then I'll find a husband whom doesn't need sex from an unwilling partner."
"That's not the point. A guy doesn't want sex from a girl that doesn't want it."
"But it's her duty to give it to him even when she doesn't want it."
He growled in frustration.
"She's supposed to want it. Why would you marry a guy you don't want sex with?"
"Precisely why I won't marry you."
Kurumu grinned as the guy tossed out his hand after getting a card from the dealer.
"You two seem to get along."
"It's a small town and we've known each other forever."
"So… you think of him like a brother?"
Ota paused, wagging her cards. The dealer had given her an eight which gave her a pair.
"It sounds sick when you put it that way. I guess he's more like a childhood friend."
"Childhood friends can become lovers."
Ota rolled her eyes at him, tossing her cards down instead of adding a chip to the pile.
"That's a lazy excuse to not find yourself a real girlfriend. There has to be another inugami girl at Yokai."
Kurumu was unsure about that. She glanced at Akari, whom shook her head with a slight smile.
"Are there any other inugami girls at Yokai that I don't know about?"
"That's his problem, not mine. Even if there isn't, he can settle for a human girl when he goes to college."
"If he goes to college. Akito is kind of dumb."
Kurumu smirked at Kiba's declaration, aware that the girl was on the board of shame for the first years.
"Well… I should be getting Moka before she passes out. I hope you've had a good birthday party."
Akari snickered, grabbing Matsudera by the arm and tugging.
"We are not leaving this room without her. She has to at least dance with Mr. Yamadachi."
Matsudera whined as she slipped off the chair onto her toes. She had been wearing heels earlier.
"Do I have to?"
"Yes, you do."
"Good night, Ms. Kurono."
Murmuring her farewells, Kurumu retreated from the room with Akari and Matsudera. It took almost a whole minute to cross the room since Akari was struggling in her heels and Matsudera was shuffling her feet and whimpering all the way to the door.
"Why are you being so upset? Are you not enjoying your party?"
"I thought he would ask me out by now."
Kurumu stumbled a step as they walked out onto the balcony. She frowned at the pouting girl.
"But… you said you weren't interested."
"I can't say that I am if he's not going to ask me out."
"And he probably won't. His sister cried a lot those first months after Mr. Ryouchou graduated."
Kurumu grimaced, sensing his dilemma.
"Should she ask him out?"
"I can't do that!"
"She should meet his parents first. If things go well, then dating might be possible."
"Do you think he'll ask me out?"
"I don't know. But the situation is different. Mr. Ryouchou had no younger siblings while you could end up good friends with Yoshiko. It won't be an entire break from him when he graduates."
They were already back to the start of the stairs. Kurumu drifted away from the pair whom were intent on going down.
"I'll be back for Mizore soon. Let Mr. Daijou know."
"Good luck with Mr. Morioka."
Kurumu snorted as she walked off into the open space above the entryway. She felt Mr. Fujita and those two boys appreciate her appearance. While it was not that much different, it always bothered her when she got these feelings from older men. Middle aged men had no business thinking nasty thoughts about a girl her age. She smiled at them, nodding politely.
Once on the other side, she kicked up her feet into a slight jog. It only took a few seconds to reach the open doors for the other large room. Unlike the casino, this room had a small stage in the back and was mostly vacant with no immediate signs of Ginei's group.
"Left hand red."
Hajihachi's voice had an amused tremble to it. The group was tucked away in the front corner of this room. Moka was sitting on a couch with her back to the door and Roniushi was beside her. Hajihachi stood away from them, holding a placard and grinning at the boys.
As Kurumu strolled closer to the spectacle, she tried hard not to giggle. Tsukune was playing a game of twister with the four second year boys. If she had her phone, she would have snapped a picture so Kana could have more material for her next raunchy comic strip.
Hajihachi Mika had her wavy, smoky black hair done up in twin tails. She had squeezed into a tight, pink dress which probably could hold itself up without those thin straps resting on her tanned shoulders. It was a short dress too, barely covering her rump. She stood taller than Tsukune even without her heels.
The silver pigtailed Roniushi had shown up in this silky white dress which looked like lingerie but it did stretch down to her calves. The girl glanced up with cerulean eyes when Kurumu touched her shoulder. They shared a smirk as Hajihachi warbled out the next instruction.
"Right foot yellow."
Moka remained oblivious to her presence. The vampire was holding her CD player with her earphones in place. On Tsukune's recommendation, Mizore had picked up two L'Arc en Ciel compilations which she barely had enough money for. Like the Mr. Children albums Kurumu had picked up, these featured the greatest hits for this band.
"Kurumu!"
Tsukune's eyes were wide as his face hovered near Ginei's. Ginei turned his head slightly, his lips quickly turning into a smirk. The werewolf was wearing a burgundy, crushed velvet shirt and gray textured pants.
"This is exactly what it looks like."
"Right hand blue."
Ginei was deliberately making things uncomfortable for Tsukune, picking a circle to maximize discomfort. Tsuiseki chuckled, standing straight up with his hands in the air. His ashen locks were a wild mess and he had a beauty mark below his left eye. The basketball player was not that much taller than Ginei and was sporting a gray tank top with crimson lettering. His top hung over his white track shorts.
"I am not putting my face in Kenshin's ass. I'm out."
"I thought you guys in basketball were close."
Tsuiseki shook his head at Korogaru's comment, stalking over to the couch.
"You can fondle his balls."
Korogaru Kajiru smirked, deftly placing his arm through Shuryou's legs to touch the blue spot on the mat. The silver haired cousin of Roniushi whom was on the baseball team was dressed in a short sleeved, navy blue dress shirt tucked in black slacks.
"That was a joke."
"I'm not touching you."
"Left foot green."
Shuryou Kenshin grimaced as he tried to wiggle out of his compromising position. The sleeves of his soft blue shirt were rolled back while his black tie brushed across the mat. He swung his leg swathed in loose khakis over but his foot slipped out from position and his rump hit the mat.
"You're out."
Scowling, Shuryou scooted off the map and got on his feet. The tall okami guy had frosted the tips of his jet black bangs with silver. He had intense, cool mint eyes.
"Stupid game."
"It's more fun to play with mixed genders."
Shuryou smirked at Roniushi, plopping down on the cushion beside her.
"I'm surprised you didn't join the game."
"I only play twister with Kajiru."
"Right foot red."
"He must be really good at it, considering how flexible you are."
"He likes it when my ankles are behind my head."
Korogaru laughed, falling on his ass despite there being no conflicts with the other two.
"I am going to stuff my sweaty sock in that dirty mouth of yours."
"Why not my panties?"
Korogaru smirked, stalking over to the couch.
"Are you even wearing panties?"
"Why don't you find out?"
"Left hand green."
"You should dial back the brother complex, Chiku."
"He's not my brother. He's my cousin."
"What would you do if I ever succumbed to your charms?"
"Get pregnant."
Korogaru shook his head, turning his cerulean eyes upon Kurumu.
"Can you believe this tart actually thought about joining a refined club like dance?"
"We have a dance club?"
"Right hand yellow."
"It's only you and me, Tsukune. And I'll never lose to you."
Tsukune collapsed on his back against the mat, shaking his head.
"Too close."
Ginei chuckled, springing up from the mat and shaking his hands overhead.
"I've won, yet I still feel like I've lost."
"At least you didn't kiss him this time."
Kurumu's eyes widened at Hajihachi's cheery remark.
"He kissed Tsukune?!"
"Oh! Kurumu. When did you get here?"
Kurumu shook her head at Moka's sudden awareness.
"He kissed Tsukune?"
"As a joke."
"Dropped him out of the first game right away."
Tsukune grimaced at Ginei as he got to his feet.
"I didn't expect it."
Korogaru smirked, shaking his head.
"Nobody did."
"Well… Moka was watching us so intently that I couldn't disappoint her."
"Which is why I haven't paid any attention since. I take it that it's almost time to go?"
Kurumu nodded, still shocked from this revelation. Ginei kissed Tsukune before she did. But she had kissed Tsukune. Sort of. Never long and why was she thinking Ginei would kiss Tsukune for long.
"You didn't put your tongue in his mouth, right?"
Ginei blinked at her.
"Uh… no. That wasn't required to shock him into falling on his ass."
"Okay. I guess that's fine."
Shuryou snickered, shaking his head.
"Man, Morioka. What are you doing in your club to get that sort of question?"
Korogaru chuckled, patting his cousin's head.
"That dance club you seem unaware of is ran by Ms. Akiramochi."
"Whom is a total bitch. I don't know how she even got nominated for the contest."
Tsuiseki barked out a laugh at Hajihachi's remark.
"Because she's sexy. Even a sexy bitch will turn some heads."
"I can't wait till Hitsumi's friends take over that snobbish club. Wanda said they couldn't get any first years to join them."
"Sazanami and Sairyuu are venerable saints to put up with that woman."
Shuryou waved a hand dismissively.
"They're undines. Most of them are too laid back for their own good."
"I guess. And Tonda is clueless. I doubt she even knows what year it is."
Shuryou shrugged at Hajihachi.
"I don't know Ms. Tonda but she does well academically."
"Being book smart doesn't mean she can't be dumb."
"That makes no sense."
"Maybe we could do an article for that club?"
"Not this year. But I'm sure Hitsumi would appreciate us releasing an article for them early next year. They'll need some new blood or that club will die out."
"Are you still thinking of running for student council president?"
"This dog? He doesn't stand a chance."
"I think you're jealous of my infamy, Shuryou."
"Nobody is going to vote for you."
Ginei grinned mischievously.
"I'm the most popular second year on campus. If I were to convince any reputable lady to be my running mate, I'd say I have an excellent chance of winning an election."
"What girl would ever put up with you?"
Ginei smirked at Hajihachi.
"Hitsumi."
"She'd never do it. She doesn't want to get involved in student politics."
"I have a few other girls whom might be willing."
Kurumu shook her head in unison with Moka, prompting Tsukune to chuckle.
"I think you can rule Tora out of your options. You'll need her to run the newspaper club if you somehow manage to win an election."
"Oh ye of little faith. I could always put you in charge of your harem."
Kurumu smirked as Tsukune flubbed over a response.
"Speaking of Tora, have you smoothed things over with her yet?"
"Kurumu. It's only been a week. I think she needs a little more time to get over things."
"What did you do?"
Ginei turned a grin upon Hajihachi's stern inquiry.
"I discovered that she has the same spinal nerve that you do. She wasn't happy about me making her tail come out."
Hajihachi's eyes widened and she shook her head in disbelief.
"Why would you do that?"
"Curiosity."
"Don't you have any idea how arousing that is?"
"That nerve?! You shit!"
Ginei laughed at Roniushi's amused outburst.
"Yea. She's really upset with me."
"No duh! That must have been so embarrassing for her."
Ginei nodded, waving both his hands down.
"I know, I know. I thought it was funny, but I was wrong. And presently, she's in no mood for an apology."
"What is this nerve you're talking about?"
Hajihachi glanced at Tsuiseki and shook her head.
"That's something to ask your dad."
"Or I could tell you. This brat showed me how to do it on her."
Hajihachi looked at Roniushi with disbelief.
"Chiku!"
The girl blushed, bowing her head.
"What? It was a learning experience."
"I hope her tail wasn't the only thing that got whipped out."
"I don't know how I retained my sanity that day, but I got out of there with my virginity intact."
"So this is something sexual… okay."
Kurumu giggled at Tsuiseki's clueless remark.
"You did something like that to Tora?"
Ginei took in a deep breath, relaxing his shoulders. He regarded Tsukune and Moka.
"I get it. I embarrassed her. That's why I haven't really tried to do anything but coordinate this party for Matsudera this week. I even avoided talking with Kousuke despite him being the best lead I have to get started on my articles."
"Is that why he's not here?"
Hajihachi shook her head with a soft smile.
"No. I told him about our party since he's in my class but he brushed it off. Said he had more important stuff to do with the PSC. I still can't believe he lost his arm."
There was a long moment of silence.
"Well… I came up here to fetch Moka because I figured she'd be exhausted."
Moka smiled, putting her CD player into her tote.
"I think being unsealed a whole day restored some of my strength. I'm not tired at all."
"Maybe we could have our own slumber party when we get back to our suites."
"That could be fun."
Ginei clapped his hands and darted over to Hajihachi's side. The girl frowned when he place his hands on her shoulders and pushed her forward slightly.
"Yes, yes, but before everyone runs off for the evening, Mika here has an important announcement."
"I do?"
"Yes. I believe that you have an important question to ask me."
She frowned, glancing over her shoulder.
"What are you-"
She whimpered as her lips were caught in Ginei's. She staggered back, but Ginei quickly slipped his hand about the small of her back to keep her close.
"Morioka!"
Shuryou hopped to his feet but Korogaru lunged over to grab the taller guy by the shoulders.
"Don't."
"What do you mean? He's taking advantage of her."
"Does that look like resistance?"
Hajihachi had pushed back on Ginei's shoulders to break the kiss. Her head was bowed and her eyes averted with a slight blush on her cheeks.
"Dummy."
"That's not a question."
Hajihachi pouted. Ginei gave her a small peck on the tip of her nose.
"Back off from her."
"Oh quit it, Kenshin. I swear you have a sister complex."
Shuryou glared at Roniushi.
"She's not my sister!"
Korogaru snickered, backing off a step but remaining between Shuryou and the couple.
"Or even his cousin. You're really off base here, Chiku."
"Whatever. We grew up together so you're not men to us. Give it a rest."
"Ooo harsh."
Kurumu smiled at Tsuiseki whom had a goofy grin on his face and his arms crossed.
"We grew up together, dork."
"Our bond is deeper."
Ginei slipped a hand up to push on Hajihachi's chin.
"Where's that question I'm supposed to get?"
"I don't know what you're talking about."
"Do I have to kiss you again?"
Hajihachi huffed, letting him lift her face but her eyes remained averted.
"Yes."
The kiss he placed on her lips seemed the most genuine one Kurumu had ever witnessed. Moka absently touched her breast, watching the exchange intently while Tsukune's attention was upon the vampire. Kurumu felt a sad longing, lowering her gaze.
"Kiss me Kajiru."
"Quiet, brat."
Shuryou huffed, stalking around the couch and heading for the door.
"This is dumb. You shouldn't do this in front of others, Morioka."
Ginei broke off the kiss, chuckling softly as Hajihachi rasped out a breath.
"Yea. But it has to be this way."
"Come on, Shohei. We can ask for details later."
Tsuiseki turned slowly about before jogging off to join his friend. The pair left the room as Hajihachi pouted in Ginei's arms.
"Stupid."
"Where's my question?"
"You should ask me the question."
Ginei smirked, tapping her nose with his finger.
"Fine. When will you ask me out?"
"Never."
"Really? I guess that means I'll have to keep holding and kissing you until never becomes now."
Hajihachi whimpered.
"Ask me out."
"I did. You said no."
"Of course I said no. You keep flirting with other girls."
"And I am learning the errors of my ways."
Hajihachi pouted as he placed a kiss on her forehead.
"So… you'll stop flirting with other girls?"
"That's not the question I want to hear."
"You're not getting that question unless you answer mine."
"And how will you define flirting?"
Hajihachi huffed, turning her face aside.
"You know what flirting is."
"You would refuse to date me over nice words said to another girl?"
"You only say those things to make a girl like you."
"Seems unreasonable that I would have to be hated to be with you."
Kurumu smirked.
"Trust me, Hajihachi. As long as he isn't trying to grab my tits or ass, I'm fine with empty words."
Hajihachi yipped when Ginei's hands slipped down to give her rump a squeeze. She blushed, tightening her hands in fists upon his shoulders.
"Don't do that!"
"If I have to stop with all the other girls to be with you, you'll have to endure all that I have to give."
"Ginei! This dress will slip up if you do that!"
"Are you going to ask me the question?"
"Fine. Will you at least stop touching other girls?"
"I can live with that. Only gets me in trouble."
Kurumu snorted.
"About time you figured that out."
Ginei chuckled, boldly massaging Hajihachi's ass. The dress had hiked up so far in the back that it looked like the girl was either wearing a thong or nothing at all.
"Where is my question?"
"Will you kiss me?"
Ginei promptly caught Hajihachi's lips up another time. Kurumu bit her lip as the two moved their heads in this kiss. Hajihachi slipped her hands off his shoulders to clasp about his neck. She mewled against him as she pressed in close, ignoring his hands which tugged her dress up to her waist.
"Kajiru."
"No."
Roniushi pouted, pushing out her lower lip and cocking her head.
"Please."
"There are several nice guys downstairs. You should be dancing with one of them."
"I don't want a nice guy."
Kurumu giggled as Ginei finally broke his kiss with a gasp. Hajihachi's bushy tail had slipped out, hiding his hands and her butt. The smoky black appendage whisked about sensually.
"So… question…"
He was so breathy it was humorous. Hajihachi moaned happily, nuzzling her face against his throat. She murmured something unintelligible.
"What was that?"
Hajihachi took in a deep breath and lifted her head back.
"Marry me."
Ginei's eyes widened and Korogaru snickered.
"I think we're skipping a few steps here."
"You won't?"
"Good luck on this."
Ginei threw pleading eyes at the snickering Korogaru.
"We can't. Right?"
"The elders can approve of a young marriage."
"I… haven't met the elders. I haven't even talked with her parents."
"Can't you say yes?"
Ginei peered down at the girl in his arms whom was looking up at him expectantly.
"It feels wrong. I don't even have a ring. We can't just-"
Hajihachi leaned up and kissed Ginei to cut off his words.
"I'd marry Kajiru without a ring."
"You stay out of this."
"Marry me."
"No. Our families would never approve."
"We could run away together."
"That's it."
Korogaru leaned over and grabbed Roniushi. The girl squealed happily as he tossed her up on his shoulder and started for the door.
"We're finally going to do it."
"No. I'm going to sell you to one of the guys downstairs. Lowest bidder."
Kurumu chuckled as the cousins finally left the room, allowing her to focus on Ginei's situation. He breathily pulled out of another kiss which had clearly involved tongues. Hajihachi's tail wagged about as she pressed in to lick his ear, murmuring something. Ginei groaned, giving her rump a squeeze.
"If you say so then yes."
"Oh? Did you agree to marry her?"
Ginei chuckled breathily as the girl nibbled on his ear.
"Yes. So you can all stop fretting over my love life."
Kurumu grinned, supposing that was one way to settle things.
