Kurumu groaned as a weight settled on her midsection. Then something prodded her cheek. Kurumu sucked in a deep breath, squeezing this soft thing in her arms. She nuzzled her face against the pillow, wanting to stay in this lovely dream fleeing her awareness. The details quickly blurred, but it was with Tsukune and he was poking her with something much better than a finger.

"Go away."

The antagonist atop her shook her shoulder roughly.

"Get up."

Kurumu pouted as her eyes fluttered open. She was lying on her side on the couch, wearing a long, pink shirt which could cover her rump. She could feel the hem of it was bunched at her side beneath her adversary. There was a strong, sexy aroma in the air. Her aching loins yearned for attention, though she would have to reach around a vampire's hip to get to it.

"No. Staying with Tsukune."

A finger poked her cheek.

"Bathe me."

"No."

"You dare to refuse your Lady?"

Kurumu groaned, pushing the pillow away. She let out a heavy sigh, rolling onto her back. The vampire shifted atop her but remained in place. Kurumu blinked a couple times as her vision focused.

"You're naked."

"I want my bath."

Kurumu absently reached for Kokoa's hands. The vampire took hold of hers, intertwining fingers.

"What time is it?"

"Time to attend your Lady."

Kurumu sighed as Kokoa squeezed her hands. She had stayed up with Kokoa until the girl had regained her normal body around eleven. Prior to that, Kurumu had made dinner and had listened to Moka's double disc album from Southern All Stars while Kokoa watched one of her pirate movies. They had barely talked despite sharing the whole night together alone.

With how small their dosage of potions had been, they had made it back to Rubi minutes before their bodies had returned to normal. The sisters' truce ended immediately with Kokoa refusing to spend the night with Moka. Moka had agreed to stay with Yukari whom was probably still a toddler.

"I can't do anything with you on me."

Kokoa released her hands. Easing off to Kurumu's right, the vampire crawled over the side of the couch. She regarded Kurumu expectantly.

"Well?"

Kurumu took in a deep breath, stretching her arms over her head and her legs out. She lifted up on her shoulders, thrusting her bosom out as she reveled in the sensation. Relaxing on the couch cushions, she was tempted to close her eyes but could feel Kokoa's glare. Letting out a sigh, she rolled onto her belly and slipped off the back of the couch.

As Kokoa retreated to the bathroom, Kurumu tugged her shirt off and slung it over at Moka's closet door. She had never thought much about her pajamas until Kokoa had bought those chemises for her back in July. Before then it had always been whatever top she felt like sleeping in, usually coupled with some boring briefs.

Packing for the summer break had started a new routine. She would wear her three chemises and her black and gray tank tops and shorts. She was thinking to add that pink shirt into her weekly pajama rotation since she had two other pink tops which were nicer.

She slipped into the bathroom, closing the door behind her. The tub was filled with steamy water. A black towel rested on the toilet lid. Stacked on top of the towel were Kokoa's black loofa and the tangerine bodywash and shampoo.

"Are you planning to rinse in the bath?"

Kokoa plopped her butt on the stool with her back to Kurumu.

"That's for you."

Kurumu smiled, hunkering down behind the vampire. She reached over to fetch the shower wand.

"That was nice of you."

"I still expect a prompt breakfast. You should wash yourself with me to save some time."

Kurumu laughed softly, turning on the spray.

"Yes, Milady."

Since she had been given permission, Kurumu started by waving the wand over her own head to soak her tresses. She rubbed her free hand through her locks until they felt drenched. With water dripping down her shoulders, she did a quick spray of her torso before scooting in closer to Kokoa.

The vampire whimpered when the water struck her. Grinning, Kurumu brought the wand over Kokoa's head as she worked her fingers through Kokoa's thick hair. A subtle crackling of energy permeated the room as Kokoa's hair matted against her pale skin. Rivulets trickled down her back, dripping on the floor.

Shivering, Kokoa handed the shampoo bottle over her shoulder. Kurumu ignored the offer, leaning over to cut off the water first. Setting the wand aside, she took the bottle and squeezed some gel into her palm. Putting the bottle on the floor by her knee, Kurumu worked the shampoo into Kokoa's tresses.

"I wish you would find those killers instead of fooling around with your club nonsense."

Kurumu smiled, working her way up to Kokoa's scalp.

"I'll be having lunch with Tora and the PSC today. They might have news for me."

"They better. If not, I will be forced to take matters into my own hands."

"Your mother-"

"I don't care what Mother said. I can't lose Nagisa."

Kurumu continued working her fingers about Kokoa's scalp. The girl let out a happy moan, pushing her head back against Kurumu's digits.

"Have some patience, Kokoa. Your Nagisa isn't going anywhere."

Kokoa sighed when Kurumu withdrew her fingers. Grabbing up the bottle, Kurumu squirted some more gel into her palm.

"Mr. Miyamoto is strong."

Kurumu smiled softly, working the shampoo into her own tresses.

"You didn't seem to think so yesterday."

"He held back the whole time. Even when I was bigger."

"Are you admitting defeat?"

"No. He never properly fought with me. And he refused my rematch."

"He's not going to fight an adorable little girl."

"I was surprised when those boys jumped me afterwards. You guys saved me back there."

"Bodywash."

Kokoa made a slight sound, handing over the bottle for the bodywash and loofa. Kurumu popped open the top and squirted some soap into the loofa.

"Are you going to join his club?"

"No way!"

Kurumu chuckled, scrubbing Kokoa's back. The girl shuddered as Kurumu worked up a lather.

"So I'm guessing you won't be making a formal apology."

"I dare him to protest after what he did."

Kurumu smiled, spreading the lather across Kokoa's slender arms.

"Those weren't guys from the karate club, Kokoa. Sure, Nakai and Jindai both were, but I think the rest of them were Outcasts."

"I don't care whom they were. It bothers me that a skilled opponent would stoop to such measures."

Kurumu shrugged, having no reason to defend one of Ginei's buddies. She squirted more bodywash into the loofa, electing to attend to her own torso before taking care of Kokoa's front.

"Why don't you join the fencing club?"

"I might do that."

"Or the tennis club."

"No."

"Why not?"

"Because I can't replace Mizumi."

Kurumu knew there was no point to argue that. She continued scrubbing down her body, letting out a little gasp as she did her more tender spots.

"Finish scrubbing me."

Kurumu shivered, picking up the bodywash to add more soap to the loofa. She crawled around to Kokoa's front, smiling at the girl as she pressed the loofa to her chest. The vampire mewled when she brushed against her erect nipples.

"We'll both smell the same."

Kokoa closed her eyes, spreading her knees apart. Kurumu worked her way down Kokoa's belly, tending to her legs next.

"Milady is enjoying her bath too much."

"Why don't you have sex with him anymore?"

Kurumu flinched. She resumed working on Kokoa's calves.

"We don't have to have sex all the time."

"You used to smell of him. Even back home."

"We would if someone didn't insist that I wait on her hand and foot."

Kokoa stared down at her dubiously.

"I've given you plenty of opportunities. Something else is going on."

Kurumu slipped the loofa up Kokoa's inner thigh, causing the vampire to gasp.

"We haven't for a couple weeks. It's no big deal."

"Higher."

Kurumu smirked as Kokoa grabbed her shoulders and scooted forward on the stool.

"Milady can attend to that need on her own."

"But it's better if someone else does it."

Kurumu grinned, pushing the loofa into the vampire's nethers. The girl mewled and pushed back, making it difficult to attend that area. Shaking her head, she pulled her hand away. She tossed the loofa into the tub, reaching for the wand.

"Don't stop."

"Oh hush, you naughty girl."

Kokoa whimpered as Kurumu turned on the water.

"Did Mother tell you to give up on him?"

Kurumu paused, holding the wand. Water sprayed upon the tiles between them.

"No. She didn't."

"Don't let her have him. My sister deserves better than him."

Having no response to that, Kurumu turned the water upon the vampire, causing the girl to squeal.


"And that shall be all for today. Please review these sections. We will be having an assessment tomorrow. If possible, pass those news on to those whom are absent. It would be nice to have everyone in class."

Kurumu tucked her notebook into her schoolbag hanging off the side of her desk. Abe sighed heavily.

"Pity that sexy Yukari won't be having lunch with us."

Yukari huffed indignantly, putting away her things.

"When have I ever had lunch with you?"

"I will say that having a taller lab partner is preferable."

"I don't see how my height makes a difference in chemistry."

"Height can play a factor in body chemistry."

Yukari rolled her eyes at Senyou's remark.

"I don't want an explanation for that."

"None of us do, Ms. Sendou."

Kurumu smiled at Kumiko as she got up from her desk. Both desks behind her were vacant now that Madosuki had decided to join the boycott.

"Could you pass word on to Madosuki and Hazumi about the tests tomorrow?"

"It doesn't matter to me if those idiots drop out of school."

"That's pretty harsh, Ms. Hineri."

Kumiko huffed at Juri, strolling by Abe without offering a response. Senyou paused at Yukari's desk as the witch got up from her seat.

"Will you be stopping by the cafeteria again?"

"I will be going to the school store with my Moka to acquire our lunches."

Senyou chuckled, reaching over to tousle Yukari's locks, much to her displeasure.

"Have fun with that, Sendou."

"Shoo, you mangy mutt."

Senyou smirked at Satsuki whom stepped up by him and crossed her arms. Shaking his head, Senyou started off with a chuckling Abe.

"Hey, Kurumu."

Kurumu glanced at Juri as they both stood up.

"Yea?"

"Nakai said something in lab about a bunch of little girls mauling his karate captain. Would you happen to know anything about that?"

Kurumu grinned, glancing to the back of the classroom. Nakai and the rest of the boys in the back row had all exited the room by now.

"What makes him think that?"

Juri shrugged as she followed Kurumu to the front of the class.

"He says that he saw a tiny Sendou and a kid version of you standing over the unconscious bodies of his captain and older brother."

Yukari huffed indignantly as she joined their walk to the door. Deshi was in front while Satsuki sauntered alongside them.

"Mr. Nakai is clearly hallucinating."

"How does a bunch of little girls defeat his karate captain anyways?"

"I know. It sounds dumb. But since he said it involved you two, I thought I should mention it."

Tora was waiting for them out in the hallway by the back door.

"You're out here early."

"Yea. The bell hasn't even rang yet."

Tora shrugged as she fell in step with them.

"There wasn't a lecture today."

"Why not?"

"We took a quiz."

"I'm doomed."

Yukari snickered at Kurumu's grimace, turning right at the first crossover.

"Good luck, Kurumu."

"You reap what you sow."

Juri giggled at Satsuki's comment, nodding as they continued on without the witch.

"Shall Ms. Morisato be joining us for lunch?"

"No. I'll be eating with my friends as usual."

Tora nodded as they steadily made their way to the next crossover.

"Good. There are some things I would like to discuss with Ms. Kurono."

"Like what?"

"Things best not mentioned in public hallways."

"Yea. Can't have more rumors floating about."

"Must be bad news then."

Kurumu smiled softly, nodding at Juri's conclusion. When they reached the next crossover, Deshi led the way down the stairs in her weird, backwards hopping manner.

"Are there things we can talk about?"

"I suppose. Lord Chiki will be eating dinner with us over at Ms. Sawayaka's residence tonight."

"Mhm. Nazohashi will be spending the night with us again."

"Again?"

"Ms. Nekonome was busy last night. I was fortunate that Ms. Sawayaka was willing to let me stay."

"You could have gone back with Koike."

"Wait. I thought you were staying with Ms. Nekonome so that he wouldn't have to be part of the walk."

Tora sighed heavily, shaking her head.

"I proposed that to Ms. Hineri when she met up with us for the walk last Thursday. She had no problem with it, but only Mr. Kitajima has ceased accompanying us. Mr. Umizake and Mr. Koike still walk with us."

Kurumu nodded as they reached the bottom of the stairs.

"I'll see you in class."

"Assuming she doesn't skip English again."

Kurumu pouted at Satsuki.

"I won't skip a quiz."

"You'll bomb a quiz."

Juri giggled, taking off for the end of the lunch line while they continued down the hall.

"So… I'm guessing you'll interview Lord Chiki for your article."

"That is the plan. Ms. Sawayaka also arranged for a sleepover at Mr. Tensai's home this weekend. I will talk to him about the local school."

"Yea. Meirowasa and I will also be part of that. I hear his home is huge."

"It sounds like you made a lot of progress with your articles."

"Not really. Though I think by the start of next week, I should have most of the materials I need to start writing both articles. I still must arrange for a chat with either the Headmaster or Ms. Yoshino to get some background on Lord Chiki."

"Yukari spoke with the Headmaster about both of the articles I recommended for her."

"She did?"

"Mhm. She had a lunch with him and Rubi a couple days ago. I don't think she's started working on it."

"That's good. I heard from Tsukune that you're nearly finished with your articles."

"Almost. I have three interviews left for the gymnastics club which I'll probably do when we take their pictures. I still have to talk with Ms. Rin about when we should do that."

"And Kurono mentioned she would be finishing her band interviews today."

"Mhm. Moka agreed to help me finish them after band practice. She only has that foreign science teacher left to interview, which she says she can do tomorrow."

Tora nodded as they neared the end of the hallway.

"That sounds promising. Ms. Shirayuki mentioned she was almost finished with her short story. Something involving a private dinner. The subject seemed to agitate Tsukune."

Kurumu smirked, wondering how often Mizore would rub that in Tsukune's face.

"Did Tsukune mention anything about what he did with Ms. Nekonome yesterday?"

"Ms. Nekonome took him to Mononoke to help him with his article. I don't know exactly what they did, but it was why she was not home. Tsukune still plans to have a chat with Lord Chiki, though he declined my offer to join us tonight."

Kurumu nodded as they walked beside the diagonal portion of the lunch line. She spied Akari's trio waiting in the throng and offered them a wave. Akari returned the gesture, prompting the other two to take notice and reciprocate.

"Have you spoken with Ginei?"

"Is there a reason I should?"

Kurumu smiled softly as they progressed closer to their destination.

"I don't know. He hasn't said when we will publish our next paper. I was thinking that maybe he's waiting to hear from you?"

"I will update him when there is something worthy of an update."

"I guess I can let him know about your plans when I see him tonight."

Tora paused as Deshi held open the service door in front of the cart laden with trays.

"There might be something we should talk to him about. But not tonight. Tomorrow."

Kurumu nodded, supposing that would make things easier on her. She did have to catch Ms. Rin before the teacher ran off to their gymnastics practice.

Kurumu followed Tora down the short corridor into the kitchen service area. She kept quiet as they made their way around the back rooms, taking another corridor into the kitchen. Deshi arrived at the carts stacked with premade meals first, taking one from the worker whom lingered there. In moments Kurumu was given her own tray and she headed to the far door which Deshi was holding open for them.

Nothing seemed to get better. The situation with Moka had not changed. Yukari was not any closer to separating the two Mokas. Tsukune still had to wear a holy lock to prevent him from losing control over the vampire blood within him. He was no closer to becoming immune to her charm or kiss. Mizore was still stuck in her arranged marriage.

Sure, it was nice that they were all making good progress on their next paper. But did that outweigh the bad things? Where was all the happiness Ginei claimed was as abundant as misery?

Kurumu squashed her fit of despair as they walked into the large gymnasium. The volleyball nets were in place for the boys. Senyou had mentioned that the guys would be starting their games on Friday and would run for the next two weeks just like the girls had done near the start of the year.

"I suppose you wouldn't know how far along Kana or Kiki are."

"I don't think we have to worry about Ms. Zukkutani, but there might be an issue with Ms. Honda."

"Huh? Why?"

"We can talk about this in a moment."

Kurumu frowned, wondering why they needed to discuss this in privacy.

"Did something happen to Kiki?"

"Not that I'm aware of."

"Okay. I was pretty sure that nothing happened to her. Last I heard, she went home early yesterday with Ishiko after her potion wore off during gym."

"There was another girl whom took Sendou's potion?"

Kurumu nodded at Satsuki's amused remark.

"One of Kokoa's friends. You've met her. She's one of the few girls on campus shorter than me and wears goggles. She often mixes her syllables when she talks."

Satsuki pondered over this for a moment as they closed in on the stage.

"Yea. She went to supplementary classes with us. I often see her when I'm leaving shop."

Kurumu grinned as they reached the door to the drama storage room. Deshi drew it aside, slipping in ahead of them.

"That's her. I should have mentioned shop first."

The same trio of PSC guys from last week were present at the low table. Tokori was the only girl, wearing a pair of black sweat pants with her PSC jacket.

"Greetings, Ms. Kurono. Ms. Nazohashi mentioned you would be joining us today."

Kurumu nodded at the toothy grin of Koike. She slipped around behind Kitajima and Umizake, taking a seat beside Tokori. Satsuki walked around the other side of the table to sit down on Tokori's other side. Deshi claimed the spot next to Koike while Tora squeezed in between Deshi and Satsuki.

As everyone settled in, Kurumu tugged the lid of her soup off and blew across the steamy surface.

"So… what's the big news we couldn't discuss in the hallway?"

Koike sighed heavily, shaking his head.

"Should we be sharing this with her?"

"Kurumu is good at keeping secrets when she wants to."

Kurumu glanced at Tora, sharing a soft smile.

"What happened?"

"Yoshizawa is no longer missing."

Kitajima grunted.

"Don't know if we can claim it was the same killer, but her body was cut up like the first two."

"But it most likely is the same killer. And hopefully she shall be the last victim."

"This boycott nonsense is doing us no favors."

"How so?"

Koike managed a smile.

"Well… school attendance helps us notice when someone goes missing. With a good chunk of students not showing up to school, it will be much harder to know if another disappearance happens."

Kurumu nodded, taking a sip of her soup.

"What are your thoughts?"

Tokori frowned at Kurumu's question.

"I think these two should leave the safety walk to us. The PSC needs to start taking daily head counts."

"We can't be everywhere, Ms. Meirowasa."

"Lady Hineri can do the girls' dorms, if that's what you are concerned about."

Tora let out a heavy sigh.

"If you two are confident in doing the safety walk yourselves, Deshi and I could stay behind and do the headcount for the freshmen girls."

Satsuki held out a thumb, nodding.

"I think we can manage. We also have a few teachers walking with us."

"Yes. We are in no danger if the rest of you direct your attention elsewhere."

"I can bring this up to Lady Hineri tonight."

Umizake stirred up his noodles before bringing a hearty chunk up to his lips.

"Should I start checking on the first year guys?"

"I don't think any guys have gone missing."

"I don't think anyone would care if some did."

"That's not nice."

Koike smiled at her scolding.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Kurono. But thus far, it seems young women are the targets."

"But Kurumu is right. You should check on any guys whom are marked absent."

"I can suggest this to Lady Hineri if you insist, Ms. Nazohashi."

"I'll mention it if you don't."

Satsuki and Tokori both chuckled at the terse response as Kurumu sucked down another mouthful of soup. Feeling the warmth spread throughout after swallowing, Kurumu smiled at Tora.

"So… what's the problem with Kiki?"

Tora sighed, letting her shoulders sag.

"Something happened to Ms. Hajihachi."

"What? When?"

Koike nodded with a grim look in his eye.

"Late Tuesday night. I noticed she was absent from my homeroom yesterday. I doubted she would join the boycott without any warning, so I skipped eighth period to check up on her at the dorms."

"Is she missing?!"

Koike held a hand up at her.

"The Housemother informed me that she was injured and had to be taken to the hospital. When I shared this news with Ms. Nazohashi, she urged me to stop in the hospital."

"We all tagged along."

Satsuki gestured at Umizake and Tokori. Tokori nodded while Umizake remained unresponsive.

"How is she?"

"She's fine. Clearly a case of Ms. Takahashi overreacting."

Kurumu frowned at Koike.

"What happened?"

"She was attacked."

"At least that's what Ms. Takahashi claimed. She heard a scuffle outside the dorm and ran out to see what was wrong. She found Ms. Hajihachi lying unconscious in the middle of a red mist. She had suffered multiple shallow wounds and her clothes had been torn up."

Kitajima huffed, shaking his head.

"That doesn't sound like something to be hospitalized over."

"It happened late in the evening so the school nurse was not an option. She decided to drive her to the hospital, planning to turn around if Ms. Hajihachi woke up. For some reason, she remained unconscious. I asked Ms. Hajihachi about what happened, but she would say nothing to me."

"Red mist…"

"Ms. Kurono?"

Kurumu nodded, quaffing down the rest of her soup.

"Last week, Roniushi said she was surrounded by a red mist and that her uniform got slashed up. On the weekend, the same thing happened to the Ohira cousins. A red mist surrounded them before someone slashed up their track outfits. It happened so fast that none of these girls saw their attacker."

"This is news to me."

"I've heard rumors about the attack on the Ohira cousins. It didn't sound serious enough to investigate."

Koike nodded at Kitajima, stroking his chin.

"True. But if all of them were attacked in a red mist, there clearly is something going on. I wonder what connects all of these girls."

"They're all okami."

Koike perked up at Tora's revelation.

"Oh? That is interesting."

"But none have been seriously harmed."

Koike nodded in agreement with Kitajima.

"True. But I would like to ask Ms. Hajihachi more about the mist."

Tora sighed heavily.

"She won't talk around Lord Chiki."

"We will have to figure out a way to isolate her."

"What does Lord Chiki have to do with this?"

Satsuki grinned at Kurumu.

"That's part of how we ended up getting that dinner date with Lord Chiki. He was standing guard at the hospital. Something about keeping an eye on all injuries to ensure the Headmaster wasn't keeping things secret from him."

"More like holding her hostage. She's perfectly healthy with no reason to remain in the hospital."

"What do you mean?"

Koike sighed.

"He won't let anyone talk to Ms. Hajihachi without him present. As you might guess, she would say nothing about what happened to her."

"I think she knows whom did it, but doesn't want to turn that person over to Lord Chiki."

"I agree, Ms. Nazohashi. Perhaps if I tell her this news of other okami girls being attacked, she will realize that this culprit is not worthy of her protection."

Kurumu nodded, absently tugging the lid off her bowl of teriyaki rice.

"What does Lord Chiki have to say about the missing girls?"

"I think he is looking for any reason he can find to remove the Headmaster. I understand that he has been evaluating the teachers."

"Evaluating?"

"Those are his words, Ms. Kurono."

Kurumu snapped her chopsticks apart. Stirring up the contents, she mulled over this information.

"Does Ginei know about Hajihachi?"

Koike sighed, crossing his arms.

"I'm unsure what Morioka knows. I stopped by his homeroom today but I didn't see him in class."

"He must know something is up. He was practically glued to her during our club meetings."

"Did he say anything yesterday?"

Kurumu shook her head, hesitant to start eating.

"We kind of bailed on the whole club meeting thing yesterday. He hadn't shown up by the time we all left to help Kokoa out of her mess."

Kitajima snickered.

"I heard something about a bunch of little girls laying waste to the rugby team not far from the karate dojo. Also took out Mr. Miyamoto whom everyone knew was having an issue with Ms. Shuzen. I trust you don't know anything about that."

Kurumu smirked, deciding she could eat instead of responding. Everyone else followed suit. It only took a few minutes to polish off the first of her entrees. She lacked the appetite to tackle another, wondering why the PSC were given such large meals.

"I suppose there aren't any leads on finding the killer."

Kitajima shook his head solemnly.

"I spent the weekend and the rest of this week with Mr. Sabaku and Mr. Utsubari. We've been checking out the dozens of abandoned buildings scattered in the woods between Mononoke and the school. So far we have turned up nothing, but it's only a matter of time."

"What if they relocate to one of the places you've checked?"

"Lady Hineri is marking each place we investigate. She will know if someone decides to take up residence in one of our crossed off locations."

That sounded promising. Taking in a deep breath, Kurumu grabbed the dinner roll and held it to her lips.

"So… how have you been, Tokori? We don't get to chat in home ec like we used to."

"I have no complaints."

"I do. That little brother of yours needs to stop thinking with his little pecker."

Tokori smiled softly at Satsuki.

"He's curious. It doesn't help that Mikomi is so defenseless."

"I'll say. You would think a smart girl like that would know she can't waltz around the home half naked."

"I guess her father never corrected her behavior."

"Pervy old man."

"Perhaps. But he was the only family she had."

Kurumu swallowed down half her bread roll in the midst of this exchange.

"How is she doing?"

"She's fine."

"You asked this last week."

Kurumu smiled softly at Satsuki.

"A lot can change in a week. Did you ever find a job?"

"Fat chance."

"I'm worried that I might lose mine. This travel ban is murder on us. Nobody asked for it."

"That's the Headmaster trying to exert some control over the situation. If more girls went missing to this killer, Lord Chiki would take over this town immediately."

"I don't think anybody cares if the Headmaster loses his job at this point. Our businesses won't survive the year without the students throwing money at us."

"What about all that money the Headmaster paid back to Mr. Tensai?"

"That went to Mr. Tensai. That doesn't help the rest of the community."

Kurumu knew that made sense, feeling silly for not thinking about that before speaking up. Even if Mr. Tensai decided to rebuild the local school, that would not help the business of the diner Tokori worked at. She sighed, glancing at Umizake whom had finished up his meal.

"Are you marrying Mizore this year?"

Satsuki snickered along with Tokori. Koike turned a toothy grin upon Umizake as all attention shifted to him. The young man leaned back on his palms.

"I don't know. My parents have not informed me of such."

"Finally tired of that girl trying to steal away your boyfriend?"

Kurumu smiled at Satsuki.

"Mizore was acting strange yesterday."

"Isn't that every day?"

"More so. When she stayed with me after lunch, she said a lot of depressing things."

"You mean when you skipped our last English lecture."

Kurumu stuck her tongue out at the grinning Satsuki.

"Yes. When I was waiting for Milady to return from her tantrum, Mizore had a short fit of crying."

"Crying?"

"She's homesick. But she's terrified of going home since she thinks you'll marry her if she does."

Umizake nodded thoughtfully.

"I can only say that I'm unaware of any immediate plans of marriage."

"What would you do if she was pregnant?"

Umizake stared at her quizzically.

"I'm asking theoretically."

"I guess that depends."

"On what?"

"On what she would want me to do."

"Dude. She would be carrying another man's child."

Umizake shrugged at Satsuki.

"So? If my parents are unaware that I'm not the father, I don't see any reason to inform them."

"You would claim that child as yours?"

"If that is what she wanted me to do."

Satsuki frowned at his quick answer.

"I don't get you. She doesn't love you."

"Was that a requirement?"

Satsuki balked at his response. Tora managed a smile, placing her hand on Satsuki's shoulder.

"It's unusual these days to marry someone under those conditions. Especially one whom you don't seem to have strong feelings for."

"My answer was conditional. If she was pregnant with another man's child, I assume that she would be marrying that man. But, if for some reason that option is unavailable, I am willing to cover that role."

Kurumu sighed heavily, putting the rest of her roll in her mouth. She chewed it down and swallowed.

"I think you should know that Mizore has been pestering me for weeks to let her host my child."

"Host?"

"Yes. As a succubus, I don't have a womb for a baby. Instead I get inseminated by a guy and pass that on to another woman whom will give birth to a succubus for me."

Koike chuckled, sharing a glance with Kitajima.

"That's… different."

"I'm surprised you came out with it so bluntly."

"What else should I do?"

Tora huffed at her.

"Abstinence. You and Tsukune were told to hold off until he built up an immunity to your charm."

"Well that's not happening if he never gets my blood."

"I understand that, but that's between you and Moka."

"What the fuck is this all about?"

Kurumu smiled at Satsuki.

"It's nothing serious."

"It is when you bring it up as something Mr. Umizake should be concerned with. I've said it before. Getting her pregnant won't fix her problems. They'll probably have her marry Mr. Umizake on the spot if you did such a thing."

"Maybe. My parents would object if they know the father isn't me."

Tora rolled her eyes.

"And how will her village elders react? Will they be fine letting their future snow priestess get knocked up by a succubus?"

"I can't speak for her village elders."

Kurumu cringed, realizing this had been a huge mistake to bring it up.

"I'm sorry. I was hoping you would… I don't know. I guess I could ask her mother."

"Oh my God."

"What?"

Tora shook her head in disbelief.

"That's… ugh. How do you think that will go?"

"I don't know. But her mother is coming to the upcoming events. I thought-"

"That's assuming the school hasn't been shut down."

Kitajima snorted at Koike's quip.

"Agreed. We can't keep this Lord Chiki at bay forever. Something has to be resolved soon or we won't make it to midterms."

"Promise me one thing, Kurumu."

"What?"

Tora wagged her chopsticks.

"Rehearse this whole 'can I put a baby in your daughter' with me before you actually do it."


"You can touch them if you like. They like being stroked."

Shiriuchuu Meiko lifted up one of her obsidian braids which hung from her head down to her shoulders. The thick swath of hair took on a more serpentine look as a diamond head formed at the tip. A white forked tongue darted out as she presented the snake to Kurumu.

"That is so cool."

Kurumu grinned, tracing her fingers down the snake. The texture felt like patterned leather.

"Some of us are blessed with hair that doesn't lash out at the slightest hint of danger. I feel bad for Tonari. She might never be able to live among humans."

Like the cousins from archery, Shiriuchuu was from Bokuseki, the gorgon village in the Sanjo area. She was one of the many flute players and was in class seven. She either ate her lunch with Kusou from the kimono club or with Ochiai from the archery club, having shared Mr. Nagamushi's homeroom last year with both of her friends from Bokuseki.

"Aren't there guys from Bokuseki?"

"Two seniors. Both losers. The first year, Mabushi, is kind of cute, but not someone you'd ever seriously take as a man."

Kurumu withdrew her hand, switching her pencil back to her right.

"So… no prospects for dating?"

"I don't know. I've talked with Hebiko lots about maybe dating a salamander. But the ones worth having are way out of my reach."

"Like who?"

The girl's mint eyes became distant as she smiled.

"Atsushi would be nice."

Kurumu smirked. She wondered how Akegawa would feel about that.

"We didn't mix much in junior high. They kept the kids from Bokuseki in a different classroom. Claimed it was for safety reasons."

"Well… I've seen at least one girl get stoned."

"If it's by Tonari, that doesn't count."

"It was actually by Orochi."

"That's a surprise. Her hair is so calm."

"I guess it was kind of Sakamori's fault. I've never had an issue with Orochi. So… were there any other salamander boys you had an eye for?"

"It's hard to take any of the other boys seriously. The Tokeru and Gamidake boys are not very interesting. Himura is cool but completely enamored with Hebiko. I suppose the older Bakugen boy became the captain of the basketball team, but he's not that good looking."

"Oh? I didn't realize the basketball captain was from Tochimoeru."

"I don't know if he's from there or not. He went to junior high with us, but neither he nor his brother seem like salamanders to me. They could be monstrels."

"Is that a problem?"

Shiriuchuu shrugged.

"Sort of. They have such a difficult time finding work. I know it sounds shallow, but it's like whether or not you think it's worth dating a cripple. Sure, he might be the nicest guy you'll ever meet, but it's not like there's a lack of nice guys on the planet."

Kurumu smiled softly.

"But if you date outside your race, won't you have a monstrel child?"

"Maybe. It's not like that's guaranteed. Fairy Tale has some say on whether or not your kid will get classified a monstrel or not."

"So… you're open to dating other races, but not monstrels."

Shiriuchuu pouted at her. The girl reached over to pat Kurumu's head. She was not that much taller than Kurumu, roughly about the same height as Akegawa.

"It's honestly not that easy for a gorgon to date other species. Guys don't like the whole snake hair stuff and getting stoned. Salamanders aren't immune to it, so Hebiko is lucky. I probably will have to wait for graduation and then move to a different gorgon community."

She withdrew her hand and grinned.

"Or marry a gnome. That's always an option."

"Why a gnome?"

"Immune to petrification. If you don't mind being married to a short nerd."

"So… any gnomes on your radar?"

"I'm not that desperate yet."

They shared a giggle. Shiriuchuu was her seventh and final interview tonight. As band practice had wrapped up a little before six thirty, she guessed at least an hour had passed since then. She was glad that Moka had helped her out. There was no way she could have managed this on her own.

Nothing special had transpired today. Yotsumure and Kagami had both been absent from sewing class, taking class four's gym participation down to seven girls since Sakamori rarely participated. Asuka's homeroom was also down to seven while class three was only missing Dokiniji.

Kurumu had hurried down to Mr. Rin's lab after classes ended, scheduling her photo session with the gymnastics club for their next Tuesday practice. For some reason, Kiki had been with Michiko. The girl had been curious if Hajihachi had scheduled something for Friday with the kimono club, having not seen Ginei or Hajihachi yesterday. Unsure what she should say, Kurumu promised to let Kiki know as soon as she found out.

Ginei never showed up for club. She came back and waited with the rest of the club until a quarter to six before sending Kana home. Despite her inability to use her drawing pad, Kana had completed one comic using the stock drawing software with hopes of finishing another over the weekend.

They had walked over to the band room and waited for practice to finish up. Kurumu had spoken briefly with Mr. Tagami and then called out the fifteen names she needed to complete her interviews. She had initially tried splitting the group into five each, but Tsukune had bowed out, saying he felt too awkward doing interviews. Yukari had refused, too occupied with reading the latest Nana volume that Kana had remembered to bring with her to school. Mizore was Mizore.

Before she split things up evenly with Moka, she had stopped Uzushio to ask about Ginei. Much to her surprise, Ginei had been absent all day. That news had made it a little difficult to get her interviews started. Her mind kept wondering what was going on.

Thinking Yamimori would be quick, Kurumu had decided to take the four kids from the Kabashita junior high and the three from Hateshinai which Nomura had mentioned to her. Shiriuchuu had been her last pick, since Kurumu had been interested in meeting her.

Already confused by the news about Ginei, she had not protested Yamimori's decision to not give any more information than he already had. Despite his refusal to add more to his interview, he stuck around for her to finish the other three from Kabashita.

Sukihara Akane from class seven had been Kurumu's first proper interview of the evening. Amusingly Sukihara and Yamimori were the only first years Kurumu had called to stay. The sable haired girl kept her tresses up in a simple ponytail and had soft brown eyes. Sukihara strongly admired Sukoyaka, whom she regarded as a much more talented violinist, though that made some sense given how Sukihara had not started playing the violin till her sixth grade year.

Sukihara's interview had taken the longest, partly because Kurumu was still thinking about Ginei but also because Sukihara was associated with Juri. Kurumu wandered off topic several times. She only realized how much time had passed when Mr. Tagami called out to her that he was locking up. This prompted the lingering students to put away their instruments, though Mr. Tagami had left the key with Mr. Tobikomu.

Kurumu had mildly protested the departure of the teacher, reminding him that she had to interview him too. He had brushed her off, saying he needed to have dinner with his family and that she could always interview him on Saturday when they did the pictures.

Broken out of her wandering conversation with Sukihara, she finally did the interviews for the two second years whom Yamimori lunched with. Kitai Yuuto was from class one, which they used for lunch, while Shaberu Fuji was from class three. There was nothing special about either of them. Like Yamimori, they both played trumpets. Way too many trumpets in this band.

Once she had wrapped up the pair, the boys had offered to walk Sukihara to the dining hall. While it was clear that Sukihara was annoyed with their company, Kurumu felt some relief that Sukihara had agreed to the escort. The four had left the room before Kurumu started on the kids from Hateshinai.

Kurumu smiled, looking over to Moka. The vampire was chatting with two dark haired boys about the same height and build as Tsukune. Tsukune was with her and so was Mizore and Yukari. She sighed, glancing over her notes. She had already jotted down Shiriuchuu's lack of plans for the future and her early February birthday.

"Any favorites you would like to add?"

"Do you think it's depressing that I like black?"

"Not really."

"I really like black stuff. Most of my casual wardrobe is black. I used to wear black lipstick, but I wasn't sure if I should do that here. I only do it on the weekends now."

Shiriuchuu gasped, touching Kurumu's shoulder.

"Oh, and pink. Pink and black. I wish I had more pink clothes. Father wouldn't buy me any pink clothes, saying I wasn't a princess."

"You don't have to be a princess to wear pink."

"I know. I wish I had money to buy my own stuff. It's weird having your parents shop for you."

Kurumu nodded, regarding Moka's group. Five of the guys Moka had interviewed were gone. Kurumu had no idea why those last two were sticking around, since it was obvious that Moka was done with her interviews. Her scratch paper rested next to Kurumu's discarded sweater.

The other group lingering about was more understandable since Mr. Tagami had asked one of them to lock up. Fuwari Yani from class ten was the senior with the long, smoky tresses up in a plume. He had let Kurumu touch it, confirming it was very soft and fluffy. The other senior with the short, spiky platinum blond locks was Tobikomu Taiki. Tobikomu had been nominated for the popularity contest from class one. He was the taller than Fuwari, whom stood about Ginei's height. Both boys were fairly slender, admitting that they were sylphs.

The girl flirting with these aloof guys was Kyoufuu Hachidori, a second year from class one. Her golden eyes and feathered cinnamon tresses betrayed her Tengu race. She had a pair of short tails tied with baby blue ribbons at the base of her neck, falling down her sides. The tips almost reached her waist. She also had freckles and a slight hook to her thin nose.

"Favorite music?"

"I don't know enough music to have a favorite."

"Well… what kind of CDs do you have?"

"I don't have a CD player."

"Are there any other favorite stuff you'd like to mention?"

"I love peaches."

Kurumu laughed.

"That's a first."

"How? Peaches are amazing."

"I've just… never had anyone say peaches were their favorite."

"Did you know they have cans of peaches full of syrup?"

The girl's eyes went misty.

"So tasty."

"Do they have peaches in the dining hall?"

Shiriuchuu sighed, shaking her head.

"You can buy them in Mononoke. They usually sell them whole, but I prefer the sliced ones which come in cans. I miss having peaches."

"I thought you didn't have money."

"I don't. But if you give the guy big, puppy eyes, he might toss you one can."

"That works?"

"You bet."

"Anything else?"

"I think we're good."

Kurumu nodded, starting over to Moka's group. Shiriuchuu took the hint and followed along.

"Um… do you often use your looks to get free stuff?"

"It's not like cans of sliced peaches are expensive. A can runs about the same cost as one whole peach."

"Really?"

"Something about the quality of canned peaches being lower. But who cares. The syrup is to die for."

"Are you finished?"

Kurumu nodded at Moka.

"I'll take all those notes."

The vampire grinned, grabbing up the sheets. She got up on her feet and handed them over.

"Mr. Nakajima and Mr. Yokoyama agreed to walk you home, Ms. Shiriuchuu."

Shiriuchuu smiled nervously at the pair of boys whom stood up.

"Um… that's very sweet of you."

"They say that they went to junior high with you."

"That is true."

Kurumu smiled, gesturing to the pair.

"I have to ask… is Yokoyama related to the teacher Yokoyama?"

The taller one with his dark locks styled in a simple middle part shook his head.

"No. We're no relation."

Kurumu nodded, supposing this meant the other one with the shaven sides and back was Nakajima. Both of them had forgettable faces, dark hair and brown eyes.

"Be polite with her."

Yokoyama chuckled in his weasel like tone.

"We know to keep our distance."

"After you, Ms. Shiriuchuu."

"I shall see you on Saturday, Ms. Kurono. Farewell."

Kurumu waved as the girl stalked out of the room ahead of the two boys. She took in a deep breath, glancing over Moka's notes.

Four of the boys Moka had interviewed were from Shizukana, three of which were seniors. It was no surprise that the Shuui boys turned out to be brothers. The last name in the group was Kuudou Yojin from Gosen. Deciding to look over these later, she stuffed these sheets in her notebook.

"I have an idea."

Attention shifted to Kyoufuu whom wagged a finger in the air.

"What?"

"Give me the key to the storage room."

"Why?"

"Just give it."

Tobikomu sighed, reaching into the pocket of his slacks. He pulled out a silver key, which the girl promptly snatched up. With a happy tune, she bounded over to the storage room.

"What are you up to?"

"I'm going to share with them the legend."

Fuwari groaned as the girl fumbled with the lock.

"Not this nonsense again."

"What's this about?"

"Some bogus legendary item she swiped from her grandmother. Mr. Tagami confiscated it last term."

Kyoufuu huffed, sliding open the door and ducking inside.

"He was supposed to give it back to me before summer break."

"Come on, Hachi. We don't have time for this."

"It won't take long."

Kurumu chuckled as the two boys sighed. None of these three were friends with Antai, though they all knew about her. Kyoufuu did perk up at her mention of Nomura, but admitted she had never gotten along with Miyauchi from the track team.

"They will stop serving dinner if we dally around here too long."

"You boys don't have a drop of romance in your souls."

"Romance doesn't silence a grumbling stomach."

Kurumu smirked at Fuwari. Despite the protest, the guy made no move for the door.

"Can't you guys make your own dinner?"

Fuwari and Tobikomu shared a glance. The two seniors lived together in suite 807.

"Why would we want to do that?"

"Yani's cooking might be lethal."

"My cooking? When have you ever cooked anything?"

"I'm smart enough to not experiment with things beyond my grasp."

"Sorry to keep everyone waiting."

Kyoufuu bounded out of the storage room, holding a hideous looking device. It was black and had silver keys, much like the clarinets and oboes. But like a flute, it lacked a reed. It sort of resembled a recorder, which Kurumu had not seen one of those since her days in human schools. The instrument had an ugly design mounted near the end of the shaft. It looked like a mouth with a tongue dangling out.

"What is that thing?"

Kyoufuu grinned, holding the instrument out to Moka.

"This is the Flute of Love."

Mizore instantly snatched it away before Moka could take it. The snow girl studied the device.

"I don't trust Akashiya with this."

"I haven't done anything."

"That looks more like a recorder than a flute."

Kyoufuu huffed at Tsukune's observation.

"That is not the point."

"If I play this, will Tsukune fall in love with me?"

"Hand that over."

Yukari made a swipe for the instrument which Mizore deftly evaded. The snow girl held it up high, planting her other hand on Yukari's head as the witch reached up for it.

"I only asked."

"Let me study it."

Kurumu chuckled, grabbing Yukari from behind to restrain the squirming witch.

"We don't need you trying it out."

"Would you rather her do it?"

Frankly Kurumu would rather have Mizore with Tsukune than Yukari.

"The legend says that whomever plays this flute will have their love bared for them."

Fuwari snorted at Kyoufuu's declaration.

"It also says you will sprout wings and fly out into the sunset with your beloved."

"It's romantic."

"It's hogwash. I've played that thing and nothing has ever happened."

"Because your heart is empty."

"So is my stomach. Can we go now?"

Tobikomu laughed pleasantly.

"Why don't you play it for us, Hachi?"

"Yea. Let them see how it doesn't work, even for you."

Kyoufuu pouted at the grinning boys.

"It doesn't work because you two don't love me."

Fuwari snickered, stepping up to the cinnamon haired girl to flick her forehead.

"Silly bird. You know that would never work out."

Kyoufuu pouted, rubbing her forehead.

"That doesn't matter to the heart."

"I think the feelings must be mutual for it to work."

Mizore nodded at Tobikomu's remark, lowering the instrument to study it again.

"Both hearts in harmony."

"She gets it."

"Can I see it?"

Mizore glanced at Moka. She regarded the vampire's hand held out to her. She decisively turned and presented it to Tsukune.

"He should play it."

"What? Why me?"

"To bare your love."

Kurumu laughed, loosening her grip on the squirming Yukari.

"Now hold on. We don't need to bare anything."

Mizore shot her a look.

"Worried?"

Kurumu frowned as Yukari slipped out of her grasp.

"Well yea. What if some charm falls over me?"

"Don't worry, Kurumu. I'll knock you out if you start stripping."

Kurumu smirked at Yukari.

"What if I charm you first?"

Yukari blushed.

"Then I guess that dream will become a reality."

Kurumu felt her own cheeks turn flush, realizing that could end up being the case.

"What are you two talking about?"

Kurumu grinned at Kyoufuu, shaking her head.

"It's nothing."

Kurumu flinched as Tsukune took the instrument from Mizore.

"You can't play that!"

"I wasn't going to."

Mizore favored her a smug smile as Tsukune looked the instrument over.

"What if nothing happens?"

Fuwari snorted.

"That wouldn't surprise me. It's never done anything legendary in the past."

"I think Hachi's disappointment with it has been legendary."

Kyoufuu pouted at Tobikomu.

"It will work when I find my destined one."

"Play it, Tsukune. You'll see for yourself whom you are destined to be with."

Tsukune managed a smile at Mizore's command.

"I don't know. What do you think?"

He surrendered the instrument to Yukari. The witch sighed happily, holding it up in both hands to her eye level. She frowned, cocking her head.

"That's strange."

"What?"

"There is a spell on this."

"I knew it! It's a spell to reveal your love!"

Yukari shook her head, turning the instrument over in her hands.

"I don't know about that. It looks like there's a mind control spell component in this."

"Mind control?"

"You know. Like the story about the guy whom would play his flute to control all the rats to lead them out of the city. That sort of thing."

"That's possible?"

Yukari nodded at Tsukune's surprise.

"It's a strong spell that works easily against simple minds."

"So… Kurumu-"

"Don't you start."

Kurumu wagged her finger at Mizore, whom smirked at her.

"I don't think that's the case here. This reads more like a curse."

"Curse?"

Yukari nodded, handing the instrument back to Tsukune.

"The spell does target all whom hear the song, but it doesn't appear to control their minds. I'm unsure what it exactly does without playing it."

The boys frowned, sharing a glance.

"We've played that thing multiple times for Hachi. It's never done anything."

"The only curse is how badly it sounds."

"I don't know why the spell doesn't trigger on you. Maybe sylphs are immune to it."

"But I'm not a sylph."

"Maybe there's some sort of requirement for the spell to take hold."

Kyoufuu grinned proudly.

"It's love."

Fuwari promptly bopped the girl's head.

"Silly bird."

"But the legend."

"Yea, yea. I'm hungry."

Tobikomu laughed. Kurumu liked his laugh and his voice.

"Give it over, Mr. Aono."

"But he should play it."

Tsukune chuckled at Kyoufuu's insistence. He held it up, placing his fingers on the silver keys.

"I don't even know how to play it."

"I could show you how."

Kurumu smirked as all attention shifted to Moka. The vampire blushed, glancing aside.

"It can't be that hard to play a recorder."

Tsukune laughed sheepishly at Yukari's gruff remark.

"Yea. But recorders are different from this thing. Recorders have little holes you cover with your fingers."

"It's a flute."

"An ugly flute."

Kyoufuu pouted at Fuwari, whom smirked at her distress.

"The only difference is the mouthpiece."

"If you're not going to play it, hand it over. We don't need to be here past eight."

"Yea. We'll miss our dinner."

While Kurumu mulled over the unlikelihood of them missing dinner at Kurai which served the meal until eight thirty, she winced when a wretched screech cut through the air. Tsukune grimaced, withdrawing his lips from the instrument.

"What was that?"

"The sound of love."

Tobikomu chuckled at his friend's offhand remark.

"Did I do something wrong?"

"No, Mr. Aono. It always sounds like that."

"That isn't true. It can make a beautiful melody when it wants to."

Fuwari snorted at Kyoufuu.

"I wouldn't call it beautiful."

"You have to put more feeling into it."

Tsukune frowned at Kyoufuu.

"Feeling?"

Moka nodded with a sweet smile.

"Yes. Music is a reflection of the soul. It can be gentle or angry, depending on the emotion you wish to put into it."

Tsukune pressed his lips against the tip and blew into the instrument again. Another deathly shriek rewarded his efforts, causing everyone but Mizore to wince. He frowned, shaking his head.

"I don't know if I could make this thing sound any different."

Mizore cocked her head.

"That might sound good with heavy metal."

"That's an instrument of love!"

Mizore shrugged at Kyoufuu. The white stick of her candy rolled to the other corner of her mouth.

"I like it's sound. Like fingers down a chalkboard."

They all regarded the soft smile of Mizore.

"That's not something people normally enjoy."

"You should focus your thoughts, Mr. Aono. Try thinking about the one you love when you blow into it."

Kurumu blushed, noting Tsukune, Moka and Yukari were doing the same. Tsukune laughed sheepishly, shaking his head.

"I don't know if I can."

"Maybe it's easier for a girl."

Kyoufuu nodded at Mizore.

"I completely agree. Men have trouble expressing their feelings."

The snow girl held her hand out expectantly.

"Give it to me, Tsukune. I'll show you how good my blow job is."

Tsukune gagged at Mizore, falling back a step. Both guys were chuckling, looking anywhere but at Mizore while Kyoufuu burned scarlet.

"Mizore!"

"What?"

Kurumu shook her head at the snow girl whom had cocked her head.

"You must know what a blow job is."

"Yes. That's why it's easier for a girl."

Kurumu felt a rosy glow on her cheeks as she continued to shake her head.

"Maybe you should give up on this, Tsukune."

Tsukune laughed, blushing darkly. He took in a deep breath and let his lips hover over the tip.

"The one I love."

He blew into the instrument, sounding out another shrill, ghastly wail. Everyone but Mizore instinctively covered their ears. Tsukune winced, jerking his head back.

"What is wrong with this thing?"

"Somehow that was worse."

Tobikomu grimaced, nodding in agreement with his friend.

"Surprisingly so. I don't think I've ever heard it do that."

"Maybe he's a bad kisser."

"Absolutely not!"

Kurumu blushed as attention quickly shifted upon her.

"You're not supposed to be kissing him."

"What about your charm?"

"I was meaning in the past!"

The two boys exchanged a frown.

"You're not kissing your boyfriend?"

Kurumu sighed heavily.

"I have an opiate in my spit which makes kissing a bad idea. But we can do other things."

Yukari snickered.

"Pretty much have done everything. Though her spit isn't the only place for that opiate so he can't go down on her."

"I don't think they've done anal."

Tsukune gagged at Mizore, shaking his head.

"Why are we discussing this?!"

Kurumu felt like she could die from embarrassment.

"He's my boyfriend so it was okay."

"Sounds like that's a green light for anal, Aono."

Moka frowned at Fuwari's amused statement.

"What's anal?"

Kurumu thrust a finger out at them.

"Nobody answer that!"

Moka turned cherry red.

"Oh. Nevermind."

"I have not done anything like that with Kurumu to my knowledge!"

"I don't understand why any guy would want to do that."

Fuwari shrugged at Yukari's huffed remark.

"Because it's there."

"That is just gross."

Kyoufuu sighed dramatically

"Well that sucks. I thought I would finally get to see the legend."

"It's a bogus legend."

"But Ms. Sendou said it has a spell on it."

Tobikomu laughed pleasantly.

"I believe she said it was a curse."

"I don't think Tsukune is a bad kisser."

Kurumu laughed at Moka's random remark. The vampire was blushing, pressing her forefingers together.

"I still cherish the fact that mine were the first lips to grace his."

Fuwari snickered as Tobikomu laughed.

"What is this about?"

"Did you kiss a little girl?"

"I was under hypnosis!"

"I didn't realize you had so many girls interested in you. Maybe the flute is confused."

"Maybe the flute doesn't do anything."

"Hand it over, Mr. Aono. I think you've suffered enough humiliation for one evening."

Tsukune backed a step away from Tobikomu's extended hand.

"I kind of want to give it one more try."

Kurumu sighed, shaking her head.

"You don't need that, Tsukune. I'd much rather you press your lips against my neck."

"Kurumu."

Kurumu pouted at Moka.

"I'm not charming him to do it."

"Your words could influence him."

"It's bad enough that she's wearing that blouse. Her tits are almost hanging out."

Kurumu huffed at Yukari, crossing her arms defiantly.

"I don't care. He's my boyfriend. He should put away that instrument and play with me instead."

"I know I would."

Kurumu smirked at Fuwari, turning her gaze upon Tsukune but carefully avoiding his eyes.

"How about it, Tsukune? I'll make much lovelier music if you put your lips on me."

"That's not music, Kurumu. That's moaning."

Kurumu rolled her eyes at Yukari's snickering.

"Oh, shut up. My moans are cuter than yours."

Tsukune blushed darkly, turning his shoulder to her.

"One more try."

To her surprise, the sound coming out of the instrument was lively and upbeat. Kurumu frowned as Tsukune's fingers moved frantically over the keys. His eyes were wide as he paused only to take a breath before continuing the melody.

"What the-"

"That's it!"

Kyoufuu clapped her hands, grinning.

"He's finally put his heart into it."

Fuwari snorted.

"Whatever. I'm starving."

"We can't go now. It takes a few minutes for the song to play out."

Kurumu frowned at the boys.

"What do you mean?"

"If you try messing with it enough, eventually it will let you play one of its songs."

Fuwari snickered.

"Yea. And you don't get much say in it. You have to keep playing till the flute lets you stop."

"Oh! That must be the mind control element."

The two boys shrugged at Yukari's deduction.

"I guess. But it doesn't do anything else."

"Yea. It certainly doesn't bare-"

Moka's shirt tore out as black feathered wings sprouted from her back. The vampire cried out in alarm as her school blouse slipped down, baring her pink camisole beneath. Buttons popped free from the camisole, revealing more of the lacy black bra which had a pink bow fixed to the center of the band.

"Moka?"

The vampire covered her chest, turning frightened eyes upon Kurumu. Kurumu was surprised for several reasons. Why did Moka have wings? Why was she cawing like a crow? Why was she wearing her pajamas under her school blouse?

"Does this mean Moka is his love?"

Kurumu turned to protest Kyoufuu's observation when she felt her own blouse tear out. Her words came out in an unintelligible squawk, similar to the cries Moka was making. She snatched the lacy strap of her blue bra, frightened that it was ruined. Thankfully it slipped back up on her shoulder with ease, but the blouse was ruined. At least this was her last one not custom made.

"This is new."

The sound of fabric ripping drew her attention. Mizore stared dumbly at her black sports bra as a pair of dark wings flexed behind her. Yukari cupped her bare chest, her eyes wide. She squawked her protest. Mizore cocked her head, crowing in response.

Kurumu cawed at Yukari, wanting to ask why the heck the girl had nothing on underneath her blouse. The witch cawed back, blushing hard. She turned her back on Tsukune, whom continued his vibrant melody. His cheeks were flush and his eyes were wide, but he kept on playing.

"I'm confused."

A bewildered Kyoufuu and the two perplexed boys remained unaffected by the song.

"Well… that's one way of baring one's love."

More fabric tore as a pair of black wings erupted from Tsukune's back. Tsukune's eyes went wild as his fingers kept moving of their own accord. His new wings pumped, lifting him up off the floor.

Kurumu cawed in alarm, pointing at him. Mizore nodded, cawing in response. Moka squawked piteously, holding herself as she rocked her shoulders. Her wings moved awkwardly.

"Does this means he's destined to be with all of them?"

In answer to Kyoufuu's question, Tsukune shot over to the windows. He smashed through them without slowing, soaring out into the courtyard beyond.

Kurumu hopped over to Yukari's side, cawing as she grabbed the girl by her shoulder. Yukari warbled out a protest, holding her chest. Kurumu pointed out at the broken windows, squawking animatedly. Yukari pouted, flexing her wings. She cawed, nodding.

Hoping Yukari was on the same page, Kurumu pointed at Moka and squawked. Moka cawed in response, still struggling to move her wings as she kept moving her shoulders at the same time. Shaking her head, Kurumu turned and cawed at Mizore. The snow girl shrugged, crowing calmly.

Having no idea if anyone understood anything, Kurumu jogged over to the broken windows and launched herself out into the courtyard with a pump of her new wings. They operated the same as her normal ones, though they were heavier. She felt like she could fly faster, cutting through the evening air effortlessly. She lifted up higher, glancing about for signs of Tsukune.

A shrill cry behind her warned her of Yukari's approach. The witch was quickly adapting to her wings, holding her hands over her subtle breasts. Kurumu hovered with lazy beats of her wings, turning about to gaze in all directions. She had to find him quickly, unsure if she could wait on the other two to figure out how to use their wings.

Spotting a figure out by the athletic fields, Kurumu squawked and pointed. Yukari nodded, cawing in agreement. They zipped through the air, quickly closing in on the figure. The melody of his song became strong enough to hear over the whistling wind.

Tsukune passed over a group of boys hanging out in the soccer field. In seconds, all of the young men had sprouted wings and were cawing angrily at each other. Kurumu managed a smile at the confused stares thrown up at them as they passed. She hoped none of those boys got mad at Tsukune for this.

Kurumu cawed loudly as she neared Tsukune. He kept flying away from them, but she was more familiar with how to fly. Both her and Yukari caught up to him by the time he reached the woods.

She cawed again, getting him to turn his head. His eyes were wide and his fingers continued to move along the keys. She grinned, cawing another time. She nodded her head back towards the school.

Yukari zipped by his other side, cutting around in front of him. Tsukune flinched, pausing only to catch his breath before puffing out more notes. The witch squawked angrily at him, letting go of one of her tits to point back at the school. Tsukune's eyes widened at the sight of the witch's nipple.

Kurumu squawked calmly, letting her eyes meet his. His eyes became dazed and he finally lowered the flute from his lips. His wings pumped slowly as he started to descend to the ground.

Yukari cried out in alarm, swooping in to intercept him. Kurumu darted in, grabbing hold of him and pumping her wings firmly. She grinned at Yukari whom had completely exposed herself to help Tsukune. She squawked out teasingly which Yukari huffed out an indignant caw. Taking the flute from his loose grip, Kurumu presented it to the witch. With a frown, Yukari took the enchanted instrument. She squawked again, shaking her head.

Feeling she had the gist of what Yukari meant, Kurumu smiled as they carried him back to the school.