"I wish my body was as amazing as yours."
Kurumu smirked at Yukari's remark. Shaking her head, she folded up her maid uniform which Ms. Juunan had brought to her this morning. She worried Mrs. Chinoashi would be annoyed if she tossed this in the dirty clothes again. Stark naked at the moment, Kurumu placed the garment neatly beside her suitcase.
It was not like she had done anything to get the fabric soiled like cooking or washing dishes. While Mr. Chinoashi had prepared the meal, Mr. Kondo had worked with her on the proper way of serving meals. Thankfully those bowls filled with jelly weights were incapable of breaking considering how often she had spilled the contents of the platter. Needless to say, she had not served anyone their breakfast.
Kurumu pulled a bag out of her suitcase, feeling a slight pang of sorrow upon seeing the carton of plums from Yamagata. She tugged the carton out, setting it next to her thigh. Exhaling, she upended the other bag into her lap. The black garment with the pink carnation pattern spilled smoothly across her skin.
"You should dress in your yukata."
"It's way too early for that."
The witch was sprawled on the couch still wearing her pajamas from last night.
"I think the other girls are already changing."
"I should check on Moka."
Kurumu smirked as Yukari rolled off the couch onto her feet.
"Don't start molesting her."
Yukari huffed indignantly before passing through the open doorway into Moka's bedroom. Seeing no reason to change into other clothes, Kurumu slung her yukata over her shoulders and slipped her arms through the sleeves. Her yukata came with two cords. The thinner cord was black like the yukata while the wider sash was a dark burgundy. She had no clue what the small cord was for but the sash she was supposed to tie into a pretty bow.
Draping the cord and sash over her arm, she grabbed the carton of plums and stood up. She regarded the jewelry box which was mommy's butsudan, wondering if Yukari should tweak the illusion so that she could see the shrine. This felt too easy to run away from the truth. She had to accept that the butsudan and urn were all that remained of mommy. An illusion could not change that.
Deciding she could leave Yukari alone with Moka for now, Kurumu headed over to the sliding door which connected the two suites. She could already hear girls giggling and moving about. Switching the carton to the hand which held the cords, Kurumu drew open the portal and poked her head inside.
Antai was hitching a white cord about Akegawa's waist to hold up her pink yukata which was patterned with white sunflowers connected by curling white vines lined with ribbed white leaves. The top flaps were loose, betraying her cream bra beneath. While Antai secured a knot with the cord, Akegawa took note of Kurumu and smiled.
"It's my first time."
"Same."
Antai glanced up at her. The sylph was already dressed in her baby blue yukata marked with pink cherry blossoms. Streaks of pale green mingled with the blue while a broad pink sash was tied about Antai's midsection. Her modest bosom rested comfortably at the top of the smooth sash.
"You're going to boil in that black, Kurono."
"Well… I bought it thinking festivals would be at night."
Antai chuckled, finishing up with the smaller cord. She reached in the folds of Akegawa's yukata to smooth it over and hide the cord.
"I have a yellow one with white roses back home. We hold a festival during obon every summer at Hateshinai. It's an all-day event so most of us wear light colors."
"Ms. Kurono!"
Kurumu's attention swept over to the other pair whom had been struggling across the room. Taniguchi had flush cheeks as she giggled and straightened up her lime green kimono secured with an indigo sash. The floral pattern was of an unfamiliar flower, consisting of evenly spaced, white petals about a yellow stigma. It reminded her of her tail, though she had not known there was any flower like that.
Kokoa stormed over to Kurumu and thrust a finger back at Taniguchi. The agitated vampire's slight bosom heaved with each breath beneath her white yukata patterned with yellow and pink flowers somewhat similar to the ones on Kurumu's yukata. Green and red leaves of different shapes were scattered in with the flowers while a crimson sash was tied about Kokoa's tiny waist.
"Tell this child the proper way to wear her yukata."
Kurumu reflexively smirked but failed to have any smart response come to mind. She glanced off to her right, noting Fukai was perched precariously on the back of the couch wearing only lacy black panties and staring intently at her phone. Beside the gnome draped over the couch were a satin black sash and soft orange yukata which featured white dandelions with fluffy seeds drifting on white air currents.
"Well?"
Kurumu snapped her attention back with a sheepish grin.
"I have no experience wearing a yukata. I came in here hoping one of you could tie me up."
Antai snickered as she wrapped the dark green sash about Akegawa's waist.
"I wouldn't mind tying you up."
Akegawa blushed as Antai tugged the sash tight.
"That yukata is pretty, Ms. Kurono."
Taniguchi giggled as she stalked over to Kokoa's side.
"You are going to wear lingerie beneath your yukata."
It was phrased as a rhetorical question which prompted Kokoa to scowl.
"Of course she isn't. You don't wear lingerie with yukata."
Antai chuckled, shaking her head.
"Where does she get these ideas?"
Kurumu smirked, fairly sure whom was behind this misinformation.
"I hate to break it to you, Milady, but I think lingerie is quite normal to wear with yukata."
"You're not wearing any."
Kurumu shrugged, knowing her omission was more of an oversight than intentional. She was about to mention her lack of bras when she paused in realization.
"I haven't worn a bra since Tuesday."
Antai and Taniguchi both burst into fits of mirth while Akegawa politely smiled.
"Aren't you worried about sag?"
"My breasts have always been perky so I didn't wear one daily until my charm set in and that was only because my nipples became sensitive. I've broken bras flying so most weekends I avoid wearing one."
"This coming from a girl whom complained about her bra selection."
Kurumu shrugged at Kokoa whom had her head cocked and arms crossed in front of her sash.
"Bras are like panties. They're supposed to be pretty. If I was worried about support, I'd be wearing a sports bra all the time like Asuka."
"Asuka?"
Kurumu shrugged, holding out the carton.
"A track girl from class one whom is in my home ec class. Anyways, I have these plums from Yamagata. They were supposed to be a souvenir for my mother, but I won't be seeing her any time soon. You guys are more than welcome to them."
Kokoa absently took the carton.
"But we just ate."
"You can eat them later. I don't want them to go to waste and I doubt Moka or Yukari would want them."
Because they would feel bad about it.
"Mother gave that pudding we bought in the airport to Mr. Nagi. Including the one you bought for your mother. I saw it in his house. I didn't want to mention that to you but I guess this explains why."
If Kokoa had been the only one in the room, Kurumu might have shared everything. Instead she smiled and nodded before glancing up at Taniguchi.
"Do you also attend festivals in your village?"
"I went with friends to the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival this year. Our fourth year in a row."
"I know a few girls from class wanted to attend that."
"It's a huge event. And we always wear lingerie."
Kokoa huffed, stomping over to Fukai. She thrust the carton at the gnome, whom took it without even looking up from her phone.
"Fine! I'll bring Moka and she will tell you that's how we've always done it!"
Taniguchi giggled as Kokoa angrily departed the room. Finished tying the bow, Antai gingerly smoothed out the sash about Akegawa's waist as she stepped around the salamander.
"I don't get why she is fussing over this."
"It's because Ms. Taniguchi insists that Kokoa is wrong."
"She is wrong."
"Maybe I should have taken off my bra."
Antai chuckled, draping her arms about Akegawa's neck.
"I considered it too, but I don't want to undress."
"Speaking of undress, do you plan to put on some panties?"
Kurumu smiled at Taniguchi, offering a shrug.
"I don't know if it matters. Is it common for these things to fall off?"
Taniguchi giggled, shaking her head as she stepped in closer. She held out her hand with a nod. Taking the cue, Kurumu handed over the cord and sash. Taniguchi slung the sash over her shoulder as she reached around Kurumu with the black cord in her hands.
"It's left over right, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu nodded, arranging the flaps while Taniguchi tightened the cord about her waist.
"I would say accidents are more prone than what you would have in a dress. Do you wear panties with your dresses?"
"I don't own many dresses. But if it flips up as easy as skirt, I'm wearing panties."
Antai chuckled heartily as Taniguchi cinched the cord in a knot.
"I've never considered lingerie to be optional when going outside."
"I expected you to be more of a free spirit, Ms. Antai."
"I'm not that free. What about you, Hikari? I've noticed you go without bras now and then."
The salamander blushed.
"Only because I don't need them."
"Could you fix your top, Ms. Kurono? I don't want to feel you up."
Kurumu smiled sheepishly, realizing Taniguchi had been waiting on her. She reached inside her yukata, smoothing the right flap against her skin before drawing her hand down to her waist to fix the fabric around the cord. She slipped her right hand back to straighten her right side before freeing her hand.
"I assume everyone knows about the trip to Hawaii."
Taniguchi smirked without comment as she started wrapping the burgundy sash about Kurumu's waist.
"Which is totally awesome!"
"I'm a little scared. I've never left Japan before."
"It will be an adventure!"
"Land is land."
Fukai hopped off the back of the couch, setting her phone and the carton of plums aside. The topless girl bent forward, tugging her lace panties down to her ankles.
"Fukai?"
"Do me next."
Antai snorted out a laugh, shaking her head as Fukai tossed her panties in the direction of a hamper which had been moved into the main room.
"That act followed by that request could have different results if I didn't know what you wanted."
Fukai gathered up the orange yukata in her hands as Antai approached.
"I look forward to exposure."
Antai took the black sash and golden cord from Fukai, prompting the gnome to slip into her yukata.
"We will have to keep a close eye on Hikari and this runt. I hear Americans are fond of kidnapping."
Taniguchi giggled as she slipped behind Kurumu, pulling the sash tight about Kurumu's midsection.
"I would include Kokoa if you are implying they target little girls."
Kurumu's breath caught for a moment when Taniguchi tugged the sash tighter. Kurumu smoothed out the sash beneath the swell of her bosom. The yukata seemed looser than she liked, thinking they might have needed to tug more fabric up.
"Is this okay? I'm almost falling out."
"And this is why you should wear a bra."
Antai chuckled, shaking her head as she started assisting Fukai.
"She has to pull the flaps tighter at the start."
"You need some sag to mask the cord."
"You must have too much."
"Oh? So I don't need to tug it up?"
"How does it look, Ms. Akegawa?"
Kurumu could tell Taniguchi was reluctant to start over.
"I think she's okay."
"Really? It seems-"
Kurumu paused, realizing she was wrong. Someone would have to push her boobs up and even then they might not fall out. If she started running it might be an issue, assuming she could run in this. It was way more cleavage exposed than she expected but probably as secure as Moka's corset dress.
"Nevermind."
"Okay. I'm going to tie the bow."
Kurumu felt Taniguchi's hands work against her back, keeping the sash tight.
"I'm glad you agreed to go with them on the trip."
"As if I could turn Kokoa's mother down. She's scary."
"Yea. But I'm sure things will be better this way."
"Sure. Now I can prove my English skills are as terrible as I said they are."
"Kokoa said Ms. Fukuda can speak fluent English."
Taniguchi huffed, tugging the knot tight. Her hands moved firmly on the sash and then she clapped Kurumu on the shoulder. With a grin, the Undine walked back around Kurumu to pat Akegawa's head.
"She could be speaking gibberish for all we know. You're all ready to go, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu murmured her thanks with a small bow. With a glance, she noticed that Antai was already working on the black satin sash about Fukai.
"Has Fukai worn a yukata before?"
"Of course. She's in the kimono club."
"That doesn't mean anything."
Akegawa smiled, shaking her head.
"No. She knows how to put one on. She did it in the store."
"Without help."
That addition from Taniguchi had Kurumu wondering why the gnome had prompted someone to dress her. She heard someone approach from behind, turning to witness Kokoa's arrival. Moka was following in her sister's wake, wearing a bright blue yukata patterned with round purple flowers which had white lines dividing the circle into five equal portions. A dark purple sash was tied about her waist.
"Tell her that it is normal for us to not wear lingerie beneath our yukata."
Moka had a healthy flush upon her cheeks as she glanced aside.
"Well… we never have."
"And I have no objections."
Yukari strolled into the room, grabbing Moka's right hand in both of hers. The witch had donned a soft yellow yukata which had a floral pattern of multicolored, drooping petals. A pristine white sash was tied about her torso. Yukari nuzzled her cheek against Moka's sleeve.
"Ms. Sendou has agreed that it is normal."
"Are you going without lingerie?"
"I am. My mother always goes without, though she makes love to my father on these special occasions."
Antai chuckled as she prettied up Fukai's bow.
"If it makes you happy, Kokoa, Fukai has also decided against wearing panties."
Kokoa huffed triumphantly, crossing her arms against her sash.
"See. It is perfectly normal to not wear lingerie beneath a yukata."
Akegawa bit her lip as she started to fidget with her dark green sash.
"I guess if Kokoa wants me to, I can take mine off."
"Don't be silly, Ms. Akegawa. You can keep your lingerie on"
Finished up with Fukai, Antai wandered over to poke Taniguchi's shoulder.
"I think you're too shy."
"I don't see you stripping down."
Antai smirked, placing a hand on her hip as she cocked her head.
"I would if Kokoa gave me a kiss."
"Fine. But only a little kiss."
Antai perked up with surprise in her tiger orange eyes. She turned on Kokoa with a hopeful expression.
"For reals?"
Blushing, Kokoa nodded with her face turned aside. She stepped in closer, reaching up to grab Antai by the yukata. She lifted up on her toes, turning her head to meet Antai's gaze.
"Little kiss."
Antai gingerly touched Kokoa's arms as the vampire softly brushed her lips against Antai's. The sylph stepped in closer but Kokoa changed her grip to a slight push. Antai gripped Kokoa's sleeves, tugging the vampire in for a firmer kiss while making a slight sound. Kokoa made a similar sound, pushing back firmly while craning back her head to free her lips.
"Dummy. I said little kiss."
Antai pouted, unable to reach Kokoa with that firm press against her shoulders.
"It's not like I put my tongue in."
"You were going to."
Antai smirked, letting go of Kokoa's shoulders. The vampire pushed back with a shake of her head. Kokoa started fussing with her sleeves.
"Could you kiss me too?"
Kokoa smiled at Akegawa whom had already unfastened her sash. The salamander folded the sash in her arms as she meekly looked up at Kokoa with pistachio eyes.
"Sure. And you said you would strip."
Antai chuckled as she grabbed her sash and tugged it around to her front.
"I'll be naked for you in seconds."
"That's not…"
Kokoa shook her head and wagged a finger at the sylph. Sighing, she approached Akegawa and gently grabbed the girl by the shoulders. Akegawa tilted her head slightly, closing her eyes. While Akegawa was shorter than Antai, Kokoa still needed to lift some up on her toes to press a kiss upon the shy girl's lips. They both made soft sounds of approval, moving their heads slightly.
"And she gives her a longer kiss."
Taniguchi giggled as Antai sighed in disappointment.
"She does have her favorite."
The two broke the kiss, both blushing fiercely from the comments.
"I don't understand why she dislikes my relationship with Moka. She has a lesbian harem."
Kokoa's ears burned bright red as she turned upon Yukari.
"It is not a harem!"
"What else would you call this?"
"Friends! Obviously."
Yukari regarded the vampire dubiously as Antai continued to disrobe with a chuckle.
"I'm more wounded by the lesbian comment."
"I doubt you're that upset, squirting all over the floor."
"I'm not the one whom tries to push her down and feel her up every chance I'm given."
"Yea, yea. Next time you can clean up your own mess."
"Would you take them off for me?"
Akegawa glanced away as she held her yukata open to betray her underwear. Both were smooth cotton which was the epitome of boring lingerie. Kokoa tossed a challenging glare at Yukari before stepping in to reach around Akegawa to feel up her back for the bra clasps. Akegawa closed her eyes, biting her lip and holding her breath.
"Here."
Kurumu glanced at a square package pressed in plastic which Fukai handed her. The cardboard within had the Toshiba brand name in red on a white background. There were two thin black squares, with one being small enough to slip inside the other. The words declared these were a microSD and adapter with 128 MB worth of flash memory. The gnome handed the other package to Moka.
"We picked these up after breakfast yesterday."
"Where do you fit in this group?"
Fukai glanced at Yukari.
"I can fit anywhere. I'm small."
"That's not what I meant."
"I don't think our little voyeur understands what is going on half the time."
Kurumu chuckled at Antai's amused remark. Holding the memory card up to her breast, Kurumu thought about grabbing her purse so she could have someplace to store her phone.
"So I can transfer photos to my laptop now."
"You still need a USB converter. The store didn't have any."
"And they bought all but one of those chip things. That's a monster community store for you."
"Make sure you are all packed up. Mother said we're spending the night in Iromori and that our plane leaves tomorrow at noon. We won't be stopping at the Estate before returning to school."
Akegawa took her panties from Kokoa, nodding before hurrying off for the bedroom door. Fukai walked over to the couch, grabbing her phone before spilling over the back out of sight.
"Could you pack these for me?"
Antai grinned as she waved a lacy pair of periwinkle panties. Trembling, Kokoa scowled at the sylph.
"I'll stuff them in your mouth if you don't shut up."
"Careful, Kokoa. She might enjoy being panty gagged."
"You could tie my wrists with my bra."
"I think my lesbian harem observation was accurate."
Kokoa blushed hotly, shaking her head.
"Put those things away, Hotaru."
Antai chuckled as she wadded up her lingerie. Slipping around the couch, she bent down out of sight.
"So this memorial thing is some special event for the passing of Moka's birth mother."
"Yes. And there might be other family present. Most of Lord Tomi's family is not leaving until Monday so they will stop by the family grave. I don't need you flirting around again."
"It was dancing."
"If you behave yourself, I'll sit next to you."
Antai poked her head up in the midst of zipping up a suitcase.
"Really?"
"And don't say a word. This is a serious day for Mother."
Taniguchi giggled as Antai pouted. Akegawa emerged from the bedroom with her schoolbag and a dark green suitcase. Fukai stepped back up into view, clutching a huge suitcase almost as big as her in her arms while her goggles dangled against her back from the strap about her neck.
"Where are your things?"
Taniguchi smiled at Kurumu.
"I didn't have any major plans to stick around. The duffle bag I brought could barely hold that pretty dress I wore for the wedding. Everything else I have in a backpack."
Antai snorted, hauling up her suitcase over her shoulder as she got back up. Her pink sash and blue cord were slung over her shoulder.
"She nearly ruined that dress. You can't stuff a ballroom gown in a duffle bag. Everyone believed her when she said she forgot to bring it."
Kurumu smiled, aware of how difficult it had been to manage her wedding dress. Her eyes swept over the floral designs of the different yukatas. Every girl in the room had a different kind of flower. Kurumu gestured at the undine as Akegawa drifted over to Kokoa's side, parking her suitcase nearby.
"I know Antai has cherry blossoms and Akegawa has sunflowers. What sort of flower is that on yours?"
"I think they're lilies."
"I would guess jasmine."
Kurumu frowned as Taniguchi shrugged. She glanced at Yukari.
"Jasmine? I thought that was a spice."
Yukari stared at her.
"It's a flower, Kurumu. It grows on a vine. They might look similar to lilies but they're entirely different."
"What sort of flowers are yours, Ms. Sendou?"
Yukari freed one hand from Moka to touch her chest with pride.
"These are iris petals, known as the rainbow flower due to the different colors upon its petals. These rounded flowers on my Moka's yukata are morning glories."
"You seem to know a lot about flowers."
"Of course. I read a botanical guide filled with pictures when I was four."
Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head.
"Okay, smart ass. What sort of flowers are on Kokoa's?"
"Obviously they have the closest resemblance to peonies."
Kurumu stared at the witch, having never heard of peonies before. She glanced at Taniguchi.
"You should probably get your stuff."
Taniguchi giggled, nodding as she headed for the bedroom door.
"Does Iromori host a Bon Festival?"
Kokoa shrugged at Antai, absently taking Akegawa's hand.
"They might. We only go to Momma's memorial in Iromori. The only Bon festival I've ever attended is the one hosted in Itsuki."
"I've been meaning to ask, but is this the same Itsuki from Itsuki Lullaby?"
"I have no idea."
Yukari cleared her throat.
"Itsuki Lullaby is a folk song originating from the Kyushu region. There might be other Itsuki villages in the region, but I am only aware of this one."
"Can you sing it?"
"Why would I want to do that?"
A knock on the door spared the blushing Yukari from any mischief Antai had been plotting.
"Could someone assist me?"
Kurumu smiled at the sound of Rubi's voice. As Fukai had been sitting on her luggage near the door using her phone, the gnome was first to respond to the distressed witch. Fukai opened the door and the older witch hurried into the room, bowing graciously.
What the hell was Rubi wearing? It looked like some sort of lingerie fetish. The flimsy garment hung from Rubi's neck, stretching down in two black straps which covered her nipples and most of her breasts. The straps had golden eyelets starting at the apex of her bosom and descending down to her navel where the two straps came together as one. A black string had been fished through these eyelets for tightening it appropriately to the spacing of her bosom. The leather strap widened in the back to almost resemble a proper pair of briefs. Two strings were fixed to this triangular section and had been tied about her waist.
"You are not going to a graveyard wearing that."
Rubi threw a distressed look at Kurumu.
"I only put it on because Ms. Juunan asked me to."
Akegawa's eyes were averted as Kokoa covered her mouth and nose. Fukai had her head cocked as she studied how the outfit contoured with Rubi's body.
"Oh my God! What is she wearing?!"
Kurumu covered her laugh as Taniguchi dropped her duffle bag on the floor only a few steps from the bedroom door. The undine's cream eyes were wide in shock.
"It's a swimsuit my mother gave her."
Kurumu whirled on Yukari.
"That's a swimsuit?!"
Yukari crossed her arms defensively.
"My father bought my mother that suit four years ago but she never felt comfortable wearing it. She gave it to Rubi because she said no girl should spend the summer without a swimsuit."
Antai chuckled as she came over to join Kurumu.
"Does your mother not like her?"
"Is it even safe to swim in a suit like that?"
"It leaves so little to the imagination."
"I think her tits would fall out all the time."
Taniguchi smirked as she wandered over to the witch squirming under the scrutiny.
"She at least needs to break out the shears. Her ocean floor has too much seaweed."
Antai laughed, shaking her head as she pulled the cord off her shoulder. She wrapped it loosely about her waist before placing both ends in one hand. With her free hand she fixed up her panels.
"I don't ever go swimming so I've never thought about whacking my weeds."
A flush Moka cleared her throat.
"Um… Rubi. Why would you put that on for Ms. Juunan?"
Rubi smiled nervously, rubbing the back of her head.
"Ms. Juunan was looking through my suitcase. I told her I didn't have a yukata for this memorial and it was no big deal if I had to stay behind with the others."
"Mother might still let you go to the family cemetery."
"Not wearing that."
Moka nodded at Kokoa's quick remark.
"Yes. You should go back to your room and put on something more… appropriate for the outdoors."
Rubi frowned.
"But this is a swimsuit."
Antai smirked as she fixed up her yukata to hide the cord and fit snugly about her torso.
"Not for a public beach."
"You might want to buy a different swimsuit, Ms. Rubi."
Rubi turned her frown on Taniguchi.
"Is this bad?"
"That depends on how much attention you want."
Yukari sighed dramatically as she let go of Moka's hand and started for the door.
"What is the problem?"
Rubi flinched at Yukari's stern tone.
"Ms. Juunan won't let me back in the room."
"She wanted to see you wear it. Why would you leave the room?"
Rubi squirmed, hesitant to answer.
"She said I should show my suit to Mr. Aono."
"And what did he say?"
"He… said nothing."
Kurumu perked up suspiciously.
"What happened?"
"He… he pushed me out of the room and locked his door."
Taniguchi and Antai both giggled over that. Kurumu shared a smile with Moka.
"I don't get how this is an issue. You have your-"
Yukari paused, sighing again.
"You took your earrings out."
Rubi smiled sheepishly, touching her earlobe.
"It hurts to sleep with them in."
"Fine. Stay in here and out of sight. I'll go fetch you something appropriate to wear."
Rubi bowed deeply, murmuring her thanks. Shaking her head, Yukari ignored Rubi as she slipped out of the room and closed the door behind her.
"I'm almost finished here, Hikari. I'll help you with yours."
"Um… what did you mean by having too much weeds on my ocean floor?"
Taniguchi giggled, placing a hand on Rubi's shoulder and tugging her towards the group.
"Your hair down there. When you wear a suit like this, you're supposed to have all of that hidden by your suit. If you can't hide it, you have to remove it."
Rubi's hands descended to her navel as she allowed Taniguchi to bring her over to the group.
"I'm supposed to cut that? But how? Even if I use scissors, it would still show."
"Which is why that's a terrible suit for the public."
Taniguchi waved a dismissive hand at Kokoa.
"The suit is fine. I think humans have this thing called waxing which removes everything. I personally do a trim every month because I don't like it when they start to curl."
"You can also sear them off."
All eyes turned on Akegawa, whom blushed under the attention.
"It's something I do every summer."
Kokoa blushed, glancing away.
"I was wondering why it was all gone."
"What's gone?"
Akegawa meekly parted her yukata, causing Antai to chuckle. Taniguchi smiled, patting Akegawa's head.
"You should never make your garden bare."
"She looks like a little girl."
Akegawa pouted as she closed up her yukata.
"I thought we would go swimming. I worry that people would notice my hair through my swimsuit."
"Nobody will notice texture through a swimsuit short of having their head between your thighs."
Akegawa blushed from Taniguchi's remark.
"Maybe. It's not like I could ask anyone."
Kurumu smiled, aware that most of Akegawa's peers from her hometown were boys. The only girl Kurumu knew about was that gymnastics senior two years older than Akegawa.
"Should I take care of this now while Yukari is busy?"
Kurumu glanced at the door. She had no idea how long it would take Yukari to get something for Rubi.
"I guess. We might have to rescue Yukari from Ms. Juunan if she isn't back in a couple minutes."
"Unfortunately true. I'll go check on her now."
Kurumu nodded as Moka headed for the door.
"How do I do this?"
"Scissors and a razor."
"Of which I have neither."
Taniguchi smirked at Antai.
"Same. I'm guessing our pyro here doesn't have these things. What about you, Kokoa?"
Kokoa blushed, running her fingers through the locks about her ear.
"I've never trimmed myself. Maybe Moka-"
"Nope."
Kurumu shook her head, fully aware that Moka did no such grooming. Taniguchi giggled.
"I'm not about to ask why you are so certain on Moka."
"I could burn them off for her."
"I suppose you could do that. Would you also do mine?"
Antai grinned at Kokoa's flush request.
"This I've got to see."
"No way!"
Taniguchi giggled at Antai's pout.
"I agree. Letting you in the same room while Kokoa's lady parts are bared is asking for trouble. Shall we move this to the bathroom?"
Taniguchi started for the bedroom door with the other girls in her wake. In moments, Kurumu heard the door lock after Rubi closed it. Antai sighed, heading over to join Fukai at the door.
"I guess it's just me and Fukai again."
Having nothing better to do, Kurumu headed back into Moka's suite to retrieve her phone and purse. She was curious how this memory card worked, hoping Fukai could explain it to her.
"It's not much further now."
Kurumu nodded, regarding the wooded scenery about this narrow road cutting about the mountaintop. It was nice to see trees on both sides, considering most of this drive had been a weathered, winding path up the hillside with carved rock on the left and a steep wooded drop on the right. Several spots had lacked a rail guard, so they had to take the drive slow in case another vehicle happened to be coming down the road.
"Could we stop for a minute? I really need that lotion."
Rubi squirmed in the front passenger seat, wearing a long sleeved fishnet shirt over a black tank top. Glossy black suspenders with silver buckles looped over her shoulders and hid the straps of the tank top. These adjustable suspenders were part of a glossy black skirt which nestled under the witch's bosom and ended shy of her knees which were swathed in fishnet stockings tucked in her black platform boots with silver buckles. Her heavy skirt had a silver zipper down the front.
"What were you even thinking?"
Ms. Fukuda shook her head. The young succubus had on a velvety black blouse with chiffon sleeves. The top was stitched in a manner so that the right flap of the blouse slipped beneath the left flap instead of having the hems meet in for a normal collar. Her assets were pushing this blouse to its limits.
"It was fine until a few minutes ago."
Ms. Fukuda sighed, shaking her head as she directed the car along the narrow path.
"It's called sunburn. It'll go away by tomorrow morning, if not sooner."
Antai jostled Kurumu's right shoulder, grinning.
"I wonder if Kokoa is also squirming from crotch burn."
Kurumu smirked, unwilling to comment. She glanced at Mizore whom was quietly pressed to the door on her left. Kurumu timidly placed her hand on Mizore's thigh right at the hem of her striped stocking. The snow girl whom was dressed the same as always did not respond.
"I can't believe you did something so stupid."
"Ms. Taniguchi said it was proper for the swimsuit I have."
"What kind of swimsuit are you wearing?"
"You don't want to know that, Ms. Fukuda."
Ms. Fukuda sighed, shaking her head.
"Is there a man you are trying to impress?"
"Uh… no."
"I've heard of women doing a lot of silly things in the name of hygiene, but this is a first."
"Well… Hikari is a salamander. It probably didn't cross her mind that the other girls would have a lower heat tolerance for this type of thing."
Kurumu smiled, giving Mizore's thigh a squeeze. The girl turned her head, moving the white stick in her mouth from one corner of her mouth to the other with her tongue. Mizore had not said anything since Ms. Juunan had told her to get in this car. The only reason why Mizore had joined them on this outing was under a threat of molestation if she did not leave the bathroom she had holed herself up in since yesterday afternoon.
"Are you really going back to the Estate instead of coming with us to Iromori?"
"Somebody has to stay behind to let the servants leave the Estate. I never met Lady Akasha so I don't feel any obligation to attend her memorial."
They had left Tsukune back at the Estate. Kurumu was worried about him since he had not shown up for breakfast. He had spoken with Moka when the vampire checked on him about the incident with Rubi. It had mostly been apologies and statements about how he did not deserve Moka's friendship.
Mrs. Shuzen had not shown any interest in requiring Tsukune to attend the Memorial, probably aware of the vehicle situation. Kurumu had only asked once in passing and let the matter drop. She was curious if the woman had any plans of talking with Tsukune or reading his future.
"Do you know anything about the young man we left behind?"
"I know his name is Mr. Aono and that his body is compatible with yours."
"Compatible?"
Kurumu smiled at Antai.
"It means I can have babies with him."
"That's probably true with most people you have sex with."
"Actually not true, young lady. The body of a succubus is oddly selective about whom it can mate with. We instinctively recognize our mates and feel a strong attraction to them much like any normal woman whom has a preference for certain male traits."
"So… she could have unprotected sex with any other guy?"
"Like many monster races, we are immune to all known sexually transmitted diseases. I personally find it more satisfying for a man to release his seed inside me."
Antai chuckled with a blush. Kurumu shook her head at the sylph's goofy grin, having no desire to talk about sexual promiscuity.
"Do you think a succubus can have true friends?"
"Where is that coming from?"
"Ms. Juunan said our charm is like a continuous aura which makes the people around us do as we want."
"I know she'll be upset if she heard me say this, but Lady Juunan is not an expert on our race. If a human girl walked about with a cheery personality and was always willing to lend a helping hand, chances are high that she would make friends with most of the people surrounding her."
"That's not what she meant."
"I know what she meant. She's saying a succubus can sit back and do nothing and get those results. And she's right. We can do that if we have enough ego to believe we can."
"Are you saying Kurono can make me be nice to her?"
Ms. Fukuda sighed as she pulled through the trees into a large clearing.
"Sort of. If she's crazy enough to believe you want to be her friend for no good reason. It's much easier to believe random guys will like you on the sole basis of having big tits."
"She wouldn't be wrong."
Ms. Fukuda gestured at the clearing off to the left as she turned down a small path which continued to skirt the woods. There was a simple two story house built at the crest of the clearing.
"We're on the old Shuzen grounds. That's Mr. Nagi's house."
Kurumu sat up, peering through the window over Antai's shoulder.
"Are the ruins of the old castle nearby?"
"They cleared that out years ago. Used some of it to build Mr. Nagi's home. The family graveyard is at the end of this drive."
"Will we be there soon? My poor thing is on fire."
Kurumu smirked, shaking her head at Rubi's piteous whimper. She glanced at Mizore, noting the girl's sapphire eyes were fixated on her. Kurumu scooted in closer, lifting her hand from Mizore's thigh to paw at her arm. The air was cooler about the snow girl, as it always was.
"You're still my friend, Mizore."
Mizore moved her arm up out of Kurumu's reach. Before Kurumu could protest, the snow girl draped the arm over Kurumu's shoulders. Smiling softly, Kurumu leaned in closer to rest her head against Mizore.
"Oh, I get it now. Shirayuki was bummed out about this."
"And here we are."
Ms. Fukuda pulled the vehicle through an iron gate. Gargoyles mounted atop stone columns flanked the drive. A stone wall tipped with black iron spears spread out in both directions, though it turned sharply at the line of trees nearby on the left. They rolled inside the perimeter, drifting off to an open parking area on the left. Kurumu immediately spied the black cherry and obsidian sedans the others had taken. There were nine other vehicles parked in the lot: one silver, four white, one red, one blue and two black. Kurumu guessed these belonged to members of Lord Tomi's family.
There were many graves off to the right. Kurumu could see the trees off in the distance rising up beyond the rigid perimeter wall. Ms. Fukuda parked their vehicle beside the black cherry sedan, turning the key to silence the engine. She bent down to pick up her purse and rummaged the contents. She pulled a yellow tube out, tossing it over to Rubi.
"Okay. Lube your pussy while I go close the gate. Lady Akasha's grave is hard to miss, so you can head on over to it without me if you want."
Ms. Fukuda pushed open her car door as Antai laughed and did the same. Rubi frowned, clutching the tube to her bosom as she glanced over the seat.
"Does she mean my ocean floor?"
Kurumu smiled.
"Only Taniguchi would call it that. A lot of people do call that a pussy."
"Why?"
Kurumu honestly had no idea where most of the slang for referring to a vagina had come from. She could only shrug as Mizore popped open the car door and started to get out. As she waited for Mizore to exit, she heard Rubi's zipper tug down.
"This is an odd question, but are you wearing panties?"
"Uh… I don't own panties, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu could only shake her head as she slipped out of the car, thinking she would have to ask Yukari about this. She flashed Mizore a smile before taking a deep breath of this sweltering hot summer air. With it being half past noon, things were getting toasty. As Rubi made a disturbing sound of relief, Kurumu closed the car door.
"She's a strange girl."
Antai chuckled at Mizore's offhand remark, stalking off across the crushed dirt.
"This place is huge. I'm going to look for the others."
Kurumu nodded as the sylph departed. She turned her attention to Mizore whom was already panting. A small trickle of sweat was starting to form at her brow.
"Are you going to be okay?"
"I know what happened with Tsukune was not your fault."
"Well… Yukari did suggest it was possible that I could influence him with touch and sound."
Mizore smirked as the bead started to crawl down the side of her face.
"I think I could too."
"I didn't make Tsukune like you."
"Ms. Juunan mentioned you could only do what you believed. You believed in Tsukune and Nerume."
"They do like you, Mizore. They do. Antai gave me a letter from Nerume. We can write to her tomorrow when I get back to the Estate."
Mizore took in a deep breath.
"You could have made me fall in love with Umizake."
"I would never do that to you."
"I know. That's why I trust you. You would never push anyone to do something you didn't feel was right."
Kurumu stepped in to hug Mizore. She felt so cold which was so nice on this humid day. Mizore's hands timidly touched her sides.
"I don't know what this means for you and Tsukune."
Kurumu laughed, giving the girl another squeeze. She sighed, relaxing her grip and stepping back.
"What should I do? All his confidence of being in love with me evaporated in an instant. It was crushing."
"I thought you would die."
Rubi's door came open as the witch stepped out with a dramatic sigh of relief.
"There is a God and he is merciful."
Kurumu chuckled, letting Mizore go as Rubi brought her hands up in prayer, clasping the yellow tube as she regarded the clear sky above.
"I will never commit such a crime to my pussy ever again."
"But I thought you enjoyed punishment."
Rubi vehemently shook her head.
"One can never truly punish oneself to satisfaction."
"Why are the three of you ladies still standing about for?"
Ms. Fukuda pushed the fab on her button, locking up the vehicle.
"Rubi just finished lubing herself up. Antai already took off. This is a decent sized cemetery. Are you sure Antai can find the others?"
Ms. Fukuda nodded, holding her hand out. Rubi took the cue to walk over and return the tube.
"It's a good sized monument with an angel relief. Considering a dozen people will be gathered about it, the girl would have to be blind not to find it."
Kurumu nodded, looking out over the wide expanse of graves. There were several decent sized effigies nestled in among the rows of granite graves. She saw Antai wandering about but did not spy the others.
"I don't see anything."
Ms. Fukuda chuckled, pocketing her keys and the tube in her loose dress pants.
"It's further back and I would guess the others have already taken a seat about the monument. Let's go."
Rubi needed no prompting to start walking with the woman.
"Then I'll catch up. I need a moment alone with Mizore. I haven't been able to talk with her since she arrived at the Estate."
"Don't take too long."
Kurumu nodded as Ms. Fukuda retreated into the gravestones with Rubi. She waited for the pair to get several rows of graves away before turning her attention back to Mizore. The snow girl was tugging something down her thighs which had Kurumu momentarily confused.
"What are you doing?"
Mizore lifted one leg up, slipping free of a striped cloth.
"Taking these off."
Kurumu gagged, placing her hands on Mizore's shoulders as the girl stepped out with her other leg.
"You don't need to do that!"
Mizore straightened back up with a frown. She absently stuffed her panties in her center pocket.
"Why not?"
Kurumu felt so flustered at the moment.
"There are so many reasons I could say right now."
"Isn't it easier with my panties off?"
Kurumu regarded the snow girl with an exasperated sigh.
"Okay. First reason. I'm still struggling over whether or not I should continue dating Tsukune. Putting his baby in you is not appropriate at all."
"I think it's appropriate for me to have a baby with someone I care about."
"But how would Tsukune feel about it?"
"What's the worst he could do?"
"He might hate us for doing something like that."
"He was never going to choose me, Kurumu. Being hated by him might be better than being friends. I never wanted to be friends."
Kurumu meekly played the only protest she had.
"He might hate me."
"How could he possibly hate you? You would have to want him to hate you."
Kurumu paused. She was unable to think up a response to that.
"Don't you plan to charm him back to the way he was?"
"I can't do that."
Mizore frowned.
"Are you breaking up with him?"
"I'm not breaking up with him."
"But if you go back to being a couple, you will charm him again."
"I know that."
"And if you avoid him, he might end up with Akashiya. He seems hopelessly involved with her."
Kurumu sighed.
"I talked with Yukari and Moka about this. We don't think he will ever start dating Moka."
There was another long pause. Mizore cocked her head aside.
"Put the baby in me."
"I can't."
"I'll take all the blame. I don't care."
Kurumu choked out a laugh.
"I can't. I'd have to take this stupid yukata off and I have no idea how to put it back on."
"I can put that back on for you."
Kurumu smiled at Mizore.
"Okay. I can't because it takes four to five days for his sperm to cook inside me before its ready to serve."
Mizore blushed, wiping away a bead of sweat.
"You could have started with that reason."
"But then we wouldn't have a serious discussion over why we shouldn't do this. I'm not going to be as sane about this four to five days from now. Moka will have to sleep in another room."
Mizore smirked, glancing aside.
"So around Thursday I should start hovering by you closely."
Kurumu pouted.
"That's not funny."
"Is your tail like a dick?"
"What?!"
"You did say that you use it to impregnate a woman."
Kurumu blushed, rubbing the back of her head.
"Well… yea… but not like that. My spade end opens up and I guess I would push my stigma inside you while the petals make a seal."
Mizore nodded, glancing off to the side.
"I wonder if that feels good."
"I have no idea."
"But you've had to empty your tail before."
"I wouldn't say that felt good. It was a huge relief, but nothing like having an orgasm."
"Would that count as losing my virginity?"
Kurumu's blush darkened.
"How about we go find the others now?"
Kurumu did not wait for Mizore's approval. She headed out with her sandals clipping against the dirt. Mizore effortlessly caught up to her, sticking in her shadow as Kurumu stepped up onto a stone paved trail cutting through the rows of graves. Black bricks were framed inside red bricks which only stopped when a black row of bricks intersected this path.
The graveyard was massive but Ms. Fukuda had been right. It was easy to find their destination, though it did take three to four minutes of walking down this path. There was a huge monument off to the right with a large clearing about it. Their entire group was already gathered about the black stones which ringed about the monument, knelt down on cloths which Mr. Nagi had brought.
Lord Ikiro, Lord Tomi's eldest son, addressed the group as he stood in front of the monument with the angel carved into its smooth white surface. He was talking of Lady Akasha, their mother and savior whom all vampire families owed their allegiance.
Kurumu cringed as her sandals announced her approach. Having spied Moka sitting beside Mrs. Shuzen, Kurumu daintily picked her way around Kokoa's girls. Instead of being with them, Kokoa was seated by her mother. Kurumu hoped nobody protested if she sat with Moka since Yukari was.
She smiled apologetically as she stepped in front of Mr. Nagi's family. He favored her an amused look while Ms. Tara pressed her finger to her lips and shook her head. Nagi's son and wife were seated with them. Both women had colorful yukata like Kokoa's girls while the men had solid colored robes held in place with one sash. It seemed to be the standard of all gathered.
Lord Ikiro chuckled, pausing his words. She glanced at him, smiling sheepishly as her sandals clacked her last few steps to her desired group. Shaking her head, Mrs. Shuzen gestured for Kurumu to sit by Yukari. The woman was dressed in a crimson yukata patterned with white and black roses. A bright yellow sash was tied about her midsection.
The next group on Kokoa's right was Lord Tomi, his wife and Lord Ikiro's wife. Their two sons and two daughters were with them. There was another son of Lord Tomi seated with his family further off to the right. Kurumu did not recall his name but had danced with his eldest son, Lord Kigan.
Lord Ikiro resumed his speech about how wonderful Lady Akasha was and would be missed by all whom had the pleasure and privilege to speak with her. Kurumu glanced back at the trail, curious where Mizore had gone. She quickly spied Mizore sitting with Rubi, Ms. Fukuda and Ms. Juunan near the start of the clearing off to the left. The older succubus was wearing a silver yukata with black silhouettes of small birds in flight. A white sash was drawn about her torso.
Polite clapping prompted Kurumu to do the same. Lord Ikiro retreated back to his place with Lord Tomi and his family. Kurumu turned a smile on Moka.
"Did I miss much?"
"Mother did her opening and both Lord Musashi and Lord Tomi already said their dedications."
"Lord Musashi's here?"
"And Lord Uniki, though he passed on saying anything as he never met Momma."
"It's because Kahlua's wedding was so close to Akasha's memorial. Lord Koujou is the only elder bold enough to leave. He never liked Akasha. I doubt he'll bother attending Lord Gun's funeral."
Kurumu smiled at Mrs. Shuzen's gruff remark.
"Will Lord Gun be buried here?"
"Every vampire of the Shuzen family is laid to rest here. Lord Gun shall be no exception."
Kurumu nodded as Lord Tomi's other son approached the monument. The stout gentlemen cleared his throat and gripped his robe. With a grin, he bowed in Mrs. Shuzen's direction.
"For the young ladies whom don't know me, I am Shuzen Jiin, second son of Shuzen Tomi. My lovely wife is Kiara and those are my three sons and two daughters. I am here once again to speak of my brief yet memorable encounter with Lady Akasha."
Kurumu reached over and tugged on Moka's sleeve.
"Have you gone to these before?"
Moka nodded at her hushed words.
"And nobody told you Akasha was your mother?"
Mrs. Shuzen glared at Kurumu. Curbing her tongue, she waited for Lord Jiin to talk about his experience with Lady Akasha right after the fall of the Taizai household. It was a silly tale about how to handle his young daughters. The gist of it was that it was better to make his girls servants of his home than slaves to another family. Kurumu had her doubts, unsure if that was what Akasha had meant or what this man had decided it meant.
"I believe you are the next in line to speak on her behalf."
Nagi chuckled, nodding as he got up.
"I believe you are right, Lady Gyokuro. Though I'm of a mind to say we start with the meal."
"My oh my. We can't do that without the proper toast."
Nagi grinned, wagging his finger in the direction of the sassy woman. He snatched up a dark bottle which had been placed at the foot of the monument.
"Right you are. All those of Shuzen blood, lift your glasses. I shall make the rounds to fill your souls."
Moka took a deep breath and held up a glass which had been resting in front of her knees. Kokoa and Mrs. Shuzen did the same. Nagi made a point to come over and fill Mrs. Shuzen's glass first before attending to Moka or Kokoa. He then moved off to the right to service the glasses held in the hands of Lord Tomi and his family.
"I guess I don't understand how Akasha being your mother was a secret from you all this time."
"These stories don't talk about Akasha's relationship to Father or me. Most of the family don't even talk to me. And bringing her up always makes Mother upset."
"Because there is no point bringing her up. Nothing can be changed now."
Kurumu felt her heart twist from those words. It made her think of mommy.
"When will Lord Gun's funeral take place?"
"Lord Yoshiro has everything arranged for Wednesday. Your attendance won't be required."
Kokoa glanced up.
"Are you sure I shouldn't be there?"
"Your presence won't improve Lord Yoshiro's feelings over the situation. Lord Yoshiro insisted that the service be open only for his immediate family. Myself and the other Shuzen Elders will be attending this funeral, mostly out of formality."
"A toast!"
Nagi held up his drink, prompting all the vampires to do the same. The only exception was Ms. Juunan whom it was questionable how many knew about her status.
"In memory of a dear and beloved friend. I stand before a monument which is proof that she lived. It is not proof that she has died. She waltzed in and out of our lives so many times that I can only hope that one day she shall find her way back home."
"If only Lord Issa could firmly put his ass back in charge instead of fooling around in Tokyo."
"Is this discontent I hear, Lord Tomi?"
"Not at all, Lady Gyokuro. A man should never let his wife's bed become so cold."
Lord Tomi's sons chuckled in agreement. Nagi cleared his throat and raised his glass higher.
"On that note, I stand here with an empty heart and a full glass. I pray that one day, either by her return or acceptance of her passing, that I can end this toast with the reverse. To Lady Akasha."
"To Lady Akasha."
The vampires drained their glasses as Moka regarded hers.
"To Momma."
"Smile."
Yukari stood politely in front of Moka without a change of expression. The little witch held her hands together at her sash. Her black kinchaku and a clear bag containing three goldfish hung from her small fingers. Her kinchaku with a golden cord and a yellow sunflower design contained Yukari's clutch full of yen and any other small trinkets she had picked up from the festival stands.
"You can smile, Yukari."
"I don't want to."
"You don't have to show your teeth."
Yukari pouted, glancing aside. Kurumu shook her head as she regarded the witch in her phone screen.
"Get closer, Moka. Maybe if you press against her, she'll smile."
"Like this?"
Moka stepped in, draping her arms about Yukari's shoulders and clasping her left wrist. As she pressed her bosom against the back of Yukari's head, her pink kinchaku dotted with red strawberries and green leaves dangled against Yukari's chest.
"Come on, Yukari. Aren't you happy?"
Despite all the pictures Kurumu had taken for Kokoa and her girls on the wedding day, she had failed to notice the reluctance Yukari harbored over this activity. Her phone only had three pictures of Yukari in it prior to today and all were with someone else. She had one with Moka and one with Rubi while the last was an awkward shot of Yukari beside Fukai with Kokoa and Akegawa standing behind them. Both dark haired girls had blank expressions while Akegawa had this shy, nervous look. Kokoa had the worst forced smiles, coming off as devilish and creepy most of the time.
"I'm not taking the picture until you at least pretend to smile."
"I was called a cheat. I'm not happy."
"That was at least twenty minutes and a strawberry crepe ago."
It was not like they needed more goldfish anyways. After watching Kurumu and Moka fail miserably at scooping up goldfish with paper wands, Yukari had ordered them to stand aside. She had explained how it was simple, failing to do what she preached three times before catching her first. Declaring her success at finding the correct form, Yukari scooped up two more in two attempts before the owner kicked them out for using sorcery.
"Can you take our picture with my phone next?"
"Moka wants a picture of you, Yukari. Smile."
Yukari offered a thin, closed mouth grin which puffed her cheeks out. Kurumu smirked, taking the shot. She tagged it chipmunk and saved it to her external memory which had close to two dozen pictures she had taken today along with the eleven she had from the wedding day. The default camera setting was 640 by 480 which Fukai had assured her was good enough and would not eat through her memory.
Kurumu slipped her phone in her lavender tote which hung from her left elbow by its black leather band. Two plastic bags also hung from her arm, though one belonged to Moka. She clipped over on her sandals and held her hand out as Moka fished in her kinchaku for her phone.
"We should probably head over to Mother's spot on the riverbank."
Kurumu nodded as she took Moka's silver phone. The sun had slipped below the horizon, casting the sky in a colorful display which was bright enough to not require the streetlights yet. Kurumu retreated back to her original spot, flipping Moka's phone open and scrolling over to the camera function.
"Try to smile happier for Moka."
"I am smiling."
"It's not like we can see your braces."
They had arrived in Iromori a quarter after four. Before shooing them off, Mrs. Shuzen had given her two daughters ten thousand yen and the rest of them five thousand each to enjoy the festival, which had not opened until six. Her only instructions were to meet at the riverbank for the fireworks at dusk. Nothing had been said about dinner, but there was more than enough food available from the festival stands.
Snapping a shot which had a cheesy grin from Yukari, Kurumu saved the picture and walked back over to her friends. Moka detached from Yukari, holding out her hands. Kurumu returned the phone and slipped Moka's bag of goods off her arm, waiting for the vampire to put her phone away.
Needing to kill some time, Kurumu had asked Kokoa for directions to a music store. This bag of goods she handed over to Moka had a CD player and some compilations they had found on sale. Coupled with the CDs Kurumu had blown over half of her festival allowance on, they had hours of music. Kurumu wished she had thought to bring her CD player.
Kurumu had been mildly surprised with the albums Moka had selected. She knew from her times at Siren's Lullaby that Moka was familiar with current popular artists, but Moka had selected a bunch of older bands. The vampire had picked up Pleasure and Treasure from B'Z along with Umi No Yeah from Southern All Stars and Drive from Glay. Deciding to follow Moka's example, Kurumu had bought two greatest hits albums by Mr. Children, wanting to hear Namonaki Uta again.
"Should we look for the others?"
Kurumu shrugged at Moka's suggestion. There was only three blocks of stands for the festival which were all lined down this street on the edge of town. There were not that many people milling about since the residents only held this one night event under Lord Ruben's insistence. Almost half of these people were from the Shuzen clan. Confirming no signs of the others, Kurumu shrugged again.
"Kokoa knows where we're meeting up. She might already be there."
"Yea. We should go."
Taking Yukari's free hand, Moka started off in the direction of the bridge. Behind the stands on the left side was the river which bordered the small town. This narrow bridge which was at the end of the stands was the start of the main bike trail which connected Iromori to Touge Technical. Like Mononoke, there was a separate road for vehicles which connected the town to the school.
There was no forest in this barrier but the path up to Touge disappeared over the distant hilltop. She had learned from this grizzly bearded vendor of takoyaki that Touge Technical included a junior high and the local elementary school. It was one of the school's selling points. She smiled and waved at the vendor whom had been quite talkative about the town while they ate his wares. He had given them extras.
"Did either of you want to pick up any snacks?"
Yukari snorted, shaking her head at Kurumu's suggestion.
"I think you've had enough snacks."
"Didn't you run out of money?"
"I still have a couple hundred."
"You don't have to spend every yen she gave you."
Kurumu smiled at Yukari, guessing the witch had not even spent half of her funds. They passed the last of the stalls and crossed the paved walk which preceded the bridge. Some families were gathering on the grassy riverbank, stretching out blankets. It was unsurprising that most were from the Shuzen family.
Kurumu spied the scarlet haired Lord Ruben with his ruddy complexion. The broad man was being fed a biscuit by a slender woman with long pink hair which touched the black sheet beneath them. A pair of redhead boys roughhoused at their feet. His wife was a math teacher at Touge Technical, which she had assumed was for the high school at the time when she had spoken with Lord Ruben.
"There she is. Be quiet."
Mrs. Shuzen was sitting beneath a solitary tree at the start of a bend in the river which was quite the ways down from everyone else. The silvery figure of Ms. Juunan was beside the vampire. They seemed to be sitting close. In a few steps, Kurumu realized that the two were kissing.
Kurumu bit her lip, wondering if they should come back later, but Moka kept walking steadily. Nervously Kurumu quickened her step to make up for her hesitation. They were still several paces away when Mrs. Shuzen's eyes caught their approach, prompting her to pull away from Ms. Juunan. The succubus made a soft whimper as Mrs. Shuzen picked up a bottle and brought it directly to her lips, tipping it back.
"Mother."
Moka's word prompted Ms. Juunan to turn about. The woman smiled warmly, gesturing them over. A black sheet had been spread out beneath them with room in front of the pair and at either side.
"My oh my. You are earlier than I hoped."
"Evening, Ms. Juunan. Where would you like me to sit, Mother?"
"Spread out a second blanket for them."
Ms. Juunan rolled over on her hands and knees, crawling over to a bag. She rummaged through the bag.
"Where is Kokoa?"
"I don't know, Mother."
Mrs. Shuzen sighed, taking another drink from the bottle as Ms. Juunan pulled out a blanket.
"Your assistance, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu nodded, walking over to grab the other end of the blanket. They lowered the blanket down on the short grass, allowing some overlap with the first sheet. Kurumu got on top of the sheet, kicking off her sandals before crawling about and smoothing out the corners. Moka and Yukari also removed their sandals before stepping onto the sheet and kneeling down in the center.
"Did you drink blood from Ms. Juunan?"
"I can do with her as I please."
Moka glanced away as Ms. Juunan giggled. Yukari had linked her arm with Moka's and was leaning her head against Moka's left shoulder. As Kurumu crawled back to her sandals to move them next to Moka's, Ms. Juunan slithered over to Mrs. Shuzen's side.
"I hope that's a promise."
"This bottle is not empty enough."
"If it was, you'd have me fetch another."
Kurumu tiptoed over to Moka's right side, kneeling down next to her.
"Is Ms. Juunan marked by your mother?"
Moka nodded.
"I was unaware that vampires could mark each other."
"They can, Yukari, though usually only between lovers."
"Is your mother marked by Ms. Juunan?"
"I'm not deaf, Ms. Kurono. No respectable vampire would allow themselves to be marked by another vampire of no worth."
"You're so mean."
"Then you won't mind spending the night with the doll's friends."
As Ms. Juunan pouted, Mrs. Shuzen took another long drink from the bottle.
"You shouldn't be alone tonight."
"You're the one getting sentimental. If you need a warm bed to crawl into, the night is still young."
"I would rather buy you more wine."
Mrs. Shuzen glared at Ms. Juunan. With a slight shake of her head, she turned her gaze to Kurumu.
"How does Moka feel? Is this Memorial any different knowing everything?"
Kurumu glanced at Moka whom had bowed her head. The vampire smiled at Yukari.
"She's always known. And I've always known in my own way. We thought we were keeping it secret from each other."
Mrs. Shuzen nodded, taking another swig. She lowered the bottle, swishing the contents around as she stared at the open end.
"You should free my daughter. You know that."
Kurumu stiffened as Moka bowed her head.
"What difference would that make? Would you treat Moka any better if she was free?"
"Some things are done because they are right, Ms. Kurono. Not because they make things better."
Kurumu grimaced as the woman took another drink.
"No. This is different. You could be nicer but you don't want to be."
Mrs. Shuzen lowered the bottle with a laugh.
"It makes no difference. In the end, everyone leaves you."
"Now you're being a sad drunk."
Mrs. Shuzen snorted, upending the bottle over Ms. Juunan to reveal its empty status
"That would require me to be drunk."
"Yes, yes, Milady. I shall get you more so you can properly wallow in your misery."
Mrs. Shuzen smirked as Ms. Juunan took the bottle. The succubus stood up, smoothing out her yukata before walking over to the corner to slip on her sandals.
There was a long pause after Ms. Juunan's departure as the sky continued to darken.
"You must have seen something in Ms. Juunan's eyes. Why did you let Momma die?"
"It was unavoidable."
"There must have been some way."
Mrs. Shuzen stared across the river at nothing.
"That entire year, there was this constant chance of having to attend her funeral. Do you know what that's like? To see the funeral of someone over and over again."
"Were you aware that Alucard would awaken?"
"I was limited to what was within Sho's future. That never involved Alucard. The common trend was Akasha being dead with Akua and Moka both missing. Sometimes I buried both my daughters."
Mrs. Shuzen glared at them.
"So don't tell me I let her die. I was so sick of looking into Sho's future, knowing your father would write it off as the ravings of a lunatic."
"I'm sorry."
Kurumu nodded in agreement with Moka, though she felt frustrated.
"Could I have a picture of Momma?"
Mrs. Shuzen sighed, closing her eyes.
"I have one with Akasha and Issa in my nightstand. I can't bear looking at it."
"Then why do you have it?"
"Because some things you can't throw away, Ms. Kurono."
Mrs. Shuzen paused.
"I was going to give it to the real Moka when her seal was removed. I saw no point giving it to this doll. Now that I know the real Moka can see everything, I can part with it."
"Thank you, Mother."
Mrs. Shuzen took in a deep breath.
"I trust you all brought a change of clothes for tomorrow. I have decided not to have Mr. Nagi drive you ladies back to the Estate in the morning."
"Why not?"
"It's a family matter which does not concern you, Ms. Kurono. As I have relieved him of his chauffeur duties tomorrow, you three shall come with me."
"I thought you were going in to work first thing in the morning with Ms. Juunan."
"I am. So the three of you will have to be dressed bright and early. It's more than a two hour drive to Fukuoka so we have to depart from here by seven. We'll drop the three of you off at the airport."
"Airport? Why are you leaving us there?"
"Because you mentioned your senior, Morioka, would be interested in this situation with Ms. Otonashi. This morning I called one of my agents in the Kansai region to contact him. He has agreed to come here."
Kurumu grinned as her heart swelled up with warmth at the thought of Ginei being here. She turned her eyes on Moka, noting the vampire had a similar expression. Yukari was content nuzzling against Moka's arm, betraying no interest in the conversation.
"Ginei is coming, Yukari."
"I don't care."
"Don't be like that. I'm sure he will be a lot of help dealing with this Kamiya."
"Like he helped with Midou and Kuyo? I think your expectations of that dog are too high."
"Yukari."
"She may not be wrong, Ms. Kurono. The ending I saw for Lord Kamiya did not appear to involve any of the young men whom tag along."
"I knew he was worthless."
"You relied on him to save Rubi."
Yukari blushed at Moka's remark.
"I trusted him to run away."
Kurumu chuckled, reaching over to tousle Yukari's locks.
"I'm sure he will help out in his own way."
There was a fairly long pause as the sky darkened to the point that it was difficult to make out distinct features of the people closest to them. Motion catching her attention, Kurumu smiled as she recognized the shapes of five young women approaching. A sixth tailed not far behind them moving with a familiar sway of hips.
"It seems Ms. Juunan found Kokoa and more wine."
"She won't be happy until I agree to share my bed."
Kurumu chuckled, not daring to ask how often this happened.
"Mother!"
Kokoa waved animatedly, skipping over to them. Her hair had been pulled back in a single braid. She bounded over to Mrs. Shuzen's sheet, kneeling down and slipping out of her sandals. The girl quickly crawled to her mother's side as the other girls stopped at the blanket's edge.
"Nagisa braided my hair. Isn't it pretty?"
Mrs. Shuzen reached for Kokoa, touching her shoulder.
"Come up in my lap, Kokoa."
"Huh? Why?"
"To keep unwanted advances at bay. Come now."
Kokoa awkwardly clambered up on top of Mrs. Shuzen's knees. The mother gently turned the girl about till she was seated in her lap. Letting out a sigh, Mrs. Shuzen draped her arms over Kokoa and tugged the girl back against her bosom.
"Mother?"
"The rest of you young ladies may sit down as you see fit. There should be room for everyone."
The others murmured their thanks, removing their sandals. Fukai settled in next to Yukari, holding her phone in her hands while her thick goggles were in place over her eyes. Taniguchi smiled at Kurumu, taking a seat next to her while Akegawa and Antai took up posts about Mrs. Shuzen.
"I think it's so awesome that you're sending us to Hawaii, Mrs. Shuzen. Thank you so much."
"I understand you're the one whom asked Mrs. Rena to make a serving outfit for you."
Antai smiled sheepishly.
"Yes, Mrs. Shuzen."
"We will ship that to Kokoa for you when she's finished with it."
"I don't want her wearing servant attire."
"Nonsense. We will also be sending you one for Ms. Kurono."
"That's different."
Mrs. Shuzen smirked, tightening her arms about her daughter.
"Be a good girl, Kokoa. Don't fuss."
"Is something wrong?"
"Yes. There appears to be a young lady in my spot."
Kurumu smiled up at Ms. Juunan whom knelt down on the sheet. She had two wine bottles in each hand. Setting them aside, she removed her sandals.
"Is that all for Mrs. Shuzen?"
"That depends on how long it takes for her to say yes."
"Move aside, little one. She'll molest you if you don't."
Akegawa shyly crawled around in front of Kokoa, allowing Ms. Juunan to take her place on Mrs. Shuzen's right. The succubus grinned popping off the cork and presenting the bottle to Mrs. Shuzen. The vampire promptly took it away, letting it rest in front of Kokoa's face.
"Would you like a taste?"
Mrs. Shuzen relinquished the bottle to her daughter whom took a sip before handing it back. The mother lifted it up and took a longer drink.
"I wonder what it would be like to have a mother and a daughter."
Mrs. Shuzen wagged the bottle at the succubus.
"Another comment like that and you won't get to use your tongue later tonight."
"My oh my. Is that a promise?"
Mrs. Shuzen hung her arm back over Kokoa's shoulder. She closed her eyes and sighed.
"She's all grown."
"Oh, she might have a year or two left."
"I meant Kahlua."
Ms. Juunan giggled, scooting in close against Mrs. Shuzen's side.
"Don't worry, love. I'm still here."
"Ms. Fukuda will be here to pick you girls up at ten. Don't leave anything behind in the hotel room."
Akegawa nodded from her place next to Kokoa's knee.
"We made sure everything was out of the vehicles, Mrs. Shuzen."
"Good. I'm relying on you, Ms. Taniguchi. Keep an eye on my daughter and these girls."
Taniguchi laughed nervously, rubbing the back of her head.
"I guess, though I don't know why you think I'm more reliable. I'm the youngest of these four."
"And I'm the oldest."
Antai grinned with a thump on her chest.
"Try not to make things difficult on Ms. Fukuda. She has trouble dealing with young women."
Kokoa snickered as Antai pouted. Her mother lifted the bottle to take another long pull before settling her arms back in place about Kokoa's neck. The vampire sighed again, turning her cheek and rubbing it gently atop Kokoa's head.
"Mother?"
"Have another drink."
Kokoa took the bottle, following the suggestion. Kokoa cradled the bottle to her bosom as she glanced up at her mother.
"Are you okay?"
"I'm cold. And you're warm."
"I love you."
"Nonsense, silly girl. Nonsense."
Kurumu barely noticed the start of the fireworks. Her attention was fixated on a daughter held closely in her mother's arms.