My Devotion

by Ravenhale1

This is the third installment in the AU recreation of Rosario Vampire told through Kurumu's POV. This story starts around midterms and continues through the following month (June 4th - July 9th, 2005) to cover first season's Chapters 13-28 (though 18&19 happen first). Not strictly canon.

12. Sight Seeing

The rain was slowing from this gentle drizzle as they sat under a covered bench beside a small pond inside the Yuki Park Zoo. Yukari stood at the wooden rail that flanked the pond, tearing up a loaf of bread. She tossed chunks into the water much to the delight of the koi.

It was unusual seeing Yukari wear her black cape which hung from the white shoulder vest clasped together by the ruby brooch over different clothes. Most of the time Yukari wore the simple school blouse and skirt like yesterday, though those had been discarded. Her cape had survived solely due to its magical protection.

Moka had helped Yukari into that unique marigold blouse. The front zipper was tucked behind the jagged black hem in the front which was pulled together by toggles. Her black miniskirt was wrapped about her tiny behind with loose ties hanging at the sides. She wore a pair of yellow stockings which were clipped by a black garter belt worn beneath the skirt over a lacy pair of black panties. Yukari had not been kidding about getting some mature things from Hiboshi.

Yukari was a young woman. She might get taller and her body would develop more in certain areas, but she had not resembled a child this morning. Everything fit snug so there was no pretense of required growth. The outfit clearly was made with the intent of being worn by a fully mature woman. Kurumu could not pretend Dakuhime or Nerume would change much physically in the next couple years.

Kurumu sighed at the thought of her dismal wardrobe selection. There was nothing enticing about her navy, cotton shorts or this school blouse. While she loved the comfort of these lavender boyshorts, she begrudgingly felt Yukari had sexier underwear. It felt pathetic to be beaten by an eleven year old.

Tsukune timidly touched her knee. He was wearing a long sleeved dress shirt with thin, gray vertical stripes which was tucked in the school's tan slacks. A pink umbrella was placed on the bench between them while a bag of souvenirs was resting on his other side. He smiled softly at her before returning his gaze upon Yukari.

Ms. Nekonome sat at the end of the bench on his right. The teacher had a yellow sundress which hung almost to her knees. Smooth white leggings graced her ankles and stretched up beneath the dress. A white, short sleeved vest was worn over the dress to hide her shoulders. The teacher had been her benefactor due to her lack of finances, helping her afford meals and the three souvenirs she wanted to give Nerume, Satsuki and Mizore. She had wanted to pick out more, but Ms. Nekonome had laughed about there being limits to generosity.

Most of the film club had returned to the hill with the bus driver. The driver had effortlessly convinced Mr. Umatobi that Yukari had decimated the guardians making the hill safe. When murmurs started about there being something else living on the hill, the driver had chuckled dismissively, certain that such a person would be more interested in Yukari than worrying over a half dozen students playing with cameras. Under the pretense that Mr. Umatobi and the driver would be enough deterrent, Sangi had agreed to take all but Uchiyama and Chouda back to the hill to do their filming.

After breakfast they had started on a lengthy tour of Kofu. They had walked a solid hour before arriving at Kofu Castle. Yukari had made it quite the ordeal, clinging tightly to Moka's waist. She had been so nervous about the close proximity of everything, despite there being few humans out and about due to the time being around when most would be at school or work. At least the witch had not tried any shenanigans with Moka, given that the vampire had worn that scarlet corset dress which was a bit much for a walk in the city. She looked more prepared for a formal event than some casual tourism.

Moka's choice of outfit had been heavily influenced by Ginei. When the vampire had been rummaging through her many options, the president had noticed the garment and had suggested her to wear it to match his vermilion dress shirt. He had even worn a black tie, black slacks and glossy loafers to be just as formal as she was. If they had stuck together, they might have looked like a couple.

The humans did try to have some foliage. A lot of residences they had walked by had trees and bushes packed inside their tiny yards. But everything was so compact. The road was narrow and there were so many signs and posts and unforgiving concrete.

About fifteen minutes into the walk they passed by a pagoda temple on the left which was cut into the hillside. There was quite a bit of forest visible not far off the beaten path to the left, possible due to the slope being too much for the humans to work with. To the right was buildings as far as one could see.

The structures became multistory shortly after that, obscuring the pretty view of the forest. They walked by all sorts of shops from florists to barbers. Vending machines seemed to be everywhere. Some of these businesses prettied up their storefronts with bushes and trees, but she could understand why Yukari disliked it. Landscaping was not the same as the freedom of life seen on the hillside.

By the time they reached the end of the narrow road which intersected a wider road, the buildings had become so tall. They were much taller than the dorms on campus and everything was so close together. They had opted to cross the street because the far side had rows of trees. Every now and then they could see off to the left the pretty forested hillside. They had to keep pointing this out to Yukari whom was unsettled with the traffic of so many vehicles on this larger road.

They walked by a convenience store and a pink Jonathon's diner, which Kana promised had much better food than McDonalds. They were steadily walking away from the hillside as they continued down this road that was flanked by all sorts of buildings of different sizes and shapes. There were dozens of apartment buildings with balconies, though not much laundry was hanging out due to the forecast.

They had eventually crossed a river which had been about halfway through their walk. There had been a sign for the high school, though that was somewhere off to the left and they were so far in the city that everything looked congested. They passed by signs for a lake and a hospital before eventually making a right turn down a narrow alleyway through a small residential area. So many little houses tucked close together with barely any room for their compact cars to fit in their driveways.

Though it was cramped, that small leg of their initial journey had been the quietest. After passing through a parking lot they were back on a road that flanked a pachinko parlor. They had crossed a large bridge over the train rails, before spying Kofu Castle on the other side off to the left.

Kana had suggested visiting the castle first because it was a nostalgic playground for her and Saedi back when they were younger than Yukari. The two of them would play small pranks on the human tourists that visited the site. They would do things like throw their voices from the well and pose as flower girls while making their wares dance or change colors. Foreigners were better victims since they were less capable of spreading rumors.

Saedi was a younger image of her mother, with her hair drawn back in a ponytail and long bangs that she often brushed out of her steel blue eyes. She had also bleached her hair white though her tresses still had a slight greenish hue at the base. With Kana and Saedi both taking more after their mothers, it was difficult to see the family relationship despite them wearing identical blouses and pleated skirts.

The two had showed them around the sights, chatting about their memories and educating them a little about the place. There were some tourists milling about but not enough to cause Yukari worry. The girl would switch clinging from Moka to Tsukune but consistently turned down Kurumu's attempts to be close. She was still miffed about Kurumu's words from yesterday.

They had to take their time at the castle with Chouda becoming extremely interested. That mint haired girl had barely taken notice of the city but her periwinkle eyes had lit up walking up those wide concrete steps. She really looked the part of a foreign tourist, taking pictures of the spire and the temples from many different vantages. Her only gestures were for people to get out of her shot.

Chouda had spoken up several times, which was rare to hear the soft, murmur of her voice. It was mostly just a string of awed phrases and curt requests but she had also thanked Yukari for saving her, though she had no recollection of the incident. It turned out that Chouda was the senior living alone in the double suite 316 next to Yukari's, but she had never felt an appropriate time for introductions. She was not from Uonuma, instead hailing from Nagaoka. She did not know Honda or Tobuyoku saying she had always kept to herself and that her parents lived in the city near Yukyuzan Park. The only two classmates she remembered from her Junior High were Hatsutori and Kirameku, the other film club seniors. She did not mind their absence, advising Yukari to stay clear of them. She warned that these two had thrown together some unsanctioned loli appreciation club to idolize little girls.

Around eleven it had started to rain and Kana had decided it might be fun to show Yukari the science museum. Ginei and Uchiyama had both been reluctant but with Chouda agreeing to it and everyone else not really caring, they set out. Kana tried to encourage Yukari about how the city was not much different than Mononoke, which really was not well thought out considering Yukari had only bothered visiting Mononoke once back when they had followed Inui and she had not shown any interest in going back.

They had walked on a bike path alongside the train tracks. It was a quiet alley behind some homes and then they ducked under the tracks through a short tunnel to get on the other side where a small road flanked the train. This path elevated up and caught another winding trail that took them through some vineyards. It was a lovely bike trail that left the bustle of the city. Looking back had been an impressive sea of urbanization with majestic mountains in the distance.

After cutting through the field they had come to the end of a residential road with some houses. They had ran up two long flight of steps, passing one parallel road before turning right down the other. These were all really nice homes, possibly for the elite human class. Near the end of this high road had been a paved ramp up that came to another small road flanked by a row of trees. Cutting through these trees, they had walked out into the museum's parking lot.

With their arrival being around noon, they had eaten at the small café inside the museum. While most of the museum's wares were snacks and trinkets, they did have drinks and sandwiches and soft serve ice cream. Not the healthiest of lunches but they did not need much after the large breakfast this morning.

Yukari had remarked about this facility being geared for kids, given the huge playground outside and the numerous play activities inside. She was dubious about how enjoyable such a place could possibly be for someone of her intellect. Despite her attitude, the witch ended up mirroring Kurumu's playful behavior, grinning ear to ear as they romped about the exhibits.

Ginei had jokingly tried to pass Kurumu and Chouda off as first year Junior High students only a year older than Yukari to several of the workers there. At first it had been annoying but seeing how Chouda did not even try to correct him, Kurumu had eventually went along with it. It was not like there was any price difference as all students paid the same, and they got less stares for acting like idiots.

Poor Ms. Nekonome had her hands full once they all got going. Only Tora had remained rigid in her adult behavior, admonishing the boys to act their age and to help her keep an eye on Chouda. In an attempt to keep things under control, Ms. Nekonome had everyone sit down for an hour long presentation in the space theater. While that had calmed everyone, it had killed interest in sticking around the museum. At least it had stopped raining at that point.

Upon hearing Yukari's aspirations to go to college, Saedi had proposed visiting Yamanashi Gakuin University, which would have been less than an hour walk from the museum. However with it already being after three, Kana had suggested heading to the zoo instead. Kana worried that the university would be too much for Yukari. In the end, Ginei had headed off to the university with Saedi. Promising to take pictures, Uchiyama had tagged along and convinced Chouda to keep them company.

For the most part, they had walked back across the vineyards together. They had taken a slightly different path, cutting through a graveyard before crossing the train tracks. With some quick hugs and Tora exchanging numbers with Saedi, they had gone their separate ways.

It had been another twenty minutes of walking down narrow roads and back alleys before they had arrived at the zoo. They were fortunate to have Kana around since none of them had a clue where they were going. It was just buildings everywhere and Ms. Nekonome was as much lost as the rest of them. They had arrived here around four and had aimlessly wandered about the exhibits ever since.

There were some visitors at the zoo but the rain had discouraged most tourists away for the day, which made things somewhat tolerable for Yukari. They had split up over an hour ago since Yukari needed a bathroom break and Kana wanted to show Moka more animals. Tora stuck with them.

For some reason, Kana was by herself and was meandering over to them, holding her sketchbook to her chest while a white umbrella shielded her from the mild drizzle. The blonde ducked under the cover protecting their bench, lowering her umbrella and shaking it out. After closing it up, she slipped her hand through the little loop at the base of the handle. Pulling her phone out of her breast pocket, she glanced at the screen before stuffing her sketchbook into the bag of souvenirs.

"Have you guys seen the others?"

"You were supposed to be with your group, Ms. Zukkutani."

Kana shrugged as she tapped the keys on her phone.

"I think they might be in one of the indoor exhibits. I'll text Tora and find out."

"How did you get separated?"

"I sat down and started drawing a sketch of one of the exhibits. Moka wanted to keep looking and Tora has my number. This is the first time she's ever been in a zoo."

Kurumu smiled, grabbing Tsukune's hand on her knee. Her fingers entwined in his as she leaned in against his side.

"This is my first time in a zoo. I don't know if there were any near us back when I lived among humans."

"I've gone several times to Yagiyama in Sendai. It's only about an hour away and there was a time I was obsessed with lions and tigers."

"Oh? I wonder if you would admire Tora's true form."

Tsukune chuckled.

"From what I've seen, she's more bird than lion or tiger."

"That's because she's being pushed to fly."

"Pushed by you."

"Mhm. So you haven't been to a zoo recently?"

"I haven't been to the zoo in about five years."

"Why is that?"

"You know how it is. You get a little older and realize there's not much future in zoology. So you find other things to obsess over."

"Like video games?"

He chuckled again.

"I've seen some of Aono's sketches. He's really good."

"Any luck on finding Tora and Moka?"

"They said they were headed for the main gate. I have a suspicion Nazohashi is upset."

"Which one's the main gate?"

"I told them it's the one on the west side after the fountain."

"You're pretty fast at texting."

"I wish they made more phones with texting pads. All the ones out are bulky and expensive."

"Why didn't you just call them?"

Kana smiled at her. She plopped a hand atop Tsukune's head and tousled his hair.

"You should ask your parents for a drawing pad."

"I don't know if I want to trouble my parents like that."

"Digital is the way of the future, Aono. If you want a serious career in art and graphics design, you're going to have to get used to drawing on a computer."

"I'll think about it."

Kana grinned, slipping around the end of the bench and squeezing in the tiny bit of space Kurumu had left. Making room, Kurumu handed Kana the pink umbrella so she could sit closer to Tsukune. He smelled good and she could feel his body respond to her pressing so close.

"Yukari. Please come in out of the rain."

Yukari responded to his nervous call, throwing the last bit of bread over the railing before turning to them. The witch tucked her arms in beneath the cape, slowly moving to join them.

"How are you feeling, Yukari?"

"I want to head back to the inn."

"We have to eat somewhere before that. Then we go back home."

Yukari sighed, clearly annoyed with his patronizing tone. Lifting up her cape, she clambered up on the bench between his knees and turned about, sitting in Tsukune's lap before he could react. Kurumu giggled, nuzzling against his shoulder as he reluctantly rested his free hand on the witch's waist. He grunted as she wiggled for comfort.

"Yukari, you're too big for this."

"Ms. Sendou. That can't be comfortable for Aono."

"None of this has been comfortable for me."

Kana reached over to brush Yukari's shoulder.

"I'm sorry. I figured you have never been to a zoo before."

"I've never been to a prison either."

Tsukune chuckled and Kurumu could not help but join in.

"Don't say that. It's a nice place and I knew it wouldn't be crowded."

Yukari relaxed against Tsukune, grabbing his free hand into hers at her belly.

"The rain is nice. But none of these creatures are happy. They tolerate it, because they can do nothing else. They don't want to be here any more than I do."

"I'm sorry. I've always liked the zoo. It's like humans trying to appreciate the world about them."

"It's weird, Ms. Zukkutani. Why can't humans just leave these poor things alone?"

Tsukune smiled softly.

"Yukari. Some of these animals have been bred in captivity. Others are endangered and humans are trying to keep them from going extinct."

"Part of the reason why these animals are going extinct is because humans have destroyed their habitat. Humans caused it so other humans try to fix it. There's just too many of you."

Tsukune chuckled, causing Yukari to sigh. She kicked her legs up draping them across Kurumu's legs as she turned to press the side of her head against his chest. Her eyes met Kurumu's before she lifted a finger and tapped Kurumu's nose.

"Can you not see this mess? So much lifeless concrete. Dirt would be preferable. Humans are like worse versions of ants, scurrying about with the simple motive of scavenge as much as you can and build. Build, build, build. This place could be pretty like the countryside."

"Yea, but humans wouldn't build zoos or leave historical monuments like Kofu Castle if all they cared about was using up space."

"There are good people, Ms. Zukkutani. But there are many more that don't care."

Kurumu frowned at the unexpected comment as Ms. Nekonome stood up from the bench. She walked over to the edge of the cover, holding her hand out. The weather had been clearing up and the surface of the pond was barely being disturbed.

"I hate the rain."

"Ms. Nekonome?"

"You should text Ms. Nazohashi that we will be heading over."

Kana grinned, clapping her hand on Yukari's ankle.

"I think nobody's going anywhere with this little minx sprawled across our laps."

"If you would. Please, Ms. Zukkutani."

Kana shrugged, getting her phone back out.

"I wonder how the others are doing up on the hill. Do you really think senior is right about it just being a wild pack of garigari?"

Yukari breathed a deep sigh as she absently traced circles on Tsukune's breast pocket. Kurumu smiled, pressing in close to his side. She could tell he had conflicted feelings about this but was not about to toss the witch out of his lap. Kurumu reluctantly let go of his hand so that she could grab up Yukari's to at least spare him of the halfhearted nipple teasing. Yukari sighed again.

"Maybe. It's possible there was nothing controlling those beasts. Their former master could have abandoned them years ago. Witches don't live forever. Neither do dryads or other fey spirits that are known to tame those magical creatures."

"I had never heard of a garigari before yesterday. I wasn't aware my kind was associated with them."

Yukari squeezed Kurumu's hand.

"Moreso than witches. Kodama can easily influence beasts of that nature."

"But I didn't sense any kodama on the hill."

"That is strange. Is that why you were so certain a witch was involved?"

Kana shrugged.

"I don't know. Can witches make a place so scary that the kodama won't inhabit the land?"

"I have no idea. I can't sense kodama. I control energy, not spirits."

Tsukune frowned.

"Then how does a witch control magical beasts like the garigari?"

"Domination. Garigari don't have much of a mind, so it's not as difficult of a spell as it would be if you wanted to control a more sentient being."

Tsukune shuddered before giving Yukari's waist a rub.

"I hope those things were wild."

Yukari nuzzled the side of her face against his chest.

"Do you think they will put us in zoos?"

"What?"

"Monsters. When humans realize monsters exist. Do you think they will put people like Kana, Kurumu and me in zoos so that humans can admire us?"

"They won't do something like that. Monsters are sentient beings capable of understanding each other. It's not the same as animals."

"So if something can't talk, it doesn't need to be respected."

"I didn't say that."

"I don't want to be in a cage. I want to go back to the inn."

"Ms. Sendou. Could you please extract yourself from your classmates?"

Yukari groaned, taking another heavy breath. She swung her legs back out and scooted out of Tsukune's lap. She fluffed her cape and fixed her hat as Kana took the opportunity to get up from the bench.

"Okay, Moka and Tora have been waiting by the front gate and are wondering what's delaying us."

Kurumu chuckled, getting up and allowing Tsukune to grab the umbrella and souvenir bag. It was a heavy bag, so he promptly handed it over to Ms. Nekonome, whom slung it over her shoulder like it weighed no more than a purse.

"What's your thoughts, Ms. Nekonome? My parents have never really talked about what would happen if somebody found out that I was dryad."

Ms. Nekonome sighed.

"Honestly? I think humans don't need us. There's no incentive for them to include us if we suddenly let them know about us. I could see them demanding us to leave the country."

"Or put us all in extermination camps."

Tsukune paled at Yukari's remark, shaking his head.

"Humans would never do that."

"They have before. This is not ancient history we are talking about. Less than a hundred years and many of the elder monsters were alive for these purges. They personally know what it was like."

Tsukune frowned at the teacher's quick remark.

"Are we talking about the things that humans do to each other in Europe and China? Japan has never done anything like that."

Ms. Nekonome smiled softly.

"Mr. Aono, please don't believe that humans in Japan are morally superior to humans around the globe. That's nationalism and every country's citizens have similar notions when looking at us."

Tsukune frowned.

"I don't see how the people of Japan would do that. There's no reason for them to do it."

"You don't seem to grasp how many monsters aren't ever officially Japanese citizens. A majority of them aren't born in human hospitals. Fairy Tale helps families establish citizenship through their connections, provided you have the funds. If it came out tomorrow that monsters lived among humans and the humans had a full list of all monsters throughout Japan, I imagine many would be deported as any illegal immigrant is treated."

"But where would they be deported to?"

"I don't know, Mr. Aono. I hope that would be the worst case, though Ms. Sendou is correct about the possibility of extermination camps. We could be deemed too dangerous a risk to live. After all, we've spent so many centuries in hiding that humans would naturally distrust our intentions for coming out."

"I just don't understand why you think humans would not accept things as they are and would actively push monsters away."

"Cost. Granted, many of us are registered citizens. I would say easily a third of all monsters are. But it would not surprise me if as many as a million monsters are not registered as citizens."

"There's that many?!"

Yukari smirked at his surprise.

"Compared to the human presence in Japan, that's nothing. We're talking all monster races combined."

"Indeed. We should not keep Ms. Nazohashi and Ms. Akashiya waiting."

Ms. Nekonome started off down the path on the right. They all fell in step behind, Kurumu taking Yukari's hand. For the first time today, the girl allowed her. Tsukune thrust his hands in his pockets.

"I just feel like you're not giving the human race enough credit here. There will always be jerks that only care about themselves in every species. A person should be judged by their actions."

"I understand that, Mr. Aono. We all know there are good people in the world but change without profit seems to take a lot of time. I don't see monsters making their presence known until there comes a time when the common man's opinion actually means something. It's the people in control that would have no need for us and it is their opinion that matters."

"I'm sure they might consider using us for military reasons, but that impulse would come with the understanding that we are a threat. This is why I believe extermination is a valid result."

Kurumu squeezed Yukari's hand.

"Oh, so zoos are out?"

"It was a passing thought. If we make ourselves seem harmless, maybe they will pity us."

They reached an intersecting path and turned left towards the fountain. Tora and Moka stood all the way at the end of the path near the white metal posts that held up the zoo's sign. Tora had a dark green, buttoned blouse with a wide pointed collar. She had the blouse tucked in a curve hugging pair of denim jeans with a white belt fished through the loops. Moka was holding the umbrella.

"I worry that races like mine would be deemed too useless."

Kurumu frowned at their teacher.

"But you must be a registered citizen. You have a teaching degree."

"I am, and that's true, but I'm sure a minority like me taking a job from a human would be frowned upon. They could take my degree from me, claiming I lied about my origins. There's no reason for kindness and even less reason to assume it will be shown to us."

"I don't think they would deport you, Ms. Nekonome. Aren't you engaged to a human doctor?"

"I have put my wedding off for so many years. I've always know my difficulty to suppress my true form would never allow me to teach in a human school. I knew when we married, the most sensible thing for me to do would be to retire and focus on having a family."

Kurumu smiled as they walked about the fountain.

"Is that so wrong?"

"It's not. I just… I wanted to make a difference. I don't feel like I have."

"Why don't you marry him and continue teaching at Yokai?"

Ms. Nekonome laughed softly.

"I don't think you are aware of this, but Yokai and Mononoke are within a special barrier. It's one thing to let a monster come and go as they please and a much different thing to give that liberty to a human."

"So why don't you commute to and from?"

"And where would we keep our kids?"

Kurumu paused as understanding struck her. It really was not as simple as she thought.

"I'm sorry."

"It's fine. This recent thing with Ririko has really made me think this will be my last year. That poor woman did not get much of a chance and here I've been squandering mine for nearly a decade."

They reached the end of the path and Moka waved to them. Tora had her phone tucked in her back pocket which bulged considerably.

"Have you heard from your cousin?"

Kana paused short of the pair, glancing down at her phone.

"No. You want me to text them?"

"I have but I don't know if the girl realizes it's me. It is an Osaka number."

"I'll handle it."

Tora sighed, shaking her head.

"I swear that boy is more trouble than he's worth."

Kurumu chuckled.

"He's flirting with Saedi."

Kana laughed as she punched in buttons on her phone while Tora rolled her eyes.

"I'm well aware what he's doing. It's annoying."

"How are you holding up, Moka?"

Moka smiled at Tsukune.

"I'm doing fine. Tora let me handle the umbrella so we could peruse the zoo at our leisure."

"Did you enjoy it?"

"I loved it. I wish we could have stuck together though."

Tsukune shrugged with a slight smile.

"I thought about sending Tora a text, but figured you needed a break from Yukari."

"Hey!"

Kurumu chuckled, squeezing Yukari's hand.

"You have been close to her most of the day."

"Is that wrong?"

Tsukune grinned, shaking his head as he turned to Ms. Nekonome.

"I'm curious since you mentioned her, but when is Ms. Kagome going to return to teaching our class?"

Ms. Nekonome frowned, glancing at Kurumu. Kurumu glanced aside, wondering if the teacher had expected her to talk about it.

"I guess it would not be known but Ms. Kagome took a job offer from another school. She helped grade midterms and has left to help her mother find a residence closer to her new workplace."

Yukari glanced up at Kurumu as the others exchanged surprised expressions.

"Why was this not announced?"

"Class one was notified of this. I'm sure the rest of the students will know by the time we return."

"Did you know about this, Kurumu?"

Kurumu sighed, nodding.

"It was a wonderful opportunity that opened up a month or so ago and that school has been struggling with that vacancy. We are rather fortunate in that Mrs. Itou was a former math teacher before switching to electives to make more time for her children."

"So Mrs. Itou will become our permanent teacher?"

"Yes, and she shall continue to handle her elective till we find a suitable replacement."

"Okay, Saedi and the others were heading for the zoo because I told them that was where we were. I just told them to meet us at the Denny's by the Bookoff."

"Bookoff?"

Tora perked up.

"It's a bookstore of sorts. You can buy a lot of used books but they have also included whole sections devoted to manga."

Kana gestured down the busy street to her right.

"Shall we? We'll get there about a half hour ahead of them but we can use that time to secure a table."

Yukari took her hand back and fussed with the toggles of her blouse till they were lined up perfectly. Kurumu smiled, letting her hand drift to the girl's back and giving a slight push as they started walking with the group.

"Do you want to hold my hand? There are a lot more people out now."

"I'll be fine."

It was true. With it being after six, there were easily thrice as many people milling about as they had seen in the morning. The traffic was also much worse but they quickly crossed the street and cut down a tight alleyway on their left. It was not even wide enough to be considered a bike path.

Kurumu chuckled as they crossed another street, gesturing to the pagoda building ahead of them.

"What is with all the temples?"

Tsukune shrugged as they walked down a one way road with the pagoda on their right. A yellow wall prevented view into the property.

"Probably another cemetery."

Yukari sidled up beside him, grabbing the fabric of his shirt. With her free hand, she brushed her locks behind her ear.

"How far is the walk to this Denny's?"

"I don't know. Ten, fifteen minutes."

Kurumu nodded as they steadily walked down this path till it came to an intersecting larger road with stoplights. The light was in their favor and Kana gestured for them to cross quickly to the other side. Once there, they turned right and headed down this busy, large street.

"You seem to know the area well, Ms. Zukkutani."

"I guess. I get to be here at least once a year. It might be spring break one time and winter break the next but we try not to go too long without visiting family. My dad only has one brother."

"What about sisters?"

Kana laughed.

"He only has one of those too. She lives in Tokyo so normally she comes to visit us to get out of her busy world. That can happen whenever she gets free time. My mother has quite a bit of family, but we don't visit any of them consistently due to some of them living in monster communities."

"Fair enough."

"What about you guys? Any extended family visits?"

Tsukune chuckled.

"I only have the one cousin, Kyoko from my father's side. My mother is an only child."

"I don't think I have cousins. We have big events at the Shuzen estate, but we are the only children."

"My father is an only child. My mother has two younger sisters, both of which elected to change their last names on marriage. I do have four cousins, all girls, but the oldest is eight years younger than me."

"Can a sphinx have boys?"

"I thought I mentioned this."

Kurumu frowned.

"I don't think so. You said there was a male version of your species."

"Yes, and if we are fortunate to find one of them, we can have boys. The pressure is truly on them as they can only make more of them by finding us, whereas we can always make due with humans."

Tsukune chuckled, shaking his head.

"I find everything so fascinating."

"It's worrisome, Tsukune. Humans don't have any special rules to make more humans. I sincerely hope you are not envious of any of us."

They had to stop at a large intersection with a light. Kana grinned, gesturing at a large building across the street on the other side of the intersection.

"That's always a possibility."

"What is?"

"Pets. I know some of our 'useless' races are adorable enough to be kept as pets."

Ms. Nekonome sighed.

"That's depressing, Ms. Zukkutani. I would rather not think my future children will be regarded as nothing more than a sentient cat."

"I didn't mean it like that."

Yukari huffed as the light changed, allowing them to proceed.

"I find it troublesome that a dryad takes the situation so lightly."

"I'm sorry. I've just always assumed what Aono thinks. Humans won't care. I feel like they would either idolize us or ignore us."

"Sounds like this was an interesting conversation you guys had before joining us."

Kurumu chuckled at Tora. She could see the Denny's and Bookoff sign further down the road on the other side of another intersection.

There was plenty of sexual attention directed at her from drivers and pedestrians. She wondered if it was simply because she had bigger tits than the gorgeously dressed vampire beside her. With her short, blue hair, she probably looked like a delinquent. She just needed some black lipstick and facial piercings.

She had to wonder what people thought about Tsukune. He did have a little girl dressed like a witch hanging off his shirt. He probably looked like an older brother. While Tora was tanned, she still looked native. Moka and Kana both looked as foreign as their teacher.

"Hey, Kana. Do you know enough English to pretend you're a foreigner?"

Kana snickered.

"We used to try that but Saedi can't prank the locals. Some know where she lives."

After pausing a moment at the light, they crossed the road and walked through Denny's parking lot. Their teacher walked purposely towards the glass door.

"I'll see about getting us a table."

"Hold up, Ms. Nekonome. I want to duck into the Bookoff for a bit. The others are an easy twenty some odd minutes away, if not further."

Ms. Nekonome frowned.

"I suppose you could, but I need one of you to stay with me so that we can call the others when our table is ready."

Tora sighed, pulling her phone out of her back pocket.

"I can go in with you. I also want to check out the Bookoff but I can do that after we eat."

Kana pressed her hand on Tora's shoulder.

"Thanks, Nazohashi. You're a lifesaver."

"Text your cousin and remind her that this number is your classmate so she doesn't ignore it when I try to call about the table."

Kana giggled.

"Okay, I will."

Kurumu gestured at the glass door Ms. Nekonome had slipped through.

"You want to go inside, Yukari?"

"Not really. Can't we just order our food to go?"

"I don't know. Maybe we can."

"It won't be any different than eating in the dining hall, Yukari. You've done that before."

"I've tolerated it. And the dining hall is huge. This is a tiny box."

"Okay, we won't go in yet."

"You guys want to come with me to the Bookoff? It's just right there."

Kurumu shrugged, supposing standing here instead of there made no difference. She touched Yukari's back and the small witch sighed. With no further encouragement, Yukari started down the sidewalk though the rest of them caught up to her with ease.

"I've never been in a Bookoff before."

"Do they have Bookoffs in Tokyo? I know they have them in Yamagata."

"I'm sure I've heard of them before."

They walked across the small road that divided the Denny's and the parking lot for the Bookoff. A decent sized group of boys were gathered about outside. There was a display for some unfamiliar anime. Kana, whom had taken the lead by several paces, took no interest in the gathering and made a straight line for the front door. The girl ducked inside as some of the boys glanced over at them.

A flood. That was the best way to describe the lechery that poured out from this mob of young men dawdling about the parking lot. Whatever that series was, they promptly lost interest as some of the boys took their phones out and started snapping pictures of them. Kurumu sighed, carefully keeping her gaze astray as her mother had been correct about it being more troublesome for humans. She imagined Tsukune simply had developed a minor resistance to her eyes over the past months.

"My God! Is that girl a foreigner?!"

"That dress?! Do you think that could be cosplay?!"

"Is she one of us?!"

The boys quickly pressed in on them which had Kurumu at a loss. She quickly grabbed hold of Moka, holding a hand out at the boys crowding in. The air seemed to change, becoming hotter and smellier.

"No. We're Japanese."

"Is she a model?"

"Are you kidding? This girl is hot too!"

"She's shy but who cares about eyes with a body like that!"

Kurumu smirked, shaking her head. Most of them were dressed in the same outfit so she assumed this was a collection of boys from the local high school. They did feel a bit too old to be junior high.

"Okay, boys. My friend and I are on a school trip this week. Our other friend is inside catching up on her latest manga fix. I have never read a comic in my life."

"This little girl is so cute!"

"Is that cosplay?"

"Tsukune!"

The boys had shoved Tsukune aside and were closing in on Yukari. Kurumu could not see the girl's face so she doubted Yukari could see them.

"Hey, ease up, guys! She's with us!"

"Is that a tweeny witch costume?"

"If you bleached your hair, you could look like Sheila."

"Can we take your picture?"

"Say something mean and rude!"

"Leave me alone you pathetic humans!"

"Oh, she's a Sheila!"

There was a series of clicks as the boys leveled their cameras at Yukari.

"Back off!"

"Hey! She vanished!"

"What?! How is that possible?!"

Kurumu pushed a couple boys aside and looked around frantically. The boys were bewildered, looking at each other but there were no signs of Yukari.

"She's gone? Did she use magic?"

"No way!"

"Tsukune?"

Tsukune threw his hands up, shaking his head.

"I don't know, Kurumu. I couldn't see her and I don't know where she is."

"Yukari?"

"Hey, do you want your picture taken?"

Kurumu scowled, leveling a gaze at the skinny boy and letting him think he really needed to get something inside the store. As he wandered off in a stupor, she pushed another guy aside as she looked about for any trace of the girl.

If anything happens, you could always vanish.

"Moka, have you seen Yukari?"

Moka shook her head at Tsukune, looking down the sidewalk further up the road.

"I don't know where she is, but we have to find her quickly. Frightened like that, there's no telling where she might have run off to."

"I thought she was scared of the city. Why would she run off like that?"

Kurumu shook her head as she came up beside him, grabbing his sleeve.

"Because she's scared of crowds. She's probably hiding in a quiet alley or someplace like that."

Moka frowned, gesturing down the street.

"There's a bunch of crows flying into that alley. I've not seen that before."

"Let's go!"

Tsukune took off running, his legs carrying him much faster than either of them could manage. Kurumu had too much bounce to keep up and Moka's corset dress was not made for running. Tsukune careened around the corner into the dark alley several strides ahead of them. They could hear the caws of crows as they closed in to do the same. The sounds stopped abruptly and the only thing they found upon turning the alley was Tsukune doubled over, panting and shaking his head.

"What happened?"

"Where did the crows go?"

"I have no idea."

"Tsukune?"

He held his chest as he stood upright.

"I saw a young woman with long, flowing hair. Like Ms. Genzouyaki's. Very dark. She took Yukari's hand and the two of them vanished with the crows. It was like they walked through a magic door."

Kurumu frowned, not liking the sound of that. She darted down the alley, looking about.

"Did they say anything, Tsukune?"

"I couldn't hear anything over the crows. I was about to call out but she was gone before I could catch my breath. I'm sorry."

Kurumu wrung her hands as Moka touched Tsukune's shoulder reassuringly.

"We'll find her. Perhaps crows are drawn to this other woman."

Moka closed her eyes and touched the back of her ear. Kurumu realized what Moka was trying, pausing and trying to do the same. All she could hear was the bustle of the city.

"Moka, use the whistle Ginei gave you. He has better hearing than any of us."

Moka shook her head and pointed beyond them.

"That way, I think. Many of them. High above, like a rooftop."

Kurumu darted back to the end of the alley, looking up and about. Several blocks down she did see the flutter of several dark birds circling a building. She waved her hand as she started off in a trot.

"There! You're right. I see them."

Tsukune easily caught up to her, letting his stride match hers.

"Who do you think this woman is?"

"I don't know. I've never heard of a fairy that befriends crows."

"Some witches can."

"So it's a witch?"

"She seems to think so."

"From the hill?"

Moka shook her head, frowning.

"Maybe. She isn't sure. It makes no sense for her to have come here."

"Why else would a witch be here?"

"It could be coincidence. But if it is a witch of the hill, Yukari could be in danger. I'm sure she would not be happy about Yukari killing her guardian plants."

Kurumu quickened her pace as much as she could. They turned left down a road that flanked the brick building. She could see black railing mounted into the roof to prevent someone from easily stepping over the side. The building must have roof access. They turned right into the small parking lot and hurried over to the front door of the complex. The door would not open without a keycard.

"Damn! Is there another way up?!"

Kurumu grabbed for her blouse, undoing the top two buttons.

"I could fly."

Moka smashed her fist though the glass door, moving her left arm up and down. Bloodied gashes tore open across her skin as she stepped in closer to break out more sections. While the cuts in her arm wept crimson, almost none of her blood dripped onto the floor. Only some smears of blood remained on the glass shards scattered about.

"Moka! Are you okay?"

Moka nodded at him as she bashed more of the glass out till it was a large opening with only a small jagged shards jutting from the frame. She ducked through the opening, gesturing for them to follow before she jogged down the hall on her right. They quickly caught up before she reached the stair at the end of the hall.

"It always amazes me how quickly Moka resorts to property damage."

Moka favored her with a pained look.

"We can't have you flying. People might see you."

Kurumu panted as she took the stairs two at a time. They were going up the third flight and she could not hope to keep pace with Tsukune.

"Tsukune, please wait."

"The roof door is chained."

"I'm on it."

Kurumu came up to the last landing as Moka yanked the chain off as easily as someone would tear down a band of paper stretched across an opening. Tsukune pushed the handle down that had been chained and leaned in with his shoulder to shove the door outward. He stumbled forward, his back foot catching his other ankle and he fell out onto the roof.

Gripped by a sudden fear, Kurumu lunged forward unaware that Moka had done the same. The vampire came into view and she could not change course. She barreled over the vampire, both of them falling on top of Tsukune. He groaned under their combined weight.

Kurumu quickly knelt up, careful not to put her weight down on her knees without feeling the firmness of concrete beneath her. She patted his shoulder as Moka crawled off him.

"I'm sorry, Tsukune."

A line of crows were perched on the rails enclosing the perimeter of the roof. Two figures stood at the far end of the roof. The taller woman caressed Yukari's shoulder as she turned her gaze upon them. Just as Tsukune said, she had inky black hair that was long and beautiful. She had two tails tied with white lace jutting out from behind her ears to fall down to her pale shoulders. Her bangs had been cut neatly across the center to keep her long hair out of her eyes.

The black, sleeveless crop top clung tightly about her ample bosom without baring her skin. Green rope was wrapped about her throat so many times that it resembled a scarf. Her midriff was bared. A long, tattered skirt billowed about her legs. It was the same color of fall leaves. As the woman turned fully, the skirt parted slightly at her left hip, exposing most of her leg. It was more like this skirt was a curtain that the woman had wrapped and tied about her. The black hose that graced her leg was torn and unkempt like most of her outfit.

"It seems we have unwanted company."

As Tsukune picked himself up on his knees, Kurumu took the cue to get on her feet. Moka was up first and gestured her hand out.

"Yukari. Come home with us."

Yukari gestured at the woman.

"This is Rubi. She lives on the hill and wishes for me to help defend it."

Tsukune shook his head as he got up.

"Yukari, you can't be serious. We're going to get dinner and then go back to the inn."

"I'm sure it's a misunderstanding, Tsukune. Let me help her."

Tsukune glanced at the woman whom was tense and had drawn out a stick from the folds of her skirt. The branch curved about like a sickle at the end. Yellow string was wrapped about a red gemstone in the center of curve and tied to the branch, much like the web of a spider. Looking away from her, he walked slowly towards Yukari and held out his hand.

"Yukari. We could go home tonight. You want to go back to Yokai, right? Let's call this trip a bust."

Kurumu nodded, gesturing for Moka as she walked forward. She managed a smile for Yukari.

"We're just worried for you, Yukari. That woman is dangerous."

"She's nice but uneducated. I can fix this."

Tsukune stopped a couple paces from Yukari, smiling as he held his hand out further.

"Come home, Yukari."

Yukari frowned. Sighing she held her hand up and took a step forward.

It happened with a flick of her wrist. A gust of air slashed out from the woman like a sword strike. By instinct alone, Tsukune fell back so the cut raced up his shirt, tearing fabric with blood spraying everywhere. It was much worse than what she had just seen Moka endure. He hit the roof hard, his face twisted in pain.

"Don't let them fool you, Yukari! Humans are the enemy and must be slain without hesitation!"

The woman thrust her wand out as her body erupted in crow wings. Three sprouted from each side, long and narrow like the ones Yukari would use. The look in her eyes promised death.

Moka dove down on top of Tsukune, trying to pick him up but he cried out, shaking his head. The vampire touched about frantically as the boy panted and clenched his jaw. Kurumu could see shards of his ribs that had splintered under the assault. So much blood. If he had not fallen back, this woman would have cut him in half.

Yukari held her hand out to Tsukune, her eyes distant. She was defenseless.

"Stand back, Yukari!"

Kurumu darted around her friend, thrusting her arms out wide.

"I won't let you-"

The grip on the back of her blouse startled her as she was thrown down to the rooftop. Yukari stared down at her, frighteningly detached.

"Yukari?"

"You're right, Rubi. Enemies must be slain without hesitation."

Yukari swung her hands out, glancing aside. Several barricade rails tore free from the roof, snapping apart from each other to form makeshift spears. With a gesture, the black projectiles came towards them under Yukari's command. A tear rolled down Yukari's cheek. There was no killing intent. Kurumu felt nothing at all.

"Don't."

Yukari turned and the spears followed her gaze. They tore through the unsuspecting Rubi, two passing clean through the witch to tumble over the side of the building. The older witch staggered back, barely keeping hold of her wand. She clutched one of the spears impaled through her right breast. Gurgling, she yanked it out, letting it fall beside her feet.

"Why?"

"Because you're my enemy."

Rubi nodded, seizing the black metal protruding from her gut. With a snarl, she tugged it out and hurtled it towards Yukari with surprising speed and accuracy. With a casual gesture, Yukari caused the rod to spin off to the left and clatter against the railing.

"I gave you a chance."

Rubi tore out the last of the spears, hopping back to stand precariously on the pointed tip of the rail behind her. Dropping the bloodied metal over the side, the woman scowled. She fell back, her wings pumping to twist her about. Clutching her wand and injuries, the witch sped off.

"I'm not done with you."

Familiar wings shimmered into existence from Yukari's sides. The young witch thrust her wings once and shot after her adversary.

Terrified of what might happen, Kurumu quickly unfastened a couple buttons so she could yank her blouse over her head. She tossed the garment aside as she picked herself up from the ground.

"Kurumu, he's dying! What should I do?!"

Kurumu let her wings slice out her shoulders. She hesitated, but knew there was nothing she could do for Tsukune. She had to protect Yukari.

"What you have to, Moka. I'm sorry."

"Wait!"

Moka fumbled with her wrist, yanking the whistle off. She tossed it at Kurumu.

"I'm sorry."

Clutching the whistle, Kurumu took off with tears in her eyes. She had no idea what the time was, but the sun had yet to set on the western horizon. Sadly, it was pretty easy to find the two witches. It was not like there was a ton of people flying along the rooftops. She could only hope most of these humans would be too stupefied to do anything about the spectacle.

Yukari was racking up the property damage. She was tearing things off the sides of buildings to throw at Rubi. It was hard to say if she was missing on purpose or if she could not hit a target that could turn on a dime. Rubi had amazing control even in her battered state.

Kurumu had nearly caught up to the two as they flew by a large, multistory apartment building. It was a massive structure that had less floor space as it ascended. Flying around this building and the temple it flanked, she arrowed up beside the witch.

"Yukari, stop!"

It was the distraction Yukari needed. The other witch looked back, surprise crossing her face. She did not see the electric box Yukari yanked off a pole to broadside the fleeing witch. Sparks flew as the woman screamed. She hit the roof of residence with enough force to shatter the tiles. Silently she tumbled over the side to fall unceremoniously into the alley.

While Yukari circled about for an easier landing, Kurumu swooped down almost on top of the witch, buffeting her wings to hover before setting her feet down. She skipped over to Rubi as she quickly drew her wings back in.

"Her wand, Kurumu."

Kurumu noted the curved branch was still clutched tightly in Rubi's hand. Kneeling down over the woman, Kurumu rolled the woman over on her back. She tugged the branch out of Rubi's grip as Yukari settled down in the alley a house away. Kurumu chucked the wand towards Yukari, though it clattered on the concrete several paces shy.

"Stand aside, Kurumu."

Kurumu frowned, looking up at Yukari. The witch had dispelled her wings. She walked unsteadily towards her, the same dead expression in her eyes. Shaking her head, Kurumu turned her attention back to the felled woman, feeling the side of her neck.

"She's still alive."

"Allow me to fix that."

"Yukari, stop!"

Holding a hand at the girl, Kurumu looked over Rubi. Much of the bleeding had stopped. It was amazing the woman was not in worse shape. She must have resorted to healing magic during her flight.

"She's a murderer, Kurumu."

"And this is no different."

"You would spare a woman that killed Tsukune?"

Kurumu's heart twisted.

"He's not dead! He's not! Moka will take care of it."

"By giving her blood. You know he might not survive that. If you won't let me, than kill her yourself."

Kurumu sighed. The last time she had considered killing someone she had been driven into a corner and had nobody to consult with. This was different.

"Is she a threat without her wand?"

Yukari picked up the curved branch, turning it over in her hands.

"Maybe. Depends on how clever she is."

"We can't kill her, Yukari. What would we tell Tsukune?"

Life flickered in Yukari's eyes. The witch glanced aside.

"It was an accident."

Kurumu sighed, shaking her head.

"You know he won't believe that."

"If he dies, it doesn't matter what he believes."

Kurumu could feel some attention. She glanced down the alley, noting a couple humans peering down at them. She leaned down, scooping up the unconscious witch and staggering up on her feet.

"We can't stay here."

Yukari touched her head, stumbling a step to the side. She glanced about, stepping closer.

"Where are we?"

Kurumu shuffled towards Yukari, wanting to put some distances between her and those curious humans. She had no interest in explaining why she was not wearing a blouse.

"I have no idea. Can you make this girl lighter?"

"Yea. Same spell I used for the mail. Transfers the weight to you."

"Whatever, just do it. I'm not used to carrying dead weight."

Yukari sighed, placing two fingers on Rubi's shoulder. The weight instantly shifted as if ceased to exist. Having had much experience shifting her weight for flight, Kurumu knew not to question it.

"This won't work if she wakes up."

"I won't have to carry her if she's awake."

"This is dumb."

Kurumu managed a smile. With the weight of the girl managed, she was able to free her hand enough to present the whistle to Yukari.

"Then call Ginei."

Yukari sighed, taking the whistle from Kurumu.

"I guess that boy does have some uses."

---

Kurumu wandered about the room aimlessly. Yukari sat by Tsukune, whom remained unconscious. The witch absently caressed his bangs. She was dressed down in the inn's evening robes, having finished her bath with Saedi and Sangi more than an hour ago.

"Take your bath, Kurumu. All the other girls have."

Kurumu shook her head at him, continuing to pace about Tsukune's still form. The club president sighed, rubbing his red bandana as he lounged on the floor next to the door. It had taken Ginei a couple minutes to find them after blowing the whistle. Not wanting to be without communication, the young man had carried Saedi along for the adventure. It had been such a smart thing, considering he had as little idea how to navigate the city as the rest of them. Saedi had guided them back to the inn, calling Kana to let her know about the change in plans.

About fifteen minutes into the walk, Saedi had stopped at a restaurant and ordered some okonomiyaki to go. As it took almost an hour to get back to the inn, they had eaten their dinner by the time they arrived. With it being a few minutes shy of eight, the film club had already returned from their trip on the hill. Yukari had not felt shy about identifying Rubi as the murderous witch that plagued the hill and that her crazy friends felt it was smart to nurse the psychopath back to health. She then ordered Saedi and Sangi to join her for her bath.

About a half hour later the rest of the group arrived with Tsukune in his current state. Moka had been blubbering and unintelligible, worried that he might not wake up. Tora, Kana and Chouda had pulled the distraught vampire aside to take their bath. With Ginei having returned from his watch over Rubi in his room, she imagined the others must have finished.

"You're not going to do any good walking about like an idiot. Take your bath before it turns ten."

"Go tell the boys to start their baths. I'll take mine when I feel like it."

Ginei chuckled, leaning his head back against the wall. He glanced up as the door was slid open.

"Do you need me to try healing him again?"

Kurumu smiled at Tora. Like all the girls, she was dressed in the inn's robes. Her hair was down once again, still wavy from the braids.

"It won't make a difference. His wounds are healed, unlike that witch."

"I'm reluctant to use my healing on her. She has all but confessed to murder."

Ginei wagged his finger at Tora.

"We don't know that."

"You do. She's the one that controlled the garigari and tried to have me eaten. Since I destroyed her guardians, she was hoping I would help her kill humans in their place."

Ginei sighed, cupping his chin.

"It does look bad. It also explains why the film club had no issues on the hill."

"So why are we harboring this criminal?"

"We couldn't leave her in some back alley for the humans to find. It's also better for everyone if we know where she is. Can you put up a barrier?"

Tora sighed at his request.

"It doesn't work that way. I can't keep her in."

"It would prevent her from using magic with any artifact she might have prepared. Her wand would be rendered useless."

Tora smiled softly at Yukari.

"But that goes the same for you."

"A witch lacks super strength and speed. Any of you could overpower her. Possibly even Tsukune."

Ginei chuckled, holding up a hand.

"I wouldn't mind if you left the overpowering to me. She's a true child of nature."

Tora frowned.

"What's that supposed to me?"

"Let's just say that girl wouldn't understand the purpose of a lingerie shop."

Kurumu smirked, not caring for him to explain that.

"Tora, don't let this wolf sleep next to that girl."

"I wouldn't worry. He wouldn't take advantage of a helpless woman."

Kurumu was a little surprised at how serious Tora deflected her joke. She smiled at the sphinx.

"How is Moka?"

Tora shrugged, sliding the door fully open to lean back against the doorframe.

"She's exhausted. It's well after nine and I think she'll collapse soon. The only thing keeping her conscious is her worry over his condition."

"Where is Ms. Nekonome?"

"I think she's still downstairs, discussing what they will do tomorrow."

Ginei sighed, rubbing his bandana again.

"Sangi stopped in while you guys were in your bath. They need another day to finish their film."

"When was this trip going to conclude?"

"We were going to wrap things up early enough to be back for dinner on Friday."

Kurumu sighed.

"What should we do?"

"You should have let me burn her to ash."

Yukari caressed his hair as she regarded the bandages wrapped about his chest.

"It would have simplified things."

Tora frowned at Ginei, tapping her foot on his knee.

"That's not the point."

"I know. Quite the waste of a pretty package."

Tora sighed, ignoring him to regard Yukari.

"What happened, Yukari? Moka was unable to articulate the circumstances that brought about his condition. It took us quite some time to find her."

Kurumu still felt guilty about that. While the whistle had allowed Ginei to quickly find them, she had trouble explaining on the phone where they would find Moka. Calling Tsukune's phone had not helped with Moka in hysterics.

"She introduced herself and asked that I help defend her sunflowers from the humans."

Yukari swallowed down a ragged breath as she touched his shoulder.

"I tried. I knew she murdered those humans but I hoped it was a matter of her not understanding spells that could misdirect and harmlessly turn away trespassers."

Her eyes watered as she lifted the hand to brush away the hair behind her ear.

"I wanted to help her. That's what you guys do. You try to reason and compromise. It's my fault."

"It's not your fault."

Kurumu knelt down in front of the witch, touching both sides of her head as Yukari looked away.

"It never works. I know it never does. I thought with us both being witches, maybe it would be different. I should have just killed her. He wouldn't have gotten hurt."

Kurumu pulled Yukari against her blouse which had been returned to her. The girl shivered, shaking her head. She sniffled as her small hands touched Kurumu's sides.

"It's not your fault, kid. All of us would have tried reasoning with her."

Kurumu sighed, relaxing her grip on Yukari.

"It's our fault. We were too focused on Yukari and should have tried talking to Rubi."

"It would have played out no differently. You're nothing but filthy humans to her. That's why she waited for me to be alone. She never wanted to talk to you."

Kurumu smiled softly, brushing the back of her hand across Yukari's cheek.

"Well… I think I surprised her with my wings."

Yukari snorted, letting go of Kurumu to rub her eyes.

"What shall we do about Tsukune?"

Ginei shrugged, looking up at Tora.

"You know I'd appreciate it more if those robes were a little shorter."

Tora smirked as she absently touched the hem of the robe that brushed across her knees.

"Seriously. What's the plan?"

"I don't know. The last time we had to leave him in the hospital a whole day. Same thing. His body looks fine but his mind has checked out."

Yukari took in a deep breath and shook her head.

"We can't take him to a local hospital. He has too much vampire blood in him. Who knows what they would do after taking a blood sample from him?"

"I see you are all having the same conversation as we did downstairs."

Ms. Nekonome walked around Tora, wearing the robe with a towel hanging over her shoulders. She glanced about the group, smiling softly as she gingerly stepped between Tora and Ginei to pad softly over to her souvenir bag resting against the far wall. Kneeling down, she opened a side panel to retrieve the bedding for the evening.

"What have you decided to do?"

"If Mr. Aono is not awake by the morning, we shall take him home."

Ginei sighed as the teacher chucked one of the futons towards them.

"So that's it then. Trip's over."

"No, it will be a special trip for Mr. Aono and anyone that wishes to accompany him. Mr. Nurari has reluctantly agreed that the boy is in no condition to remain here."

Yukari huffed, crawling over Tsukune to grab one of the futons Ms. Nekonome had tossed over.

"I'm glad that useless driver conceded."

"We should be getting to bed. Most of the boys are already in the bath, Mr. Morioka. If you wish, you may join them."

Ginei smirked.

"Kurumu and I will be enjoying a late night bath together."

Tora pawed at him again, but he caught her ankle.

"Shall I find out if you have anything on beneath this robe?"

Tora blushed as she yanked her foot from his grasp. He grinned, crossing his arms about his chest.

"Mr. Morioka. Another comment like that and you will be switching rooms with Ms. Kurono tonight."

"Yes, Teacher."

Kurumu smiled at the pair, hoping Ginei would behave himself as she did not want to spend the night away from Tsukune.

"Ms. Nekonome. What are your plans concerning Rubi?"

"You mean that witch you brought that says she's from the hill?"

"Yes."

"Mr. Nurari wants to take her to the Headmaster. He was planning to do this even before we convinced him that he should take Mr. Aono."

"That's strange."

"Like the Headmaster, Mr. Nurari's motives are difficult to understand. He has worked with the Headmaster longer than any of the staff."

Ginei frowned.

"I thought ole man Maruyama has been with the faculty since it opened."

"He almost has. Mr. Nurari has been here longer."

Kurumu vaguely recalled that Maruyama was the homeroom teacher from the senior class two. That princess archery girl was the class rep.

"What does he plan to do with her?"

"He did not say. It's not like he works for Fairy Tale, so I doubt he plans to have her executed."

Yukari finished rolling out the two futons between Ms. Nekonome and Tsukune while the teacher handled her own. The teacher had pulled out a small stack of sheets, which Yukari crawled over to get.

"I still think we would be best turning her into ash."

Ginei chuckled, shaking his head.

"Clearly we can't leave that poor, defenseless girl under Yukari's watch."

"What else could he do with her?"

"I could think of a few things if I want to switch rooms tonight."

Kurumu grinned as Yukari drew blankets over the futons.

"Don't. I want to sleep next to Tsukune."

"Thinking your love could bring him out of it?"

A hand grabbed Tora's arm. Moka poked around the girl, her eyes puffy and her face swollen. She rubbed her nose with her free hand as she peered across the room at Kurumu.

"Can I borrow Kurumu?"

"You look horrible, Moka."

She smiled at Ginei, glancing aside.

"Thank you."

Picking herself up, Kurumu stumbled her first step before sauntering over to Tora. Placing one hand on Tora's shoulder, she reached over to caress Moka's cheek.

"Hey. You should sleep."

"I need you."

Moka grabbed her by the wrist and shoulder. The vampire tugged as she stumbled back in the hall. Careful not to bowl Tora over, Kurumu twisted as she hopped out of the room and into Moka's unsteady arms. The vampire leaned in, draping her arm across Kurumu's back as she directed them down the hall.

"What's wrong, Moka?"

"She says you can do it."

"Do what?"

"Pull him out of that nightmare."

"He's sleeping."

"It's too much. It hasn't even been a week since last time. He's going to die."

That was not something Kurumu wanted to hear right now.

"Moka, they're going to take him to the hospital tomorrow."

"That won't help. Only you can do it. You have to pull him out."

Kurumu sighed, leaning against the vampire. She could not think about it. She took a deep breath as the vampire hugged her. She had no idea what Moka wanted, but she had to remain calm. Everything would be fine. Tsukune was safe and would wake up soon. If that meant she had to do something, she could do it. She took another deep breath.

"Okay."

Moka let her free of the hug to grab her wrist. The vampire tugged her through the open door of the adjacent room. Tora had wandered in behind them as Ginei paused at the door.

"You guys going to be okay?"

"Take your bath. I can watch these two."

Ginei nodded, tousling Tora's hair to the point that she smacked his shoulder. Chuckling he wandered off out of sight as Tora closed the door behind her.

The girls must have pulled out their futons after their bath. Ruby was laid out the farthest from the door with a blanket drawn over her frame. She wondered if Tora would seriously have Ginei sleep next to the witch. Last night both boys had slept closest to the door. Tora had reasoned it was better for girls to crawl over sleeping guys for late night bathroom breaks.

Moka tugged on her, guiding her to the back corner nearest the door. Kurumu frowned as Moka pushed her into the corner and pressed down on her shoulders. Confused, she acquiesced as Moka knelt down in front of her.

"What are we doing?"

"You have to enter his dream."

"Wait. Are you two doing dream world stuff?"

"Yes. She says it's the only way."

"Um… you have a dangerous witch in the same room."

"She's not waking up soon. Her internal injuries are too much."

"That's… reassuring. I'm glad you calmed down, Moka."

"You have to leave the room, Tora."

"What's going on?"

"It's dangerous. Vampire blood has a will of its own. A vampire learns to control this at a young age but the Rite forces someone to forsake their body to become one of us. It's supposed to be drawn out over months, sometimes years."

"We know this Moka."

"If Tsukune wakes, he might not be Tsukune anymore."

"The ghoul you warned us about."

"She warned you about this. We have to go inside his mind and find him."

Kurumu frowned.

"Find him? Won't he just be there like any other time I've gone in his head?"

"It might not be him. The blood has its own will. Like the small phantom girl Tora projects."

Tora touched her breast.

"Oh dear. Another personality."

"Yes. More primitive. Feral. Dangerous."

"Well… good luck with that. I'll be outside a few minutes and come back in to watch over your bodies."

Kurumu chuckled before favoring a pouty look at Tora. The sphinx smiled apologetically, closing the door behind her as she left. Kurumu sighed and then felt a familiar sweetness from Moka. The vampire had glanced aside, blushing.

"She says you should get naked."

"You should have said that before pinning me in a corner."

"I'm sorry."

Kurumu worked enough of her buttons loose so she could pull off her blouse again. She tossed it over Moka's shoulder, quickly unhooking the front clasps of her bra to sling it off in the same direction. Getting up halfway, she tugged her navy shorts and panties off in the same motion, stepping out one foot and then the other. She let her tail ease out before sitting back down, pitching the last of her garments onto the futon with her blouse.

"You know there's a solid chance that Tsukune might have sex with me."

"He's more likely to kill you, Kurumu."

Kurumu bit her lower lip as she brought her spade up next to her left ear. Grabbing it at the base, she opened it slowly.

"Would he really?"

"She'll help you as much as she can."

Kurumu took a deep breath, letting go of her tail to tug on her earlobe. Bringing her other hand up, she knifed through the thin flesh. She could tell her ear was becoming used to this. It barely bled as she guided her stigma into the familiar place. She sharply inhaled, closing her eyes as she felt the subtle change about her.

"What a complete disaster."

Kurumu smiled softly, opening her eyes. The silver haired Moka stood up next to her, garbed in the robes of the inn. Kurumu absently felt the robe drawn over her body as she got up. There was nobody else in the room.

"Yukari should have killed that bitch. You are all a bad influence on her."

"Don't say that."

Moka grabbed Kurumu by the robes and roughly forced her up against the wall with one hand. Her eyes blazed as she gestured at the empty cot at the end of the room.

"That woman could have wanted revenge. Your soft hearted bullshit could have gotten your friend killed and it might have cost you Tsukune. You need to take better care of yourselves. I don't want to feel her losing any of you. Do you understand me?"

Kurumu gnawed her lower lip as she reached up to caress the side of Moka's face. The vampire flinched, pulling back. Kurumu pulled her hand back to her chest, peering up at Moka.

"I don't want to lose anyone either."

"Don't look at me like that."

Moka abruptly turned away, stalking off for the door. She slid it open and stepped out into the hall. Nervously Kurumu followed after as the vampire made quick, decisive strides for the adjacent room. She opened the other door without glancing back.

"He might kill you in there. Keep it in your head that none of this real. No matter what he does to you, don't believe it. As long as you separate the two, he can never truly kill you."

Kurumu nodded as she wandered into the room behind Moka. The only occupant within was Tsukune, lying on his back as he had in the real world. Bandages wrapped his shoulder and upper torso. His shoes and socks had been removed while his tan slacks had been loosened enough to reveal the hint of his black boxers beneath.

Moka knelt down beside him. Her shoulders bobbed with a heavy breath as she leaned over him, tracing two fingers across his brow to curl about his cheek.

"Such a foolish boy. I've weakened myself too much to let you die on me now."

Kurumu managed a smile as she knelt down on his other side.

"Thank you, Moka."

"I'm just here to help distract him, Kurumu. You're the dream barbarian here. He might have enough blood to throw you out of his head just as easily as I did, so you need to be stubborn."

"I don't know how to do any of this."

Moka laughed softly.

"You'll have to learn quickly because the other Moka can't handle him if he wakes up insane. He could kill us all."

Comprehension dawned upon her. The powerful Moka was sealed and Tsukune could not remove the rosary in his current state. Kurumu managed a smile as she held a hand out to Moka. The vampire took it and Kurumu placed her other hand on Tsukune's forehead.

It was confusing. The terrain about them was this indecipherable mix of shadows and shapes. The sky overhead was dark crimson with glistening flecks of white scattered about the expanse. She squeezed Moka's hand, confirming that the vampire was still with her. As if pulled from the shadows, Moka materialized wrapped in shadows and crimson. Her pale flesh was a stark contrast to everything else about them.

"What is this?"

"Blood. Death."

"Thanks. Very helpful."

"It's a nightmare, Kurumu. Not everything will make sense."

"So where is Tsukune?"

"Somewhere. Maybe everywhere. Be on guard."

Kurumu sighed. This was frustrating. Every direction she looked was the same. She took a deep breath and willed the darkness to make sense. It slowly obeyed her whims, forming into a shadowy hillside covered in black foliage.

"That's helpful."

"Thanks. This is nothing like the time I entered his mind in the hospital."

"When did you do this?"

"After you met your mother."

Moka glanced aside.

"Mother's blood must have calmed him. We must be careful though. Her presence is no longer enough to keep this chaos at bay."

Kurumu frowned.

"What do you mean by her presence?"

"Her blood is an extension of her will. I can feel it when she gives me hers. Control, calculating, caution. She was the perfect complement to the chaos and freedom my birth mother's blood provides."

"I don't understand. If you have both mothers' blood in you, why does Tsukune have only chaos?"

Moka sighed.

"Because one blood wants to escape."

"But shouldn't your blood mix?"

"It should over years but most vampires don't have a seal slapped on them before they fully develop. I can't answer your questions truthfully, Kurumu. I don't know all the answers. We have to find Tsukune."

Kurumu grimaced. None of this made sense. If they were in his dream, why was he not here? She touched her head, trying to will him into existence. She thought of him wearing the black tee shirt and cargo jeans. He should be in front of them, but there was nothing there.

"Maybe I should try his room."

"What do you mean?"

Kurumu slammed the two of them into Tsukune's dorm room. It was a small room, but it was dark and the night sky visible through his narrow window remained crimson. The stench pouring in from the hallway was so thick it made them both cough. Kurumu let go of Moka to cover her mouth, noting that the room was empty but that the door to the hallway was gone. A glistening tar substance was spilling across the hall floor as the world shifted several degrees down from the source of this disgust.

Kurumu shook her head. Tsukune was not here. She whisked them off to the pool. The fence surrounding them was twisted and jagged like barbwire. Chunks of flesh and offal hung from it as the smell of rotting flesh enveloped them. Kurumu grimaced again as she staggered back, trying to restrain her reflex to retch.

"That's original."

A bulbous body pulled itself out of the pool, bile and blood spilling across the paved stone. It lumbered towards them. Moka cocked her head as it neared, her body lowering into a defensive stance.

Seeing no reason to fight something that clearly was not Tsukune, Kurumu took them to their classroom. Several bodies filled the seats, wearing the green jackets of their schools. They were all shadowy male figures, rounded spheres turning to regard them with burning, crimson eyes.

Moka sighed, presently dressed in the school uniform. She crossed her hands below her bosom.

"Are you really that scared to face me, Aono Tsukune? I've always known you were nothing but a useless coward."

One of the shadows coalesced into Tsukune's form and lunged at Moka. She smirked, sidestepping the blow. Her eyes widened as she twisted to avoid another fist that swung out from a different form. She hopped away from the figures and Kurumu as more and more of the shadow students firmed into clones of Tsukune. Moka's hands were up for a fight, but her eyes betrayed her alarm.

"Anywhere but here, Kurumu!"

Kurumu spirited them off to the sunflower field. Only one Tsukune figure came with them and it lunged at Moka with ferocious intensity. The vampire darted back but had to hop aside again when Tsukune instantly recovered to launch another attack. He was so fast that Moka could only defend.

Kurumu felt she could do something. She darted in to make her presence known. He turned on her quickly but the severity of killing intent made his quick strikes telegraphed. Like Moka, she could do little else than dodge but her presence created an opening for Moka to deliver a kick that staggered him.

She was not fast enough to do anything but dodge. She twisted and hopped about, trying to take the small openings he created when turning on Moka but immediately having to shift back on the defensive. Moka was clearly better, but her blows where not even slowing this rabid Tsukune creature.

"You have to touch him, Kurumu. Get inside him."

Kurumu realized the only way that could happen would be to let him hit her. She could take a glancing blow. She twisted into his next strike, feeling his fingers tear through her shoulder like it was butter. She snaked her arm over him, touching his back as her body collided with his.

She stared dumbly as his other hand grabbed her by the hair and yanked back with enough force to snap her neck like a twig. Her head was torn free and thrown aside, bouncing across the sunflowers. She heard Moka scream and start fighting him with renewed fury as her limp body fell to the ground.

It was surreal because she had watched the whole thing. She absently touched her throat, noting it was still intact despite her head being clear off in the distance. She glanced to her right at a mirror image of herself. To the left it was the same. She gestured out to the field, off in the distance and the ground dipped down beneath Tsukune's fit, causing him to stagger.

"Kurumu?"

The ground snapped in on Tsukune much like a venus fly trap. Only the head of the wild boy remained above the dirt, white froth dripping from his lips. Kurumu settled down next to him, cocking her head aside as she noted the long fangs.

"What did you do?"

Kurumu shrugged as she bent down with one finger extended.

"Wait! His arms are not that buried."

His arms slashed out of the dirt, slicing her torso in half. But another Kurumu settled in behind him, touching the sides of his heads.

They were in his room. Moka was torn up and battered from her fight with the wild Tsukune. She clutched her chest, staggering back against his dresser. She shook her head which was bleeding from a cut across her brow.

Tsukune was tucked in the corner of his bed with his knees drawn up to his chest. He was only in a pair of black boxers as he rocked himself slightly back and forth. A cursory glance about confirmed there was only one of him and Moka within the room. As for herself, she could not say.

"I thought you died."

"Nothing's real, Moka. You said so."

Moka nodded, swallowing thickly.

"I know that. But it still hurt to see."

Kurumu smiled back at herself. She crawled across his bed as she lingered out in the hall. She touched his knee, cocking her head.

"Tsukune, come out."

"I can't."

"Come with me."

"The monsters will get me."

Kurumu smiled.

"But this monster loves you."

Tsukune glanced up, his brown eyes trembling.

"I don't understand. You should be dead."

"We just have to take him outside."

Kurumu scooted aside as Moka approached the bed. The vampire held a hand out to Tsukune.

"Get your butt up and come with me, Aono. You have a lot of friends desperately wanting you to wake up as the same boy they care for."

Tsukune shook his head.

"I can't go outside. I'm not strong enough."

"You damn well should be. You're about one or two injections away from being a full-fledged vampire, so I don't want to hear about how you're weak."

Kurumu tilted her head.

"Is that true, Moka?"

Moka scowled.

"Sort of. A proper Rite has three to four donors so that his blood will become a unique mix. He shouldn't have this much given from one source. He'll end up more my brother than a lover at this rate."

Kurumu nodded, holding a hand to the young man.

"Do you want to go outside?"

Moka sighed, grabbing him by the ankle and yanking him out of his tucked position. With her other hand, she grabbed him by the shoulder and hauled him up on his feet. He staggered into her but she gruffly shoved him back to arm's length as she started briskly for the door to the hall.

"It will be fine, Tsukune. Come with us."

Kurumu smiled as they walked around her in the hall to start down the stairs. She waited for them at the genkan in front of the door. She waved at Moka as the vampire approached, shaking her head.

"I swear, you've gone mad."

Kurumu glanced at a tiny version of her standing on her shoulder with additional horns sprouting from her head. The other miniature had angelic wings and a halo held up by the same horns.

"Who's to say what's right or wrong. I touched him and it spread from there."

"Chaos."

"It's everywhere."

Moka shook her head, pushing open the door.

"I'm taking him with me. Don't fall too far behind."

Moka stepped out into a void and vanished.

They were back on the bed, a snarling Tsukune crushing his hands about Kurumu's throat. She stared down at him, curious what he wanted.

"Tsukune?"

He gasped and panted, squeezing harder to her neck snapped. He laughed as he crawled back off the bed, staggering back into her arms. He turned about, bewildered for a moment.

"What do you want?"

His hands slapped about her throat again as he lifted her off the floor with such force that he thrust her though the wall. She felt her body break as she peered at him through the open door to the hall.

"Are you afraid?"

He charged out of the room, screaming a guttural cry as he slammed his shoulder into her. He pushed her through the wall and they fell into another room that was empty. He lifted his hands up and smashed her face in repeatedly.

She opened the door.

"You're not really Tsukune. Give him to me."

He sprung to his feet but she grabbed him from behind. He turned but another image of her grabbed him from the front. She pressed in on him as the will of the blood struggled to break free.

But she was chaos and she was everywhere.

She sat across from him on a train, the verdant countryside speeding by at about the same pace as she had seen while riding the bus. She could hear the jostle of the rails as they were carried off to an unknown destination. She smiled.

"How did you find me?"

"I didn't. You found me."

He frowned at her. He absently touched his striped shirt. It was whole without a hint of the injury the witch had inflicted upon him. They were both as they had been at the start of the day.

"I don't understand."

"It's just a dream, Tsukune. A long dream that you need to wake up from."

"Yukari? Is she okay?"

"Everyone is fine. It's you we have all been worried about."

He touched his shoulder.

"What happened?"

"Moka gave you more blood to heal your wound. It doesn't seem to like me very much."

Tsukune smiled.

"I feel like I've been stuck on this train for days."

"Are you ready to get off?"

He chuckled, rubbing his neck.

"I think so, but my neck really hurts."

The train slowly came to a stop. A bell sounded and the sound of hydraulics hissed as the doors slid open. There was no station. Only an empty brilliance beyond.

"I feel light. Like I don't have a body."

"Oh, you have a body, silly boy."

He sighed.

"I was about to ask if I was dead."

Kurumu smiled and he did the same.

"I would die for you, Tsukune."

She grinned, gesturing for the open doors. Tsukune chuckled, getting up from the seat.

"I have a feeling you have done this before."

She nodded as he took a hesitant step away from her.

"This is a dream, right? You have visited me in my dreams."

She smiled.

"Yukari has tagged along on occasion."

He chuckled with a wide grin. He thrust a hand out to her.

"I knew it. When we get off this train, I'm going to ask what that girl has been doing in my head."

Kurumu smirked, taking his hand and getting up in the aisle.

"You will regret that."

Shaking his head they walked out.

Kurumu blinked as the room dimmed into existence about her. The afterimages behind her eyelids was bright and annoying. She felt her tail lowering as she groaned, lifting a hand to rub her eye.

"Thank God you're awake."

She shivered as a body pressed tightly about her. She blinked several more times as she tilted her head at the girl that held her. Tora. She groaned again as a sharp pain cut across her neck. She could feel fluids dribbling out her ear and down her side as she leaned her head back against the wall.

Sitting back on her haunches, Tora brushed fingers through Kurumu's short hair. Kurumu drifted a hand up and winced at the soreness of her throat. She could not take too deep of breaths. Any slight jostle of her neck caused pain. She felt the warm puddle forming against her left calf.

She glanced about, not wanting to turn her head. The door was closed and she spied the unconscious witch in the corner of her eye. Atop the futon between the two vacant ones rested Moka. A blanked had been drawn over the vampire as her pink tresses pooled about her pillow.

"Moka?"

Tora brought her hand over her mouth as her jade eyes watered. The girl nodded.

"She's fine. She came out of it about twenty minutes ago, completely disoriented. She was exhausted, Kurumu. It's almost midnight."

Kurumu grimaced from swallowing. It really hurt. So much attention on her throat in that world. She could not move her head without pain.

There was a knock on the door.

"She's awake now, right?"

Tora sighed, glancing over her shoulder.

"Just sleep in the other room, Ginei. She's in no condition to be moved."

There was a chuckle on the other side of the door.

"Open up, Tora. Kurumu has a visitor."

Tora sighed again. She grabbed one of the inn towels and draped it over Kurumu's shoulders. The sphinx shakily got up, smoothing down her robe as she turned to the door. She walked slowly, glancing back at Kurumu. Aware that Tora was waiting for her to cover herself better with the towel, Kurumu did what she could to encourage the girl to unlock and open the door.

"How is… Tsukune."

Tsukune smiled as he regarded the smaller sphinx. He absently touched the bandages of his shoulder with his left hand as his other rested on Tora's shoulder. With a glance at the chuckling Ginei, whom was dressed in the inn's robes, Tora gingerly touched Tsukune's chest.

"I'm awake, Tora. How is she?"

Tora sniffled, gesturing at Kurumu.

"She looks like someone has been trying to break her neck."

Tsukune stepped around Tora, getting down on his hands and knees as he crawled across the room to her. Naturally she glanced aside, though she smiled as she felt his hand touch her knees.

"Hey."

"Hey."

His hand came up to brush her cheek. She closed her eyes, breathing shallow.

"Kurumu?"

"Hmm?"

"I love you."