Yukari was absent from school today.
Kurumu found it difficult to focus on lectures despite frequently being called to participate. Yukari had never missed school before. She wanted to check in with Tsukune and Moka but Mrs. Itou's lecture had run longer today, preventing her from checking after second period and then holding class three hostage the entire third period break. She hoped Ms. Nekonome would end her lecture early.
Anxiety kept her alert despite the rough night of sleep. She had dragged Mizore out of bed after seven thirty, nagging the girl to hurry so that she could go to her suite and change into fresh clothing. She had thought about leaving the moody girl but figured it was better for Mizore to attend school.
She had first noticed her elevated temperature while showering. It was something she could not judge properly while in Mizore's company. Realizing there was almost no way of getting to school before the first hour bell sounded, she had elected to take the detour to the dining hall to put some breakfast in her stomach. The entire time she had simply assumed Yukari had gone to school without her.
It was nearly the end of first period by the time they had finally arrived at school. That first break she had been bombarded by questions from the girls over why Yukari was absent. With her head already swimming from the slight fever, she had trouble making sense of the situation and had almost broken into frustrated tears.
She heard the bell sound, noting several students had put away their things. As Ms. Nekonome exited out the front door, Kurumu pushed out of her seat onto her unsteady feet. She staggered against Abe's desk, flashing the inquisitive boy a slight smile as she turned her attention to Satsuki. The girl smirked at her, absently touching the white PSC armband pinned to the sleeve of her blouse.
"Are you sure you don't need the nurse?"
Kurumu took in a deep breath as Satsuki joined her. She grabbed the girl by her sleeves, leaning in to rest her head against Satsuki's shoulder for a moment.
"Just dizzy."
Satsuki pushed her back while keeping her hands firmly on Kurumu's sides.
"Yea, well… don't do that. Let's get Nerume."
Kurumu nodded. Her condition had been quite detrimental to their lab today, forcing Satsuki to do most of the work on her own. She felt terrible about it, but dropping one beaker was more than enough. The mix of fever, poor sleep and worry was doing her in. It felt like her heart could burst.
Satsuki grabbed her by the hand and tugged her along. The girl nodded at Deshi whom lingered next to her desk with her usual amused expression. The plum haired PSC girl twirled her staff to snap it under her arm like a baton. Her palm gripped over the end as she intentionally stepped in to bump her shoulder against Kurumu.
"Mr. Miki absent again."
Kurumu managed a weak nod, not concerned with the missing monstrel boy. Leaning against Satsuki, she tried to keep pace with the girl as they exited the classroom.
"Are you sure you don't need to see the nurse?"
"I'm fine."
Satsuki sighed, reluctantly taking Kurumu's hand.
"You're eating with us, Kurumu. With Yukari absent, I doubt your little lunch gathering with Tsukune is going to happen."
"What about Nerume?"
"She can eat with Shirayuki and the wolf girls. Maybe they can take Tsukune and Moka along."
"I can eat with them."
"I heard from Nerume that you get weird around Moka when you're feverish. So you're with us."
Kurumu sighed, recalling her awkward explanation before folding the papers. She wondered if that was part of the conversation during Nerume's PSC lunch yesterday, since that was really the only time Nerume could have mentioned it outside of her presence. Kurumu winced at the thought that Nerume might have told Tokori about other things.
"Please tell me she didn't say anything about Undines being good hosts for succubi babies."
Deshi giggled as Satsuki pointedly looked away.
"Kurumu!"
She whimpered as two large boys barred their entrance through the back door of class three. Tamaishi grinned as Ushio stepped in to place a large hand on her head, tousling her hair.
"You need to watch one of our games. We host a Sunday afternoon match against Ishou Academy."
"You stayed late to ask her that?"
Ushio grinned at Satsuki.
"Of course. The boys like having her around and now that it seems she has a gaggle of girls following her about, you bet we wouldn't mind seeing her whole crew in the stands."
Kurumu exhaled, taking note of the class. Tsukune was staring absently out the window and Nerume was chatting with Tobuyoku and Mizore. Tora was lingering behind her desk, her jade eyes catching Kurumu's. The girl smiled softly, walking over.
"I suppose we could. Tora's thing wraps up before noon and I can't think of anything else going on."
Satsuki made a sound of disgust which caused both boys to chuckle.
"I promise we won't disappoint you."
Ushio stepped around Deshi, heading out of the room a couple steps ahead of Tamaishi.
"Do we really have to go?"
Kurumu shrugged, smiling as Tora joined them.
"That dummy forgets I'm not allowed to attend sport events. If the other team hears about a succubus being in the stands, they could argue interference. You feel like attending a soccer game for me, Tora? You could take Tobuyoku and Hanetsume."
Tora frowned, shaking her head.
"That is so irrelevant right now. You wouldn't happen to know if Moka is staying home from school, Ms. Unari? She lives next to you."
"Moka isn't in school either?"
Kurumu drew her arms tighter about her torso as her insides twisted.
"But Kana wakes her up. Didn't you ask her?"
Tora sighed, shaking her head.
"I don't normally wait for Kana or Moka to show up for breakfast. They're both notoriously late."
Kurumu whimpered as she thought of situations where the trio of girls were nabbed by Outcasts.
"Where are they? Yukari's missing from school too."
Tora held her hands up.
"Wait. I didn't know about that."
Kurumu wrung her hands as her thoughts spiraled out of control. Her voice broke as she worried aloud.
"I should have left with Yukari. I should have left with Yukari."
"Calm down. Tsukune left with Moka and Yukari yesterday. Kana left with me. Just… hold on."
Tora quickly turned about and returned to her desk. As the sphinx tapped Tsukune's shoulder, Nerume waved at Tobuyoku whom allowed herself to be tugged down the aisle by an annoyed Hanetsume. The two Tengu girls headed for the front door.
"Think Komiya absent too."
"Oh, shut up."
Tsukune's neck was wrapped up more than usual. He was not looking at Tora as she addressed him. His face was troubled as he rubbed the back of his head. Unable to bear the suspense, Kurumu started over to hear the exchange.
"- tell you much. Moka was worried about my wound getting worse and was demanding to see it. I felt uncomfortable and took off ahead of them."
"Ginei told us all to stay together."
He shrugged.
"We were pretty close to my dorm. I was in my room within five minutes."
Tora sighed, leaning back and managing a smile as she noticed Kurumu.
"It might be worth checking their rooms."
"I could do that."
Tora held a hand up at Tsukune, shaking her head.
"No. Not alone. Could you go with him, Ms. Unari?"
Satsuki snorted.
"Why?"
"I can go with him."
Kurumu smiled softly as Nerume placed her small hand on his desk.
"I'm also worried about Moka."
Tora paused, eventually nodding.
"She can get you in the lobby and check on Moka for you. I don't know how you would go about checking on Yukari other than knocking on her door and hoping she answers."
"Yukari is missing too?"
Kurumu nodded at the small kirin.
"Tsukune. Has your wound gotten any better?"
His hand absently drifted to his chest.
"No. I know when Saizou confronted us, I got slashed up and lost consciousness. Those wounds haven't healed either."
Satsuki frowned.
"Are you that slow at healing?"
Tora sighed.
"I thought Ginei found you a healer."
"It's not bleeding. But the gash has blackened, much like the marks on my neck."
Mizore stepped up next to Nerume, her fingers finding the end of the white stick as they frequently did.
"Is something wrong with his body?"
"Has anyone from the faculty talked to you about it?"
Tsukune frowned.
"Why would anyone do that?"
"Because Ms. Sasayaki said she would pass word about your condition to the Headmaster."
Tora flinched.
"Kurumu. This is not the place to talk about this."
Kurumu gestured about the group.
"They all know he's not a vampire, Tora. Tsukune's body is having a bad reaction to Moka's blood. The Headmaster is the only one that we can turn to. He's the one that fixed it the last time."
There was silence as the girls regarded each other, Tora bowing her head. Mizore thrust her hands in her pockets as she cocked her head back.
"He feels like my brothers. A human."
Deshi cackled, shaking her head.
"So obvious. Known long time."
Tora rolled her eyes.
"The whole PSC has 'known' since Kuyo leveled his accusations against Tsukune. It was not obvious."
Deshi waved her hand dismissively as the other girls remained quiet. Kurumu managed a smile at Nerume, whom regarded Tsukune with apprehension.
"Are you okay, Nerume?"
The girl looked at her and then at the floor.
"I'm scared. What do we do?"
"You are going to go with him to the dorms to check on Moka. Will you join them, Ms. Unari?"
"I'll go."
Kurumu smiled at Mizore.
"Thank you."
"I have to follow from afar. They don't want me in the dorms."
"I don't like this."
Satsuki scratched the back of her sienna locks with her ears standing out.
"What if something is happening with those damn Outcasts?"
Deshi laughed.
"Say they need get fuck over it, right?"
"No. I'm not joking. What are we supposed to do? Fuck. You seriously think Nerume, Shirayuki and me tagging along will change anything?"
Deshi shrugged.
"May hesitate. You PSC."
Satsuki scowled, gesturing at Tsukune.
"Why the fuck are you here? Seriously. What can he do if a fight breaks out?"
"Satsuki."
Tsukune sighed.
"I'm sorry."
Satsuki thrust a finger at him.
"Don't apologize."
"I never said he was a strong monster. You know this."
"And I thought we were playing it down. Whose idea was it to say he beat up Kuyo?"
Kurumu sighed though it was Tora that answered.
"A teacher confronted us, threatening to reveal the truth and Ginei came up with that on the spot. It felt reasonable at the time to back the story as we had no idea how Ms. Yoshino would react."
Satsuki scowled, her ears twitching. She gestured at Deshi.
"Give me the jacket."
Deshi grinned.
"Might be tight fit."
"Not my fault you're flat chested."
Satsuki unbuttoned her green jacket and pulled her arms out of the sleeves. Deshi set her staff down, the pole balanced perfectly on its end as she let it go. She pushed the toggles out of the loops of her black PSC uniform before unzipping it down the center.
"Thank you, Satsuki."
"I haven't done anything yet. And hopefully I don't have to."
Deshi had nothing on beneath her jacket, but her back was turned to Tsukune. Naturally he turned his gaze away but Kurumu was surprised at the torn up marks down the middle of her back. While scars were not uncommon among monsters, this looked like a wild animal had mauled her back.
Satsuki sighed, swapping jackets with the girl.
"I'm not giving you the blouse. You'll have to make due."
"Is fine."
Satsuki sighed again as she struggled to get the zipper up the center. She breathed in squeezing the fabric together to get it up over the swell of her bosom.
"I want to talk with Ms. Meirowasa and confirm Kana made it to school safely. They share the same gym hour. If you feel uncomfortable about this, Ms. Unari, you can stop by the lounge on the way out and ask if a teacher will go with you."
"I feel like that would make things worse."
Kurumu gestured at the door.
"Why don't I go with them? The Outcasts are guys. I could handle this."
"Says the girl that's been dizzy all day."
Tora stepped in, pressing the back of her hand against Kurumu's cheek before she could react.
"Is it time already?"
"I'm fine."
Tora shook her head.
"You're coming with us, Kurumu."
"I feel no different than when I helped Yukari with the crazy woman."
"I heard you did very little in that matter."
Kurumu supposed that was true.
"This is different, Tora. I just look at these boys and have them let us go."
"I seem to recall things working differently with Mr. Komiya."
Kurumu scowled.
"That was back when I was limiting my charm."
Tsukune sighed heavily.
"You can stay here, Kurumu. I'm sure I have enough escorts for a trip to the dorms."
She turned to him as he stepped in close.
"But Tsukune."
He patted her head, smiling.
"I'm already causing so much trouble for everyone. I'd go alone if you'd let me."
Satsuki snorted.
"That's suicidal. Now I know why Kurumu is always sick with worry over you."
Nerume tugged on Tsukune's sleeve, nodding at the door.
"Shall we go then? I want to pick up a sandwich in the school store on the way out."
Satsuki chuckled.
"Yea. We all probably should. What about you, ice princess?"
"I'm fine."
Satsuki shook her head, turning about and starting for the door. Tsukune followed closely behind with Nerume holding his sleeve.
"This jacket needs better access to my pockets. Can we have pockets added to the jacket itself?"
"That would be cool."
They ducked out into the hall before Mizore started slowly for the door.
"If anything happens, Mizore, you have to let us know."
Mizore paused, glancing over her shoulder.
"I'll stop anyone that tries to harm Tsukune."
"That is admirable, Ms. Shirayuki, but can you do so without causing Tsukune harm? I know control of your powers has been an issue."
Mizore regarded Tora before glancing to Kurumu.
"I won't harm him."
Kurumu managed a smile, nodding at the girl. Mizore returned the smile before heading out. Kurumu let out a deep sigh as she turned her attention to the two girls remaining in the room.
"Fabric not as nice on skin. Very sad."
Tora shook her head, starting for the door prompting Kurumu to follow. Deshi snatched up her staff, flipping it up to its usual place behind her head. The white PSC armband remained pinned to the jacket.
"I'm surprised at your audacity. Not only was there a man in the room, but anybody could have walked by the open door."
"Think Aono seen better."
They walked along the balcony towards the stairs after the door to class five.
"While I agree that Kurumu is pretty, that doesn't mean Tsukune would have no reaction."
"What about other boys?"
"Why care what they see?"
"You can't truly believe that."
Deshi shrugged.
"Body not real. It no matter."
Kurumu smirked at the girl, slapping a hand on the girl's shoulder.
"Feels real enough to me."
Deshi grinned, her canary yellow eyes nearly closed.
"Perhaps it trick."
Kurumu shook her head, never sure what to expect from this girl. They said nothing as they walked the remaining distance to the stairs, briskly descending in Tora's wake. There was so many students lined up on the right side of the hallway, chatting and shambling forward as the line moved at a steady crawl. It was always noisy and difficult to pick out any conversation from the rest. Despite this, she was hesitant to say anything too revealing.
"Do we have any idea who is involved in the Outcasts?"
Deshi shrugged and Tora probably had not heard. Sighing, Kurumu quickened her step to be next to Tora, aware that Deshi did the same.
"Should we try to get Ginei involved?"
"How would we do that?"
"I don't know. Do you know where he eats?"
"I don't. I've asked a couple times but tired of his evasive answers."
Kurumu chuckled, having asked him once before. He had said something about eating with a bunch of different groups to keep in touch with the latest gossip.
"I know he has gym sixth period and home ec seventh. Maybe I could leave early or stay late."
"If you want to, I don't care."
"I just feel like he might have more information to work with than we have."
"Could you stop worrying me? I'm trying to remain calm about the situation."
"I'm sorry. I just feel like we need to do something."
"Obviously. Let's eat lunch with Ms. Meirowasa and maybe Mr. Koike will have information. This really is not the time to strip down and fly around aimlessly."
Deshi laughed as Kurumu blushed. She thought to protest, but realized it would not change anything. Sighing, she walked the remainder of the hall in silence till they reached the serving area. Well aware with the path, she followed the girls through the door into the kitchen.
Her thoughts wandered as she silently tagged along. If the Outcasts were responsible, that must have meant they had acted without bothering to file a complaint. When Ginei had canceled the club meeting last night, he had been unaware of any report being made to the faculty or the council. Why had they not reported if they had evidence? Saizou and Miki remained absent so something must have happened.
She took the tray thrust at her, following the two girls back out into the cafeteria. It was a short walk to the door on the left that opened into the large gym. She absently noted her tray was overladen as usual.
"You not meet Lord Kitajima."
"We don't address them as Lords."
Despite all her worries, Kurumu smiled.
"I understand he butt heads with Ginei often."
"He's a serious character. I can see how Ginei would enjoy troubling him."
"Like he troubles you?"
Tora smirked, shaking her head. After crossing the large gym, they entered the stage storage room on the left. Kurumu could not recall there ever being a time seeing more guys than girls in this room. Tokori sat alone next to Umizake while Koike and another young man sat across from them. The young man was dressed in the PSC jacket all the men wore, Kurumu recalling he had once been part of the club. She doubted Kuyo would have allowed him to keep it after resigning, but she could see Lady Hineri keeping the jacket of former members in club storage.
Presumably Kitajima, this young man had a thin, fine moustache of the same faded black hue of his hair which was drawn back in a top knot. The sharp recess of his widow's peak gave him the impression of an older man in his late thirties, though his smooth face betrayed no wear from time. Noting their arrival, the young man promptly got to his feet, gripping the hem of his jacket.
Glancing over his shoulder, Koike quickly got to his feet before Deshi could take a seat beside Tokori. The tawny haired young man placed a hand over his heart as he grinned toothily upon Kurumu.
"To what do we owe the pleasure of the company of Ms. Kurono?"
"We may have an issue with the Outcasts. I brought Ms. Kurono along to keep her out of trouble."
Kitajima snorted, letting his hand drift to the hilt of a bokken which hung from a loop of his slacks.
"Common ruffians. This would not be the first time they claimed someone was murdered without bothering to produce a body."
Koike grimaced, rubbing the back of his head.
"True, but Kuyo held them in check. We can't entirely dismiss the idea of them taking matters into their own hands."
"I take it you have been discussing their activity?"
"It's not their activity that troubles me. Nibuoto from class eight is a known Outcast. I saw him in gym, but Hinagiku Hideo was absent. Everyone knows he's a local with Fusamina's group."
Tokori hugged her arms about her chest as she glanced aside.
"I already said Hinagiku was in no condition to come to school today. He talked to me for the first time in years last night about something big going on that he wanted no part of. He gave me a list of names."
"Outcasts?"
Tokori shook her head.
"Mostly members of his skating club. There's not a single recognized outcast on the list."
"Was Saizou on the list?"
"No. But Tsuji, Yoshikawa and Ikarashi from class six were all on the list and none of them were in class today. I remember Moroha telling me about how all these guys from his club were in class six with Ms. Sawayaka, so I asked her about in gym and she confirmed they were all absent."
"It's a pity you did not bring this list with you. I would have liked to cross reference it with attendance to see if any of those names made it to school today."
"I didn't know what to make of the names. Other than Fusamina's name, those three were the only others that stood out because of what Moroha told me. His name isn't even on the list, so I can't say whom the other five are."
"Why didn't you ask him what the list was about?"
Tokori sighed at Kurumu.
"It was after midnight. He was banging on the door and nearly woke everyone up in the household. I'm sure if Mako had gotten to the door first, he would have given her the list. He was desperate, saying the vampires were going to kill everyone and that we needed to leave Mononoke. After calming him down with some tea, Mako walked him home."
Kurumu frowned, regarding the two standing young men.
"What do you think is going on?"
Koike shrugged.
"Sounds like he was delusional."
"Ms. Akashiya is missing along with Ms. Sendou."
Koike frowned at Tora.
"That's… troubling."
He stroked his chin as he stared off.
"We need to call a meeting tonight. Mr. Hinagiku may have come to Ms. Meirowasa with the hope of enlisting our aid."
"Agreed. We should check on Mr. Hinagiku afterwards. I trust the young lady knows where he resides."
Kurumu clutched her tray, wanting to set it down.
"Shouldn't we do this now?"
Koike chuckled, gesturing at Tokori.
"If Ms. Meirowasa wishes, I can accompany her to Mr. Hinagiku's residence after the meal."
Kitajima snorted.
"Such exemplary members of the student body, cutting class."
Koike grinned, pressing his hand to his heart.
"A beautiful woman is asking me to do something. I could hardly call myself a man if I allow paltry rules to stand in the way of justice."
"I'll go. I'm starting to worry that Hinagiku might be in trouble."
"How about joining us on this, kid?"
Koike grinned, regarding Deshi, whom was quietly depleting her portions.
"And what did you do with your jacket? I would swear I saw you wearing it at breakfast."
"Ms. Unari wanted try on."
"Is that so? Maybe I should make this an official outing. Get our Mr. Unmotivated to do something."
"I am doing things."
Koike smirked at Umizake.
"PSC things. Not normal everyday life things."
Umizake pushed aside his finished tray, regarding his senior.
"I was asked by a classmate to investigate the disappearances of some of the residents of our floor."
Kurumu had forgotten about that.
"Tsukune asked for your help?"
"It was Mr. Kinusawa's request. I am borrowing some equipment from the film club to watch over the rooms of the boys most likely in peril."
"This is the first I'm hearing about this."
"I saw no reason to trouble the club with a matter that only came up yesterday. So I must decline your invitation as I have promised my after school time to another task."
Koike chuckled, shaking his head.
"Suit yourself. So where is my little kitten? I'd like to at least take her along."
Kurumu sighed, finally deciding to take a seat. Setting her tray aside, she grabbed her soup cup and peeled back the lid, blowing across the steamy top.
"Ms. Unari is accompanying Mr. Aono to the dorms to check on Ms. Akashiya. I doubt they will return before the start of fifth period as they were also going to stop by Ms. Sendou's suite. Hoping to avoid trouble, Ms. Unari asked to wear Deshi's PSC jacket."
Koike nodded as Tora knelt down beside Kurumu to finally attend to her meal. He gestured at Tokori.
"Let's head out now."
Tokori paused a moment, regarding her meal. Nodding, she wiped her hands off on her jacket before getting up on her feet.
"We'll swing by the attendance office first and get a list of the names of absentees. Also let them know that we might not be coming back, while adding Ms. Unari's name to that."
Kurumu smiled.
"Could you add Tsukune, Nerume and Mizore to that?"
Koike chuckled as he turned away from her to gingerly place a hand on Tokori's shoulder. He started for the door, shaking his head.
"Sorry, but I can't get excused absences for people not in our club."
Kitajima snorted as the two slipped out the door, closing it behind them.
"Not that our school ever punishes anyone for such irresponsible delinquency. If the school had stricter policies, I'm sure academic performance would increase."
Kurumu sipped from her soup cup with a slight smile. She glanced at Tora.
"I see what you meant about him."
Tora smirked, electing to eat over responding.
She could not take this any longer. She regarded the empty station sixteen, feeling helpless. After ten minutes of waiting, Ms. Hitori had instructed Taijin to join them since Kurumu had already vouched for Tokori's absence and it seemed like Mizore was not coming back. With nobody from class three to confirm if Mizore had returned to school grounds, Kurumu could only worry.
Nobody would care if she ducked out of home ec. There was no assignment today. Usually this would be a good day to talk nonsense with Asuka but the only things on her mind were not casual conversation.
"I can't."
She stalked off from her station, intent on the door. The girl most likely to follow was Asuka, and the blond had her hands full with Sakamori. She heard Asuka's concerned protest, but Kurumu was out in the hall before anyone could think to alert the teacher.
Kurumu had no idea what she planned to do, but standing around in home ec felt so damn pointless. She needed to talk with Tora. She was in computer class right now and would know if Tsukune and Nerume had returned. If they were gone, the only course of action left was to drag Ginei into this. He should be in gym right now.
She kicked her feet up in a steady trot, passing by the empty biology room on her right and quickly reaching the end of the hall. Turning right, she started down the hall that flanked the cafeteria and had the rows of glass doors out to the courtyard on her right.
They had never confirmed if Kana had made it to school. Kurumu did not know what class that girl had this period to check on her. She could not remember which elective Kana had taken. She wanted to say it was art, but it could have been computer. Her stomach twisted as she worried over not even knowing where to begin looking for the blond.
She passed by the bathrooms after the library on her left. She reached the senior hall but continued on to the flight of stairs that would take her up to the elective wing. She took the steps two at a time.
Had anyone confirmed that Ginei was in school? Her heart sunk as she allowed that possibility to enter her musings. It was not like they had regular contact with anyone from his homeroom. She should have asked Kitajima about him. Didn't they have gym together? She thought someone had mentioned that. Then again, that meant he was in gym now and would not have known the answer anyways.
She knew nothing. Nobody was safe. Everyone was going to die.
She jogged by the first computer lab, knowing it was for the second year computer curriculum. She reached the first door of the lab they used on the weekends. She tugged open the door, ignoring the man in the white dress shirt and gray slacks standing at the main center station in the front of the class. She scanned the faces, noting Deshi was with Senyou from their class. That charcoal haired guy was also Yukari's science lab partner. She would not have expected that.
"May I help you, young lady?"
She glanced at Mr. Karatsuki. She had seen him a couple times, but never officially met. She wanted him to be quiet, so he nodded without another word.
"Tora? I need you."
Tora stood up from behind her workstation which was all the way in the back corner away from the door. That was also unexpected. For some reason she had thought Tora would sit in one of the front corners. She honestly could not recall the names of any of the students that sat in the front stations.
She recognized several of them. She knew the obsidian haired, short girl with the handlebar side tails was the class rep from class four. She always kept to herself but she was presently seated with a couple girls shorter than her, all wearing glasses. Kurumu vaguely remembered all three had been from her floor, but she had only seen them a couple times back when she showered later.
As Kurumu took note that Utsumi was with Arashimideru with their third being one of the lizard boys that had troubled Yukari, Tora grabbed her by the shoulder and steered her out of the room.
"What are you doing?"
"I need you."
"Did you charm Mr. Karatsuki?"
Kurumu glanced back in the class, feeling distant.
"Have you seen Tsukune?"
Tora sighed, closing the door so they could have privacy in the hall.
"No. Tsukune did not return for fifth period and neither did Ms. Genzouyaki or Ms. Shirayuki."
Kurumu wrung her hands, turning about and starting down the hall.
"We have to find Ginei. Satsuki hasn't returned either. We have to find Ginei."
"You have to calm down, Kurumu."
Kurumu shook her head as she walked faster. She could hear Tora's footsteps.
"They could all be in the art building right now."
"Mizore wasn't in home ec. Yukari wasn't here. Nobody is safe."
Tora grabbed her by the shoulder as they reached the stairs.
"Kurumu. We should get a teacher."
Kurumu paused, regarding Tora. She could not think of any teachers that could help in this situation. Not a single one stood out as someone to turn to in case of emergency.
"We find Ginei first."
Tora's eyes went vacant and she nodded.
Grabbing the sphinx by her hand, Kurumu tugged the docile girl along as she descended the steps. While a nagging thought demanded her to address her influence on others, right now she felt it useful. She would find Ginei and convince him to do something. And she would not be left behind.
They had made it to the bathrooms when Tora tugged hard on her hand.
"Kurumu, wait. We don't know where to look."
Kurumu stopped to glance over her shoulder. Tora was wisely looking aside. It was exactly like this weekend when they realized Kurumu had crossed over her limits.
"I want to help, but don't make me."
"We have to find Ginei."
"Okay. We can start there. Maybe one of the gym teachers would be willing to help."
The only gym teachers Kurumu had spoken with were Kotsubo and Enkan, the basketball coach. She knew Mr. Hirata had taken over Kotsubo's class, but had only talked with him that one time during the soccer article.
Kurumu squeezed Tora's hand, continuing her march down the hall. It was easier with Tora naturally taking steps. They passed by the library again till the wall ended and the open cafeteria began. Turning right, Kurumu strode purposefully down the aisle between the tables that stretched most the length of the open room.
For all the complaints about the cafeteria being cramped and crowded, it looked much bigger when it was vacant like this. While it was not as wide as the practice gym or the library, it was the combined depth of the library and the practice gym. If it were not for the serving line wall, the cafeteria was arguably bigger than the practice gym. Keeping on the right side of the cafeteria, Kurumu walked by the first of two doors that opened into the practice gym, intent on the far door which flanked the other practice gym door.
"Ginei has the shorter Miwa as his gym instructor."
"What exactly do you plan to do?"
"We have to find Ginei."
"Yes, but after that."
"I'll make them talk."
"What?"
With so many people, Kurumu felt somebody had to know something. She would make them all talk. She would find the truth because nobody could lie to her.
This far door was normally closed. Kurumu let go of Tora's hand, drawing it open. This door was nearly center of the south side of the large gym. Leaving it open, Kurumu stalked across the empty auditorium towards the passage on the side of the stage that would take her to the girls' lockers.
"Are you planning to charm every boy in gym?"
"Yes."
"That's against the rules."
"You barred the entrance of every person from the school."
"I had to argue that I had student council permission. I realize you might not be aware of this, but I was in trouble for displaying such a show of power. If it were not for the defense from Ms. Nekonome and Mr. Kaneshiro, I could have been suspended. What will your excuse be?"
Kurumu shrugged. Getting suspended felt like a small price to pay for assuring the safety of her friends. Doubting Tora wanted to hear that, Kurumu silently crossed the auditorium. She heard Tora sigh as she reached the stage and started down the small passage.
"What if nobody out there knows anything?"
While Kurumu realized that was possible, this was one of three gym periods. This was a third of the boys on campus. If she had no answers, she could wait for the seventh period gym class to show up and do it again. Short of Midou and Fusamina both being in fourth period gym, she knew she would find out what was going on.
She opened the door to the lockers and walked by the rows of lockers for the other girls. She should switch to her gym shoes simply because they were easier to run in. Kurumu drifted over to her locker in the last row, grabbing her padlock and spinning the dial. Tora chuckled.
"Are we changing for gym?"
"Changing shoes. Tora. Someone will know something. If not this hour, then the next. Koike would have said something if Midou was absent, so Midou must be in one of these gym periods."
Tora nodded, wandering off.
"I see your point. I'll get my shoes."
Kurumu returned her attention to her lock, quickly dialing the combination to get it free. Leaving the lock inside the compartment, she quickly swapped her slippers with the shoes. After tying the laces, she put the lock back in its place to secure her things. She wandered back to the door, waiting for Tora.
The moment Tora stepped out into the aisle, Kurumu opened the exterior door. It was warm and there was a slight breeze. She could hear the shouts of the boys out on the track field. The gym instructors had divided the field up into thirds and had been playing soccer. She understood they had started competing after midterms like the girls' impromptu softball teams had been. She knew her combined team with class four had won only one game last week against one of the second year teams on Friday. It was a game to determine last place, since neither team had a win.
Walking about the bleachers with Tora on her heels, Kurumu saw that there was a commotion going on in the middle field. A bunch of boys were hovered about, clearly not playing soccer. The gym instructors stood out from the boys since they were wearing white caps and had whistles about their necks. One of the men near the scene was tall and had sky blue locks that were shaven short and neat to a point at the nape of his neck. The other had chocolate, feathered locks.
As she hurried across the lanes of the track, she recognized the burly, black haired Sabaku among the crowd. Kitajima was also among those gathered and he was next to this ridiculously tall guy that stood a head over the rest of the group.
"There's Ginei!"
Kurumu found him at the same moment Tora declared it. Their club president was in the center of the mess, holding one hand out to the group as the other gingerly touched the shoulder of the girl that presumably caused the disturbance.
It was Mizore.
Several boys turned to regard them, curious about the voice. Kurumu caught their gazes, wanting them to back away and give Ginei space. Most complied with her silent request, including the taller instructor. Ginei was gingerly touching Mizore's shoulders.
"Calm down, princess. You don't want more crazy rumors about you."
"We don't have time! They're killing him!"
Kurumu's heart tightened at Mizore's words. She closed the last of the distance, every boy that caught her glance moving aside without protest. Ginei even hesitated, tearing his gaze aside.
"What is going on here, Kurumu?"
"I was going to ask you."
"There's no time for this!"
The instructor with the feathered hair placed a hand on Mizore's shoulder
"You need to return to your class, young lady."
"I'm not here!"
Mizore turned and yanked on her wrist. Her arm cracked and snapped like a twig at the elbow. She brandished the severed arm at the surprised instructor.
"I'm watching them. I need help!"
The instructor nodded, his golden eyes wide.
"Yes. I'm sure if we take you to the nurse, we can fix that."
Kurumu glared at the instructor, wanting him to keep silent.
"This is a doll, Ginei. A copy Mizore made."
"Ms. Shirayuki can do that?"
Kurumu sighed, supposing the details of Mizore's attack on Moka had not been fully explained.
"Yes. Mizore. Where are the others?"
The broken doll turned to regard Kurumu, cocking its head.
"They hurt Unari. Made her bleed."
Kurumu touched her chest, fighting to stay calm.
"Is she okay?"
"I left one with her. Stopped the blood, but she won't wake up. I had to follow them. I'm so sorry."
"Mizore?"
The doll's face cracked in anguish.
"They broke Nerume. She's not moving. There's too many of them. I don't know what to do."
Ginei took a deep breath.
"Can you tell me where they are?"
"An abandoned building past the pool. I can find myself."
Kitajima glanced at Sabaku.
"Could be the old shop building."
Sabaku gestured at a portly boy.
"Mr. Okuhensu. Would the old shop building be a place for Midou to hang out?"
The boy huffed, his dark locks obscuring his eyes.
"I'm not an Outcast, Mr. Sabaku. You should ask Mr. Haikan about that."
Kaneshiro stepped out of the crowd, gesturing at Sabaku.
"I suggest everyone remaining calm before throwing accusations about. The young lady is clearly distressed and in need of medical attention."
Kurumu sighed.
"It's a doll, Mr. President. The real Mizore is at the location. She will take us there."
"And I feel that is a bad idea, Ms. Kurono. Tensions between your club and the Outcasts are high. I would suggest not aggravating the situation."
She stared at him angrily.
"You will approve of us leaving to rescue our friends. Because you know this is not a distressed girl making up bullshit for attention."
Kurumu was grabbed roughly by the shoulder as a palm wrapped about her face. She squealed against the sweaty skin as she was hauled from her feet.
"Sabaku, stop!"
"She's charming the student council president. I can't let that slide."
She closed her eyes and relaxed her body. Her heart was beating madly as she held on his arm to keep her balance. With a thought she shifted her weight to her hands, easing the pressure off her head.
"Let her go, Mr. Sabaku."
"I am your senior and you will follow my orders. Now, Kitajima, go get Mr. Haikan."
"You know something's up, Sabaku. That's Midou's class and he's missing. Now let go of my first year."
"Not a chance, Morioka. She's trying to go vigilante here and I can't have that."
"Don't bother, Kitajima. If you just need any outcast, Arukage from Miyamoto's class will do. Bring them both for me."
"You are part of the PSC, Kitajima. You don't take orders from the newspaper club."
"You take orders from me. Set Ms. Kurono down."
"I can't do that. You've been compromised."
Kurumu opened her eyes. She felt the young man holding her tense up. But she wanted down. She felt her feet touch the ground and his hand let go of her face.
"It seems you changed your mind."
Kurumu glanced at Kaneshiro, wondering why he was so popular. His impulse had been to do nothing. Ignoring him, she walked over to Mizore's puppet.
"Take me to Tsukune."
"Hold on, Ms. Kurono. If you would, Mr. Kitajima, I agree that Mr. Arukage is acceptable to answer any questions Mr. Sabaku might have."
Kurumu did not care about questions. Mizore could guide her to where Tsukune and the others were. That was all that mattered.
"Show me, Mizore."
The doll glanced about. It turned and took two steps before it shattered into pieces, causing Kurumu's heart to drop.
"Mr. Sabaku."
She turned about, noting Sabaku's head had flattened into a triangular, reptilian maw much like the lizard boys that had attacked Yukari. Sabaku's maw was lined with rows of jagged fangs and his eyes had pulled back into triangular pockets. It was the head of a crocodile.
"She made me put her down. I'm not about to let her run off."
"And you're answer is to destroy the guide?"
Sabaku snorted, crossing his arms about his chest.
"There are only so many abandoned buildings near campus. We can find this place."
Kaneshiro sighed, gesturing to Kitajima.
"Find a known Outcast and bring them here before things get further out of control."
Kitajima nodded, jogging off to the section of the field closest to the tennis courts.
They were all wasting her time.
"Ginei. Can you carry me to this place?"
Ginei chuckled softly.
"I would love to, but there are several possible locations other than the old shop building."
"It's a full moon. How much time would it take?"
"You are not going anywhere. It is against school rules to flaunt your powers."
Kurumu turned her eyes lazily upon Kaneshiro, well aware that Sabaku was the one making the protest.
"Then go report me to the Headmaster, Sabaku. Right now."
Despite the lack of eye contact, the stout young man stormed off to Kaneshiro's surprise.
"Ms. Kurono?"
"I have to do this, President. If you can't understand, I must assume you have nobody you care about."
Kaneshiro stiffened, glancing at the retreating figure of Sabaku.
"We have rules we must work within."
"Do you want to come with, Tora?"
"I advise against this, Ms. Nazohashi. As a member of the PSC, you should not act without authorization from a superior. We did not dethrone Kuyo to revive this method of handling things."
Kurumu glared at Kaneshiro.
"You did nothing. The people that took care of him are now in trouble, and you are abandoning them like a bunch of cowards."
Ginei chuckled, slapping a hand down on her shoulder.
"Fine. I'll carry both of you. Who wants piggyback and who wants to be in my arms?"
Kaneshiro frowned.
"Mr. Morioka, this is a serious matter."
"Indeed it is. I think I prefer Kurumu's tits pressed on my back and Tora's ass in my arms."
Tora huffed, rolling her eyes.
"I'm not going with you if that's your attitude."
"Nor should you, Ms. Nazohashi. When we have a better grasp of the situation, I will handle this matter with the help of the PSC and the faculty."
Tora sighed, shaking her head as she walked over to Ginei.
"As a member of the PSC, I will accompany them with the hope to keep the situation civil."
Kurumu climbed up on Ginei's back, wrapping her arms about his neck. Letting her weight focus on her wrists, she made her burden disappear.
"Have you lost weight?"
"I moved it."
"Well put some back on your chest because I can't feel them."
Tora sighed, placing an arm around his head as she kicked up into his arms.
"Could you not be so vulgar?"
"I'm worried she'll fall off."
"Sure you are."
Kaneshiro sighed, shaking his head.
"Please reconsider your-"
Their destination did not turn out to be the old shop building. At each stop, Ginei would set them both down and take a quick look about the premises. After confirming the location was still abandoned, they loaded back up and darted off to the next potential hideout.
It was surprising how many abandoned buildings were strewn about the forest. Sticking to the road or the main trail to Mononoke, they would never find most of these structures. Ginei joked about the forest having a life of its own, taking these forgotten buildings and pulling them deeper into the woods to devour them. Seeing how some did not even have hints of an abandoned trail, Kurumu almost believed his nonsense.
"There she is."
Ginei came to a sudden stop among the trees that surrounded another derelict structure. He set Tora down and tapped on Kurumu's wrists. This being the cue before, Kurumu released her hold about his neck to land on her feet behind him. She looked through the foliage at the warehouse before them. It had a domed steel structure that was rusted over. Many roof panels were missing, pushed in by the encroaching forest. The entire front had fallen out and was strewn about the surrounding brush.
Ginei motioned for them to keep quiet as he zipped off in a silent blur. She spied Mizore lurking next to the building, peering through a gap in the side wall. They were too far away to hear any sounds, though there was a constant, steady rustle. It was familiar, though Kurumu could not place it.
The blur that was Ginei streaked by Mizore and she vanished with him. In a matter of seconds, Ginei was back with them, thrusting a disoriented snow girl at them while rapidly shaking his hands.
"Damn, she's cold."
Mizore quickly realized their company and her face twisted in grief, the temperature plummeting.
"It's too late. It's too late."
"What do you mean?"
"It's too late."
Kurumu grabbed the girl by her shoulders, cutting back her cry from the chill that stabbed her fingers. Gritting her teeth she forced Mizore to look at her.
"Stop! Answer me!"
"Quiet, Kurumu. I heard several voices in there. It sounded like a brawl."
Mizore's gaze dulled as the air regained its normal warmth. Crystals dropped from her cheeks to the ground as she breathed softly.
"Where's Tsukune."
"He's gone mad. He's killing them all."
That made no sense.
"What about Yukari?"
Mizore's sapphire eyes stared blankly.
"I couldn't see her."
"Moka?"
Mizore's expression tensed.
"It's her fault. He's not Tsukune anymore."
Kurumu shook Mizore by the shoulders.
"Moka is okay, right? She's not hurt."
"I… maybe. She's still moving."
Kurumu's heart twisted.
"And Nerume?"
Mizore covered her mouth, bowing her head.
"Where is she? Is she inside?"
Mizore withdrew her hand, letting out a ragged breath.
"She pushed Tsukune aside and got hurt. They got angry at her for interfering. Stomped on her till she stopped moving. I couldn't go in there. I was too scared."
"We should put up a barrier."
Tora grimaced.
"I don't have the materials."
"Then make some."
Tora glanced aside, touching her cheek.
"Easier said than done."
Ginei smirked.
"I've already seen everything so I'm not going to fuss over you losing your britches here. Right now we need someone that can heal and an indestructible healer is even better. Midou is no pushover and it's raining buckets in there. I doubt even unsealed Moka could handle him with such a handicap."
"I'll go in ahead of you with Mizore."
Ginei held a hand up.
"Leave the heroics to me. I can get in and out of there before they know what is going on. We only stick around to fight if we have to."
"I will make them stop."
"You don't understand. Tsukune is killing them."
They all paused regarding Mizore with disbelief.
"That's not possible."
Mizore hugged herself, regarding the ground.
"Moka gave him more blood. He took down their leader and started tearing apart their ranks."
Ginei nodded slowly. He pointed at Tora.
"I'm going to carry you about this building and you're going to set up a barrier. Once that's up, we will go in and save whomever we can."
Kurumu stared at the building. She thought about the time she had dived in his mind and the ferocity of the creature that had torn her apart so many times. The monster inside him had broken free. She knew she had to reach inside him and pull his sanity out once again.
"I have to save him."
She walked towards the open front. Her arm was seized up and she was yanked back.
"Stop it. We need a plan."
She touched his hand and his grip relaxed.
"I'm going."
She pulled free, aware that Mizore started to follow. A blushing Tora was unzipping her slacks, pushing them down around her hips as Ginei stared blankly at his hand. They could not stop her.
"What are you going to do, Kurumu?"
As they came closer, the rustling sound intensified. It sounded like rain despite there not being a cloud in the sky. She could smell the moisture as they approached, the air becoming thicker with each step.
"Which Moka is in there?"
"While they were distracted with Nerume, Tsukune removed her rosary. Moka fought back but they turned on the water and… Tsukune got hurt."
The interior of the building was difficult to see from outside. It was much dimmer and there was a cloud of dust blurring everything. Kurumu walked slowly inside, smelling the thickness of blood in the air. Something was squishing repeatedly, like shoving your foot in a puddle of mud. She turned her head in the direction of the sound, figures slowly taking shape as her eyes adjusted to the darkness.
Tsukune was straddled over a young man, pummeling his head in. There was nothing left that resembled a face. It was just blood, gristle and fragments of bone. Kurumu held a hand over her mouth, unsure if there was anything she could do.
Mizore touched her shoulder and gestured further in the darkness. Kurumu closed her eyes as she heard Tsukune's frantic breaths and his fist slamming over and over again. That boy was dead. Just stop.
Taking a deep breath, she knew what she had to do. She had to catch his attention and charm him. Once under her control, they could bring things back to the way it was. She had to believe. Opening her eyes, she started towards him.
"Kurumu, stop!"
She glanced over, noting the silver haired Moka crouched in the rubble beneath a catwalk. The vampire was on her hands and knees, crawling slowly towards them.
"You have to stay away from him."
Tsukune's head cocked back as he peered at her through the darkness. Dropping the hunk of flesh that had been a person, he slowly got back up on his feet.
"I have to save him."
"Get Yukari out of here first."
Kurumu paused, looking between the two.
"Please, Kurumu. I need you to stay away from him."
"I'm the only one that can."
Moka shook her head.
"It's Shirayuki, right? Freeze the lines above us. I'll take care of the rest."
"You bastard!"
Tsukune turned as a boy slammed into him. The guy slashed into Tsukune once, but Tsukune grabbed the hand that had pierced him and held it fast. He twisted in, smashing his other fist so hard at the boy's elbow that the limb came off at the shoulder. The boy howled in agony as Tsukune yanked out the appendage and proceeded to pummel the shaggy haired blond repeatedly with it.
"Shirayuki, please!"
Kurumu nodded.
"Do it."
Mizore swallowed, stepping away from her. The snow girl threw her palms up, fingers splayed as the drizzle about her immediately turned to slush. The temperature dipped as the room filled with snow. The whiteness stretched upwards till the rafters were covered in a sheet of ice. The last snowflakes spiraled down to the rubble as the boy's gurgles were finally silenced.
Moka sighed with relief as she staggered up on her feet. She panted while brushing the powder off her bloodied jacket.
"Good. Now get Yukari out of here."
"Why is he attacking them like that?"
Moka regarded Mizore with an air of distaste.
"Because he has succumbed to my blood and become a ghoul. Now help with Yukari."
Kurumu stared at Tsukune whom continued to beat on the boy that was no longer moving.
"I have to stop him."
"It won't work, Kurumu. He won't let you get close enough."
"I can charm him."
Moka shook her head, stalking towards him.
"He has my blood and I've drank yours. I can't risk that. Losing one of you is enough."
Kurumu could sense Moka's intention but it was wavering.
"You can't do this, Moka. Let me help him."
Moka glanced over her shoulder with a slight smile.
"Please get Yukari out of here. Please."
Mizore tugged on Kurumu's sleeve. Kurumu knew Moka was planning to kill Tsukune, but the hesitation and doubt gave her the strength to trust in Moka. The silver Moka felt everything, saw everything and experienced everything. Even if she disagreed with the feelings, she could not deny them. There was no way she could carry out her logical conclusion.
"I think she's over here."
Kurumu could make out an old sofa pushed up against a steel ladder which went up to a mezzanine. A length of chain dangled from the ladder upon the cushions. Not far from the sofa pushed up against the wall beneath the mezzanine was a dingy old mattress held up by a white, aluminum frame. More chains were draped around the posts, though these were wrapped about the tiny limbs of Yukari.
Her heart lurched as she saw Yukari's face. Her cheeks were torn and bloodied, broken teeth visible in the gap. Her nose was broken and twisted. The small witch remained still with her gaze staring emptily out at the unfolding nightmare. Only the slight rise of her chest betrayed she still lived.
Kurumu quickly walked around the couch to sit on the grimy mattress. Yukari's clothes had been torn in the front, baring everything. Taking a steadying breath, Kurumu reached down and caressed Yukari's busted cheek, the girl not flinching. The familiar scent left no question as to what had happened.
"Yukari?"
The girl's empty stare turned upon her.
"I'm going to get you out of here."
Kurumu reached over to the chains that held both of Yukari's wrists over her head. Letting her finger turn into a talon, she slashed through the metal link with ease. Sniffling, Kurumu turned over to slash through the links that held Yukari's right leg to one post. The witch groaned from Kurumu putting weight upon her, but it was the quickest way to get to the chains holding her left leg to the other end.
"I'm sorry, Yukari. I'm going to pick you up now."
Kurumu dragged Yukari's leg over to join the other. She pushed her hands beneath the girl, hauling her up into her arms. Yukari groaned, her wrists still chained together as her fingers tightly clenched Kurumu's sleeve. Shifting the girl in her arms, Kurumu staggered back and turned about.
Moka slammed a kick to the back of Tsukune's head, spinning him about. She followed up with a knife hand strike which he dodged but Moka promptly whirled about with an elbow that caught his jaw. In a blur of motions, she pushed Tsukune back against the wall before knifing her hand through the exterior.
"She's going to kill him."
Kurumu shuddered at Mizore's assessment. Watching the developing scene, it seemed impossible for Tsukune to absorb that many strikes and still manage to dodge some. She could not say if this was the strength of the beast or if Moka was pulling her punches.
Blood.
Moka had given blood and was too weak. It was the same as when she had fought Kuyo.
"You need to restrain Tsukune. Freeze him with your ice."
"Moka will kill him if I do that."
"Then freeze them both. I have to take Yukari outside. Can you do that, Mizore?"
Mizore took a deep breath and nodded.
Holding Yukari close, Kurumu jogged towards the bright entrance to the building. She had to stay calm. She had to stay focused. She had to get Yukari out of the room. If Mizore could freeze the two vampires, then Kurumu could get any other survivors out. With the room emptied, then she could slip into her dream world and get Tsukune back. She had to get the survivors out first. There was no telling how dangerous it would be for anyone else to enter his madness.
She stepped out into the bright afternoon sun and it was like entering a different world. The smell and the air was full of life. The humidity had not dispersed, but this was still much better than the gritty atmosphere inside. Taking a deep breath, Kurumu knelt down and set Yukari on a patch of grass between the strewn remains of the building front.
As she pulled away, she felt her blouse strain as Yukari's grip seized firmly upon her sleeve. The girl's eyes had regained some luster and she was shaking her head.
"Don't leave me. Don't leave me."
"I'm going to be right back."
"Don't leave me. Please. Don't leave me."
Yukari's eyes brimmed with tears as she continued to shake her head.
"Don't leave me."
Kurumu leaned down and caressed the sides of Yukari's face, pressing her lips upon Yukari's forehead.
"It will be fine. I have to save our friends now."
Yukari started to bawl and it tore at Kurumu's heart. She freed herself of the girl, ignoring the pleas to stay as she forced herself back into the dark, bloodied room. Other than groans, the room was silent. She stalked deeper into the darkness, her eyes quickly readjusting.
Tsukune had not left much to identify on several of these boys. She spied Nerume, lying face down on the pavement. She knelt down beside the girl, brushing back her ebony tresses. Her face was caked in blood and her eyes were closed. Feeling her neck, Kurumu detected the faint rhythm of a pulse.
"It's not going to work!"
"I can't let you kill him."
"There's nothing left! He's already dead."
"I won't let you kill him. Kurumu can save him."
"You're a coward that wouldn't lift a finger to help us when Tsukune was being attacked. That little girl got broken in half and you just watched."
Kurumu walked up beside Mizore as she trembled with unstable emotions. The air about her was difficult to breathe. Blocks of ice had been thrown up about both Moka and Tsukune, leaving only their heads free. Tsukune stared dimly across the gap at Moka. It was that same detached, distant gaze he would slip into since yesterday.
"You did good, Mizore. I can take things from here."
"You can't do this, Kurumu. He will kill you."
"It will be the same as last time."
"No, it won't. There's nothing in that head of his anymore."
"I have to try."
"Don't you value your life, Kurumu? Don't do this."
"I have to."
"I don't know if she can bear it. After seeing what they did to Yukari and losing Tsukune, don't make her lose you too."
Mizore hissed, stepping forward between the two captives.
"Stop pretending you care! I've never trusted you. You made him into this so don't you dare accuse me of doing nothing. Did you expect me to come into a room with more than half a dozen boys to help you? You have done nothing for me."
"They were your friends. You should have helped them."
Mizore trembled.
"They were hurt because of you. If you had broken things off with him, none of this would have happened. It's all your fault."
"You're a fool. Komiya was after us both. There's nothing I could have done to change that."
"Then you shouldn't have killed those boys to start this."
Moka stared angrily at Mizore.
"If anyone killed those boys, it was Tsukune. She was too afraid to admit that."
There was a moment of confusion as that information set in. Ice shattered as a new sensation enveloped them. Kurumu realized that Tora's barrier had been set.
"Mizore!"
It was too late. Tsukune grabbed the snow girl about her midsection and spun about hard. He slammed Mizore into the exterior wall with enough force to shove her upper torso through it. Cinderblock crumbled about the girl as she hung limply in the new opening.
Kurumu broke out in tears as she launched into him, shaking him by the shoulders. She stared into his eyes, shaking her head as she hoped with all her heart that Mizore was alive.
"Stop, please, stop. Tsukune, please stop."
"Get away from him!"
He staggered back as she looked in his eyes, not daring to blink.
"You love me. She's your friend. We're your friends and you love me."
She caressed the side of his head as she stared at him.
"Calm down. It's safe now. We love you and you're safe. Calm down."
"Please don't do this! Move aside, please!"
"You love me and it will be fine. We'll all be fine."
She felt his hands settle on her waist. She caressed the side of his face as she looked in his eyes and regarded his lips. She leaned in, thinking one kiss would be enough.
She took a sharp breath as his hands tore through her midsection. It was so hot and wet and she could feel stuff falling out of her. She heard Moka cry out and a strong hand grabbed her by the shoulder. She was torn free of his grasp, slamming hard against the floor. She could see him standing with a crazed look, holding bits of intestines in his gore stained fingers.
Moka cried out but it sounded dim and far away. The vampire launched into Tsukune with much more ferocity than before, smashing him through the wall not far from Mizore's limp figure. She lost sight of them as they took the fight out in the open.
Tora hovered over her, eyes wide in horror. The sphinx caressed the side of her face as another touched her torso. It felt so cold. Everything felt so cold.
"I can heal you."
Tora nodded, looking over her.
"I can heal you."
"Save."
Tora was crying as she made a diamond pattern of blue against her chest.
"Save Tsukune."
She felt so warm. There was light filling up the room. It was so bright. There were shouts and loud noises, drowning out the sound of her heart. She was floating, far, far away. She could not tell if her eyes were open or shut. So exhausted. So peaceful.