It was fairly warm despite being early morning. Kurumu stood beside the road with Satsuki, both still wearing the pajamas from last night. Peering down the stretch of pavement to the black darkness of the tunnel carved into the hillside, Kurumu hoped that bus driver might do her a favor by not showing up.
Mr. Sendou stood near the bus stop sign, holding two bags. One of those bags held Yukari's desk while the other had her bed. It was hard to explain how he had managed it, despite having seen him cast the spell that had made the bed less rigid. He had folded the bed up like a sheet and had squeezed it into the bag like any other item.
Rubi stood beside him with two more bags of Yukari's things. Knowing she would make a fuss, her mother had insisted keeping the wardrobe in one while the kitchen goods went in the other. Satsuki was holding the fifth bag of the few bathroom things, amused that the Sendous had managed to get all of Yukari's belongings into portable bags.
Yukari was wearing the panda pajamas her mother had put her in. Both parents were dressed in the same clothes from yesterday, the father stating it was a short drive to their home and there was no reason to travel heavier than necessary. Rubi admitted that she owned nothing else.
Kurumu frowned as a long black car emerged from the shadows. The side windows gleamed like the obsidian glass panels of the dining hall. The headlights flanked a chrome grill with a wide bumper. The car silently approached without the hint of an engine, drifting over to a stop in front of them.
"It looks like a hearse."
The long car was similar but lacked the boxy back Kurumu associated with the death vehicles. Satsuki's free hand squeezed her shoulder as the car settled down and the door opened. The familiar driver emerged in a puff of smoke, placing his cap on the top of the car while regarding her with a grin.
"Hello again, young lady."
Kurumu scowled at the amusement in his voice. She glanced aside as Mr. Sendou started for the back of the vehicle with Rubi following quietly behind him. Mrs. Sendou approached the driver, holding Yukari up in her arms as the girl was still unable to walk on her own.
"Thank you for doing this on such short notice, Mr. Nurari."
"No trouble at all. I owe the young miss for helping rescue that young woman."
Mrs. Sendou smiled as her husband opened up the trunk and settled his burden into the space.
"She really is Toujou's daughter? I remember Father having them over a couple times when I was child. It's so hard to believe that little girl is already so grown up."
Mr. Nurari chuckled about his cigar as Rubi handed her bags over to Mr. Sendou.
"You weren't that grown up back then either."
"True. But I went to high school shortly after their last visit."
"Like mother like daughter."
Mrs. Sendou smiled, holding her Yukari closer.
"That was Father's meddling. I struggled to be average. My baby is so much smarter."
Mrs. Sendou made a soft sound as her eyes betrayed anguish.
"She gets that from her father."
Mr. Nurari slapped the top of the car with a gloved hand.
"Take that bag over to Mr. Sendou, little kitten."
Satsuki scowled, stalking off to the back of the car. The driver chuckled, regarding Kurumu with a mischievous glint. Taking a long draw on his cigar, he stared into her eyes with amusement.
"So have you tried pulling her out?"
"Pulling her out?"
"Poor thing has broken her mind. I figured you would at least attempt trying to save her instead of letting her parents spirit her away from the school."
Kurumu paused, wondering why that had not crossed her mind.
"Mr. Nurari. We don't know what is wrong with our daughter but healing spells and medicines are clearly not improving her situation. Tamanori wants her to see a specialist and I agree that a change in environment could help her."
The back of the vehicle was closed up as the other three wandered back to them. Mr. Sendou had a long frown as he regarded his wife.
"What is the delay?"
"It's nothing dear. Mr. Nurari was implying Ms. Kurono could do something."
Mr. Sendou chuckled, shaking his head.
"We are aware that Ms. Kurono is a succubus. Any powers she might have over the minds of men would be pretty useless in this situation."
"That's not remotely true. A succubus has the ability to wander into the minds of any sentient being."
Both parents regarded her with interest. Mrs. Sendou regarded her husband.
"She did say Ms. Kurono was taking her around in dreams."
"This is not the time for this. We have a specialist scheduled on Tuesday. Let a professional handle this."
Mr. Nurari grinned at Kurumu. He liked playing games. He had forced Yukari's parents to spend the night here. Aware of the driver's ties with the Headmaster, she wondered if their escape from the hospital had been allowed with the sole hope that she came in contact with Yukari's parents.
"Let me try. I have some idea of what he expects me to do."
"I'm not certain I should allow such a thing. No disrespect, but you're a child, Ms. Kurono. Our daughter has made it clear to us that you don't have a strong feel for your powers."
Kurumu smiled softly at Yukari's father, shrugging.
"It can't be worse than being killed dozens of times by the boy I'm in love with. Whatever Yukari has going on in her head, I don't think she will hurt me."
Mr. Sendou regarded the driver.
"Can it make her worse? Will allowing Ms. Kurono to do this potentially bring harm to our daughter?"
Mr. Nurari puffed on his cigar, making no answer or show of response.
"Dear. You know that's always a possibility."
Mr. Sendou sighed, gesturing at his wife.
"So what is it you require? Shall we lie her down in the dirt?"
Kurumu glanced about, realizing this was not the best place to do such a thing. Forcing a smile, she backed away from the road and lowered down on her knees.
"You could put her head in my lap."
"Don't you need your tail for this?"
Kurumu smiled at Satsuki.
"I don't think so. I think that's for when I want to bring a lot of people in my head."
Mrs. Sendou knelt down in front of Kurumu, carefully placing Yukari upon the ground. The mother laughed softly as she struggled to get free of her daughter's grip.
"Help me. She doesn't want to let go."
Kurumu smiled reaching up and firmly pulling Yukari's right arm away by the wrist. Mrs. Sendou gently lowered Yukari's head against Kurumu's thigh. The girl made a slight whimper as she stared off at the gap between the road and the bottom of the car. With Mrs. Sendou's aid, Kurumu folded Yukari's hands together against her small chest.
Kurumu frowned as Mrs. Sendou brushed Yukari's fine locks about her tiny ear. There was a fine puncture wound upon Yukari's throat on the right side which was red and swollen.
"What is this?"
Mr. Sendou snorted as he hovered over them.
"We have no idea. Our spells would not heal this wound and those imbeciles at the hospital could not answer me. I'm hoping our specialist will be able to provide some educated answers."
Kurumu touched the wound and a shudder coursed down her spine. A soft, sinister whisper breathed harm into her ear. She could not make out words, but it was a sickening desire to kill. Death. Kurumu brushed her other hand against Yukari's temple.
Kurumu let out a soft breath as she pressed her hand firmly on Yukari's temple. The hissing became louder and she grimaced. She did not understand this. She had pushed inside the Headmaster and Mrs. Shuzen with less effort. What was this resistance? It felt nothing like Yukari.
"I don't understand."
"What's wrong?"
She could not explain that. Letting go of Yukari's wound, she reached back and tugged down her sleep pant so she could snake out her tail.
"Do you think you guys could like move out of sight? I may have to use my tail."
The driver chuckled, leaning back against the car.
"That won't work, young lady. She's not cognizant enough to bring in your head."
Kurumu scowled as she gripped the end of her tail below the spade.
"What did you want me to do?"
Mr. Nurari puffed on his cigar twice, blowing out a huge cloud of smoke.
"Try putting that on her face. Better yet. Put that fancy thing in her wound. I'm sure you'll get inside your little friend."
Kurumu let her petals part. She smiled at Mrs. Sendou before guiding her stigma to Yukari's throat. She exhaled, closing her eyes once she saw the tip pushing in the shallow wound.
The sibilant voice became clear and unmistakable. Strong emotions drowned out the message. Anger. Fear. Desperation. Intent to kill. Desire to protect. He would kill her if she failed. He would kill those most precious to her. Naru, Yaku and Kori. She had to protect them. Clean up the mess. No survivors.
She was wandering down the hall. It was the wide hall of the hospital. Her feet dragged with each step as she barely registered her surroundings. The voice whispered to her. Told her where to go. This room was her first destination.
She pushed open the door. It was a patient room, much like any other. She was on the fourth floor. She was holding some bags in her hands. She could not remember how they had come to be in her hands. She knew she had to hook them to the machines. If she hooked these to the machines, she would save her friends. She would protect everyone from these monsters.
It was sunny outside. She could see the clouds in the distance through the window. She shuffled closer to the bed, hearing the beeps of the machine the patient was hooked to. The young man was lying on the bed, his face and torso wrapped in bandages. His right arm rested on the blue blanket. There was a needle secured in his arm that was hooked to bags on a steel rack.
She walked up closer, placing two of the bags on the bed. The last bag she hung upon the rack. These bags had hoses connected to their bottoms. She took the hose and pushed it in one of the clips on the line to the man's veins. Pushing a couple clips, she watched as the fluid from the bag started to trickle down the hose into the line. Her task complete, she retrieved her other two bags and headed out the door. She could hear the slight beeping of the machine accelerate as she wandered down the hall.
She had two more.
Kurumu willed herself out of the dream. She held herself still, allowing the dazed Yukari to walk on to the next patient room without her.
"You have to stop!"
Yukari pushed open the door of a room three doors down. She vanished inside, prompting Kurumu to hurry to the door. Methodically the little girl was going through the same motions as she had done to the first boy.
"You don't have to do this, Yukari. Don't listen to her. We were safe. These boys didn't need to die."
Yukari finished hooking up the second boy. She staggered back to the bed, retrieving the last of the bags. She headed back out into the hall, not acknowledging Kurumu.
There were cries of alarm as the staff started to hurry to the room of the first boy. Yukari ignored them. She headed further down the hall, intent on the last door. The last door for Midou.
Kurumu hurried down and grabbed Yukari by the shoulders. She spun the girl about and shook her. The girl had dull, lifeless eyes.
"Yukari! Wake up!"
"I have to clean up this mess. I have to protect everyone."
It was Yukari's voice but another will.
"Please! Don't make her do this!"
Kurumu pulled Yukari in tightly, hugging the girl close.
Her hands were tied together. She could not move them. She whimpered as this bastard shoved himself in deeper, causing her to scream. It hurt so much. She yanked on the chains holding her legs apart on this smelly mattress. He did it again and she sobbed. She hated him. If she could get her hands free, she would kill him. She had never hated a person so much.
"Fuck you!"
A fist slammed against her torn, bloodied cheek.
"I am fucking you, stupid bitch."
"You're so sick, dude."
"Sure about this, Midou?"
"I don't give a shit what he does with that mouthy bitch."
She could hear Moka sobbing as this piece of filth bore down upon her. Her nose was bleeding. She tried to struggle but it only made it hurt worse.
"Stop! Please! She didn't do anything!"
"My brother deserved more, mouthy shit!"
His fist slammed down two more times. It felt so surreal. Her mouth was bleeding. She glanced aside, her eyes catching the gaze of a hazel eyed blond. Why did he look like that? Anguish. He looked away as the monster atop her yanked her by the chin.
"Don't look away from me, bitch!"
She spit a tooth in his face. He crushed her nose. So much pain and her vision was a blur of tears and blood. She could barely make out this fat ass's visage with those hollow eyes and perverse grin. She tuned it all out, favoring words as the only worthy input to register.
"He's killing her."
"They're all dying anyways. What's it matter?"
"I gave you permission to fuck her, Sumita. Nobody dies before Aono is here to see it."
"Pity you won't let us have her."
"The vampire bitch is mine."
"Why? I promised to do anything."
"You will. I expect you to moan like a whore in front of your man."
"Fuck it. Can't do this."
"Where the fuck you think you're going?"
"I have a sister, you sick fucks. Fuck you all."
Several boys laughed, mocking the guy. He must have left as she heard no response to their jeers. Idle banter. Hatred. Minutes passed without any important words.
"Should we have let him leave like that?"
"We don't need cowards that have no stomach for justice."
"What if he snitches on us?"
"We can deal with him later."
"Is she still alive?"
Her assailant laughed.
"I think she's loosened up for me. Sick bitch likes it."
"If she's dead, you're dead. Do you understand me?"
A couple boys snickered as this bastard finally pulled away from her. She stared vacantly up at him, noting his anger. With a scowl he slammed his fist against her chest, making it hard to breathe as her sternum cracked audibly.
She wheezed out her breath as he walked out of view. She stared up at the dark ceiling, her thoughts spiraling about her. She had fucked up again. A miscalculation. If she had played it differently, things would have been different. No. They were plotting to kill them regardless. There was time magic. She could step back and change things. As long as she did it soon. A quick fix caused less damage than something in the distant past. What could she have done differently?
Yukari scowled as she lifted the remote and pressed a button. The images on the TV screen worked back as she shook her head.
"There has to be something."
"What are you doing?"
Yukari did not bother looking up in this dark space. There was nothing here but herself, the TV and the remote in her hand. She was naked but only because clothes no longer mattered.
"Go away."
Kurumu drifted down, touching Yukari's shoulders.
"Yukari. Stop."
"I can fix this."
Kurumu smiled.
"You can't."
"If I jump back with my consciousness, I could possess my body and make a better decision. I have to go to a time before they grabbed us."
"I can't let you do that, Yukari."
A depressive emotion filled the air as the screen started replaying the gruesome assault upon her.
"There's too much wrong. I can't leave this unfixed. I need to figure out where to go and how to cast the spell. Give me more time."
"It's been days, Yukari. There's no time left."
"No. If I wake up now, it will be real."
"I'm sorry, Yukari."
Yukari started to cry, shaking her head.
"No. Don't make me go out."
Kurumu sighed, wondering if there was anything she could do. She smiled softly at the TV.
"There should be a player."
With a thought, Kurumu willed a VHS player into existence beside the TV. Tousling Yukari's locks, she floated over to the VHS player.
"What are you doing?"
Kurumu pressed the eject button, causing the screen to turn into white snow. Kurumu took the cassette out and pushed it against her bosom. Taking a deep breath, she caused it to vanish within her. She had seen all of this. She had felt all of this. She would not forget any of it.
"What did you do?"
Kurumu smiled, holding her hand out.
"Come with me."
Yukari looked about, bewildered.
"Where are we?"
"I'm taking you home."
The moment Kurumu touched her hand, they appeared in Yukari's suite. It was fully furnished as it had been yesterday. Yukari was dressed in her witch hat and robe, despite both having been lost to the field trip. She frowned at Kurumu.
"Why do you insist that I be in this childish body?"
Kurumu smiled as Yukari promptly turned herself into the older version of herself. Yukari walked about her room, turning about sharply to regard her.
"What is going on?"
"Your parents are taking you home."
Yukari regarded her with confusion.
"Why would they be doing that?"
Kurumu smiled softly. She felt better. Sad and hurt. She knew exactly what had happened to Yukari. And she had taken it from her.
"Don't worry. I'm sure they will let you come back when they realize I have fixed you."
"Fixed me? What was wrong?"
"Hopefully everything will be fine when you return. But for now, we need you to wake up."
Yukari held her hands up as Kurumu stepped in closer.
"Wait. What have you done?"
Kurumu ignored the gesture, grabbing up the girl and hugging her fiercely.
"It's okay. You don't need to remember any of it."
Kurumu breathed out loudly as she felt hot fluids pour upon her leg. She quickly closed up her petals as her tail drew away from Yukari. She gasped out her breaths, glancing up at the group about her, whom had mixed looks of confusion and relief.
Yukari lifted her hands up to her face and started bawling. She shook her head, muttering denials as her mother leaned in to caress her head.
"What's wrong?"
Kurumu groaned, feeling the cramp in her legs. She wondered how long she had been doing this. It did not seem that much later.
"What time?"
Satsuki regarded the sobbing witch, shaking her head.
"You've been out almost an hour, Kurumu."
Mrs. Sendou pulled Yukari up into her arms, kissing the girl's forehead as Yukari naturally clung to her. The mother shed her own tears as Mr. Sendou sighed.
"I suppose crying is better than the state she had been in."
Kurumu smiled softly.
"She's upset because I took something."
"Like what?"
"All her memories of it."
The bus driver cackled, shaking his head. With a dramatic sigh, he struck a match and lit up a new cigar.
"Haven't seen a succubus go that far in ages. Not good for the heart so most won't do it, if you know what I mean."
Satsuki stepped in beside her, placing a hand on Kurumu's shoulder. She frowned at Kurumu, gingerly touching Kurumu's temple.
"You made her forget?"
"Yea."
"Why are you here? You shouldn't be here. Why?"
Mrs. Sendou sniffled as she cradled her sobbing daughter against her.
"Hush now. It's okay. We're taking you home."
"No. You shouldn't be here."
Mr. Sendou sighed, hovering over his family. He smiled at Rubi, whom placed a hand on his shoulder. Straightening up, he cleared his throat.
"Yukari. What day is it?"
Yukari shook her head against her mother's chest.
"No. I don't want to go."
"What day is it?"
The girl pulled her face from her mother. She glanced about, meeting Kurumu's gaze for a moment before glancing up at Satsuki. She turned her head.
"Where's Moka? Where's everyone?"
"Ms. Akashiya is staying with Ms. Nekonome for now."
"Why? What happened?"
"What day is it, Yukari?"
The young witch winced at her father's inquiry.
"Wednesday?"
Satsuki gasped as Mrs. Sendou sniffled, drawing a finger across Yukari's cheek.
"My dearest kitten. It's Sunday."
Yukari shook her head.
"No. No, no, no. That can't be. I was with Moka and Tsukune. She was demanding to see the wound on his neck and he ran off. That was Tuesday. It can't be Sunday."
"It's true, my darling. Today is Sunday and this young lady helped you regain consciousness."
Clutching her mother's blouse, Yukari regarded Kurumu.
"What did you do?"
Kurumu smiled softly.
"I woke you up. You were trapped in a nightmare, so I took it away."
"She made you better, Yukari. You've been catatonic for days."
Yukari glanced down. She let go of her mother to touch her jaw as another hand drifted down her torso.
"My teeth hurt. They didn't hurt before. Something's not right. I don't feel right. What happened?"
"You'll be coming home. We have an appointment with a real doctor to examine your injuries."
"Don't you mean dentist? Why does my body ache? Did I fall and break my pelvis? Hit my head?"
Mrs. Sendou wrapped the girl back up in a fierce hug.
"You're fine, my precious girl. You're fine."
"Why can't I remember anything? How did I get home?"
Mr. Sendou sighed, relaxing his shoulders.
"We need to be leaving now."
"No, no, no. I can't leave without Moka."
Rubi knelt down beside Mrs. Sendou. She cocked her head and smiled at Yukari.
"Ms. Akashiya is safe, Yukari. But she didn't want to be here. She felt responsible for your condition."
"But I'm fine now. Kurumu fixed me so I can stay. I can stay."
"You can't stay."
"Let go of me."
Yukari pushed on her mother, forcing herself onto the ground for a moment. She shrieked out when her mother touched her side, causing Mrs. Sendou to jerk back. With a scramble, Yukari got to her feet but shrank back from her father. She whirled about, clutching her hands to her chest.
"Stop! Leave me alone! I need to think!"
"It's been decided, Yukari. Get in the car."
Yukari shook her head at her father as Rubi straightened back up.
"Why is she here? I don't want her here."
Rubi cringed, shrinking back. Yukari's mother smiled, placing a comforting hand on Rubi's shoulder.
"We knew the Toujou family and have agreed to shelter this young woman, if that is okay with you."
"You can take her, but I'm staying here."
Feeling uncomfortable, Kurumu stiffly got up from her knees.
"Maybe you could let her stay?"
Mr. Sendou sighed.
"I'm thankful for what you have done, but she needs to come home. You are not a physician and I have no faith in the services here."
"I'm not a child. I can take care of myself."
"Honey, you were out for days. If it was not for Mr. Nurari's suggestion, Ms. Kurono would not have thought to help you."
Yukari favored Kurumu with a frustrated look.
"She's dumb. Okay. Everybody knows she can't come up with ideas on her own. I'm fine now, so you can go home with Rubi. She needs to be housebroken."
Satsuki snorted, turning her wry smile away from the adults.
"You will get in this car young lady or I will stop funding your education here."
Yukari grimaced, regarding the vehicle. Her eyes glanced up at the driver, whom was grinning with a cigar in the crook of his mouth. Scowling, she shook her head.
"I want to see Moka first."
Mr. Sendou's face darkened.
"No. You will respect your parents."
"I'm sure Moka will fund my tuition if I ask."
"Yukari, stop. It might be best if you do go with your parents for now."
"I'm not leaving, Kurumu. It's your fault. If you had fixed me sooner, my parents would not have been brought into this."
"Stuff it, brat. Kurumu is supposed to be in the hospital right now."
Kurumu winced at Yukari's confusion.
"Satsuki, don't."
"Akashiya's not here because it is her fault."
Yukari's lower lip trembled.
"What happened?"
"What matters is that your parents are here for you. Not Akashiya."
Yukari shook her head.
"No. I should know what happened."
Satsuki huffed, crossing her arms about her chest.
"You couldn't handle what happened. Why would anyone tell you what happened and risk you turning back into a vegetable?"
Yukari glanced at the car as her father opened the back door. She turned her head aside, regarding the ground at her feet.
"Is Tsukune alive?"
"Yes."
"Tora? Ginei?"
"Everybody is fine, Yukari."
"That's not true, Kurumu."
Kurumu smiled softly at Satsuki.
"None of our friends are dead."
Satsuki sighed, looking away.
"Yea. I guess we can say that much."
"No, this isn't right. Kurumu can't be left alone."
Satsuki choked out a laugh.
"She's fine, brat. I'll keep an eye on her."
"I'm a little sore, but I shouldn't need a doctor. I don't need to go."
Her father stalked over and placed a hand on her shoulder. Yukari bowed her head.
"I don't want to go."
"I haven't removed you from the school. Your mother refused."
Mrs. Sendou forced a smile.
"This school is special to our family. We will discuss when you can return after talk with our physician."
Mr. Sendou sighed as his wife came over to join him.
"You presume things will improve at this school. Clearly Kuyo was not the only problem."
"Get in the car, my kitten."
Yukari turned a meek expression upon her mother.
"I don't want to go. My friends will fall apart without me."
"I'm sure you will see your friends again. Now indulge your poor mother and let me spoil you while we make sure you recover."
Yukari sighed. She pushed by her father to linger at the open car door.
"I want my ears pierced. This dummy was supposed to do that with me."
Rubi smiled, bowing her head.
"I'm sorry."
"Get in the car, idiot."
"Oh, I, uh, wasn't sure where I was supposed to sit."
"You can be in the front with Mr. Nurari. We will keep our daughter company."
"Oh, of course."
Rubi quickly darted around the car to the front door, tugging it open. Yukari's father walked around the back of the vehicle, intent on the other back door while Mrs. Sendou eased over to touch Yukari's shoulders. The woman smiled at Kurumu as the driver put his cap back on and snuffed his cigar on his sleeve. With a chuckle, Mr. Nurari slipped inside the vehicle, slamming the door almost in unison with the others. The car lifted up.
"Thank you. Both of you."
"Why thank the cat? All she did was scold me."
"We have lemon sorbet waiting at home for you."
"You're supposed to use bribery first and then resort to bullying."
"Did you want to hug your friends before we go?"
"I'd rather not have Kurumu pressing her tits against me."
Mrs. Sendou laughed as her daughter finally slipped into the car. She followed Yukari in, flashing another smile at them before tugging the door shut. In moments, the car eased back onto the road, turning across the paved path. It reversed once to complete the turnabout. The car steadily took off in the direction of the dark tunnel that would take her friend home.
Kurumu sighed, hoping she had made the right decision. She could have convinced the Sendous to let Yukari stay with her charm but this felt safer.
"She's lucky."
Kurumu regarded Satsuki, whom nodded with a tightness in her jaw.
"To be able to forget. You did something that I'm sure some girls wish for every day."
Kurumu realized that included Satsuki. Her emotions over the fates of Yukari and Moka coupled with her bitterness about not being a virgin suggested something that Kurumu did not want to know.
"Satsuki. I need you to stay with Nerume. She can't go back to the hospital."
Satsuki frowned.
"Why?"
"It's not safe. Someone made Yukari kill those boys. Keep Nerume safe until I contact you."
"What do you plan to do?"
Kurumu smiled softly.
"I plan to capture her."
"There she is."
Kurumu smiled as Tora and Dangai briskly walked down the trail towards her. Clearly flying lessons had been canceled for the day. That dark green polo would be ruined if Tora let her wings out. Her dark, textured slacks clung tightly about her waist and calves. Unsurprisingly, Dangai had faded pink sweat pants that hung loosely from her hips and a black tee which was spattered with bleach stains.
"We've been looking all over for you."
Kurumu moved slowly to keep in pace with Nerume. Satsuki lingered on the other side of the struggling girl, prepared to assist if needed. Kurumu glanced at her lace ribbon tied about her wrist, mildly wondering where her watch was. She hoped the hospital had not thrown it away with her other things.
By the time she had returned to Hiyoshi's suite, half the girls had left to carry on with whatever Sunday plans they had. Tsubuyama had stuck around to help bathe Nerume and Sakamori. The trio of juniors had kept her friends company while Kurumu returned to her suite to shower and change into her canary halter top and gray cotton shorts.
Having slept through breakfast, Hidarimeki and Tsubuyama had pushed for an early lunch. Not wanting to waste time waiting around for the dining hall to start serving lunch, they stopped at the commissary to pick up a few odds and ends while Kurumu mailed off her letter to her mother with a copy of the last paper. Still arriving early, they had been the first group in line when lunch was served.
A few familiar faces had greeted her at lunch. Ushio had greeted her heartily, pleased to see she was out of the hospital and able to attend their afternoon game against Ishou. He boasted about yesterday's victory over Katame and promised they would be victorious today if she cheered them on. She politely declined, reminding him that a succubus was not allowed to interfere in competitions.
Half the first years from choir paid a visit. Her former classmates, Natsudera and Chousei, had fussed over Nerume's condition, offering to change up their morning routine to accompany Nerume to school in the morning. Utachi added the fact that the other half of the first year choir girls ate breakfast late, which had all in agreement that it was a great idea.
Nerume had broken down in tears when Kakeru and Goto delayed their departure from the dining hall for some words. The poor girl could not bear the pained look from Kakeru, whom had planned to visit her in the hospital today instead of going on another date with Kitamori. Nerume sobbed over how cool she thought Kitamori was before Satsuki dragged the girl off to get properly dressed.
Striving for comfort, they had helped Nerume into simple clothes. The black tee had the bathing ape in a green outfit holding hello kitty and was long enough to fully cover her baby pink shorts. Satsuki had settled on a buttoned up checkered shirt and blue jeans. They were heading back to the dining hall so Nerume could spend the rest of the day with Kakeru.
"I was hoping to see you today."
It was true, though Kurumu had never formulated a plan how she would find Tora. She had hoped Tora would come to lunch after her flying lesson. When Tora had failed to show up in the dining hall, Kurumu had checked if the girl had been in her dorm room. Striking out with that, Kurumu suspected she should try the hospital.
"Morning Ms. Nazohashi. Ms. Dangai."
Tora smiled as she closed the remaining distance, holding a hand out to encourage them to stop.
"You should be in the hospital, Ms. Genzouyaki."
"But I had to be with Satsuki on her birthday."
"You two should be ashamed of yourselves, dragging her around campus like this."
"It's good exercise for my arms."
"Kurumu said it's not safe to be at the hospital right now."
"What makes you say that?"
Kurumu smiled softly.
"It's a matter that should not be discussed openly, though I should also tell Tokori."
"What does Ms. Meirowasa have to do with this?"
"Her mother works at the hospital. I'm worried her family is in danger."
Tora paused thoughtfully.
"Has she told you the reason, Ms. Unari?"
"No, but I don't see the harm in keeping Nerume in the dorms a couple more days. We were going to spend the rest of the day with Kakeru and Goto."
Dangai grinned.
"That one be lively. Fun gal to be around."
"If you say so."
Nerume smiled.
"You could come with us, Ms. Dangai."
"Naw. Not feel rights bout ditching Kiki like that."
"Where is Ms. Honda?"
"Where you two are supposed to be."
Kurumu chuckled at Tora's scolding.
"Why would she be there? We spoke with both of you yesterday."
"Well ya didn't show fer breakfast. Thoughts ya might have went back."
Kurumu supposed that was reasonable. With a smile, she gestured at Tora.
"I see you guys decided against flying."
"I convinced Ms. Tobuyoku to cancel for the morning."
"I'm surprised she gave in so easily."
"I practiced flying yesterday."
"You were dressed for flying yesterday?"
Tora rolled her eyes.
"They forced me to wear a spare track outfit. It was humiliating."
"Ya fret over nothing. Heard nobody was bouts to see ya."
Tora sighed.
"I would not say most the track team is nobody."
"Chicks don't count."
Kurumu grinned at Tora's distress.
"So how is the flying going?"
"I suppose I'm doing well enough. It seems a silly thing to care about at the moment."
"It's not like they'll stop demanding us to turn in homework."
"That's different, Ms. Unari. Speaking of which, I have your handouts, Ms. Genzouyaki."
"I have to do homework?"
Satsuki chuckled, glancing at Kurumu.
"Ichida gave me yours."
Kurumu smiled softly.
"Did he also give you Yukari's?"
Satsuki winced, nodding apologetically.
"I'm sure you can give those to Ms. Sendou when she gets better."
Kurumu paused, sharing a glance with Satsuki.
"Yukari left with her parents this morning."
"What? She's already gone?"
Kurumu smiled apologetically at Tora's pained expression.
"Why didn't you say anything?"
"You knew her parents were coming this weekend."
"Ginei was planning to spend all of today at the hospital with the hopes of delaying her."
Satsuki shrugged.
"Her parents were there yesterday morning. Sounds like your senior should have been there."
Tora sighed.
"We asked Ms. Toujou to contact us if anything changed. We spoke with her Friday night and she planned on staying in the lobby to watch for Yukari's parents."
Kurumu sighed, wondering what had been going on in Rubi's head.
"Rubi left this morning with Yukari."
Tora sighed, relaxing her shoulders.
"I guess that explains why she was not at the hospital."
"Maybe she forgot?"
"Who knows with that girl. So how was your birthday?"
"We spent most of the day hanging out with the senior boys from the baseball team and a bunch of nekomusume girls. It was kind of fun."
"Baseball team? Were you working on your article?"
"A little."
Tora shook her head with a resigned smile.
"I wish you would have told me about Yukari's parents."
"Ease off, Nazohashi. It was my birthday and Yukari was not exactly sociable."
"I would have liked to say goodbye."
Kurumu smiled.
"She'll be back."
Satsuki draped an arm over Nerume's shoulder, tugging the girl closer.
"Yea, well. Nerume and I should get going. She moves slow and we've kept Kakeru waiting long enough."
"I hate you saying I'm slow."
"Would you prefer acceleration challenged?"
Nerume sighed as she struggled to free herself of Satsuki and start moving.
"Be safe, Ms. Nazohashi. Bye, Ms. Dangai."
Kurumu smiled as her two friends slowly made their way down the trail. After a notable pause, Tora grabbed her firmly by the hand and started off into the woods.
"Where are we going?"
"Could you fly to the field, Ms. Dangai?"
"Maybe. Might want to get a different shirt."
"Go ahead then. I see no reason to walk to the field with Kurumu. We shall meet you at the hospital."
"Sure thing."
Kurumu frowned as Dangai walked back through the woods to the path. She had to quicken her step as Tora pushed through the woods at a brisker pace just shy of a jog.
"What's in the field?"
"We had no idea where you would be. Ms. Tobuyoku took Ms. Hanetsume with her to check at the church and the field. She said she would stay in the field in case you came looking for us there."
"Oh. I'm sorry."
"You should be. When Ms. Tobuyoku met me at the church, she was worried that you had not shown up for breakfast. We all went to the hospital, hoping you had returned."
"You went to church?"
"Of course I did. Faith is not a fair weather practice. In difficult times, faith can make all the difference."
Kurumu smirked. In her experience, difficult times prompted her to be angry with whatever divine beings that supposedly existed for allowing such garbage to happen. Even if she deserved to never have a child, what reason was there to punish Yukari or Nerume?
"Was Moka there?"
"She was not."
Kurumu nodded. She worried what Moka was up to.
"Have you spoken with her? Is she okay?"
"After leaving the hospital, Ginei and I visited her Friday night and we had dinner together."
"Nerume didn't say anything about Ginei visiting me in the hospital."
"He didn't go up to your room. Rubi told us about your… injury. I'm… sorry. I know you had so much hope for a child."
Kurumu forced a laugh.
"It's nothing. Everyone kept saying I was too young anyways."
They finally came out of the woods onto an actual trail. They had taken a shortcut to bypass the dining hall and were now on the main path to the school.
"How was Moka doing?"
"Quiet. Detached. I had to do most of the talking since Ginei walked out halfway through it."
"Why?"
Tora paused, letting go of Kurumu's hand.
"Because I asked if Moka needed to be tested. I think that was too much for Ginei."
Kurumu hesitated. Having seen Yukari's memory, she wondered if she should mention it.
"I don't think they did anything to Moka."
"She said as much, but Ms. Unari is right. If they did that to Yukari, it's hard to believe they would not do anything to Moka. Whether she likes it or not, she should be tested."
"I know they didn't."
Tora forced a smile before resuming their walk.
"Hopefully you haven't said much about Yukari's condition to others. The official record states Yukari was beaten violently almost to the point of death, similar to Ms. Genzouyaki."
Kurumu knew she had not bragged about Yukari's fate to anyone. Her reticence to answer inquiries on Yukari had encouraged Nerume and Satsuki to do the same.
"So who does know the truth about Yukari?"
"The six of us that were in the room. Several hospital staff members. Maybe some faculty. I imagine Yukari's parents have been informed."
Kurumu nodded, aware that they had been.
"Is that it? Kana doesn't know?"
"She doesn't, nor does most of the PSC or student council. Of course Mr. Sabaku and Mr. Kitajima both know since they saw her. And Ginei."
"How is Ginei doing?"
Tora slowed her step, glancing over her shoulder.
"Ginei has taken this whole thing really hard. For some reason, I never thought he would cry."
Kurumu forced a smile, wondering why Tora had ever thought that. Kurumu had seen a serious side of Ginei whom was not all flirts and jokes. He was not immune to sadness.
"The Headmaster wants us to find a guy named Fusamina. He's the leader of the skating club."
"I thought the entire skating club was wiped out."
Kurumu sighed.
"I guess Rubi didn't tell you. The Headmaster said if we capture this guy, Tsukune and Moka might avoid being expelled."
Tora pondered this for a moment before resuming her brisk pace.
"Being expelled might be what is safest for those two."
"I know that, but we still have to try. Beside, I need to talk to Tokori anyways. Her mother works at the hospital and I don't know if that is safe."
"You mentioned the hospital wasn't safe for Ms. Genzouyaki."
"Yea. I peeked into Yukari's mind this morning."
"What does that mean?"
"Yukari was still unresponsive when her parents took her to the car this morning. That creepy bus driver asked me to help Yukari the same way I did Tsukune."
Tora's brow perked up.
"Did you succeed?"
"She's awake but doesn't remember anything after her abduction."
"Really? I suppose that's fortunate."
"Well… I… yea. She's awake. Her parents insisted that she leave the school for now until they feel comfortable with sending her back."
"What's wrong?"
Kurumu mulled over what she should reveal.
"I saw Yukari's memories from that time. I know the elder Sumita boy raped her and that they were not planning to do anything to Moka until after bringing Tsukune. They wanted him to see it."
Tora grimaced.
"That's… I don't know. I guess that's good news. I believe you, Kurumu."
"Yea. I also know Yukari was being controlled when she killed those three boys at the hospital."
"Controlled? How?"
"Yakumaru Mako."
"The nurse friend of Ms. Meirowasa? But why?"
Kurumu shook her head.
"I don't know. I think she's caught in the middle of something and feels that was the only way to protect Tokori's family. You know that boy Tokori went to visit with Koike. I found out from Yakumaru that his whole family was killed."
Tora's eyes widened as she stopped in her tracks.
"What? We were not told that. Mr. Koike only admitted that the boy was dead."
"If we can convince Tokori to help us bring Yakumaru in, we might be able to get the answers the Headmaster wants even if we can't find Fusamina."
Tora nodded, regarding the ground.
"This will be difficult. I have a feeling Ms. Meirowasa will refuse to believe her friend is involved."
"Maybe, but I don't know how we can protect anyone by keeping her in the dark."
Tora nodded, stalking off.
"I think we may have to send the Tengu girls home when we meet up with Ginei at the hospital."
"Yea. That's probably a good idea."
"Ms. Honda is with him, so we can let her know we have serious business with Ginei and won't be able to stay long."
Kurumu smirked at the thought of how that was going. If Ginei was in the right mood, he would have that poor girl flustered. She hoped he behaved himself as she disliked the thought of Honda quitting the club out of concern for her safety.
"Hey. I know this is going to be off topic, but… have you seen Mizore?"
Kurumu mewled softly from the gentle touch pushing across her temple through her short locks. Lying on her side with a warm body pressed against her back, she turned her head into the caress. Her eyelids fluttered open and a blurry figure hovering over her came into focus. She smiled up at Tsukune, amused as his eyes glanced aside.
"Hey."
She could hear the soft purr from Tora when the girl exhaled. The Headmaster had invited them to join him in Tsukune's room for the night after dinner. While Kurumu had opted to sleep in her clothes from this morning, Tora had changed into a long shirt Ginei had picked out for her. It was a white shirt with the three words Faith, Hope and Love written down the center. There were several other shirts in the hospital gift shop which had similar inspirational phrases.
"I didn't realize that would wake you."
Kurumu grinned at his sheepish withdrawal. The hospital gown clung loosely about his torso as he rubbed the back of his head. A lock with a cross design dangled from a chain about his right wrist.
"Are you saying I could sleep without noticing your touch?"
This felt different. Her heart longed for him but something was missing. She could feel the softness of his restrained desire. He was nervous and embarrassed.
"Well… you have before."
She wondered if that was true. If he meant any of the times they had slept together, that could be possible. Deciding not to pry, she smiled.
"What time is it?"
Tsukune laughed shaking his head.
"I don't even know what day it is."
By the time Kurumu had arrived at the hospital with Tora all the Tengu girls had been waiting with Ginei. Any plans of ditching the girls had been quickly dismissed by Ginei. He refused to discuss the situation, insisting on carrying on with the day as if nothing was wrong. He merely understood that they wanted to meet up with Tokori after work and had to kill some time. He treated them all to the arcade.
They parted ways with the Tengu girls shortly after Tokori got off work. Tobuyoku had been fired up about meeting Tokori's mother, but Tokori had pleaded for the girls to pass on tonight. She had not warned her mother about having so many guests over and Tokori's mother often was in the process of making dinner when Tokori got home after her weekend shifts. As most of the girls cared little one way or another, they agreed to call it a day.
After parting with the Tengu girls, Kurumu had explained her concerns about Yakumaru on the walk to Tokori's home. Tokori was defensive at first, but Kurumu had insisted with her belief that Yakumaru was being pressured into this and needed their help. Yielding to her sincerity, Tokori had invited them to dinner on the condition that they allow her to handle the talking.
Anxious about the confrontation, they had been sorely disappointed to find Tokori's mother preparing dinner on her own. Tokori was slightly surprised too, since Yakumaru had not helped yesterday either. It was unusual for their friend to miss both weekend dinners. Worried, Tokori gave up Yakumaru's address to Ginei so that he could check up on her apartment.
Within an hour Ginei returned with news of Yakumaru's place being trashed. Someone had broken the door down and destroyed almost everything of value. Her neighbors had not seen her all weekend.
Tokori had fallen apart. Ginei had tried to comfort the girl with reassurances that it did not mean Yakumaru was dead to no avail. Her mother took the matter more calmly, asking Kurumu for the key to her suite. She instructed her kids to pack their most important belongings and that they would spend the night at Kurumu's suite until things settled down. Ginei offered to accompany them and presumably did so after leaving Tora and Kurumu in the hospital. Tokori had been so worked up over Yakumaru that Kurumu had not felt comfortable mentioning Fusamina, figuring she could pass that information on to Ginei tomorrow.
It had been around seven when they checked back in at the hospital. The staff had been annoyed with Kurumu over her escape and were certain she had something to do with Nerume's absence. Profusely apologizing and promising to help bring Nerume back after her official release, Kurumu had almost been readmitted when the Headmaster had intervened.
Kurumu breathed deeply, feeling an arm tighten about her waist. She let her hand drift to Tora's wrist, smiling softly as Tsukune turned to regard the far corner of the room. The familiar hooded figure lurked in the shadows.
"If it's before midnight, it should still be Sunday."
"Sunday? Has it really been that long?"
The Headmaster chuckled darkly.
"It has, Mr. Aono. A lot has been done to bring you back to yourself."
Kurumu sighed, slipping her hand out from beneath the thin sheet and drawing it back. She swung her legs off to the side of the bed as she shifted into a seated position. Tora groaned softly, rolling on her back as she purred out a long breath.
Tsukune chuckled nervously, glancing aside.
"Do girls always sleep without panties?"
Kurumu frowned, glancing down to confirm she was still wearing her gray shorts. She glanced over her shoulder at Tora, noting the shirt had ridden up past the girl's waist and the sheet failed to hide her tanned hip. Tugging the sheet in place, Kurumu looked up at Tsukune.
"I often do."
"Oh. Right. I guess that's a good thing."
He was interested in her. She could feel it, but different. He was in the presence of others. That had to be why it felt different. Or maybe not. Maybe he felt the same, but her response was different. She shook her head.
"Kurumu?"
He stepped in closer, his hand brushing the side of her cheek with fingers touching her ear. She glanced up reflexively, but cast her gaze aside the moment she saw his rich brown eyes.
She tensed up as his other hand reached around behind her while his other hand slipped to the back of her head. He tugged firmly, encouraging her off the bed and into his arms. Confused and worried, she struggled over if she should resist or yield. She could not even decide if this was a desire in her mind that she was forcing him to fulfill.
He tugged her head aside, her face pressed to his shoulder. She felt his hot breath upon her neck as his other arm pulled her in tight. She timidly touched his waist as she wondered if this would be okay. Surely the Headmaster would not care. His heart beat so rapidly, even faster than hers. It was like it could burst out of his chest at any moment.
"Mr. Aono."
She felt a familiar sugary sensation. There was a briskness to it that she had not realized before.
"Restrain yourself, Mr. Aono."
She felt his grip relax as his breath pulled away.
"Sorry. I felt…"
"Drawn. Her blood is familiar to yours. I believe Ms. Akashiya has taken some blood from Ms. Kurono. A trace of her is now part of you."
Tsukune released her, taking back a step. With a frown, he turned to regard the Headmaster.
"I don't understand."
"You are less human than before, Mr. Aono. In truth, you are more vampire than human."
Tsukune clutched his chest, glancing away.
"How much of my dream was real?"
The Headmaster chuckled.
"That is impossible for me to say. I have no idea what nightmare you have been struggling with today."
Kurumu grimaced, aware of Tsukune's condition when they had turned in for the night. His features had been twisted in pain.
"Perhaps you remember Ms. Akashiya being forced to kill you."
"That's silly. I don't see how she could fail to do that if she wanted to."
Kurumu sighed.
"She didn't want to. She was forced to because you killed all those boys."
Tsukune's eyes widened. He shook his head slowly.
"That's not possible. I couldn't."
Mizore slipped out of the shadows from behind the Headmaster. Her hands were thrust in the opposing ends of the center pocket. Her head was cocked aside as she approached Tsukune.
"You don't remember?"
"Mizore?"
"Where have you been?"
The Headmaster laughed as Mizore regarded her with a nonchalant shrug.
"Ms. Shirayuki has been in my company since she returned to the hospital on Friday."
"Friday?"
She could feel the grin beneath the shadows of the cowl.
"I pride myself in masking her presence from Mrs. Shuzen."
Kurumu worked her mind around that. While that did explain why nobody had seen the girl all weekend, it confused her as to why the Headmaster had been so generous.
"I'm glad you're okay, but why are you here?"
"I'm keeping an eye on Aono."
Tsukune let out a heavy sigh, running both his hands through his hair.
"Hold on. What is going on? What don't I remember?"
Kurumu shared a glance with Mizore. As much as she wanted to answer him, she was confused about a few things herself.
"What do you remember?"
Tsukune frowned at Mizore's inquiry. He paused with a thoughtful expression. A loud yawn announced Tora's growing awareness to the conversation.
"I remember Midou escorting us to where he had Moka. She was chained to a ladder behind an old sofa. She was telling me to run away when Midou tried to sucker punch me."
He winced.
"But Ms. Genzouyaki pushed me aside and got hit instead. I froze up. They started to beat on her so I did the only thing I could think of. I ran around them to take Moka's rosary off. I figured she could save her."
Mizore cocked her head aside.
"You should have let her."
Noting his reaction, Kurumu frowned.
"What are you saying?"
Tsukune sighed.
"I had to help her. When they turned on the water, she was-"
"Still stronger than a human. Did you want to die with her?"
Tsukune's eyes went wide. He shook his head.
"No. That's not-"
"Oh, Tsukune's awake."
Tora covered a yawn as she slipped off the bed onto her bare feet. The hem of her shirt hung loosely about her thighs as she took heavy steps over to Kurumu's side.
"When did Ms. Shirayuki get here?"
"Apparently she has been in the hospital wall weekend."
Tora nodded, lowering her hand. She lifted the other to offer Tsukune a wave.
"I'd hug you but I think neither of us are appropriately dressed."
The Headmaster chuckled.
"I think the important thing to share with Mr. Aono is his pending expulsion."
"My what?!"
Kurumu sighed.
"I wasn't there, Tsukune, but at some point you got hurt. Moka had to give you blood and then you lost control of yourself."
"I take it this means he has no memory of the event. Well… the quick summary is that you turned into a ghoul and killed the boys responsible for kidnapping Moka."
Kurumu nodded, forcing a smile.
"They are calling for both Moka and you to be expelled."
"Moka should be expelled. She took everything away from Kurumu."
Kurumu shook her head as Tsukune frowned at Mizore.
"What happened to Kurumu?"
"It's nothing. I tried to stand in Moka's way and was hurt because of it."
"Moka hurt you?"
Kurumu threw a warning look at Mizore.
"It was nothing, Tsukune. Just a minor injury. I've been hanging out with friends all weekend."
Tsukune nodded, chuckling after a pause.
"That's right. Monsters do heal much faster than humans."
There was a pause as they all regarded each other. Tora smiled, leaning against Kurumu and slipping an arm about her waist.
"I feel we should also let you know that Yukari has recovered and went home with her parents."
Both Mizore and Tsukune tensed up.
"She's gone?"
"Do we know when she will be back?"
Kurumu shook her head at their questions. Mizore bowed her head as Tsukune managed a smile.
"I knew she was hurt but it all happened fast. I was more worried about helping Moka since I knew I couldn't save any of them without her."
Mizore cocked her head.
"Oh. I see. I'm sorry."
"Why?"
"For a moment, I thought it was pride."
Tsukune laughed, glancing down.
"I'd be lying if I said my pride wasn't hurt a little. The other Moka can be rather harsh with her words."
"It did happen fast. I should have done more."
"No reason for either of you to dwell on the past."
Tsukune nodded at Tora.
"How is Nerume?"
Kurumu chuckled.
"I smuggled her out of here yesterday so she's staying with Satsuki."
"Smuggled? Why?"
Tora sighed dramatically, detaching from Kurumu's side.
"Yes. This would be present concerns. There seems to be someone tying up loose ends."
"Does this mean you have a lead on the task I assigned you, Ms. Kurono?"
She scowled at the Headmaster, crossing her arms about her chest.
"No. I haven't been able to talk with anybody about Fusamina. This is a different issue."
The Headmaster laughed, drifting from the corner towards them.
"I would advise you to work more diligently on this matter. Time is not your ally, Ms. Kurono."
"Who is Fusamina?"
"Don't worry about it, Mizore. I think leaving you with watching Tsukune is helpful enough."
Mizore shrugged indifferently as Tsukune sighed.
"Does this mean I'm not supposed to be doing anything to help?"
"We don't even know when you will be allowed to leave the hospital."
"That could be as early as tomorrow."
Kurumu frowned at the Headmaster.
"Now that he has regained consciousness, I doubt there will be any reason for him to remain here."
"That might be true, but I think Tsukune needs to avoid any circumstances that threaten that lock you put upon him."
Tsukune frowned, raising his right arm to regard the dangling cross.
"I assume you mean this thing. He only said I should avoid touching it."
"And you should. I said before that you are more vampire than human now. That lock is the only thing keeping you human."
Kurumu sidled up next to him, taking his right hand in both of hers. She smiled up at him with her head tilted. She noticed his eyes once again, glancing away before any thought might surface.
"You are aware that Moka's seal is the same. You have to be cautious. This lock will come apart as easily as her rosary."
"But you can reseal him?"
Kurumu frowned at Mizore, whom was regarding the Headmaster.
"If he emerges as a ghoul, you can place the seal on him again."
The Headmaster chuckled, drifting closer to Mizore.
"That may be possible. If we can subdue him with holy powers again, it will provide an opening to repair the broken seal."
"But Mr. Sabaku is the only person we know with such powers."
"There are others, Ms. Nazohashi. But I think it best we avoid any unnecessary tests, Ms. Shirayuki."
Mizore regarded Tsukune.
"I want to know if her blood fixed him."
"Blood?"
Kurumu smiled.
"Mrs. Shuzen was called in to help stabilize your condition. You received blood from Moka's little sister."
The Headmaster chuckled.
"And since you did not die, I suspect you have a reasonable chance to emerge a true vampire. It is more a matter of how you respond to her test."
"Test?"
Kurumu reached up to caress his cheek as she continued to hold his hand.
"It's nothing to worry about. Mizore will be watching over you."
He drew back, grabbing her by the wrist. The strength of his grip was surprising as he tugged her forward. He turned her wrist over, glancing down in a daze. It felt like he wanted to kiss her wrist.
"Tsukune?"
"Mr. Aono."
Tsukune let her go, turning his attention upon the Headmaster.
"It calls to you, doesn't it?"
Tsukune shook his head, forcing a smile as he let his hand rest at his side. Mirroring his smile, Kurumu let her hand join the one holding his right.
"Is there something wrong?"
"No. I'm just feeling… odd."
The Headmaster snickered conspiratorially. He placed a hand firmly on Mizore's shoulder.
"Ms. Shirayuki. May I see your hand?"
Mizore glanced over her shoulder at the tall, robed figure. She withdrew both hands from the center pocket, touching the white stick nestled in the crook of her mouth with one finger while holding up her left hand to the man.
"Let us test something."
Mizore flinched as a blur swiped across her hand. She cringed, gripping her wrist as the hand she had presented dripped with blood.
"Quickly now. Present your hand to Mr. Aono."
"Headmaster?"
"Blood is the source of power to a vampire, Ms. Nazohashi."
Kurumu frowned as Mizore approached them. Mizore favored her with an innocent look before holding her bleeding palm out to a confused Tsukune.
"What are you expecting from me?"
"He is not a vampire. You have a seal on him so that he remains human."
The Headmaster turned to Tora.
"The seal restrains his power but it does not change what he is. He may need different blood for his body to establish a true equilibrium."
Mizore turned about, letting her wrist go.
"What is he supposed to do? Lick my palm?"
The Headmaster chuckled, shaking his robed head.
"No, my child. A vampire does not digest blood. They take blood into their body, siphoning it through their fangs. It becomes part of them."
"So… you want him to bite my palm?"
"I'm not a vampire."
"And yet you have felt the urge to sink your teeth into Ms. Kurono twice."
Tsukune shook his head as Kurumu felt a shiver crawl down her spine.
"No. That's not it."
"Because you are drawn to her. Because her blood is familiar. Comfortable. You're also hungry so your mind is confused over what it needs."
Mizore regarded her with concern. Turning about, she thrust her palm close to Tsukune's face.
"You can take mine. Kurumu is still hurt."
"I don't need your blood, Mizore. This is crazy."
"Mr. Aono. It would be quite troublesome for us if you remove that lock and emerge a ghoul. Please indulge my theory that the blood of others will increase your chances of remaining stable."
Tsukune shook his head, yanking his hand free of Kurumu's grip and backing away from Mizore.
"I don't even know what you're asking of me. I'm not going to bite her hand."
"I've already broken her skin. All you must do is press your fangs against the blood and inhale. Your body will naturally do the rest."
Kurumu frowned as Mizore pushed closer to Tsukune, holding her hand aloft.
"Why her?"
"Because your blood belongs to someone else and I doubt Ms. Nazohashi would be so willing."
Tsukune sighed, touching Mizore's bleeding hand. He managed a smile.
"Odd. It feels warmer."
Mizore blushed, glancing aside as she pushed her palm closer.
"Just take it."
He sighed again, opening his mouth as he lowered his teeth to her palm. It looked awkward. It felt awkward. Neither looked at each other. His breath came out in small clouds as he tried to push his face against her palm.
"I also felt it best to pick someone his blood was not tied to. He will naturally have more restraint."
Kurumu frowned as she contemplated Tsukune's emergence as a vampire.
"If Tsukune has traces of my blood… does that mean he is immune to my charm?"
The Headmaster chuckled.
"No. Not yet. But as he matures as a vampire, he will start to adapt to the blood he takes in. He will be the same as any other vampire."
"So he shall become immune to Ms. Shirayuki's temperature?"
"Yes. He could even become immune to Ms. Kurono's kiss."
Kurumu's heart skipped a beat. She quickly stepped up next to Mizore, placing a hand on the small of her back while touching his waist.
"Is it working?"
Tsukune lifted his head back, blood smeared across his lips.
"Only if the goal is to make me as uncomfortable as possible."
"Do you feel better, Mr. Aono?"
He shrugged with visible exasperation.
"I have no idea what you're expecting me to feel. This whole thing is weird."
The Headmaster chuckled, relaxing back on his heels.
"No urges to sink your teeth in Ms. Kurono?
"I think I've been embarrassed enough to restrain myself."
The Headmaster lifted his hands and laughed.
"In that case, I shall leave you. I trust these young ladies shall keep you company till you are discharged."
Kurumu frowned as the Headmaster started for the door.
"Is that all?"
"There is nothing else for us to discuss, Ms. Kurono. Find Fusamina and bring him to me. Then we can talk about making these demands for the expulsion of your friends disappear."
Kurumu sighed as the Headmaster slipped out into the hallway, the door closing behind him. She absently rubbed Tsukune's side before turning her attention back to him. Mizore was slashing her palm open again with an icicle finger.
"You probably need more."
"I'm okay."
Mizore thrust her dripping palm back to him.
"You haven't eaten in days."
Tsukune placed his hand in hers, notably shivering as he squeezed her hand.
"It's not food. You don't need to hurt yourself for my sake."
"This doesn't hurt, Aono. Not by comparison."
"Thank you, Mizore. For watching over me. If you're okay with it, you can call me Tsukune."
Mizore tensed up. Shaking her head she pulled away and thrust her hands into her pocket, her blood quickly staining through the fabric. Stalking off to the shadowy corner, she slumped heavily into an armchair barely visible in the darkness.
"Mizore?"
"Leave her be, Tsukune. I'm sure Ms. Shirayuki appreciates your offer."
Tsukune sighed, placing a hand on top of Kurumu's head. Smiling, she leaned up against him as she wrapped her arms about his torso. Taking in a deep breath, she relaxed against him.
"So… Yukari has gone home and the three of you are here. Where's Moka?"
"Moka is staying with Ms. Nekonome until something is decided."
"I thought Rubi was staying with Ms. Nekonome."
"Rubi left with Yukari, Tsukune."
Kurumu smiled at the prompt answers Tora was providing, allowing her to hold Tsukune. Her enjoyment was forced to an end when he pushed gently on her shoulders for some space.
"You mentioned Nerume was staying with Ms. Unari."
She sighed, relaxing her grip.
"I sneaked out of the hospital with her on Satsuki's birthday."
"Oh. Oh! That was this weekend. Oh. I'm so sorry."
Kurumu smirked up at him. She glanced aside before meeting his nervous gaze.
"You weren't going to be invited anyways. You know how Satsuki is."
Tora grabbed Kurumu by the forearm, tugging her away from Tsukune.
"You can congratulate Ms. Unari when you see her. For now we shall be going back to bed."
Tsukune looked Tora over before regarding Kurumu.
"Bed?"
Kurumu smiled softly, releasing him. She staggered back a step under Tora's strength.
"It is late at night."
"But I don't feel the least bit tired."
Tora yawned, regarding the bed they had vacated. Kurumu barely resisted the reflex to yawn.
"I don't know about Kurumu, but I'm exhausted. It's been a long day for us."
"Maybe we could play cards or something?"
Kurumu smiled, letting Tora lead her back to the bed.
"What about you, Mizore? Will you play cards with Tsukune?"
"I haven't slept in days."
Kurumu frowned as she stumbled the last few steps to their bed. Tora released her to crawl back up on the bed beneath the sheet. Kurumu waved off Tora's gestures, smiling at Tsukune whom had followed after them like a puppy.
"Are you saying you haven't slept since you came to watch over Tsukune?"
"Nodded off an hour here and there. Hard to sleep with that guy in the room."
"You should sleep, Ms. Shirayuki. I'm sure Tsukune won't mind if you sleep in his bed."
A loud sigh answered.
"I want a shower and new clothes."
Tora laughed, shaking her head.
"You silly girl. Come morning, I shall take you home and we can freshen you up before coming back."
"Coming back? Don't you guys have school tomorrow?"
Tora smiled softly at him.
"I would say attendance is the least of our problems. Now Kurumu is going to sleep with me and there won't be any room for you. I don't want to be disturbed by any attempts to crawl on top of her."
Kurumu smirked as Tsukune made unintelligible protests.
"I don't think I'm dressed for fooling around like you are, Tora."
Tora pouted, which was remarkably cute as Kurumu had never seen the girl make such an expression.
"If I had known he would wake up, I would have worn panties."
"But then you wouldn't have been able to tease Ginei."
Tora huffed, rolling her eyes.
"Oh please. Handing him my dirty clothes is hardly teasing."
Tsukune laughed, nervously rubbing the back of his head.
"Did the two of you start dating while I was out?"
Tora blushed fiercely. She patted the spot beside her.
"I have no intention of asking that dog out. Now I suggest using the call button to summon a nurse. They should be able to bring you some medication to help you sleep."
He sighed as Kurumu turned about to sit on the bed. She cocked her head and closed her eyes.
"You can kiss me before I sleep."
His hands touched her shoulders and she felt him step in close. Expecting a kiss on the forehead, she turned her head up slightly. She whimpered in surprise as she felt his lips touch hers. She gripped the edge of the bed tightly, refusing to open her eyes as the kiss lingered.
Cautious. So cautious and sweet.