Kurumu placed her breakfast tray across the table from Tora. Seated on the sphinx's right, Deshi seized up a wad of omelet to stow away in her mouth. Both girls wore the sleeveless PSC jackets with the toggles in the front. Kurumu settled in, favoring Tora a smile.
Satsuki stepped over the black bench, putting her tray and drink down. She had rolled the sleeves of her blouse back to her elbows, buttoning the cuffs to prevent slipping. Satsuki had no idea if her attire would be acceptable, but had no desire to wear the PSC jacket without an undershirt.
"You're up early, Ms. Unari."
"We turned in early. This girl can't stay awake if you force her to study."
Kurumu grinned. She had deliberately turned in after two hours of melting her brains with English. She had argued turning in by ten was normal considering Moka could barely remain conscious after eight.
An unintended benefit of spending the night was a donation to the lost cause of keeping a full week of school uniforms. Satsuki promised to let her keep this blouse after hearing Kurumu's woes. Everything else Kurumu had on was from yesterday, which made her feel dirty despite showering this morning. She doubted anyone would notice but she hated wearing panties twice without washing.
"So how is Ms. Genzouyaki?"
Satsuki smirked after swallowing down her first mouthful.
"That little brat is fine. Morioka offered to carry her tiny butt over to the hospital for us after dinner. She's stubborn about accepting help, but seems to not mind if it's from a guy."
Tora blushed, absently picking at what little remained of her meal.
"Well… Ginei can be charming."
"He's a flirt, but nothing special. He spent more time chatting with Goto than us."
Tora frowned.
"I don't recall a Goto. Is he a friend of Ginei?"
Kurumu laughed.
"No. Goto Tama. She's Kakeru's junior high friend."
Tora's jade eyes lit up as she turned to Satsuki.
"This would be the other tall girl you mentioned as a friend to Ms. Genzouyaki."
"Yea, the weird fashion girl from class eleven."
"Why was Ginei interested in her?"
Satsuki shrugged.
"Probably because she plays along. I've noticed Kakeru clams up from any sort of attention. Even from Nerume. And Nerume has always been shy around people she doesn't know too well."
Kurumu smiled, vaguely aware of the dinner conversation. She had been more engaged with Kana and Satsuki, letting Ginei do his own thing with the other girls.
"I should mention that Moka was not in the dorms. We were told by the Housemother that Moka spent the day moving her things out of her room."
Deshi smirked, setting her chopsticks down on her empty tray.
"No good. Where she go?"
Kurumu shrugged.
"Probably to the suites. Moka had to turn in her keys and card to the Housemother by five."
"Her card too?"
"I had to return mine when they moved me to the suites to get one with access to the commissaries."
Deshi crossed her arm over her black tunic, lifting a hand up to tap her cheek.
"Wonder if I should move."
Kurumu smirked, gesturing at Deshi with her chopsticks.
"I heard your identity is fake."
"What is truth?"
Satsuki sighed, grabbing up another portion of food.
"It's too early for her games."
"I'm curious. What will you do if Moka is expelled?"
Deshi smiled, her eyes opening slightly to regard Tora.
"I follow."
Tora frowned, lifting her drink to take a sip.
"Are you able to follow?"
Deshi grinned, touching her finger to her lips.
"That secret."
Kurumu had figured the mischievous girl would not yield her agenda. She regarded her meal, unsure if she wanted to finish it. Grabbing her can of yuzu juice, Kurumu took a swig.
"Are you inclined to help us avoid being expelled?"
Deshi leaned over to pick up her staff from the floor. Planting the end, the girl swung her legs over the bench to stand up in a twirl. She flipped up the staff, swinging it about to rest behind her shoulders.
"I like here. Prefer to stay."
Realizing that Tora was practically finished, Kurumu decided to get up. She could drink as they walked and dispose of the can later. Tora drained the rest of her can as Satsuki frowned.
"Are we in a hurry?"
"I'm not that hungry."
Satsuki regarded her meal, indecisive.
"If I was going to eat on the go, I would have grabbed a muffin."
Kurumu chuckled, taking a drink as Tora got up. She stretched her hands up behind her head as she glanced about the breakfast hall which was filling up with more students. Lifting her can to take another swallow, she placed her free hand on Satsuki's shoulder.
"Did you guys get more than one uniform for the PSC?"
"Given one. Buy more if want."
Tora smiled, touching her shoulder at the hemline. Her arms were the same hue all the way up.
"I bought an additional one."
"Don't they get dirty?"
"No more than green jacket."
"Do you even own a green jacket?"
"Have one."
Kurumu smiled, aware that this girl had been braless when swapping jackets with Satsuki last week. She recalled the scars that had lined the foreigner's back. Pushing that memory aside, she tousled Satsuki's sienna locks.
"I was going to have lunch with the baseball team today. Do either of you want to help me get some interviews done?"
"I shall pass on that. I want to discuss with Mr. Koike about writing an article over our incident."
"Why didn't you ask that yesterday?"
"I wasn't sure if I should bother."
Kurumu supposed that was fair with how uncertain their future was.
"What about you, Satsuki?"
"I don't know if it would be wise for her to miss another lunch with the PSC."
After putting down another mouthful, Satsuki waved dismissively.
"Depends on what you expect me to do."
Kurumu smirked, aware that Satsuki disliked interviewing the okami soccer boys. She patted her schoolbag which contained the loose sheets and notebook with her other interviews.
"Mostly go over my notes and fill in any blanks I might have missed with the seniors. You met them."
Satsuki made a displeased face. Shrugging, she put down another mouthful.
"Sure. I can do that."
"I suppose I can tell Mr. Koike that she had other commitments."
Satsuki nodded as she polished off the last of her main course. Taking a swig of her drink, she got free of the bench. Emptying her own can, Kurumu left it next to the tray before they started for the door.
"Do you think you could have us bypass the lunch line with your PSC privileges?"
Satsuki smirked as Deshi opened the door for them. She raised her drink for another swallow.
"I'll let Nazohashi make that call."
Kurumu looked to Tora as they walked outside. The sphinx sighed, shaking her head. Touching her braid above her ear, she started a brisk pace for the trail that would take them to school. Unsure if that was approval or not, Kurumu kept pace with Satsuki while Deshi trailed slightly behind.
"So… have you confirmed your summer plans with Nerume?"
"Kakeru has to ask her parents, but she's worried."
"About what?"
Satsuki sighed.
"Well… Nerume doesn't want her parents to find out, but that's not going to be possible. We live so close to Shoudo Academy. I think Goto is right. She's going to get transferred."
Tora slowed a step to glance over her shoulder.
"That would be a reasonable thing to do. What about you, Ms. Unari?"
"Me?"
"Will you transfer as well?"
Satsuki waved her hand dismissively.
"I didn't come here for Nerume. She was here for me. Can't say what the other two will do."
Kurumu clutched the strap of her schoolbag as she let that thought linger.
"But Kakeru just started dating."
Satsuki laughed as Deshi came up to walk alongside her.
"Don't be stupid, Kurumu. I'll admit, that Kitamori guy was okay, but there are other Kirin guys back where I came from. Kakeru could find someone else."
Kurumu's thoughts wandered over what little she knew about Nerume's past. She honestly could not remember the names, but she knew Satsuki had not been the only reason for Nerume to come here. Satsuki had been the excuse.
"Will she be okay going to the same school where her former best friend is dating her first crush?"
Satsuki was hesitant to respond. They walked a solid minute in silence before she shrugged.
"She'll get over it."
"Could you go back there?"
Satsuki snorted.
"We have completely different issues."
Kurumu sighed, unsure what Satsuki's issue had been. The girl simplified it as not wanting to live with her parents anymore because of her brother, but Kurumu worried it had to do with Satsuki's loss of virginity. After another long pause, she forced a smile.
"I guess I shouldn't worry over if you all will transfer out when I'm about to be expelled."
"It does seem silly, right?"
They both chuckled as Tora slowed enough to walk on Kurumu's left. With the four of them walking abreast, they almost took up the entire path.
"Not really. Losing Ms. Genzouyaki and Ms. Shirayuki means I should consider letting the club disband. I know this means so much to Ginei, but I don't see the point in forcing everyone to work so hard."
"But Tobuyoku said she would join if you needed her."
"I think our next paper should be our last."
"Don't say that."
Tora smiled softly.
"I'm sure Ginei will pull some things together so we can put this next one out. After that, I think Kana should consider joining her friend in the manga club while I focus on my duties in the PSC."
Kurumu rolled her eyes.
"Kana has that stalker in the manga club she's trying to avoid."
"It didn't sound that serious. She was able to do Moka's article for her."
"Don't give up on the club, Tora. It really will be dead if you quit."
"I'll see it through to the end of the term. No promises after that."
There was not much said for the rest of the walk to school. Kurumu mulled over her near future, curious how things would play out after the expulsion. She doubted she would become a servant at the Shuzen estate without a fight from her mother which meant she would have to explain the deal she had made. Disappointing her mother was arguably the worst part of this situation, since it felt like she would have a good chance of staying involved with Moka and Tsukune regardless of the expulsion.
She had other random thoughts before arriving at the school. Could vampire blood could cure Nerume? Did Tsukune need more blood from her to become immune to her kiss? Would more blood from her decrease the risk of him becoming a ghoul? Tsukune was tempted by her blood because it was familiar. Did Moka feel tempted by Tsukune because he was her first? Was drinking blood arousing?
Kurumu smiled as Satsuki held the main door open for them. Stepping inside, she wandered over to the aisle where they kept their slippers. She felt heavy, not wanting her high school life to end so soon.
"I'm going to go upstairs and talk with the Headmaster."
Satsuki frowned, taking her slippers out of the cubby.
"What for?"
"I'm curious about Moka and Tokori."
Kurumu retrieved her own slippers, while stepping on the heels of her shoes. She dropped the slippers on the floor, bending over to pick her shoes up.
"Don't you have to schedule an appointment or something?"
Kurumu shrugged as she stowed away her shoes. She effortlessly pushed her feet in her slippers.
"Never have before. I think Kuyo used to watch over his office like a guard dog."
"What's he like?"
Kurumu smiled as Tora and Deshi came over to rejoin them.
"How would you describe the Headmaster?"
Tora glanced aside at Deshi.
"Secretive and mischievous."
Deshi grinned, her eyes opening slightly. She cocked her head aside.
"I good girl."
Kurumu shrugged, starting for the grand staircase. The others followed without comment, ascending to the upper level. Kurumu waved with a glance over her shoulder as she veered around the balcony away from the girls.
"I'll see you later in class."
"Good luck."
It was a short walk to the stairs that would bring her up to the Headmaster's office. She started up them, thinking of what she should say. While she did want to know about Tokori and Moka, she also hoped he might stop playing games and help with Fusamina. As far as she could tell, they were no closer to finding this guy than when she had been first told about him almost a week ago.
So caught up in her thoughts, she bumped into a man on the landing. He growled angrily as she backed up to bow her head in apology. She saw the lower body of two men, one with black slacks that matched his glossy shoes while the other had tan to match his brown loafers.
"I'm so sorry."
"Well if it isn't Ms. Kurono."
The spite in his voice drew her eyes upwards. A soft blue shirt was tucked in those black pants held up by a black, corded leather belt. His textured black tie covered the buttons.
"I advise you to keep your eyes averted."
He seemed an older man with his short, smoky white hair. His complexion was pale but his skin was smooth and without blemish.
"Good morning, Ms. Kurono. What brings you up here?"
She managed a slight smile at the familiar gentleman with the short brown hair on the sides of his balding head. Thin glasses were perched on the nose of Mr. Sawayaka. He wore a gray dress jacket over a white shirt. A green and red checkered tie was tied perfectly at his collar.
"I was hoping to have a word with the Headmaster."
"Don't waste your time, girl. The Headmaster will not succumb to your charms."
Kurumu settled back a step, uncertain what to say.
"I… why were you seeing him?"
"That is none of your business."
"Mr. Saitou is upset that your sentences were not carried out immediately."
Mr. Saitou scowled at the much shorter Mr. Sawayaka.
"It's rubbish. If they wanted to, Mr. Nurari could haul the whole lot of them off to that bitch's home before the lunch hour."
"Careful now. Either you are speaking of the daughter of an influential woman whom could shut down this academy, or you are speaking directly about her."
"You're a coward, Sashiki. You bring shame to your son's memory."
Mr. Saitou pushed her aside as he stomped angrily down the other flight of stairs. Kurumu absently rested her hands on her stomach as she watched him descend. She was lost over how she should feel about the man's harsh words.
"Don't think poorly of him. Mr. Saitou has spent years keeping boys out of trouble with the PSC. It is frustrating for it to end like this."
Kurumu managed a smile.
"So why were you with him?"
"Well… I agree that something could have been done this week. It is strange that the Headmaster feels this injury to the school should remain untreated for so long."
Kurumu's eyes widened.
"Injury? Are you wanting us expelled?"
"I do feel that would be in your best interests. Walk with me."
Mr. Sawayaka gestured up the stairs as he turned and started to ascend. Perplexed, Kurumu only caught up to him by the time he had reached the top. She barely took notice of the familiar, decorative hall beyond the fact that it was empty of other occupants.
"I thought you approved of our club."
"I do and I find these circumstances truly unfortunate. But we can't pretend that nothing happened."
Kurumu shook her head in disbelief as the man walked slowly towards the door to the Headmaster's office at the end of the hall.
"Did you push for Tsukune's execution?"
The man paused. After a short moment, he continued down the hall.
"Yes. The evidence from the investigation left no doubt that Mr. Aono murdered multiple boys from the skating club."
Kurumu scowled.
"How could you be so heartless? Aren't you aware of what those boys did?"
"I am not one of those that investigated this matter. I would no sooner be allowed to be part of that investigation than Mr. Saitou. My daughter is a monstrel."
"But you said-"
"I was asked by the investigators what I felt would be the appropriate punishment. My initial reaction was execution. Once informed of Mr. Aono's true form, I agreed that the responsibility was upon Ms. Akashiya and that they both should be expelled. The punishments leveled against you and Ms. Shirayuki seemed afterthoughts to appease Mr. Saitou."
Kurumu grimaced as they came to a stop in front of the Headmaster's door.
"So the faculty knows."
"Those that were present do. I can only hope that by turning him over to Mrs. Shuzen, she can help Mr. Aono learn to control his bloodlust."
"You're turning him over to her."
"We can't send him back home. The risk of the exposure of our world is too high. Until he can be confirmed as safe, that he won't resort to lethal measures in the face of adversity, it would be in our best interests to keep him away from other humans."
Kurumu sighed, realizing this was exactly what the Headmaster warned her about.
"Would it make a difference if there was someone else that orchestrated this?"
Mr. Sawayaka crossed his arms about his chest.
"You are referring about the incidents caused by Ms. Yakumaru. While Ms. Sasayaki implied that the nurse might have been ordered to tie up loose ends, you would still have to prove such a person exists."
Kurumu paused, wondering if she could reveal information to someone that had called for execution.
"I guess that would be impossible if nobody survived."
"Indeed. That's why it is confusing that the Headmaster has chosen to delay your punishment."
Kurumu sighed, having no idea if this teacher knew about Fusamina or not.
"Did you threaten to resign?"
The man laughed, shaking his head.
"Heavens no. I can't leave this school. My son would never forgive me."
"Mr. Saitou said you shame his memory."
"Mr. Saitou says a lot of harmful things. The conviction he speaks with can be infectious. He does have a handful of teachers willing to resign if justice was not done."
Mr. Sawayaka smiled softly, glancing aside.
"It is always difficult to lose good teachers. Especially those that don't deserve it."
Kurumu felt his sorrow. She wondered if he was upset over the loss of Ms. Kagome. She found it hard to believe anyone would care about Coach Kotsubo's resignation.
"Which teachers were threatening to resign? If you don't mind."
Mr. Sawayaka laughed.
"I know Mr. Midou was respected with the sincerest threat coming from Mr. Fukushima. Mr. Mitani has implied he might stand with Mr. Saitou and Mr. Fukushima, as he has close ties with both of them. I am unsure why Mr. Ikuhata has agreed to resign, possibly convinced to by the others. But I think everyone would agree the loss of Ms. Idatsu would be the worst thing that could happen to the school."
"Ms. Idatsu?"
"Teaches the construction trades elective for the second years. Very amicable woman. Good with her hands and popular with the male students, although that may be due to her rather large… personality."
Kurumu smiled, aware that the man had nervously looked away from her bosom.
"Well… boys love personality."
"Indeed. Ms. Idatsu was hired on as the first monstrel teacher. The only monstrel teacher in any high school, to my knowledge."
Kurumu made a squeak of surprise, which had Mr. Sawayaka chuckle.
"Anyways, I don't know how Mr. Saitou convinced her to join his cause. It's not like other high schools would hire her. I was worried I would have to talk her out of such nonsense."
Kurumu nodded, aware how troublesome a resignation by Ms. Idatsu would be. It would be like Tokori leaving the PSC.
"I feel I have kept you from your talk with the Headmaster long enough."
Mr. Sawayaka nodded to her.
"I wish you well, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu smiled, watching the man depart. Although she disliked that he had called for Tsukune's execution, he had not betrayed any animosity and had not felt the need to withhold information. Once the top of his bald head descended out of view, Kurumu regarded the door well aware that she would be lucky if the Headmaster treated her with similar candid discussion.
Taking a steady breath, she knocked on the door.
"Come in, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu drew the door back and walked into the cavernous room. It was as impressive and intimidating as she remembered with the huge windows that overlooked the courtyard. Heavy burgundy curtains flanked these massive sheets of glass, in front of which was an extravagant desk of polished wood and stone. The Headmaster rested comfortably in the opulent cushioned chair facing those across the desk.
The hooded figure was not the only in the room. Two others stood in front of the desk, turned to regard her. One was a slender man of average height, standing with his hands thrust in the pockets of his long, lab coat that hid all but the ends of his gray pants and black loafers. He had faded black hair with flecks of silver on the sides. He regarded her impassively with eyes that were solid white.
The other was a young woman whom was barely taller than Kurumu. She was remarkably thin with her crimson blouse fitting close to her childish body. Her greenish blond tresses were trimmed into a pixie cut with three thin braids stretching down her back to the bottom hem of her tight skirt that hugged high about her thighs. Her slender legs were swathed in black hose while her feet were nestled in tiny black heels. Her ears were pierced with multiple studs up the sides with crimson magatamas dangling from the bottom that nearly touched her narrow shoulders.
"Am I interrupting?"
"No. These two were here because of Mr. Saitou. I delayed their departure for my sake."
Kurumu frowned.
"I don't understand."
"I've been having too many visits from young ladies as of late. I must protect my reputation."
Kurumu rolled her eyes as he chuckled to himself. She wandered over to the group, returning the smile the woman favored her. She had… interesting eyes. It was like looking through a kaleidoscope.
"Allow me to introduce Ms. Kurihara Tsuya, homeroom teacher for third year class three and Mr. Miyanohara Kakushi, third year science teacher. Along with Mr. Yokoyama Koutaku, these are the teachers that handled the investigation."
"I apologize for Mr. Yokoyama. He finds little reason to come to Yokai before the lunch hour. He only teaches the finance elective for the second years."
Kurumu lost her moment of fire at the sound of Ms. Kurihara's soft, soprano voice.
"I was hoping I could speak with you alone."
"There is no need to. These two are fully aware of the deal I have made with you."
Ms. Kurihara picked up a folder from the desk, tucking it against her chest.
"Nasty business, though I do hope Mr. Fusamina is still alive. We will pardon everyone if he can help us put to rest this matter of Antithesis."
Kurumu smiled at a passing thought of Ginei pulling this teacher across his lap for a spanking.
"Can't you provide any sort of assistance?"
Ms. Kurihara glanced over her shoulder at her silent partner. Seeing no response, she walked over to Kurumu, heels clipping the floor. Shifting the folder in her arms, she touched Kurumu's shoulder.
"We can't. Our position must remain neutral."
"It doesn't feel neutral."
Ms. Kurihara smiled, withdrawing her hand.
"Ms. Sasayaki gave us the hospital report on Ms. Sendou. While you may feel that gives justification for these results, we can't ignore the threat Mr. Aono poses to this school."
Kurumu scowled, turning her gaze upon the Headmaster.
"How exactly do you expect me to find someone you don't even know is alive?"
"I think you have many useful talents to find information people are reluctant to give."
Kurumu paused at his words.
"Are you allowing me to use my charm?"
"I would say you have little to lose."
"That is highly inappropriate, Headmaster."
The Headmaster clasped his hands together, leaning forward. His grin was barely visible in the shadows.
"The ends justify the means, Ms. Kurihara. Is it not worth it to end this threat against our school?"
"Beyond your assassination, the goal of Antitheses has not been determined."
"If it was your life they sought, would you feel differently?"
Ms. Kurihara smiled softly.
"I would be confused as to why they would feel I was so important."
Kurumu toyed with the strap of her schoolbag. She had considered resorting to her charm, but that meant spreading word of Fusamina's survival about the school. That could get Fusamina killed if Antitheses was unaware of his survival. She sighed, supposing risking the life of someone that had not bothered to stop Yukari's suffering should not matter to her.
"On the subject of the ladies that have visited you this week, what are your plans for Tokori's family?"
"I find no reason to trouble myself with the woes of Ms. Meirowasa."
"The monstrel girl from the PSC?"
The Headmaster nodded.
"Her family should have friends to turn to. With Ms. Yakumaru disposed of, I believe Antitheses would be foolish to trouble the family further."
"Yes. It would be far too suspicious for an accident to befall Ms. Meirowasa now."
Kurumu scowled.
"So you won't do anything?"
"That would imply that the school is responsible for her plight. There is no reason to assume that."
Kurumu grimaced, realizing she would only be wasting her time to argue with him.
"And what about Moka? I heard you suspended her from school."
"I've moved her to suite 413. She seemed quite troubled by the news. You may wish to visit her soon."
"Of course she would be troubled. You kicked her out and told her we would all be expelled."
"I had no reason to lie to the girl."
"There is also the matter of interference."
Kurumu frowned at Ms. Kurihara.
"I understand a test has been arranged for Mr. Aono to prove his ability to retain control. It was our decision to remove Ms. Akashiya from the equation."
Kurumu paused, recalling Mrs. Shuzen's words about a cleaner.
"That's why you delayed the expulsion."
The Headmaster chuckled.
"Part of the reason. Naturally I do hope you succeed. I would prefer an end to this threat on my life."
"If Mr. Aono passes the test which would confirm his ability to remain in control and your club is able to expose Antitheses, we would have enough reason to rescind our decision for expulsion."
"I do have to wonder if Mr. Aono will emerge a true vampire or a ghoul."
Kurumu shook her head, doubting she would get any useful information. Turning about, she stalked off for the door.
"I hope my holy lock will meet my expectations. I spent so much time making that bauble."
Annoyed, she left the Headmaster to his musings and games.
Kurumu smiled at the woman as she handed over a PSC lunch tray. Wordlessly she followed the other two girls as Satsuki got her tray behind her. Deshi guided the door open with her staff, effortlessly holding her tray with a single finger and her thumb. She grinned back at them with her eyes barely open as she allowed Tora to pass in front of her.
Not much had transpired since this morning. Doubting a bunch of first years would have any knowledge about the Outcasts or Fusamina, Kurumu had kept her talk with her classmates to harmless subjects. She confirmed the rumors about her pending expulsion but promised the remaining newspaper club would continue to put out papers. Kurumu even felt like giving credit to Hazumi's handmaiden theory, clarifying that her service was to Moka's sister which was why she ended up being part of the expulsion deal. That girl was so tickled by the revelation that her ears popped out.
Not really knowing what she expected to learn, she had inquired about the trio of teachers handling the investigation. It was not much. Ichida knew Mr. Yokoyama was the advisor for the chess club and Hineri knew Ms. Kurihara was the Japanese instructor for one of her senior softball players. Nobody had a clue whom Mr. Miyanohara was.
Before heading down for lunch, she had informed Tora and Tsukune about Moka's new home. Agreeing to keep this information within the club, they had parted ways. Tsukune and Mizore both wanted to avoid the cafeteria, so he was picking up a sandwich from the school store. He hoped Bikiyama's group would not mind if they joined them for lunch.
"I'll see you later."
Deshi wagged her staff as she trailed behind Tora in the gym. Kurumu lingered a moment for Satsuki to fall in step with her. They walked steadily across the noisy cafeteria, intent on joining the baseball team.
"Hey, I know it's a bit late, but do you think you could also interview a couple of them?"
"What?"
"Just the two younger brothers. I will have my hands full with the first years and I doubt you need to do much with the seniors."
Satsuki frowned as they neared the two tables the baseball team had reserved. Both had four boys seated about them. Kurumu immediately recognized Borohata with his peppered hair done up in those numerous, short braids. The tallest one sitting next to him had to be Zokubu's younger brother, figuring if he did not have his dirty blond hair in that ponytail he would look almost identical. She did not recognize the silver haired guy or the kid with the crimped, shoulder length hair.
"Sit over there and do what you can. You have my notes."
Satsuki shrugged, angling over to that table while Kurumu continued over to the other table, favoring Ikazuchi with a smile. She set her tray down beside him while pulling the notebook out from beneath it. She opened the notebook, freeing her mechanical pencil from the binding before smiling at the others about the table.
"Welcome to our den of iniquity."
She frowned at Ikazuchi as she took her seat.
"What does that mean?"
"I honestly don't know. Sounds cool."
She smirked, shaking her head as she flipped open the notebook. She had borrowed this from Satsuki, taking some time second period to copy her interview format on the first empty sheet. She wondered if she should start with Ikazuchi. Despite sharing homeroom with him for weeks, she honestly did not know a whole lot about him. Not even his first name.
She guessed the shorter young man with the crew cut, platinum hair sitting beside him had to be his cousin. She did not recall the name of the senior starting pitcher. The other two boys were stout. The bigger one had his head shaven with gleaming garnet eyes. His arms were thick like a bodybuilder. The other had a mess of hair that hung over his eyes. A golden ring hung from the septum of his nose.
"So how did you avoid the line?"
"My cousin picks out my tray for me. The lunch ladies love him."
The cousin glanced up with a slight flash in his blue eyes. He shook his head, putting down another mouthful.
"I take it that most of you have fourth period gym."
She was answered with grunts as the boys kept their focus on their meals. Ikazuchi laughed, paying little attention to his lunch.
"My cousin is in Mr. Nakanishi's homeroom. That's class six, right?"
The senior sighed, setting his chopsticks down to regard her.
"I'm Gizatochi Denji, from class six. My cousin and I are both in the computer program."
"I don't recall seeing you in Tora's computer class."
Ikazuchi laughed.
"I'm not surprised. When you walked in on our class last week, you looked completely out of it."
Kurumu frowned.
"I'm surprised Tora did not mention it."
"Oh? Is there a reason for her to mention it?"
"Huh?"
"Is she interested?"
Kurumu smiled, waving dismissively.
"No. I just thought she would mention other classmates in her elective."
He chuckled.
"I'm sure she didn't mention Hedoyami either."
Kurumu smiled, scratching down the note about their electives under their respective names.
"I don't have your first name."
"Inuki."
"Serious?"
"But I'm not an okami or inugami, if you are curious."
Kurumu grinned at a thought.
"Nekomusume?"
"Now that would be wrong on so many levels."
Kurumu glanced up as a pair of boys wandered into view. The ashen gray haired boy with the mullet took the seat across from her. He was about Ginei's height and flashed her a familiar toothy grin. The other massive boy took his seat between the other stout boys. This ginger had his hair tugged back in a short tail and had multiple ear and nose piercings. Things were looking cramped that side of the table.
"So this is the famous Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu smiled at the boy across the table. She nodded slightly.
"Hitomure Satoshi."
"A true dog spirit."
Kurumu smirked as Hitomure waved his chopsticks menacingly at Ikazuchi. She jotted down his name, somewhat familiar with him.
"I heard you are from the Shibata district and are in class four."
He grinned at Ikazuchi.
"Told you I'm popular with the ladies."
Kurumu giggled, shaking her head.
"I picked that up from Senyou in my class."
"Oh? Well… Nobuyuki is a little bitch."
Kurumu smiled despite herself, though it seemed only Ikazuchi was amused with the comment. The rest of the boys carried on with their meals without interest. Two more boys wandered over to join them. A young man with short, curly, tangerine locks sat next to Gizatochi while a blue haired boy with frosty white highlights settled down even further down this side. There was barely any room left to the table.
"I didn't ask Senyou, but are there any other players from Shibata on your team?"
"I'm the only one. These three bears are from Sekikawa."
Kurumu perked up at that, gesturing at the trio of large boys.
"I know two of you are first years. Which one is Hazama?"
The ginger glanced up with crimson eyes.
"From class nine, right? What's your full name?"
The young man set his chopsticks down, gruffly jostling the shorter boy between him and Hitomure.
"Hazama Fumitsuke. The runt here is Fukuyoka Masahiko."
The runt with the bangs over his eyes grunted, ignoring Hazama. He was not even close to being the shortest at the table.
"And this is Touremasen Toushi."
Kurumu nodded, jotting down their names for now. Hitomure chuckled at her notes.
"Hazama is Fumi. Touremasen is Toutou and Fukuyoka is Mutsu."
"Huh?"
Ikazuchi chuckled.
"Coach encourages nicknames."
"So what's yours?"
Several chuckles sounded about the table, Gizatochi shaking his head.
"Well… the idea is to have a shorter nickname so Denji and I stick with our normal names."
"Coach calls him sparkles."
"But he's right about Denji."
Kurumu smiled at the blue haired boy that had made the last comment.
"And who are you?"
"I'm Fukisarashi Hiroto. I'm the hero of this team."
Kurumu vaguely recalled this was one of the starters. With a slight smile, she gestured to the reddish haired boy on his left.
"He is Himura Netsui. We call him Tsui. And Hitomure is Toshi."
A hand clapped down on her shoulder as a familiar beige haired boy slipped in on her left. She scooted over to make room for Asobitani as Zaisan and Oshaberi studied the other side of the table as if looking at it would make more space for them.
"You never mentioned nicknames."
Asobitani shrugged as Zaisan shook his head. Oshaberi squeezed in next to Hitomure.
"I'll try the other table."
Several boys chuckled as Zaisan tried to find a spot to sit at the other table which was also full.
"So what's your nickname?"
"His is bench."
"Fuck off."
Kurumu grinned, glancing at Oshaberi.
"Is it really?"
"It's Yuu. We only use them in the field."
"Though it's convenient when some guys have a whole mouthful."
Chuckles answered Hitomure's remark. Realizing the boys had not quite followed her plans for Satsuki to firm up her senior interviews, or for her to do the first years since it looked like Abe was at the other table and likely so was that Yamadachi kid, she supposed she should simply make due.
"So do you guys always sit in the same spots?"
"Sort of. The boys from Tokamachi like to keep close so we let them."
Kurumu smiled, aware that Oshaberi, Asobitani and Zaisan were from the same community in Tsunan.
"Are any of the other guys from your junior high?"
"No. Those three are from Tainai. I don't even remember where the fuck Himura is from."
"Sanjo."
Kurumu recalled the three gorgon girls from the archery team were from that district.
"Bokuseki?"
"Huh?"
Kurumu frowned.
"I think that's the name of a village in Sanjo."
His golden eyes lit up.
"Oh. Yea. No, not from there. Though I know some kids from there."
"Know? You're fucking Kusou."
Himura smacked Fukisara… Hiroto's shoulder. It was easier and she felt it would be too impolite to use his nickname.
"Is this a girl from the kimono club?"
"You've met my girlfriend?"
Kurumu laughed, shaking her head.
"I know a couple of your seniors are dating. How about the rest of you?"
Several boys snickered without comment. She arched an eyebrow at Hitomure.
"I'm keeping my options open. I think these three wouldn't know what to do with a girl."
Hazama straightened up with a scowl.
"Not rocket science, mutt. No reason to chase skirts."
Touremasen pounded the table with his huge fist.
"Right. A man must have value to a woman. We're just boys."
Hitomure chuckled, thumbing at the trio.
"Have to admire traditional values. It's a good fallback excuse when you can't find a girl."
Kurumu grinned at the scowls thrown at Hitomure.
"I'm guessing you boys might know Ushio's cousin, Makiba."
Touremasen and Hazama both bellowed out chuckles while Fukuyoka continued to eat in silence.
"That girl has spunk. Reminds me of Kettou."
Touremasen waved a meaty hand dismissively.
"More like Kouyama. She joined volleyball to be with her."
"That's true. Rough girls, the whole lot. Be fun to court any of them."
"Not Keishutani though. Heard from Pa that she to be groomed."
Hazama frowned.
"Already? For who?"
"Don't know. Not from our village though."
"Shame."
"What exactly is groomed?"
The boys chuckled.
"Marriage."
Kurumu's eyes widened, aware that Keishutani was Makiba's friend in home economics.
"Already?"
Touremasen shrugged his huge shoulders.
"Who knows? These things can be years out."
"Surprised she'd agree to it. She's younger than me."
Kurumu smiled, wondering if Ushio would know anything about Keishutani.
"So when do you turn sixteen."
"October seventh. Her birthday is in December."
Kurumu chuckled, amazed that she was older than this massive hulk.
"So I understand that you're the special catcher for Gizatochi."
"That is correct."
"Are you in the business or computer programs?"
He shook his broad head.
"I prefer working my hands. I'm in the construction trade elective this year and took shop last year, which is what these two are doing."
She nodded, not too surprised with that. Nearly all of the boys from soccer had been in these manly electives. She suspected if she ever got to do the basketball team, she would find more guys from shop.
"What do you plan to do in the future?"
"Play ball. Win some games. Graduate. Get a job in the human world. Manual labor stuff."
Kurumu smiled at the simplicity of his answers.
"Marriage?"
"If some girl will have me."
Several guys chuckled as Kurumu pointed her pencil at Hazama.
"What about you?"
"Ditto."
She smirked, glancing aside as another round of chuckles followed.
"You can't ditto your future. Come on. Hopes and dreams?"
Hazama guffawed, shaking his head.
"I'm content with getting through the season. I can worry about next year when I get there."
Kurumu sighed, wondering if she should even bother with their silent friend. He probably would say the same things.
"Either of you want to list off favorite things?"
"Boobs, baseball and pizza."
Kurumu shook her head at Hitomure's jovial remark. All that time with Ginei was paying off.
"I know a couple girls from Shibata. Kiba and Matsudera."
"Is there a threat incoming?"
Kurumu paused, having not thought about going that direction.
"Should there be?"
"I think I'll pass."
Kurumu smiled, tapping her pencil against the notebook.
"So what elective are you in?"
"I'm in the business program. Not a good class to pick up a date, I'll tell you that."
"Huh?"
"It's a full class of thirty and we only have five girls in there. Ms. Amesuki from my class, some porker from class six and three girls from class three. Hanetsume, Tobuyoku and Dokiniji."
Kurumu perked up at the names of her friends. Neither had said anything about their elective being full of boys. Surely that would have been something for Hanetsume to complain about.
"That's surprising."
"Not really."
Kurumu frowned, glancing at Gizatochi. Realizing her attention, he shrugged.
"A lot of girls decide to take home ec and put choir as their second. If you pick computer or business, you lock yourself out of ever doing either."
"Hmm. I didn't think about that."
"Joke about these guys being traditional all you like but most girls are the same way. They want a family more than a career."
Hitomure shrugged at Gizatochi's assessment.
"Yea, well… a career is only useful to fund a family. It's just guys wanting to make the money."
Oshaberi chuckled.
"Exactly. Who the fuck actually wants to work for the sake of working? Sure, it's great to do a good job but it's for the money. And money buys the things you want."
"That's the simple way to approach things."
Kurumu smiled at Gizatochi.
"What about you? Are you planning to do something in computers?"
"I think our high school program is too far behind to make any rational plans. I will need college to better shape any ideas for the future."
"Any romantic interests?"
Ikazuchi snorted.
"Denji couldn't handle the chaos a girl would bring to his life."
"I simply agree with Toushi. There's no reason to pursue a girl at this time unless your goal is to use her either to sate your body or your ego."
"Why not both?"
Gizatochi rolled his eyes at his cousin's remark.
"If you are so eager for a woman, why have you hesitated? You've known about her for weeks."
"Because Uncle would kill me if I did anything with that princess. Besides, you're his son. I think Lord Sakigake would approve of you before me."
"It's not like she's his daughter."
"What are you two talking about?"
Ikazuchi grinned.
"Ms. Shindou Asuka from class one. Your name drop of her uncle pretty much told us everything."
"My father is the mayor of Uchimori, our village in the Tainai district."
Kurumu frowned, recalling some Tengu were from that district.
"So you both are Tengu?"
Ikazuchi laughed as Gizatochi shook his head.
"That would be my village, Hateshinai."
Kurumu smiled at Hiroto, though she had never heard of a blue haired Tengu.
"Okay, that's confusing."
Ikazuchi touched his chest while gesturing at his cousin.
"I heard you went to her birthday party. Denji and I are both the same race as Ms. Shindou."
Now she felt stupid and confused.
"But I thought she was like rare. She made a big deal about it."
Gizatochi rolled his eyes.
"There's no way that girl was unaware of my father. I'm surprised she hasn't tracked me down."
Kurumu mulled that over, wondering if Asuka might have deceived her.
"You wouldn't mind if I asked her about knowing you?"
"You can't be serious."
Kurumu shrugged.
"She's never admitted awareness of there being other Raiji here. It's why she insisted I put her uncle's name in the article."
"I bet she's waiting for you to make the first move."
"You can have her. I'm not interested."
Kurumu wondered what she would say to Asuka today. That girl was so direct. It made little sense for her to avoid Gizatochi if she knew about him.
"I'll drop your name and see how she reacts."
"She is cute."
The senior glared at his cousin.
"She's trouble. You should steer clear of her."
Ikazuchi grinned, turning to Kurumu.
"You can tell her about me. She's a little short and not nearly as blessed as you have been, but she might be a late bloomer."
Kurumu smirked.
"I wouldn't count on her getting bigger boobs."
Several boys chuckled at her frank response. She glanced at her wrist before remembering she no longer had a watch. She sighed, tapping the ribbon tied about her wrist.
"Coach said we can do the pictures tomorrow after practice. With our game on Saturday, he wants a light practice tomorrow and Friday off."
Kurumu nodded, thinking she needed to catch Kamitsuku before he left class today. If that failed, she would need Honda to pass word to Uchiyama. She might consider doing both.
"That should work. Hmm. I think I don't have much on Hiroto."
"What exactly do you want?"
"Or Himura for that matter. But I'll start with asking what elective you're in."
Hiroto gestured at Himura.
"We're both in the computer program. I'm also engaged but still a virgin unlike this lucky bastard."
Kurumu blinked in shock as the boys chuckled about her.
"Um… is it okay that I write down the girls you two are involved with."
"Sure. Unlike him, I've known my girlfriend forever. It was arranged by our parents four years ago."
"At least I'm not related to Hebiko. His fiancée is his cousin."
Kurumu remained at a loss. She knew some pureblood families allowed cousin marriage so it should not be that surprising. It was definitely not a practice of the Tengu.
"Oh. That's nice."
Hiroto chuckled.
"Her name is Hayate Chirimi. She's a first year in class eleven."
Kurumu wrote the name down, pausing at the familiarity.
"I know a Hayate from class one. He's a boy."
"Yea. Also my cousin, though not her brother. He grew up in my village while she's from Koutoukumo in the new Aga district."
Kurumu smiled softly, thinking she knew quite a few names from class eleven.
"I didn't pick up what homerooms you are both from."
"I'm from Nakanishi's class one and he's from Kuwabara's class three."
"Ishihara's class eight. Think Mutsu is in first year class eight. Don't recall the teacher."
Kurumu grinned, nodding at Touremasen.
"I actually knew his. I think I'm forgetting something."
Hitomure smirked.
"Probably your lunch. You've barely touched it."
Kurumu smiled, lowering her head as the boys had another round of laughter. She supposed that was true. As she toyed with the idea of actually eating, she wondered if Satsuki was making any progress at her table. Being two seniors shy, she certainly hoped the girl had taken the initiative to interview the younger Borohata and Zokubu.
"Well… I have English next so I'll just eat here instead of attending a class I don't understand."
Hitomure chuckled.
"That's right. You have Mr. Nagamushi too. That guy's a quack."
"May as well continue with the interviews. So Himura. Plans for the future?"
"Probably something that involves Kusou's ankles behind her ears."
As the boys started into another fit of chuckles, Kurumu hoped she would have enough time.
The moment the bell rang, Kurumu sprung from her chair intent on the door. She already had her things put away and her schoolbag slung across her torso. With vacant seats in front of her and Deshi always being slow to get up, Kurumu was able to get out into the hall before Ms. Sunao.
It had been a busy second half of the day. She had skipped her fifth period to organize her notes and finally eat her meal. Satsuki had done no more than what she had been asked to, leaving Kurumu with four boys on the team left to interview. She figured she could handle that tomorrow at the shoot. She had to catch Kamitsuku before he left.
They had been prepping sweets for the oven today, keeping her busy for most the hour. She suspected Asuka knew about Gizatochi despite the awkward denial which blatantly betrayed knowing his gender. She would have pushed for more but the other girls did it for her, frustrating the blond into silence and drawing Ms. Hitori's ire. It was the first time the teacher left her desk to stand watch over their station for over ten minutes, making them all feel bad.
They were learning tennis in gym and everybody had to participate. Kurumu had been up for a half hour of activity chasing balls. Her body ached from all the bouncing about, wondering if she needed a firmer sports bra. At least she would be back on the sidelines tomorrow. It sucked to be sore with nothing to show for it. With the boys off doing baseball, Tsukune had been too far away to enjoy the spectacle.
She spied Kamitsuku with Tomisaki walking out of the class a couple paces ahead of her. The russet haired boy from the cheerleader squad turned towards her, grinning and offering a wave.
"Wait up, Kamitsuku."
Tomisaki smirked, turning aside as Kamitsuku paused to look over his shoulder. His eyes were as weary as Tsukune's had been. Kurumu wagged her fingers at Tomisaki as she bounced past him.
"I was hoping you could do some pictures for me."
Kamitsuku grinned with a delicious thought. Amused, she shook her head.
"For my article, dummy."
"I knew that."
"Mhm. Meet me at the ballfield after school tomorrow."
He fiddled with the strap of his schoolbag as he absently moved closer to the balcony railing to allow other students to pass.
"Should I come alone?"
"If you think you can handle the baseball team on your own."
He nodded thoughtfully.
"Baseball. I'll see if Sangi will help out. Can't promise any others."
"Oh? What about Uchiyama?"
"He's been curious when you will do the softball team. If you will do it."
Kurumu smiled softly, noting the other students that walked by.
"Kumiko keeps asking about it too. I want to, but there's this whole expulsion thing."
He shrugged.
"It's not like there's anything you can do about that. It sounds like they made up their minds."
"Yea."
"Do what you can do and we'll have this big going away party for you next week."
Kurumu cocked her head aside.
"Are you arranging this?"
"Sangi is putting something together. I think she wants to take you all out to dinner next Thursday night. I have no idea whom all is involved or invited."
"Aren't you a wealth of information."
He chuckled, glancing over his shoulder.
"Well I've had my hands full with other things lately. Serious stuff watching a camera all night long."
Kurumu smiled, vaguely remembering what the boys were doing with Umizake.
"You're all being silly. What if these guys are being grabbed on the way to school?"
Kamitsuku chuckled.
"We realize this. We figure by recording our hall we will at least have a better time for the crime. We might not even have the right day for the first two victims."
Kurumu grimaced at the sound of that.
"Don't think like that. None of the missing girls died so you should hope for better."
"I don't know about that. Every kidnapping story has a villain torturing girls for as long as they can. Don't hear much about them doing it to guys."
A small hand touched her side. Asuka favored her with a slight smile, withdrawing her hand while making a nod at the class.
"Can I talk with you?"
Kurumu waved at Kamitsuku.
"I'll see you tomorrow."
"Count on it."
Kurumu crossed the busy hallway with the blond at her side. They stepped into the classroom. With a glance at the board, Kurumu realized it was Tsukune's turn for class duties with Ms. Arashimideru. Tsukune was pushing a broom with Tora holding the dustpan while Mizore watched from the shadows. The stoic Arashimideru was diligently wiping off the chalk board. It appeared the rest of the students had filtered out during her short conversation with Kamitsuku.
"Won't you be late to practice?"
Asuka smiled, turning about to lean against Tomisaki's desk.
"Coach is giving the field to the soccer team for the rest of the week. They have a big game."
Kurumu smirked, glancing at the empty desks in the front row.
"Those two birds flew the coup awful quick. Didn't say anything to me."
Asuka giggled.
"I saw them walk out the back. I don't think they noticed me."
Kurumu paused, regarding Tsukune. He was fixated on his task, absently chatting with Tora.
"So what's up?"
"I'm sorry."
"About?"
Asuka made a sour face.
"Gizatochi was my excuse to come to Yokai."
"So do you want to meet him?"
Asuka shrugged, glancing at the vacant teacher desk.
"Sort of. Maybe. I really didn't want to go to Terasu Institute."
Asuka smiled softly.
"It's not a fun place. Worse than our junior high. I think they only accept ten or twelve races. Yuu's family would have to petition for her to attend and even then she would need purebloods to vouch for her. My word would have not been enough."
"You're here because of Taijin."
Asuka sighed with a slight nod.
"She did have other places she could go. Shinjou High is much nicer and a bigger school than Terasu, but it's tucked away in the corner of the prefecture, close to where Akito touches Miyagi. That's so far away that she would have had to live on campus. My parents would have never agreed to send me there."
Kurumu smiled.
"You should drop your plans of quitting school for my sake."
"I'm sorry I didn't say something about Gizatochi."
"I'm a little surprised you didn't try to meet this guy. You seemed excited to find another Raiji."
Asuka shrugged with a slight smile.
"I honestly didn't know his family would have anyone here. I knew about the Gizatochi clan in Niigata. It's smaller than mine. We have about a dozen families in Yuusei, all related to some degree. There's another clan his size in Miyazaki and one about twice mine's size in Nagoya. I actually flipped a coin on whether or not I would come to Yokai for Gizatochi or Imoshinai for Kashikoikata."
Asuka looked at Honda as the girl entered through the front door with Kana. Kurumu quickly waved to the two as they walked over. Kana settled in Kamitsuku's seat while Honda lingered beside the desk. Kurumu smiled at Arashimideru, whom was picking up her things from the teacher desk.
"Arashimideru. What's your opinion on Ikazuchi?"
The girl paused as she pulled the strap of her schoolbag over her head. She absently flicked the left tufted tail of silvery hair to be free of the cord as she settled the strap neatly across her torso. Her cerulean eyes were calm and thoughtful as she slowly approached.
"I went to junior high with him."
Kurumu was unsure how she felt about that revelation. She knew Arashimideru had not been friends with Hiboshi prior but had not pressed for too many details on the quiet, tall girl's past. With a smile, Kurumu gestured at Asuka.
"This is Shindou Asuka."
"I'm aware whom she is, Ms. Kurono."
Asuka giggled, shaking her head while Kurumu felt silly about forgetting these two shared gym.
"What are we doing?"
"I was asking her opinion of him because he is Gizatochi's cousin."
Asuka's eyes flashed with interest.
"He's a first year?"
"So are you from Uchimori or Hateshinai?"
Arashimideru cocked her head aside, intrigued by Kurumu's inquiry.
"Hateshinai. I'm a sylph."
Asuka laughed, pointing at the tall girl.
"See! A pureblood."
"Nothing special about that, Ms. Shindou."
Arashimideru regarded Honda whom had turned away after the curt remark. Her eyes slowly drifted away to address Kurumu.
"I do hope Ms. Shindou doesn't have serious expectations of Mr. Ikazuchi. He's not that mature."
"I didn't even know about him ten minutes ago."
Kurumu giggled at the odd thoughts crossing her mind. She had a little more than a week to avoid expulsion and she was still chatting about finding boys for her friends.
"How do you feel about the expulsion, Arashimideru? Tsukune and Moka are your lab partners. This whole thing must be very inconvenient for you."
Arashimideru shrugged nonchalantly.
"I feel Mr. Aono would be expelled even if he had killed a half dozen sylphs."
"Exactly the point I was making yesterday."
"I've worked with Mr. Aono and Ms. Akashiya. Trying to paint them as racists is people trying to pretend those murdered boys did nothing wrong."
"Don't forget that they put down the old PSC headed by Kuyo, whom was blatantly racist."
Arashimideru glanced up as Tsukune came over to join them with Mizore in his shadow. The sylph smiled softly, which was an unusual expression for her.
"I don't think anyone wants him expelled, including Ms. Hiboshi. We are all so relieved that they decided against execution that expulsion feels acceptable. It's not what we want."
"Thank you, Ms. Arashimideru."
She nodded to Tsukune.
"I shall see you tomorrow, Mr. Aono. Ladies."
Arashimideru straightened up and stalked out the open front door. Kana snorted out a laugh as she flipped a page in her sketchbook. It was quickly apparent that Kana's amusement was unrelated.
"So… Aono. Tsukune. Your opinion on Ikazuchi?"
He smiled at Asuka, glancing at Tora as she came up the aisle.
"Ms. Shindou, right?"
Asuka nodded as everyone settled in a casual circle.
"He's kind of tall."
Kurumu laughed, which caused Asuka to quickly join in. Even Tora had a smug grin.
"Come on, Tsukune. I remember you drawing his profile in class."
"That was an assignment."
"Would you say he's attractive?"
Tsukune paused with a nervous grin.
"I don't know if I could answer that."
Asuka pushed off the desk to walk down the aisle. Stopping next to Tora, she reached over the vacant desk behind Kana to poke at Tsukune's side.
"Like is he cute or handsome?"
"I wouldn't know the difference."
"Smart?"
"I think he scored next to me. We're about the same academically."
"He was two places below you but he was higher in the assessments."
Kurumu smirked at Tora.
"Taking a page out of Yukari's book?"
"I don't remember how much higher."
Asuka leaned on the desk, cupping her cheek in a palm as she cocked her head.
"Is he fun to be around?"
Tsukune chuckled.
"He's a goofball. Him and Yougan are always up to something. You would think the two grew up together with how they act."
Kurumu grinned.
"Did you ask if they did?"
"I overheard the two talking about whom they went to school with in junior high. Yougan grew up with Ms. Asakira from class one while Ikazuchi went to junior high with Mr. Hayate, the other class one rep. They had a moment. It was funny."
Kurumu smirked.
"I can imagine."
Asuka slapped the desk, straightening up and crossing her arms.
"That settles it. I shall meet this boy and demand to know why he's taken so long to talk with me."
"You may want to warn him if he has a younger brother."
Asuka wagged a sparkling finger at Mizore, clearly amused.
"Don't you start spreading rumors. I'm not into younger boys."
Kurumu chuckled, crossing her arms below her breasts.
"You might have to be. Ikazuchi turned sixteen on the fifth of June."
Asuka whirled about with a smirk. She rolled her eyes with a slight toss of her head.
"Whatever. That's not even a week younger than me."
"Don't you have club to run off to? We have a club meeting."
Asuka regarded Mizore with amusement.
"Oh please. Don't pretend like you contribute anything to this club."
"I'm busy keeping an eye on Tsukune."
"You don't have to do that."
"I don't mind."
"I do."
Kurumu chuckled at his frustration. She absently pawed at her sweater with a random thought about laundry. She doubted she could ever wash her clothes with him again without thinking about their last encounter and how Mizore had watched.
There was a slight rap on the door. Tokori stepped into the room with Umizake at her side. She managed a smile while approaching them. Umizake remained quietly at the door.
"Pardon the intrusion but I'm supposed to walk Kurumu home."
Kana snorted, setting her sketchbook down as she regarded the pair.
"Well there's a familiar tall, dark and mysterious. I remember you from Moka's birthday."
Tokori smiled, bowing her head slightly as attention shifted to Umizake.
"I forgot you were in the PSC. What brings you here?"
"I'm here for Aono."
Kurumu smirked.
"Are you sure you're not here for Mizore?"
Umizake glanced at Mizore whom had cocked her head aside. The snow girl had her hands stuffed in her center pocket. The two stared coldly at each other.
"Quite. We are monitoring the situation in our dorm."
Kurumu waved her hand dismissively.
"Yes, yes. Still, don't you want to say something about her pending expulsion?"
There was another long pause as the two stared impassively at each other.
"Where do you plan to go?"
Mizore glanced at Tsukune for a moment.
"That's not your concern."
"Mr. Aono will be taken to the Shuzen estate. I doubt you will be allowed to follow."
"I have no intentions of returning home."
"When was it decided I was going to the Shuzen estate?"
Kurumu chuckled, aware that this fact had somehow escaped conversation.
"What did you think they would do with you, Tsukune? They can't send you home in your condition."
He paused at Tora's stern remarks. He absently touched his chest.
"I didn't think I'd go there. Moka sounded so certain we would not meet again."
Kurumu recognized his logic.
"We don't really know this, Tora. While Mrs. Shuzen will take Tsukune into custody, I don't know where Moka or I will end up."
"But I shall remain with Tsukune. This woman has no power over me."
Umizake sighed.
"So much trouble."
"You can go home and tell my family that I have made my decision."
Umizake regained his neutral air as he regarded his fiancée.
"I will inform my father so he can apologize for your behavior before you get yourself killed. I imagine your demise would be most unfortunate for him and your village."
"You can also break off our engagement."
"Never. Now Aono. You are coming with me so we can continue our surveillance."
Tsukune nervously glanced between Mizore and Umizake.
"Should we eat dinner first?"
"We agreed to eat in shifts. Mr. Yamabato and Mr. Kinusawa will have dinner first."
"I'm coming too."
Umizake glanced aside.
"What for? You won't convince me to change my mind."
"I'm to watch over him."
"Hardly effective when you watch from the shadows of the exterior stairway."
Tsukune paused in shock as Mizore cocked her head.
"Then allow me inside."
Umizake paused, turning his eyes upon Tsukune.
"If you have no objections, I will allow it."
"I… no. I guess."
"Then we should get going."
Umizake turned on his heel and promptly stepped out into the hall. Tsukune quickly walked back to his desk to retrieve his things and Mizore slowly followed him about.
"So that guy is her fiancé?"
Kurumu chuckled, nodding at Kana's inquiry. Asuka shook her head, astonished as Tsukune started for the back door with Mizore in tow.
"She's so short compared to him."
Kurumu shrugged, thinking about how the height difference between Ikazuchi and Asuka would work out. Asuka was only slightly taller than Mizore but Ikazuchi was likely shorter than Umizake.
"I think they make an interesting couple."
Honda huffed at Kana's remark.
"More like volatile. What are you drawing?"
"Another sketch I might use for the comic. Does anyone know how to contact Morioka?"
Kurumu shrugged, aware that they were the only ones left in the room. She smiled at Tokori.
"What did you want again?"
Tokori laughed despite her tenseness.
"I was told last night to bring you back to the suite. My mother was annoyed that you didn't show up."
"Well… I felt you might want some space."
Asuka cocked her head.
"What exactly is going on? Are you two fighting?"
Tora smiled, gesturing at them.
"Kurumu has taken in Ms. Meirowasa's family since their home burned down over the weekend."
Asuka touched her chest, falling back a step.
"What?! That is so wrong. You didn't say anything about your house burning down."
Tokori winced.
"It didn't seem like something I'd want to share."
Asuka wrung her hands.
"Can I do something?"
Tokori sighed, shaking her head.
"Don't worry about it. Anyways, Mom gave me your key, so if you want a change of clothes, you have to come home."
"I heard the school refused to give you a suite."
Tokori groaned, slumping her shoulders as Asuka's concern visibly deepened.
"It's no big deal. Mom went out looking for places to rent this morning. She's probably waiting for us because she didn't feel right about leaving Yakusoku alone but she can't take him to work with her. She needs us to watch him tonight."
"I'll watch him."
Tokori favored Asuka with a suspicious stare.
"Don't you have a practice to go to?"
"Sheesh. Everyone sounds so eager to run me out the door."
Kurumu chuckled, fiddling with the strap about her shoulder.
"So what happened to begging Ms. Sawayaka to take you in?"
Tokori sighed.
"I asked yesterday but she told me this morning that her father won't allow it. They have a guest over and he feels it would be inappropriate for a young lady to sleep over."
Kurumu frowned, quickly deducing the guest had to be a man.
"Would this guest be Fusamina?"
Tokori laughed, rocking back on her heels as she shook her head.
"Mikomi hates Fusamina. If he had come over, I would know it"
Kurumu nodded, supposing she would trust Tokori on that.
"So who is this guest?"
Tokori shrugged.
"Probably that guy I've seen over at their place several times. He's been dropping in on them for as long as I can remember."
"If you've known him for years, why would this be a problem?"
Tokori smirked.
"Probably because I'm not a little girl anymore."
"Is he a relative or something?"
"I don't think so. He was a playful sort. Always tripping us up on our words. Her father would always shoo us out of the house when this guy was around."
"He sounds like a suspicious character."
Tokori grinned as she stared off.
"Yea. I guess he is. We would never let ourselves be alone with him. We were all a little scared he was the sort to abduct children."
Asuka snickered.
"You seem fond of him."
Tokori poked the blond in the shoulder.
"You're still small enough for snatching."
Kurumu chuckled.
"Do you ever hang out with your old friends?"
Tokori paused in thought. She shrugged.
"I got my part time job a couple weeks after turning fourteen. And Tobi started hanging out with other kids from school."
She paused, smiling at a thought.
"Her parents have this huge playhouse in the back that even has a working kitchen. It was a good place to hang out when we didn't feel like going home."
"Who's Tobi?"
"Tensai Tobi. She's a senior in the manga club."
"I know her."
Kana frowned after her outburst.
"But she said she lived on campus."
"That's right. She convinced her parents to let her stay with Ms. Netsukaze. Nice girl from Tochimoeru."
Kurumu smiled, having heard that village name earlier today.
"So she's from Sanjo."
"Yea, that's right."
Kurumu paused as she thought about these things. She glanced at Tora, whom shrugged.
"We should get going. I really don't want to deal with another lecture from my mother."
"Can I come too?"
Tokori sighed, shaking her head at Asuka's request.
"Fine."
"Yay!"
Asuka sprung past Kurumu to cling to Tokori's arm. The girl rolled her eyes as she started for the front door. Grinning, Kurumu started to follow.
"I guess that means we'll do what we can with the newspaper."
Kurumu chuckled at Tora's resignation.
"You'll be fine without me."
"See you tomorrow."
Nodding, she stepped out into the hall on Tokori's heels.