Kurumu lingered outside Moka's apartment a couple hours before her deadline. She took in a deep breath and closed her eyes. She knew she had to do this. She hoped Moka could help her figure out how they would do this.
It was clear this guy knew more about the members of her club than some of her classmates. That made it dangerous to tell anyone else. Presuming he was somehow watching her closely and not wanting to explain why she peed herself, she decided to head straight home after the encounter.
Mrs. Meirowasa had been in the process of making dinner when she arrived. Avoiding awkward small talk, Kurumu had quickly selected clothes for today and showered up. She had passed on the meal, heading out to the dining hall with hopes to find someone willing to take her in for the night.
It had been somewhat of a stroke of luck to meet up with Hiyoshi, whom had been sitting by herself in a depressed mood. Having turned seventeen on Thursday, the girl had just seen her cousin off to that softball game in Joukuu and was not looking forward to being alone for half the weekend. Kurumu had quickly offered spending the night, using Tokori's pervy little brother as her excuse.
Hiyoshi had been thrilled to have company, keeping Kurumu up long into the early morning with video games and random chatter. They had woken up well after the dining hall stopped serving breakfast, electing to pick up snacks at the commissary and check their mail. She knew getting a letter from her mother had been unlikely, but it was nice to see all the stuff Hiyoshi had been sent. Having nothing else to do, Kurumu parted ways with Hiyoshi and had wandered over to Moka's suite 413. She sighed, wondering if she would have to knock a third time to get the vampire's attention.
She rapped the back of her knuckles against the door, glancing at the nearby apartment building. She wondered what Mizore was up to, unsure if the girl had gone to school yesterday. She had been so worried with others finding out about Ginei's presence on campus that she had avoided talking to anyone in class three.
She wondered if Tora had made any plans for the club today. They had talked before the baseball shoot about reserving the computer lab around one, but Kurumu had not spoken with anyone yesterday to confirm that was still happening. All of her notes were in her schoolbag in her suite along with a thumb drive Sangi had let her borrow which had all of the photos for the baseball team
She sighed, realizing she had not even talked to Tsukune.
A door smashed against her face with amazing force. She fell back on her butt, her hands striking the dirt to keep her from ending up on her back. Her nose ached fiercely and her tail throbbed where it was pinched to the ground. Covering her face with a hand, she lifted up her left hip so her tail could slither free. She whimpered as the shock passed and the sting of multiple scrapes across her palm announced their presence.
"I'm so sorry!"
Moka held a hand up to her mouth, the other lingering at the door. The vampire was dressed in a black chemise that had a white lace bow stitched in the center right below her bosom. Unsurprisingly, Moka also was wearing a black bra that had wider straps than the chemise. This was not the first time Kurumu had witnessed Moka's awkward sleep decisions. Instead of simply wearing this with panties, the vampire had on a gray sleep pant that hung loosely all the way down to her ankles.
"You owe me a shirt and shorts."
Moka frowned as Kurumu picked herself off the ground. She tucked her breast back in the pastel green top with the strip down the center of her back. She patted her butt which was wrapped up in that tight, denim short with the custom hole for her tail in the back. It was one of two outfits she still had for the weekends since Moka had slashed up her canary halter top and Mrs. Meirowasa assured her that blood stains would be too hard to wash out from her loose cotton shorts, especially with them being white.
"I'm sorry."
Kurumu sighed.
"Can I come in?"
"Oh! Yea. Of course."
Moka backed away from the door, gesturing inside. Fixing her breasts a final time, Kurumu slipped inside and promptly scooted out of her shoes in the small entryway.
Moka's suite was similar to any other. As it was meant for two occupants, the main room and kitchen were longer than hers, allowing for an extra counter. The vampire would have a tub just like Hiyoshi. Kurumu wandered over to the counters, absently tugging them open. They were empty just like hers had been. She supposed Moka had decided against picking up things with the pending expulsion.
Moka still had her desk with the portraits, but she must have gotten rid of her potted plants. It would be hard to keep those things around since the suites had no windows for natural light. Her big, golden bear was pushed in the far corner nearest the door. Her bedding rested in the corner next to the stuffed animal. The sheets were wrinkled from use.
"Did you just wake up?"
Moka locked the door and wandered into the room. The vampire stretched her arms over her head.
"Sort of."
Kurumu sighed, glancing at her wrist out of habit. The lace tied about her wrist kept making her think she had her watch.
"You shouldn't sleep in this late."
"What else can I do? The Headmaster said I should stay out of sight until my sister comes."
"Do you know when she's coming?"
Moka shook her head, absently running her fingers through her pink tresses. The vampire glanced at the door, letting out a sigh.
"How is Tsukune?"
Kurumu turned about to lean back against the counters. She crossed her arms below her breasts.
"I think he's okay. I didn't speak at all with him yesterday."
"Why not?"
"It doesn't matter. How have you been?"
"I've been here."
Kurumu glanced about the empty apartment.
"Doing what?"
"Thinking."
"About what?"
Moka wrung her hands, tugging on her chemise.
"If I had not ruined Tsukune with my blood, everything would be better."
Kurumu pushed off the counter. Shaking her head, she crossed the room to grab Moka's hands.
"Stop. Tsukune would be dead if you had done nothing."
"The Tsukune we loved is already dead."
Kurumu had agonized over that days ago. Her body no longer craved him as helplessly as before. But she figured her heart and mind still longed for his company, which was good enough.
"He's still Tsukune."
"No. The blood in him is more vampire than human. My blood."
"Well… he hasn't bitten me yet."
Moka managed a pained laugh, shaking her head.
"I'm serious. The Headmaster said Tsukune might start to crave blood. Yours and mine in particular."
"And I'm being serious, Kurumu. The more blood from others he takes, the less Tsukune he becomes."
Kurumu sighed, stepping in closer. She cocked her head, glancing up at Moka.
"If you take more of my blood, will you cease to be Moka?"
Moka frowned.
"That's different."
"How?"
"Kurumu. The other me spent years developing her persona. Years."
"Tsukune has been Tsukune for years."
"It's not the same. You master the blood within you or the blood will take your place. Tsukune does not understand this. He wasn't born with the natural ability to suppress the will of foreign blood."
Kurumu shook her head as she grabbed Moka's hands.
"He's still Tsukune."
Moka sighed, pulling away but only causing Kurumu to stumble into her. Kurumu let go of Moka's hands, slipping her arms about Moka's waist and resting her cheek on Moka's shoulder. It was a loose embrace, though warm and fragrant. Kurumu took in a deep breath, relaxing.
"Did you bathe?"
"Sort of."
"You smell nice."
Kurumu sighed, squeezing the vampire. She was stalling and had no idea how much time she had to spare. But this felt nice.
"Kurumu?"
Kurumu backed off, wiping at the wet streak that stained her cheek. She forced a smile.
"Sorry. Rough week."
Moka sighed.
"I heard from the Headmaster that Yukari's parents took her away."
That made sense. There had been no time for long discussion on Monday. Yukari's departure had not been known by many on Sunday. It did spare Kurumu the trouble of breaking the news.
"I'm sorry."
"I'm over it."
Kurumu chuckled softly.
"You sound like you're recovering from a break up."
"I haven't been able to do anything else."
Kurumu paused.
"When did you last eat?"
Moka hesitated, glancing at the door. She brushed a lock of hair behind her ear as she looked the other way at the floor.
"Moka?"
"I wasn't supposed to leave the room."
Kurumu shook her head, grabbing Moka by the hands.
"You can't do that."
"It's not that big of a deal."
"It's been a whole week!"
"I ate Sunday night."
Kurumu cringed, suddenly concerned that any plans that involved fighting could work.
"Would letting you take some of my blood help?"
Moka frowned.
"That's… not how it works, Kurumu. I was teasing Tsukune because he was cute when he was flustered. Blood is not a food substitute."
"Yea. I suppose we could get some snacks from the commissary."
Moka absently fussed with Kurumu's hair.
"I really shouldn't go out. The Headmaster-"
"Hasn't been much help."
Kurumu sighed, supposing she should not delay this any longer.
"I need you to come to the bus stop with me."
"Why?"
"A man said if I brought you to the bus stop, he would give me Fusamina."
Moka paused, glancing at the door.
"Isn't this the guy the Headmaster wants you to capture?"
"Fusamina is. Supposedly having him will change their minds about expulsion."
"Okay."
Kurumu gave Moka a slight shake.
"No, not okay. This is a really bad man we are about to meet. We need to discuss this."
"What's there to discuss? I suppose I should get dressed."
Kurumu firmed her grip as the vampire tried to pull away.
"Moka! They want to have you! Like as a hostage or something."
"I know that."
Kurumu let Moka go, astonished.
"But… I need you."
Moka smiled softly with a slight shake of her head.
"Nobody needs me. You're the first to stop by and visit."
Kurumu flinched.
"That's not true."
"It is true. Everybody knows it's my fault."
"I tried to visit you a couple nights ago, but you wouldn't answer the door."
Moka stared off at the door.
"Are you the only one that cares?"
Kurumu realized she could not speak for anyone else. The suites were not exactly on the way to anywhere so they were not a convenient place to visit for their friends whom lived in the dorms. Sure, Mizore lived here, but that girl always kept to herself.
Moka had stalked off, opening the closet door. The vampire stepped out of sight.
"Tsukune was told he could not see you. It's not his fault."
"I know."
"Moka."
Kurumu paused, aware the vampire was changing. Sighing, she slowly walked over to the closet door.
"We need to come up with a plan to fight this guy."
"Does anybody else know about this?"
"No. I was warned not to tell anyone else."
"So this man approached you when you were by yourself."
"Yea."
"I take it he's not a student or faculty."
"He's not. But he must know someone here. He knows too much about us. He even knew about Tora's flying lessons."
"It might be best to give him what he wants."
Kurumu scowled, leaning back against the wall beside the door.
"I don't trust him to do that."
"If you could sacrifice yourself in exchange of making the lives of everyone else around you better, would you do it?"
"You're assuming our lives would be better without you."
Moka stepped out of the closet, fluffing her hair out from the collar of the simple black dress she had thrown over her torso. The hems about the collar, cuffs and skirt were all stitched with white lace. As always, Moka had the rosary dangling from a black choker about her neck. She smiled softly at Kurumu.
"Would you do it?"
Kurumu sighed, rolling her eyes.
"The only reason I'm here is because he wouldn't kill me after I refused to help him."
"You refused?"
"Of course I refused."
Moka shook her head, regarding the floor.
"Why?"
"What do you mean, why?"
"Right now it feels like it would be best for me to disappear."
Kurumu grimaced.
"You're so irritating."
"I'm sorry."
"If you are so dead set on running away, why didn't you withdraw? Just write a damn letter and turn it in to any teacher. They could have sent you home."
Moka stiffened. She bowed her head and started to cry.
"I'm sorry. I know I should go. I really should."
Kurumu sighed, knowing she should ease up.
"Do you still have the whistle Ginei gave you?"
Moka wiped her tears on the cuffs of her dress. She nodded, still sobbing weakly.
"Maybe we can use that. I know he wants us to come alone, but Ginei could come to the rescue."
"Just let me go. It's better this way."
Kurumu stepped over to grab Moka and pull her into a hug. It was surprisingly easy despite Moka's feeble attempts to pull away. Kurumu guessed a week without food would do that.
"I'm not letting you go."
She patted Moka's head which rested on her shoulder.
"You know what that bastard did when I called his bluff? He told me he knew a better way to kill a succubus. He would kill everyone I care about."
Moka's hot breath tickled her neck. Kurumu closed her eyes and took in a deep breath, rubbing her other hand up and down Moka's back.
"Yukari suspected this and the Headmaster confirmed it. I guess a succubus can die from grief. Too much sadness could literally break my heart."
She sighed, feeling Moka relax against her.
"So I can't just let you go. I don't hate you enough."
Kurumu smiled as she felt a sweet sensation drift into her.
"We have to come up with something. This guy is no pushover. Even if we used the whistle, he could probably kill us before Ginei finds us."
Kurumu flinched at the wet touch of a tongue.
"What are you-"
Kurumu gasped as teeth sunk in her. Her body tensed up as she felt her life being siphoned away. It was tolerable as she clutched tightly to Moka. It lasted for maybe half a minute before Moka slightly lifted her head, fangs withdrawing. Kurumu felt light headed, but her grip on Moka kept her steady.
"Still too sweet."
Kurumu swallowed, patting Moka's head. Her throat felt so dry.
"Hopefully enough for her to fight."
Moka sighed.
"We can't remove the rosary."
Kurumu paused. That should have been obvious. But there was no way she could drag Tsukune into this.
"Well… there is my dream world. I thought of using it then, but I was too scared to do it."
Moka pulled back. She cocked her head, peering at Kurumu with her turquoise eyes.
"That could work."
"I can't say if he knows how it works. I worry if I make any sharp movements, he will kill me."
"So I should keep him distracted so you can use Lilith's Eye."
"Yea. I think that would work. He can't escape my head, right?"
Moka nodded.
"It's dangerous. Pulling someone more powerful than you into your head most likely means you can't defeat him. But killing you would kill himself. There's no escape."
Kurumu grimaced.
"But if you're also in my head, you would die too."
Moka pursed her lips.
"She says it's your mind. You should be able to throw anyone out that you want to."
Kurumu favored Moka an apologetic smile.
"I have no idea how to do that."
"Well… she knows how to do it. She said it's instinctual. Like pushing away something you don't want. I guess when you walked into her dreams, she threw you out."
Kurumu smiled, recalling that time she had brought Yukari along to peek inside Moka's head.
"Do you think she could explain that?"
Moka sighed.
"She's annoyed and says you're an idiot. You're asking her to teach you how to breathe."
Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head.
"I'm glad she's her usual condescending self."
Moka nodded, rubbing her hands up Kurumu's sides.
"So... I guess if you push me out of your head, I should use the whistle. Then Ginei can apprehend this dangerous person while he is incapacitated by Lilith's Eye."
"Sounds like a plan."
"Kurumu."
Kurumu was caught off guard as Moka pushed in to kiss her. It was sweet, gentle and relaxing. At least it was at the start.
The two girls sat on the ground at the base of the tree. Kurumu's shoulder pressed against Moka's side as she held Moka's hand. Her knees were bent with her feet pointed away from the vampire as Moka casually chewed on her fourth seaweed sandwich. She was certainly making up for lost meals.
Kurumu sighed, wondering if it was cheating to make out with another girl. It was not like they had done anything Yukari level. Just kissing and holding until Moka exhausted herself, which took a bit longer than one would think given the poor girl had not eaten in days. Moka had groaned about how much the other Moka was annoyed with her before they finally headed out to the commissary for food.
Kurumu sighed again, knowing this guy would show up in a matter of minutes. With how quickly he moved, there might not be any warning. She glanced at the dark tunnel carved into the hillside that only allowed the passage of Mr. Nurari's vehicles.
"I wonder how he's going to get you out of the barrier."
"Maybe the same way he got in the barrier."
That made sense. There probably were other methods of leaving the barrier that they were unaware of. Possibly some form of time manipulation like Yukari theorized. She supposed it did not matter.
Moka stuffed the remaining half of her sandwich in her mouth as she patted Kurumu's shoulder. The vampire gestured at a pair of large, young men approaching. Both men had their rich black hair pulled up in a tail, one favoring the right while the other favored the left. They had black shirts which hugged their stocky torsos so closely that every row of muscle announced its presence. The short sleeves looked like they were on the verge of splitting from the massive biceps. The skimpy shorts that skirted their waists poorly concealed their male parts but at least assured her that it was fabric and not black paint.
Kurumu got to her feet first, lending an arm for Moka to pull herself up. She was uneasy with the new company. They both had broad jaws and bulbous noses and were about the size of the catcher from the baseball team, in girth and height. That teacher, Mr. Ikuhata, was the only person that came to mind that she could comfortably say was bigger than this pair.
"Do we have guys like that in our school?"
Moka muffled an answer, covering her mouth as she continued to chew. Laughter caught her attention.
"Not exactly what I had envisioned."
The dangerous man from yesterday whisked into existence nearby. He wore the same outfit from before as he grinned while leaning against the sign post. He crossed his arms about his chest.
"Where's the drama? The betrayal?"
He clasped a hand to his chest as he held the other one out.
"How could you? I trusted you!"
Kurumu glanced at the two men whom had slowed to a stop. One cracked his knuckles in his meaty fists. The other pulled out a wooden paddle that must have been strapped to his broad back. The width of the wood was easily bigger than her thigh, which he smacked against his open palm.
"Where is Fusamina?"
The lithe man slinked away from the post, rolling his wrist in a flamboyant gesture.
"All in good time, my dear. Allow me to introduce my two associates, the Hajimeru twins from your lovely school. They are not so pleased with what you did to their good friend Midou."
Kurumu scowled. She glanced at Moka whom was patting the top of her breasts. Shaking her head, Kurumu gestured at the pair.
"Why don't you tell them the truth about how you forced Yakumaru to kill him?"
The man laughed merrily.
"Did you hear that? This girl whom charms men to do her bidding wants you to believe that I made my dear Mako hurt Midou. That's preposterous."
"What to expect? News club be nothing but puppets to spread the lies of the PSC."
"Be rights, bro. They be chums with authority now."
"Fight the authority!"
"Down with the racist regime!"
One man raised his fists with a hearty growl while the other joined in, pounding his paddle in the dirt. As the two carried on with comments against the biased faculty, Kurumu sighed. She guessed these two simpletons were Outcast pawns being used. Moka had bent over to fetch her can of juice. The vampire downed the contents in several, noisy gulps.
"Where is Fusamina?"
"My, my, you are impatient. I will give him to you when I have Ms. Akashiya."
Moka made a loud gasp. She glanced down at the can.
"Is there a recyclable container nearby?"
"This is serious, Moka."
"Recycling is a serious thing, Kurumu."
Kurumu sighed, holding her hands up.
"Moka agreed to come here with me, but it looks like you don't have Fusamina. We are leaving now."
Before she could take a step, the man appeared in front of her with a sly grin. He snatched her by the forearm, yanking her away from Moka while wagging a finger at her.
"No, no. That's no fun. I have to keep all my promises."
"What are you talking about?"
"I promised these fine gentlemen that they could exact revenge upon the horrible pureblood that killed their glorious leader."
"You promised you wouldn't hurt her."
"I made no such promise. I do need her alive, so we have reached an agreement."
Moka juggled the can from hand to hand, regarding the two grinning brutes.
"What sort of agreement?"
The blond raised his hand and snapped his finger.
"That's the sign."
The other frowned, gesturing at the post.
"No, that's the sign."
"The snap was the sign, dummy."
"Oh, right. We have fun now?"
"That we do."
The brutes chortled as they approached Moka. The vampire frowned, tossing the can which promptly bounced off the broad head of the one with the paddle. The brute paused with a scowl.
"You're out."
The pair paused, regarding each other in confusion.
"He's out. I hit him with the can and it hit the ground, so he's out. No fun for him."
The two boys snarled at the vampire.
"What you playing at?!"
Moka shrugged.
"Those are the rules."
"Why you!"
One grabbed the other by the shoulder.
"What if she right?"
"But I want fun too!"
"Rules are rules."
"But no fair! I not know!"
Kurumu shook her head as the two bickered.
"What did you promise them?"
The man chuckled, still holding her firmly by the arm.
"I said they could do whatever they wanted to her, provided she lives. I'm guessing young men given free license to a woman probably have some ideas."
Kurumu tugged wildly on her arm, but his grip was like iron. She also had some ideas what boys would do. In Moka's current state, she might not be able to fend them off.
"Moka, run!"
Moka frowned.
"But that wasn't the plan."
"The plan? Oh, that sounds interesting. Do go on."
"Let me go!"
Kurumu grabbed at his hand with her other as she tried to pry his fingers free. He grinned malevolently.
"Since when does a vampire need a plan? Those two are just low bred monsters. Not worthy opponents for a noble vampire."
Moka darted aside as one of the boys lunged at her. She turned sharply, throwing a palm out to strike against the paddle whistling in on her. The wood shattered about her hand. Moka hopped back, shaking her wrist vigorously as the brute stared dumbly at the wooden stump in his grip.
"You're out."
"Not fair."
The other boy snatched for Moka, catching her dress as she darted back. The grab was so fierce that the boy yanked Moka forward while the fabric gave under the strain.
"Moka!"
"Now this is interesting."
The vampire twisted away with tearing sounds. She hopped back up into the air, landing on her hands to spring back on her feet. A huge swath of black fabric had been torn off the midsection of her dress, baring the band of her cream, lace bra.
"Are you waiting for me to show Fusamina to you? I'm afraid I had no plans of doing that."
Kurumu scowled.
"The deal is off!"
"I never said I would give him up first. I will take you to him after they've had their fun."
Kurumu grimaced.
"Moka, run!"
The man laughed, squeezing her forearm painfully.
"Why should she run? She's a vampire. Surely these two are not a match for her."
He was toying with them. He probably knew about the seal that restrained Moka's powers, considering he wanted Moka for her special blood.
"Even the faculty knows this. A vampire can't really be kidnapped against her will. Her and that boy of hers planned to kill all of Midou's group from the start with the false pretense of being in danger."
Moka twisted to evade the thrown remnants of a club only to be slammed to the ground by the other's fist. Fabric was torn again, leaving nothing buy white panties and shoes. Moka tried to scoot back as the other boy slithered over to hold her down by the shoulders.
"Out, but still help!"
"All fair. Now stay still."
Moka struggled but a heavy fist struck her midsection. The vampire gasped as the boys chortled.
"Not listen good."
"Wonder how she tastes?"
"I want taste too!"
"You out, sorry."
"No fair!"
The boys argued as the other grabbed one of Moka's legs, hauling it up. With his other hand he grabbed at the white fabric.
"Moka."
"See. Anyone that powerful that doesn't resist, must truly want it."
There was a sound of fabric tearing and the boys laughed.
"Thanks for the meal."
He let go. She had no idea why, but he let go. She launched through the air in two strides, her wings knifing out her back. She hit the boy on top of Moka at such a speed she could only dare hit him with her head tucked low. It was like flying into a brick wall.
She tumbled, losing sight of her surroundings. She heard groaning nearby as she rolled up on her feet. The brute holding Moka down by the shoulders frowned deeply.
"Naughty girl. Clearly you don't want me to do whatever I please with Ms. Akashiya."
Kurumu darted away from the sound of his voice, but was shoved hard to the ground. She scowled up at the grinning man.
"You must have something against me breaking that girl's seals. At least the one we were watching would not mean the end of the world."
The other brute stumbled back to his feet. He wobbled unsteadily, still clutching some torn white fabric.
"The rules have changed. You can have both of them."
"We can?"
"Am I still out?"
"You are till you put yourself in."
There was a pause but then both boys laughed. Shuddering at the sick jokes, Kurumu sat up. She reached up with her hand, her index finger stretching out as a talon. Noting his amused expression, she slashed the bottom lobe of her left ear off.
"Taking a cue from young Mako, are we? It would be such a waste for you to throw away your life."
Kurumu let her tail slither up her back, petals opening.
"Well if you plan to be inside me, I have to be prepared."
The man laughed and she snaked her tail about her head. His eyes flashed but the world went still.
Darkness.
"What happened?"
"The light gone."
"How?"
"Quiet, you idiots."
The sky turned a dark red as she stood up. They were still at the bus stop, but the gentle breeze was gone. She had decided against wind or fragrances. She wanted them to know.
There was a blood curdling scream. The meaty, muscled limb was tossed in front of her as the young man and the brute that faced her came into focus. Another limb was thrown between her and the other men. The blond was undisturbed by the gory display as more dismembered limbs were casually tossed into the mix. The other brute was horrified.
"Lilith's Eye."
A bloodied, silver haired vampire stalked into view. A gown of flowing crimson enveloped her body. She held the massive head of her assailant by the knot of hair. She tossed it over to join the limbs
"Little slow, Kurumu."
"Sorry. You know the plan was to wait for a sign of Fusamina."
The blond clucked his tongue.
"I must admit, I had only heard rumors about this. It certainly was not something I would expect from a little girl."
"What is this place?"
The man turned and flashed a smile to the brute.
"Keep them occupied for me."
The blond vanished in an instant.
Kurumu paused, collecting her thoughts. She ignored the screams of the other brute as Moka tore her other guest into pieces. She was aware that this man could not actually leave her mind. The issue was figuring out where and when he would go.
"Kurumu?"
She held a hand up as she continued reviewing her memories and fantasies. He would probably go to a place forgotten or painful.
"Did he escape?"
"Found you."
There were back in the abandoned warehouse. The weak cries of Yukari mixed with the chuckles of dead boys. The blond was perched on the ladder in the corner of the memory. He sighed, jumping down to the main floor, causing the memory to shift to the grisly aftermath of Tsukune's rampage.
"There truly is no way out of your head."
Kurumu gestured at him as mirror images of her blinked into existence about him. Each held out a hand.
"You will surrender Fusamina to me."
"I don't think so."
Moka stalked over to stand between Kurumu.
"You underestimate my friend. Your choices are limited."
The man laughed heartily, shaking his head.
"I can't give you Fusamina. I regret to tell you that I was not fully convinced that the young man had survived until I happened to overhear your desperate cry for help."
Kurumu processed that revelation.
"Why were you on campus?"
"Whom gave you the information about my friends?"
"Why do you want Moka's blood?"
"Who do you work for?"
The blond twitched, his smile faltering.
"I see why Mrs. Shuzen invests so heavily in your race. Truly a dangerous breed."
"You will answer my questions."
The many eyes of Kurumu glowed in unison as she stared at him from all directions.
"How about a new deal? If you release me, I won't kill both of you."
Moka chuckled.
"You don't seem to understand how this works."
"Oh, I am aware of the rumors. Killing her might kill me. But I do think she will be willing to bargain."
The blond flashed over to Moka in an instant, throwing a fist that Kurumu took through the chest. A part of her died as she slashed at him from different angles that he zipped through time to avoid contact.
The background shifted as he cycled through her memories. She gave pursuit, pushing Moka along into different terrains. Moka was clearly having trouble regaining her footing in each new setting, often forcing Kurumu to die in her place from attacks the vampire was too slow to evade.
"You can't do this forever, little one."
After about the sixth or seventh time, the blond grabbed up Moka in Kurumu's bedroom, holding a blade to the vampire's throat.
"It ends now. Let me go, or I end her."
The blade sliced back through his palm and hurtled about through an empty place where he had been. Moka staggered as they reappeared on the beach, waves crashing upon the shore. The blond staggered away as Kurumu closed in on him from all directions.
"You are persistent. But she is your weakness."
The ground became solid as they stood in the shattered remains of a mansion. A monstrous hand was upstretched in the midst of the rubble with a woman pierced through at all angles, hovering in the palm.
"Shall we watch your beloved mother die, Akashiya?"
Moka sprang for the laughing man with a fury that surprised Kurumu. Giving the vampire space, she watched as Moka darted about with kicks and lunges that failed to connect. The man hopped and blinked around the setting without a care in the world.
"Such a nice memory. Lovely isn't it? To die protecting someone you love."
Moka cried out as her mother was snapped out of view. The tiny version of her collapsed in the palm. The blond blinked up atop the palm, picking the silver haired child up as the pinkish color started to settle in. He grinned down at Moka.
"I wonder what will happen if I kill this girl."
The blond stabbed through the child and a hole appeared in Moka's chest. The vampire collapsed, clutching her breast.
A ring of Kurumu settled about the palm, staring coldly at him. The blond smiled, raising his hand.
"You will let me go, child, or I will destroy this girl's mind. The only thing that matters to us is her blood. Once we remove the seal, we don't care if there is no mind left within this body."
She wanted this over. She wanted Moka gone. It was that simple.
The blond stood alone in the tulip field that overlooked the ocean. Kurumu regarded him calmly as he brought his palm up to cup his chin. He sighed.
"Now this truly complicates things."
"You will answer my questions."
"Release me."
She grabbed his leg as she became the ground at his feet. He kicked but she was his clothes, sliding up his body.
"Fucking parasite."
He slashed and tore into her as she crawled up his skin, becoming the air he breathed. She was inside him and then it was dark.
Violent. Hatred. Prejudice. He tore at her mind as she pushed into his. Expanding and fragmenting. She cycled through memories like he had cycled through hers. He would push her out quickly, but she would get glimpses with thoughts attached to them.
There was a man with many faces. A cigarette often perched in his lips. She knew his name. She knew his goal. She knew what he was and the task he gave to this man.
White warmth pressed against her as she flailed in her crib. She felt so small and tiny. Helpless.
"Little bitch. I'll smother you."
She laughed at him as she stood at the door in her mother's place.
"I know who you are. Yoshii Kiria. And I know who you work for. I know why you want Moka."
Yoshii scowled, leaving the baby alone.
"Then you realize why you must die."
"I know he will be very inconvenienced if you die."
Yoshii took in a deep breath. He cocked his head with his eyes closed, smiling.
"At least I shall die while inside a beautiful young girl."
He flashed upon her, slashing through her. She laughed as he cut pieces of her down.
Her vision was blurry as she felt hot wetness pouring down the left side of her torso. Strong hands held her tail, forcing it away as fluids gushed all over her body. She twitched and jerked her arms up, gasping for air. She had no feeling in her legs but someone was pressed to her back. An arm was draped over her shoulder, gripping her tit firmly.
"Do you have him?"
"Don't worry. Nothing gets free of my threads."
Swirls of colors refused to take shape as she blinked her eyes. She gasped and gagged, unable to make words. Sounds were distant and muddled, but she could tell it was Ginei whom held her. She bit her tongue accidentally, grimacing and whimpering as she twitched again.
"Easy, Kurumu. Easy."
Her stomach turned and she coughed up lunch. It hurt so much. Her nose burned as she retched a second time as hands guided her over to her side. A hand firmly rubbed her back.
"Koike, Utsubari. Take the Hajimeru twins back to the main office. I think it best we let the Headmaster personally deal with this one."
"Who's this other guy, Moka?"
"We don't know."
Kurumu took a ragged breath as the world spun slowly into focus. She was still where she had been. She glanced up, noting Koike was frowning at the brute whom had held the paddle. Kitajima stood beside him, scratching his chin.
Moka was not far from the pair. A PSC jacket had been draped over her shoulders, which she hugged closely about her frame. It was long enough to hang halfway down her thighs.
"You okay, Kurumu?"
She coughed, turning back over. The other brute was being hauled up on the back of a PSC junior. Must be Utsubari. She had seen him that one time when Lady Hineri had thanked them a few weeks ago.
"This one is coming to."
A jacketless Kusutate stalked over to the blond whom was wobbling about on his knees. White threads had been wrapped around his torso with a string that stretched over to where Lady Hineri stood. Lady Hineri was chewing while rolling the thread up between her hands.
Ginei gently jostled her. He was in a dark green dress shirt and had a dark red bandana.
"Who is this guy, Kurumu?"
"Enemy."
Ginei chuckled but she scooted back, tugging on him as she tried to get to her feet.
"Whoa, whoa."
"Enemy! Enemy! Kill him! You have to kill him!"
"Ms. Kurono."
Her eyes were wide as she shook her head. She knew what he was. They had no choice.
"You have to kill him! You have to!"
"Calm down, Ms. Kurono. We will handle this."
"Kill him! Kill him!"
"Take him with the others, Kusutate."
"Yes, Lady Hineri."
The blond laughed as Kusutate firmly gripped the enemy by the shoulder. Yoshii lifted his head with a wide grin.
"I should kill you, Ms. Kurono."
"On your feet, pretty boy."
Kusutate hauled the blond up by his shoulders.
"But I have other things to do."
The threads burst out, white threads striking against Lady Hineri, Kurumu and Ginei. The red eye glowed as Yoshii swung about sharply and sprung off. He was gone in an instant.
"Tsuya?"
Kusutate stared dumbly at them. His upper half fell back while everything above the waist lingered upright for another second. Lady Hineri collapsed to her knees as the other half of her shadow fell forward.
"What happened?!"
Lady Hineri crawled forward, shaking her head with eyes wide.
"Tsuya?"
Ginei gripped Kurumu firmly as he tugged her protectively close.
"Get a staff member now, Kousuke!"
"Right!"
The other large PSC junior looked about wildly, confused as he slowly carried his burden over to the group. Lady Hineri completed her slow crawl to touch the cheek of her companion.
"What happened?"
"He's gone, Utsubari. That guy… I didn't even see where he went."
"Pick up Tsuya."
Lady Hineri looked up at the tall PSC junior.
"Help me, Shun."
"Lady Hineri."
She shook her head as she caressed Kusutate's feathered locks.
"He needs a hospital. You can get there fast."
"I… he's dead."
"Please."
The tall boy sighed, glancing over at them.
"You're faster, Morioka. Will you?"
Ginei sighed, relaxing his grip on Kurumu.
"Sure. I owe her that."
Letting Kurumu go, Ginei stalked over to help Hineri pick up the pieces of her friend.
It had been a long day. After a late dinner, Moka and Tsukune walked slowly beside her on the way to the suites while Mizore shadowed them a few steps behind.
Kurumu was surprised at the whistle's range, but Ginei admitted he had been in his dorm room at the time. He had arrived at the scene, realized he needed help and had sprinted about campus to find the PSC. For some reason the older members had all been together, Lady Hineri having Sabaku check on the newspaper club while they assisted Ginei.
While Ginei had taken Kusutate's remains to the hospital with Lady Hineri, they had walked with the other PSC members back to the school and reported the event to the Headmaster. The Hajimeru twins were known Outcasts and senior members of the rugby team. From what she gathered, she imagined the two would be expelled under the pretense of terrorism when they recovered from their stupor.
Utsubari, Kitajima and Koike accurately described Yoshii and she had surrendered his name. The boys had never heard of him, but the Headmaster discouraged them from spreading this news around the school. It was his opinion that they still needed a witness to tie Yoshii and Fujisaki to the situation, and he had his doubts that the Hajimeru twins would be of any use to them. Everything was riding on them finding Fusamina.
Discouraged by notions that they would still be expelled despite her efforts of proving that everything had been manipulated by an organization intent on using Moka to awaken a beast to destroy the fucking world… Kurumu had accompanied Moka to the locker room so the vampire could wear something other than the jacket of a deceased young man. As her outfit was thoroughly soiled, Kurumu had decided it would be best to also change in gym clothes so Moka would not look so out of place.
They had returned to the computer room where the club was working on the paper. A good ten or so minutes had been lost with all the hugs and chatter as everyone welcomed Moka back. It had been a good change of mood, though the second year PSC members stood off in a corner with serious expressions, likely discussing the loss of Kusutate. The lurked for a good half hour before Sabaku dismissed the PSC.
Kurumu had been able to write her baseball article thanks to Tokori handing off her schoolbag to Tora this morning at breakfast. Tokori had no idea what Kurumu was doing but figured Tora would need the notes. There had been nobody home to open the suite for her until after six since Mrs. Meirowasa had spent the day house hunting with her son while Tokori worked her part time job.
Tora had finished up her article about the monstrel attack which she planned to submit to the student council for approval. Aware of the disbelief inspired by Moka's heritage, Kurumu had encouraged Tora to make Moka's kidnapping appear to be reluctant due to threats on Yukari's life. Moka had confirmed that to mostly be true, allowing them to avoid mentioning Moka's weakness due to her seal.
Due to concerns on how the public would receive the article, they had decided to let Honda write the piece on the events involving the two Akaname boys in class six whom devoured several students over the past months. The emotional girl had cried while reading her article to them, expressing how horrible it would be for a parent to know that their child whom they had raised for more than a decade had simply ceased to be due to the cruel decisions of a couple of sociopaths. She encouraged everyone to be kinder to each other, since every person you met was loved by someone.
Tsukune ended up writing a short article for the arcade club. He had been spending quite a bit of time with Kinusawa and had met up with the arcade club advisor, Mr. Shirakawa Ketsuro, whom happened to be the first year instructor for the business class. The teacher was a Yokai alumni from Joetsu and had been hired on in 85 at the start of the program. He understood that most of the students in the club were either from Joetsu or Sado and that all of them were fellow Kappas.
Kinusawa had also suggested for Tsukune to write something for the fishing club, since it had suffered a few casualties in the Akaname incident. Tsukune wanted their approval before letting Kinusawa arrange a meeting with Ms. Nakamura, the club's advisor. Like Ms. Nekonome, she was not actively present for most club meetings. Kurumu remembered the woman from Tsukune's birthday pool party, recalling that she was also a Yokai alumni from Joetsu with a younger cousin in Kana's homeroom.
Mizore had shown up late in the afternoon, confessing no progress in her article. She had been spending most of her time jotting down random sequences. Tora had read her ides over but admitted she had no clue what Ginei was expecting. Tora had tried to talk to Ginei during dinner on this topic, but he felt it more enjoyable to flirt and grope, which was not limited to Tora. He even gave poor Honda a squeeze, claiming he wanted an accurate before and after when comparing the breasts of a fifteen year old and a sixteen year old.
As far as birthday plans went, Ginei had been annoyingly evasive with the details, exchanging knowing winks and grins with Tobuyoku. All they knew for certain was that he had rented out a banquet hall for a few hours with a catered lunch. He gave out the address, confirming it was not far from the bowling alley, in case anyone was unable to make it to Tora's flying lesson tomorrow. Figuring since they would be in Mononoke, Kurumu hoped she could also squeeze in some time with Nerume.
Kurumu sighed as her thoughts drifted to Yukari. The girl had spent the entire week at home with her parents and Rubi. She probably had seen a proper doctor by now. She would figure out what happened to her, regardless of having no memory of it. Kurumu imagined she was in for a long scolding when the girl came back to Yokai. She hoped she would still be here to receive it.
"I wish I knew things would turn out right."
"Huh?"
"Just thinking about Yukari and whether or not we can find Fusamina to avoid being expelled."
"It would be nice to have her around. She would create a magic spell to track him."
They reached the divergence of paths, angling towards the circle of buildings that housed the girls. The commissary was lit up in the center of the circle, the double doors facing them. The first building on their right belonged to the seniors for track. She knew there were other girls that lived there too, but as far as she was concerned, that was the track building. Her building which was further down the circle on the right was mostly Uonuma girls.
"We should take Moka home first."
Moka shook her head as she covered a yawn.
"I can manage."
"I'm in no hurry to return home. I don't think Tokori wants me in a room alone with her brother."
Moka blushed.
"I doubt Ms. Meirowasa suspects you would do anything with her brother."
"I'm joking. Tokori doesn't like being alone with her brother either. He's rather annoying."
Tsukune chuckled.
"He's probably just bored."
"Why are we stopping?"
Kurumu smiled back at Mizore. She held a hand out.
"You don't have to walk behind us, Mizore."
Mizore cocked her head. Her hands were thrust in her center pocket as usual. She glanced away from the offered hand.
"It's easier to watch over Tsukune this way."
"Ren is starting to call her my stalker."
Kurumu smiled, recalling Ren was Kinusawa's first name. There were not that many boys that she did think of on a first name basis. Tsukune and Ginei were the first two that came to mind. Well… there was Ushio but only because he had insisted so much. They had a home game today against that school the baseball and softball teams were playing against. She wondered if their teams had won.
"I think the archery meet is tomorrow."
"Huh?"
Kurumu nodded as she stared off. She was sure Juri had mentioned that to her earlier this week.
"Just thoughts. Maybe we should walk Mizore home first."
Mizore frowned.
"I'm not going home. I have to walk Tsukune back to his dorm."
Tsukune laughed, shaking his head.
"You don't have to do that."
"I don't mind."
Tsukune sighed.
"I can't have you walking back here by yourself."
Mizore cocked her head.
"I'll be fine."
"That defeats the whole point of walking you girls home."
Kurumu grinned at his frustration.
"You're in much more danger than any of us."
Tsukune regarded her sternly.
"Is that really the case? I may not know what is going on, but I'm pretty sure the two of you didn't come to school so you could bring your gym clothes back for laundry."
Kurumu sighed. Everybody knew the excuse made more sense if they were not wearing them. She had left her outfit in her gym locker. After pitching Moka's tattered dress in one of the garbage cans inside the kitchen, they had went up to the computer room and given Kusutate's jacket to Sabaku, thankful that the other boys had explained the situation to him.
"It's no big deal, Tsukune."
"It is a big deal. You don't need to keep secrets from me."
Kurumu glanced at Moka. The vampire made a slight smile as she stepped up to touch his arm.
"Is it wrong that I'm wearing my gym clothes?"
He stiffened from the touch and backed up a step.
"I… well no."
"Am I weird to want to wash them?"
"Of course not. It's just… well… why wear them?"
"Am I not pretty in my gym clothes?"
Kurumu grabbed Moka by the shoulder and pulled her away from the flustered boy.
"Don't be asking my boyfriend if you're pretty."
"Aren't you worried he doesn't like how you look in yours?"
Kurumu smirked with a glance at Tsukune. She was well aware he enjoyed the look, suspecting he knew she was not wearing anything beneath these bloomers despite there being no visible signs. It did bother her a little that he might be having similar desires for Moka, as the vampire was in the exact same state.
"He's probably more interested in getting me out of mine."
"I didn't say that!"
She cupped her left breast, giving herself a squeeze as she smiled at the flustered young man.
"You were thinking it."
"What are we doing?"
Kurumu smiled at Mizore.
"Tsukune loves to see a girl in her gym clothes."
"I do own a set if you want to see."
"That will not be necessary!"
"That's not nice, Tsukune."
"What?"
"I'm sure Mizore looks pretty in her gym clothes."
Mizore shrugged nonchalantly. She swung the stick in her mouth to the other corner with her tongue.
"I could sit in the stands and watch you play ball instead of being beneath them."
"Shouldn't you go play tennis with the rest of the girls?"
Mizore cocked her head and frowned at him.
"But I can't watch you if I'm over there."
Kurumu sighed, feeling the slight temperature change as Mizore's mood soured.
"You should let her walk with you back to your dorm."
"Which brings me back to not feeling comfortable with Mizore walking home by herself."
Kurumu smirked.
"Maybe she should spend the night with you in her gym clothes."
It was just a random thought spoken in jest, but it caused everyone to blush.
"Don't say that!"
Kurumu chuckled at his distress.
"You shouldn't laugh, Kurumu."
"But it's funny."
"I wouldn't mind."
Kurumu smiled at Mizore, whom was staring at the dirt.
"You would need your incense burners."
Mizore nodded, slipping off into the shadows.
"Wait. Are you encouraging this?"
Kurumu was amused Mizore was so willing. She was mildly curious how far the girl would go.
"The incense will help regulate your temperature for her presence."
She smiled at the memory of the one time she had spent the night with Mizore. It had been right before the world got crazy.
"Are you breaking up with Tsukune?"
She laughed, shaking her head at Moka's question, unsure if that was hope or disappointment.
"No. I trust Tsukune."
Tsukune winced, clearly uncomfortable.
"I… nothing."
Kurumu perked up.
"Oh? So you're keeping secrets now?"
Tsukune sighed, shaking his head.
"No. I just… would rather spend the night with you."
Kurumu bounced over to him, folding him up in a tight embrace. She breathed in his scent as she rubbed her cheek against his black shirt. She felt him relax, his hands touching her sides. He pulled her up onto her toes, pushing her head aside with his as breath tickled her neck.
"Tsukune!"
The cry was followed with her being tugged back roughly. She stumbled as her head was pulled against soft breasts. Hands folded protectively about her.
"What were you doing?"
She saw the dazed look in his eyes. He shook his head, managing a smile.
"Sorry. I… I'm sorry, Moka."
"What's the matter?"
Moka squeezed her tighter, to her annoyance.
"You should go home."
"I thought we would wait-"
"You're being rude."
Tsukune held his hands up defensively.
"Wait! I'm sorry, Moka. I shouldn't have tried to kiss her with you there. I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking."
Kurumu struggled to get free of Moka's loosened grip. The vampire frowned, confused. She nodded.
"Oh. Right. It's okay for you to kiss your girlfriend. Yea."
"Moka?"
Kurumu touched the vampire's arm and Moka smiled.
"I'm sorry. I was confused."
Kurumu hugged Moka tightly. The vampire did not hesitate to return the embrace. It was such a warm and soothing moment, eventually ruined by Tsukune's lechery. She sighed, wondering if that boy would ever stop fantasizing of having both of them.
"Feeling better?"
Moka sighed, relaxing her grip.
"I suppose. She was worrying over nothing."
"What do you mean?"
"She thought Tsukune was going to start necking you. She forgets kissing looks similar."
Kurumu chuckled, glancing at Tsukune whom was nervously rubbing the back of his neck.
"He's tried to bite me before."
"She's mine, Tsukune. You can't have her."
"I wasn't trying to bite her."
Kurumu smiled, unsure how she should feel about this development.
"Have you had any urges since leaving the hospital?"
"Urges?"
"The Headmaster said Tsukune might start craving familiar blood."
"Not really. This is the first I've seen Moka and you've been avoiding me all week."
She frowned.
"I don't think I have."
"He's too fresh to be drinking blood. It's not safe."
"I'm not drinking anyone's blood."
Moka squeezed Kurumu in her arms for a moment. She relaxed her grip to look at Kurumu.
"Is it safe for Mizore to spend the night with him?"
"I imagine safer for her than you or me."
Tsukune laughed nervously, rubbing the back of his head.
"I honestly miss having the two of you around. I haven't held Kurumu in days. I really miss that."
Kurumu sighed. She grabbed Moka by the hand and walked over to Tsukune.
"You be nice with Mizore, okay?"
"Of course I will be."
She leaned up on her toes and kissed his cheek. She darted back out of his reach before he could pull her in for more, causing Moka to stumble. She waved at him as she strolled away with Moka.
"Have a good night."
Moka was shaking her head with a frustrated look as they steadily made their way to the first building on the left. Tsukune called out his farewell which prompted Moka to turn with a smile and a quick wave. The vampire returned her attention on their journey.
They said nothing in the short walk to Moka's apartment, which was the furthest away on the first floor, facing the commissary. Kurumu spied the other building further down the way, guessing Mizore was inside her apartment gathering up her things. The girl might even get courageous enough to pick out something naughty to wear.
"Oh. She sleeps naked."
"Naked?"
Kurumu shook her head, certain Mizore would not be that courageous.
"It's nothing."
Moka slowed her step only a few paces shy of their destination. Despite her agitation, Moka yawned with a heavy breath.
"You shouldn't push those two together like that."
Kurumu shrugged as Moka released her hand. The vampire unclipped her keys from the bracelet about her wrist that had the silver whistle. Kurumu had accidentally left her cards in her shorts and had not felt like running back to the school for them. She honestly had no idea which member of the Meirowasa family had her keys at this point.
"What will you do if she falls for him?"
"She already has a crush on him."
"That's more reason not to do it, Kurumu."
Kurumu chuckled as Moka unlocked the door to her suite.
"Well, Tsukune will need to be with someone after we run away together."
Moka blushed as she pulled open the door.
"That's not funny, Kurumu."
"Does that mean I can't spend the night?"
Moka smiled and nodded with her head.
"I don't know why you want to. I'm not good company after eight."
Kurumu chuckled as she stalked by Moka.
"You're safer to snuggle up with than anyone sleeping in my suite."
"I don't recall leaving the light on."
Kurumu paused, resting her hand on the half wall. The room was nothing like it had been this morning. A bed with an ebony head board with golden insets was pushed in the corner where Moka's bedding had been. A crimson comforter bled over the surface, dotted with black cushions with pink heart patterns. Black sheets were tucked around the foot of the bed, peeking out around the sturdy foot board.
Pushed up against the wall not far from the bed was a matching ebony stand with a large, silver TV. The screen was presently playing a movie. She had no idea what it was but they were kids flying around on brooms, which was weird.
Facing the TV was a wide, pink sofa with a low back. The black fedora rested on top of Moka's bear which was seated beside a girl with reddish hair. The girl hopped up at the sound of the door closing, gripping the back of the sofa as she peered at them with a slight grin.
"Kokoa?"
The smaller vampire vaulted over the sofa to land on her bare feet. She had a white tank top with thin, spaghetti straps and a pair of dark blue running shorts. Her hair hung halfway down her back, unbound.
"Hey! You got to watch this stuff."
She turned and gestured at the screen.
"The humans actually think there's enough witches to have a school. It's so stupid."
Kurumu glanced at Moka whom was slipping out of her shoes.
"Can I retract my offer to spend the night?"
"No."
Kurumu chuckled, lowering down to remove her shoes.