My Devotion

by Ravenhale1

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

32. Pitcher Perfect

Kurumu gasped as she struggled against a heavy sheet draped over her head and torso. Freeing her head, the blaring, repetitive sound of her alarm became clear. She reached about in the darkness for the noisome device as her eyes adjusted to the room. In her clumsiness, she knocked the alarm off its perch, forcing her to scoot closer to the sofa's arm and reach down to silence the bothersome box.

She yawned, picking the clock up to note the time. Groaning as she dropped it back on the floor, she crawled off the back of the sofa. Turning about, she hauled the blanket up into her arms and draped it over her shoulder. She grabbed the rounded end of the back, lifting it back upright which resulted in an audible click. Stepping away from the couch, she folded up the blanket.

Kurumu was unsure how she should feel about her relationship with Kokoa. The vampire had demanded her company for a trip to Mononoke with the intent of dressing her up in all sorts of pretty garments. She would have refused if Tora and Kiki had not tagged along.

To Kokoa, she was a life sized doll. Their first of two stops had been at the Clique which was where Kokoa had picked up the maid uniform. They had burned almost two whole hours with all three girls pitching in ideas to create beautiful ensembles to stuff Kurumu into. About a half hour in, the tailor settled on taking measurements and orders, realizing he did not have the time to adjust multiple garments. By the end of the excursion, Kokoa had selected eight different outfits ranging from an olive suspender skirt with long sleeved, black blouse to a hoop ballroom gown fit for a foreign wedding if not for the crimson color and golden lace. With some outfits requiring additional fabric to be ordered, the tailor had made an appointment for a final fitting the weekend prior to term exams.

After Kokoa treated them to a late dinner, Kurumu had asked about the fancy outfits in Kokoa's closet, which turned out to be hand downs from Kahlua. Kokoa clearly thought highly of her elder sister, scolding Kiki for suggesting anyone trying on garments that had once clothed Kahlua. Despite the touchy response on that matter, most of the walk home had been amicable chatter about the class dynamics of Kiki's homeroom. Kokoa was clearly interested in any information regarding Fukai Ishiko.

It had been after ten when Kurumu stopped in her suite to acquire clothes for today. Kokoa had not been interested in sleeping right away, popping in the second of the Potter movies. The vampire had quite the DVD collection, owning familiar titles like the Lord of the Rings trilogy. She also had several animated movies like Shrek and Monsters Inc. There was a pirate movie that looked promising and some Samurai movie with that famous actor whom her mother liked. The guy that had the girl at hello. She honestly did not recall the name.

Having put away the blanket in the closet, Kurumu wandered over to the bathroom. She turned on the light and hiked the silky black chemise up to her waist before plopping down atop the toilet. She sighed as she emptied her bladder.

She did like this lingerie which she had picked out at Bows and Strings, their second stop which they had squeezed in before dinner. Kokoa had not shown any interest in selecting anything erotic for her, suggesting mature and comfortable attire such as nightgowns and camisoles. Kurumu had been content with three colors of this style, having a powder blue and a cream white both stuffed in a black bag by her shoes.

Flushing the toilet, Kurumu regarded the tub. She probably did not have the time, but she had not had a bath since the field trip. It was so much better than showers. Tugging the garment over her head and setting it on the toilet tank, Kurumu turned on the faucet to fill the bath.

Kokoa had added some furnishings to this bathroom. There was a small, black wood shelf beneath the sink which contained cleaning products and toilet paper. Against the far wall was a rack with towels, dental stuff and all the bathing essentials. The black, plastic stool was at the bottom of the rack beside a bucket which had a plunger and toilet whisk stowed inside.

Kurumu had forgotten her shower tote in her bathroom, forcing her to pick through the many bottles of scented soaps and wash stored on the rack. She wondered if tangerine was worth a try. It smelled nice, but so did peppermint. She smiled at the thought of Tsukune sniffing her hair while holding her.

Kokoa's towels were so plush and fluffy. Kurumu grabbed the peppermint wash and shampoo as well as a black washcloth. She would come for the big body towel later. Dragging the stool over with her, she set the bottles and rag on the toilet seat before sitting down and seizing the showerhead.

She sighed as she moistened her short locks with the wand before setting it back in the tub. It had been six weeks since Hiboshi had burned off most of her lovely mane of hair. It would probably be another six weeks before she could make a cute short tail in the back. She wondered if she should shorten the top to match the sides. She might be able to do a top knot, though suspected that would look stupid. She sighed again, squirting a bit of shampoo in her palm to work through her locks.

She still wondered why Kokoa was completely convinced they would not be expelled. Tora had brought up the topic but Kokoa had been quick to dismiss it. The girl had firmly assured them that she should not be returning home prior to the end of term. She only knew that her part in whatever it was they would do to avoid expulsion was small and she refused to explain further because that might change things.

Moka would not be returning to class three. The sisters had dined with the Headmaster Sunday evening, discussing Kokoa's homeroom and electives. She had been given the choice of being added to class six or class nine due to the losses caused by Tsukune and the akaname boys. Kokoa had demanded sharing a gym period with Moka which required her to switch homerooms regardless of which class Kokoa picked. Kokoa had decided on class nine, not wanting to fight on an empty stomach.

They had been curious which class Moka would end up in, but Kokoa did not know. The Headmaster had to move someone around to keep Moka's art elective. Tora figured they could ask Kana about which students might be transferring to class three to take Moka's place, agreeing it would most likely be a girl.

Kurumu picked up the showerhead to thoroughly rinse her locks clear of shampoo. The room had filled up with a slight haze from the continuous hot spray from the showerhead. Realizing the tub was full, Kurumu placed the wand back in its holster and cut off the flow of water. She scooted on the stool closer to the toilet so she could fetch the washcloth.

As she dipped the rag in the hot water, she wondered how Moka felt about the switch. The vampire had not said anything about no longer being in Tsukune's homeroom. She would also no longer be in his art class. The club would become the only thing Moka had left with him. Kurumu felt she should be extra nice to Moka this morning, aware her efforts would likely go unnoticed by the drowsy vampire.

Kurumu sighed, lifting up the rag and shaking out the extra water. Leaving the rag in one hand, she squeezed some bodywash into the rag. Setting the bottle aside, she worked the rag into a healthy lather before scrubbing at her arms and upper torso. She dipped the rag for more water, not really needing more soap. Standing up, she scrubbed down her hips and legs. In moments she was satisfied she had attended to every bit of her body.

Kurumu paused a moment, wondering if she should spray herself off or not. She had already splashed quite a bit of water across the floor while doing her hair. The standing water dripped towards the drains that flanked the tub. Doubting the vampires would have need for the bathwater, Kurumu stepped over the lip and settled down in the steamy pool.

She sighed as she stretched out in the tub. It felt nice. Breathing in deep, she closed her eyes. She made small splashes to push away every last vestige of soap upon her skin. She let herself sink deeper in the water till she could feel it touch her chin.

Kurumu opened her eyes slowly at the sound of the door. Kokoa slipped into the room with a grand yawn, pulling the door shut behind her. The vampire had already untied the white floral sash fed through the loops of her satin nightgown. The girl glanced at Kurumu before slipping free of the garment and letting it fall upon the floor. The nude vampire padded over to the toilet, moving the shampoo bottle before lifting the seat and settling down.

Kurumu turned on her side, pulling herself over to the lip of the tub. The slosh of the water masked some of the tinkling as Kurumu draped her elbows over the side. The lack of depth to the tub required her to favor her right side as Kokoa yawned again.

"- be making breakfast?"

Kurumu smiled at the vampire.

"I will."

Kokoa tore off a square from the roll hanging on the wall beside the toilet. She padded herself while regarding Kurumu.

"Never heard of a servant luxuriating in her master's bath."

Kurumu shrugged.

"A bath is such a waste on a couple girls that can't use it."

Kokoa snorted as she got up and flushed the toilet. She gestured at the water.

"Move over."

Frowning, Kurumu turned back over and scooted up in a seated position. The vampire surprisingly stepped in. There was an audible crackle and the temperature of the water rose rapidly. Kokoa brought her other foot in, placing it carefully between Kurumu's legs. The girl turned away from Kurumu as she settled down in the water with her back to Kurumu.

"Kokoa?"

The girl shivered as the water surged over the lip, splashing upon the floor. She leaned back against Kurumu's breasts, reaching about for Kurumu's hands. Kokoa pulled Kurumu's hands about her midsection, letting her body relax in the volatile environment.

"Kokoa?"

"You are to address me as milady."

Kurumu grimaced, feeling uncomfortable. The hot water was tingling against her skin and it was worse where Kokoa's tiny body pressed to her. Her nipples ached in a way that confused her. It felt like she was aroused and the sensation was crawling down her torso.

"Maybe I should clean you outside the tub?"

Kokoa shuddered, tightening her grip on Kurumu's hands.

"It's fine."

"Doesn't it hurt?"

"A little."

"Then we should get out."

"Not yet."

Kurumu moaned from a slight shift. This was weird. There was nowhere to retreat and the vampire's grip was like having her wrists encased in stone. She squirmed, making another breathy whimper.

"Stop moving."

"It hurts."

It really did. Just because her body was being stupid did not change that.

"I suppose."

Kokoa allowed Kurumu to free her hands. Kurumu promptly stood up, her body shaking as her muscles continued to twitch. She stepped out of the tub causing the water to slosh about to a new equilibrium. Hunkering down on her knees, she gripped the toilet seat as she allowed her body time to recover.

"You should scrub me."

Kokoa clambered out of the bath to sit on the stool. The vampire grabbed the drenched washcloth which Kurumu had dropped by the drains. She draped it on the tub's lip before fetching the bottle of bodywash left beside the stool. Squirting soap into the rag, she handed it over to Kurumu.

"Get on with it."

Kurumu frowned as she took the rag. She looked the nude vampire over, noting her skin had reddened from the bath.

"Are you not hurt?"

"I will be fine."

Kurumu managed a smile, shuffling closer on her knees.

"Shouldn't you turn around?"

Kokoa glanced aside.

"I doubt I have anything you would be embarrassed to see."

Kurumu paused, wondering if she should say anything. She decided against it, working the soap into a lather before scooting up between Kokoa's feet. She started on Kokoa's chest, figuring it was best to work on the area the girl was most likely to be self-conscious about. The vampire settled back on the stool, sitting upright with her chin up and her arms resting at her sides.

In moments Kurumu had the small vampire's upper body covered in suds. She dipped the rag in the tub, adding more soap before turning her attention to the girl's legs. She scrubbed up Kokoa's thighs, unsure how far up she was expected to go. Deciding to simply avoid the navel, Kurumu worked the rag about the Kokoa's waist and hips.

"Have you ever bathed my sister?"

Kurumu frowned up at the girl. Kokoa was not making eye contact. Having nothing to really do in the front, Kurumu eased around to the back to start working the rag down the girl's shoulders.

"I know Tora and Kana have bathed her. During the field trip, she talked with us while we bathed."

"Mother says you have seen my real sister. Is she okay?"

Kurumu was finished with the rag so she rinsed it out in the tub. She crawled back around Kokoa so she could fetch the showerhead, figuring spraying the vampire down would be less harmful than allowing her to submerge in water.

"I suppose. She's a lot different from the Moka in your bed."

"A lot stronger."

Kurumu paused after pulling the showerhead out of its holster. She turned about, regarding Kokoa.

"Is strength that important to you?"

"Of course it is. The stronger you are, the more people will respect you."

"I think this Moka would be much more popular than the one sealed away."

Kokoa snorted.

"I don't understand this girl. She's weak and timid. It's like being a vampire is an afterthought."

"But you do like her."

"I don't mind her. She's nice, but she's such a suck up. I bet she's never seriously tried to fight you for that boy you both fawn over."

"Well… Tsukune is my boyfriend."

Kokoa glanced at her sternly.

"Then why did you let her put her blood inside him?"

Kurumu shrugged, waving the showerhead.

"I'm going to rinse you. Are you ready?"

"I demand an answer!"

Kurumu supposed she had waited long enough. She turned on the flow, causing the vampire to shriek under the steamy spray. Suds were quickly pushed off her red skin as Kokoa held her hands up to shield herself from the merciless torrent. Kurumu moved the showerhead about, amused as Kokoa tried to move her defensive hands with each angle. It did not take too long to get most of the lather off.

Satisfied, Kurumu lifted the showerhead up to wet down Kokoa's reddish locks. The girl bowed her head into the stream, making slight gasps and grunts. Her hands gripped her elbows as she shuddered while Kurumu kept it up till the hair was much darker.

"How often do you dye your hair?"

Kokoa did not answer, content with shivering with electric crackles. Cutting off the flow of water, Kurumu set the showerhead aside and grabbed the shampoo. She squirted some in her hands and scooted around the vampire to work her fingers into the girl's locks.

"Have you ever thought about leaving it black?"

Kokoa made a sigh of contentment, pushing her head back against Kurumu's fingers. Kurumu chuckled, letting her fingers drift down to work suds into the strands hanging down to the middle of Kokoa's back. The vampire whimpered in disappointment, arching her head back.

"Why did you stop?"

"I have to do all of your hair."

Kurumu worked her fingers though the lower tresses of Kokoa's hair. The vampire sighed, relaxing her shoulders. With a slight smile, Kurumu parted the thick hair so she could easily reach Kokoa's neck with her fingers and thumbs. The vampire groaned softly.

"Have you thought about dyeing your hair silver?"

"That would be dumb."

"Your sisters have silver hair."

"Because Mother has given her blood to Moka for as long as I can remember. Even before Momma died."

Kurumu was finished with Kokoa's hair. She slipped back around the girl's front, wondering if she should rinse the shampoo out. The girl seemed lost in her reverie.

"Before I turned two, Father ordered Mother to give her blood to Moka. Something was wrong with Akasha's blood. I guess it was making Moka wild and uncontrollable. But Mother worried we would be too weak if she gave all three of us blood every year. She told me when I got bigger, she would let me challenge my older sisters for my bloodright."

She smiled softly.

"I remember spending the New Year in bed with both legs broken when I was four because I thought Kahlua would let me win. I really wanted blood because Kahlua said it was something you gave to someone you loved. I was worried that I wasn't loved."

She looked at Kurumu.

"She praised Kahlua for showing me no mercy. And she slapped me for crying about it. If I had loved her more, I should have won. Arguing over fairness or being weaker were excuses to justify my laziness."

Kokoa smirked, glancing aside.

"So that's why I started dyeing my hair. Momma was nice to me, even if I was weak. Mother tolerated my rebellion as long as I continued to fight with Moka. If I did not at least try to fight for my bloodright, then Momma would have to leave."

Kurumu smiled.

"Did you ever ask your father for blood?"

Kokoa regarded her like she had said something horrifying.

"That's wrong."

"Why?"

Kokoa looked down, betraying discomfort.

"Because that is Father's blood."

Kurumu frowned, about to further question when she realized it was best not to. She forced a smile as she brushed back Kokoa's soapy locks behind the girl's ears.

"Are you ready for me to rinse out your hair?"

As Kokoa nodded, Kurumu fetched the showerhead out of the tub, turning on the faucet. She brought the spray up over the vampire's head, causing the girl to take her breath in with a sharp hiss. The girl lifted her hands to tousle her locks about. In less than a minute, it looked like the water was running clear. Pulling the stream aside, Kurumu shut off the showerhead and placed it back in its mount.

"I'll get the towels."

Kurumu got up and padded over the moist floor to the shelf. She selected a pair of black, plush towels, draping one of her shoulder. Kokoa had stood up and held her arms out, her head tilted aside. Kurumu supposed she was meant to start drying the girl off, promptly doing so.

"I thought things would change when Moka was sealed. It was very easy to beat this Moka. But Mother said it wasn't a fair fight so she still gave her blood to Moka. I was told I could always challenge Kahlua if I really wanted her blood, but I was hospitalized a whole week the first time I tried."

Kokoa sighed as Kurumu finished with the task. She took the towel from Kurumu's loose grip.

"Blood is what makes us strong. How did she ever expect me to win if she kept making them stronger?"

"Kokoa. I don't understand your mother at all."

Kokoa absently wrapped the towel about her torso, cinching it above the slight swell of her bosom.

"Address me properly."

Kurumu smirked, starting to towel herself off though she was already mostly dry.

"Okay, Milady. I think your mother is cruel and I don't understand why both of you love her so much."

"Everything I have is because Mother gave it to me. It's not like I earned any of it."

Kurumu finished cinching her towel about her torso, not having nearly as much flap to tuck in due to the size of her breasts. She smiled at the vampire.

"You seemed to handle water much better than your sister."

Kokoa rolled her eyes.

"One of the blessings of being beaten so often is I do have a higher threshold of pain than any of my sisters. It also helps that I took a little sip from Nagisa yesterday."

"Nagisa?"

"Taniguchi. After all those laps, I asked her if she would mind me having a little nip to perk up."

Kurumu's eyes widened.

"You drank her blood?"

Kokoa stared off with a wistful smile.

"I held her close to me as I bit into her. It was so wonderful that she peed herself."

Kurumu stared at the starry eyed vampire in disbelief. She knew those two had taken longer in the locker room before they walked to the computer class but had not thought to question why.

"Why would you do such a thing to her?"

Kokoa frowned, cocking her head.

"Blood will make me stronger."

"Then why not drink mine? I practically belong to you."

"I can't do that. Moka has marked you."

Kurumu frowned, absently rubbing her neck.

"I knew it when we first met. I could smell her mark on you."

"You can smell that?"

"You and Mr. Aono. Taking blood from either of you would be disrespectful. If I want it, I should properly challenge Moka for it."

"Why does everything in your traditions end up being determined by fighting?"

"That's normal. Father taught us the strongest always prevails."

"I don't suppose you could ask Moka."

"I would imagine asking the seal's opinion would be regarded the same as defeating the seal. It's not valid unless the deal or fight is done directly with my real sister."

Kurumu sighed, frustrated with that conclusion.

"Well… you can't just go around taking blood from your classmates."

"Only strong ones. Nagisa is very strong."

"She seemed pretty ordinary to me."

"That Nazohashi friend of yours is also strong. If Moka doesn't want her, I'll take her."

"No! I swear, you do sound like your sister. She was encouraging Moka to suck blood from every strong monster they encountered."

Kokoa paused with a confused look.

"How did that translate to marking a human? Has my sister's standards fallen that low?"

"That's my boyfriend you're talking about."

"For now. I don't know if Mother will allow him to be involved with my servant."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Mr. Aono belongs to our family. Whom he marries is up to the head of the estate, which is Mother."

Kurumu sighed, stepping back to rest her hand on the door.

"So do you think Moka should marry him?"

"I hope not."

"Well… what exactly is he supposed to do?"

"Right now I think Mother only wants him to survive because she needs him to break Moka's seal."

Kurumu blushed at the thought.

"Yea… but what about after that?"

"He has the blood of three family members in him, it would be foolish to discard him."

"So… that makes him like a brother?"

Kokoa snorted a quick laugh, shaking her head.

"He's following the path of a lover. The Headmaster thinks I should help him take blood to reduce his chance of becoming a ghoul, but he passed Mother's test."

"Does he need to drink blood?"

Kokoa paused with a contemplative look.

"It would help make him more unique. But his fangs are suppressed. Maybe if we fill a glass with fresh blood and have him swish it in his mouth."

Kurumu grimaced at the thought.

"That sounds horrible."

"It's what is done for babies. They're too fragile. You can't sink your fangs in their throat and inject your blood. You have to bleed into a bottle and let them suckle on it."

"Wouldn't that make them sick?"

Kokoa chuckled.

"You feed them first. We're not asking Mr. Aono to drink blood literally. His fangs should absorb some of the blood which is what I suspect he did yesterday."

Kurumu had no idea what Tsukune had done yesterday. For all she knew he was still in the infirmary.

"I'm hungry."

Kurumu chuckled, pushing open the door.

"Yes, we probably should get dressed."

"No, I need to get dressed. You need to start my breakfast."

"I'm not making food wearing only a towel."

Kokoa huffed, stalking by her into the main room.

"If you have time to put on proper servant attire, you may do so. Otherwise manage without."

Kurumu sighed, following after the vampire. She would rather throw that silly maid outfit on than make breakfast nude or in a towel. Kokoa paused at the closet door, looking back at her.

"I would also suggest putting aside the notion of being with Mr. Aono. Right now your only purpose should be making my life as easy as possible. I would rather you not distract yourself with a matter neither of us have control over."

"I can't do that."

Kokoa pulled the maid uniform off its hanger and handed it over.

"The only thing I want to hear from you on this is 'Yes, Milady'."

Kurumu grimaced, absently taking the garment.

"But he's my boyfriend."

Kokoa shook her head.

"He's whatever Mother decides he will be. Now make my breakfast."

Kokoa stepped into the closet, shutting the door. Kurumu regarded the outfit in her hands. She sighed, seeing no point arguing with this girl.

"Can I have my underwear?"

---

Kurumu arrived at the ballfield while in the company of Satsuki, Kiki and Tora. They were actually the last to arrive, since Lady Hineri had made a broadcast over the PA system five minutes prior to end of fourth period, requesting all softball players to change into their uniforms and report to the ballfield. If Kiki had not required a bathroom break, they could have arrived with the film club boys.

Speaking of which, it looked like the trio of first years were not the only film club members present on the field. Sangi was dressed in her gym clothes and was helping Coach Kanatoko direct the girls into groups for her club to photograph. Oyanagi was mixed in with the first years on the mound, his camera and attention fixed on the girls gathered behind home plate. Since the softball team did not have field priority, they had to do the pictures first. The girls only had use of the fields when the boys let them.

Off to the side halfway up the first base line, two young men were keeping the camcorder company. The dark haired Kuroishi had slipped his glasses up his brow, pushing his bowl cut locks up to keep them out of the way as he looked through the camcorder lens at the girls. His hand gripped the lever, steering the camcorder about the developing scene.

The blonde with him was unfamiliar. He had a feminine look about him with his short hair brushed over to his left side and his right ear pierced in blue and yellow stones. His right hand was thrust in his pocket as he regarded the girls with relaxed composure.

Tora opened the gate at the side of the dugout closest to third base. Her attention was fixed on the large group as Kiki and Satsuki slipped by. Kurumu had given each of them a single subject notebook which she had picked up at the school store this morning. She would have paid for them but Kokoa had wanted to break a ten thousand yen bill so she would have change for the vending machines.

"What should we do first?"

Kurumu shrugged, noting Lady Hineri was also dressed in her gym clothes. The leader of the PSC was standing beside the two large carts laden with prepared lunches, which were parked halfway down the third base line. It was odd seeing her by herself.

The rest of the PSC were seated in the dirt in front of the dugout. Tokori and Koike were both dressed in gym clothes while Umizake and Deshi wore the PSC uniforms. The four were seated in the dirt along the fence with Koike being the farthest away. The tawny haired second year was the only one trying to converse with Tokori beside him. Tokori was content to keep her mouth occupied with food while Umizake was his usual detached self.

Deshi was distant. While it was not unusual for her to avoid chatter with the class two girls, she had been slow to respond to the teachers today. According to Juri, Deshi had been the same way yesterday, surmising something bad must have happened to the girl. Kumiko was curious if Kurumu was aware of any strong feelings Deshi might have had with Kusutate, whom passed away over the weekend. Kumiko was unaware of the details, only knowing Kusutate had been a good friend for her sister.

The gossip had been thick among the girls today. Kurumu was bombarded with questions, including whether or not Tsurukou had been murdered by the two boys in class six whom had been killing several students over the past couple months. Hazumi wanted more details about Kurumu's mistress and Juri wanted Kurumu to report about the archery club qualifying for regionals this weekend.

"Kurumu?"

Kurumu smiled as she tore her gaze away from Deshi to regard Tora. She had absently wandered over to the food carts. Kiki and Satsuki had already grabbed their trays.

"We're going to eat first. You should too."

Kurumu nodded, regarding Lady Hineri. The senior was staring off at the scoreboard with her hands folded neatly behind the small of her back. Something about her posture was saddening. It tugged upon Kurumu, encouraging her to say something. But she had barely known Kusutate. Like she had barely known Yakumaru. It was not her place to offer empty words of solace.

Sighing, Kurumu regarded the large group of girls gathered at the plate. Coach Kanatoko Tanomi was shorter than most of them but had an older air about her. One of those young women in that group was actually an assistant from the harpy village near Uchiyama's home. Kumiko had mentioned during her interview that Kurohane Emi was a dark haired woman, but there were plenty of those in the group.

Kurumu glanced at the food cart, feeling uninterested. She wandered over to her friends whom had sat down along the fence with space for Kurumu between them and Umizake. They had tried to decide how to split up the interviews between them, though that had turned into a drawn out pep talk to reassure Kiki that harpies were not sexually immoral creatures incapable of civil discussion. It had taken most of the walk to get the timid girl to agree handling the four first years from her gym period. Satsuki noted her approach, gesturing at the cart with her chopsticks.

"Not eating?"

Kurumu shrugged, seeing no reason to explain why.

"I feel like starting the interviews."

Satsuki gestured at the group of girls.

"So how are we dividing up the older girls?"

"We should leave the seniors to Kurumu."

Satsuki shook her head at Tora's remark.

"They have like eight seniors so she can't do them all. You'll have to take a couple of them."

Kurumu nodded, noting that the girls were being rearranged into different groups.

"Didn't Hidarimeki say all the harpies were aspiring pitchers?"

Satsuki shrugged, stuffing her mouth full.

"If Tora took the two senior harpies that would leave five seniors for me."

"Sounds odd that you would not want to interview the most important player on the team."

Kurumu frowned at Tora.

"The starting pitcher."

Kurumu waved her hand dismissively.

"I don't mind that."

"I guess. How will I know which ones are the harpies?"

"We could ask Uchiyama."

"If they're all from the same home, they'll probably eat together."

Kurumu smiled as Satsuki continued to chew away. She gestured at Kiki.

"Maybe you can convince the twins to eat with you so the two of you can stick together."

"Hold up. If the two of them are only doing four each, that might be too many interviews for me."

Kurumu shrugged, regarding the group.

"I gave you my notes on Hidarimeki and Dakiashi. Those shouldn't take you too long."

"I guess that's true."

Kurumu smiled as the half the softball players walked off towards the lunch carts. Uchiyama was animatedly gesturing for some girls to gather about while the other boys headed over to Sangi.

"Those might be the harpies there. Come with."

"I'm not done eating."

Kurumu stuck her tongue out at Satsuki, getting up on her feet.

"You can carry your lunches with you."

"Confirm those are the girls and I will move after they settle in."

Kurumu sighed as Tora promptly returned her attention upon her meal. Supposing she had nothing better to do, Kurumu wandered over to Uchiyama. The young man was standing several paces down from the mound with his camera leveled upon the girls. Azayaka was the tallest but she was standing in the back next to a sable haired girl with feathered locks and a ponytail that curled at the small of her back. The blond Fugohara stood on this girl's other side.

Three shorter girls were arranged in front. Standing in the center was a charcoal haired girl with her hair shaved short on the right side while long, feathered locks on top swept to the left. She had a nose ring and an emerald stud pierced through the center of her bottom lip. Her ears were ringed with many studs of various colors. She had a smirk on her crimson lips as she regarded Uchiyama's camera.

In front of Azayaka was a brunette with a top knot and two short tails jutting out the side of her head. This rebel had her lips painted black and her eyes were layered in purple and blue tones. She had a silver skull dangling from her left ear while her other was lined with black studs.

The last of these three was an auburn haired girl with short, boyish hair which curled about her ears. While she lacked piercings, her nails were painted green and were spattered with glitter which sparkled in the sunlight. She had a darker complexion than the others with notable splotches of different sizes on her arms and face.

There was one last girl whom was down on her knees in front of the group, constantly making goofy faces at the camera. Her jet black hair was drawn back on both sides of her head in braided tails which ended in sage green bows touching her shoulder blades. The freckled girl kept moving her arms and torso, taking different poses with each snap. Kurumu could hear Uchiyama's chuckling as she neared.

"Pictures to send back home?"

Uchiyama glanced up from his camera as she joined him. He smirked.

"My mother would kill me."

Kurumu grinned at the gathered girls. The girl kneeling in the front had her eyes closed making kissing faces while her arms hugged herself.

"I don't know. They look like good girls to me."

"Would any of you girls want to spend summer break with me?"

"Fuck off!"

Kurumu grinned as the charcoal haired girl and brunette both responded with middle fingers. The auburn haired girl rolled her eyes with a shake of her head while the blond and the goofy one giggled. Only Azayaka seemed restless, finding the lunch carts more interesting.

"Are we done yet?"

Uchiyama smirked at Kurumu.

"Yea, we're done. I'll get the pictures to Nikori tomorrow."

The girls cackled as they separated, the goofy girl on the bottom being the first to accost the tall girl.

"He's going to give it to you tomorrow, Nikori."

"Better wear the right panties."

"I guess she's been working on different techniques."

The two dark haired short girls snickered as they stalked off first.

"Calm down, ladies. You don't want to ruin her chances."

Kurumu assumed the sable haired one had to be the assistant, though she was surprised her remark was not much of an admonishment. Azayaka was blushing fiercely as the harpies started for the lunch cart.

"Fugohara."

The blond frowned at Kurumu but responded to her gestures.

"I was hoping you could sit with the twins."

The blond gestured at the twins whom were sitting with a short girl with glossy black hair.

"They're with Takameru."

Kurumu recalled that was their cousin. She shrugged.

"So get all three of them to sit with your group. Tora and Kiki are going to do your interviews."

"Who?"

Kurumu smiled, supposing first names would not be readily picked up.

"Nazohashi and Honda. You know the girl whom was with me in gym yesterday."

"Oh, that chick? She willing to talk to us?"

"Don't you ever talk to her in gym?"

"Not really. We have different instructors."

"Just go easy on her. It's her first time."

The blond smirked.

"I don't run this group. If Mina wants to fuck her sideways, all I can do is watch."

Uchiyama chuckled, shaking his head as the blond walked off. Kurumu frowned, glancing at him.

"Will they be nice to Kiki?"

"I can't tell you. Ibuki is right though. It's really up to Mina and Yosuru."

"I take it those are the seniors."

He nodded, regarding the screen on his camera. Kurumu smiled, noting that Tora had picked up her meal and was prompting for Kiki to get up. The girl's eyes met hers and Kurumu nodded, gesturing at the group. Figuring that was as much direction required from her, she touched Uchiyama's shoulder.

"So… how did things go with that choir girl?"

"I haven't came up with a convenient excuse to talk to her just yet."

"What about Azayaka?"

"What about her?"

"Seems like she has a thing for you."

He smirked, shaking his head.

"As much a thing as she has for any guy from our village. She's too easy."

Kurumu frowned, glancing back at the girl. The charcoal haired girl was leading the whole group over to third base with Azayaka trailing behind the goofy one with braids. The assistant was bringing up the rear of the group with the auburn haired girl.

"I didn't think she's that much different from Kiki."

"I think Ms. Honda would turn me down if I asked her out. Nikori wouldn't turn anyone down."

Kurumu scowled at him.

"Being shy doesn't mean she's easy."

"She's too tall. At eleven she was as tall as Ms. Honda is now. That meant the only guys that were willing to date her were at least in high school. Heard she even dated some girl's father for a couple weeks."

"Rumors are rumors. It doesn't mean anything."

"I wouldn't put money on her being a virgin."

Kurumu rolled her eyes.

"Don't even start with that crap. If she's too tall for you, fine. It doesn't mean you have to believe she's a whore just because you're short."

Uchiyama snorted out a laugh.

"Last I checked, I'm taller than your boyfriend."

"Yea, well I'm short, so I don't need a tall guy. I don't feel like carrying around a stepping stool to kiss my boyfriend properly."

"From what I gathered you don't kiss him at all."

Kurumu sighed, not wanting to stretch this out into an argument. It was not like she knew enough about Azayaka to defend her. She noticed Fugohara was leading the twins and their cousin over to the group and that Tora and Kiki had already joined them. Kiki was keeping close to Tora.

"I'm not saying you have to like tall girls. A lot of those choir girls are short."

"Yea… and Oso had a decent rack. Nothing compared to yours but good as far as harpies go."

"I only remember she's Ginei's classmate and has white hair."

"You don't ever size other girls up?"

Kurumu smirked at him, suspecting that was another breast remark.

"I sometimes do. I think Ms. Okimune was gorgeous."

Uchiyama paused for a moment, his golden eyes distant.

"Isn't that the blue haired beauty Morioka talked a lot with?"

"Yes."

"A little narcissistic, aren't we?"

Kurumu frowned with a slight shake of her head.

"Sure, she's taller and not as curvy, but her curly hair looked a lot like yours before you butchered it."

Kurumu sighed, absently touching a lock of hair behind her ear.

"That was an accident."

"She also had a nice rack."

Kurumu snorted at his hand gestures.

"If racks are all you care about, you might want to consider dating a gyokuto."

Uchiyama chuckled.

"Every guy considers that. Sadly it's hard to convince them to date other races. They'll hold out for a human if they can't find a male of their kind."

Shaking her head, she gestured at the group of harpies.

"What about the girl in front that was making all the silly faces? She looked like she was fun."

Uchiyama smirked.

"I'm not dating Kotori."

Kurumu paused, recalling that was the girl he had mentioned at the pool party. That felt so long ago.

"What's wrong with Kotori?"

"Kotori is Kouzoku's half-sister. Sure, she's cute and has a decent body, but there's no way she would ever date any of her brother's friends."

Kurumu paused with a frown.

"Uh… who is Kouzoku?"

Uchiyama laughed loudly. Shaking his head, he clapped her on the shoulder.

"Tatakai, from class one. You know, the dummy that shaved himself bald on a dare."

Kurumu smiled, thinking she should know the name but could not match it with a face.

"Well… Fugohara seemed okay."

"Please don't suggest I date any of the others. I swear all of them could pass as boys."

Kurumu giggled, supposing the rest of the girls were fairly thin.

"I wouldn't say that. Fugohara has a figure."

Uchiyama snickered.

"Sure. A man's figure. As for me, I've always preferred short girls with long hair. Tobuyoku was the loveliest Tengu girl I have met on campus. It's a pity she doesn't have tits."

Kurumu forced a smile with a sigh, clutching her notebook to her chest.

"I think I should get started on my interviews before I hear you utter any more demeaning remarks."

Uchiyama chuckled.

"Yea, you do seem to get defensive quickly. I'll see you later."

Kurumu shook her head as she stalked off. She did not think she was being unreasonable. He was openly judging her friends on physical traits. She had a feeling if Suzume had been around to hear that crap, the girl might have broken down the same way Asuka had. She still had no idea how Asuka was doing after being humiliated by Ikazuchi, having not seen her in days.

By this point nearly everyone was eating including Sangi, Kuroishi and that blond guy she forgot to ask Uchiyama about. He was probably one of the film club members, since he seemed to be chatting with Sangi and Oyanagi. In the least he was an upperclassmen that knew them. Maybe a former club member thinking of rejoining. She supposed it hardly mattered.

Satsuki was sitting with the curly, white haired Hidarimeki while chatting with a tall girl with platinum blond hair pulled back in a long ponytail that reached the dirt. A girl with her inky black locks tailored in a pixie cut was sitting with Dakiashi nearby. Not far from them was another tall girl with fawn tresses which were fluffed with frosted white ends touching upon her ample bosom.

Kurumu imagined the last group with the two redheads had to be her seniors. She quickly recognized the girl with the magenta curls from Tashikana's homeroom, concluding her to be Rodan. That meant the other tall girl with the scarlet hair done in a pixie style had to be Michi.

The two girls with them were both black haired. The tallest one was big with short hair, undoubtedly the catcher, Chiba. She was not muscular like Ms. Houkai, nor was she overweight. She was stocky and broad shouldered, but undeniably voluptuous. Kurumu could see this girl dating Ushio, assuming he was not also fixated on short girls with long hair.

Kurumu made a slight wave as she approached the girls whom had taken over the spot where Koike had been eating before. It seemed he was presently talking with Lady Hineri and Kumiko. The younger sister was carefully balancing her tray as she ate from it while standing. She mildly wondered where the other three PSC members had wandered off to.

"I was wondering when you would stop flirting and do our interviews."

Kurumu blushed at the accusation. Pulling her mechanical pencil from the spiral of the notebook, she settled down next to the girl with the long ponytail which was tied with a blue ribbon at her waist.

"Sorry. Uchiyama grew up with those harpies and had a few comments to make."

Rodan grinned, tilting her head. She had canary yellow eyes.

"Hopefully good things."

"Nothing I feel needs to be in the article."

"Oh? That sounds bad."

Kurumu smiled, figuring she would get Uchiyama in trouble if she voiced his opinions.

"I spoke with Fugohara yesterday and she tried to point the two of you out. I know you're Ms. Rodan from Tashikana's class. And you are Ms. Michi."

The scarlet haired girl nodded.

"And I've also been told the tallest girl on the team is Ms. Chiba, which must be her."

"That would be correct. She's Chiba Renga and my suite mate."

Kurumu smiled at the dark haired girl, jotting down Chiba's full name.

"I actually don't have full information on any of you. Coach Hoshineru broke us up before I could get anything substantial. I don't even have first names, homerooms or where any of you are from."

"Cool. I'm Furuiyama Yutaka from class three and hail from Shibata."

"From Ashikantai?"

The girl laughed, shaking her head.

"I'm from the city."

"Do you know a Kiba or Matsudera? They're from the Shibata District."

"My parents decided it would be easier for me to attend the local junior high for humans."

"Excuse me."

Chiba had a surprisingly light voice.

"Uh… I'm from Nagaoka. I've noticed you refer to some towns and cities as districts. I know monsters might call them districts, because they don't live with humans. But if you were talking to a human, they would be confused."

Kurumu stared at Chiba. She glanced at the others.

"If I write Nagaoka district, everyone understands that, right?"

Rodan shrugged.

"I'm from Nenshouchi. I doubt you've heard of that."

"Didn't Inochi play at some party the newspaper club had this weekend?"

Rodan nodded at the Michi's remark.

"That's right. Not that he'd brag about our backwaters town."

Kurumu paused, certain they were talking about the lead guitarist.

"I heard he was from Kaneyama. Doronuma was worried Kaimura would take interest in him."

"Kaimura?"

"A first year girl in the karaoke club from Moegara in the Sekikawa district."

"Uh… that's a town in the Iwafune district. There's no Sekikawa district."

Rodan chuckled at Chiba, shaking her head.

"Semantics aside, you're saying Inochi found a girl from Moegara?"

"It's not semantics. It's how the prefecture is divided up."

Rodan waved her hand dismissively at the big girl.

"Nobody cares. If she says Sekikawa, that's a lot more specific than Iwafune."

"I suppose I could just stick with village names. I know the other village near Sekikawa is Atsuen because a friend of mine has a cousin from there."

"Let's back up to this girl from Moegara. She's a redhead, right?"

"Yes."

"Did they do anything?"

Kurumu laughed, shaking her head.

"I don't believe so. She spent most of her time talking with Murata, their bassist. I know Ginei poked fun at Kaiketsu for not dating some girls from his home town. Where is Kaneyama?"

Rodan smirked.

"Nenshouchi is pretty far off the beaten path. Kaneyama just happens to be the closest human town, which is in the Fukushima prefecture."

"Oh. So you two are out of prefecture."

"Barely. You could say Nenshouchi is about as much out of prefecture as Hateshinai. Aga is only a little farther away than Kaneyama."

Kurumu smiled, recalling Hateshinai was the Tengu village in Tainai that bordered Oguni territory.

"I… still don't have your first name, Ms. Rodan."

"Rodan Irori from class ten. I'm in the business program. I'm a Capricorn, born on Christmas. I'm the team's shortstop while Yutaka is my partner and second base. As you might guess, Sanshiri is my roommate. She's a Libra, born on the third of October and places her imposing figure on first base."

Kurumu scratched out all those notes quickly, glancing up with a smile at Michi.

"Any particular reason why you picked Yokai Academy over a Fukushima school?"

"Ms. Atsumoto is Irori's cousin."

"Sort of. My father graduated with auntie and they are cousins. Because Sanshiri came with me, her cousin, Zoushiki, also decided to attend Yokai."

"Which I feel was a mistake. Kaisai Technical is a better school and even has a better softball team. They usually can win their region."

Rodan snorted at Michi's remark.

"Yea, well, the Tohoku region is weak. You know Kaisai Tech couldn't beat Imoshinai any easier than we could. They get knocked out of nationals in the quarterfinals every year."

"I take it Kaisai Tech is Fukushima's main school?"

"Yea. It's closer to home."

"I have to ask, but why is Kaiketsu here?"

Both girls shrugged.

"Maybe he thinks the grass is greener here?"

Furuiyama giggled.

"Before you wander off topic again, Sanshiri and I are both in the computer program, though since she is in class nine, she has a different elective hour this year."

Kurumu made the quick notes, smiling at the girl.

"Sorry. Do you want me to put your birthday in?"

"Sure. August tenth. Chiba had hers on the sixteenth of June."

"Uh… I'm from class six and I'm also in the business program. My father graduated from Yokai in 83 with Coach Miyazawa. I'm the youngest of three, with a big brother and big sister."

"Her father works for a construction firm in the city."

Kurumu paused as she thought about graduations.

"When did Ms. Atsumoto and your father graduate?"

"87."

Kurumu nodded, wondering if this meant these people would know her mother. Actually, there probably were many students with parents whom might know her mother.

"Ms. Kurono?"

"Sorry. Spaced out again."

Furuiyama giggled.

"Well you need to stop doing that. The film club has already left."

Kurumu looked up, realizing this was true. The lunch carts were gone and so was Koike and Kumiko. Lady Hineri was talking with Coach Kanatoko and her assistant. It looked like Tora and Kiki were letting girls go upon completing their interviews. The twins and their cousin were gone as well as Kotori.

"It hasn't been that long, right?"

"I think most are leaving with their lunches in hand."

Kurumu sighed in relief as Furuiyama gestured at the fawn haired girl.

"Hey, Setsuna. Has she done you yet?"

"No. She just started with Inka right now."

Hidarimeki, Dakiashi and the blond were all missing. Satsuki only had the dark haired girl at the moment.

"Come, stay with us. We don't need fifth period."

The girl had a familiar, toothy grin. She came over and sat down beside Furuiyama, whom promptly held her hands out to present their new arrival.

"This is Hajimari Setsuna. She's in my homeroom."

Kurumu smiled, recalling the girl's name.

"Yes. You're the girl dating the older Borohata."

Furuiyama laughed as Hajimari flinched.

"I'm supposed to ask your permission to put that in the paper."

"Um… are you putting in Tabi's thing with Irouji?"

"They both gave their permission for me to do so. A lot of the baseball players were open to the idea."

Hajimari grinned.

"I don't mind if you put that in your paper."

"We throw her out in centerfield because she's pretty fast and can cover a lot of ground. She's the baby of our team. Late February, right?"

"The twenty third."

Kurumu smiled as she filled in a new section for Hajimari.

"I remember you're from the Tsunan District."

"There's not-"

"Please, Renga. No more."

Furuiyama giggled at Chiba's dismay.

"If it makes her feel better, I'll just write the name of their community."

Hajimari shrugged with a toothy grin.

"Only about half of us actually live in Aserutani. Some families don't feel safe being all concentrated in one place like that, even with the barriers that protect the village and junior high from discovery."

"Any reason why you picked Yokai Academy over Mimori High?"

Hajimari smirked at her.

"I wouldn't be having sex if I was still living with my parents."

Rodan and Furuiyama giggled while Chiba looked away with discomfort. Michi rolled her eyes.

"I'm curious but what happened with you and Dakiashi living together?"

Hajimari shrugged as Furuiyama gestured at Chiba.

"We swapped with them. Setsuna started dating Kenage over winter break."

"Yea, but we weren't that far into things until spring break. We kind of fucked a lot that week before school started back up."

Kurumu smirked, aware how frequently she had sex with Tsukune that first week..

"Yea… when you start it is kind of hard to stop."

"I know, right? And he has a roommate and I had a roommate."

Furuiyama giggled, shaking her head.

"As if that stopped you. You kept having me stay over with Tabi."

"Well… what else could I do?"

"Show some restraint."

Rodan chuckled at Michi's remark.

"At least they slowed things down a bit."

"Shouldn't have started to begin with. You knew his uncle wasn't going to be there over the break. What else were the two of you going to do?"

"Come on, Sanshiri. We're not doing this again."

Michi glanced at Furuiyama.

"And then she pressures Tabi into doing it."

"Tabi has been dating Irouji since last summer break."

"I don't mind living with Yutaka. Yea… I was upset they tricked me at first, but it's okay."

Michi glanced away.

"I'm going to attend Tokyo University for Computer Science. I have no idea what the rest of these idiots are going to do. Probably pop out babies before they graduate."

Rodan huffed, crossing her arms about her chest.

"Oh? I distinctly recall you having a girlfriend."

Michi gestured at Kurumu.

"I have no problems if you report my relationship with Kuki. She's a sweet girl and we've discussed her coming with me after graduation."

"You want her to drop out?"

"Yes."

Rodan paused, perplexed as her friend continued.

"I've seen her test scores. It's pointless forcing her to do things she can't. I can take care of her."

Furuiyama smirked.

"You know, Kenage has better grades than you. I'm sure he could take care of Setsuna."

"Irrelevant. He has no aspirations for college."

Rodan frowned.

"He's on the business path like I am. There's no point going to college unless you want to work for a human company."

"That's stagnant thinking. You're all foolish coming to a school for human coexistence and going right back to the shadows."

"Well… the internet is kind of taking off. I figure getting a technical degree at Niigata University will be good enough and then figure a way to work remotely from home."

"This coming from a girl that flunked two of her midterms."

Furuiyama waved a hand dismissively.

"Eh, I'm always like that. I'll do better on the term exam."

Kurumu forced a smile, jotting down these things.

"What about you, Ms. Chiba?"

"Oh, I don't know. Graduating would be good enough for now."

Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head.

"And you, Ms. Hajimari?"

"I'm fine with being a wife. I'm not ashamed of that."

Kurumu smiled, wondering if Dakiashi had answered similarly. She glanced over her shoulder, noting Satsuki and the other girl were gone. She caught sight of Satsuki handing off her notebook to Tora. Kiki was nervously speaking with the gruff Fugohara while Azayaka politely waited for her turn. Tora still had the same three harpies from before.

"I'm sorry this is taking so long. I didn't pick up your elective."

Hajimari smiled.

"I have the health class."

"Do you guys have any goals as a team this year?"

Rodan exchanged glances with Furuiyama and Michi. She shrugged.

"Really hard to say. We only won three games last year, but Sanshiri and Renga were the only two playing as starters. The rest of the team were seniors."

"And not very good ones."

"It's not like you were any better."

Furuiyama stuck her tongue out at Michi.

"Well… I heard you beat Joukuu."

"They are bad this year."

"It's not like they were good the year before."

"They weren't even the main school for Nagano our first year."

Kurumu frowned at the banter between the redheads.

"The flagship school changed?"

"It happens to Nagano a lot. Joukuu High and Shirosei Academy are about the same size. I don't quite know what they do to determine who gets to play the other schools, but Coach says it's changed three times since she's ran the program."

Kurumu smiled, tapping her pencil against the notebook.

"I honestly don't know much about the other schools. I know Imoshinai is a big school out of Nagoya and that Shimote is another big school near Mount Fuji."

"Those are the important ones to beat if you want to go to nationals."

"That's what I keep hearing. I don't even know the other teams. I know I've heard Nakamune, Katame, and probably others, but it doesn't sound like they are as important."

"Nakamune tends to have a solid team. That's southern Gifu kind of between Imoshinai and Shirosei."

"They have bad years like we do. I heard the year before I started, Nakamune lost a game to Ishou."

"Are they a bad team?"

"Ishou Academy is a small school on Noto Island in Ishikawa. It's smaller than Hisoshi High."

Hajimari nodded, gesturing at her.

"Yea, and that other school you mentioned, Katame Institute, is about the same size as Ishou. That's the school in Toyama up by a lake in the mountains. I have a cousin that lives there."

"Sekisei High is the school for Fukui, though I have no idea where it is."

The other girls shrugged at Rodan's remark. Kurumu smiled at the shared indifference, wondering if she could ask Kana for more details about it.

"Well, as you can guess, those were our three wins last year. Not much to brag about, since it's not unusual to see less than a dozen girls on the field when we play them."

Kurumu nodded as she thought about the school names. She frowned, realizing she could not count both Nagano schools, which meant she only had seven of the eight remaining prefectures.

"There should be one more, right?"

Hajimari laughed.

"We didn't mention the school we are playing next."

"True. They're also a small school, but can be tough some years."

"Toutoi Technical. We host them next week."

Kurumu smiled, thankful Michi had provided the name.

"Where are they from?"

"Yamanashi Prefecture."

"Isn't that Kofu?"

"I think a lot of their students go to Shimote since it's close."

"Well… where is this school?"

"It's by a lake up in the mountains."

Kurumu chuckled at the generic location. Shaking her head, she wondered if she could ask Kana about that one too. She had not thought to ask where Saedi went to school, only recalling the girl mentioning her graduation from two years ago and her plans to attend university.

"How are you ladies doing?"

Kurumu glanced up, favoring the coach an apologetic smile.

"Sorry. I'm sort of doing everyone at the same time."

The coach sighed, glancing back at the small group about Tora. The auburn haired girl and Fugohara were both gone, Kiki seeming more relaxed with her interview of Azayaka.

"I'm curious but when did Ms. Kurohane start as your assistant?"

The coach smiled, gesturing at the woman whom was keeping Lady Hineri company.

"Emi graduated in 93 and started working for me right away. She loves this game."

Michi huffed, shaking her head.

"She can actually pitch unlike half the girls we get from Okayama."

"Ms. Kagami has earned her spot. She pitched well against Joukuu."

Michi nodded at the coach, glancing aside.

"Ms. Kurohane goes back to her home every break and helps train junior high girls for our team. Merodi is our best pitcher, but she's a second year."

Sensing some tension, Kurumu smiled and gestured at Tora whom was talking with the girl with the top knot and the side tails.

"Which one is Kagami?"

"Your friend is talking with Ms. Ueniki right now. Ms. Kagami is the other girl."

Kurumu frowned.

"Is she related to a first year in class four? She's also in my home ec class."

"Not that I'm aware of."

Kurumu supposed it could be coincidence that the girl had the same surname. She tapped her notebook.

"Who's your third basemen?"

"That would be Ms. Tochimaru."

"She's a second year with long blond hair. She was talking with your friend."

Kurumu smiled at Hajimari, quickly connecting the girl. She was aware Dakiashi and Hidarimeki were the other two outfielders, so she had the entire starting roster.

"Coach Kanatoko. I understand Nagano has changed their flagship several times during your tenure."

"What sort of article are you writing?"

"Well, I do try to include some facts about the coaches. Like I know that Coach Kibashiro was hired on in 99 with Ms. Uchikawa and Coach Kotsubo. I picked up that Coach Miyazawa was hired in 89."

"Did he tell you why?"

Kurumu paused, put off by the sharpness of the inquiry.

"No."

The coach smiled softly, relaxing her shoulders.

"Monster schools didn't have athletics until 81. We had gym teachers, but it wasn't about sports. It was more like combat and survival. Not what anyone would expect of a human gym course."

Coach Kanatoko grinned.

"Fairy Tale decided we had to be more restrained in our violent behaviors and encouraged the institution of an athletics program. Yokai Academy refused to participate at first, but adopted the gym standards, which troubled the old timers. The gym teachers I had in 82 were all new hires."

"You graduated in 82?"

"85. I was fortunate to have all three of my years in the new gym program. School deaths took a huge drop because of it, which was exactly what Fairy Tale wanted."

"I thought Fairy Tale was all about survival of the fittest."

"Numbers matter. Just look at the humans. Hardly fit or strong but we would lose a war with them."

Kurumu knew that was the case. Simply piecing the small bits of information together, she realized the coach could not have started working here till about the same time as Miyazawa.

"Did something happen in 89?"

The woman nodded.

"The reason Yokai Academy allowed Mimori High be the flagship for those first eight years was because of eligibility requirements. The rules for whom could participate in competitive sports were too strict. Only purebloods were allowed."

Hajimari chuckled.

"It's hard to believe Mimori High was a flagship school."

"Mimori High is not the same school these days. Back then, most of the families that lived there had to send their kids to Yokai or Hisoshi. Mimori was an elite school ran by the kitsune which only allowed about a dozen breeds of monsters to attend. I know Ms. Michi could go to it, but you would have had to come to Yokai, Ms. Hajimari."

"You shitting me?"

"Same goes for Ms. Chiba and Ms. Furuiyama. The biggest reason why Yokai finally decided to take on the role of the flagship school was because Fairy Tale loosened the restrictions to include more common breeds like kappa and tengu. There were also a lot of parents upset that the Headmaster refused to give their pureblood boys sports. Mr. Miyazawa's parents were among the disgruntled."

"Coach Miyazawa was an alumni?"

"He graduated in 83. His parents had thought Yokai Academy would naturally assume the flagship role since it is the biggest school of the prefecture. They didn't want to transfer him to Mimori High, since it was a tiny school, half the size it is today."

Hajimari laughed.

"That would be tiny."

"Yes, it was."

She sighed.

"And it was a big deal for some staff when the Headmaster made the decision in 89. Two of the gym teachers he had hired in 82 resigned immediately and so did a history and science teacher. We needed to have someone for the six major sports at the time: volleyball, basketball, softball, baseball, soccer and track. The two gym teachers whom stayed took over the soccer and track programs. The other four programs are still being ran by the coaches that kicked them off."

Kurumu knew she should not be too surprised that this had become another racial matter.

"I'm a little curious whom was hired for the history and science positions."

"That would be Ms. Yoshino and Ms. Rin. They both happen to be Mimori alumni."

Kurumu snorted at first. Then she frowned. Though she had never explicitly been told Ms. Rin's true form, the conversation with the gyokuto girls in home economics over the weeks had led her to believe the woman was their kind.

"Isn't Ms. Rin… uh… she wouldn't have met the pureblood standards, right?"

The coach smiled.

"I'm sure you have noticed the kitsune make up their own rules at times. Ms. Hoshineru and Mr. Enkan are both Yokai alumni. Mr. Enkan graduated with me while Ms. Hoshineru graduated a year before us. We are all purebloods by the old standards, which was still a requirement for coaches back then."

Kurumu sighed, shaking her head.

"Do they still have racial restrictions on the sports?"

"They've relaxed the standards every couple years, but I'm sure you can guess that monstrels have never been allowed. The only sports they can get involved in are unsanctioned clubs like rugby and wrestling."

"Um… coach? I doubt she can put that stuff in her article."

The woman huffed at Furuiyama's protest.

"Why not? They can't expel her more."

"Yea, but I still have a lot of things to ask. I should get back to stuff like hobbies and favorite songs."

"Did you know Ms. Kurohane was not actually on my team?"

Kurumu frowned at the coach.

"One of my best players, but I couldn't have her on the roster because harpies weren't allowed to participate until a couple years after she graduated. The moment she heard the news, she started going home to find me girls that had any inkling of talent."

Rodan chuckled.

"And many that don't."

"Still a shame what happened to Mr. Miyazawa. I know he didn't want to have a Kurohane on his bench, but everything would have worked out better if he had sucked it up like I did."

Kurumu frowned, peering up at the coach. The woman smiled softly.

"Old pains, Ms. Kurono. You best hurry. We can't be out here forever."

Kurumu chuckled, supposing that was true.

"So… this is where we start throwing in whatever else you want people to know. Any suggestions?"

"I know I'm curious how far Michi has gone with Kuki. You must be at third base by now."

"Third base?"

"Do not explain that, Ms. Hajimari. Keep it clean girls or I will have you running laps."

---

Kurumu turned off the stove burner, satisfied that enough of the liquid had simmered away. She fetched up a black ceramic bowl and ladled a steaming serving of nikujaga into it. When the bowl felt too hot, she set it aside to grab the next one. She filled up six bowls with plenty left in the pot for seconds.

She glanced over her shoulder, noting the girls were playing old maid on the black table Moka had pulled out from beneath the couch. Moka had not bothered to get dressed for the day, wearing that white tank top with the large pink heart in the center and its matching pink pants which were dotted with white hearts of various sizes. Kana was seated beside her, having slipped into a faded blue tee and a gray knit pant. Both girls had their backs to the couch, Moka kneeling while the blond was cross-legged.

Tora had also dressed down to sleep wear, eager to shed her PSC attire. The sphinx had on a spaghetti string tank top which had a lush green hue. A matching pair of cotton shorts fit snugly against her curvy rump, lacking any lines to suggest Tora had on anything beneath. They were not quite the same as boyshort panties, since the hem about Tora's thighs were loose like a normal pair of shorts. The sphinx had let her braids out, giving her raven locks a crimped, wavy appearance as they hung past her tanned shoulders. She sat on her right thigh, her knees bent and legs resting off to her left side.

Kiki and Kokoa were both still dressed in their school blouses. Kokoa was around the table corner on Moka's left side, kneeling with rigid posture as she regarded her cards. Kiki was kneeling on the other side of the table, holding her cards low in her lap. Despite coming from a leisure club that played mostly card games, Kiki was terrible at it.

Not much else had happened during the day. They were learning about how to make okonomiyaki in home economics and had been tasked to make a shopping list for Ms. Hitori before the end of class. Asuka had been back to her usual self, dismissing the encounter with Ikazuchi as rotten luck. It certainly was not her fault the poor boy lacked manners. She spent most of her time asking about the things Hinoko was adding to their shopping cart. It took them a while to figure out that the silly shojo was listing off brand names of rum, vodka and other alcoholic beverages.

Coach Hoshineru had forced Mizore to assist her today. It was mildly amusing to watch Mizore power her way through the gym hour, flush and dripping sweat. Heavens forbid the coach actually ask the girl to do anything resembling physical exertion. The snow girl had checked in with the school nurse instead of bothering with eighth period. Tsukune had left shortly after giving Kurumu a squeeze to check on her.

It had been Kurumu's hope that they could write her article tonight, but Mr. Karatsuki had reserved the computer lab for his club for the evening. She had waited around with Tora for Kana, but Kana had let the manga club borrow her laptop and did not expect getting it back until Friday. The manga club was working on a digital comic and wanted to use their publishing software. The three of them were about to head over to the infirmary when Kokoa had arrived with Kiki, demanding her dinner to be prepared. It was unclear what exactly had happened, but Kokoa had caused trouble fourth period and had been forced to sit in detention her entire lunch hour.

Before leaving school, Tora had headed up to the student council room to hand off her thumb drive which had her article. She had forgotten to do that yesterday after Tsukune's dramatic entrance. With that handled, they had left school chatting about random things. Kana was fairly clueless about Toutoi Tech since Saedi had attended a human high school. As for her knowledge about Sekisei, she knew it was south of Ono in the monster town Tatekanai which also was home to her junior high. Her family lived in the outskirts of Ikeda which made it convenient for her to make the daily hour long commute to school.

Kokoa's remarks about her DVD collection resulted in Kana requesting to spend the night to watch some movies. Thinking it would be nice to hang out with Moka, the other two had joined in, Tora mildly interested in seeing Kurumu's maid uniform.

Kurumu sighed, placing a pair of black chopsticks in each bowl before carrying the first over to the table. She knelt down, placing it in front of Kokoa. The vampire had her arms crossed about her chest with no cards in hand. The rest of the game was being played out between Kana, Tora and Kiki.

"You look so mature in that."

Kurumu smirked at Tora.

"Like something you've seen in one of your maid cafés?"

Kokoa huffed.

"My servant needs to attend to her task."

Kurumu smiled, getting back up to retrieve the next bowl.

"I'm curious, but why does Moka have a different last name than you."

"It's an alias. Mother said it would cause less trouble in the human world."

Kurumu set the second bowl down beside Tora. She quickly withdrew to fetch the next meal.

"Our family has enemies. Human schools are not very secure. Mother feared my sister in her weakened state would either be kidnapped or killed."

Kana cocked her head.

"Then why not enroll her in a monster school?"

Kokoa snorted as Kurumu set down the third bowl for Kiki. The girl favored her a smile while holding three cards. She seemed content to stay out of the conversation.

"I hardly consider my sister's time at Yokai uneventful. Even with the alias she has been attacked multiple times. It's because this front of hers invites trouble."

"That's not fair, Kokoa."

"The only reason she is here is because Mother was promised a way to break this troublesome seal."

Kurumu walked to the corner of the table with another bowl in hand. She knelt down in the space between Kiki and Kana, placing the bowl in front of the blond. She shook her head as she withdrew.

"The other Moka wants to protect this troublesome seal."

"That's irrelevant. Mother wants the seal gone and that is what shall be done."

Kurumu scowled as she retrieved the bowl for Moka. She walked around the vampire, knowing it would do no good to argue with Kokoa. She knelt down to place the bowl in front of Moka.

"Why can't you be happy with this Moka?"

"I would prefer to see my real sister."

Kurumu glanced at Moka, placing her hands on her apron.

"Does she want to speak with her sister?"

Moka sighed, glancing away.

"She would prefer not to."

Kokoa poked at her potatoes, regarded Moka with disappointment.

"You understand that you are a threat to her."

"Kokoa. I can't-"

"You'll get her killed. You know this. If she was not trapped inside of you, she would have avoided every situation you have encountered. It's because you're weak and gorgeous. The perfect victim for any male with repressed desires."

Kurumu sighed, getting up to fetch the last bowl. She was annoyed with Kokoa but the vampire was correct. Half of their situations had been solved by removing the seal. Returning to the table with her bowl, Kurumu knelt down at the corner between Kokoa and Tora.

"You know there is the matter of the monster that killed Akasha."

Kokoa seized the first chunk of potato, stuffing it in her mouth.

"That's true, Ms. Shuzen. Your sister is convinced that being sealed is what keeps the beast asleep."

"I know I might be a little behind on things, but if this seal is broken, does that mean this Moka dies?"

Kokoa swallowed down her food, shaking her head.

"This Moka was never alive to begin with. It's like a fake personality designed to protect the wearer. She's nice and well suited for family but at thirteen she was sexier than most human girls. Mother was starting to worry she might not even be safe with humans."

Kurumu smirked.

"I assure you, Moka is strong enough to fend off a human."

"That's not the issue. Mother was worried she would kill one."

"Don't be ridiculous. Moka couldn't kill anyone."

"Yea. You would think that. Right."

Kurumu paused, glancing at Tora. The sphinx forced a smile as she fetched a chunk of potato. Kurumu nodded, supposing there were some situations that could not be predicted and even a timid Moka might do something regrettable in her panic.

There was a pause as everyone took the time to empty the contents of their bowls. Kana was easily the first, hopping to her feet to fetch another serving before Kokoa to manage a full protest over how that was Kurumu's role. The vampire sighed, shaking her head as Kana returned to her spot.

"I trust the food is good?"

The girls all murmured reassurances.

"I know I've had better, but she is young and has not been properly trained."

Kurumu snorted, shaking her head as she chewed her food.

"In table manners or in cooking."

Kurumu glanced at Kokoa whom was daintily procuring her potato chunks from the bowl and stowing them away in her mouth. She chewed with her hand slightly covering her mouth as she kept her eyes focused on the bowl.

"Yes, Milady."

Kiki smiled, poking at her food. She had only taken two bites without any visible interest to continue.

"Ms. Akashiya. I don't really understand all this talk of seals and another Moka but I am curious if you agree with your sister that you won't end up expelled. I really don't want everyone to leave."

"I have no idea what to expect."

"You can expect transferring to another homeroom."

Moka sighed as Kana perked up.

"There's plans to change Moka's homeroom?"

"Ms. Shuzen mentioned it last night to us. Has the Headmaster give any indication which class?"

"I had no reason to see him today. I was busy."

Kurumu snorted, shaking her head.

"Busy getting in trouble. What did you do to miss lunch?"

Kokoa scowled, gesturing at her empty bowl.

"You should get me another serving."

Kurumu huffed, setting her chopsticks aside. She grabbed up the bowl before getting up.

"Why are you changing homerooms?"

"Kokoa wants to have me in her gym class."

"We need to show these commoners what real physical activity looks like."

"I don't think they need to see that."

"So… which homeroom is she transferring to?"

Kurumu smirked as she filled the bowl to the brim, hearing Tora sigh at Kana's inquiry.

"We don't know. She's going to end up in one of the classes that have sixth period gym. My guess is the Headmaster is waiting to see if we do get out of this mess before making the switch."

Kurumu returned to the table, kneeling down to set the bowl in front of Kokoa.

"Ms. Shuzen said something about having to move someone from the art class over. I assume she'll go to Moka's current homeroom."

Kana perked up at Kiki's remark.

"She?"

"Well… we think it makes sense that it would be a girl switched around. For gym reasons."

Kana nodded as she prodded at her bowl thoughtfully.

"Hmm. I have the seventh period art class so it would be cool to have Moka with me. Both Ms. Uchikawa and Riku are in my gym class, so that rules them out. Iko from the manga club is from class twelve."

"Iko?"

"Uboku Iko. She's quiet and very talented. I hear she's real smart."

Kurumu grinned as she picked out one of the last chunks in her bowl.

"What about other first years? Surely she can't be the only one."

"Well… you all know Ms. Goto, right?"

Kurumu smiled, surprised she had forgotten that.

"That's right. She took art with the hope of having a class with her friend, Kakeru."

"Ms. Goto is in my class."

"That wouldn't be a bad switch for Moka or Goto. Class eleven and class nine share gym instructors, so that would put her in Kokoa's group. She'd also have Dangai and Kiki in her homeroom. And Goto would get to be in art and gym with Kakeru."

Kiki and Tora nodded at Kurumu's assessment. Kokoa favored a nervous Moka with a smug grin as Kana chuckled while stuffing down another chunk of potato. The blond started talking around her mouthful.

"The only other girl whom I think is a first year is Ms. Kitamura. She's this tiny girl about the size of Kurumu with stupid long black hair. She's not in my gym class and she doesn't talk to anybody. She's often paired off with Iko, so I assume she has to be a first year."

Kurumu nodded, wondering if that was the girl she had seen on the tennis courts the other day. There could not be that many tiny girls with stupid long black hair.

"I'm a little disappointed. I hoped there would be someone from my class for Moka to switch with."

Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head.

"I knew that wasn't going to happen yesterday. Doronuma is in choir. Taniguchi and her friends were in your computer class. The two gyokuto girls said that other girl was in their home ec class. And Yamane is in the business program."

Kokoa pouted.

"But that still leaves Ms. Sawaguchi."

"I have a feeling that mermaid took home economics with hopes she would be with her friends."

There was a short pause as Kokoa and Kana finished up with their seconds. Nobody else gave any indication of wanting more. After another minute passed, Tora sighed, picking up her bowl and getting up. She stalked over to the sink, flipping on the faucet.

"Let her do the dishes."

"I'm going to rinse it out."

Kokoa nodded at Kurumu. Sighing, Kurumu picked up her emptied bowl and reached over for Moka's. Forcing a smile, Kurumu stood up and joined Tora at the sink.

"You know Ms. Sangi is planning to throw us a party Thursday night."

"Kamitsuku mentioned something along those lines."

"She left the details with me, saying we should bring our whole club."

Kurumu frowned as she set the bowls in the sink. She glanced over at Kiki and Kana.

"Can we bring Nerume? I'm sure we can get her out of the hospital for a party."

Tora nodded, turning to lean her back against the counter space between the sink and the stove.

"I'm sure you would want to invite Ms. Unari, so she can help you with that endeavor."

"Stop your gossip and fetch the rest of the dishes, Ms. Kurono. Clearly our guests are finished."

Kurumu sighed, walking back over to the table. The girls spared her the trouble by both handing up their bowls with almost a full helping still in Kiki's.

"Are you sure you're not hungry?"

"I'm fine."

Kurumu shrugged, walking off with the two bowls. She set them in the sink, turning back on the faucet to fill both up with water.

"I'm curious, Ms. Shuzen, but are you planning to keep Kurumu in your service?"

"I see no reason why I shouldn't."

Tora frowned.

"I hope you would let her return to her mother if she is expelled."

"Nobody will be expelled."

"Yes, well, for summer break then."

Kokoa set her chopsticks aside, gesturing for Kurumu to retrieve her bowl.

"I confess I don't know what Mother's plans are for the summer. If she says Ms. Kurono may go home with her mother, than I shall let her."

Kurumu shook her head, amused. She knelt down to pick up the bowl.

"You're so kind."

"She's being honest, Kurumu. I understand Mother wants me at the Shuzen Estate this summer. I didn't get to go last year, so it will be nice to see Kahlua again."

Kana smiled as Kurumu retreated to the sink.

"So how does Mr. Aono fit in all of this?"

"That's also up to Mother."

"Seriously? Doesn't he have a say in where he goes for summer break?"

"Mr. Aono is a high security risk to Fairy Tale right now. He may have passed Mother's test, but I can't say if that will be good enough to let him return to his family."

"Has anyone told him about this?"

Kurumu sighed as she pulled a rag out of the drawer beside the sink. She squirted some dish soap on the rag and lifted the sink handle enough to cause only a slight trickle. Wetting the rag to cause a lather, she wiped down the first of the bowls full of murky water.

"We don't know anything right now. We still might be expelled before the end of the week, so I didn't see a point worrying over what might happen summer break."

"I agree with Kurumu that worrying over summer break plans is pointless."

"It's pointless because Mother will decide for us. I plan to enjoy my four weeks here. As long as you guys don't somehow screw things up, I might become strong enough for Kahlua to respect me."

Kurumu glanced over her shoulder as she squirted more dish soap to work on the second bowl.

"What are you talking about?"

"You're not thinking to challenge her again?"

"Mother said if I meet the right girls and made them mine, then I would be stronger."

"Made them yours?"

"Speaking of which, did you learn anything about Ms. Akegawa for me?"

"I… she's only with me in that class. You know Mr. Karatsuki kept us busy the whole hour."

Kurumu chuckled, finishing up with the second bowl.

"You know… talking with the softball seniors reminded me that Akegawa is from Tochimoeru in Sanjo."

"Yes, I'm aware that Ms. Akegawa is a salamander."

"A salamander?"

"Yes. Her scent was quite distinct and strong."

"But she's so small. I didn't think there were salamanders that tiny. I thought the girls would at least be as tall as Michiko."

"I assure you her spirit is pure. I would be indebted to you if you could somehow convince her to join my lab station or maybe switch places with me."

Kiki shook her head immediately, waving her hand.

"No thanks. That Umizake guy does not make me feel comfortable at all."

"Sister. What are you wanting from this girl?"

"Her strength. She's a pure fire spirit. The strongest one I have seen."

Kurumu chuckled as she worked her rag about the third bowl.

"You've only been in school two days and are limited mostly to class nine. I'm sure there are stronger fire spirits in this school."

Kurumu smirked as she thought about Kuyo, aware that the kitsune were also noble fire spirits.

"In fact, there's a small kitsune girl in class three by the name Hiboshi Netsuki. She's in tennis."

"Mother said I would meet all of my girls except my sylph in my normal classes. My encounter with her was not clear enough for Mother to predict."

Kurumu paused before starting on the fourth bowl.

"Taniguchi is your undine. A pure water spirit."

"Yes. And Ishiko is my gnome."

"You mean Ms. Fukai from my class? What do you mean by her being your gnome?"

Moka sighed.

"Are you… necking with these girls?"

"Of course I am."

Kana giggled as Kiki blushed, looking away. Kurumu lost hold of her fourth bowl, it clattering to remind her of her task. Shaking her head, she diligently scrubbed the bowl.

"Shouldn't you be more selective of your partners?"

"Mother told me I would know these girls when I saw them. I have her blessing."

"This is great stuff. I should write it down for my next comic."

Tora sighed at Kana's amusement.

"I'm sure necking means Ms. Shuzen is sucking blood from these girls."

"Of course it means that. What else would necking me?"

Kiki fidgeted with her hands in her lap.

"It could mean kissing on the neck."

"You can make it feel much better than kissing."

Kana was giggling, hiding her face in her hands. Kurumu shook her head, not wanting to make a comment about Taniguchi wetting herself as she started on the fifth bowl.

"And you've done this with a lot of people?"

Kokoa frowned at Kiki's nervous inquiry. She shook her head.

"I've been tutored all my life with minimal contact with others our age. Mother would kill me if I sunk my teeth into any of those old codgers."

"What do you mean about making it feel better than kissing?"

Kokoa grinned at her sister. She loosened her collar, touching the base of her neck.

"It's all about where you bite. If you want to keep going back to someone, you need to make it feel good. Mother says blood given is much more powerful than blood taken. So if you can make your prey into willing partners, the strength you draw from them is greater."

Kana snickered, shaking her head.

"And you're planning to make out with four girls at the same time?"

Kokoa frowned as every other girl blushed.

"Make out? It's not like I need them all at once. It's better if you stagger them out to give your body time to recover. Maybe only have a quick nip like once a week from each of them."

Kurumu shook her head as she started on the last of the bowls. She wondered if she should pour the leftovers into a container and put it in the fridge. There was easily two more full bowls worth in the pot.

"I'm hesitant to ask, but did you neck with Fukai today?"

"I did."

Moka sighed at Kokoa's nonchalant response.

"Kokoa. You barely know these girls."

"But they belong to me. Mother said so."

"You can't just immediately start necking with someone."

Kurumu snorted.

"Did I hear that correctly? I recall things with Tsukune being different."

Moka blushed as Kurumu set the last bowl aside, cutting the faucet off for now.

"Well… it's still not right."

"Uh huh."

"You were all over him too!"

"I feel the conversation has shifted."

Kurumu chuckled at Tora's remark.

"Okay. We all acted a bit hasty. As for Kokoa, her interests in Taniguchi are purely… selfish."

"Hey!"

"Should I tell the others what happened to poor Taniguchi?"

Kokoa frowned.

"She clearly enjoyed it."

Kurumu sighed, shaking her head. She doubted any girl would ever appreciate involuntary loss of bladder control in public.

"I trust poor Fukai didn't have an accident."

Kokoa glanced aside.

"Not quite the same reaction."

Kurumu immediately turned to Kiki.

"Did something happen to Fukai?"

Kiki had a clueless look as Kokoa waved her hand dismissively.

"I had to leave her in the infirmary. It's conveniently close to the computer lab."

"What did you do?"

Kokoa reflexively held her hands up in defense.

"I gave her a demonstration. She's dedicated to science and willing to experiment."

Kana snickered about experimenting, causing Kurumu to smirk.

"Why did she end up in the infirmary?"

"I'm uncertain. I showed her before changing out of our gym clothes, figuring those were safer to soil if she had a similar response as Nagisa. She seemed fine and we were talking as we got dressed. I thought nothing was wrong but she suddenly fainted."

Kurumu frowned at Kokoa.

"If she was in the infirmary, you should have let us go there to check on our friends."

"Fukai was present in eighth period. Kokoa was speaking with her before we came over to class three."

Moka smiled at Kiki, shaking her head as she regarded her sister.

"You took too much, Kokoa."

"She seems willing to let me experiment with her again. I had to discourage her since I don't know how much is safe to take from her in a week."

Kurumu sighed, supposing that strange girl would be like that.

"Have you apologized to Taniguchi for yesterday?"

"What for?"

"You should if you plan on ever getting that girl to let you do that with her again."

Kokoa cocked her head.

"I'm sitting by her in class."

The remark caught Kurumu off guard.

"How?"

"I convinced that Numasaki boy to give up his seat. He was quite willing to sit behind his cousin."

"Is Taniguchi still being friendly with you?"

"Of course she is. Why would she not be?"

Kurumu sighed, supposing she did not want to explain why a girl might avoid her after such an accident.

"I don't know if Kiki should help you get to know Ms. Akegawa. You seem to only want her for her body."

This caused Kana to break out in a fit of giggles. For the first time, Kokoa blushed as dark as her locks.

"No, it's not like that. These girls will be close friends of mine. I know it."

Moka smiled softly, placing a hand on Kokoa's shoulder.

"You should slow things down. Focus on getting to know the two you have."

"But I only have four weeks."

Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head.

"I swear the next time I hear you're in the detention room I'm going to immediately think you molested one of these girls."

Kokoa pouted.

"I just want to be stronger. That's why Moka drinks your blood."

Kurumu snorted, shaking her head as the other girls exchanged looks.

"Both times I've seen it done was to calm her fever."

Kana nodded in agreement with Tora as Kiki blushed. All of them had seen it at least once.

"Kurumu has offered her blood to me. You know what Mother says about offered blood."

Kurumu smiled, supposing she had back when she thought Moka needed blood.

"Yea, well… your bite hurts."

Moka bit her lower lip, peering apologetically up at her.

"Well… Mother never showed me how to make it feel good."

Kokoa smiled, turning her gaze on her sister.

"You know… I could show you how to make it feel good."

Kurumu shook her head as Kana giggled and Kiki blushed.