"So how have you been, Ms. Akashiya?"
Moka smiled at Tokori as Kokoa locked up their suite.
"Bored. I'm a little nervous going back to school."
Kurumu grinned, taking Moka by the hand and starting off.
"Don't worry. You'll be spending the day in the lounge with the teachers."
With this being the day of their farewell party, Kokoa had agreed to allow Moka on campus. While she steadfastly believed that they would not be expelled, she had also been told Moka should go to school at the right moment. The other three girls cooped up in the suite, whom had spent the whole day studying and watching DVDs, believed Moka's presence at school might encourage Fusamina to surface.
Tokori sighed as the girl fell in step with their group. She was wearing the PSC jacket with black slacks and shiny black loafers. It was the most formal pants she owned so she made certain to wear them on the days the PSC held their weekly meeting. Other days she threw on whatever black bottoms she owned, be them leggings or jeans.
"I don't suppose Ms. Shuzen would know if Yoshii was working for any of her family's enemies."
Kokoa shrugged, adjusting the school strap nestled between her padded bosom.
"Mother does not share many names with me. I don't even know whom Kahlua will marry this summer."
"When is that?"
"August twelfth. If you are allowed to go home for summer break, I would still require your attendance for this important event."
"Why do you need me there?"
Kokoa huffed.
"My sister being married is not something a servant should brush off."
"I suppose my mother can spare me for a weekend."
Moka squeezed Kurumu's hand.
"I would like it if you were there."
"I don't know what I'm going to tell Mikomi."
Tokori shook her head as they steadily made their way down the path. The girl had been resistant to the idea of Yoshii being a murderer, balking at the request to warn Mikomi. Unable to convince the stubborn monstrel, Kurumu had brought her to Moka's suite so the vampire could testify as another witness to Yoshii's criminal activity.
"We don't know how involved Mr. Sawayaka is with Yoshii."
"Do you really think he burned down our home and killed Hinagiku?"
Kurumu sighed, aware how tough this was for the monstrel to digest. Tokori had kept her company in the commissary while doing laundry with Tora. The girl had still been reluctant to believe Yoshii was a killer so Kurumu had asked Tora to watch over them while she shared with Tokori her memory of Kusutate's murder. Because of the panic this put Tokori in, Kurumu had spent the night in her own suite.
"I find that more likely than blaming Yakumaru."
"What do you guys plan to do about him?"
Kurumu shrugged, having no better an answer this morning than last night.
"I know we can't fight someone as strong as him. We got lucky."
"I think Mother delayed my arrival to avoid my interference in that. She saw something in my eyes that made her hold me. She doesn't do things like that often."
Kurumu regarded Kokoa thoughtfully.
"I am fine with never seeing that guy again. The Headmaster said we only needed Fusamina, so capturing him is more important."
Tokori smiled with a slight shake of her head.
"Good luck with that. Fusamina is a second generation monstrel, his mother being a mix of Tengu and Okami. Rumors are his father was a Sylph, so he's possibly the fastest boy in school."
Kokoa huffed.
"I've never considered Tengu as fast monsters."
"Maybe not on foot, but Tengu can fly faster than any creature can run."
"Is my servant thinking she can educate me?"
"I've lived with Tengu for years. Flying is always faster than running."
"I don't know, Kurumu. Ginei is very fast."
Kurumu snorted, waving her free hand dismissively.
"That's about all he's good at."
"Do you guys have any kind of plan to capture him?"
"I already told the teachers where he was staying."
Tokori chuckled, shaking her head.
"So what's the real plan to capture him?"
Kurumu smiled softly, supposing she was being too hopeful to think the faculty could apprehend Fusamina for them. She squeezed Moka's hand.
"There's a chance Fusamina might know Yoshii wants Moka. Maybe if we offer her up, he'll show."
"I think you're hoping for too much."
"Yoshii told me that Midou had done more than what was asked. I'm certain Midou knew Yoshii, which is why he had Yakumaru kill him."
"While that makes sense, I don't understand why he left Fusamina alive."
"Didn't you just say he would be hard to catch?"
"Not for Yoshii. That guy always had an odd way of being somewhere without you knowing. I'm sure if he wanted to find Fusamina, he could."
"Well… he didn't know Fusamina was alive."
"It's been days since then. I don't know what Yoshii does when he comes to Mononoke, but I can't believe he failed to find Fusamina."
Kurumu pondered that until they reached the main trail to the school.
"Maybe it was Yoshii's idea to create the paper."
"Why? Killing Fusamina would be easier."
"Maybe it did not matter."
Tokori frowned at Moka.
"What do you mean?"
"Kurumu had his name. How many people in Mononoke know his name?"
Tokori's caramel eyes lit up.
"He had way too many loose ends."
"He said he should kill Kurumu, but he ran."
"But having Fusamina publish a stupid paper hardly seems a ploy to capture you?"
Kurumu shrugged, aware that the others were similarly confused. The peek into Tensai's mind revealed the girl had no idea of there being a plan against Moka. The girl had not worried over finding out what motives Fusamina had.
"I wonder what they did with Dokugo, Tensai and Gijutsu."
"I doubt they let them go home. They might have locked them up in the cellar."
"The cellar?"
"It's a small prison that the school has beneath the kitchen. It's arguably the safest place they could be kept short of having them in the Headmaster's quarters."
Kurumu smirked, shaking her head.
"I could see that old man bragging about his poor reputation and the troubles of keeping a couple high school girls tied to his bed."
Tokori grimaced.
"I hope they were kept in the cellar."
"Do you think they will get suspended?"
Tokori sighed with a glance about. As they had left the suite a little after seven, they would be at school well before most students finished eating at the dining hall. There was not much reason to be worried about being overheard, as the next group of students in either direction were well out of earshot.
"I doubt it. Telling Tobi's parents about her crush on Fusamina would be punishment enough. There's no way either of those elitists would allow her to be with such a lowlife."
"Are her parents that important?"
"Her father is a retired architect. He helped design a lot of the changes to the school over the years."
"What about Dokugo?"
"She's always in the top fifty of her class, occasionally breaking the top thirty. This is the first time she's ever done something like this, so I can't see them suspending her over it."
Kurumu nodded, knowing only what Tensai had seen.
"Dokugo wrote the articles for them but had not asked what Tensai planned to do with them. Tensai and Gijutsu spent the whole night printing out those fake papers before he left to dispose of Kana's laptop."
"That was so wrong of them to do that to her."
Kurumu nodded at Moka, aware how disappointed Kana had been to learn of her laptop's demise. The blond had somewhat expected she would not get her laptop back by the time they had brought the bad news, having discussed likely scenarios with Tora during their uneventful day.
"And Gijutsu didn't know it was going to happen that next morning. Tensai handed over the papers to Fusamina and he did the rest."
"It's amazing when you think about it. Azuki penned a whole newspaper by herself in the span of two nights and a day. I bet she had to skip school Tuesday."
Kurumu shrugged, having not asked about Dokugo's attendance.
"I guess we'll stop in the lounge and ask if Fusamina has been apprehended. If not, maybe I can convince them to let me participate in the morning broadcast. Call Fusamina out. Tell him about Moka and how we caught the others."
Tokori chuckled, shaking her head.
"That sounds too much like a trap. Why would he show up?"
"I don't know. Maybe we act like villains? Tell him we'll hurt Tensai if he doesn't show up?"
"We can't do that."
"I hate to say it, but I doubt he shows up no matter what you might say."
Kokoa huffed, turning her nose up.
"What choice does he have? He has no place to live and nobody left to help him."
"That's true. It's only a matter of time before he loses his presumed dead status."
"Do you need to capture him?'
Kurumu frowned at Tokori. The girl smiled sheepishly.
"I mean, when you think about it, it's over. How could they go through with the expulsion at this point? I can confirm that Yoshii is the man whom killed Mr. Kusutate. If Mr. Sawayaka or Mikomi shares with us how long Yoshii has been in Mononoke, you would think that would be enough evidence to back up your statements of this all being a plot to kidnap Ms. Akashiya."
"I'm sure there will be some circumstantial garbage thrown at us. We probably need Fusamina to claim the whole thing was Yoshii's fault."
"There's no guarantee that he knows Yoshii is in town."
Kurumu shrugged, recalling her first reaction when the Headmaster had told her about Fusamina.
"I don't think the Headmaster cares about the truth. He just wants Fusamina to confess."
Tokori sighed.
"Back to the old PSC methods."
There was nothing Kurumu could say to that. It did sound wrong, but what options did she have? Letting everyone be expelled would not make things better for anyone.
After a long pause, Kurumu squeezed Moka's hand. Moka smiled, glancing off in the distance.
"I miss Tsukune. I wish he would visit the suite."
"We don't know if that's safe. If he were to remove your seal while Kokoa was around-"
"I would finally get to talk with my sister."
Moka laughed, shaking her head.
"You're going to attack her the moment she's out."
"It would be foolish to squander the opportunity to regain my bloodright."
Kurumu grinned at the haughty tone.
"You sound confident."
"I am confident. I have tasted the sweet blood of two pure spirits and hope to acquire my third before the end of the week."
Kurumu smiled with thoughts of Akegawa. The polite girl was shy but serious about her academics. The only reason she had joined gymnastics was because she knew Netsukaze. Kaimura had adopted her on the first day of school because she was adorable and easily flustered. Antai had quickly gravitated to the pair, missing her social group from junior high whom had yet to graduate.
"Do you need me to babysit you in your homeroom another day?"
Kokoa smirked.
"I think I have the situation under control. I don't need to trouble Ms. Honda about switching stations if I have lunch with Hikari every day."
"Hopefully you don't think to make Akegawa your lunch."
"I will if she agrees to it."
"Kokoa. You shouldn't act with such haste."
The vampire grinned at her sister.
"I'm going to mop the floor with her when she comes out. The only blood she's taken is from a weak human and a succubus."
"What's wrong with that?"
"I guess if the goal is to enhance your perfect victim status by becoming weaker and sexier, you couldn't have picked a better pair."
Moka pouted, looking away.
"It's not the blood that matters. It's the strength of the bond."
"Yea, well I'm going to have strong bonds and strong blood. These girls are going to be the best of friends and we're going to rule this school."
Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head.
"If you really want them to be friends, maybe you should make Antai your sylph."
"That girl's an idiot."
Moka smiled warmly, giving Kurumu's hand a squeeze.
"You know academics doesn't measure the strength of someone's heart."
They emerged from the forest, noting the boards that flanked the trail leading up to the front entrance. The signs were marked up with fresh graffiti, declaring the faculty a bunch of pureblood loving trash that promoted school violence.
"I guess that's a safe bet that he hasn't been captured."
Tokori chuckled, shaking her head.
"I don't know what his plan is at this point. What if Yoshii is the one making the graffiti?"
"Maybe someone in the lounge will be able to tell us what's going on."
There was nothing to say as they approached the front doors which were stained in hate speech. Kokoa arrived first, holding the door open for them as she shook her head and muttered something about her servant holding hands and not knowing her place.
Admonished, Kurumu headed over to her shoe cubby to swap out her footwear. Being the only one in an even numbered class, Kurumu's cubby was the farthest down the first aisle. She had changed into her slippers by the time Moka came up the aisle to join her. Smiling, they stepped up the genkan and headed for the back door to the lounge.
"Wait up."
Tokori hopped up and moved to join them. Kurumu paused, waiting for Kokoa to emerge from her aisle. The vampire appeared at the end of the third aisle, glancing at them. She shooed them with her hand as she walked for the grand staircase. Supposing they did not need Kokoa, Kurumu shrugged and headed over to the lounge door. She drew it open, allowing the other two to enter first.
There were several teachers sitting at their desks. A familiar face looked up from one of the nearest desks in the first aisle. Mr. Miyanohara nodded silently at them before returning his attention to his papers. The woman across the aisle from him waved to them.
"Why hello there, Ms. Kurono. And why is Ms. Akashiya on campus?"
The woman got up from her chair, standing as tall as Moka. She had dull black hair cut in a hime style with her sides behind her ears curled up. She peered at them with soft brown eyes behind large rectangular glasses that rested upon her freckled nose. The small spots also graced her ruddy cheeks.
Kurumu had seen this woman before but could not recall a name. The woman cocked her head, crossing her thin arms below her modest bosom. The sleeves of her cerulean blouse were short enough to betray her freckles extended to her forearms. A long, black skirt clung tightly about her hips, tapering in to where it ended at her knees. Black hose continued down to mask her legs with her feet tucked in shiny black flats.
"Well… it could be her last day."
The woman laughed.
"I am aware of this."
Kurumu glanced about, noting Mr. Sawayaka was present. She meekly gestured in his direction.
"We were going to visit with Mr. Sawayaka."
"Hold on. Don't be so quick to run off."
The woman smiled as she held a hand up.
"This might be my only chance to speak with my junior's daughter."
Kurumu frowned with a glance at Moka, whom shrugged.
"I'm sorry. I don't remember if we met."
"Yes, of course. Being a science teacher for the seniors does make it difficult to make convenient excuses to bump into a first year. My apologies. I am Shiki Senda, advisor for the Broadcasting Club. You do have my thanks for helping Mr. Tashikana get our club reinstated."
Kurumu smiled softly.
"That was mostly Ginei's handiwork. So why didn't you get the club reinstated on your own?"
The teacher laughed, shaking her head.
"It was impossible negotiating things with Mr. Kuyo when he first shut the club down. I stopped trying."
"Yea, but, Kuyo has been gone for weeks."
Ms. Senda smiled, shrugging.
"By that point the first years were all taken by other clubs. I know that's not the best excuse, but Mr. Tashikana was already petitioning for the council to return the keys to the PA room and is more than capable of running the club without someone holding his hand."
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean that to sound bad."
The woman chuckled.
"It's fine, Ms. Kurono. I would ask how your mother is doing, but I have the impression from Ms. Nekonome that you are not on the best terms with Ageha."
Kurumu smiled, aware why Ms. Nekonome would feel that way. The only lengthy talk she had shared with her teacher about her mother was back when Ms. Nekonome had revealed the identity of Kurumu's father. Learning her mother had stolen another woman's husband was not a good foundation for a happy conversation.
"Ms. Nekonome has never mentioned you among her friends."
"She prefers the company of other single women, though I think my situation annoys her."
"Why is that?"
"Because my husband is human. I believe my success of juggling the two worlds depresses her."
"Um… Mrs. Senda?"
"Yes, Ms. Meirowasa."
Tokori flinched, looking down.
"I, uh, wondered if you knew about the paper situation."
"Not entirely."
"So you wouldn't know if Mr. Fusamina was apprehended."
"Not that I'm aware of."
Kurumu smiled.
"Would you mind if I had a few words after the morning broadcast?"
"You know we never could get your mother to do that. We tried to get her to do the announcements but she was too shy."
Kurumu chuckled, having a hard time believing her mother was shy.
"Well… I was hoping to make one final appeal to Fusamina. I figure he must be nearby if he keeps making graffiti all over the school."
"You can take that up with Mr. Tashikana. I'm sure he will allow it."
"Thank you. Can we go talk with Mr. Sawayaka now?"
Mrs. Senda chuckled, making a dismissive gesture.
"Fine. But tell your mother to write to her senior. Several of us were surprised to suddenly see another Kurono in these halls."
Kurumu was reluctant to admit her mother probably had forgotten most of them.
"I'm sorry. Mother doesn't ever talk about her high school days."
"Ageha did keep to herself. I graduated a year before her, so she's probably closer to the girls she spent all three years with, like Shizuka, Mimi, Kaori and Megumi."
Kurumu only recognized Nekonome's name in there.
"Not Tsurara?"
"Oh, they were close, but I think the whole situation there at the end would sour things like they did with Michi. That poor woman was certain Ageha was dead in a gutter somewhere."
Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head. She had no idea whom they were talking about.
"I'll be sure to let my mother know that Senda Shiki wants an update."
Kurumu motioned for the two to follow her as she started the short walk along the head of the aisles. None of the other science teachers were present, and she paid no serious attention to the second year teachers in the middle aisle. She noted both desks for Ms. Nekonome and Ms. Sunao were empty, making Mr. Nagamushi the first teacher present in the aisle.
Sitting at the desk across from him was Ms. Zaiten. The crimson haired woman with soft green eyes towered over most women and several men. Her hair was a shaggy mess that fell down past the entire back of the chair she sat in. Kurumu had never spoken with the math teacher, but she was aware that Ms. Zaiten had an accent and there were several rumors over where she might come from.
Kurumu flashed Moka a smile as they started down the aisle, intent on Mr. Sawayaka whom sat on the other side of Mr. Nagamushi. The empty desk across from him had a chair weathered from the abuse of supporting Mr. Umatobi's girth. The massive man often arrived after the tardy bell, according to Kana.
"Hello! Young ladies! I don't believe Ms. Akashiya is supposed to be on campus."
Kurumu chuckled at the warm greeting from Mr. Nagamushi. He had a sleek pair of sunglasses over his eyes and a wide grin. He had on a long sleeved, periwinkle dress shirt with a sage green tie which had a confetti design pattern.
"We're planning to use her as bait to capture the guy vandalizing the school."
Mr. Nagamushi chuckled heartily as Mr. Sawayaka regarded them. The older gentlemen scooted back on his chair into the aisle.
"I don't know if that would be wise."
"Um… how are you doing Mr. Sawayaka?"
The man smiled, turning his attention to Tokori.
"I have a feeling this will be followed by questions about Mr. Yoshii."
Tokori nodded apologetically, causing the teacher to sigh.
"Yes. Yesterday was full of surprises."
"Mr. Sawayaka. When Yoshii's name was brought up, you didn't say anything."
The teacher regarded Kurumu as he relaxed back in his chair.
"Hearing Yoshii's name in the context of murder was unexpected. I was hesitant to ask for details."
"Why?"
"I was hoping it might be a different Yoshii. That turned out not to be the case when both my daughter and I were asked about our connections with him."
"How is Mikomi?"
"She is confused about the sudden interest in Mr. Yoshii."
"Is Mr. Yoshii still staying at your place?"
The teacher shook his head at Tokori's inquiry.
"He left after dinner Sunday night."
Kurumu sighed in relief but felt disappointed. If Yoshii had left Mononoke on Sunday, it probably meant this fake newspaper had nothing to do with him. It might also mean Fusamina had no direct knowledge of Yoshii's involvement in Midou's motives.
"So he's gone."
"Maybe. It is possible he has decided to stay with someone else. He has come to know several locals over the past years."
"Do you know Fujisaki Miyabi?"
Mr. Sawayaka frowned at her.
"I can't say that I do. Why?"
"It's the name of the man Yoshii is working for. They wanted to kidnap Moka."
Mr. Sawayaka smiled with a slight sag of his shoulders.
"I see. So the thought is Yoshii used those boys and things got carried away. I see."
Kurumu frowned.
"Mr. Sawayaka?"
"A pity that all these years have come to this. And here I thought our goals were still the same."
He smiled up at them.
"Be cautious, Ms. Akashiya. People do dangerous things when they are desperate."
"I will."
Mr. Sawayaka nodded, scooting his chair back to his desk.
"Now if you ladies don't mind, I have to prepare for my class. Good luck with Mr. Fusamina."
Kurumu nodded dumbly, stumbling back a step into Tokori. She smiled apologetically as they walked back to the front of the aisle, Moka dawdling behind them without any clue what she was supposed to do. Aware that Mrs. Senda did not have a class first period, Kurumu figured they could ask her where Moka should stay.
As they headed over, Kurumu cast a glance back at Mr. Sawayaka. It was difficult to explain what she felt when she saw him steadily jot things down in his notebook. His posture seemed more crestfallen and his motions resigned.
It was like watching the death of a dream.
Kurumu stood on the roof, gripping the railing as she peered out to the woods at the far end of the school grounds. Less than a week ago she had been up here on her own, faced off against a dangerous man intent on killing her if she did not give in to his demands. She hoped today would be different.
She had made her challenge to Fusamina shortly after classes had started. She had no idea if the boy had heard her, but hoped the murmurs of gossip circulating the school would catch his attention. She would be sorely disappointed if he stood her up, especially since she had broken poor Ushio's heart by denying him her company on what could possibly be her final lunch hour. The big brute actually had cried while chuckling about how it was no big deal since there was always tomorrow.
"Do you think he will show?"
Kurumu smiled at Moka. The faculty had decided to let the vampire attend her classes as normal. If anything could be said about this tragedy, it was that it had definitely made Moka more famous. Kurumu was certain she had seen a couple second years hanging out in class three when she had fetched Moka for lunch. It seemed like everyone wanted to hear from Moka why she had given her blood to someone as weak and pitiful as Tsukune. Kurumu had a feeling if they did get out of this expulsion as Kokoa predicted, she was going to hear a lot more about Moka's selfless love and sacrifice. At this point, Kurumu felt she could have sex with Tsukune in the courtyard in front of the whole school and they would still brag about the depths of Moka's love.
"I'm starting to hope he doesn't show up."
"Why?"
"Because if I'm expelled with the two of you, I won't have to hear about how much you love him."
Moka smiled, gripping the rail.
"I do love him."
Kurumu rolled her eyes.
"And how does she feel about it?"
"She likes his blood."
Kurumu snorted a laugh, shaking her head.
"That sounds like her."
"You don't understand."
"I thought she was worried about Tsukune's blood making her weak."
Moka reached up to clutch the rosary dangling from the black choker about her neck. She sighed.
"The vampire adapts to the blood she takes inside her. But she's also scared of losing me."
"What are you talking about?"
"She wants to be stronger. But she doesn't know if I can be made stronger."
"Now I'm really confused."
"Kokoa is making herself stronger by taking in the essence of purebloods. With an undine's blood, she will be able to regenerate from wounds faster and be able to heal others. With a gnome, she will become more durable and resilient. That girl was already tough to put down. Enhancing those strengths will put her on Kahlua's level of perseverance."
"So?"
"She wants Tora. She wants Ginei."
Kurumu frowned.
"I don't think Kokoa has even met Ginei."
"I'm not talking about Kokoa. I'm talking about her."
Kurumu paused till it dawned on her.
"Oh! Well… she is a vampire."
"But what's the point if I suppress any powers she gets from their blood?"
"But… you were immune to my charm and kiss."
"That's what she finds confusing. She doesn't know if that's because I'm getting stronger, or if that's because I'm breaking. She doesn't know if I can be made stronger. She's scared because she doesn't know what she can do."
Kurumu sighed, unable to offer any consolation. These were questions only Akasha could answer. The Headmaster might have some clues and so might that Touhou guy from China.
"Well… you haven't held back on drinking my blood this past week."
Moka laughed, shaking her head. She leveled a pout on Kurumu.
"I was weak Saturday and learning something important from Kokoa."
Kurumu smirked, wondering if nipping Tsukune like that would make him lose bodily control.
"Is she upset with what we did last weekend?"
Moka sighed, looking away.
"She thinks I'm being stupid, but she's more forgiving of that than when I long for Tsukune."
Kurumu reached over, placing her hand atop Moka's against the rail.
"So she's cool with us running away together."
Moka choked out a laugh, shaking her head with a heavy sigh.
"I think she would start screaming mad if we started doing anything more than kissing."
Kurumu smiled, giving Moka's hand a squeeze.
"I was following your lead. You only have yourself to blame if it goes further than that."
"I want to kiss Tsukune. Lots and lots of kisses."
Kurumu smiled, thinking that would be nice. While she could not enjoy kissing as fully due to her opiate tainting her lips, Tsukune had found ways around this handicap. Lots of kissing on the neck to get her arousal up to the point that kissing on the breasts became delicious.
"Is Tsukune expressive?"
"Expressive?"
"Like… I notice you make a lot of sounds when being kissed."
Kurumu had not thought much about it. She made sounds because it felt good and it drove Tsukune crazy. It made him want her more which made everything feel better so she made even more sounds. It was a wonderful cycle.
"You make a lot of sounds too."
"That's not what I asked."
"I don't really notice if he makes sounds or not. I can feel that he likes it when I moan, so I let my voice out more. I noticed you like it too."
Moka blushed, bowing her head.
"It's reassuring to know you like it."
Kurumu smiled softly, withdrawing her hand.
"Moka. I'm not going to encourage you to have sex with Tsukune."
Moka blushed darker.
"I wasn't asking about that!"
Kurumu smirked.
"You're trying to sweet talk me into a threesome and I'll admit it's tempting since I am curious what expressions you would make."
"Oh my God, I'm not like that. Marriage is a union between a man and wife."
"So what is the deal then with all this kissing? I can't figure out what it is you want from me."
"I don't know. I'm just…"
Moka trailed off, shaking her head. Kurumu thought about how things had developed since she had forced that kiss on Moka at the hill. She wondered if she had done things differently if this situation between them would have not come to pass.
"Curious. You're curious, and I'm safe."
"And you don't feel the same?"
Kurumu realized this did go both ways. Moka was so safe that she had been willing to put a baby in her.
"Maybe we should run away together."
Moka laughed, shaking her head. Kurumu stepped back in to squeeze Moka's hand again.
"I'm serious. I don't know if I want Tsukune to see those expressions of ecstasy on your face."
"Not fair that he got to see yours."
Kurumu waved her hand dismissively.
"That's debatable. It's hard making love to him when I have to worry about charming him into doing things that could hurt him. Half the time we're doing it from behind just to avoid the hassle."
Moka blushed, turning her face away.
"Oh. So that's how it is."
Kurumu grinned, aware that the conversation was making Moka uncomfortable.
"Why do you still want him?"
"I love him."
"You could have another guy."
"So could you."
"Not really. Sounds to me like dating an Undine is my only alternative."
"And you forget that the Rite of Ascension would be required of any guy that isn't a vampire. Why would I want to give up on Tsukune now when he has passed this test? It's my blood in him."
"Now you sound like your mother. Well I've made sacrifices for him too."
Moka sighed.
"It is pointless to argue over this. Mother will have the final say in what happens to him."
"Do you believe she will hand him over to you?"
Moka's shoulders slumped.
"No. We should all run away."
Kurumu laughed, snuggling up against the vampire.
"There you go trying to sweet talk me again."
"You know at some point you will have to tell him that you can't have children with him."
Kurumu sighed.
"I hope not. I want Tsukune to stay with me because he wants to, not because he feels he owes me."
Moka paused for a moment. She nodded.
"To think this is what a vampire talks about."
To their left on the other side of the railing was a young man wearing a black ball cap over his shaggy blond locks. He wore a white jacket with black sleeves over a yellow tee with a black insignia of a shield divided in four quadrants. Two quadrants were simple horizontal stripes while the other top quadrant featured a lion standing on its hind legs with three stars behind its back.
"Bickering over a boy while others die for righteous causes."
The young man shook a canister while his other hand was tucked in the pocket of his long, khaki shorts. A pair of school slippers graced his feet. He leveled the canister at the roof, depressing the red tip which released a yellow mist which stained across the tiles of the roof.
Kurumu vaulted over the railing. She walked half the distance towards Fusamina, noting the spray taking the shape of words. She had to smirk when she realized he was scrawling out Girl's Love.
"It's time for you to turn yourself in."
Fusamina chuckled, shaking his head.
"I'm quite aware of at least three teachers skulking about and ready to pounce on me the moment I give in to your childish demands."
"Childish? I'm not the one that published a fake paper pretending to be someone I'm not."
Fusamina shrugged, chucking the spray can over his shoulder as he turned to regard her.
"I was never a fan of Kusabi's direct approach. Why beat someone down when you can ruin their reputation? Words have meaning. You can see their power. It forced your whole club to be confined to their dorm rooms."
"For their safety. The faculty already knows that paper was a fake. We have Tensai, Dokugo and Gijutsu in custody and confessing to the ruse."
Fusamina smirked.
"Of course. That's always been the way of this administration. Capture a few monstrels. Force them to confess to crimes they didn't commit. This changes nothing."
Kurumu scowled.
"It does when it's true. You used that girl."
"Oh please. You're so annoying. Being used is how the world works. If you're useful to somebody, you will be used. Just like the two of you are using that weakling Aono to feed your egos."
Kurumu found that statement rather irritating. She would have never regarded her relationship with Tsukune as simple as her using him.
"Yoshii used you."
Fusamina laughed, taking his hand out of his pocket.
"I thought about not showing up. But I don't think I could forgive myself if I passed up my last chance of evening the score with the vampires."
"How do you think kidnapping Moka for Yoshii would even the score?"
"I don't."
He flashed by her in a painful blur. She heard Moka cry out as Kurumu staggered forward, blood dripping from several shallow gashes across her torso. He had sliced clean through her clothes with three cuts across her right midsection and a jagged slash down her left shoulder. She could feel her bra sag from the loss of support as she gripped her shoulder.
"The way I see it, Yoshii has about as much use for me as he did Mako. He'd probably kill me the moment I handed Akashiya over to him."
Moka had vaulted over the rail and ran over to Kurumu's side. She helped Kurumu get back on her feet as they regarded the young man standing on a dormer. He had cast off his slippers. His feet had elongated into long blades similar to ice skates.
"Then turn yourself in! There's no reason for you to fight us anymore!"
Fusamina laughed at Moka's pleas.
"And what would that accomplish? Will the school become a better place for monstrels if I come crawling to the faculty for protection? I'll tear this school to pieces if they won't listen to the truth."
Kurumu grimaced as she straightened up. Blood was already seeping into the hem of her skirt. On a positive note, since it had been the day after laundry, she was wearing the last of her original blouses which did not quite fit correctly. Or she was wearing the one Satsuki had given her.
"So much for that talk about being against the direct approach."
"Please! If we quit this school, would it make things better? Tell me what you want!"
Fusamina scowled.
"Yoshii can go fuck himself. I figure if I take that pretty head of yours off, I'll avenge everyone that died because of you."
Kurumu let go of Moka as she stared at him.
"You will turn yourself in."
The young man pulled his hat down over his eyes as he lowered into a crouch.
"You won't stop me!"
He darted forward with the same speed as before. Kurumu did not dare blink her eyes as she pushed with all her will to force Fusamina to concede the futility of harming them. She had no time to reason. She had to believe he would alter course.
She saw the moment Fusamina collided with another blurry figure. The strike came with such force that it sent Fusamina flying off in the opposite direction the new arrival had come from. The young monstrel slammed through the railing, bending and breaking the steel bars. Several roof tiles were shattered in the wake of his path to the railing, where his legs still hung in view.
Their savior was dressed in a simple tee and track pants. Ginei chuckled, shaking his left hand. He turned a grin upon them, brushing back his dark locks which were held in place by a crimson bandana.
"What were you two doing with that guy? You know if you want a good time, I'm always available."
Kurumu smirked as Moka darted over to hug him.
"Thanks, Ginei."
Their senior chuckled, lowering his hands to return the embrace. Moka squeaked in alarm when his hands went a bit too low, though at least not under her skirt. The vampire pushed him back as Ginei chuckled, bouncing back a couple steps.
"Not like that!"
Kurumu sighed, sharing Moka's distress as she walked over to hug Moka's side, inadvertently smearing blood across the green jacket.
"Sorry, but if you want a polite rescue, you'd have to call on Tsukune."
"You're such a dog."
"Well done, Ms. Kurono. It seems you have completed your task."
Standing near the broken railing was the Headmaster flanked by familiar teachers. The large Mr. Ikuhata had the unconscious Fusamina slung over his broad shoulder. The silent Mr. Miyanohara stood on the Headmaster's left while the formally dressed Mr. Yokoyama stood on his right.
"I guess we're lucky Ginei was around since we would have been dead before you did anything."
The Headmaster chuckled.
"I can assure you that none of us would have been fast enough to prevent that."
"Indeed, Ms. Kurono. You were told that we were not able to catch this individual. His capture always hinged on how you subdued him."
Kurumu sighed at Mr. Yokoyama's nasal scolding.
"So… are we free from the threat of expulsion?"
"We will make that decision after talking with Mr. Fusamina."
Kurumu scowled at the teacher.
"That's not what I was told."
The Headmaster chuckled.
"Apologies, Ms. Kurono, but there are proper procedures which must be observed. Regardless of the outcome, you should take comfort in knowing that you have been useful to me."
Kurumu sighed, supposing after hearing all this talk about being used softened this revelation.
"You'll have to make a decision soon since you promised we would be leaving tomorrow."
The Headmaster laughed.
"Yes, I do expect your entire club to attend school tomorrow. I trust you will pass this word along to all of your club members, Mr. Morioka."
Ginei smirked, turning to face the Headmaster while crossing his arms about his chest.
"Does this include my sleepy girl in the hospital?"
"It does, Mr. Morioka. Now if you'll excuse me, I have much to do with my afternoon. Enjoy yourselves."
Kurumu sighed as the teachers retreated from view. She leaned against Moka, nuzzling the side of her head against the vampire's shoulder.
"I need to get my sports bra from the gym lockers. He broke the strap of the one I'm wearing."
Moka nodded, tugging on her as the vampire guided her to the bloodied break in the railing. Ginei chuckled, slowly following on their heels.
"So what's this about girl's love?"
Satomura's was a small family diner nestled in the grocer district two blocks away from the Mix It Up where Tokori worked. The owners were high school sweethearts whom had graduated from Yokai thirteen years ago. They were one of the sponsors for their paper and had mixed feelings about the recent events, due to their two monstrel children. There was still some food left as the entrées had been placed in the center of the table. The proprietor had encouraged them to serve themselves and ring the bell if they required any further assistance. His diminutive wife had not spoken with them at all.
Despite this poorly conceived contempt, the dinner had been quite enjoyable. Sangi had rounded up quite the large gathering to send Ginei off, including two girls he often spoke about. A majority of the chatter before the food arrived had been Ginei reminiscing with his former classmates about their crazy first year together. It felt almost like the rest of the newspaper club were present as an afterthought.
It was fairly easy to tell their club from the second years, considering all of the upperclassmen were still dressed in school uniforms. Kurumu had decided to end the day wearing her gym clothes, figuring she would do laundry after the party tonight. Moka, whom sat on her right at the foot of the table, had thought about wearing gym clothes with Kurumu but had realized she left hers in the suite.
As they were a large group, Sangi had rented out a side room without windows which featured a long, low table. Ginei had chosen to sit at the head of the table, wearing that vermillion dress shirt and black tie from the trip. He had broken out a suit jacket and gray textured slacks to be the snazziest dressed person in the room.
Tsukune was wearing his black tee with the white Dragon Ash symbol and some jeans. Tora sat on his right, wearing a black polo and tan slacks. She had done her raven hair up in her usual braids. Kana was seated on Tora's other side, wearing a pink tee and white shorts. She was the last of their club on that side of the table, flanked by Sonoda and her two harpy friends whom had helped hand out their last paper. The double door which opened into the rest of the dining area was behind these three girls.
On Kurumu's left was little Nerume dressed in a loose white shirt and navy blue shorts. The kirin had stuffed herself silly the moment the food had been brought out and was already dozing off with Satsuki's shoulder as her pillow. Koike had helped bring the girl to the party, sitting comfortably on Satsuki's other side. Both were dressed in their PSC jackets, and so was Kitajima whom sat rigidly beside Koike.
Both Kiki and Mizore were absent. Kiki had decided against coming, feeling it would be wrong to leave Kokoa alone in the suite and that she was too new a member to have a proper place at the table. Kokoa declared it disingenuous to attend a farewell party when they would not be expelled. And Mizore had not answered her door. Kurumu felt they would have to bring this up to the Headmaster if the girl failed to appear at school tomorrow.
The remainder of the guests were all here for Ginei. Sangi sat on Ginei's left with Oyanagi beside her. The lovely Okimune was the last person on that side of the table, sitting between Oyanagi and Shouzou. She smiled often and was not timid in her contributions to the conversation.
The other four whom sat on the other side of Kitajima were all new faces. On Ginei's right was this pretty girl with wavy, black hair tied back in two loose tails which fell halfway down her back. She had folded her jacket across her lap so she could sit cross-legged. She was fairly tall and talked mostly with the other girls about the table. She was quite dismissive when Ginei talked to her, turning her nose and rolling her amethyst eyes at every crude remark. She had introduced herself as Hajihachi Mika early on, allowing her two companions to do the same.
The tiny white haired girl with the black horn in the center of her forehead was Miyake Yuniko. Kurumu recalled seeing this girl among the track team but had not interviewed her nor cared too much about matching the name to a face. The poor thing was born with the horn, inspiring her name. She was unable to suppress this birth defect, which doomed her to always remain in the spiritual realm. She was a shy girl, not much taller than Tora, and had only tagged along because Hajihachi had insisted on her company. It also helped that she was his former classmate.
The last of the girls was Shikichi Akatori, the class rep of Ginei's former class and current class. She was a loud, domineering girl with cinnamon locks which were feathered and trimmed short, almost boyish. It was obvious that she liked giving Ginei a hard time but had trouble dealing with his flirtatious remarks. She had golden eyes like many of the other Tengu girls.
The last member at the table was a stocky young man with sky blue eyes and a wild, spiky mess of ashen gray locks. Miyamoto Haiji was often the topic of many of the jokes, especially with him being seated next to a Tengu girl and across from three cackling harpies. He surprisingly said little in his defense, ignoring the frequent innuendo as one might if surrounded by a bunch of giggling girls speaking a foreign language. She had to wonder if this guy truly was a member of some deviant loli appreciation club.
"Quiet down, everyone. I have a quick question."
Kurumu smiled at Ginei whom was making downward gestures with his hand. He grinned.
"Should we wake sleeping beauty up?"
Satsuki chuckled as Kurumu absently ran her fingers through Nerume's unbound hair.
"I think we can leave her alone."
"I was going to check if she would be interested in dessert."
"You are pushing your luck on my dime."
Ginei chuckled, flashing Sangi a grin.
"Am I not worth it?"
"Ginei enjoys to live off the charity of others."
Ginei smirked at the girl seated on his right.
"Charity? I could swear that all your gifts were circumstantial."
Mika huffed, turning her nose away as she stirred her drink with a black straw.
"It's not like I lacked friends to give those things to. Ungrateful dog."
Ginei grinned, relaxing back with his palms on the floor.
"I am grateful to see so many faces show up. I was starting to think nobody cared."
Shikichi snorted, leaning forward on the table.
"That's because you keep picking fights that are too big. First the PSC and now the Outcasts. What's next? Are you going to overthrow the student council?"
Ginei chuckled, waving his hand dismissively.
"I believe you will be sad to see me go, Akatori. Your life will be so boring without me in it."
"Boring? I think you meant to say normal."
Koike chuckled, shaking his head.
"I think everyone here will be disappointed to see you off. I heard they're going to make a big deal of it. The Voice told everyone to report to the auditorium after first period attendance."
Kurumu smiled, aware that this announcement had been made over the PA right before the conclusion of eighth period. She had no idea what to expect, but Kokoa remained adamant. The vampire was certain that she would complete her term at Yokai, restraining herself from sinking her teeth in Akegawa when she had held the salamander during lunch. She was hoping to convince Ishiko to join her lunch group after discovering the quirky little gnome ate by herself in one of the science rooms.
Not much had happened after their hostile encounter with Fusamina. Kurumu had spoken a little with Tokori during home economics. Mikomi's absence had greatly troubled Tokori, having the girl hope she could figure things out the next period when she had Mr. Sawayaka as her instructor. Kurumu had no idea how that turned out, having been hustled off campus by Kokoa shortly after the end of school.
"I can't claim to know what those old codgers have in store for our club. We caught that Fusamina guy Kurumu told everyone about last week, but they said they would have to review our case."
Koike chuckled, shaking his head.
"I will say if you do squeeze out of this one, it would be amazing."
"Considering his expulsion is based on him breaking the rules of a suspension, I doubt it."
Koike jostled the stiff Kitajima.
"A suspension only in place because of other factors."
"Rules are rules, Mr. Koike."
"Look, I agree that there are correct ways of going about things but Ginei was acting under the direction of the Headmaster. Ms. Kurono was ordered to bring in a guy and Ginei had to break the terms of his suspension to allow her to succeed."
"He could have assisted her without breaking the suspension."
"Then increase his suspension. I don't see the point of expulsion."
"Rules are rules."
Koike sighed, waving dismissively.
"I'm sure there are punishments for walking in a room full of undressing women."
Kitajima snorted, refraining from comment.
"Speaking of undressing women, does any young lady at the table wish to spend the night with me on what could potentially be my last night at our fine school?"
Several of the older girls laughed at Ginei's remark, some including their refusal. Kurumu noted neither Okimune nor Hajihachi expressly rejected him which had her tossing a glance at Tora. The sphinx must have noticed the same thing as she smiled softly before looking down at her emptied plate.
"I surmise you will be going home alone with that remark."
"Haiji, my man. Is there a lady at the table you would like the company of?"
Miyamoto had his arms crossed about his chest as he regarded the trio of harpies across the table. He closed his eyes and bowed his head.
"There is not."
Sonoda frowned while the other two girls giggled. Shouzou jostled Sonoda by the shoulder as Kazashimo gestured across the table.
"Does this include Shibichi?"
Shikichi scowled at the harpies.
"You only talk shit because I don't have Hazuka with me."
"Ooo, what is Nobodi going to do? My hair?"
Kurumu had picked up in the earlier conversation that Noboru Hazuka was Shikichi's best friend and part of the fashion club with Hajihachi. Both Noboru and Tashiro Jirito had been invited, but neither cared enough about Ginei to see him off. Tashiro was another track girl whom like Shikichi had the misfortune of being in his homeroom again.
Kurumu was a little disappointed that Kamitsuku and Uchiyama had decided not to come. Considering Kamitsuku had been the one to inform her of the party, she had assumed he would be here. She figured she would have a small window to talk with him tomorrow morning about why he ditched them like this. She could ask him tonight if nobody protested her spending the night in Tsukune's room.
"Jokes aside, I'm surprised you didn't make an offer on my sleeping beauty."
Miyamoto stiffened. He turned a solemn gaze upon Ginei.
"Lady Otonashi would be saddened to know you allowed such harm to befall such a precious girl."
Kurumu smirked, poking Nerume in the shoulder. The girl grumbled in protest, reaching up to clutch Satsuki's arm. Satsuki chuckled, poking the girl's cheek with her free hand.
"What happened was not Morioka's fault."
Miyamoto turned his gaze upon Tsukune.
"His poor leadership allowed for unsafe circumstances. Leaving her in the care of a budding vampire was a mistake."
Tora sighed as Satsuki scowled. Tsukune bowed his head.
"I'm sorry."
"It's not Tsukune's fault."
"It's shameful for a man to rely on women for protection."
Sonoda sighed, shaking her head.
"You make it sound like women can't protect anything."
"It's a man's role to be the protector."
The other two harpies chuckled as Sonoda settled back on her haunches.
"I think we have managed fine without some masculine defender flaunting his testosterone."
"Oh be quiet. Don't even pretend that your harpy culture is anything but a leech off the Tengu. Every single community of yours is close to one of ours."
Kazashimo snorted, crossing her arms about her chest.
"You want to take this outside, Shibichi? I'd shut that beak of yours if it wasn't so far up your ass."
"I'm game, little twit. Leave your chicks on the sidelines and I'd happily put you in your place.
The blond Shouzou grabbed Kazashimo by the shoulder when the girl tried to stand.
"Stop. She'll hurt you again."
Kazashimo scowled as Shikichi smirked.
"I'm not letting her say that!"
"Ladies, please. There will be no fighting unless it involves wearing bikinis."
Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head.
"The decision for Tsukune to have an escort was mine. Ginei had nothing to do with it."
Miyamoto regarded Tora solemnly.
"It's his club. He should have more control over the members."
"Ease up, Miyamoto. They had one of ours with them and Ms. Nazohashi is our official liaison."
"I don't think it necessary for me to explain my issues with the PSC. If your group truly wanted to offer assistance to the Newspaper Club, your execution was poor. Utilizing your weakest members is not a serious commitment."
Kurumu sighed, reaching over Nerume to scratch at Satsuki's sienna locks. She could tell Satsuki was agitated by Miyamoto's words.
"Sounds like a fair assessment coming from someone whom did nothing."
Miyamoto regarded her with a slight nod.
"I was not requested to do anything."
"Shouldn't you help a friend when he needs it?"
"Ms. Kurono. A woman does not understand that a man has pride."
Sonoda rolled her eyes at Kitajima's declaration.
"And a woman doesn't?"
"It would be disrespectful to assist a man whom has not asked for help."
"But you could have asked Ginei if he needed help."
Okimune smiled as attention turned upon her.
"We all know Ginei is foolish enough to try to do everything on his own. I asked if I could do more when he brought Mr. Aono to me, but he's as bad as the two of you."
Ginei chuckled, shaking his head.
"I couldn't take your offer to get mixed up in a fight with the Outcasts. Now if you wanted to offer your companionship so I'm not as lonely during the night, I'd have to accept."
Okimune smiled, glancing aside.
"You should be more thoughtful of your company."
Ginei grinned, turning his attention upon a flush Hajihachi.
"Does Mika plan to profess her undying love to me?"
"As if I would do that."
"If Ginei had asked for my help, I would have offered it. He decided to do this on his own."
Ginei sighed at the seriousness of Miyamoto.
"You are a real bummer. I don't want to talk about how things could have gone better. I've had weeks of that discussion with myself and it doesn't do any good."
"Yea. This isn't the right way to have a farewell party."
Ginei smiled at Sangi. Sighing deeply, he regarded the three guys.
"It's charming to hear that you would have helped if I had asked. But considering how the whole lot of you ran for the hills when the PSC dismantled the club Lady Otonashi built… I think my actions were in line with what I could expect from you."
Kitajima huffed.
"I disagreed with what happened and retired from the PSC immediately. Miyamoto refused Hineri's offer to join the PSC."
"But both of you did nothing for the Newspaper Club."
"We were never part of the Newspaper Club, nor did we have a hand in the article you pushed that got the club torn apart."
Koike nodded at Kitajima's remark.
"You destroyed her club, Morioka."
Ginei smirked.
"So why should I have called on you for help?"
Miyamoto sighed heavily.
"Because these girls rebuilt it for you. I would have helped for their sake."
"You do have a fine group of girls handling things for you."
Ginei chuckled at Okimune's remark.
"Well I wouldn't call Tsukune a girl but I can understand the confusion with the whole weak and helpless image he projects."
Despite the sour mood, most of the upperclassmen chuckled at his jest.
"I do have to admit it is uncanny how Morioka gets a bunch of girls to flock to him."
Kitajima snorted at Koike.
"I presume it's the romantic notion of fixing a lost cause. A woman can feel useful in the service of a man with many flaws."
"And I guess that would explain why no girl has ever considered speaking with you."
"I am sorry, Ginei."
Ginei waved dismissively at Sangi.
"I'm not upset with any of you. Just annoyed with these blowhards pretending like I should have believed they would do anything for me."
"I'm sorry too."
Ginei smiled at Hajihachi whom was regarding her hands in her lap.
"I'm the one that should apologize here. Though leaving unsigned Valentine's chocolates in my shoe cubby was not the smartest thing to do."
Hajihachi lowered her head, glancing away.
"I didn't do that."
"Then I correctly pitched them?"
"You threw them away?"
Ginei smirked, with a shrug.
"I mean, we all know what happened the last time Nakamoto gave me something to eat."
Koike grimaced.
"Please don't bring that up."
Hajihachi straightened up her shoulders, turning her nose away with a huff.
"Well, you made the right decision because I didn't give you anything."
"I know Nakamoto is awkward but she means well."
Kurumu frowned at Oyanagi's sudden contribution.
"Your cousin is the reason why three of our classmates won't even talk to me anymore."
"You didn't have to break up with Ms. Hidarimeki."
Koike sighed heavily. Shaking his head, he stood up.
"I think I'm going to call it a night, if it's all the same. We don't have anything else planned, right?"
Sangi shook her head as Kitajima joined Koike. Miyamoto slung his jacket over his shoulder.
"Haiji. Are you still mixed up with Kirameku's fan club?"
"I have been kept busy with club. Our advisor insists that I handle all the scheduling of our matches against the other schools."
"If you could reach out to them, I would like to know if there are any new girls on their radar. We might need some additional income."
Kurumu chuckled, shaking her head.
"Didn't we get some funding from the student council?"
"That's not enough to cover our publishing costs. And this whole mess with the Outcasts has cost us quite a bit with the local community. I've asked around and it sounds like we'll be losing over half of our sponsors at the end of the first term."
"It amazes me that you are still concerned with that."
Ginei smiled as Miyamoto got to his feet.
"I have to be optimistic."
Miyamoto smirked, shaking his head.
"I'll let you know Monday if you are still around."
"Good night, Morioka."
"Hold up. We're going to come with you."
Sonoda was picking up her jacket and slinging it on. The other two harpies exchanged a look, both shrugging and doing the same.
"Yea, we should tag along. Make you feel like men by protecting us weak women."
"The three of you better not be thinking of raping Haiji."
The blond snickered as she was the first to her feet. Koike had reached the door, drawing it open while Kitajima and Miyamoto paused for the other girls to get ready.
"You don't need to worry about that, Ms. Shikichi. We'll keep an eye on him."
"I hear it's more personal if you keep your eyes on him."
Sonoda backhanded the taller Kazashimo before getting to her feet. She shook her head, favoring Miyamoto a smile.
"It was fun, Ginei. I hope things do work out for you and your club."
"You best tell me if she gets on top of things, Majo."
The blond grinned, lingering at the door beside Koike. She shook her head.
"I'm not doing that to Kamoko. Ask your boy for details."
Sonoda chuckled as she headed out of the room with Kazashimo beside her. Shouzou made a quick wave and followed after them with Koike and the other two guys on her heels. The door remained open as the chatter of the harpies drew distant.
"Well, now that Haiji's harem has left, I suppose the rest of these girls belong to me."
Shikichi snorted.
"In your dreams."
"I don't see you running out the door to be with Haiji."
"You don't understand Haiji at all."
"I understand he would be arrested if they ever opened up an elementary school in Mononoke."
Yuniko laughed in her sweet little voice. It instantly soothed Shikichi's ire. The girl leaned over and fussed with the long braided tail that hung down Yuniko's back.
"I think we should be letting Nakamoto know you're willing to date anyone that asks."
Ginei sighed.
"How many people must I bribe to keep that quiet?"
"What has he offered you, Oyanagi?"
Oyanagi's face turned scarlet.
"Nothing important."
Shikichi's golden eyes regarded him.
"That's highly suspicious. You're not missing any lingerie?"
Okimune giggled, shaking her head.
"Everything is accounted for."
"Don't trust these perverts. He's probably taking pictures of you."
"Oh, I hope Ginei would not think of doing anything as deviant as that."
The smirk on Ginei's lips was not promising.
"Speaking of this gorgeous, young woman, I hear you are secretly longing to be with someone."
"I think every person longs to be with someone."
"Yes, but you seem to be turning down guys whom I know you could be with. Poor Namida was your latest victim. He told me all about it."
"I grew up with Namida and he asks me out at least twice a year."
"Yes, but I hear that you are in love with someone else."
"I hope you aren't thinking yourself to be that person."
"I would not oppose to being him."
Okimune smiled, glancing across the table. Sighing, she regarded Ginei.
"I will miss you. Most guys don't put in the effort to flirt with me the way you do."
"I do feel it's a man's duty to make a woman feel wanted."
Okimune grinned, turning to Sangi.
"Would you mind if I have Oyanagi walk me home?"
"You want to walk alone with me?!"
Sangi chuckled at her flustered companion.
"I think it would be better if we both went with you."
"I can manage walking with her on my own."
Sangi smirked, placing a hand on Oyanagi's shoulder.
"You were supposed to be my escort, dork."
"But you can't leave before ordering some dessert."
"I already paid for what we ordered. I'm not about to get suckered in for dessert."
Ginei sighed dramatically.
"You're denying me the last image of Yuniko gobbling down sweets."
"I don't gobble my food."
Kurumu smiled at the tiny girl's protest. Yuniko's appetite was similar to Nerume's. She had eaten more than any of those at that end of the table.
"Are you guys heading out? We probably should too."
"Is everyone leaving?"
Kurumu laughed at Kana's echo of Shikichi's remarks. She offered the blond a shrug, watching as Okimune crawled behind Oyanagi and Sangi to kneel up beside Ginei. She draped her arms about his shoulder and placed a kiss on his cheek. She drew back, whispering something in his ear, causing him to grin broadly.
"Fine. I am convinced."
Okimune giggled, snatching away his bandana and tossing it in Hajihachi's lap.
"You better. Or I will tell Nakamoto about you."
"And what can I bribe you with?"
Okimune laughed, pushing him away by the shoulder before getting up. She offered Sangi a hand as everyone on that side of the table started to get to their feet. Taking that as a cue, Kurumu poked Nerume and nodded at Satsuki.
"I hope you have good news tomorrow."
Ginei grinned at Sangi, whom leaned in to give him a hug. He briefly did the same, the girl wisely drawing out of his reach before he made things uncomfortable.
"You two be gentle with him. It's his first time."
Sangi smacked his chest, shaking her head as she turned away. Oyanagi was pulling his arms through the sleeves of his jacket as Okimune slowly made her way to the open door.
"Help me with her."
Nerume groaned as Kurumu hefted the girl up from behind while Satsuki handled her from the front. Nerume fell into Satsuki's arms, causing the nekomusume to stagger.
"We all don't need to get up yet. I'll help with our sleeping beauty when I'm ready to go."
"Good night, Ginei."
He smiled, nodding at Okimune whom slipped out the door with Oyanagi. Sangi followed after the pair, offering a quick wave.
"Here."
Hajihachi handed Ginei his bandana. She held her jacket in her other hand as she pointedly looked off at the corner of the room.
"Do I get a kiss from you too?"
"Why would I do that?"
Ginei took the bandana and stuffed it in the pocket of his track pant. Grinning, he reached over to brush the wavy locks about Hajihachi's ear.
"Because I'm about to honor the requests of several people in this room and ask you out."
The girl snorted, shaking her head. Yuniko tensed up, an eager look on her angelic face. Shikichi looked annoyed, crossing her arms about her chest.
"That's mean, Morioka. You don't ask a girl out the night before you skip town."
Ginei smirked, withdrawing his hand to clap his chest.
"I swear on my honor that if you spend the night with me, I shall take all responsibility."
"Oh my God."
Tora shook her head, looking away as Hajihachi turned a shade of crimson.
"Don't be stupid. I'm not even interested in you."
Ginei stepped in, grabbing the girl about the waist and tugging her in forcefully. He caught her up in a kiss that shocked Shikichi and had Yuniko holding her hands up over her mouth and nose. Hajihachi made a whimper of protest as she clutched his arms for the first couple seconds. Then her shoulders relaxed and her head tilted. The kiss lasted several more seconds before Ginei pulled his head back.
"Felt interested to me."
Hajihachi shoved him back. Sniffling, she bolted out of the room.
"Mika, wait!"
Yuniko hopped over the table, quickly darting out of the room. Shikichi shook her head, walking around Ginei with a sour look.
"You're such an idiot."
Ginei sighed dramatically, rubbing the back of his head as the last of his classmates departed from the room. He favored them a resigned smile as he started to walk over on Kana's side of the table.
"Well… I told you she would say no."
Tora huffed, shaking her head.
"I don't think you could have possibly handled that any worse."
Ginei shrugged as he stopped beside Kana.
"You've all been badgering me for weeks to pick a girl."
"You played it up like a joke."
Ginei chuckled at Tora.
"I imagine this means I can't ask you to come home with me."
Tora rolled her eyes.
"I think Kana and I shall head back to the dorms. I'm sure Kana doesn't want to spend another night on the floor of Moka's suite."
"That does suck. Do you think it's okay though? I have some stuff in their suite which might be hard to get back if they all leave school."
"I'm sure the faculty will work with us if that happens."
"Care for an escort?"
Tora regarded him coldly.
"I think you're already committed to helping Ms. Genzouyaki. Would you want to come with us, Ms. Unari? I'm sure Ginei can carry her on his own."
"I don't know if I want to leave her alone with him."
Kurumu chuckled, gesturing for Satsuki to hand the snoozing girl over.
"We will walk with Ginei to the hospital. She'll be fine."
Ginei let out another dramatic sigh, shaking his head.
"And to think, if you had been honest and asked me out, this tragic event could have all been avoided."
Tora huffed, shaking her head as she tugged on Kana's sleeve.
"If you're not expelled tomorrow, you better apologize to Ms. Hajihachi."
"Why should I apologize to a girl that broke my poor heart?"
"Oh, shut up."
Ginei chuckled. Noting how Satsuki was struggling to get free of Nerume's grip, the senior hopped over the table and grabbed both girls. Satsuki squealed a protest but endured his touching as he took almost a minute to finally get the girl up in his arms with her arms draped about his neck. He grinned as Satsuki walked over to join the other two, still scowling and holding her arms close to her chest.
"Have a good night, Mr. Morioka."
"Kana."
The blond stuck her tongue out at him as the girls slipped out of the room. Kurumu chuckled, moving over to fuss with Nerume's hair. She was surprised Nerume could sleep through this. Then again, there was so little to do at night in the hospital that Nerume's morning naps were detrimental to her routine. She had to stay awake for her physical therapy sessions, which she had two a day with one being in the morning and the other afternoon.
"Are you planning to pick her up tomorrow morning for the event?"
"I think I will spend the night with her."
Kurumu snorted, shaking her head. Even without the hospital's restrictions against overnight visitors, she doubted Ginei would overcome his reluctance to visit a patient room.
"You'll have to ask her out again."
"I don't know about that. The last girl I asked out twice, rejected me twice."
Kurumu rolled her eyes.
"You asked me out once and the second time was an offhand remark that wasn't the least bit serious."
Moka ended her yawn with an inquisitive note.
"Ginei's been asking you out?"
"You heard him the first time."
"When?"
Kurumu frowned, wondering if Moka had heard the first offer when they had walked over to that fateful encounter with Ms. Kagome. The vampire had been trailing behind with Yukari.
"It's not important. What matters is Ginei needs to be serious when he asks a girl to be his girlfriend."
"I don't know. That kiss looked pretty serious to me."
Kurumu smiled at Tsukune's remark. She sighed, pouting at Ginei.
"You realize she didn't say no. She ran off. You should have ran after her."
Ginei chuckled, squeezing the girl in his arms.
"I think I prefer the company I have right now."
Nerume groaned, lifting her head from his shoulder. She frowned, blinking.
"You're not Satsuki."
Ginei grinned at the girl.
"Nope. I'm a virile man with his hands full of a nubile woman."
Nerume smiled, leaning her head back on his shoulder.
"I have to pee."