The Slime and a Birthday
( Moka's pov )
It was time, finally after months and months of preparation we can finally move forward with our plans. After school ended for the day and after finishing up any homework we had been assigned I called for the girls to meet up in the club room as soon as possible. Other than myself I was currently joined by Kurumu, Shuna and Framea as we sat in the dark with only a single light shining above me.
Moka: Thank you all for coming on such short notice. I know that I called you all here unexpectedly but I'm sure you understand why we are doing this.
Kurumu: Of course we do, this isn't something we can take lightly.
Framea: Exactly, although I am a bit nervous about all of this. Are you sure it's a good idea to resort to this?
Shuna: I don't think we have a reason to worry Framea, after all Moka has taken the time to think this out thoroughly so there's no need to be worried.
Kurumu: Agreed. By the way Moka where are the others, shouldn't they be here by now?
Moka: Don't worry, on my way here I ran into Miia and she said she would get the others and bring them over.
Soon enough we heard knocking on the door as Miia came back inside with the other girls following behind her.
Miia: Mission accomplished Moka, I made extra sure to avoid Kazuto at all costs.
Moka: Good work Miia, now that we're all here it's time we got started.
I then got up and pulled out a whiteboard with several diagrams and photos surrounded by notes and in the center was a picture of Kazuto in a red circle. I then turned to face the girls as my demeanor remained unchanged, this was a serious matter and I needed everyone involved to not only be on the same page but also to be ready to ensure our progress would go unnoticed by anyone outside our circle.
Moka: Kazuto Tempest. This man is our target and if we want to pull this off than we need to do everything in our power to catch him by surprise.
Suphia: Considering that his skills make him extremely perceptive that's easier said than done. Any ideas on how we can bypass that?
Moka: I have one idea in mind, I was actually thinking about asking Kokoa to distract him for a few hours.
Yukari: You sure that's a good idea, I don't think she'll be that excited to hang out with Kazuto for so long.
Kurumu: Probably but what choice do we have? We all know what's at stake here and since Kokoa isn't really participating in our plans we don't exactly have many options.
Shuna: Not to mention that she has started to slowly come around. She isn't as aggressive as when we first met so she might be more likely to agree.
The others didn't seem all that convinced that Kokoa would even agree to helping us but Mizore actually stood up from her seat and walked over to stand beside me.
Mizore: It should be fine, she's not much of a pain anymore so Kazuto should be able to tolerate her for a few hours.
Shion: As long as she can keep Kazuto from discovering our plans we can consider that a success. Our main objective is to ensure that we aren't discovered.
Moka: Exactly. Now if we're all on the same page let's begin planning for our inevitable victory.
Thank goodness that we at least began to agree on something, now we can continue with the topic of discussion and move on to the next phase of our meeting. Suddenly the lights in the room all came on as Kokoa could be seen leaning against the doorframe with Ko on her shoulder wondering what we were up to.
Kokoa: What the heck are you guys doing? And what's with the whiteboard?
Now that the lights were on what was written on the board could be clearly seen as it was scribbled with various ideas for Kazuto's birthday party that I wanted to throw for him. His photo was also decorated with little hearts and a chibi drawing of him smiling with a caption written above it that said " Happy Birthday Kazuto ". I quickly turned the board around to avoid any of my plans getting revealed in case Kazuto happened to show up as unlikely as it might be.
Suphia: Kokoa what are you doing here? Did Moka call you here?
Kokoa: Of course she didn't, I was busy minding my own business when I saw Miia sneaking around with the others on their way over so I followed them to see what you guys were up to.
We all turned our attention towards Miia as she began to sweat nervously while rubbing the back of her head all with a guilty smile.
Miia: Oops, I guess I wasn't as sneaky as I thought. ( muttering ) I knew we should've used cardboard boxes to hide in.
Kokoa: So what are you guys doing and why do you need me?
After I reluctantly turned the board over a second time I told Kokoa everything. At first she wasn't particularly happy that I included her in my plans without asking her for her opinion in the first place. She was a little upset with me but in the end she decided to help out while we got everything ready.
Kokoa: Just so we're clear, all I have to do is distract him for a few hours and nothing more. Right?
Shuna: Of course, once we're done we'll send someone over to find you and we'll take over from there.
Kokoa: ( sigh ) Alright, but what exactly should we we do? We aren't allowed to leave the barrier surrounding the school unless of an emergency.
That was true, aside from school trips we didn't really leave the school grounds. Fortunately for us we did have a new addition on campus that would take care of that little obstacle perfectly.
Kurumu: Why don't you take Kazuto to show you around Preternatural Street?
Kokoa: Preternatural Street? What's that?
Moka: It's a shopping district that was added during our last break from school. After the last school year ended while everyone was back home the headmaster added it to the school grounds as a way for students and staff to enjoy themselves without having to worry about breaking the rules about leaving the safety of the barrier.
Framea: Preternatural Street has plenty of shops, restaurants, and other fun things to do on campus. I'm sure Kazuto would be happy to show you around.
Kokoa: ( sigh ) Alright, I guess it does sound kind of fun.
Yukari: Great, and if you want you can join us afterwards for the party.
Rubi: It's only fair seeing as how you'd be doing us a huge favor by keeping Kazuto busy.
Kokoa: As if, why would I want to waste my time at a party for your little boy toy where all of you are going to act all lovey dovey with him? I'll help with distracting him but after that you can count me out.
That's too bad, I was really hoping that Kokoa would stay for the party. I know that it was mostly for Kazuto since it's his birthday but I was trying to make it fun for everyone who would attend. Just as Kokoa was about to reach the door to leave Kurumu walked up to her and put her hand on her shoulder.
Kurumu: ( smirk ) There's going to be cake at the party.
Kokoa: Tch. ( muttering ) What kind?
I guess Kokoa would stay after all. It took about an hour but we settled on a few solid ideas. We agreed to have Kokoa meet with Kazuto the day before the party to ask him to show her Preternatural Street the following day and while the two of them were busy the rest of us would decorate the club room for the party. Since we had several days to get ready it also gave us time for us to prepare Kazuto's presents, including the ones that some of us wanted to give him as a group.
Moka: Let's give Kazuto the best party ever!
Girls: Yeah!
Kokoa: ( This better not be a waste of my time. )
( Timeskip- 10 days later )
( Kokoa's pov )
I can't believe I'm doing this. I know I promised my big sister that I would try and get along with her friends and that other version of herself but sometimes they made it really difficult with how they act. Whatever, as long as I get cake out of this I guess it isn't a total waste of my time. Right now I was busy getting dressed in my uniform so I would meet up with Kazuto, yesterday he agreed to meet with me in front of his dormitory so that he could show me around Preternatural Street. I looked at myself in the mirror to ensure that I looked my best, just because I agreed to this dumb idea didn't mean I wanted to look sloppy and for his sake he better have dressed appropriately for today.
Kokoa: That idiot better not believe that this is some sort of date. If he does I'll just spill the beans on what the girls are doing and they can deal with it themselves.
Ko: Are you sure that's a good idea Ms.Kokoa? I thought you wanted to be friends with them? You even wanted to ask to join their club when they asked you to help out.
Kokoa: Quiet! I don't need to hear that from you right now! Let's just focus on getting this over with before I change my mind.
I then started making my way towards the boys dormitory with Ko flying close by, it wasn't long after when I found Kazuto waiting for me outside like he promised. He was wearing a lot of black today which mainly consisted of a long sleeved shirt, jeans and sneakers. Admittedly he did look kind of nice but there was no way I would ever tell him that.
Kokoa: Glad to see you didn't keep me waiting. For a minute there I thought I was going to waste my time waiting for you.
He then turned to face me as I could already see that dorky smile of his. Why the girls swoon whenever they see him like that is beyond me.
Kazuto: Hey there Kokoa, so you ready to check out Preternatural Street?
Kokoa: As ready as ever, I guess. Let's go, the sooner we get this over with the better.
Kazuto: ( nods ) Alright, let's go.
Thankfully it didn't take that long to get there and just as the girls said it was pretty much the size of a large shopping district that you would find out in the human world. There were different shops of all kinds and there were a lot of people enjoying their time here.
Kokoa: I can't believe that something like this was only added to the school recently.
Kazuto: I know, it's a nice change if you ask me. This is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of school. So where do you want to go first?
Before I could respond I noticed a large crowd gathered around one of the open areas. We made our way over and as we got closer we could clearly hear what was causing all the commotion. Apparently the karate club had set up a small competition where if someone managed to break more tombstones than they did the winner would win the combined amount of money added together from previous challengers. I didn't waste any time and began making my way over with Kazuto following closely behind, I then found one of the guys in charge and asked to go next but he rejected me.
Kokoa: What do you mean I can't go!
Karate Club Member: Sorry but this club is very serious, it's no place for a little girl.
Kokoa: What did you say punk!
Kazuto: Kokoa calm down, it's not that big of a deal.
Kokoa: Oh yeah, well if you really think that then why don't you go in my place?
Kazuto: Why? I don't have anything to prove to these guys.
Kokoa: Grr, whatever. I don't need your help anyway. Listen here bub I'm not leaving until you give me a shot at that prize money so sign me up!
Hopefully that was enough to let me get a shot at winning all that cash but then when I saw the entrance fee I silently backed down since I didn't bring any money with me. Kazuto then grabbed me by the shoulder and took me somewhere else, normally I would tell him off for putting his hands on me but I was too upset to really care. I didn't notice until we got there be he ended up taking me to a nearby ice cream shop where he bought each of us a cone. We didn't say anything for a few minutes as we just sat at one of the outside tables just quietly eating until he decided to break the silence.
Kazuto: You okay Kokoa?
Kokoa: Tch, what do you think? Of course I'm not okay, those jerks were totally looking down on me just because I'm younger than they are! Do they really think they have one over a vampire of my caliber? If they just let me have a chance I could show them just how strong I am!
Kazuto: You really want to prove yourself that badly huh?
Kokoa: Of course I do, we're monsters after all. If we don't show idiots like them who stronger than they'll just walk all over us.
Kazuto: But isn't it kind of pointless to do so against people like them? All that guy did was get under your skin and you just blew up right then and there.
Kokoa: But he called me a little girl, do you have any idea what that does to my pride? I can't let someone like that talk down about a vampire and get away with it! You just don't get it, you're just a slime after all so there's no point in trying to convince others that you're strong. Everyone knows your kind has no chance at being the strongest.
Maybe that was little harsh but I didn't care. What good was it being a powerful S-class monster if you didn't make others know just how powerful you were compared to everyone else? But even I have to admit that Kazuto was strong, it still baffles me that someone like him could hold his own against someone like me, my sister, even that Miyabi guy we met at the ice palace a while back.
Kazuto: Kokoa why is this so important to you?
Kokoa: Huh?
Kazuto: Why is it such a big deal that everyone acknowledges your strength? It's pretty obvious that you're strong already so why do you need to prove it if others question it?
Did he really just ask me that? Isn't it obvious why I need to show how much more powerful I am?
Kokoa: Why do you care? Just because I asked you to show me around that doesn't mean I owe you an explanation or anything!
Kazuto: Sorry Kokoa, I just thought that you wanted to be friends.
Did this guy seriously think that I wanted to be friends with him? I mean I guess he's not all that bad. He doesn't treat me like a little kid and he actually talks to me like an equal. The only other two people who acted that way towards me were Moka and her mother. Out of everyone in our family those two actually gave a damn about me, Kahlua would often treat me like a baby sister because she was older than me, father and Akua would often leave me on my own and not even spare a second thought about me, even my own biological mother cared for Kahlua far more than she ever did for me.
Kokoa: ( Does he really want to know? Or is he just trying to get on my good side just to try and seduce me like the others? )
Despite me thinking that deep down I actually knew that he was being genuine when he asked why this mattered so much to me. The other girls almost never shut up about him so I know that they hold him in high regard for a good reason. So I told him everything, that the reason why showing others that I'm not some helpless kid was because it was the only way to get others to take me seriously. Throughout my explanation he never once laughed at me or questioned me like I was lying. He just sat there taking every word and only asking me something occasionally. By the time I got to the end he continued to sit there all while quietly thinking everything over.
Kazuto: I see, so basically you see strength as a sign of approval. If others see you as weak or someone that can be pushed around you risk losing the respect from those around you.
Kokoa: Basically. Now do you get why I need to show those guys up?
Kazuto: I do, but let me ask you something. Are people like them really worth your energy?
Kokoa: What do you mean?
Kazuto: What I mean is are guys that scummy really worth your time? While you were arguing with that club member I looked over at the participants and I noticed that they were being cheated out of their money.
He told me that the tombstones they gave the competitors were much harder than normal while the ones they used were actually more brittle. In the end all those people were just wasting their money on a rigged game.
Kazuto: You need to choose your battles more carefully Kokoa. In life you'll find people like that everywhere and you need to decide if they're truly worth your time and energy.
I guess he did make a good point. Still even if the game was rigged I could easily show them up no problem. A cheap trick like that stands no chance against someone of my ability and power.
Kazuto: I think that's enough therapy for one day. I promised to show you around and that's exactly what I plan to do. Why don't I take you to the arcade, if you're really set on showing how tough you are let's see you try and beat me at Tekken.
As he got up I could see that smirk on his face he got whenever he got serious about something. I guess kicking his ass in a video game didn't sound so bad. If anything I could hold it over his head forever if I beat him.
Kokoa: ( shrug ) What do I have to lose, just don't expect me take it easy on you. And you better not cry when I win.
Kazuto: ( smirk ) You mean if you win.
Kokoa: ( smirk ) Oh is that a challenge?
Kazuto: What do you think?
Kokoa: I think you just made the biggest mistake of your life. Bring it on! And you better not cheat by using Devil Jin.
Kazuto: Don't you worry, I think Jin in his base form is more than enough to handle whatever character you pick.
Kokoa: We'll see about that!
Ko: I'll be rooting for you the whole time Mistress Kokoa!
Admittedly I did have fun, after a few rounds we moved on to try some other games like air hockey and a few racing games. Afterwards we went to some more shops and tried out some more food at a few places. Over time I began to forget about the stupid club and actually had a good time. After a while as we were walking we ran into one of those Kijin that knew Kazuto over at a small shop located near one end of the district.
Kurobe: Lord Kazuto, what brings you here today?
Kazuto: Hey Kurobe, I was just showing Kokoa around. And I thought I told you guys not to call me Lord Kazuto in public, it's a little embarrassing.
Kurobe: ( chuckle ) Sorry but we can't help it. After what you did for us and allowing us to be your subordinates it's to be expected.
Kokoa: Wait so these guys work for you?
Kazuto: Sort of.
Kokoa: But I thought that red haired guy was in charge of them?
Kurobe: Yes Benimaru is still the leader of our clan but Kazuto is our master and as such he's technically in a higher position of power. Especially since he has given us a name and thus made it official.
What did he mean he named them? Well if it was that important I could figure it out later. Kurobe then brought the two of us into his shop where we could see tons of metal accessories and tools across the store. He explained that this shop was in the business of making custom items and so far businesses was running smooth. Admittedly he did have some pretty impressive stuff in his shop so I figured browsing around wouldn't hurt.
Kurobe: Since you're here how about I make you something on the house.
Kazuto: You'd really do that?
Kurobe: Of course, it's Kokoa's first time here and I want to do something special for the young lady.
Kazuto: Well if you're sure I guess that's fine.
Kurobe: Excellent, now what can I make for you Kokoa?
I did hear from the others that his skills were legit, he was also responsible for making those weapons when we rescued that snow girl a while back. Maybe I can have him make something to make Ko stronger when he transforms into a weapon. I asked if he could do something like that and we started talking about ideas that could work. In the end we agreed that he could make a small anklet that Ko could wear and when he changed it would imbue the weapon form with an elemental property.
Kurobe: Sounds good, any idea what elemental properties you would like?
Kokoa: I don't know. Hey Kazuto what do you think?
Kazuto: Hmm, I think you would do well with fire, lightning, and probably some kind of space attribute.
Kokoa: Okay fire and lightning I get, but why would I need a space attribute for?
Kurobe: I think I understand what he means by that. Are you suggesting something along the lines of immobilization?
Kazuto: Yeah, either holding them down or making the enemy float in mid air with gravity manipulation. It would open them up for Kokoa to land a clean blow against them.
That... actually sounds like a good idea. It could really help if I was up against an evasive target and I could maybe use it to send my enemies flying if I applied it correctly. Kurobe then began getting the materials ready, Kazuto even provided some magisteel that he had on hand to speed up the process. It seemed to be going well until Kurobe realized that he was out of a special crystal that contained the space attribute needed for the accessory. When we asked about it he mentioned a cave filled with monsters located far away from here where there were certain magical creatures that formed the crystal inside their bodies.
Kazuto: Is it possible to get to this cave using a warp gate?
Kurobe: Yes I think so, the cave entrance is located near the gate so you should have no trouble getting there and back. If my memory serves me right you wouldn't have to travel far to find the creature in question and they aren't difficult to beat.
Kokoa: Then what are we waiting for, let's go and get those crystals already!
I practically dragged Kazuto out of that shop after we got the location as he took me to the nearby warp gate as we then transported to our destination.
Kazuto: This looks like the place, and there's the cave just as Kurobe said.
Kokoa: Great then let's get started. Also...
I then reached into my pocket and took out two small pieces of candy and gave one to him.
Kokoa: ( blush ) This is my way of saying... thanks. For helping me out with this and for hanging out with me.
Kazuto: Sure thing.
We then made our way inside as we ate the candy I brought out, luckily we didn't have to walk far to see several salamander type creatures about the size of small dogs running all over the place. They were pretty fast as they were running all over the walls and floor of the cave all while a pale green light glowed around their bodies.
Kokoa: These might be the creatures Kurobe was talking about.
Kazuto: Seems like it, let's take them down and collect our reward.
The next 15 minutes were spent attacking as many as possible, while Kazuto simply absorbed them I had Ko transform into a short sword and easily sliced them in half. During this time I felt incredible, almost as if my power was steadily increasing as time went on. By the end we managed to get a handful of the crystals necessary as we collected them and began to make our way back to the gate. A short jump later and then we returned to the gate near the academy but something felt different. Oddly enough there was a thin layer of smoke that appeared after we had returned and something didn't feel quite right.
Kokoa: ( What's wrong with me, why do I feel so out of place in my own body? )
I couldn't explain it but something felt off, almost as if I gained several inches all of a sudden without realizing it and I was just starting to notice it. I looked down and realized that I couldn't see my feet clearly since there was something blocking my view, something that wasn't there before.
Kokoa: WHAT THE HELL?!?!
( Timeskip brought to you by chibi Moka hanging party decorations. )
( Kazuto's pov )
That was easy, thankfully collecting those crystals wasn't too difficult and we made it back to the school grounds in no time at all. I honestly didn't expect Kokoa to have a good time today since she wasn't the most social person I know but I was pleasantly surprised to see her having fun. As the light from the warp gate died down we were surrounded in a cloud of white smoke. I then noticed something off about me, I wasn't sure what was going on and my train of thought was interrupted by Kokoa screaming her head off. I turned towards her to see what was going on only to be surprised by what was happening in front of me.
Kazuto: Kokoa, is that you?!
The young woman in front of me definitely looked like Kokoa. She had the same orange hair worn in the same style only it was much longer than usual. Her face was more mature and quite beautiful, and she was wearing the same uniform she always wore. The problem was that her figure was much more feminine and her uniform was a bit too small since I could see her panties easily and her shirt made her breasts look huge, it also didn't help that she was also groping herself all while staring at her own breasts.
Kokoa: W-W-When did I get boobs?! They're humongous!
It sounded like Kokoa, but her voice definitely sounded a bit older, if anything she seemed to have aged to either 18 or maybe even 20 years old.
Kazuto: Kokoa is that really you?
Kokoa: Duh of course it's me, what kind of question is-... holy crap when did you get hot?!
Kazuto: ( What is she talking about? Great Sage please change the perspective of Magic Sense so I can look at myself. )
Great Sage: Changing perspective now.
A second later and I saw what Kokoa was talking about. I looked older, almost like I was in my mid twenties at most. I was a bit more muscular and my face was slightly more rugged kind of like my dad. I also noticed that my voice sounded deeper as well.
Kazuto: What happened to me? What happened to us?
Kokoa: How should I know? You're supposed to be the smart one so fix this already!
Kazuto: How can I fix something if I don't know what caused this in the first place?
Ko: He's right Mistress Kokoa. Just try and stay calm whee.
Kokoa: Just fix it or else I'll kick your sorry ass until you do! You hear me!
Her eyes practically glowed red hot as her aura began to intensify with every passing second.
Ko: ( scared ) I'd better do as she says, otherwise you might want to start running for your life!
Rather than arguing with her I decided to just take her to Kurobe and try to figure it out on the way. We didn't speak the whole way through the trip and we did our best to avoid the stares and whispers of everyone around us. It seemed that no one recognized us and thought the two of us were a couple. Some of the guys kept their eyes glued towards Kokoa as she did her best to hold her skirt down so her underwear wouldn't show as much, a task that proved difficult since she was much taller and the skirt was too short which allowed for more than enough generous instances of seeing the pink fabric. Meanwhile the girls kept ogling me which made me very self conscious, I could hear them making comments about my appearance as well as what they wanted to do to me, or me to do to them and their friends at the same time.
Kokoa: ( muttering ) This is so embarrassing. How much longer until we reach the shop?
Kazuto: ( muttering ) We're not that far, just tough it out for a few more seconds and we'll be in the clear.
Finally we made it back and Kurobe was not expecting to see us in our current state. After giving him the crystals we collected we tried figuring out what happened to us but we couldn't come up with anything at the time. During our discussion Kokoa actually snuck away as the two of us kept trying to figure out what exactly happened.
( Kokoa's pov )
Ko: Kokoa are you sure this is a good idea?
Kokoa: Of course it is, ever since I changed I've been feeling stronger than ever before. Now I can prove to those jerks from earlier that no one can talk down to a vampire and get away with it.
It wasn't long until I found those guys from earlier and their little competition was still going. Judging by the expressions on the competitors it looks like they all failed at beating the record. I then turned my attention to the table where the box full of cash was simply overflowing. This was going to be far too easy.
Kokoa: ( smirk ) Let me take on your challenge, but I'll pay the entrance fee later.
Just as the guy was about to argue with me he suddenly stopped as he and every other guy here got a good look at me. Their faces immediately turned red just by looking at me as I stepped up to a pile of tombstones. Currently the record seemed to be set at 10 broken in a single move so I grabbed several more and stacked them together until they reached about half my height, I could've gone for more but I didn't want to humiliate anyone too badly and decided to take it easy. I had Ko transform into a set of bladed brass knuckles as I took a deep breath to focus my power. I brought my fist down and in a single strike I not only broke more stones than they did but I also broke part of the stage we were standing on.
Referee: 13 stones, it's a new record!
Kokoa: That was easy, looks like I won't need to pay that fee after all.
I then went over to the table and collected my winnings as I walked away while the guys cheered for me. Once I was out of sight I couldn't help but jump for joy and what I accomplished.
Kokoa: That was so awesome! Did you see that Ko, those guys were totally blown away by my power! Not only that but they think I'm totally hot!
Ko: You never cease to amaze Mistress Kokoa. But are you sure you should be showing off?
Kokoa: What's wrong with you all of a sudden? Aren't you happy that I showed those idiots just how strong I am?
Ko: Of course I am, but what if something bad happens? We still don't know what caused you and Kazuto to grow up all of a sudden, there might be some unintended consequences whee.
Before we could continue arguing that guy who rejected me earlier and his buddy came over to me and asked if I wanted to join their club. I could even hear them whispering to each other about them trying to get their disgusting hands on me if we were to spar with one another and claim it was an " accident ".
Kokoa: Unbelievable, when I was smaller you couldn't even be bothered to give me the time of day. Now that I'm suddenly older you decide to actually give me some attention?
Karate Club Member: Huh?
Kokoa: No thanks. You guys are way too wimpy for me.
I guess that was too much for them to handle, soon enough I was surrounded by more of their friends. I knew what they were up to so I set the box with my winnings down and took a stance to prepare for battle, I could see them lusting after me, it was if they were undressing me with their eyes so I dealt with them easily. Whether it was one by one or as a group these sorry excuses for monsters had no chance at beating me. My reactions were so fast that they seemed to be frozen in place as I beat them before they realized what happened.
Kokoa: ( This is incredible, I've never had this much power before. Maybe with this power I might be able to fight Moka on equal footing. )
Only one guy left, and it was that same jerk who thought nothing of me. I would make sure he suffered for the humiliation he put me through earlier today. Just as I was getting in tune with my new strength I suddenly found myself feeling incredibly weak. I blinked and the next thing I knew I was surrounded by that same white smoke cloud from before and when it disappeared everyone was much taller than I was.
Kokoa: Hey what's the big idea, why's everyone bigger all of a sudden? And what happened to my voice?
Kazuto: What are you doing Kokoa?
( Kazuto's pov )
Kokoa: Kazuto what are you doing here? And why do you look like a little kid?
Kazuto: I came to get you because you ran off. And why are these guys knocked out?
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I found Kokoa, but I definitely wasn't expecting her to be surrounded by several karate club members knocked down around her and Kokoa having to hold up her clothes to prevent her underwear from showing since she seems to have shrunk into a little kid like me.
Kazuto: Kokoa don't tell me that you actually went back to those karate guys from earlier to try and win that money?
Kokoa: So what if I did, those guys had it coming and you know it! Besides it was so easy that I walked away with all that money no problem. In fact I-... hey get back here with my money!
Looks like one of those guys managed to regain consciousness and took the money and ran off with his buddy right behind him as they left the rest of their club mates in the dust.
Kazuto: Come on Kokoa, we need to get back to the others. Maybe Yukari or Rubi can help us.
It took some convincing but eventually she relented and followed me back to campus. We needed to be stealthy since we didn't want anyone to spot us as we were, I tried using Shadow Movement to get us there faster and to avoid having anyone see us but for some reason it wasn't working properly.
Kazuto: ( Is it possible the change is affecting my powers? If that's the case then hopefully we don't run into any more trouble today. )
On the way we ran into Rubi who was looking for us as she lead us to the club room after getting over her initial shock at seeing us so young. Once we arrived at the club room we found all the girls inside decorating it with streamers and balloons. When they saw us they went through several different emotions, first came shock from seeing the two of us as little kids followed by lots of smothering and being clingy for the same reason.
Kurumu: You two are so cute! Especially you Kazuto!
Kazuto: Kurumu please cut it out!
Kurumu: Sorry but I can't help it, you two are so cute I can't stand it!
Shuna: So what exactly happened to the two of you?
Kokoa: How should we know?! All I know is that I don't want to be stuck in this tiny body for the rest of my life!
Framea: But how did this even happen?
Kazuto: I think I might have an idea, Kokoa do you remember those candies you shared with me earlier?
Kokoa: Yeah what about them?
Kokoa: Where did you get them?
Kokoa: I got them from Yukari, she had a bowl of them on the top shelf in her room and she said I could have some when she tutored me a few days ago.
Yukari: Hold on, did you say you got them from the top shelf?
Kokoa: Yeah. Why?
Yukari: Kokoa those weren't candies, those were my experimental gro-gro drops!
Miia: Gro-gro drops?
Yukari: Basically they were designed to amplify the power of the person who ingests them and as a result it turns their body into that of an adult to better handle the increased power. Although I wasn't expecting the backlash to change you into a little kid and mess with your powers as a result.
Mizore: Looks like your experiment still needs some work.
Kazuto: I guess that explains why I can't change my appearance to look like my normal self right now.
Yukari then pulled out her notes as Rubi studied them. According to her since the candies naturally augmented our own powers we should revert back to normal within several hours at most. Until then all we could do was just suck it up and stay like this until the effects wore off.
Moka: At least it isn't permanent. Until you two get back to normal we should probably find some new clothes for the both of you. You wouldn't want anyone to see you in your underwear by accident.
Kazuto: Sounds like a plan.
Kokoa: Fine.
I wasn't sure why but for some reason on the way over to the sewing club I got the sneaking suspicion that I would regret what was about to happen. Once we made to the club room we got permission to use some of the clothes they had until things went back to normal. Moka handed both of us some clothes as we each went to a separate part of the room to get changed, however when I noticed what Moka had picked out for me I had second thoughts.
Kazuto: Moka I am not wearing this!
Moka: But Kazuto I think you would look super cute in that outfit. Please put it on for me!
Already I could tell she was pleading and even if I wasn't looking I knew she would give me the puppy dog eyes until I gave in. In the end I put on the outfit as both Kokoa and I stood in front of the mirror rather upset at what we were forced to wear.
Kazuto: ( grumbling ) This is so humiliating.
Kokoa: What do we look like a bunch of preschoolers?!
Yep, Moka thought it was a good idea to give us a preschool uniform to wear since we did look to be about the proper age, even though analysis suggests that we were closer to maybe 4 or 5 years old physically.
Moka: But you two look so cute like that.
Kokoa: It may fit our bodies but not our dignity!
Rubi: Well in that case how about you try this on Kokoa?
Shuna: Senpai please put on this outfit!
Oh great this is exactly what we needed, an impromptu fashion show during a crisis. Kokoa changed outfits and now she resembled Arale from the Dr. Slump manga while I looked like a bug catcher from Pokémon, I even had an oversized butterfly net and a container for my bugs.
Kokoa: Oh great this is much better. What am I supposed to do now? Should I run around with my arms stretched out and go " Kiiiiiiiiin "?
Kazuto: Yeah and while we're at it I can go and catch myself some bug pokemon and try to be the very best like no one ever was.
Kurumu: In that case try this on instead Kokoa.
Shion: Kazuto I think this outfit is perfect for you!
The next pair of outfits was even more embarrassing with Kokoa dressing up as a baby complete with a bib, rattle and even a high chair. As for me I got stuck in a navy officer's uniform.
Kokoa: Why am I dressed like a baby!
Kurumu: Aww you look adorable. It hits you right in the maternal instincts doesn't it.
Kazuto: You will never speak of this to anyone.
Shion: But Kazuto it really suits you.
Mizore and Miia were next. Mizore chose a bear costume for Kokoa and gave her a keyboard so she could be our club mascot.
Kokoa: Seriously I have to be a mascot for you clowns?
Miia couldn't help but dress me up as a Kamen Rider, admittedly this one was the least embarrassing for me to wear so far.
Miia: Please do the pose Kazuto!
Kazuto: ( sigh ) Alright. Henshin!
After what felt like an eternity we decided on some outfits that we could at least tolerate for the day. Kokoa wound up in a maid outfit while I got stuck in clothes that resembled Link's outfit from the Legend of Zelda, I even had a prop sword and shield strapped to my back.
( Quick note: In honor of the release of Tears of the Kingdom I thought this was appropriate. You're also free to imagine any of Link's iconic outfits for this. Enjoy. )
Kurumu: Oh my gosh, is this what it'll be like when Kazuto and I have kids!
Framea: You both look so adorable, please let me take a few pictures.
Mizore: You know Kokoa if this doesn't wear off you can come live with Kazuto and me when we get married. We can raise you as our own daughter.
Kurumu: Hands off, Kokoa is mine and Kazuto's daughter!
Mizore: Nope. She's mine and Kazuto's.
Kokoa: Let me go you twits!
While that was going on I just sat at my desk with my head down as Moka patted my head in an attempt to calm me down.
Kazuto: Hopefully this wears off sooner rather than later.
Moka: Don't worry if Rubi says it will wear off on its own than all you need to do is be patient. Who knows maybe by tomorrow morning you'll be back to your old self.
Kazuto: ( sigh ) I really hope so.
Moka: Still I have to admit that you look really adorable, I kind of wish I got turned back into a kid too. It would be just like old times, just you and me.
I had to admit that did sound rather nice, if only our lives could be as simple as they were back then.
Kazuto: By the way what's up with the decorations? I didn't bother asking earlier but now I'm curious.
Suphia: Wait, did you seriously forget what day it is today?
Kokoa: For crying out loud it's your birthday you nitwit!
Thinking back on it they were right, I can't believe I actually forgot my own birthday. Well if anything I can at least say that it's been memorable. Too bad for Kokoa that she had to deal with the girls babying her since she was stuck in a younger body, unfortunately she finally had enough as she stormed out with Ko flying after her and refused to come back as we called out to her.
Kurumu: What's her problem? We were just having a little fun.
Kazuto: You seriously don't see it?
Mizore: See what exactly?
I then went on to explain what happened to Kokoa earlier today. How having everyone look down on her because of her new appearance made her believe that she wasn't worth being respected. How appearing strong was really important to her because in her eyes she saw strength and approval as the same thing. The girls started feeling guilty seeing as how they may have taken their teasing a bit too far. Moka felt especially bad about it since she vaguely remembered what growing up was like in her home before she had her powers suppressed. We then took the initiative and began searching for her when Ko came flying back to tell us that those guys from the karate club had ambushed Kokoa and were about to challenge her to a fight even though she was tiny.
Kazuto: Those jerks are really planning to fight a little kid?
Ko: Yeah, apparently when Kokoa rejected their offer to join their club and then beat them up they were really mad. They don't care if she's small, they're dead serious on fighting her no matter what! Emphasis on DEAD!
Kazuto: How many are there?
Ko: Probably about 25 guys last time I checked! Maybe more!
This was bad, I had Ko guide me as I contacted the girls to meet us in the woods where the fight was happening.
Kazuto: ( Even if my powers are messed up I can't let these guys hurt Kokoa! )
When we finally got there I could see one of the guys holding Kokoa by her legs as the skirt of her outfit was torn. His hands had changed into oversized claws as he had a sick smile plastered on his face. Aside from one other guy the others didn't look like members of the same club, in fact they didn't really look like students of the academy either.
Kazuto: Let her go!
I enhanced myself with whatever power I had available as I rushed in and kicked the guy holding Kokoa in the face as he dropped her while I caught her and backed away from them as much as possible.
Karate Club Member: Look at this boys, seems the little brat has her own personal hero. Let's show them what happens when you mess with the big kids!
They all charged at me at once, I decided to rush in to meet them head on as I set Kokoa down and took out my prop sword and shield and fought back. Using my magic to enhance my equipment I was able to defend myself easily enough as I blocked punches and kicks with my shield as my sword cut through hordes of them one after the other.
Kazuto: ( It's just like the game, block incoming attacks and hit them when their wide open! )
I then charged my power into my sword as they all jumped me at once as I released the power in a spin while shouting loudly in defiance.
Kazuto: Spin Attack!
That last move was enough to cause some injuries but these guys were very resilient as they got back up even though they were beat up pretty decently.
Karate Club Member: Not bad kid, but don't think that we'll take it easy on you just because of a few lucky hits.
Even though we were surrounded from all sides I wasn't worried, after all I knew that I didn't come here to help Kokoa all by myself. Suddenly one of the guys fell over as he had two tarot cards sticking out from his forehead. Another guy was then electrocuted as he joined his buddy all while collapsing to the ground and twitching erratically.
Kazuto: Nice timing you two.
Yukari: What can we say, we live to please.
Something was off about her voice, when the crowd parted we got a good look at both Yukari and Suphia as they looked older, and admittedly very attractive. I did my best not to ogle at their new bodies since they were very curvy in all the right places.
Kokoa: No way, you guys ate the candy too?!
Kazuto: I gotta admit I kind of saw that coming.
Karate Club Member: What's this, you guys too chicken to take us on by yourself that you called for backup?
Kazuto: That's rich coming from you. You guys seriously needed this many people to gang up on a little kid? I actually feel kind of sorry for you.
Karate Club Member: What was that you little twerp? Guess you wanna die first, well fine by me!
Before the fighting resumed a familiar puff of smoke appeared and once it wore off both Yukari and Suphia had shrunk into little kids. Surprisingly enough their clothes also shrunk to better fit their size too, really wished the same happened for me and Kokoa though.
Kazuto: What happened?
Yukari: 12 minutes and 13 seconds, that's how long the effects of the candy last before the backlash changes you into a kid.
Suphia: Well it was fun while it lasted, hope you enjoyed the show Kazuto. Now let's get back to wiping the floor with these creeps!
Karate Club Member: What chance do a few little squirts have against us? We're bigger, stronger and better in every way!
Suddenly a few more members of their group fell with various injuries covering their bodies.
Moka: I hope this makes us even now Kokoa.
Kurumu: I gotta admit I'm actually really happy with this idea of yours Moka.
Mizore: Kazuto was right, we shouldn't be treating Kokoa like a little kid.
Shion: Because not only is she one of our friends.
Miia: We're also all in the same boat as each other.
Shuna/Framea: Because we're all little kids now!
At least half of these guys had been dealt with as the rest of the girls finally arrived as each of them had reverted back into a child.
Kokoa: No way, you all ate them? Why?
Rubi: Isn't it obvious? We did this because we wanted to show you that we understand what you're going through.
Framea: We're not going to keep treating you like a kid anymore. So it's perfectly fine to rely on us when you need it.
Moka: This is what we do Kokoa, so have a little faith in us alright.
Karate Club Member: Tch, I don't care how many of you there are. Take these kids down but leave the little guy for me to deal with!
Kazuto: Let's show them what happens when you mess with us ladies! Charge!
Girls: Yeah!!!
Raising my sword high I lead the girls into a glorious battle, and by glorious I mean that it was embarrassing that a bunch of high schoolers were totally owned by a bunch of elementary kids. Due to our size they had a much more difficult time landing a hit on us because they weren't picking on someone their own size. With each of the girls reverting to their monster forms they were able to surprise our opponents easily.
Miia would use her long tail to trip up a few guys or whip them hard enough to flip them over. Framea used her rabbit speed and agility to evade hits while leading them into each other to collide with one another. The others decided to team up either using magic/elemental attacks or simply using brute strength. Kokoa would often bash one guy with her giant hammer before tossing it to Moka who followed up by doing the same even though she would apologize shortly afterwards.
Moka: ( bowing ) I'm sorry.
Kokoa: Knock it off sis, these guys are the enemy remember!
By the time the battle ended we were victorious with hardly any casualties, although we did have a run in with the captain of the karate team. He had heard that some of his members were running a scam and he went to investigate, after explaining the situation to him he promised that he would not only return the money that his club mate collected but he would also discipline him and his buddies personally. Needless to say the situation was handled and things ended there.
We began to make our way back to the club room to enjoy the party the girls planned for me, the decorations had been set up and the food and snacks were already in place so all that was left was for us to have a good time. For the rest of the day we just let ourselves have fun, it was actually really nice to just act like kids for a single day and play freely. We even decided to turn the party into a sleepover as well and decided to sleep that night in the club room as we watched some movies and built a massive pillow fort. All in all I can safely say we had a great time, even Kokoa could be seen smiling and getting along with Moka like sisters should.
The next day when we woke up we were back to normal and after cleaning up the girls told me that they had a present to give me that they couldn't before because of everything that happened. I was told to meet them in the auditorium in about 2 hours so they could get my last gift ready. During that time I went back to my dorm so I could shower and change into some fresh clothes and just hung out until it was time for me to make my way over. Once it was time I made my way to the auditorium and inside I saw that it was completely dark except for a single light shining above a chair in the middle of the floor with a note neatly folded on the seat.
I picked up the note and opened it and inside it read:
" Sit back and enjoy the show. "
I did as instructed as I looked to the stage where spotlights began to shine as a silhouette of five figures standing behind the curtains were posing. Music began to play as the curtains began to rise all while the figures were revealed to be Moka, Kurumu, Yukari, Mizore and Rubi all dressed as pop idols.
( insert Rosario Vampire opening 2 Discotheque by Nana Mizuki )
This was not what I was expecting for my gift but that didn't mean I didn't enjoy it. Throughout the performance I was completely mesmerized by their movements and how well they were singing. I couldn't take my eyes off the stage as they each poured their heart out to make this performance the best they could make it. Their routine was the perfect combination of upbeat and sensual and the music did an amazing job of complimenting the entire show. As the song came to a close I stood up and cheered for the girls as they bowed ending their dance number.
Kazuto: That was awesome girls!
Moka: Did you like it Kazuto?
Kazuto: Like it? I loved it, this was the best gift you girls could ever give me.
Yukari: We're glad you think so, we worked really hard to make this special for you sweetheart.
As the girls came over to me for a group hug we heard more music play as another set of spotlights shined on stage with a new set of silhouettes behind the curtain.
Kazuto: There's more?
Kurumu: No, we only had one performance planned for you.
Rubi: What's going on?
Once more the curtains began to rise and this time the figures were Miia, Shion, Shuna, Framea and Suphia dressed in their own idol outfits only theirs was themed to resemble wedding dresses that were a bit too skimpy with each of them wearing a veil.
Mizore: You've got to be kidding me, they stole our idea.
I knew the girls were getting a bit jealous since I could feel them glaring as well as their power slowly rising but I was to distracted by what was happening on stage to really do anything about it.
Miia: ( wink ) Enjoy the show Darling.
( insert Monster Musume opening Saikousoku Fall in Love. )
Their moves were definitely more free in comparison to the last performance but it was no less spectacular. Each of the girls showed their best moves as they incorporated more lighting effects in their dance and the results of their practice paid off. What really surprised me was that during their dance they each transformed into their monster form and yet it did nothing to impede their performance, if anything it made it better as a result. In the end I applauded them on a show well performed but I then felt the pressure the girls were giving off increase even further.
Miia: What did you think Kazuto? Hope you enjoyed the show Darling.
Kurumu: Hey what's the big idea, you guys totally stole our idea!
Suphia: ( smirk ) That's funny, I don't remember anyone saying that we couldn't do our own performance for our boyfriend. Besides I don't see Kazuto complaining, especially when he couldn't take his eyes off our bodies.
Shuna: I also worked really hard on everyone's outfits for today and I didn't want it to go to waste.
Shion: So Kazuto who's performance did you like the best? Oh and you can't say you liked both equally.
Now the stares were all aimed at me. This was the worst possible scenario I could be in. Fortunately I have prepared myself for this scenario for months in advance. It was time to put all that training and preparation to the ultimate test, my all or nothing gambit. I took a deep breath as I stood tall and looked at the girls straight in the eyes as they waited in anticipation for my answer and...
Kazuto: RUN AWAY!!!
Yep, the patented Joestar secret technique. It's never failed them before and I was certain it wouldn't fail me now. The girls took a few seconds to respond to my sudden action as they all grew angry that I avoided the question and responded accordingly.
Girls: GET HIM!!!
As I ran away from the auditorium the girls were hot on my heels as they were hell bent on getting a straight answer from me on who had the better performance.
Suphia: Get back here Kazuto! You aren't a Joestar so don't think their secret technique can keep you away from us!
Miia: We're going to catch you one way or another!
Rubi: And when we do we expect an answer out of you got that!
Girls: NO MERCY!!!
As I kept running away Kokoa was off in the distance watching us all while shaking her head.
Kokoa: Those idiots don't know when to quit huh?
Ko: True. But they look like their having fun whee.
Kokoa: Maybe. Let's head back to the dorm, I managed to sneak away some extra slices of cake from yesterday's party.
Ko: Right away Ms. Kokoa! Whee!
