Chapter 7: Lamentations of a teenage witch part I

Yokai Academy-Girl's Dormitory-Two weeks later

"ICHIGO!"

Moka woke up with her eyes wide open and she couldn't for the life of her catch her breath as she struggled to gasp for some air. She looked down at her sweat drenched body and noticed the sheets were actually soaked through to her bed. The silver haired Vampire ran her hands on her temples and massaged them and was surprised that she felt tears running down her cheeks. She's been having that bizarre dream/nightmare for the last few days now and it was driving her nuts! The only vague thing she could remember was that Kurosaki was falling and that was it. How or why it happened she was still trying to figure the details out herself but the one impression that it did left her was that she felt so helpless to do anything about it! Even more mysterious was the fact that she couldn't seem to remember what happened after Ichigo fell off the roof. Obviously the strawberry was fine considering that she sees him in school everyday and talks to him at lunch time - well the last time he went to class anyway. Though she couldn't help but wonder why he was so...distant for some reason. Then Moka found herself blushing and realized that she dreaming about Kurosaki of all people! How embarrassing but she couldn't help but smile.

Then the silver haired girl sighed. She needed to change the sheets and she had to take a quick shower to get ready for school. Moka then got up wearing nothing but her underwear and quickly changed the covers on her bed. She then entered the bathroom, took her time to soak in the warm water which was especially built for her so that special herbs will be mixed in automatically which was rather convenient really. The Vampire's thoughts then returned to the mysterious dream and she still couldn't figure out why she was drawing a blank on what happened after Ichigo fell. Not dwelling on it too much, she soaked in for an extra 5 minutes, taking her time to scrub her lusciously curvaceous body with a sponge soaked in mildly scented body wash. Having finished her shower, she wrapped herself and her hair in a big towel while drying herself. She then brushed her teeth and surprisingly she began to put on a little bit of makeup. Moka never really worn any of the stuff before but she found herself putting it on regardless and only because Ichigo complimented her when she had some on a few days back. She blushed, why is it she always feels so weak when it comes to that nuisance? But nonetheless, it was a victory in the war for his affections so who was she to argue with the results right? When she was done, she got out the bathroom and went to her closet to get her uniform.

Moka smiled for some reason as she remembered her silly game to make that idiot jealous and worn the sexy leather version of the Academy uniform. It was actually fun teasing Kurosaki and was tempted to wear it again. What bothered her though was she couldn't remember where she put it. Oh well, she figures she can have it tailor made if she had the urge to wear that scandalous outfit again. As she debated what pair of underwear she should wear today, she noticed her calendar stuck on her mirror with a date circled. Oh yes, she remembered now! Today was the day the school is suppose to post the rankings after taking the exams last week. Moka is supremely confident that she did very well but she was quite anxious what rank she got nonetheless. Then her thoughts wondered how the idiot fared but she shook her head as she blushed and quickly dressed, got some pop tarts for breakfast, and left for school.

Later that day...

As promised the freshmen midterm exam results were posted outside where a mob of students were hovering by the billboards nervously and dreading the results. Moka was among them fretting but she was confident that she did very well having studied for the exams thoroughly. She anxiously looked for her name and immediately looked at the top twenty. One by one she read the names from twenty counting down to one. Then when she went to last 10 names, she skimmed quickly through them. She found her name and apparently she was pleased that she ranked 7th this year. It could have been better had she not crammed and studied at the last minute but she was a typical student to the core! Having found her query she didn't quite pay attention to the rest of the names...

"Wow, it says that Moka-san is 7th!"

"Yeah not only is she the most beautiful girl in school but she's smart too!"

"She is so perfect!"

"Yup the number 1 ideal girl!"

Moka was even more pleased with the way the vermin complimented and congratulated the silver haired girl on her 7th ranking. Yes, indeed she was beautiful for she was a Vampire after all. And with the dignity and grace that her high upbringing has taught her, she accepted their praise and adulation with humility. She's sure that her parents will give her due as she has been consistently making good grades since kindergarten. Of course her father being the high maintenance dad that he is would want to push her farther and to do better next time.

"You are special even amongst your sisters Moka-chan!" her father would say. "And as such expectations of you are high and therefore you must do your best to reach your full potential as a Vampire Elite!"

Then he would rave about how doing well in school would land her a decent husband and other such rubbish. The young Vampire has a lot on her plate already considering that she may or may not have a thing for a certain annoying strawberry and the fact that Okaasan - with her meddling - has taken upon herself to set Moka up with mystery fiance that she is dreading to meet. Actually if the silver haired girl had her way, she'd give her "fiance" a piece of her mind and then plant the sole of her foot to his face. But before all that, she would convince him - and she can be very persistent if she wanted - to break the contract that was signed even before she was born so she could do as she pleased! Hearing someone approach, Moka saw Ichigo coming to her, no doubt trying to see his score. The two of them stopped and the Vampire gave the strawberry a hug to his embarrassment...

"Yo...what's up?"

"Where were you at this morning?" Moka demanded.

"Akashiya, it's too fricking early to argue with you okay." Ichigo said yawning. Then he chuckled saying. "I'll make it up to you later if you still want your daily dose of bickering!"

"Shut up, Vampires do not like to argue!"

"Well gee, I dunno..." Ichigo said blandly. "I think we're in the cusp of an argument now don't you?"

Then he looked at her and noticed something different for some reason. She stifled a blush as she tried to avoid his gaze. What on earth has gotten into him so suddenly that he would scrutinize her this hard? It was rather embarrassing and it made Moka fidget that she might have done some kind of mistake...

"Kami, what is he looking at?" Moka thought. "W-what!"

"You're wearing make-up again aren't you?"

"Y-yeah so?"

"I like it because it draws your natural beauty." Ichigo complimented. Then he jokingly said. "So who are you trying to impress this time?"

Moka blushed furiously...

"Baka, I'm not trying to impress anyone!" she quickly said. She punched him playfully on the shoulder.

"Me thinks the lady doth protests too much!"

"Why are you quoting Shakespeare to me you weirdo?" Moka said half lidded.

"Shut up, you know you like it!"

"Whatever..."

They both shared a laugh. Moka's relationship with Ichigo has improved even more so lately. They still had their daily arguments and quite frankly it's so ingrained in them by now that they bicker just for the shits and giggles of it. They are aware of it so much so that the strawberry jokes about it daily and she finds that she doesn't mind at all. Still it was a step forward the right direction as they slowly build their rather tenuous relationship brick by brick...

"So anyway, how did you do?" Ichigo asked.

"Got ranked 7th."

"Good job Akashiya. As expected of the school goddess!"

Moka blushed at the compliment.

"What is up with him lately..." Moka thought. "Why is he being so nice to me all of a sudden?"

Then she replied...

"Of course, so I guess you better grovel and worship me if want to do better!" Moka said joking. "So where did they rank you? Uh Kurosaki?"

Moka looked at the strawberry and wondered what in Kami's name is the idiot squinting at the boards for? Then she heard more of the annoying girls screaming and wondered what got their panties in a wad? Seriously, it's way too early for their crap...

"Hey Akashiya..." Ichigo called out. "Do you see what I see..."

"What are you talking...about?" Moka asked annoyed. "Eh!"

It didn't register at first but when her poor brain finally connected the dots her reaction was rather...extreme.

"EEEHHHHHHHHH!" she screamed while Ichigo covered his ears.

Moka stood beside him and quickly scanned the names above her. However, she had the shock of her life when she found that the one ranked above her...was Ichigo himself. The tick mark that was on her head earlier throbbed and got thicker. That was impossible, how could the strawberry outrank her. She turned to him and growled...

"How the hell are you ranked above me when I see you barely in class!" Moka said exasperated.

Indeed the last few days Ichigo has not been going to class lately. And even if he did manage to stay; he would mysteriously get up then run out the classroom and accompanied with a lame excuse that was too preposterous to be believed. Nekonome-sensei was way too soft on him really but since the strawberry was passing the tests and turning in homework on time, the homeroom teacher didn't have much to complain about and she was obviously turning a blind eye to his bad habits...

"Ah so I wasn't seeing things...wow that's cool I guess." Ichigo said. Then he looked at her and said blandly. "What's eating your Gilbert grape this time?"

A large knot marred the poor Vampire's forehead at his nonchalant behavior but mastered her annoyance...

"Nothing, still trying to figure out how you out rank me though..."

"Uh I studied?" Ichigo replied half lidded.

"I studied my ass! You barely go to class as it is. I hardly see you at lunch time nor the Newspaper Club...Moka said softly.

Then her eyes widened at the slip of her tongue and added.

"Not that I CARE or anything!" she said puffing her cheeks and looking away.

"Aww is that your poorly veiled excuse that you miss me?" Ichigo said grinning.

"Chi, hardly..." Moka replied sassily. "Don't flatter yourself too much or your ego might make your already swollen head burst!"

Nonetheless, Moka tried her best not to blush too obviously...

"Touche..."

"Hmph!"

Moka's temper flared even more as Ichigo's fan girls suddenly squealed in delight...

"Wow, Ichigo-kun is ranked number 6th!"

"Yeah, not only is he the handsomest boy in school, he's athletic, he's very nice and kind, and he's smart too!"

"Well, I think he's amazing!"

"I know right?"

"Ichigo-kun you're going to have to help me study sometime okay?"

"Oh I know right but I'd rather study that deliciously muscular body of his instead..."

"Yeah I agree..."

Moka then turned around and glared at them and all conversations suddenly seized and people suddenly went about their business. Then she scowled at the idiot beside him...

"You're very popular aren't you?" Moka asked her brow twitching.

"Nah" the strawberry said negatively. Then he asked innocently. "Now what possessed you to say such a preposterous thing Akashiya?"

Then in her most annoyingly squealing voice, Moka replied.

"Kyah! Why it's like Ichigo-sama! He's so amazingly handsome, athletic, and smart that I would absolutely eat him up and have my way with him!" she said mockingly. "Ichigo-sama please help me study next time but then again I'd rather study you naked instead!"

"Aww you're so cute when you're jealous Akashiya!"

"Ain't she though?"

"Oh hey Kurumu, Tsukune, how are you'll doing?" Ichigo asked.

"Good morning..."

"Good morning Ichigo and to you as well Moka-san!" Tsukune said to them.

To Moka's annoyance, the Succubus gave the strawberry a hug of affection and a kiss on both of his cheeks and which he kissed hers in return as a greeting, while Tsukune gave him a fist pump. The bluenette started that little trend ever since she declared that they were close enough friends to greet one another in such a manner. Moka however, resisted the change at least when it came to Ichigo. The Vampire gladly kissed the Succubus and gave Tsukune a hug but for some reason she couldn't make herself hug nor kiss the strawberry. Ichigo didn't seem to mind nor did it look like he didn't care otherwise. The silver haired beauty never gave a satisfying answer but she was indeed very annoyed and jealous of the bluenette because she had the audacity and the courage that the Vampire herself lacked. Her tune changed when Tamao-sempai adapted quickly through the custom and started greeting Ichigo in the same manner as the Succubus did. Not wanting to be left behind by her hated rival, she steeled herself to give the boy a hug at least and as time flew by their awkwardness and uncertainty vanished. Having averted her shyness - even if by necessity - Moka began to occasionally add a kiss or two while she was at it. The first time she boldly pecked the poor strawberry on the cheeks, he almost had a heart attack, a stroke, and an aneurism simultaneously! Needless to say he was flustered and deeply embarrassed all day in class which was rather cute if Moka thought about it...

As for Kurumu, that idea came about when she read that humans greeted friends by kissing them on the cheek. So in the spirit of "blending" in, kissing amongst nakama has become an acceptable form of greeting. Besides which, it was an excuse to get near the strawberry although she saves the more scandalous hellos for her Destined One! Tsukune didn't look like he was complaining...much! And the human custom of hugging and kissing spread through the school like wildfire. The Chairman apparently approved as he didn't put a stop to the new custom. As far as he's concern, it's one more step closer to blending with humanity and anything that further reaches that lofty goal was a good thing in his opinion.

"So how did you guys fare?" Ichigo asked curiously.

"180th..." Kurumu said depressed.

"Ranked 128th..." Tsukune said. Then he addressed the Vampire and said. "You're amazing Moka-san. You're going to have to tell me your study secrets someday."

Moka despite herself blushed...

They were all walking away towards their respective classes as the friends talked. Unknown to them a little girl with a witch's cape and pointy hat looked longingly at them. She wondered why those people were having fun and realized that Ichigo and Moka were in the group. Her name was Yukari Sendo and she was the number 1 ranked student in the whole freshmen class. The little witch was considered a genius in many circles and because of this, Yukari has skipped several grades and went directly to high school. However, although the work load didn't seem to be any different considering that all subjects are easy to her anyway, she finds that class seemed so boring as she waited for her more ordinary classmates to catch up. The little witch found herself reading ahead and actually asked the teacher to give her the workload for future lessons so she at least had something to do. In class, she would look out the window bored out of her gourd. Her mind swirling tempest of ideas and concepts that other people would be too slow to grasp nor understand in the slightest. Alas her self imposed isolation and her masterful grasp of the subjects didn't really endear her to her classmates.

For Yukari is a hybrid monster, a border being that neither humans nor her Yokai brethren accepts. It is this prejudice against her kind the little girl acts hostile towards people and monsters alike as she tends to retaliate whether someone ridicules or criticize her and it's usually to her face. Yukari unfortunately became a practical joker and with her mastery of her magic, she has become one of the best. Between phantom pans appearing out of nowhere and knocking her offenders silly to "accidents" that consists of tripping, buckets of water in the head, and flying stripped clothing, the young witch was considered the master of this dubious craft. Still, despite the fact that all the idiots who talked bad about her and treated her cruelly deserved what they reaped, Yukari didn't really do herself a favor since she has alienated her classmates. The little genius however, didn't care and she has fared well alone thus far. Who needed friends right?

That bad attitude changed when Akashiya Moka came into the picture. The entire school considered her to be a goddess and it shows. The Vampire was beautiful, popular, and intelligent amongst other things. She was an independent woman that exudes confidence and grace unlike other Yokai with a pride to match. And because of this fierce pride and the fear that imposes over the entire student body that Yukari felt that she couldn't touch her. Moka was in too high a perch and who would be able to glean such divinity up close? Still, the young witch admired the Vampire even though she knew that they were not in the same league. But that sentiment changed as well when Kurosaki Ichigo transferred into Yokai Academy so many moons ago.

Ichigo has done the impossible! Whereas no monster could have went toe to toe with a Vampire and hope to survive with their dignity intact but for some reason the strawberry did. His first day encounter with Moka has become a legend among the students and was recorded in the annals of the school's illustrious history. Not only did Ichigo confronted the Queen of the Academy head on but he did so with nary a fear in his demeanor which was thought to have been preposterous at the time. The stare down of dominance with neither of them backing down or flinching was whispered in the hallways of the school and become even more ridiculous and exaggerated with each retelling. Their infamous arguments on school grounds have been both intriguing and top class entertainment. Any student who actually missed one of their daily bickering sessions and was out of the loop when the two most popular students in school "slug" it out verbally was considered a "loser!" Was there any wonder why Moka and Ichigo's public tiffs has become akin to a rock concert? Ironically, the two of them had gotten along swimmingly despite having arguments everyday. Any other idiot who foolishly triggered a Vampire's wrath wouldn't get any mercy. The closest thing Moka physically "assaulting" Ichigo was when she punches him playfully in the arm as she reacted to his outrageous commentary or she literally falls in his arms and they end up sprawled in the ground in compromising positions because of the "accidents."

There were whispers amongst the student body that Ichigo and Moka did in fact had feelings for each other. It reflected on the way they interacted and any rocket scientist worth his salt would probably have the same conclusion. Considering that the silver haired beauty hasn't kicked the strawberry from here to the moon and the way they seem to be verbally fencing yet they seem to enjoy it. Yukari might be 11 years old but she can tell that the two of them were flirting and yet arguing at the same time. Did that make sense? Perhaps whatever game the two of them were playing were of course the only two people who knew the rules of engagement.

Regardless, she along the with every female in the Academy had a crush on Ichigo to a certain degree and many admired Moka for her beauty and other attributes they wished they had. Well let's rephrase that - half of them actually hate the Vampire's guts because she was taking up the strawberry's time and attention that is except for the little genius of course. Yukari could never hate Moka as her admiration and respect for the Vampire exceeds her petty jealousy over something inconsequential. Besides, now that she thought about it, the two of them would actually make a good couple that is if they can just stop bickering for a minute and look at the big picture for a moment. The little witch was sure that they indeed had a thing for each other, they're just too stubborn to admit it...

Yukari's reverie was shattered when someone said something to her...

"Congratulations for being number 1 again Yukari-san. It seems that you skipping a couple of grades weren't for nothing as it was nothing for a genius like you. But please don't think you're all high and mighty just because you did well on the exams. You're nothing more than a little brat and don't you forget it."

"Oh it's you again Class Representative."

The Class President then rudely pushed her and continued...

"And what's the idea with this outfit? You do realize that you're violating school rules right? I hate people who sticks out!"

"Kyaah! Stop it!"

"As the Class Rep your very existence is a pain in the ass." he said. "Because after all you're a witch right? How disgusting it makes me sick that I'm in the same grade as you!"

Yukari heard it all before. The mockery, the jokes, the looks of disgust on her fellow Yokai's faces. It was prejudice in the highest order and she has been dealing with it all her life until she learned to fight back that is. She might not be physically on par strength wise with other monsters but her intelligence and the mastery of her magic makes up for that little short coming. The school and her parents always preached tolerance and she tried her best to be reasonable and listen however, she thought that was a bunch of bull and hypocritical considering that very same tenets the Academy and her parents was trying to teach didn't reflect on the demeanor of the students nor did they treat her with respect. And all because she was of mixed descent, a witch. She didn't choose to be born this way and yet her fellow monsters treat her lower than dirt. Finally, when her pot has finally simmered to a boiling point and she could no longer tolerate their bigotry, she fought back like she is going to do right now. The little witch's eyes narrowed and with a but a little push from her magic, a big rock rose from the ground and hit her offender on the side of the head. Yukari laughed out loud...

"That's what you get and more than you deserved!"

"What the hell did you do to me!"

The Class Rep tried to lunge at the helpless and startled little girl. Yukari had no time to react and she closed her eyes as she knew that the pain would be coming. However, she heard the president grunt in pain and when she looked in between the gaps of her fingers, Yukari's eyes widened as she saw someone who had a shock full of orange hair punched the other boy and end up falling unceremoniously on the ground. The boy was furious got up and tried to confront the attacker when he gulped and met scowling brown eyes.

"Have no idea what happened but I'm not gonna tolerate you bullying a girl!" Ichigo said sternly. "I suggest you walk away...friend!"

Ichigo's scowl intensified as well as the weight of his spiritual pressure...

"Here's a little friendly advice; I'll listen to him if I were you!" Moka said ominously as she cracked her knuckles. "Now SCRAM!"

Their little audience gulped and started sweating bullets as if they were the ones being threatened with physical violence. Ichigo and Moka were a terrifying pair when they were working together. The Yoki aura that they exuded was staggering and staring the pair's fierce unflinching gazes would probably turn anybody's spine to fruit jelly. Considering that they argue all day, everyday, 24/7, it is quite surprising that they got along well enough to try and save somebody in trouble. Will wonders never seize?

Faced with a crowd full of people and going against the fiercest couple in the Academy, the President knew better than to go against such odds. He swore that he was going to get the witch for this and she will pay for his humiliation...

"You better remember this Yukari, let's go guys!"

Yukari couldn't help but stick her tongue out and droop an eyelid for good measure. Her two protectors notice this and their stern demeanor crumbled into fits of laughter which the little witch didn't quite understand what's so funny. Then their gaze met for a brief moment before Moka gave the strawberry a high five before the Vampire giggled girlishly again while Ichigo chuckled. Seriously what was so hilarious that they would dissolve into bouts of laughter all of a sudden?

"Did you see their faces Kurosaki?" Moka said giggling. "Those guys looks like they were gonna pee in their pants...tee hee hee."

"That's coz you stared at the poor guy too hard with those very intimidating but gorgeous eyes of yours!"

Moka blushed but she replied...

"No it's because you were giving them that smexy scowl..." she insisted playfully. Then added seductively. "Besides I like it when you're so...forceful!"

Seriously, Yukari wonders whether or not these were the same people who saved her a few seconds ago. Where they always like this when they're not too busy arguing and biting each other's heads off? The little witch sweat dropped and blushed a little bit at the flirting and the not so subtle innuendos that were coming out of their mouths...

"Nah uh, sexy you're the hot Vampire remember?" Ichigo insisted.

Then he impulsively poked the unsuspecting Moka on the side like the Pillsbury Doughboy but instead of slugging him like any normal Vampire should have because it was an insult to their pride, she squealed in delight, started giggling uncontrollably and she playfully started slapping his finger away. Apparently, the silver haired beauty was pretty ticklish in that area and it was rather sensitive...

"Stop it Ichigo!" Moka pouted cutely.

The strawberry poked her a couple of times before she really got annoyed...

"As my Empress commands..." Ichigo said grinning bowing smoothly.

Moka started giggling again and Ichigo joined in with his chuckling.

Yukari realized quite a few things that day. One of them is that there was more to Kurosaki Ichigo and Akashiya Moka than meets the eye and she wished that they would stop flirting in public so much and just get a room and get the dirty deed done already...

Five minutes later...

"Thank you so much, you really saved me!" Yukari said. "My name is Sendo Yukari."

The three of them were on one of the tables that were provided for the students by the Academy. As Ichigo looked with amusement at a girl called Yukari, he kept an eye on his senses to locate that mysterious spiritual signature that he detected about two weeks ago. It was the main reason why he's been leaving class unexpectedly, skipping lunch with the others, and ditching Newspaper Club altogether. The presence didn't seem very threatening but it was strong and had Hollow presence all over it. It has eluded him so far and seemed one step ahead of the strawberry as it disappeared right before he could confront whatever it was - to his growing frustration. He wondered if this was one of those new Arrancar that Aizen was trying to create? If so then it was certainly got his attention considering it's strong presence but for some reason, he can't seem to track it no matter what he tried. At one point he almost cornered whatever it was using it's spiritual ribbon but just as he was about to catch it, it vanished in the shadows and that's when a group of Hollows ambushed him which he dispatched easily enough. But as he tried to give chase to the thing again, Ichigo lost it's aura and disappeared without so much a trace.

The Substitute told Rukia and Renji about the mysterious signature and they agreed to help him locate it. But just as it managed to elude him, it somehow was difficult for two of his friends to track it down as well. Ichigo had no choice but to report his findings to Soul Society as he promised to Rukia and the only thing that Gramps was able to advise him was that he will have the 12th Division investigate the matter and that he and the others should keep vigilant in the mean time. Well dammit, easy for him to say! As much as the situation was seriously pissing him off, Ichigo had to keep his cool and to live in the present. The strawberry sighed and listened in on the conversation...

"So you're the famous 11 year old genius that I've been hearing about that's in our same grade." Moka said complimenting her. "Congratulations on you being number 1."

"N-not a-at all. You and Kurosaki-san are on the top 10 too." Yukari replied.

"But we aren't number 1, you are." Ichigo said. "I gotta say Sendo that's pretty impressive."

"T-thank y-you..." Yukari said blushing.

"Come on kiddo give yourself a pat in a back and a little bit of credit. You worked hard and you deserved all the accolades that come with. Don't worry what those other morons are saying, they're just jealous of you. If they bother you again though, tell me and I'll take care of it alright?"

"Y-yes, I-I will."

Moka looked at Ichigo and was impressed with the way he was handling such a young girl.

"I'm very impressed with you Kurosaki, didn't figure you would relate to a little girl." Moka said. Then she added playfully. "And here I thought you were just a big bad delinquent."

"You wound me gentle mistress!" Ichigo said dramatically. Then he winked at Yukari who blushed and stifled a giggle. "I have two little sisters at home so you know it comes with a territory..."

"I didn't know that."

"There is a lot about me that you don't know Akashiya!"

"Well I too have sisters of my own..."

"You never told me you have siblings..."

"Well there's some things about me that you don't know either, Kurosaki."

"I stand corrected my lady..." Ichigo said bowing. "Well I guess I'm just gonna rectify that won't I?"

"Hmm, but that means I have to tell you about me and why should I do that? You know that a girl needs to keep her secrets..." Moka said sassily.

"Well, I guess I'm going to have fun prying them away from you then." he replied smirking.

"You can try..." she said in mock severity.

"Akashiya you of all people know there is "no try" in me. I just "do."

"Now you're quoting Star Wars on me you dork!"

"What can I say, I can't help it if I'm very cultured and I keep up with the sign of the times."

Moka frowned at him at first but after awhile she couldn't stop herself from giggling. Ichigo joined in chuckling and Yukari was looking at them both with half lidded eyes and sweat dropped. How did the conversation about her suddenly turned a 180 and thus ending up with the two of them verbally sparring in a good natured manner? It was obvious that the two of them had a thing for each other but since they both have reputations of being stubborn, then it was nigh impossible for them to admit what the little witch sees as mutual attraction that for some reason; they were either too oblivious to be aware it or they're just too damn obstinate for their own good. The little genius had to admit that even with her crush on Ichigo she realized it was rather fleeting and she had sense to know that she had already lost to her idol Moka before she could even do any confessing on her part. She knows that with the way the strawberry has been treating her, he only sees her as a little sister and by golly she can live with that! As for their little intricate dancing around the other, Yukari has decided that she wanted the two people she admired the most to hook up and be the best couple ever. But first Yukari coughed rather loudly to get their attention. Realizing that they had an audience and a rather impressionable one at that, the two of them had the decency to look embarrassed...

Ichigo got over it quickly and he smoothly got the conversation back to the topic at hand...

"Again congratulations Sendo, keep up the good work."

"Yeah, you're really smart aren't you Yukari-chan?' Moka said impressed. "And I have to say that I kinda like that outfit. I think it's cute!"

Yukari sputtered at their praises...

"N-no it's Moka-san who is cool, pretty, and sweet." she said. Then she looked at Ichigo and quickly added. "And you're handsome, kind, and brave Kurosaki-san. In fact I..."

The two of them were dumbfounded looking at the other and then looking at the little genius and blushed. Then Yukari jumped both of them and said...

"I wuv you BOTH!"

"Huh?" Ichigo and Moka replied sweat dropping.

"I think you guys are a cute couple together and I really think you'll should go out! But if things didn't work out I guess I can always ask Moka-san out, right?"

"Umm as a friend ok?" Moka said sweat dropping.

"Yaay!"

"Uh gee thanks, why do I feel like a third wheel all of a sudden?" Ichigo said blandly half lidded.

"Don't worry Kurosaki-san, I'll take you with us." Yukari replied. "I'm sure that Moka-san would really like it if you went too!"

"And why would I want him of all people hanging out with me for?" Moka asked astonished.

"Oh gee thanks traitor and we had this understanding that you were missing me awhile back!"

"S-shut up!" Moka said blushing. "When did I ever said I missed you in the first place?"

Ichigo rolled his eyes...

"Don't you roll your eyes at me!" she hotly.

"This is a free country woman! I can roll my eyes at you if I want to or not!" Ichigo replied heatedly.

Yukari sweat dropped as they started arguing right in front of her. The little genius was almost -being the operative word - sorry that she was the cause of their latest bickering this time. Seriously, if the little witch didn't have so much confidence in those two being together, she wouldn't have deliberately baited both of them to gauge their reaction of going out on a date. Actually she really didn't want to come between them at all but it looks like they are in their own little fantasy land oblivious to the world. She sighed, this little project was going to take all her genius to guarantee that those two won't kill each other on their way to being a power couple of the Academy. Maybe - sometime in the future - she will see Moka-san in a pure white dress with a long train walking down the aisle while Ichigo dashingly waited for his beautiful bride. Now that would be worth the price of admission. The little witch blinked as the dream shattered and was flung back to a reality where the so called "power couple's" argument escalated but surprisingly didn't come to blows. Well at least not yet anyway...

A few minutes later...

"Wow Moka-san's boobs are bigger than I first realized..." Yukari said amazed as she squeezed Moka's breasts between her tiny hands.

Moka -who was understandably blushing madly - was really pissed but the little girl's ministrations were far too - ahem - stimulating for the Vampire to protest. As the trio walked in the halls, an astonished audience gathering as they look dumbfounded at the scene. The silver haired girl tried to fight her "tormentor" off her but she proved helpless as newborn babe against the little witch's "expert" massaging. A moan of pleasure escaped to Moka's horror...

"AHHNNNN!"

Needless to say there was geyser of blood flooding the pristine shiny floor of the hallway as the red stuff burst forth from the mostly male audience...

"WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU GIRLS DOING!" Ichigo shouted who ironically was pinching the bridge of his nose as well.

"Oh my, I didn't realize that you were a such a...loli-lover Akashiya-san?"

Moka's eyebrow twitched uncontrollably as her hated rival Ichinose Tamao finally made an unwelcome appearance after disappearing for the last two weeks. The Senior's absence was like heaven to the Vampire as she didn't have to worry about that slimy hussy putting the moves on Ichigo. It was rather pleasant to get him all to herself for once as two of them talked, hanged out after Newspaper Club, and argued about useless stuff to her heart's content. She thought that was rather nice but unfortunately ever since they both sensed that particularly strong Yoki was when the strawberry started skipping out on class and their group's usual activities. Today was the first time they had spent some time together and now that Tamao-sempai has returned then she could kiss those carefree days and the monopoly on the strawberry's attention goodbye as she knew that the older girl was quite adamantly determined to get Ichigo for herself.

"Over my dead body!" Moka thought blushing. Then said to Tamao out loud. "S-shut up. T-this i-isn't what you t-think and s-so g-get y-your h-head out the g-gutter!"

"Uh huh, tell yourself that why don't you?" Tamao said smiling. Then she turned to Ichigo. "So Ichigo-kun my darling did you miss me when I was away?"

The senior looked at the strawberry cutely while she drew circles on his broad chest...

"Do I have to answer the question?" Ichigo asked blandly.

Then strawberry looked as Yukari still molested Moka and gulped at her very pissed off expression. Despite her intense intimidating gaze that would have melted the North Pole and would have cause untold calamity upon the world, he thought she looked rather cute for some reason...

"Come on Ichigo-kun don't be like that!" she replied cutely. Then she whispered while blushing. "I sure missed you..."

"Damn...I don't know what to say..." he said scratching his head and then looking at her. "Umm thanks?"

"Aww you're sooo cute!" she said gushing

Tamao glomped the hapless strawberry who didn't expect the Senior to "attack" him as it were. Still he caught her nonetheless and he noticed that for some reason she looked happier and much more livelier when he last saw her. The strawberry also noticed that she has toned her body a bit considering he was holding her and could feel the Mermaid's muscular back flex underneath her uniform. He wondered what could have triggered the change in her all of a sudden and then he noticed the black cat sitting the window licking its paw clean. An eyebrow twitched and hoped to Kami that it wasn't who he think it was. Unfortunately though, the cat looked at him then suddenly it vanished and Ichigo knew only one person who could use shunpo even if transformed. The strawberry almost face palmed his forehead as he sweated bullets and wondered what the hell SHE was doing here?

"Ichigo-kun!"

"Huh?"

"Finally got you back down to earth I see!" Tamao said pouting. Then she looked at him worriedly. "I've been trying to get your attention for awhile now. What was so important at the window that you wouldn't pay attention to me?"

Moka and Yukari -whom by the was was still attached to the Vampire like glue - were also curious as to why Ichigo would suddenly space out like he did. Then she remembered her predicament and Vampire finally had enough as a large knot appeared on her forehead and she raised her fist and bonked the little girl on the head...

"WILL YOU FRICKING CUT THAT OUT!"

"Owwie!"

"Okay now I've seen everything..." Kurumu deadpanned while a knot forming on her forehead.

"Now, now Kurumu-chan, please don't do anything rash that you might regret later!" Tsukune said calmly to try and placate the annoyed bluenette.

The Succubus pushed Tamao's face off of the strawberry and the senior comically flew and making a crater on the wall. The Mermaid slid down to the floor slowly like molasses and she saw little chibi Ichigos going around her head...

"I'm soo happy, look don't you see all the cute little Ichigos circling my head?" Tamao said woozily.

The Mermaid smiled contentedly even as she slipped in the sweet oblivion of unconsciousness. Everybody else however sweat dropped...

"Are you alright Ichigo-kun?" Kurumu asked ignoring her. "I do hope that slimy fish wasn't molesting you or anything right?"

"I don't know what you're talking about but thanks for the concern anyway."

"Well someone has to protect you from that slimy woman's clutches..."

A big knot formed on the seemingly unconscious Tamao and her eyes flew open...

"What the hell was the big idea interrupting my bonding time with Ichigo-kun Succubus?" Tamao asked annoyed.

"Hah whatever, it looked like you were taking advantage of him!" Kurumu replied. "I have half a mind reporting your molesting ass to the Chairman!"

Moka stood near Ichigo sweat dropping and looking at the debacle before her. She was still flushed from her little "massage" but she was relieved that the little girl let her go...

"Hey Akashiya aren't you suppose to be the one bickering with Tamao-sempai right now?" Ichigo asked her casually. "Gotta give it to Kurumu though. I didn't know she can be a feisty little firecracker when she gets riled up like this..."

"S-shut up! It's not MY fault that you're an idiot and you let Tamao-sempai take advantage of you!" Moka replied "The Succubus and I are here to protect your chastity." Then she added smirking. "Not that I care but we don't want little ones running around in the house before you're ready. I just can't picture you changing diapers!"

"Ha ha, your a regular comedienne aren't ya?"

"I try my dearest Kurosaki to the best of my ability!" she replied sassily.

"Yeah, whatever. Don't you get cute with me young lady, even if you are one steaming hot Vampire!"

Moka looked at him and blushed. She blinked and he started walking away. The strawberry stopped and motioned her to go with him...

"Well, what are you waiting for?" Ichigo asked. "I for one don't wanna miss class and I'm sure that Kurumu can take care of this."

The Vampire didn't show it but she couldn't help but smile for some reason...

"Besides, I gotta feeling that I don't wanna be here for some reason and knowing those two they're going to involve me in this mess..."

"Uh DUH, don't wanna burst your bubble dear but you ARE already involved!"

"Shh, you don't have to be so obvious with the technicalities!"

Moka looked at him and giggled and the two of them left...

to be continued...

A/N I know, I know I'm going to get an earful from you guys for keeping you in suspense the last time and then I presented you with this...I did it for a reason...I do have a method to my madness you know...I guess you wouldn't be so hot and bothered about it if you didn't actually liked the story huh...lol

-I was actually going to get Yukari's chapter out of the way on 7 but it would have taken me longer to update and I would probably estimate to have 40 plus pages by the end of it all if I added the material I had in mind...So I decided to split it up...Don't worry all the loose ends from chapter 6 and 7 will be concluded next chapter...So don't worry be happy ok...lol

-Chapter 8 will be interesting as the second half will be the preview to an original story arc I have cooked up for this series...I think I will call it Days of future's past...yes there's an x-men story of the same name and I borrowed the title in homage to it...Can't get into details just yet, don't wanna ruin it...This is a response for those people who thought that I don't have enough action in this fic...Really, figured the title of the story says it all though...lol

-Read and Review as usual...If you have any ideas or concerns please do tell

-Cya kiddies in the next chapter...