Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Rosario Vampire. I am merely twisting the creator's vision into my own dream. If the supernatural, sexuality, or violence is offensive to you, than you should not read this.

Chapter 206

Mizore felt a moment of confusion. She had found herself standing in a garden with no memory of how she had gotten there. The garden reminded her of her Summer visit to the Heian Palace. There were arched bridges over calm water and foot paths between bushes and trees that followed the curving landscape. The most visible difference was that everything was ether made of ice or covered with frost.

Mizore wanted to look around the garden, but her attention was drawn to the tallest hill. It looked like it was in the center of the garden with a small azumaya, or Japanese gazebo, on top of it. Withing the azumaya Mizore could see a woman in a long and colorful kimono watching her. The woman had rich dark hair, cream-white skin, and radiated the kind of primal power that reminded Mizore mountain glaciers, winter storms, and even Tsukune's and Moka's youkai. While the power was immense, it was also calm. The woman was just sitting among on a bench watching Mizore; waiting patiently.

Mizore was surprised when she realized that she was climbing the hill to meet the woman. She was nervous, but not afraid. There was a sense of familiarity about everything. She felt as if she should recognize the woman. It finally clicked into place in her mind when she reached the top of the hill.

"Tsukune told me about you," Mizore said.

"Very good, child," The woman said in a proud and motherly voice.

"Why am I here?" Mizore asked.

"Because I wished to speak with you," The woman gestured to a cushion by her feet. "Please, come and sit beside me."

Mizore moved without conscious thought. Without ever taking her eyes off the woman, she knelt down in front of her. Mizore did not know what was going on, and wondered why she wasn't afraid.

"You have chosen a noble path my child," The woman said. "Your people will be pleased."

"Thank you, Mother," Mizore wondered where that response had come from. At the same time she was absolutely certain that the woman was talking about her decision to have Tsukune's child.

"But now that you have made your choice," The woman continued. "You will have to see it through to the end." She pointed to Mizore's abdomen. "You are responsible for the life you have decided to create. More than that, you will be responsible for the lives that may be changed by your decision. There will be no going back, no undoing what you have chosen to do."

"I know," Mizore said.

"Do you?" The woman's face became firm. "Then remember this... Remember when it comes time to accept the consequences of your decision, that you are the responsible for it all."

"What are you talking about?" Mizore questioned. She wasn't sure if she was being threatened or warned, or some combination of the two.

"You will understand when the time comes, my child," The woman said. "And when your child is born, it shall carry my blessings."

"Thank you," Mizore said while still feeling off balance.

"Rest now, my child," The woman said, and Mizore instantly felt herself starting to fall asleep. "You have much to do, and both my son and your daughter will be counting on you."

Xxx

Mizore woke up back in her own room in the student village. She lay in her bed blinking up at the ceiling as her mind caught up to what had happened. She knew that it had been more than a dream, so she had to take a little while to make sure she knew what it had been all about. She took some slow, deep breaths, calming her mind and body. Then she turned her focus inwards. Mizore closed her eyes and concentrated on her own body, feeling the flow of her own Warmth.

It was there, within her own body. It was a tiny spark, a single hot ember that would grow into the flame of life. She had done it. A wave of joy filled her at the certainty that she was carrying Tsukune's child. That same joy was the only thing that kept her from being crushed under the fear that Tsukune might see what she had done as a betrayal. Even if he rejected her for her decision, Mizore would always have a small piece of Tsukune in her life. It was a harsh kind of comfort, but Mizore was still able to smile. She would understand if Tsukune couldn't accept her after what she had done, but she would still take pride and pleasure in doing her duty to her people, and honoring Tsukune in her own way.

XxxxXxxxXxxx

The day had come at last. The day of the Closing Ceremonies for Tsukune's third and final year at Youkai Academy. Today he was going to graduate and his high school life would come to an end.

Tsukune, after a night alone, woke himself early to get ready for the day. He carefully washed and groomed and dressed himself to look the best that he could. He had every decoration cleaned or polished and arranged on his uniform before putting it on. When he was satisfied with his appearance, he headed for the door. Already most of his belongings had been packed up and shipped off, some to his family home, and some to his new apartment. The few things left, the Me sisters were going to have packed up before the end of the day.

Ruby had breakfast ready for Tsukune in the kitchen. A traditional breakfast with rice, miso soup, two grilled fish, and a small bowl of pickled vegetables. Tsukune approved of her choice of foods.

"Thank you Ruby," Tsukune said. He stepped to her and gave her a small kiss on the cheek. "It looks delicious."

After breakfast it was time for Tsukune to head up to the school. He wouldn't be carrying books on his final day. He had only a single pocket notebook and a pair of pens inside his blazer pocket. His cell phone, fully charged but with the ringer off was in another pocket. He wasn't expecting any calls or messages. He wasn't even sure how long the thin cellular signal was even going to last, it having been set up as an attempted cover for Fairy Tail trying to get close to the school. Tsukune was carrying his phone for the sake of its built in camera. With a final tug at his blazer and a check of his polished shoes, Tsukune stepped out to face the day.

The senior members of the Newspaper Club came together in the village street, all of them in their best school uniforms. He greeted Yukari with a smile and a hug. For each of his lovers, Tsukune gave a gentle kiss. All of them were feeling the emotions of the day. Mizore was trying hard to keep a brave expression on her face. Because she knew that what she had chosen to do was, in a way, a betrayal of Tsukune's trust, she didn't say anything when Moka and Kurumu each took on of Tsukune's arms.

The schedule for the day was all planned out. Everybody would attend their homeroom for attendance and for the third year students to receive their official diplomas. At the ceremony later they would be handed a rolled up parchment with a ribbon just for show. Apparently one of the members of the board had a fondness for pageantry and theatrics. Tsukune walked with his friends towards the school and their last day there. When they reached the fork that lead to the dorms they were met by Inari.

"Detail, attention," Inari called out.

Tsukune was willing to admit that he was surprised to see a small squad of Student Police waiting for him. Apparently the body of the Student Police had been planning something special of their own. Inari, Tama, Usa, Kumi and Rumi all had black sword belts strapped over their uniforms. From them, hanging in saber fashion, were polished black bokens with red tassels.

"Good morning, Sir," Inari said with a crisp salute.

"Good morning, Lieutenant," Tsukune returned the salute. "And..." Tsukune knew who the gathered Student Police members were, but wanted to give Inari an opportunity to explain.

"Sir," Inari said. "Your honor guard is ready for inspection."

Tsukune gave Inari a look that expressed a sense of suffering. Inari gave him a cocky smile in return. Suppressing a sigh, he turned to his honor guard. He made a show of looking them over and made a few approving sounds before turning back to Inari.

"Carry on," Tsukune said.

He rejoined his arms with Moka and Kurumu and resumed his walk towards the school. Inari fell in behind Tsukune's left shoulder. Yukari found herself between the fox spirit and Mizore. The other four Student Police fell in behind the rest of the group. Tsukune tried to ignore the fact that his last walk to school was turning into a parade.

Tsukune was glad when he reached his classroom. After attendance and the receiving of diplomas, everybody was given a moment to relax. A small party was held with snacks and drinks for all. Tsukune and Kurumu both had their phones out to take pictures, and they were not the only ones. It was only for a little while, but everybody enjoyed their last time together in the classroom. Finally it was time for the general assembly of the Closing Ceremonies.

Tsukune's honor guard was waiting for him in the hall. So was the rest of the Student Police. Tsukune hoped his smile didn't show how embarrassed he felt as he was escorted. Moka had a proud light in her eyes as she walked arm-in-arm with him. Kurumu was positively glowing from the attention. Tsukune was willing to put up with a little embarrassment if they were happy.

The closing ceremony had been, once again an event to be endured. The Board Chairman had given a speech about expecting good things from the students, and mentioned his hopes for the future of the school. After the opening speech, each department head had a turn to address the assembled students. After that, the graduating students were called up in order to be handed their mock-certificates by the Board Chairman.

And then it was over. The school year was over. Tsukune's high school life was over. The routine and structure and expectations of being a student were gone. Tsukune dismissed his honor guard. He exchanged contact information with a few more students and graduates. More pictures were taken. Before he knew it, Tsukune was back in the village with his closest friends. Even that did not last.

Everybody was packed up and dressed for their trips home. Norra and Shiro were both loaded down for their respective trips. Hiru was with them, the three creatures resembled modern machines and were making engine like sounds as they waited. Moka's family had sent a car for her and Kokoa, a large, old fashion limousine, in honor of Moka's graduation. The driver, a wiry old man, stood by the car patiently. Ruby, dressed for riding, was standing near Hiru with Tsukune's helmet and jacket.

A tense silence fell over the group. Yukari had to leave first. She had a bus to catch.

"Don't forget to write," Yukari said with a sniff as she finished giving everybody a hug goodbye.

Mizore was the next one to head for home. She didn't want to leave, but she wasn't sure how much longer she could keep from crying. She was afraid that if she did start crying then everything would come out, and she was not ready for that. With hugs for Moka, Kurumu, and Ruby, and a kiss for Tsukune, Mizore said her goodbyes.

"I will have a place ready," Mizore promised Tsukune. "Any time you want to come for a visit. Any time you want to just find some peace. Please come and see me."

"I will," Tsukune said.

Mizore gave him one more shy smile before mounting Shiro. It took her two minutes to ride out of sight of the village. After that, she started to cry and pleaded with Shiro to go as fast as possible. Mizore had to get away from the school and all of the memories it held.

Between Moka and Kurumu there was a stand-off to determine who would be the next one to leave. Kokoa was by the car, pacing back and forth and shooting dark looks towards the others. It was finally Tsukune that broke the stalemate.

"Kurumu," Tsukune said. "I promise that I will call you when I get home. I will want to make sure you made it home safely as well."

"You could come with me," Kurumu offered.

"My mother is waiting for Ruby and I," Tsukune declined. "You should get going. Your mother is going to worry if you're late."

"Alright," Kurumu sighed with a cute pout. "But you better come and visit me soon."

"I will," Tsukune promised.

That satisfied Kurumu for the moment. She gave Tsukune hug and a kiss, and even gave Moka a quick hug as well. And then it was her turn to ride off. She was tempted to just go straight to Tsukune's home, but knew her own mother was expecting her.

"Tsukune," Moka said with a smile not that the competition was out of the way. "I want you to be careful..."

"I will be," Tukune said.

"I know you want to be..." Moka frowned at him.

"Moka," Tsukune said. "I love you. I wish I could just bring you home with me today."

"My family would never..." Moka started to protest.

"I know," Tsukune said. "But I am sworn to you. You know that all you have to do is summon me and I will come to you." He gave her a warm and loving smile. "Even of you just want to ask me over for lunch."

"Tsukune..." Moka complained. "You know that is not why I want to be with you."

"I know its not the only reason," Tsukune said as he reached out to hug her. "But do you want to know something?"

"What?" Moka asked as she wrapped her arms around him in return.

"I'm glad that you like my blood," Tsukune said in a low voice. He leaned his head in close so his lips were brushing her ear. "Because it was my blood that you first found special about me. It was the first thing that helped us make a connection. And now, it gives you just one more reason to be with me, for me to be with you."

"Tsukuneee..." Moka's voice was a low moan.

"Moka," Tsukune whispered in her ear.

"Tsukuneeee..." Moka's voice almost sounded pained. "Capacuuu..."

XxxxxX

"Did you have to keep me waiting?" Kokoa complained as the car finally started for home.

"Hmmmm?" Moka looked at her little sister with smile.

"You know you're going to see him every chance you get," Kokoa huffed. "There was no reason to take so long to say goodbye."

"Yes there was," Moka smirked.

"What?" Kokoa demanded. "And don't just give me some mushy excuse about being in love."

Moka answered by blowing gently at Kokoa. She could still taste Tsukune's blood on her tongue, and knew that its scent would be on her breath. The look in the younger vampire's eyes told Moka that her sister understood exactly why it was worth taking a little extra time to be with Tsukune.

"You suck," Kokoa pouted.

XxxxxxxxxX

The Aono house was filled with happy people. Kasumi was glad to have her son home, and he had graduated high school too. It was an occasion to be celebrated. While she had been tempted to have a big party, Kasumi had decided that a family celebration would be a better choice. And of course for a family celebration a sukiyaki dinner was the best choice. When Tsukune had come home, Kasumi had rushed to greet him at the door. She hugged him close, happy to have him home. After making sure that he was really home and unharmed, Tsukune's mother then pounced on Ruby.

"I'm so glad you're home," Kasumi gushed over Ruby. "I've missed you so much. You have to tell me how you have been doing..."

Ruby was feeling a little overwhelmed. Kasumi was giving her at least as much attention as she was her own son. By the time Tsukune had taken his and Ruby's bags up stairs, Kasumi was already chattering away about all the things she wanted to share with the younger woman. Ruby may have felt that the other woman was over doing things a little, but the total acceptance into the home and family was wonderful.

XxXxxX

Tsukune wasn't sure if he should feel amused or not by his mother. The woman had a futon folded up in his room and he knew the extra bedding was for Ruby. The first time Tsukune had bought his friend and servant home, Ruby had spun a story that had his drama loving mother in tears. Ruby had said she couldn't stand to be too be without Tsukune, because he was so special and important. Kasumi had eaten it all up and accepted it without hesitation. His mother had practically adopted Ruby, and saw the witch as the daughter she had always wanted. So of course there was nothing wrong with a brother and sister sharing a room, especially when Ruby had convinced her new mother that it was the only way to avoid nightmares about being abandoned and alone.

Of course Tsukune was able to see the benefits of his mother being so taken with Ruby. One such benefit would be that his mother would be so busy mothering Ruby that he would be free to spend time catching up with his friends over the next few days. While he was looking forward to spending a couple of days acting like a teenager, he knew Ruby would be playing the part of the dutiful daughter and his personal maid at the same time. When he had to go back to work, Tsukune knew Ruby would have his uniforms ready. This all meant that Tsukune would have almost no responsibilities for a little while. Such thoughts put a smile on Tsukune's face as he got ready for supper.

XxxxxxX

Yukari settled into her bed with a sigh. She had graduated high school and made it home safe and sound. In a couple of months she would be attending a university. Her parents were proud of her. They had welcomed her home, then taken her out for a fancy dinner. They talked about wanting to do things with her, as a family, and she liked the idea. But there was a dark shadow laying on her heart.

Yukari missed her friends. Going to university while living at home was going to be nice, in its own way, but she was already feeling lonely. With the exception of one event in the near future, Yukari knew her circle of friends were going to be drifting away from her. She had never found that special connection with Moka or Tsukune, and now she never would. She would still be friends with them, but the idea of what might have been would not leave her.

"I'm going to miss them, Manny," Yukari said as she petted her familiar.

"Nya," Manny said with his usual casualness.

"I'm even going to miss Kurumu," Yukari admitted. "The boob monster always made the best cookies."

"Nyaaaa..."