Kurumu absently massaged her breast as she walked under a blue metal arch, marking the entrance of the Morrison Hill Road playground. Green metal fencing was mounted upon concrete bricks shaped in different sizes of squares and rectangles, enclosing the park. Trees stood up defiantly from patches of green which had survived the human desire to cover everything with stone and metal.

The playground was in an adjacent area which was accessible by passing under an identical blue metal arch beside the one she had taken. The nearest section of the play structure had a green pyramid roof over a green curved slide. A rickety bridge connected this section to the part with the red pyramid roof. Further away was a blue pyramid roof. It was all made of plastic and metal.

The paved path she walked upon varied in width. Curved white concrete topped with a stainless steel tube marked the edge of the path. Bushes, trees and flower patches were crammed into the spaces not paved over. Four palm trees stood proudly in a large, odd shaped island built up from the paved path which surrounded it.

To the right of the island were two paved paths curving down a short hill. Both paths were covered with arched, dark plastic panels which were held in green metal framing. The plastic was clear enough to be seen through. Foliage and trees lined these pathways.

"While I understand your concerns, there was no reason to accompany us."

Touhou turned about, touching the pipe which was nestled in the corner of his mouth. The elder was wearing a black robe over a white one.

"I don't mind the company, Master Touhou."

Tsukune was garbed in the track suit he had worn yesterday. The outfit was scuffed, bloodied and torn in several spots. It was ruined from a social standpoint but still whole enough for training.

"One of us probably should remain at camp."

Yukari huffed at Rubi's suggestion. The younger witch was wearing her new black denim jeans with that pink tee shirt bearing the Minnie mouse graphic. The character had on a yellow dress and a big red bow between her round, black ears.

Since weather was not an issue here, Rubi was wearing her black crop top with a ruffled skirt which brushed the ground as she walked. Hoping none of her training got too physical, Kurumu was wearing her pink halter top with her white denim jeans and platform sneakers.

"That was Kurumu's job."

"I'm not going to spend all day watching our provisions."

"There's nothing you can do here."

"I could say the same about you, Ms. Sendou."

"I have trained with Rubi countless times. I am more likely to learn something from watching this human modification process than wasting another day with her."

Touhou sighed with a puff on his pipe.

"Are you absolutely certain that you want to do this, Mr. Aono?"

Tsukune nodded, clenching his fists.

"Yes. This is the only path I can take."

"Very well. It would be best for you girls to find other ways to occupy your time."

"No. I am going to see this through."

"Ms. Kurono. This process requires the insertion of one hundred nine magical needles. Each of these needles will be placed in specific locations all over Mr. Aono's body."

"Like acupuncture?"

Touhou turned to address Yukari.

"This is not a simple matter of having Mr. Aono remove his shirt. Everything will be coming off."

"Everything?!"

"Everything, Mr. Aono. Down to your birthday suit."

As Tsukune staggered with shock, Kurumu shared a glance with Yukari. They both shrugged.

"I don't have a problem with that."

"We've seen it all before."

"That's not the issue!"

Yukari huffed at Tsukune's protest.

"I'm not the one whom might jump on you if you strip down."

"I'm not going to lose all control just because he takes his clothes off!"

"I'm not undressing in front of Yukari!"

"But you're okay with stripping for the others?"

"I didn't say that!"

Rubi toyed with her hair while blushing.

"I wouldn't mind seeing you naked, Mr. Aono."

"I would!"

Kurumu's heart fluttered from anxiety. Tsukune was about to undergo an operation which would end his life as a human. Despite always knowing he would become a vampire, this felt so surreal.

"I have to be here, Tsukune."

"I can live with that but-"

"I can't leave you two alone."

"Are you forgetting that I'll be here?"

Yukari rolled her eyes at Touhou.

"You will be focused on this transformation process. Somebody needs to keep this hopeless girl from assaulting Tsukune."

"I'm not going to assault him!"

"You've done it before."

Kurumu felt so frustrated with Yukari as Touhou chuckled.

"That won't be needed, Ms. Sendou. I will be putting up a magical barrier before I begin."

"A barrier? What kind of barrier?"

"One that would kill any living creature trying to pass through it."

"Like moths to a flame."

"I am not going to lose my mind if I see Tsukune naked!"

"I know you won't, Kurumu. I'm glad that you will be watching over me."

Kurumu whimpered at his encouraging words while the elder chuckled.

"As amusing as this is, I'm not putting up this barrier to keep a horny devil out."

"I'm not horny!"

"It's to keep a Shinso devil inside."

Kurumu shivered at the old man's calm statement.

"Are you expecting Tsukune to become a ghoul?"

"It is possible, Ms. Sendou. I cannot let a Shinso ghoul running around unchecked."

"Rubi and I both know the sealing spell to force the ghoul back."

Touhou perked up, taking the pipe out of his mouth. He shook out the contents.

"That is good news. I also know that spell but would never be able to cast it while facing off against such a foe in an enclosed barrier. You are lucky that you have such resourceful friends, Mr. Aono."

Tsukune grinned, nodding as the elder slipped the pipe into the folds of his robes.

"I am blessed."

"No need to be shy, young man. Part with your clothes while I set up the barrier."

"Is it really necessary for me to fully undress?"

"This is a painful process, Mr. Aono. You will lose control of your bodily functions."

Tsukune sighed as he unzipped the track suit. He was not wearing anything beneath it. His chest still bore the scars of his trials at Yokai Academy but his torso seemed even more defined and muscular than when Kurumu had seen it during their training inside the Headmaster's paradise. It was undeniably sexy.

Tsukune chuckled nervously, loosening his slacks before pushing them down to his knees. He leaned forward in his midnight blue boxers to remove his shoes and socks. Once those were off, he stepped out of the slacks and folded them up before placing them beside the discarded top.

"I'll take your clothes. These other two aren't mature enough to handle this."

Kurumu pouted as Yukari strolled over to Tsukune with her hands out. Tsukune smiled graciously, picking up his belongings and surrendering them to Yukari.

"Boxers too."

Tsukune blushed, turning his back to Yukari before acquiescing to her. He bared his rump which looked more chiseled than Kurumu recalled. He got one foot free and then the other, offering the garment in a manner which kept his ass facing the witch. Yukari took the garments and strolled over to the curb by Kurumu. She placed Tsukune's loafers beneath the metal tubing, stacking his garments on top of it.

"You seem, bigger, than I remember."

Tsukune blushed at Rubi's announcement, covering himself.

"You must be imagining things."

"She is. You look about the same size."

"Why were you looking?!"

Kurumu smirked at Yukari's stoic behavior.

"She's acting like this is nothing, but she must remember that sexy dream she begged me to give her."

Yukari turned scarlet, promptly looking away.

"Why would you bring that up now?!"

"I'm just teasing you."

"Yea, well, that wasn't real."

"Back up, young ladies. I want to make a full enclosure within which I will perform this procedure."

Kurumu retreated under Touhou's prompting. He placed a charm on the ground, pausing for a moment. She felt a surge of power rush towards his position. He continued on in a clockwise manner, placing more charms either on the ground or the metal tubing. He kept the island in the center.

Her heart ached as the elder steadily neared the spot where he had began. This was it. Tsukune had to survive this. And after that, he would become a Shinso vampire with the potential of defeating Fujisaki. He would have the power to win Moka's hand if she stubbornly demanded him to fight for it.

She closed her eyes, focusing on what Ginei had said. She loved Tsukune and wanted him to be happy. This was the best course for his happiness. She should be happy for him. It was hard and it hurt. But she had to reject these restrictions on love.

"The barrier is set, Mr. Aono. Are you prepared?"

Tsukune breathed in deeply still covering himself as the elder circled behind him.

"Yes, Master Touhou. For Moka's sake, I will become strong."

"There is no turning back now. We will soon find out if your determination is enough."

Touhou hopped up into the air, vaulting over Tsukune. A light flashed as something struck Tsukune's left shoulder with enough force to cause the young man to stagger. Touhou landed on his feet several paces away as Tsukune grimaced. The sharp end of a needle jutted from his shoulder. Tsukune shivered as he straightened up, looking upon the elder with resolve.

"Impressive, Mr. Aono. Not even a cry of surprise. I know you must be in agony right now. That needle is imbued with my own spiritual energy. It will steadily burrow its way into your body, tearing it apart so that it can be stitched back up in a way that allows the channeling of your demonic energies."

Tsukune trembled with his hands clenched over his manhood. His entire body was tense.

"I need you to remain awake and aware throughout the entire process, Mr. Aono. I expect you to make clear and coherent responses."

"I'm ready for the next needle."

Touhou chuckled, drifting in a wide circle to Tsukune's right.

"I suppose that you are."

Touhou vaulted over Tsukune again. This time the light slashed down to strike Tsukune's right shoulder. Tsukune cried out, stumbling to his knees with his hands touching the paved ground.

"The pain will intensify with each needle I insert. If I suspect that you are not consciously with us, I will be forced to suspend the operation."

"I thought you said that there was no turning back."

"There isn't, Ms. Sendou. But I can't work with an unconscious patient."

Tsukune growled, forcing himself back. His trembling hands covered himself as he stared out resolutely.

"I'm ready for the next one."

Touhou clucked his tongue before strolling to his right.

"I don't want to overwhelm you with pain, young man."

"It's only going to get worse, right? Just do it."

Touhou flipped his hand, producing another needle in his fingers.

"As you wish."

The elder whipped his hand forward with two fingers pointing at Tsukune. Another line of light flashed, striking Tsukune in the his left shoulder blade. Tsukune staggered forward but retained his vertical base. His lips pulled back in a visage of pain.

Tears rolled down Kurumu's cheeks as she watched the death of her selfish hope. Her forced hatred of him to protect her own heart had been rooted in his stupid decision to chase Hatsue. A decision that she had felt would make nobody happy. But now he wanted Moka. She could never hate him for that.

"Whom are you doing this for, Mr. Aono?"

"For Moka."

Kurumu covered her mouth as another light flashed, striking Tsukune in the right shoulder blade. The young man fell forward on his hands and knees, panting and grunting in pain.

"Stop it. Slow down. Please."

Touhou glanced at her though his eyes were hidden behind those dark glasses. The elder nodded as he circled the young man.

"I will, Ms. Kurono. Making these needles is quite tiresome for me."

"Stop crying, Kurumu. You're going to make me cry."

Kurumu pouted at Yukari. She sniffled, wiping away her tears.

"I can't help it. It hurts to see him like this."

"Then don't look at him."

Yukari was pointedly looking at the ground with a stiff expression.

"Come on, Mr. Aono. Get up."

Rubi's breathy words were unlikely to reach Tsukune. The older witch was watching Tsukune with rapt attention and clenched fists.

"Is that all you have in you? We've only done four."

Tsukune grunted in response to Touhou. He pushed himself up slowly, stumbling a step. He made no attempt to cover himself, forcing Kurumu to adjust her gaze.

"Can you tell me the names of your parents, Mr. Aono?"

Tsukune panted through clenched teeth.

"Kasumi. And Kouji."

"Are you ready for the next one?"

"Yes, Master Touhou."

The elder moved to Tsukune's left, producing another needle in his fingertips. He flicked his hand at the young man, slicing through the air. The needle bit into the flesh of Tsukune's left thigh. Tsukune howled, moving his hands to the injury.

"Do not touch the needle, Mr. Aono. That will only hinder the operation."

Tsukune grunted and panted as he pulled his shaking hands away from the needle. He clenched both into fists as he continued groaning.

"I'm going to spread the needles out as much as I can. But it will get to the point that there won't be a spot on your body that isn't in pain."

Tsukune brought his fists to his chest as he shivered.

"I understand. I'm ready for the next."

"Hold on, Mr. Aono. I need a moment to prepare the next needle."

Tsukune trembled as Touhou drifted to his right side. The elder turned to face Tsukune, spawning a new needle in his fingertips.

"I know this will sound difficult, but try to relax."

Touhou gestured sharply, sending the needle into Tsukune's right thigh. Tsukune cried out with his hands moving once again to the injury.

"Hands up, Mr. Aono. This won't work as efficiently if you tamper with the needles."

Tsukune growled in pain, pulling his hands from his thighs.

"Open your hands, Mr. Aono. I will do your palms now. That should keep your reflexes in check."

Tsukune panted, closing his eyes. He held his left hand out with his fingers splayed. Kurumu could feel the tension as he remained like that for a whole minute before Touhou presented the next needle. She flinched when the projectile shot towards Tsukune, biting into the center of his palm. He cried out, curling his fingers as he lowered his hand.

"Good, Mr. Aono. Now the other."

Kurumu clutched her breast as Tsukune whimpered and panted erratically. He took a long, agonizing moment before he finally raised his right hand up with his fingers spread out.

"I will do your feet next. Do you think you will be able to stand?"

"Only one way to find out."

Touhou chuckled, slashing through the air with his hand. A needle instantly cut across the distance, burying itself in Tsukune's other palm. Tsukune let out a strangled cry but kept his hand up for a long moment. He sobbed with ragged breaths as he lowered his hand.

"Many Chinese acupuncturists will tell you that there are over two thousand points on the human body. Consider yourself fortunate that we only need to do a little more than a hundred to open up the major meridians through which your life force will flow."

Tsukune panted and gasped while his whole body trembled. The needles in his palms kept him from clenching them into fists.

"Only. Hundred more."

Touhou continued to chuckle as he materialized another needle at his fingertips.

"That's the spirit. If we can keep up this pace, we might finish before lunch."

"Food. Farthest from my mind."

"Understandable. At least we will have the option of rice and noodles this time."

Tsukune let out a pained laugh. Before he could respond to Touhou, the elder sent the new needle flying into the top of Tsukune's left foot. His broken laugh became a piteous cry as the young man double over. He gingerly lifted his foot from the smooth concrete before touching it back down. He whimpered, lifting his foot up again.

"That hurts. Can't tell. Which is worse. To have my foot down. Or up."

"Stand up, Mr. Aono. I have numerous needles for your spine and chest. It will be best for you to remain upright as much as possible."

Tsukune shuddered, straightening up. It took Touhou several painful seconds to form the next needle.

"Can I. Start training. After?"

"Like any operation, you will need time to recover. Assuming you survive, I would prefer for you to rest these next few days. We can look into training you after our real world lunch."

Touhou ended his statement with throwing the needle. The projectile instantly struck Tsukune's right foot in the exact same spot as the other. Tsukune whined piteously, tugging on Kurumu's heart.

"That looks so painful. Do you think I could try it?"

Kurumu looked at Rubi with wide eyed disbelief.

"Sheesh, Rubi. Wipe the drool off your chin."

Rubi's glassy eyes focused with Yukari's reprimand. The witch promptly rubbed the corner of her mouth with the back of her hand. Kurumu shook her head, doubting she would ever understand that girl.

"Mr. Aono. I need to hear a response."

Touhou stood solemnly before Tsukune whom was down on his knees with his face against the concrete. The elder had reverted to his true form hours ago, claiming it was too difficult to keep up the illusion. His robes were the same which apparently were sized for this form.

"Please, Mr. Aono. Stand up."

Touhou held up a needle but the young man remained unresponsive. Numerous needles riddled every part of Tsukune's body with over twenty down his spine alone. Several of these magically charged pins were barely visible, having buried deeper into Tsukune's skin since they had first been placed. The first few at his shoulders and shoulder blades were gone entirely.

"Come on, Tsukune. You can do it."

Rubi's breathy words echoed the plea in Kurumu's heart. The witch held her hands together with fingers entwined as if in prayer.

"Get up, Mr. Aono. This can't be the first time something has hit you in the groin."

Kurumu grimaced at the slight amusement in Touhou's voice.

"He needs more time."

"It has already been more then ten minutes, Ms. Kurono. I'm afraid that I must suspend the operation."

"Could we cast a healing spell to speed up his recovery?"

"Unfortunately that will not be possible, Ms. Toujou. Pouring energy into his body will only accelerate the progress of my needles. The only things we can do is wait and hope."

Kurumu grimaced as she massaged her aching breast. The time between needles had steadily increased. They had been in the high eighties when the others had brought lunch out to them. That had easily been more than an hour ago.

"You have to get up, Tsukune."

Touhou sighed heavily with a shake of his head.

"We were so close. The last three needles to connect mind, body and spirit."

"Isn't that what all of your needles have been doing?"

"No, Ms. Sendou. Up until now, these needles have all had the purpose of reconstructing the body. The next needle would be the last with that purpose, completing the network of spiritual channels."

"What are the last two needles for?"

Touhou paused to regard Yukari.

"The penultimate needle is aimed at the forehead. It would reshape Mr. Aono's mind to properly make use of the new spiritual pathways."

"Reshape his mind? How is Tsukune supposed to communicate if you have a needle changing his brain?"

"He won't, Ms. Sendou. That is what makes the final needle the most dangerous. But I must have the computer in place before I turn on the engine."

"What is the engine?"

"The heart, Ms. Toujou. That is where the spirit resides. The final needle-"

Tsukune howled in agony as he lifted his head up. Kurumu's heart twisted as the young man started to pant heavily. Clenching his teeth, Tsukune slowly pushed himself up onto his feet. He staggered as he regained a vertical base.

"Good, Mr. Aono. I need you to talk to us."

"Power. Stronger. Need to save. Moka."

Touhou nodded solemnly, drifting around Tsukune.

"That will do. Prepare yourself for the hundred seventh needle."

Kurumu tensed up as the elder moved directly behind Tsukune. She heard the brief whistle in the air as the needle darted into the base of Tsukune's neck.

Tsukune cried out as he fell forward to his knees once again. His hands came up but could not touch the needles buried along the vertebrae of his neck. Each of his fingertips had their own needles.

"We will both need a moment. Can you still talk to us, Mr. Aono?"

Tsukune panted and groaned, flexing his hands. He remained huddled on the ground for a long moment, making guttural, pained sounds.

"Hang in there, Mr. Aono. I need you to stay with us."

The banter which Touhou had encouraged over these last hours had been unexpected. He had asked for all sorts of things from Tsukune's most important memories in junior high to his favorite foods. And since he needed time to prepare these needles, the elder had pushed for more than one word answers. He wanted Tsukune to share the reasons behind his favorite songs, colors and memories. While Kurumu knew most of these answers, she knew this was deepening Rubi's and Yukari's understanding of him.

"Get this. Over with."

Tsukune growled fiercely, forcing himself back up.

"I admire your resolve, Mr. Aono. But this old man still needs more time to make the next needle."

Tsukune regarded Touhou with pained eyes.

"How many left?"

"Two more. What do you plan to do after you save the world from the greatest threat to mankind?"

"Rescue. Moka."

"I was asking for after that."

Tsukune panted with ragged breaths. His eyes went distant.

"Return. School."

"We should go to Disneyland!"

Touhou barked out a laugh, turning amused eyes upon Rubi.

"This isn't like winning some major sport event in the West, Ms. Toujou."

"But I didn't get to go Disneyland with the rest of you."

Tsukune wheezed out a laugh, flinching in pain.

"Fine. Disney. Together."

Kurumu smiled despite the pain in her heart.

"Yea. This time it will be all of us."

Every fiber in her body wanted her to rush to his side and hold him. While part of that desire was her mating instinct, she genuinely wanted him to feel better. Her fingers still ached from the two times she had impulsively rushed the barrier only to get thrown back on her ass.

"I shouldn't have skipped lunch. I'm exhausted."

Tsukune groaned at Touhou's remark, trembling.

"Couldn't eat. Anyways."

"True. You would have emptied your stomach again. It was rather unpleasant cleaning up the messes you've made."

"Are you. Ready. Yet?"

"Almost there, Mr. Aono. I do apologize for the delay."

It took about another minute of thick silence before the elder produced another needle. Touhou let out a deep breath, holding the pin out.

"Lift up your head, Mr. Aono. I want a clean shot."

The moment Tsukune complied, Touhou whipped his hand forward, firing the gleaming projectile into the center of Tsukune's forehead. Tsukune's eyes rolled back as he staggered. The young man twisted before falling in an unceremonious heap. His body convulsed for a few seconds before becoming still.

Kurumu covered her mouth with both hands as her chest tightened up. She could sense the absence of Tsukune's awareness. It was like he was dead.

"I'll never reach his heart if he doesn't get back up."

"How is he supposed to stand up? You disabled his brain."

"You are underestimating the strength of the spirit, Ms. Sendou. If his spirit and mind are in harmony, his spirit will carry out the wishes of his absent mind. I hope that Master Yao's assessment was right."

"What will happen if they aren't?"

Touhou breathed in deep with his eyes fixed on Tsukune's body.

"Then you and Ms. Sendou need to start your preparations for the sealing spell."

"Hold up. You just said that we can't cast a healing spell on him. The sealing spell works like a blanket to smother an out of control fire. Won't such a spell mess up your operation?"

"Yes. It is most likely that your spell would kill him."

Rubi gasped, shaking her head in disbelief while Yukari scowled.

"That is not why we agreed to stay. We wanted to help."

"You would be helping, Ms. Sendou. If Mr. Aono loses to the will of the Shinso blood, there is no saving him. There were only two outcomes to this process. Success and death."

"I will not help you kill Tsukune."

Touhou looked upon Yukari coldly.

"I was prepared to do this on my own, Ms. Sendou. I don't need your help if it comes to that."

Kurumu shook her head, clutching her hands tightly to her bosom.

"No. Tsukune won't lose. The ghoul was weakening."

"We shall soon find out, Ms. Kurono."

The silver chain about Tsukune's right wrist shattered. Kurumu could feel the rush of power flowing out from Tsukune. An aura which promised death and destruction.

"As I feared. His mind was the only thing holding the beast back."

Tsukune's skin rapidly blackened. Every needle piercing his skin was sucked into his torso as he placed his hands on the paved concrete. He slowly pushed up on his feet as his hair turned a silvery white.

"Moka."

Black chiropteran wings burst out of his back with a spray of black ash. His hands doubled in size with his fingers become blood red talons. His body contorted into a mesh of black bone and crimson sinew.

"Why does he have wings?"

Kurumu gasped, having no answer for Rubi. Her heart ached furiously, feeling nothing of Tsukune within this monstrosity before them.

"It's astonishing to think he still had this much power. It is a pity that Mikogami's holy lock could not withstand the operation. This ghoul will be even more difficult to put down."

"What should we do?"

"You need to start casting the spell, Ms. Toujou. This beast is accelerating the operation. It might soon become too powerful for me to put down on my own."

Kurumu shook her head.

"No. It can't end like this."

In the blink of an eye, Tsukune was upon Touhou. The elder barely had his hands up in time to take the brunt of the attack. Touhou was sent flying into the barrier which crackled with blinding flashes of raw energy. The old man fell face forward into the pavement with his charred robes smoking.

"Master Touhou!"

Kurumu lunged towards the skirmish, wincing when her hands hit the invisible barrier.

"Tsukune! You have to fight it!"

The demon turned towards her and howled. Its eyes met hers and she felt the intense hatred. It sprang towards her, causing her to flinch and retreat a step. The outstretched talons promising death smashed against the barrier, staggering the demon to its knees.

Kurumu shook her head as the beast regained its composure. It stared angrily at her with crimson eyes, smashing at the barrier several times. It growled with fangs bared as it pressed its hands firmly against the spiritual barrier. Feeling emboldened, Kurumu stepped closer to that large hand.

"No. Give Tsukune back."

"Stubborn beast."

Touhou struggled back to his feet. As he continued to do so, Kurumu turned her attention back upon the snarling beast. She looked deep into his eyes, hoping to see something.

"In case you weren't listening, that's a powerful barrier that will attack anything trying to cross it."

"Master Touhou! I'm glad you're okay!"

"Start your sealing spell, Ms. Toujou."

"I will not help you kill Tsukune!"

"You are being irrational! Can you cast the spell without her, Ms. Toujou?"

"I could but-"

"Then start doing it. That beast is trying to claw its way out of this barrier to harm Ms. Kurono."

Kurumu cocked her head and the beast mimicked her. The ferocity of his aura diminished slightly.

"The ghoul never liked me."

The beast growled with renewed intensity, pushing harder against the barrier. Her heart fluttered as she recognized the desperation.

"Take the barrier down."

"Don't be stupid, girl. That ghoul is an extension of Alucard. It will destroy everything in its path."

"Alucard? What makes you think the ghoul is connected to Alucard?"

"How do you think Akasha got her Shinso blood, Ms. Sendou?"

Yukari gasped as Kurumu continued to peer deeply into the beast's eyes filled with rage.

"If that's true, then it should have been obvious that my Moka's blood would synchronize with Alucard."

"Nothing was obvious. We only had two Shinso vampires. Akasha and Alucard."

As important as that was, Kurumu was fixated on the creature before her. It seethed as it relentlessly pawed at the barrier.

"Take the barrier down."

"Are you stupid? That barrier is the only thing keeping that monster from tearing you apart."

Kurumu scowled at his certainty. She smashed her fists against the barrier, causing a rush of energy to lash out at her. The power tossed her back on her butt.

"Silly girl! That barrier can't tell friend from foe. Just stand there and keep that dumb thing occupied."

Kurumu whimpered, pushing herself back upright.

"This isn't the first time the ghoul has surfaced. I have beaten this beast back twice. That's why it hates me so much. It knows that I can do it again. I can reach Tsukune."

"This isn't the same as before, young lady. It won't take long before that ghoul will have access to a body far superior to that of a weak human. It will tear you apart in seconds."

Kurumu's lower lip trembled as she placed her hands painfully against the barrier again.

"No. I can do this. Please. Take the barrier down. I can bring Tsukune back."

The winged creature howled, digging its feet in with enough force to tear into the concrete. It pushed hard against the barrier with its hands almost touching hers.

"You are quite skilled for a succubus your age, Ms. Kurono. Rescuing all of us from the memory matrix is not something most succubi could do. I owe you a great debt."

"Then let me save him!"

"No. But you have bought me enough time to prepare the final needle."

Kurumu tore her gaze away from those crimson eyes to witness Touhou pulling out a needle.

"You're going to finish the operation?"

"If I can strike his heart, it will force Mr. Aono into a dormant state. Then we can seal him."

"He won't die, right?"

"Hard to say, Ms. Toujou. It mostly depends on if Ms. Kurono is correct about him not being dead."

"He's not dead. It would hurt so much more if that were true."

Touhou chuckled at her response, brandishing the needle.

"I admire your earnest heart, Ms. Kurono. Now. Mr. Aono! I have something for you!"

The beast whirled upon Touhou, lunging with talons outstretched. The elder darted out of the way as the concrete beneath him shattered. The ghoul kept its body low, clearly understanding the threat of the needle. Its attacks were fast and powerful, felling one of the trees in the island.

The ghoul lunged and the elder jumped out of the devastating blow which sundered the pavement. But before the elder could land, the ghoul shot up into him. The ghoul's shoulder smashed into Touhou's midsection and they twisted about in midair. The ghoul grabbed Touhou by the robes and batted his wings, diving down. He slammed the old man into the ground with enough force to crater it.

"Master Touhou!"

Yukari sobbed, wringing her hands.

"We have to stop this."

"But we can't do anything without taking down his barrier."

As the ghoul raised its hand to strike, Kurumu cried out.

"Tsukune! I'm over here!"

The ghoul let go of Touhou's robe, straightening up. It stalked over to face Kurumu. Its body remained tense as it reached the boundary. Kurumu looked up into its fierce eyes.

"Maybe if Kurumu can distract it."

He was there. She knew it.

"Lower the barrier, Yukari."

"I could but-"

"He won't kill me."

"Don't interfere, Ms. Sendou."

There was a sudden rush of power as Touhou stood up.

"If he won't let me use the needle, then the only thing left is to use my dimensional sword."

"But that would kill him!"

"I'd rather risk killing him than letting him loose. This matter is about protecting the world."

"No! I don't care about the world!"

"I'm sorry, Ms. Kurono. But this is the only way."

Kurumu bawled as she smashed her fists repeatedly against the barrier.

"I'll never forgive you! I'll never forgive you!"

Through blurred vision she watched Tsukune sidestep the dimensional sword which blasted rock and debris up into the barrier. The fragments disintegrated almost instantly.

"Stop that, you stupid girl! That barrier will tear you apart."

"I don't care! I have to save him!"

She pushed harder, pressing her body against the barrier. She felt it cut into her torso, tearing her halter top apart as she leaned in.

"He's dead! And if you keep this up, you'll be dead too!"

Kurumu dug in with her feet, ignoring the pain as she tried to force her way in. Her hands were bleeding profusely with multiple lacerations along her arms and torso. She clenched her teeth as she looked into the crimson eyes of the ghoul

"I would gladly die for him!"

And the barrier was gone. She stumbled forward, almost losing her footing entirely. She rushed by the startled Touhou straight into the arms of the beast. She felt its murderous intent, knowing it would crush her as she grabbed hold of its waist. She lifted up on her toes and pushed her lips against his.

She blasted into his mind in a heartbeat. In every direction and awareness she felt the leering presence of the ghoul. It laughed at her as she tried to find anything solid to hold onto. But there was nothing in this void. No memories. No dreams. No Tsukune.

"You've lost, whore. That weakling was destroyed the moment that old fool's needle shut down his mind. It was easy to devour him."

Kurumu looked into the millions of smug eyes. She spread out herself, trying to find an opening. But the ghoul was everywhere.

"What an amazing body that geezer has given me. I am free of the shackles of humanity and can finally use my whole power."

"Master Touhou is going to use the last needle and then you will be sealed again."

"It doesn't matter. Your beloved Tsukune is gone. I will be the only awareness that awakes."

Kurumu cocked her numerous heads to face the many ghouls.

"You're lying."

"I am in full control now. All of those false memories you planted in his head are being purged by this lovely technique. When I come out of my slumber, I will kill you and all of his precious friends."

Kurumu giggled, realizing there was only one place the ghoul could have trapped Tsukune.

"I suppose that I will have to destroy you first."

She slammed her infinite hands into the countless chests of every manifestation of the ghoul. It gasped in a multitude of voices, grabbing her forearm as the sea of crimson eyes went wide.

"No! Please!"

She clenched her fists about the hearts of the ghouls.

"Farewell, ghoul."

She squeezed the hearts and twisted them all. The ghouls all shrieked in a unified cacophony, drowning out everything. She pushed forward, shattering the sentience of the Shinso blood.

Kurumu stepped into the familiar room where she had shared years of false memories with Tsukune. His black desk had the silver CRT centered upon it while the white cushioned stool was tucked underneath it. A bookshelf was pressed up against the window facing the street.

Seated on the mattress of the bed was a young Tsukune, wearing a white shirt and gray sleep pants. The black headboard was pushed against the sliding door to his balcony. A black sheet was drawn over the mattress with two pillows placed along the headboard.

With a thought, Kurumu became her twelve year old self, wearing a simple white dress. She wandered over to the young boy whom was crying over a photo album held in his laps. He did not look up at her as she settled down beside him.

She knew what the album contained. They were the memories they had shared in this room. Each one was slowly vanishing from the album.

"It will be okay, Tsukune."

Tears fell down to strike against the album.

"I didn't know. I thought. I wanted. Not like this."

She reached over and placed an arm upon his shoulders. She leaned against him.

"I'm losing you. I didn't know."

"I'm not going anywhere, Tsukune. You don't need these memories to be my friend."

He sniffled as the last memory of them playing UNO on this page vanished. He turned the page and the next set of photographs faded.

"When Father died. When you said this was fake. I refused. If I lose these, you'll be gone forever."

Kurumu sighed, reaching to grab his hand before he could turn the next page.

"We just have to make real memories."

"You'll never forgive me. I'm so sorry."

She squeezed his hand firmly, giving his shoulder a slight shake.

"I already have. I will always love you. And I will be by your side as long as you want me there."

Tsukune wept as the album itself vanished from his lap.

"I just wanted everyone to be happy."

Kurumu pulled him into an embrace. He relaxed, resting his head on her shoulder.

"I know. And I want that to. We will both do our best. Okay?"

And as he murmured an affirmative, the world about them went dark.

Kurumu ran her fingers through Tsukune's hair with his head placed perfectly between her thighs. Her halter top was in tatters but at least her jeans had survived the ordeal. To avoid embarrassing situations, they had redressed Tsukune in his track suit.

"You're being too intimate with him."

Kurumu pouted at Yukari whom was waiting with her among the provisions at the main camp.

"I'm keeping him safe."

"You're the only threat to him."

"Cut her some slack, kid. She says it's over so have some faith."

Kurumu smiled graciously at Ginei. The werewolf was garbed in a white tee shirt and some track pants with a black stripe down the sides. It was better suited for training, though he seemed more interested hanging out in camp than training with his assigned partner. Poor Rubi was being neglected.

"Thank you, Ginei."

"No problem. Hopefully that comfortable pillow will be open for me once that spoiled kid wakes up."

Kurumu laughed, toying with Tsukune's locks.

"If you behaved yourself, I could allow it."

"Where's the fun in that?"

"If he wakes up, the first thing he will see is your massive mammaries."

"It's not a big deal, kid. That top still covers her nipples."

"Yea. I'll have to pitch this when we break for our real world lunch."

Yukari huffed indignantly.

"That's your own fault. It takes time to disable a barrier like that. You could have waited."

"You could have warned me."

"I was busy casting the spell!"

Kurumu sighed, feeling regret that she had ruined the last top mommy had bought for her.

"Ginei. Give me your shirt."

"Seriously?"

"Yukari must suspect that I'm trying to win him back."

"Well it would make me feel better if you were more covered up."

Ginei chuckled, pulling the tee shirt off to bare his toned chest and wolf head pendant. He shook the garment out, smirking at Kurumu as he approached.

"Are you absolutely sure? I've trained two whole days in this."

"I can handle your stink."

"Okay then. I'll trade."

Kurumu smirked, snatching the shirt out of his hands.

"I can wear this over my top."

It was more difficult to pull this thing on than she had anticipated. Her bosom was not agreeable with the tight fabric but she eventually got it down. It felt gross and reeked.

"Do you want my pants too?"

Kurumu laughed when he placed his hands at the hem about his waist. She shook her head.

"My jeans are fine."

"I thought you might want to see the whole package."

"Go sit over there, dummy."

Ginei chuckled as he strolled back over to where he had been.

"Tsukune is going to need to focus on training when he wakes up. He can't be distracted by you."

"Yukari. I'm not going to distract him."

"You gave his memories of your relationship back and have been mothering him ever since he passed out. How can we trust your claim that your body no longer responds to him?"

"Sheesh, Yukari. What more do you want me to do?"

"I don't know. Train with someone? Let somebody else take care of Tsukune."

Kurumu grimaced, not wanting to be absent when Tsukune did regain consciousness.

"Fine. Rubi. Do you want him?"

Rubi touched her breast with an uncertain look.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes. Since someone here refused to train with you."

"Oh? Is that an offer to take her place? I wouldn't mind training with you."

Kurumu smirked at his smug grin as Rubi made her way over to her side.

"I'm staying here for when he wakes up. I'll consider training after that."

Rubi knelt beside her, smiling nervously.

"How do we do this?"

"We just lift him slightly and place his head in your lap."

Kurumu slipped her hands beneath Tsukune's stiff body, easing him up by the shoulders. She nodded for Rubi to get closer. The witch scooted in so their thighs touched. Rubi reached down to help as Kurumu eased him over while wiggling out from beneath him. It only took a few seconds for Tsukune's head to be placed securely in the folds of Rubi's dark skirt.

"Does this mean I get my shirt back?"

Kurumu chuckled, walking over to Yukari's side.

"Nope. We can all admire your chiseled abs."

"Careful now, ladies. We might not have enough water for your bodies to handle that stimulation."

Kurumu smirked, settling down beside Yukari. She draped an arm across the girl's shoulders, causing the witch to grimace and pull away.

"You stink of him."

"Are you satisfied?"

"No. I still think you will try to make out with Tsukune if the chance presents itself."

"Do you think Ms. Kurono is lying to us?"

Yukari wagged her finger at Rubi.

"Just because she doesn't feel the same way doesn't mean she can't have babies with him. If I were in her shoes, I'd at least try it once or twice. Just to be sure."

Kurumu sucked in a deep breath. She cocked her head and smiled softly at Yukari.

"It's over, Yukari. His body is no longer compatible with mine. I know."

"But that isn't fair. I thought that you might want more kids. My Moka would have allowed it."

Kurumu nodded, certain that was true. But it was better this way. She could love Tsukune without any illusion of a better future. This was good enough.

"Mizore will let me help raise Hatsue. And I can support Tsukune. He will need help convincing Moka of his sincerity. She won't accept him giving up on Hatsue like this."

Yukari wrung her hands, glancing at Tsukune whom was being caressed by Rubi.

"But we both know he had to. He could never chase Hatsue after what we did."

"Kind of funny when you think about it. Making the outer girl into his baby."

Kurumu's eyes widened at Ginei's amusement.

"Who told you about that?!"

Yukari sighed dramatically as Ginei grinned wide.

"You were drunk and told everybody."

"Surprised you didn't realize this earlier. None of us batted an eye when you had that meltdown over Tsukune being in love with Hatsue."

Kurumu shook her head, feeling so stupid.

"Umizake is going to kill me."

"Everybody at the party understood that Hatsue is supposed to be Mr. Umizake's kid."

Kurumu sighed, unsure if that meant those students would keep quiet. Most of them could be convinced to stay silent in exchange for their own secrets to not get spread about the school. But guys like Fare and Sabaku had nothing worthy of being kept private. She hoped guys would not gossip.

"Has Mr. Aono woken up yet?"

Kurumu perked up at the sound of Touhou. The elder steadily approached them with Fang by his side. He was once again in his elderly guise.

"I believe he is becoming more aware. He was dreaming not so long ago."

"Oh? What was he dreaming about?"

Kurumu blushed. It was her fault for giving him back those memories. He was thoroughly enjoying them.

"Oh. Just harmless stuff."

"I must apologize, Ms. Kurono."

Kurumu frowned as the elder came over to sit between her and Yukari. Fang picked his way around the camp to kneel down next to Rubi whom was fussing with Tsukune's hair.

"What for?"

"I misunderstood your group dynamic. I thought that your group was centered about Ms. Akashiya."

"Everybody here loves Moka."

"Yes. I've pledged my body and soul to her."

Touhou chuckled at Yukari's declaration, pulling a pipe from his robe.

"As true as that may be, I think Ms. Akashiya is very much like her mother. She is crucial but not what keeps the group from falling apart."

Ginei snickered, thumbing at the boy resting in Rubi's lap.

"I'd say that Tsukune is more central than Moka. The snow princess and Moka don't get along."

Touhou laughed under his breath while lighting his pipe. He shook the flame from his fingertips before placing the end of the pipe into the corner of his mouth. He breathed in deep, filling the air about him with the sweet smell of honey.

"The legend claims that three dark lords defeated Alucard. But there were more than a dozen of us. I suppose there may have only been three of us left when Lord Nagoyaka penned that story in 1894."

"Lord Nagoyaka? The president of Fairy Tale from 1891 to 1901?"

"You know your history, Ms. Sendou. Lord Nagoyaka was only a young teen when the war with Alucard was raging. His father died two months before Alucard was finally defeated. A great man whom was in love with Akasha. We all were."

Touhou paused with another deep breath. He let out wisps of sickening sweet smoke.

"Most people would assume that Akasha was what held us all together. And while it was somewhat true that she brought us all in. It was another charming women whom kept us all in line."

"Shirayuki Ruri?"

"No, Ms. Kurono. Your Shirayuki is the first I've ever met from their clan. At one point we thought they might join us in our war against Alucard, but they withdrew after their leaders were brutally murdered."

"It's probably somebody we don't know about."

"Possibly, though there are rumors that she is still alive. Perhaps you have heard of Lady Hajinai?"

Kurumu gasped with wide eyed disbelief.

"The matchmaker?"

"So I've been told by Mrs. Shuzen. Mume was the glue holding us together. Constantly reminding us to set aside our differences. Keeping the peace between us."

"I didn't think she was involved."

"Of course she was. She erased a war which lasted for five years from the history books. And it wasn't just humans. Many monsters were relieved of the burden of the memory of that cruel war. It was… amazing. And terrifying. The power she could wield if she wanted to."

Kurumu frowned at his awed tone.

"The Headmaster has never talked about Ms. Hajinai."

"Unsurprising. He did betray her."

"What makes you say that?"

"Because he allowed Lord Kureshiba to purge the succubi race."

Yukari huffed at the elder's declaration.

"Aren't you guilty of the same?"

"No, Ms. Sendou. I had already returned to Hong Kong before the purge order was issued. And with the emergence of the Miao family, I was unable to return to Japan to put a stop to that madness. The best I could do was keep the purge from happening in Hong Kong."

"Hold up. You're telling me that this one guy was able to order the purge of a whole race?"

"Lord Kureshiba was a Fairy Tale president, you moron."

Ginei huffed at Yukari's reproach.

"Don't forget that I was raised with humans, kid. Fairy Tale history was not important to us."

"He was more than just a president. He was our friend."

Kurumu frowned at this revelation.

"Didn't this friend of yours also call for the extermination of the vampire race?"

"Yes. Alucard was a vampire and had rallied other vampires to his cause. All of our battles were against vampires. They were our enemies. Most of our followers wanted them all dead."

"But Akasha was a vampire."

"Akasha was an exception. Most of us saw it that way. But Mume loved Akasha perhaps more than the rest of us. It would not surprise me if she influenced the compromise which pardoned the vampires whom had sided with Alucard."

"So this Lord Kureshiba asked her to wipe everyone's memory of the war and then ordered her death."

Touhou sighed with a puff of smoke.

"Not exactly. He recognized how dangerous she was and she always refused his advances."

"You can't tell me that he called for genocide over being rejected."

Touhou breathed in deep with the scent of honey, relaxing his shoulders.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Sendou. But it very much looked that way. There were rumors that Mume had found a young man whom she could have children with. That she had fled to the countryside before the purge was ordered. Lord Kureshiba could not accept her belonging to someone else."

"Fear and jealousy."

Touhou nodded solemnly at Ginei.

"Sadly true. Akasha had vanished shortly after the pardons were issued. Before the purge. The others, including Mikogami, refused to go against Lord Kureshiba. A unified Fairy Tale was more important than one dangerous girl whom thought too much with her heart."

"I can't believe the Headmaster did that."

Yukari huffed at Kurumu.

"I'm not surprised. Forcing others to sacrifice themselves for his ideals has always been his forte."

Touhou exhaled a thick cloud of smoke which caused Kurumu and Yukari to cough.

"Mume was a willful young woman. It was her idea to expunge the war. I won't say that she deserved what happened, but she made it too easy to be seen as a threat. That boy, Nagoyaka, had no idea how his father died. It was through Mikogami's playful banter about our friend's demise that the legend of the dark lords defeating Alucard came about."

"Figures. He would take credit."

"He didn't, Ms. Sendou. If you know the legend, none of the dark lords are actually named."

"Maybe not, but I bet Lord Nagoyaka believed the Headmaster was one of those lords."

"He most likely believed his father was one as well. A pity that I never met the young man while he was president. I have always been curious whom he thought the third dark lord was."

"For someone whom has fought against the presence of Fairy Tale in Mononoke for decades, I'm surprised that the Headmaster was on such good terms with Fairy Tale leadership."

Touhou paused at Yukari's comment. He sucked in through his pipe with smoke escaping his lips.

"Mikogami founded his school in 1903. Lord Nagoyaka's cousin, Ms. Umihaba, was one of his first teachers along with that woman you call Ms. Hitori whom was Suzaku Hiko to us."

"I wasn't aware of that Ms. Umihaba was tied to a Fairy Tale president."

"Not many would know, Ms. Sendou. Yokai Academy was not recognized as an official school by Fairy Tale for many years. By the time they had enough students to be 'official', Mikogami was so done with Fairy Tale that he hardly cared for their approval."

"The housemother was one of the school's first teachers. She mentioned that Baratoge and Chikara were built in 1920."

"I won't pretend to know everything about Mikogami's beloved school, Ms. Kurono. I have never truly forgiven him for what he allowed to happen in Japan. In truth, I was about to welcome death when it looked like the war between my family and the Miao family had come to an end. But these reminders about Alucard still being dormant plagued me. I would like to see this matter finally come to an end."

"I think he is stirring."

Kurumu perked up at Rubi's announcement. Sure enough, Tsukune made a groan as his eyelids slowly opened. Rubi's hands found his shoulders, helping the boy up into a seated position.

"There you are, Mr. Aono. How do you feel?"

Tsukune frowned at Touhou's greeting. He winced, touching his temple.

"Where am I?"

"You are still in the mirror world, Mr. Aono."

"You've been sleeping for almost two whole days now."

Tsukune grimaced at Rubi's addition. He absently touched his stomach.

"That explains why I'm starving."

Kurumu laughed at his expression.

"We couldn't help you out there. It was scary enough trying to give you water. I was worried that you wouldn't swallow."

"A fear all men have with their women."

Kurumu frowned at Ginei's lecherous thoughts which accompanied his remark. She had no clue what he thought was funny about that.

"Is that Ginei's shirt?"

Kurumu blushed at Tsukune's inquiry. She absently touched her bosom.

"Yes. My shirt-"

"Got destroyed in the middle of our passionate lovemaking. It was my duty to clothe her."

Kurumu picked up a water bottle and chucked it at the grinning werewolf. He deftly caught it.

"Thank you, my love."

"Shut up!"

"The dummy's top got wrecked by trying to push through the barrier before I could take it down."

Tsukune sucked in a deep breath. He closed his eyes, wincing. He nodded after a moment.

"Yea. I vaguely remember that."

"I was reckless."

"Did we kiss?"

Kurumu blushed deeper, looking down at the ground.

"Don't think too much about it! That was the fastest way for me to dive into your mind and subdue the ghoul. Think of it like CPR!"

She looked up, hoping she had not ruined his desire for Moka. His soft eyes met hers and he smiled.

"I lost all of those memories you made for us."

"You remember that?"

"I remember losing them. I don't remember what they were about."

Yukari sighed dramatically.

"That was not the only thing you lost."

"What do you mean by that?"

Rubi giggled, drawing Kurumu's attention back up. The witch lovingly caressed Tsukune's shoulder.

"She is talking about your body, Mr. Aono. You must feel different now."

"Other than the massive headache, I guess that I do feel stronger. Lighter."

"Don't worry, Tsukune. I felt the same way after my stint in prison. You can still live a full and healthy life as a eunuch."

Yukari busted out in giggles though Kurumu was as lost as Rubi was over the meaning of that word. Fang politely turned his head aside to chuckle which only made Kurumu feel worse about her ignorance.

"I don't know what he thinks is funny, but that is not what happened, Tsukune."

Yukari snickered, shaking her head.

"Tsukune. Check your right wrist."

Tsukune lifted up his right hand. He stared dumbly at it for a long moment before his eyes widened.

"The holy lock! It's gone!"

Rubi grabbed the startled young man firmly by his shoulders.

"It's okay. You don't need it now."

"What about the ghoul?"

"The ghoul has been destroyed."

Tsukune clenched his fists upon hearing Touhou's calm answer.

"I didn't know that your operation would do that."

"The operation doesn't do that. I was always relying on you to have enough control over that Shinso blood to come out of the operation with your own mind."

Tsukune shivered, looking down at his hands.

"But I remember losing control."

"Yes. The second to last needle separated your mind from your body. At that moment, the ghoul made a last ditch effort to control your body. I was at a loss on how to correct the situation, but Ms. Kurono here defied my precautions, risking everything to dive into your mind and crush the will of the ghoul."

"So she destroyed the ghoul."

Kurumu blushed, waving a hand dismissively.

"Only what was left of it. It was so weak from all of our efforts to acclimate you to becoming a vampire."

"Thank you, Kurumu. I owe you my life."

Kurumu shivered at his sincerity.

"You owe me nothing. You would have done the same for me."

"I know. That does not diminish what you did."

Kurumu looked up into his soft eyes. She bit her lower lip and swallowed nervously.

"I love you."

He blushed and laughed nervously, glancing down.

"Uh… yes. I'm… sorry?"

Kurumu threw her hands up in a placating manner.

"It's okay! I didn't say that you were the only man I love."

Ginei slapped his thigh loudly with a nod.

"Exactly. I've convinced Kurumu to embrace polygamy."

"Can I have a serious conversation without you making a sex joke?"

"Hey now. Polygamy is no joke."

"It is somewhat common for people of great importance. My Grandfather had three wives to keep up business relations."

"Fang. No. You are not allowed to chime in."

Tsukune chuckled, placing his hand on top of Rubi's.

"Will you be okay, Kurumu? Will you be happy like this?"

Kurumu smiled, feeling her heart swell up with warmth. He wanted her happy. And she wanted him happy. Months ago, it had hurt so much, realizing that this was the kind of love someone had for a sibling. Now it was enough.

"Yea. I'm no longer drawn to you."

"Drawn to me?"

"She means that your body has changed so much that she can't have babies with you."

Tsukune nodded thoughtfully at Yukari's explanation.

"So it is back to how it was when I first attacked you as a ghoul. When I broke your body."

Kurumu breathed in deep and grimaced. She wished this old man would take that pipe of his and go sit somewhere else.

"No. We're not back there. I feel like a huge weight has been lifted from my heart."

"I don't understand."

Kurumu shrugged with a reluctant smile.

"I should have never forced my love to be all or nothing. You were right about that. I was hurting my own heart, imposing such a narrow view of love. So from now on, I will love you. Without any expectations."

"But what about your boyfriend?"

"I'm not breaking up with Nijiro. I love you but I want to love Nijiro too. Okay?"

Tsukune laughed nervously, reaching back with his free hand to rub his neck.

"Yea. I want you happy, Kurumu. I don't know much about Mr. Amesuki though. I'm sorry. I should have tried harder to know him."

Kurumu laughed out loud, placing her palms on the ground and leaning back. She stretched her legs out, feeling uncomfortable in these jeans while kneeling.

"That's fine, Tsukune. I can't claim that I know him that well either. I need to work on that."

"I still say that you're a fool, Tsukune. You better make things work with Moka now that Kurumu has fully accepted her role as your sister."

Kurumu snickered at Ginei's remark, glancing at Tsukune.

"A clingy sister. I'm going to hug you and all of my friends whenever I feel like it."

Tsukune chuckled, guiding Rubi's hand off his shoulder.

"While I doubt Moka would mind that, I don't know if Mr. Amesuki would feel as comfortable."

"Then I will make him comfortable with it. I can't let him dictate whom I can and can't be friends with."

"That's what I said when you let him force you into quitting my club."

"Even if you were right, I think leaving the club was good for me."

Ginei sighed at her quick response, nodding.

"I know. Tashikana needs you more and the choir is a good bunch of girls."

"I would hug you too, Ginei, but your hands have a tendency to wander."

"What? No love for me when I've been such a good big brother to you?"

"A big brother that likes touching my tits and ass."

"I hate to say it, Kurumu, but you're too damn sexy for appropriate behavior. Maybe if you were more like Lady Otonashi or Yukari here, I could keep my hands in check."

"You are never hugging me."

Ginei chuckled at Yukari's swift remark.

"I'm saying that I could never see you like a little sister, Kurumu. So don't be hugging me unless you want something grabbed."

Kurumu sighed, wishing this silly guy would just be nice.

"I think I understand your feelings, Kurumu. I will always love Hatsue. I know this. And if I'm not involved with raising her, I might never truly see her as my daughter."

He paused with a deep breath.

"But I would be seventeen years older than her. Maybe a month or two less than that but that's a whole lifetime. It's not about waiting for her. It's about respecting what would be best for her."

Yukari huffed indignantly.

"How do you know what is best for her?"

"I don't. But there are people whom you love whom you can't be with. I recognize that love isn't about transcending all boundaries. Sometimes it's about respecting them."

"Is that why nobody takes me seriously? Because you all think I'm better with someone my own age?"

Tsukune laughed nervously.

"I think you're a special case, Yukari. While I agree with that sentiment, I realize that you don't have any contact with boys your age. And I have no idea if that contact will happen before we graduate."

"It won't."

Tsukune flinched.

"Well… Tora often says that high school relationships aren't important."

"Yet all of my friends are in them. You are chasing my Moka. Kurumu has her guy and Mizore has her fiancé. Even the dumb wolf here has a girlfriend."

"And I have my darling Chiyu."

Yukari glowered at Fang's addition with a shake of her head.

"I do appreciate Tora's sentiment. But this isn't me choosing to be single. I simply am."

"Why are you wanting to be in a relationship?"

"Because that's happiness, Tsukune. I know my parents don't always get along, but being together makes them happy. I want to be happy."

"Apologize for the interruption, but whom told you that you weren't happy?"

Yukari regarded Touhou with a thoughtful expression.

"Nobody. But I can't be happy. I don't meet the definition."

Touhou chuckled with a puff of smoke which caused Kurumu to cough.

"Here we are discussing the definition of happiness while training to fight an ancient evil."

"I guess it does sound silly. When shall my training begin?"

Touhou took the pipe out of his mouth and gestured with it towards Tsukune.

"You and I will not be coming back to the mirror world for the afternoon session."

"Why not?"

"Because I need to make a new holy lock for you and I can't do that inside here."

"Why do I need a new holy lock? You said that the ghoul was destroyed."

"I've explained this to the others but I don't mind repeating myself. The simple fact is that Ms. Akashiya most likely will be held in the proximity of Alucard's true body. When you and your friends go to rescue her, there is a very distinct possibility that your Shinso blood will synchronize with Alucard."

"What?! How?!"

"Because all Shinso blood comes from Alucard. If Ms. Akashiya's unsealed blood can rouse him, the same might be true for yours. We cannot risk that."

"Can I also sit out the afternoon session?"

Touhou chuckled at Yukari's request, stuffing the pipe back in his mouth.

"Don't be foolish, Ms. Sendou. The rest of you need to be at the top of your game. While Alucard's body remains dormant, Mr. Aono must fight with much of his powers sealed away. You will have to cover this handicap until it becomes irrelevant."

"What do you mean by irrelevant?"

Touhou chuckled at Kurumu's frown.

"I mean if Alucard is fully awake, no point in keeping the poor boy sealed. I will train you as best I can in both situations, Mr. Aono. I hope that you are prepared."

Tsukune grinned broadly, clenching his fist.

"Yes. I'm prepared to get Moka back."

"In that case, I suggest we leave now. I need a decent meal if I'm going to be making a holy lock."

"Wait? Don't we have two more days before we break for the real world lunch?"

Touhou chuckled, turning his back on them and starting off.

"Yes. Good luck with that, youngsters. Come with me, Mr. Aono. I need you to make that holy lock."

Kurumu pouted as Tsukune sheepishly followed after the elder. She wanted to leave too.