"I believe we will have to stop here for Mr. Abe's sake."

Abe slipped out of his desk as Ms. Shuzen closed her notebook upon the podium. He shouted his thanks as he hurried towards the door. The teacher was wearing a white blazer over a periwinkle blouse. A black belt with a silver buckle was fished through the loops of her white slacks.

"Be quiet in the hall."

Abe had already left the room by the end of her sentence, causing several students to chuckle. Kurumu opened up her schoolbag, exchanging her algebra notebook for her chemistry one.

"Ms. Shuzen. What do you think about the article in the paper yesterday?"

Ms. Shuzen glanced at Senyou's snaggletooth grin.

"Which article are you asking about?"

"The big one that mentioned how your whole family was killed by the treacherous vice president."

Ms. Shuzen huffed, tucking her things beneath her arm.

"Many perished, including six family elders and our beloved Lady Gyokuro. But not my whole family."

"Sounds like you have a big family."

"We do. Lord Issa has returned to help restructure things. My dear brother, one of the surviving family elders, will be assisting him in that."

"Your brother's a family elder? How old are you?"

"Seventy five. If you have nothing further to ask, I shall be moving on to my next lecture."

Kumiko shook her head as Ms. Shuzen headed for the door. She cast an admonishing look at Senyou.

"I can't believe you. So rude."

"What? She looks amazing for seventy five."

Kurumu giggled, getting up from her chair.

"Ms. Shuzen. Can I accompany you?"

The teacher paused at the doorway with a frown.

"What for?"

"Well we do have lab next period so we are heading that way anyways."

"Do as you please but keep it quiet in the hall."

Kurumu smirked as the teacher left the classroom. Many of her classmates stood up from their desks, including Juri and Yukari.

"I have no idea why you offered to tag along with her if you're just heading to the lab early."

Kurumu shrugged as she drifted over to Yukari, prompting the witch to head for the front door.

"Just a whim. I should see if I can have that chat with Mr. Yokei."

Yukari snorted as they passed through the open door with Juri on their heels.

"Mr. Yokei has lectures second and third period. You're better off catching him after Mr. Hakuru's lab."

"But he keeps running his lab to the bell. I would be late for Mrs. Takizawa's lecture."

"I can tell her what you're up to. This way you will have the time for a serious discussion with Mr. Yokei."

Kurumu considered Yukari's offer as they neared the closed front door of class three where Ms. Shuzen was waiting. She shook her head, slowing her step.

"I can ask Mrs. Takizawa if I can do that tomorrow. It's not like this is some emergency."

Juri giggled as Kurumu came to a halt beside the teacher. The sprite stopped to join her while Yukari and their classmates continued on.

"I think someone forgets that we have a history quiz tomorrow."

Kurumu rolled her eyes, making a shooing gesture.

"Next week then. Now go. I have something to ask Ms. Shuzen."

Juri drawled out a response as she resumed her walk.

"You girls fail to understand what it means to be quiet in the hall."

Kurumu pouted, turning her attention fully upon Ms. Shuzen.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Shuzen."

"How exactly can I help you, Ms. Kurono."

"Kokoa got a letter last weekend from her father. I understand that Lord Issa is trying to convince his brother to become a family elder."

"Mr. Iroki refused the initial offer to take his father's place. He regards the slaughter at Lord Tsuyosei's home a failure on Lord Issa's part."

"But Lord Issa-"

"- is the Head of our family, Ms. Kurono. I anticipate Mr. Iroki will challenge Lord Issa for that role. It was always his aspiration to hold that title but Lord Issa earned that honor in 64. Mr. Iroki refused to accept that and left the family, though we still occasionally see him at unofficial family outings."

Kurumu nodded thoughtfully, wondering if this older brother was capable of defeating Lord Issa.

"Will Lord Issa be able to find new family elders?"

The teacher paused with her crimson eyes going distant.

"Some, yes. Finding a reputable relative of Lord Tsuyosei might be difficult. And many of Lord Mikoto's clan don't even live in Japan. Most that did were at that Christmas party."

In the pause that followed, the bell sounded the end of the period. The teacher's gaze became clear.

"My brother was going to help Lord Issa locate Mr. Yuusei, Lord Yoshiro's third son. Mr. Yuusei cut ties with the family right after Lord Issa married Lady Gyokuro."

"What happened to Lord Yoshiro's second son?"

The front door to class three was drawn open and the diminutive Mrs. Sunao skulked out. The woman murmured an apology, clutching her portfolio to her chest. The literature teacher was garbed in a gray jacket and gray slacks with a white blouse beneath.

"That would be Lord Sosuke. He was with his father at the Christmas party."

Kurumu felt like she should have known that as the teacher entered the classroom. Despite not having anything else to say, she followed the vampire inside.

"Ms. Kurono. Could you use your powers to get this creep to go back to his desk?"

Hiboshi was seated in the front row desk closest to the door. The small kitsune was wearing the sweater vest just like her buxom friend sitting behind her. Irewata smiled and waved as Hiboshi crossed her arms below the swell of her modest bosom. She scowled with soft yellow eyes at her antagonist.

"Morning, Ms. Kurono."

Ikazuchi Inuki grinned at Kurumu with a spark in his electric blue eyes. The raiji with short, platinum hair was the nephew of the mayor of Uchimori and had joined the baseball team which his older cousin had been the starting pitcher for. He had left his green jacket open.

"Are you bothering Hiboshi again?"

Ikazuchi smirked, turning to regard the kitsune with the auburn curls.

"I was only offering Mini Minx some candy."

The young man in the next front row desk snickered. That was Tomisaki Saichiro whom had gone to the junior high in Aranoiji with Hiboshi and Irewata. Tomisaki had roguish russet locks, bright blue eyes and was sporting the red tie with his closed jacket. He had joined the cheerleader squad.

"He told her to get it out of his pants herself."

"I don't need any candy. I'm sixteen years old."

Ikazuchi patted a slightly off center bulge in his pants.

"Don't worry. This hard candy is age appropriate."

Unless there was something strange with his anatomy, that bulge was definitely in his pocket. Snickering, Kurumu regarded the quiet Arashimideru Maihime sitting at the desk behind Tomisaki. The sylph had silvery white hair styled in two tufted tails. She had the bow tied at the collar with the school jacket.

"You should do something about this degenerate, Arashimideru."

The tennis girl lazily turned her cerulean eyes upon the young man she had gone to junior high with.

"I've never seen this degenerate before."

Ikazuchi gasped with feigned indignation.

"Just because I'm good with kids, doesn't make me a degenerate."

Hiboshi snarled, hopping out of her chair. She poked Ikazuchi in the shoulder.

"I'm not a little kid. I'm one forty six which is taller than Mrs. Sunao. I'm also more endowed than her."

Kurumu giggled, thankful that Mrs. Sunao had not heard that. It was not like Hiboshi was lying.

"I recommend using the restroom if you must. I intend to start the lecture as soon as the bell sounds."

As some students got up to heed Ms. Shuzen's suggestion, Ikazuchi cupped his chin and regarded the fuming kitsune with a surprisingly thoughtful look.

"I'd wager that you're stuffing that bra."

Hiboshi gasped, immediately cupping herself with a deliberate shake.

"These are all natural!"

The dark haired Izanai passed by Kurumu. She nodded at Natsudera and Chousei as they approached, noting that Suzume and Hatoko had gotten up. Hatoko had been in the desk beside Tora while Suzume had been in the front row. The pair quickly made their way over to Kurumu.

"I see that Mr. Ikazuchi is up to his usual antics."

"It's not strange for a girl to stuff her bra. Right, Ms. Arashimideru?"

The look Arashimideru gave the grinning boy was hard to read.

"They are natural, Mr. Ikazuchi. I've seen them myself and they are just as sensitive as before."

Hiboshi turned scarlet at Irewata's testimony. The kitsune whirled about with her three fox tails kicking up the back of her skirt. Her black lace panties were exposed as Hiboshi wagged a finger at Irewata.

"Nobody needed to know that!"

Ikazuchi chortled with a leering expression on his face. He cocked his head for a better view, prompting Kurumu to swat his arm with the back of her hand.

"Go back to your desk already."

"Your tails are out, Ms. Hiboshi."

Hiboshi's hands immediately reached behind her. She frantically tried to push the garment down as she twirled about. Her tails rapidly diminished, disappearing back up into the confines of her skirt.

"This dork tries to embarrass Ms. Hiboshi at least once a day to get her tails to come out."

Tomisaki snickered, nodding at Suzume's remark.

"And where he fails, Irewata succeeds. I swear that he has her on a payroll."

The blushing Hiboshi scowled at Tomisaki, smoothing her skirt down.

"Haruhi is just stupid."

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to."

"Once I get used to having three tails, your fun will end."

"It's like he's obsessed with seeing her panties."

Ikazuchi shrugged at Suzume's comment.

"Nothing wrong with seeing a girl's panties."

Hatoko snorted, drifting towards the door.

"Belongs in prison. Leaving ya behind."

"Hold up. I was curious what Kurumu was here for."

Kurumu grinned at Suzume, gesturing in Tora's direction. The sphinx was sitting at the center desk of the second row. The forgettable blond behind Tora was Dokiniji Hana. The dryad was from Shizukana and had joined the ikebana club.

"I was just going to visit with Tora."

"Oh. Okay. We'll chat later then?"

"Yea. Maybe in gym if we aren't too busy."

Suzume giggled, darting over to the door. Hatoko rolled her eyes, heading out.

"Ya waste too much time."

Suzume drawled out an empty apology as the pair slipped out of view.

"Unless you plan to use the restroom, go back to your desk, Mr. Ikazuchi."

Ikazuchi sighed heavily at the teacher's instruction, starting a slow walk towards the windows.

"Fine. I got what I came for."

"You need to stop speaking up when he's around me, Haruhi. Or am I going to stop being your friend."

Irewata pouted as Hiboshi sat down heavily in her chair.

"I'm sorry, Netsuki. I thought that you wanted him to know your boobs were real."

"Just shut up."

Kurumu giggled, drifting by Tomisaki's desk to the next one over. The occupant was Kamitsuku and at the desk behind him was Tsukune. She gestured at the boys.

"Why don't you do something about that pervert's actions?"

Kamitsuku shrugged, glancing over at Ikazuchi. The raiji had settled into the chair of the front row desk by the windows. Behind him was Yougan Kurai, a salamander from Moegara. Yougan had joined the basketball team and often joked around with Ikazuchi during class.

"Yea, well, I don't think I'm allowed to have my camera in class."

Kurumu was too far away to swat him on the top of his broad head.

"I wasn't suggesting you to take pictures of it."

"I'm just an innocent bystander. I leave keeping the peace up to our fearless class representative or resident PSC member."

Tora huffed, jotting something in her notebook.

"We have scolded Mr. Ikazuchi several times but he doesn't care. He's already spending most of his free time in the disciplinary room."

Tsukune chuckled softly, nodding.

"Probably because he doesn't mind missing practice with the baseball season over."

"Enjoying your time in the choir?"

Kurumu grinned at Kamitsuku.

"I am. Speaking of that, you should help out with the yearbook."

"Ms. Sangi said they didn't need more cameras."

"As if. One of my seniors didn't even make it to practice yesterday. If you hadn't noticed, the pictures are running almost an hour longer after school."

Kamitsuku shrugged nonchalantly.

"I hadn't noticed. I suppose that I can swing by the auditorium after school instead of going home."

"You should. Whom was in the desk in front of Tora?"

"That would be Mr. Izanai."

Kurumu nodded, sauntering into the aisle between Kamitsuku and Tora. She spied Mizore sitting in the back row by the window. Goto had claimed the desk in front of Mizore.

Her eyes swept across the class, noting all of the empty desks. Burumoto and Tamaishi should have been in here but the two big guys from soccer were absent. So was Yamazaru from judo and Takurami. She wondered if those guys had all slipped out the back.

"Your class looks just as empty as mine."

"Yea. Most of us sat in the front two rows."

Kurumu grinned, turning her attention back to Kamitsuku.

"Have you been looking after Tsukune?"

"Nope. He's too busy chasing my tail lights."

"I was training in a dimension that stretched days into months. My racing skills are a little rusty."

"I wasn't asking about video games."

Kamitsuku snickered, looking up at her with his ochre eyes.

"I know. He's had dinner with us the last three nights."

"Yea. We saw you with Mr. Amesuki last night."

Kurumu smiled softly with a tinge of sadness. There had been a time that she would have known in an instant if Tsukune was in the room. Now that her body no longer craved him, he was just another man fueling her core that required male attention. Short of him indulging in detailed sexual fantasies, she would have to try feeling his specific attention.

"You should move on to your next class, Ms. Kurono."

Kurumu laughed at the teacher's suggestion. She glanced at the clock above the chalk board, confirming that the break was halfway over.

"You should join us for lunch, Kurumu."

Kurumu paused at Tora's offer.

"I could but Yukari made a bento for me."

"She could come to. Mrs. Takizawa had something for Tsukune that you might be interested in."

"I don't think she would be."

"What's this about?"

Tsukune was hesitant but Tora gestured at Kurumu while looking at him. He sighed.

"It's my student file. The one that the Headmaster told me about. My family lineage."

Kurumu grinned brightly, retreating back to the front of the class.

"Of course I would be interested in that. I'll see you at lunch."

Turning about on her heel, Kurumu skipped to the open door. She slipped out into the hall, clutching her notebook to her bosom as she started towards the chemistry lab. Several students were walking towards her, including the massive Burumoto Ushio and Tamaishi. Burumoto had come from one of the villages of Hokkaido. He had dark hair and ruby studs lining his ear lobes.

The duo were chatting with Munemoshi Kenji. Munemoshi towered over the pair. He had gone to junior high in Akichi with Tamaishi but had joined the basketball team. It was amazing that there were school jackets sized for these behemoths.

The girl ahead of these brutes with her pale blond tresses gracing her ample bosom was Nomura Airi from the track team. The tengu from Hateshinai was a step behind a girl with hair as black as oil which nearly touched the floor. That was Orochi Maki from Bokuseki. Orochi was Kurumu's partner in home economics. The gorgon had gone to junior high with Hikari and had joined the archery team.

Orochi offered a wave before the two girls ducked through the open back door of class four which was their homeroom. Kurumu arrived a moment later, smiling at Burumoto. The big guy whom had been her first admirer at Yokai Academy smirked as Tamaishi and Munemoshi exchanged a brief farewell.

"That boyfriend is too boring for you."

"Oh hush. Nijiro is a great guy."

"Hey, Kurumu!"

Kurumu turned her attention away from the big guys as they passed by. Kagami was slowing her stride. A dark haired guy with glasses strolled by Kagami, entering the classroom without hesitation.

"Are you paired with this guy?"

Kurumu gestured at the young man strutting towards them with confidence. Hitomure Satoshi flashed a fanged grin as Kagami glanced back at him. The inugami from Ashikantai was on the baseball team.

"Yea. Mr. Hakuru's weird alphabetical order got me stuck with him and Mr. Ishiyama."

"And she likes it. She was just too embarrassed to give me chocolates."

Kagami snickered, shaking her head as she entered the room.

"In your dreams."

"I was missing some from you too."

Kurumu giggled, waving a dismissive hand at him. He chuckled, entering the classroom as Kurumu gazed down the hall. Behind a forgettable dark haired guy was Anko Kaori and Amesuki Manami. Anko was one of Ishikure's friends. The gnome had her obsidian locks styled up in a pair of handlebars hanging over her ears. Blue rimmed aviators rested upon her dainty nose.

"Manami! Have a second?"

Manami looked so much like her brother. Her periwinkle eyes brightened up as she quickened her step. Her wavy blond tresses brushed her shoulders.

"Ms. Kurono! I saw you having dinner last night with my brother."

Kurumu smiled as the guy slipped into the classroom without a word though she had felt him admiring her looks like so many other guys did.

"Yea. It wasn't as romantic as we hoped but better than nothing."

Manami giggled as Anko strolled by them, nodding at Kurumu as she passed.

"What did you want?"

Kurumu noticed Natsudera and Chousei further down the hall, returning from their bathroom break.

"I just wanted to make sure that you tell your parents about our spring break plans. Your brother might forget with him being so busy."

"Sure. Though you could have told me about this at lunch."

Kurumu smiled apologetically, holding a hand up.

"I'm sorry, Manami, but I can't have lunch with you today."

"But you didn't have lunch with us last week."

Kurumu flinched, realizing this was true. She had ate with Suzume's group last Thursday instead since Asuka had protested in home economics about neglecting her group because of the Friday assembly.

"Something came up and I have to be with the PSC today."

"Are you still worrying over Ms. Bakudai not wanting you in the library?"

Kurumu chuckled at Manami's pout. The librarian did make Kurumu feel uncomfortable.

"It's not that. I promise."

"I never get to see you these days."

"You see me in gym."

Manami's pout was a force to be reckoned with. Kurumu waved her free hand in a placating manner.

"I promise to eat with you and your friends in the library next week."

"I guess. Have fun in your chemistry lab."

Kurumu snorted, doubting that was possible.

"And I will have to wrap things up here. That study sheet covers all that will be on tomorrow's quiz. There should be no excuses for any failing grades."

Kurumu sounded her understanding along with her classmates as Mrs. Takizawa closed her portfolio.

"If you have any questions, you can ask Ms. Sendou or Mr. Ichida. I have also given a copy of this study sheet to Mrs. Sunao so she may assist you during your last period if she has that as a study hall."

Mrs. Takizawa grinned, stepping out from behind the podium. The teacher was rocking a pinstripe, long sleeved blouse with a navy pleated skirt.

"Have a lovely rest of the day."

Kurumu leaned over to open up her schoolbag as the teacher left the classroom.

"Are you sure that you won't join us, Yukari?"

Yukari huffed, making no move to put away her study sheet.

"Ms. Hineri already warned us that it might be too crowded. And since it would be awkward to keep our lunch date in the library, I will check on Rubi."

Having put her study sheet away, Kurumu slipped off her chair and turned about. She snatched her jacket off the back of her chair, thrusting her arms through the sleeves.

"Suit yourself. Need help with Nerume?"

Satsuki sighed as the drowsy kirin leaned against her.

"No. I'm tempted to push her back into chair."

Kurumu snickered, feeling around inside the pockets of her jacket to confirm her lunch card, keys and phone were all present. The bell sounded the official start of lunch.

"Well I'm going to get a head start with Kumiko. See you soon."

Kumiko frowned at the use of her name as Kurumu pranced over to her. The jorougumo rolled her eyes, starting for the door.

"Today is our official PSC meeting, Ms. Kurono. Behave yourself."

Kurumu smirked as they exited the class a few steps behind Ichida. The hallway was lively with students as several teachers had let class out early to compensate for the lunch hour. Only the doors to class three appeared to still be closed, promising a long English lecture today.

"How is Lady Hineri doing?"

"You could always check on her yourself if you care that much."

Kurumu smiled apologetically as the front door to class three opened. The grinning Mr. Nagamushi strolled out, wearing a navy suit and sunglasses.

"I guess that's true but I never know if I would just be bothering her."

Kumiko shrugged as they passed by the teacher. Tomisaki and Izanai slipped out the front door, joining the throng of students making their way to the lunch line downstairs.

"She tends to be grouchy more often than not. Being pregnant isn't the most comfortable experience."

Kurumu imagined it would have difficult moments but had not heard a single complaint from Mizore. They arrived at the open front door right after Hiboshi exited with Irewata and Arashimideru. Kurumu poked her head inside and waved.

"Tora! Over here!"

Tora nodded, having already gotten up. She turned and made a beckoning gesture for Mizore. Tsukune and Kamitsuku sauntered over to Kurumu's location.

"Mizore doesn't seem to mind being pregnant."

"Maybe pregnancy is easier on some races."

Kamitsuku chuckled as he paused in the doorway.

"What sort of conversation is this?"

Kurumu made a shooing gesture.

"It's about Mizore. Go have your lunch."

"Yea, yea. See you after lunch, Tsukune."

Tsukune gave an obligatory response, remaining at Kurumu's side. They shared a smile, saying nothing as Suzume, Hatoko, Natsudera, Chousei, Dokiniji, Yougan and Ikazuchi all passed through the open door.

"You guys are still here?"

Kurumu laughed, nodding at Satsuki whom had strolled up with Nerume latched to her side.

"Yea. Waiting on Mizore."

"You look tired."

Tsukune's comment was directed at Mizore whom had arrived at the door with Tora. The snow girl did have an exhausted aura about her. The temperature actually went up from her presence.

"Yea. She's a little too lively today. I might have to pee."

Kurumu laughed as Kumiko started down the hall, prompting them all to follow.

"Well the bathroom is on the way."

"I'm not sticking around for a bathroom break."

Kurumu cast a frown back at Satsuki.

"It's not like we have to wait in line for our lunch."

"Which I think too many of you are abusing."

"I'm sorry for the inconvenience, Ms. Hineri."

Tora waved a dismissive hand at Tsukune's apology.

"Never mind her. Each PSC member is allowed one guest."

"Mr. Umizake! Your fiancée is in need of assistance!"

Kurumu smirked at Kumiko's announcement to the young man waiting for them at the crossover which ran between the back doors of classes five and eight. It took a few seconds for Kumiko to reach him. The jorougumo stopped with the rest of the group following suit.

"She needs a bathroom break. Will you wait with her while we go on ahead?"

Umizake draped an arm over Mizore's shoulders, tugging the girl close to his side. Mizore sighed, resting her head against his shoulder.

"Anything for my beloved."

Kumiko resumed walking along the balcony instead of heading down the stairs at the crossover like most students. There were two more crossovers further down this hall with stairs facing the cafeteria. The next one was in line with the restrooms while the last one was near the front door of Mr. Hakuru's lab.

"How are you feeling?"

"Exhausted. Hard to concentrate with her doing cartwheels."

Kurumu giggled at the image of a baby doing gymnastics in the womb.

"She must be eager to get out here."

Mizore smiled wearily.

"She needs to settle down."

Kumiko reached the next crossover by the opening for the girls' restroom. The jorougumo drifted to the right, starting down the stairs with Tora only a few steps behind her. Tsukune hesitated at the top of the stairs, grinning back at them.

"We'll see you in a bit."

Umizake sounded an affirmative, withdrawing his arm as Kurumu drifted over to Tsukune's side. Mizore shuffled through the opening as the young man came to a halt. Satsuki motioned at them with Nerume loosely holding her left arm.

"Get moving."

Kurumu snickered, starting down with Tsukune alongside her. Tora had already reached the landing and Kumiko was halfway down the other flight. Kurumu glanced at Tsukune, thinking about Moka.

"Are you ever going to ask Moka out?"

He laughed sheepishly, avoiding her gaze as they reached the landing.

"Why would you bring that up?"

"Because she's agonizing over your lack of interest."

"It's not a lack of interest. I just have other things that I'm worried about."

"Is something wrong?"

"It bothers me that my mother is here. Surrounded by monsters."

Kurumu frowned as they steadily descended the stairs. Kumiko and Tora were waiting at the bottom.

"Is she having problems with the staff?"

"No. It's not like she's being threatened. It's hard to describe. More like she doesn't belong."

"Harassed?"

He sighed heavily as they finally reached the bottom. The noisome lunch line was stretched along the hall, blocking both doors to the home economics room and the doors for second year class seven.

"The school really needs a solution for that lunch line."

Kurumu frowned at his change of subject.

"I don't disagree there. It should have never relied on third years bringing their own lunches."

"I wonder if Ms. Sawayaka wants to use the lunch plan Mr. Machida proposed."

"What are we waiting around for?"

Kurumu sighed as Satsuki arrived with Nerume. She shook her head when Kumiko took that as the cue to resume moving. She followed after the jorougumo with Tora at her side.

"I'm still waiting for an explanation of what is going on with your mother."

"Nothing is going on, Kurumu. She doesn't talk to her coworkers and they don't talk to her."

Kurumu thought that was rather depressing as they walked beneath the final crossover. His mother had lost her husband, home and all of her friends. It sounded so lonely.

"I think that Mikomi will try to do that three lunch group plan."

Tora nodded as they neared where the last stairway came down. Students laughed and chatted in the line to their right, blocking both doors to Ms. Yumeito's biology lab.

"That will work if those in charge of scheduling assign students from the same communities to the same lunch groups. But I don't know if they would put all of the out of prefecture students together."

"But they could put us together."

"They could but they might need to spread us around to make the lunch groups the same size."

"They should be able to keep everyone in the cafeteria with three lunch groups."

Kurumu frowned at Kumiko's gesture at the lunch line.

"Why would they do that?"

Kumiko huffed as they turned to the right, walking alongside the lunch line. Another line made by the third years merged with this one at the start of a wall dividing the serving area from the seating area.

"Because there is no reason to allow students to take their lunches all over the campus. The faculty only tolerates it because there isn't enough seating in the cafeteria."

"That is a good point, Ms. Hineri. It would make things easier on the kitchen staff. You should mention this to Ms. Sawayaka. The proposal might have more faculty support with that benefit."

Kurumu shrugged at Tora's suggestion as they turned left, heading towards the shelf stocked with white Styrofoam boxes. A cart laden with lunch trays was placed near the door to the employee break area.

"I suppose I could talk to her at the next Saturday meeting."

It didn't take long to reach the door near the cart with the lunch trays. Kumiko opened it for them, letting Kurumu and Tora pass through.

"Well I hope that I get to be in the same lunch group as you and Tsukune."

"Shouldn't you be more concerned about being in a lunch group with your boyfriend?"

Kurumu pouted as they made their way to the end of this short corridor. The open space beyond was the employee break room which had an exterior door for bringing in stock.

"I can want both."

They turned right, heading down another short corridor. The sounds and scents of sizzling food and dishes being washed permeated the atmosphere. This first space on the other side of the hall was for the dishes. A woman with her dark locks contained inside a hairnet had on a thick, black apron over her short sleeved, green blouse and matching green pants.

"Good afternoon, Mother."

Aono Kasumi turned at the sound of his voice, managing a smile. She continued washing the dishes.

"Good afternoon, Tsukune. I hope that you are having a good day."

Kurumu paused with Tora as Tsukune walked over to his mother. Satsuki and Nerume also came to a halt with a frowning Kumiko behind them.

"I'll be stopping by tonight. Mrs. Takizawa has something to discuss with us."

His mother frowned at him, sparing a glance at the rest of them.

"Is there something wrong?"

"No. She just wants to show you my student file with our family lineage."

Mrs. Aono brightened up with a grin.

"That sounds interesting. I'll see you after school then."

Tora patted Kurumu on the arm before the sphinx walked off. Kurumu quickly moved to keep in step with Tora as they ventured deeper into the kitchen. Tora angled towards a break in the line of stoves with a massive steel hood over the cooking surfaces. All of the men and women in the kitchen had hairnets and the same attire Mrs. Aono had on.

On the other side of the gap was another dark haired woman standing beside a cart laden with prepared lunches for the PSC and some of the sports clubs. Tora waved at the woman whom impassively regarded them. The worker pulled out one of the trays. Each tray had two entrée boxes and a cup of soup.

"You first."

Kurumu forced a smile, taking the first tray under Tora's invitation. She drifted over to the nearest exit, waiting for the others to get their meals. Balancing her tray, she opened the door for the others.

They came out behind the four registers which were manned by workers totaling up the wares brought to them by the students. Tora held open the door to the auditorium which had been right next to them. Kurumu nodded at the sphinx, entering the vast chamber beyond.

"What was that about your student file?"

"Your Aunt was going to talk to me and my mother about our family lineage."

"I gathered that much. I was wondering why your lineage is in your file."

Tsukune smiled softly at Satsuki as they walked along the side of the auditorium. The first of the doors to their left was for a small locker room but the next one was an exterior door.

"My lineage is how I was able to remove Moka's seal. It's why I was brought here."

"Are you discussing that at her place?"

"I don't know. I'll have more details after last period."

"Which I think you should invite Moka to."

Tsukune managed a smile after Tora's remark.

"I probably should but it's not like we have club today."

"I'm sure that Kurumu or I could talk to her before she leaves gym."

"That would be nice if you did."

Kurumu frowned at his reluctance to invite Moka himself. Another exterior door was up ahead near the wall for a small storage room which was in line with the stage.

"Are you going to join us, Tora?"

Tora shook her head as they drifted to the right. There was a narrow passage flanking the stage which ran to the girls' locker room.

"I didn't see a reason to."

"Yea. And I have a feeling that Mizore wouldn't be interested in this."

"Did you even ask her?"

"I will ask her last period, Kurumu."

Tora's placating words failed to make her feel any better about Tsukune's attitude. It was like he had this air of nobody caring about him. Or he was being overly mindful of them having boyfriends. But as far as she knew, Tsukune and Umizake had come back from training in Hong Kong on good terms.

Kumiko was first into the narrow passage with Tsukune, Satsuki and Nerume not far behind her. Kumiko continued down to a door on the left which was a storage room that the drama club was using. Opening the door, the jorougumo nodded with her head for them to go inside.

Following the others in, Kurumu first noticed the four seated about the low table in the center of the room. The broad man facing the door was Sabaku Akira. He had not bothered to braid his stringy, black hair and was regarding them with lavender eyes. Lady Hineri had named him the new PSC leader.

To Sabaku's right was Kitajima Danuja. Kitajima's dark locks were pulled into a top knot, making his widow's peak even more blatant. The kendo club member looked more like a middle aged man than a high school student. Unlike the other PSC members, he was wearing the blue gi of the kendo club.

To the other side of Sabaku was the cheerful Koike Kousuke. The inugami from Aserutani had short tawny locks and a fanged grin. The left sleeve of his uniform was pinned back at his shoulder, having lost his arm in the Okinawa incident.

Satsuki settled down beside the last occupant of the room. That girl with the shaggy, shoulder length hair was Meirowasa Tokori. Her dark tresses were plagued with white splotches. Nerume hunkered down on the other side of Satsuki.

"It seems the number of our guests continues to grow."

Kurumu smiled apologetically at Sabaku as Tsukune knelt down at the table next to Kitajima. Recognizing the lack of room, Kurumu knelt down next to Nerume with her back to the door while Tora took the spot next to Tsukune.

"How are you doing, Sabaku? I haven't had lunch with you since the school officially reopened."

Sabaku huffed as Kumiko squeezed into the space between Kurumu and Tora.

"You haven't missed much. I'm still trying to convince Mr. Kitajima to join our club full time."

Kitajima snorted around a mouthful of noodles. He swallowed it down, waving his chopsticks.

"The kendo club doesn't require that much attention from me. I have no reason to quit."

"So what brings you to our table, Ms. Kurono?"

Kurumu smiled at Sabaku as she pushed her chopsticks out of a cellophane wrapper.

"Tora invited me."

Tora nodded, stirring up the contents of one of her boxes.

"There was something I wanted her to discuss with Mr. Aono. And I also knew that Ms. Meirowasa would join us with it being Thursday. She might have an update on those young men."

"That's right. You were hoping to recruit a couple guys from the town."

Tokori smiled apologetically at Kurumu's interest.

"I did speak with Zuiichi but I don't have any news on Takagi. Zuiichi is going to enroll but I can't promise you that he'll join the PSC."

Sabaku sighed.

"I was hoping for better news than that."

"The fact that he's coming here is good. And he does have to join a club. Short of him having his heart set on something, he could try this out."

Kitajima nodded solemnly at Koike's optimism.

"He could also be in two clubs. It's not like the PSC has been as present on campus as it was last year."

"Which I would like to change. We are the disciplinary committee. Too many students have become lax with the dress code."

Kurumu giggled, thinking that was such a silly matter to be worried over. She opened up the smaller of the entrée boxes, noting it was full of nikujaga over rice. She started mixing it up.

"Will you be joining the PSC full time, Kumiko?"

Kumiko frowned at Kurumu. She shook her head, stirring up her meal.

"That depends on what Coach Kanatoko plans to do with me. I'm not spending another year in softball sitting on the bench."

"When will you find out?"

Kumiko looked up at Sabaku's gaze. She continued to stir with a thoughtful expression.

"Last year the team was pretty much determined after the first midterms. The season starts in July."

Kurumu pinched the first morsel of beef between her chopsticks, lifting them up to her lips.

"How many returning players does the softball team have?"

Kumiko took her time chewing her first mouthful. She swallowed, fishing in the box for her next morsel.

"Eleven, including myself. Ms. Hidarimeki and Ms. Tochimaru were on the team last year."

"Are they keeping Ms. Hidarimeki in the outfield?"

Kumiko shrugged at Koike's question.

"Probably. She's a solid player but too short for the infield. Hard to say with Ms. Tochimaru. She might want to play third base again but she might have to play first base."

"You don't have someone to play first?"

"Not really. The rest of our second years are short. Ms. Himitsuen and Ms. Takameru will probably both be put in the outfield since Coach Kanatoko doesn't like benching third years."

Kumiko paused to bring a morsel up to her mouth.

"Our other two returning second years are Ms. Kashisora and Ms. Koishitani. Those two have been training to be our pitchers for next year. And both are too short to play first base."

"What about your first years?"

Kumiko took the time to chew down and swallow before answering Kurumu. This also gave Kurumu time to down her own mouthful.

"The Takeuchi twins work well together at second base and short stop. Short of us getting new recruits that are much better, they will take those positions. Our other two first years are Ms. Azayaka and Ms. Fugohara. While they both are about the same height as Ms. Tochimaru, they both would rather pitch."

Kurumu mulled that over as she chewed on a chunk of potato and beef. She swallowed it down.

"Where does that put you?"

Kumiko sighed heavily as the door drew open. The both glanced over their shoulders as Mizore drifted inside. Umizake entered behind her, closing the door.

"That's the issue. I'm too short for the infield which means I'll be an extra for the outfield."

"Where do we sit?"

Koike chuckled, hopping to his feet.

"Right here, young lady. I hope that your boyfriend doesn't mind standing."

Mizore murmured her thanks, wafting over to his location. She settled down next to Tokori as Umizake strolled over to join the grinning inugami.

"What did we miss?"

"Just a little chatter about the future of the softball team. It sounds like they don't have a catcher."

Kurumu laughed at Koike's answer, having not thought about that.

"You could do that."

Kumiko snorted, shaking her head.

"Not a chance. One of our relief pitchers can take up that spot if nobody else wants it."

"Well I'll have to tell my little sister about this. I don't know if she wants to be a catcher, but she might at least try for that open first base spot."

Kumiko peered up at Koike's fanged grin.

"Your sister wants to play softball?"

"She wants to be on a team but doesn't want to do track."

"How tall is she?"

"She's as tall as the Takeuchi twins."

Sabaku cleared his throat loudly.

"I don't know if you all forgot but this is a PSC meeting."

Kurumu snickered as several others chuckled. She turned her attention fully upon her meal.

"Let me get that."

Kurumu darted to the main entrance of the apartment building in which Ms. Atsumoto resided, tugging open the door. Tsukune grinned at the gesture, murmuring his thanks. In his arms were three boxes that Mrs. Takizawa had bought from Pizza Express. He strolled into the lobby a few steps ahead of the others.

Moka flashed Kurumu a nervous grin, walking alongside Mrs. Takizawa. On the stroll through the woods in the fading light, the vampire had told Tsukune about going with her on an outing with Umizake and Mizore. He had agreed to meeting with Moka at her suite on Saturday around ten. The acceptance had lacked any enthusiasm but it was better than a refusal.

Rubi was accompanying Yukari. The older witch had on a long sleeved, faded pink, dress shirt with a pair of burgundy slacks. She had decided to come with Yukari to learn more about Tsukune. Once the two witches passed by her, Kurumu stepped inside, letting the door close under its own weight.

"We are here for Ms. Atsumoto in room 109."

The teacher stood at the glass window near the only interior door of this white painted lobby. A bench with cushions was pushed up against either wall.

The grizzled man on the other side of the window grunted, picking up the black receiver of a phone. That silver haired attendant was Mr. Teppeki. He was not a jovial sort even when he had been wearing a Santa suit on Christmas Eve.

"Do you think we got too much pizza?"

Mrs. Takizawa smiled at Yukari's concern.

"That depends on how much you girls eat. I can manage three slices without forcing myself."

"She'll be right down.

Mrs. Takizawa nodded at Mr. Teppeki as Yukari pouted.

"Three slices might be easy for you but some of us have delicate stomachs."

"I'm only worried that Hotori doesn't have any appropriate drinks for minors."

Kurumu giggled at their teacher's remark. She took in a deep breath, regarding the heavy door.

Not a whole lot had happened after lunch. She had finished that pillow in home economics that she had been working on since last Monday. The heart and bubble graphics on the cover were a little childish but she had to work with the materials on hand. Hopefully Nijiro would appreciate her efforts.

The coaches were having them play dodgeball and had spent all of Tuesday explaining the rules for the few that had never played it before. Kurumu's homeroom was paired with Manami's homeroom to make the teams large enough for interesting games. Yesterday they had barely beaten Mizudake's group, the second years from classes two and four. Today they had faced Horie's group, the third years from classes one and three. That had been a very lopsided loss.

Umou's older sister was willing to play the flute for them if they decided to do the Itsuki Lullaby. They would make an official vote tomorrow at the end of practice. Mrs. Tomarigi would contact the choir director at Bakufu Academy on Monday with their choices.

The heavy door swung out, drawing Kurumu's attention to the woman opening it. Atsumoto Hotori had on a mint green dress shirt and black slacks. Her rusty blond tresses were still up in braided twin tails. She smirked with amusement in her lime green eyes.

"You brought pizza? I haven't had that in months."

Tsukune laughed, entering the small chamber on the other side of the door.

"That's a surprise. Mom often ordered pizza when she wasn't in the mood to cook."

"Hurry up. The old man won't open the other door until we are all inside."

Kurumu smiled at Ms. Atsumoto's urging, following the others into the small chamber. The second year math teacher let the heavy door close behind her once they were all inside.

"That smells delicious."

Tsukune grinned as a buzz sounded. Mrs. Takizawa kindly tugged the door open for him.

"I'm just glad that we were able to order normal stuff. I was a little worried about what monsters might have as topping selections."

Kurumu giggled, following the others into the adjacent open space. The door to the left was for Mr. Teppeki's office. One corridor cut to the right while another went straight after a slight offset. Mrs. Takizawa briskly made her way down the corridor on the right, discouraging them from dallying.

"Shizuka gave me your file at the end of the school day. Your mother has already seen it."

"Mom was always curious about her lineage. She only had one grandparent alive when she was born and I got the impression that her father never talked about his family."

"The door is unlocked?"

Ms. Atsumoto nodded as Mrs. Takizawa arrived at the end of the hall first.

"Go on inside."

Mrs. Takizawa tugged open the last door on the left side, gesturing for Tsukune to head in first.

"Mother! I come bearing gifts."

Kurumu giggled as Tsukune ducked into the room. Moka nodded at the teacher before heading inside. Kurumu lingered in the hallway, allowing Yukari and Rubi to enter ahead of her.

"Oh my. You have pizza."

"Yea. And they had normal flavors. We got margherita, bacon with potatoes and teriyaki chicken. Where should I put them?"

"On the table should be fine."

There finally was room for Kurumu to enter the small genkan of Atsumoto's suite. She shuffled inside, leaning down to unbuckle her Mary Janes as the witches drifted further into the room.

"I'll get some plates."

"Would you believe that Yukari has never had pizza before?"

"Me either, Mr. Aono."

Tsukune chuckled at Rubi's admission as Kurumu finally freed herself of her shoes.

"Then you should try a slice of each."

Kurumu stepped up into the apartment as Mrs. Aono gestured with plates in hand. The mother was still garbed in the kitchen worker attire but was free of the apron.

"Have a seat at the table, young ladies."

Yukari and Rubi claimed two of the three chairs placed about a table with a dark green finish. The chairs had a wicker mesh between the rounded backs which matched the table's finish. The mother set a plate in front of each witch with the stack of pizza boxes in the center or the square table held up by a single, fluted pillar with a circular base.

"Are you going to sit, Mother?"

Mrs. Aono smiled, putting the last plate in front of the vacant chair with the back to the stove.

"It will be fine. One of our other guests should have it."

Kurumu's eyes swept from the table to the right where a television and stereo rested on their own black stands against the bump out of what was likely the bedroom's closet. Around this projection was a shelf stacked with DVDs and CDs. The wall on her right had two doors for the two bedrooms.

"Doesn't matter to me which one of you girls take it."

Ms. Atsumoto finished her statement with locking up her door.

"I'll be sharing counter space with Shizuka."

Mrs. Takizawa giggled, stepping up into the room. The history teacher passed by the open door to a small bathroom, stopping at the refrigerator in the corner to the left. The nekomusume tugged the refrigerator door, pulling out two cans of beer.

"I guess the kids will have to settle on glasses of water."

"I could make some tea."

Mrs. Takizawa shrugged at Mrs. Aono's offer, setting one can on the counter. She turned about, popping the tab of the can in her hand.

"If the kids are fine with that."

Kurumu smiled as Moka finally claimed the last chair at the table. She drifted over to the center of the room as Ms. Atsumoto made her way to the counter. Her colleague grinned, snatching up the can from the counter and presenting it to the salamander.

"I'm surprised that there aren't any fish toppings in your wares."

Tsukune chuckled, opening up the top pizza box which had the teriyaki chicken.

"Mrs. Takizawa thought about it, but I told her that my mother wasn't fond of fish on pizza."

"I don't mind it."

Tsukune smirked, gesturing at his mother.

"You put up with Dad's preferences. Would you like a slice of each?"

"I'll see what is left."

Ms. Atsumoto chuckled, setting her open can aside.

"Well hand me a plate. I'm going to grab a slice of each."

Mrs. Aono nodded, turning about and lifting up on her toes. She opened the top cabinet, pulling down another stack of plates.

"You don't need to do that, Mom. I can manage with a box."

Mrs. Aono frowned at him, handing the top plate to Ms. Atsumoto.

"Don't be silly. None of these young ladies want to eat from a box."

"Move it, Mr. Aono. Unless you plan to serve me."

Tsukune grinned when the teacher halfheartedly handed him her plate. He snatched it up and grabbed the first slice out of the chicken teriyaki box.

"Do you want all three now?"

"Sure. Why not?"

Tsukune nodded, scooting the top box over to be able to lift the lid of the second box up high enough to fish his hand inside. He tugged out a slice laden with bacon and potatoes, adding it to the plate.

"Should we help ourselves?"

Yukari shrugged at Rubi as Tsukune struggled to get a slice out of the bottom box.

"I'm in no hurry to torture myself with questionable comestibles."

Tsukune snickered, presenting the plate to Ms. Atsumoto.

"It's pizza, Yukari. You'll like it."

"My parents would have exposed me to this if it was beneficial to me."

"Would you serve me, Mr. Aono?"

Moka laughed softly as Tsukune took Rubi's plate to add slices to it.

"I can't remember the last time we had pizza. It's probably been months."

Tsukune chuckled as he had the same issue of getting that last slice out of the bottom box.

"It hasn't been nearly that long for me. We had it in Hong Kong once after the New Year."

Kurumu smiled, trying to recall the last time she had eaten pizza. She knew that they had ordered pizza for at least two birthday parties before summer break. But she could not recall any times after that.

"I guess the last time I had pizza was Hatoko's birthday party."

Moka perked up with a bright smile as Tsukune gave Rubi her plate.

"That's right. We were both there."

"Thank you, Mr. Aono."

"You're welcome, Rubi. Moka. Shall I give you a slice of each?"

Moka grinned at Tsukune, nodding. It was such a warm, genuine smile.

"Yes. Thank you, Tsukune."

"You should come over to the counter, Ms. Kurono."

Kurumu felt a little embarrassed at Mrs. Aono's suggestion. She sashayed over to the counter, taking the plate that the mother offered her while Tsukune continued his task of serving Moka.

"Tsukune mentioned to us that you only knew one of your grandparents."

"That is correct. Granny Reina was the only one alive when I was born. Her husband, Jun, passed away in the December of 62. Both of my father's parents died in the fifties."

"Do humans have such short life spans?"

Mrs. Aono laughed at Yukari's gruff inquiry.

"My father was forty two and my mother had just turned thirty nine when I was born. I was very late in their lives. And their only child."

"You should mention Great Grandmother Emiko."

Tsukune paused to present the plate laden with pizza slices to Moka. The vampire murmured her thanks, accepting the plate. The young man grinned, holding his hand out to his mother.

"That was Granny Reina's mother. She was still alive when my mother was born."

Mrs. Aono smiled, handing her plate to her son.

"I can't say that I remember that old woman well. I was only four when she passed away. She was kind."

Tsukune grinned, gesturing at the boxes with her plate.

"Are you wanting a slice of each?"

Mrs. Aono laughed with a slight shake of her head.

"I didn't mean for you to serve me now. Perhaps you can prepare that plate for Mrs. Takizawa?"

Attention shifted to the history teacher whom was drinking from her second beer can. Beside Mrs. Takizawa was Ms. Atsumoto. The salamander was leaning up against the counter, holding her plate against her belly while chewing on a slice. Her open can of beer rested on the counter behind her.

"Sure. I can take a slice of each."

Tsukune grinned, starting on his next task.

"Great Grandmother Emiko was a couple months shy of eighty three when she passed. And Granny Reina was almost seventy eight when she passed away. So you can't say humans have short lives."

Ms. Atsumoto snickered, finishing up her first slice.

"As a salamander, I can say that's a little short. None of my kind are dying of old age before the century mark. It's rumored that we can easily make it to two."

"Rumored? You don't know?"

Ms. Atsumoto shrugged at Mrs. Aono's confusion.

"A lot of purebloods died in a war in the middle of the eighteenth century. I used to think Alucard was a myth made up to explain that gap in undocumented history."

Mrs. Aono nodded solemnly.

"The man whom killed my Kouji."

"That appears to be the case. But your son and Ms. Akashiya have spared us of history repeating itself."

Tsukune laughed as he wiggled a slice out of the bottom box.

"I don't take credit for that. Moka's mother had set everything up for us. We just had to show up."

Moka frowned as he drifted away from the table to give Mrs. Takizawa her plate.

"We did a lot more than just show up."

Tsukune smiled softly as Mrs. Takizawa took the plate with murmured thanks. He sauntered over to Kurumu's side, holding his hand out.

"Yea. I guess we did. Do you want a slice of each, Kurumu?"

Kurumu nodded, giving him the plate. He promptly returned to the table, opening the top box.

"Ms. Atsumoto says that you read the contents of my student file already. Find anything interesting?"

The mother perked up with a nod, trotting away from the counter.

"I did. I noticed that your file doesn't trace back our entire family history. It only follows a path back to a Koga Yasutaro, born in the spring of 1775."

Tsukune chuckled as his mother disappeared into one of the bedrooms.

"That doesn't surprise me. Koga Yasutaro was a man capable of breaking magical artifacts. Headmaster Mikogami met him centuries ago and was trying to find someone whom had inherited that ability."

Mrs. Aono returned to the main room, holding a folder in her hands.

"While that may be true, I noticed something else about our history which I find a little disturbing."

Tsukune frowned, adding a slice from the bottom box to Kurumu's plate.

"What did you find?"

The mother managed a smile, making her way back to the counter.

"You did know that my mother, Hayami, was an only child, right?"

Tsukune nodded, drifting over to give Kurumu her plate. Kurumu murmured her thanks but set the plate aside on the counter, more interested in whatever was troubling Mrs. Aono.

"Well I never thought to tell you, but Granny Reina was also an only child."

"Isn't that a strange coincidence."

His mother managed a smile. She flipped open the folder, gazing down at the contents.

"It's not a coincidence. Aono Tsukune born June twelfth, 1989. Only son of Aono Kouji and Ikeda Kasumi. Ikeda Kasumi born on April fourth, 1966. Only daughter of Ikeda Kazuno and Miura Hayami."

Mrs. Aono paused, taking in a deep breath.

"Miura Hayami born March twenty sixth, 1927. Only daughter of Miura Jun and Igarashi Reina. Igarashi Reina born June seventeenth, 1910. Only daughter of Igarashi Goro and Kato Emiko."

The mother smiled softly, looking up at Tsukune.

"I knew more about Great Grandmother Emiko. Granny Reina told me about her aunts and uncles. But she had no stories about her father."

"Was he an only child?"

Mrs. Aono glanced at Kurumu. She nodded, turning her attention back to the folder.

"It shows here that Igarashi Goro was born September twenty third in 1877. He was the only son of Igarashi Minato and a Mimori whom does not have a surname. This Mimori has an estimated birth year of 1859 to a man by the name of Koga Yamato."

"That's the name of Koga Yasutaro's grandson."

Mrs. Aono laughed nervously at Tsukune's declaration.

"Correct. He's shown as the only son to a Masahiko. And this Masahiko was the only son of Yasutaro."

"But the Headmaster explained that. Or at least he explained why Yamato was an only child. His mother died in childbirth."

Mrs. Aono smiled softly, closing the folder.

"Tsukune. That feels more like a coincidence. The pattern of a whole century shows that our line only gets to have one child."

Kurumu flinched, thinking about Hatsue. Had she taken away the only child Tsukune could have?

"But it doesn't say that this Mimori is an only child."

"That is only one gap in the records. What if this power you have is also a curse?"

Yukari snorted loudly, patting her empty plate on the table to guarantee attention was upon her.

"You are being too dramatic, Mrs. Aono. Tsukune's body has undergone major biological changes. While that curse may have been a limitation in his human body, it likely has no impact in his vampire one. Don't forget that Kurumu's body no longer responds to his."

Kurumu blushed hotly, embarrassed but relieved. Tsukune chuckled, sauntering back to the table.

"That's true. I'm pretty sure that I can have lots of children when I'm ready."

"How many children are you wanting?"

Tsukune blushed at Rubi's innocent question. He laughed, shaking his head.

"I wasn't meaning like that."

"But that is kind of important to know."

Tsukune smiled at Rubi's expectant gaze. He gestured at Yukari.

"Hand over that plate. You're going to sample one slice of each."

Yukari sighed dramatically, surrendering her plate.

"Fine. But I won't finish a slice if I don't like it."

"I'll finish it for you."

Yukari blushed slightly.

"You would eat something I had in my mouth?"

Tsukune laughed, taking a slice from the top box and adding it to the plate.

"It's better than wasting it."

"Four seems like a good number. Right, Ms. Akashiya?"

Moka looked away from Rubi.

"I'd rather not talk about how many kids I plan to have."

Tsukune laughed, shaking his head as he retrieved a slice from the bottom box.

"Agreed. We can discuss that after we graduate."

Moka turned beet red as he handed the plate to a flush Yukari. Kurumu snickered, wondering if that oblivious boy was going to cause one of her friends to die from embarrassment.