"And our bachelorette for today's show is Sendou Yukari!"

The audience clapped under the prompting of the announcer. The dark haired man had on a white suit with a blood red tie. He gestured to the side of the stage while holding a microphone.

"Ms. Sendou has just returned from overseas after obtaining her degree from a prestigious university."

Yukari strolled into view, sporting a yellow ballroom gown hemmed with white lace. White flowers were arranged in her dark tresses which spilled down her back. The white strings of the corset top had been tightened to lift up her slight bosom.

"And perhaps even more astounding is that she is not even twenty years old!"

The man held his arm out, inviting Yukari to step closer. As she acquiesced, he placed his hand on her far shoulder. He grinned, looking out at the crowd.

"Say hello, Ms. Sendou."

He lowered the microphone to Yukari's bright red lips.

"Hello."

"Are you ready to meet your marriage prospects?"

"I'm a bit nervous."

The announcer laughed, turning Yukari to face the side of the stage.

"Don't worry. We have some great candidates for you. First up!"

A spotlight illuminated a young man standing behind a podium. It was Miyamoto and he was wearing his usual karate gi. He grinned at the crowd, holding a thumb up.

"Mr. Miyamoto from your high school!"

The crowd clapped as Yukari forced a smile.

"After graduation, Mr. Miyamoto started up a dessert company. He has dozens of trucks running routes in the Kanto region, bringing sweetness and joy to people's lives."

"I always had a feeling he would end up driving a white van."

The announcer chuckled, turning slightly.

"And our next contestant!"

Another spotlight bathed the podium, revealing a young man with a girl clinging to each of his arms. Huang Fang had on a sleeveless, silk crimson shirt with golden trim and a mandarin collar. To his right was the pink haired Routier. The woman Huang had married to make peace with the Miao family was garbed in a crimson cheongsam with a golden flame pattern. On his left was Hitsuji Chiyu whom was dressed in a yellow cheongsam with a cloud pattern. Her wavy white hair cascaded down to her rump.

"Huang Fang, your former flame!"

"I was never interested in him."

The announcer laughed nervously.

"He assured us that you were-"

"He tried to marry me before he met those other two."

Huang laughed merrily.

"Come now, Ms. Sendou. No reason to deny your feelings."

"This guy already has two wives."

"We checked and confirmed that polygamy is allowed for him. He is the leader of the Miao family and ridiculously wealthy."

Yukari glanced at the announcer.

"He bribed you."

"My heart won't be complete until I have you at my side."

Yukari grimaced at Huang.

"I have no interest in becoming part of your harem."

"Struggle if you must. It makes the chase more fun."

"Please tell me you have another candidate."

The host laughed heartily at Yukari's distress.

"Of course. Our final contestant!"

Another spotlight switched on, extinguishing the darkness about a third podium. An older, dark haired man with glasses stood with a stern expression. He was wearing a black sweater and tan slacks.

"Mr. Nisemimoto!"

"Dad?!"

The announcer flinched at Yukari's incredulous cry.

"Come home, Yukari. You don't need to get married."

"What are you dreaming about?"

Kurumu jerked when she felt something caress her cheek. The bright stage and everyone upon it were replaced by the darkness of a room. She blinked as she rolled onto her back, trying to make out shapes.

"Whom don't you want to get married?"

Kurumu let out a heavy sigh, realizing it was Moka. She was on the pink couch which she had shared with the vampire. Moka was hovering nearby, wearing a pink camisole which was not long enough to cover her pale derriere.

"Why are you up?"

"Your phone alarm was going off so I got up to silence it. When I came back, you were mumbling some protest about somebody getting married."

Kurumu chuckled wearily, reaching down for the blanket. Her powder blue chemise had hiked up to her waist during her sleep. She found the thin sheet, pulling it up to her bosom.

"Weird dream. Yukari was on some game show."

"How does that involve getting married?"

Kurumu stifled a yawn, recalling fragments of the dream.

"It was some matchmaking game show. And all of her marriage prospects were terrible for her."

Moka giggled, patting Kurumu's shoulder.

"Come on. Get up. You need to start making breakfast."

Kurumu groaned, forcing herself up into a seated position.

"Since when did you become so energetic in the morning?"

Moka giggled again, retreating from the couch.

"It's probably because of Tsukune blood. I'm going to take a bath."

Kurumu flinched when the bathroom light turned on, scattering the darkness her eyes had adjusted to. She glanced at the bed, noting the bulge beneath the comforter. Kokoa had slept with Ishiko whom was wearing one of Kokoa's nightgowns since the gnome had forgotten to bring pajamas. At least the gnome had remembered to grab fresh clothes for today.

Taking in a deep breath, Kurumu gathered up the sheet. She scooted off the end of the couch, standing up as she folded the sheet. Placing the sheet on the couch, she moved the cushions back to their proper places. She strolled around to the back of the couch, leaning down to release the latch. Holding the back of the couch up, she shuffled over to the other side to push the other button. With the back freed, she was able to lift it fully up where it snapped into place.

She glanced at her maid outfit which was draped over her schoolbag, wondering if she should change. Thinking it would be better to use the toilet first, she padded over to the open door.

Kurumu slipped inside just as Moka turned on the bath to fill the tub. The silver haired vampire was naked, sitting on the lip with a container in hand. She looked up at Kurumu's arrival and smiled.

"I don't need help."

Kurumu giggled, stepping over Moka's discarded camisole.

"I'm just here to use the toilet."

Kurumu hiked up her chemise as she turned about. She sat down on the toilet, letting out a sigh as she emptied her bladder. She met Moka's gaze and smiled.

"Officially a couple now."

"Yea. It doesn't feel real."

Kurumu smirked, reaching over to tug a square of toilet paper off its roll. She reached under her chemise to dab herself dry.

"What did you think it would feel like?"

"I don't know. Happily ever after?"

Kurumu giggled dropping the square. She reached back to flush the toilet, deciding to remain seated.

"It would be nice if it worked like that. All of your worries just vanish and never return."

Moka sighed, fussing with the container of bath salts in her hands. Those salts would make the water tolerable for her.

"Yea. Maybe it will feel like that after we get married."

"Aren't you skipping a few steps there?"

Moka smiled softly, reaching for the water. Energy crackled when her fingers touched the surface. With a nod, she emptied more powder from the container into the filling tub.

"It will be two years before he challenges me for my hand. But at least I know now that it will happen."

"You were kissing in your underwear."

"Yea. If Tsukune had not said something, I might have taken things further."

Kurumu smirked, getting up. She stepped over Moka's camisole, pausing in the doorway.

"Are you planning to keep your virginity until marriage?"

"I really should."

Kurumu resisted the urge to remind Moka that Tsukune was not a virgin.

"It won't be easy, Moka. You'll want to be alone with him but you can't be alone with him. That's how it works with me and Nijiro."

Moka smiled, reaching over to turn off the water.

"I need more training before our rematch. I can't have him undressing me in front of my father."

"I doubt he would use that tactic with your dad watching."

"Am I even good enough for him?"

Kurumu was surprised with that vulnerable look in Moka's eyes. She swallowed thickly.

"He wants you, Moka. That's all that matters. Now I'm going to get dressed."

Kurumu left the room, padding over to Moka's desk and hunkering down to fetch her phone. Detaching the phone from its charger, she reached to the wall to unplug the device. Holding both to her breast, she crawled over to the side of the couch.

Settling on her haunches, she pushed the maid outfit off her schoolbag. She dragged her schoolbag up to her knees, opening it up. Rummaging through her schoolbag, she pulled out her school outfit for the day which included the sleeveless vest. As it was Wednesday, she had brought her canary yellow lace bra which she wore with the pastel yellow boyshorts with the pink cherry blossom pattern. Once her new clothes were out, she stuffed her phone and charger inside.

Grabbing the hem of her chemise, she tugged the garment up over her head and fluffed it out before stuffing it into her schoolbag. Not planning to put the maid outfit in her schoolbag, she closed it up.

Snatching up the black velvet garment, Kurumu shifted it about till she found the velvet interior beneath the pleated skirt. She ducked her head through, pulling the garment down her torso while she remained seated. She wiggled and writhed, getting her arms through the sleeves. With her hands out, she was able to tug the garment down to get her head through the tight collar.

Letting out a sigh of relief, Kurumu stood up. She reached under the skirt, tugging the interior down over her rump. Once that was properly in place, she adjusted the fabric about her breasts as she approached the refrigerator. Guessing this was good enough, she tugged open the door.

Kurumu quickly spotted the container of salted salmon, taking it out before closing the door. She left the container on the counter as she opened up the nearby cabinet. She hunkered down, grabbing the bag of rice and the bottle of cooking oil. Standing back up, she set both on the counter.

Leaning forward, she grabbed the rice cooker and dragged it away from the wall. Noting that it was still plugged in, she opened up the top. Pulling the bag of rice closer, she checked inside the bag to confirm the scoop was still inside. She portioned out a serving of rice, dumping it into the rice cooker.

After adding three more scoops of rice, Kurumu scooted over to the sink to turn on the faucet. She filled the scoop, adding the water to the rice cooker. She did this three more times before turning off the faucet and closing the rice cooker. Turning the device on, she set the timer for thirty minutes.

Leaving the rice and scoop out on the counter, she snatched up the container with the salmon and the bottle of cooking oil. She pranced over to the stove, setting both items aside. She fetched a spatula out of nearby drawer before lifting up on her toes. She opened the cupboard and wiggled out the skillet. Closing the overhead door, she set the skillet aside.

Thinking she should cook with the lights on, she padded over to the entry and flipped on the switch.

"Time to wake up, Milady."

Kurumu grabbed the oil bottle, twisting off the top. She squirted some into the skillet before placing it on the stove. Putting the top back on, she set the oil bottle aside. She turned the dial that livened the burner before opening the container with the salmon. She carefully placed the fillets in the skillet as a thought popped in her head.

"I should make miso soup."

Setting the empty container aside, Kurumu lifted up on her toes and opened the cupboard again. She had to really stretch for the pot, turning it with her fingertips so that she could grab the handle. She yanked the pot out, lowering back on her heels. Grinning at her success at not using the little step stool today, she shuffled over to the sink. Holding the pot beneath the faucet, she turned it on.

As the pot filled, she watched the stove. She wondered if they had tofu. In seconds the pot was full and she turned off the water. Setting the pot aside, she padded back over to the fridge.

She hunkered down, opening the cabinet again. She quickly found a box of miso and fished out a dashi packet from another box. Straightening up, she tugged open the refrigerator door. She glanced about and spied a container with chunks of tofu. Grinning, she snatched that up and closed the door. Prancing back to the stove, she set the three items by the spatula.

"Breakfast won't take long, Milady. You should take a bath before your sister drains the tub."

Kurumu heard no response as she fetched the filled pot. She dumped some water out before bringing it over to the stove. Setting the pot on the burner next to the skillet, she turned the dial to start it up. She opened the nearby drawer to fetch a ladle.

Opening the box of miso, she used the ladle to scoop out a chunk. She placed the ladle in the pot before grabbing the dashi packet and tearing it open. She dumped the seasoning into the water, shaking the packet thoroughly. Grabbing the ladle, she stirred it about until the miso was no longer sticking to it.

Once she was satisfied with her miso concoction, she checked the fillets in the skillet. None looked ready to be turned over. Letting go of the ladle, she turned about and sashayed over to the bed.

"You need to wake up, Milady. Don't make me drag you out of bed."

Kurumu stopped by the bed, grabbing the hem of the crimson comforter. She tugged the blanket down, revealing Kokoa was spooning Ishiko. Kurumu placed her hand on Kokoa's shoulder and shook firmly.

"It's morning, Kokoa. Time to get up."

Kokoa groaned, turning her head to face Kurumu. Her sliver hair was in her face as her eyes opened.

"Morning already?"

"Mhm. Moka is in the bath. If you hurry, you could take one before she drains the treated water."

Kokoa yawned, pushing the comforter further down to reveal the black sheet beneath. The vampire wiggled her arm out from under Ishiko, sitting up on her side. The canary camisole she had on barely fit her mature body but Kokoa had seen no reason to get rid of it like most of her old wardrobe.

"Is breakfast started?"

"It's on the stove. I'll get the table out now."

Kurumu leaned down, reaching under the bed for the table. Feeling the edge of the hard surface in her hands, she grabbed firmly as she waddled back. She dragged the table out and kept going until she was clear of the couch. Letting go of the edge, she stepped around the corner to start pushing it until it was in its place behind the couch.

"Come on, Ishiko. Get up."

Kokoa's legs were hanging off the side of the bed as she nudged the grumbling gnome.

"No eggs today since Ishiko can't stomach them."

Kokoa sounded an affirmative as Kurumu returned to the stove. Kurumu picked up the spatula, figuring she may as well turn the fillets. It only took a few seconds. Setting the spatula aside, she stirred the pot with the ladle. It was still too soon to add the tofu.

"Kurumu. I need you here on Friday. You can spend the night."

Kurumu glanced over her shoulder as Kokoa got off the bed. The vampire turned her back on Kurumu as she grabbed Ishiko by the shoulders.

"Having a sleepover with another of your girls?"

Kokoa shuffled back, dragging the gnome off the bed. The gnome made a mild protest when her lower body hit the floor. Kurumu snickered as Kokoa started to help Ishiko stand up straight.

"I need you to do my laundry. Moka's willing to do the cooking but I've had to do my own laundry for two weeks now. You should be here Friday this week and Thursday next week."

"Of course, Milady. I'll happily do your laundry."

Kurumu smiled as Kokoa steered Ishiko towards the bathroom.

"When will I have permission to live with you again?"

Kokoa paused at the doorway, letting go of Ishiko. The gnome shuffled out of view on her own accord.

"I don't know. We can discuss that after spring break."

Kurumu smiled thinly as Kokoa slipped out of sight.

"As you wish, Milady."


The lunch bell startled Mrs. Takizawa. The history teacher whirled about, checking the clock to confirm that the bell had not sounded in error. She chuckled nervously, offering the class an apologetic smile. A thin white jacket was worn over her sleeveless denim dress to comply with the faculty dress code.

"I am so sorry. I did not mean to take this to the bell."

Kurumu smirked, setting aside her mechanical pencil. Despite being told that this subject material would not be on any test, she had been taking notes. For these last three days, Mrs. Takizawa would be going over historical topics that she admired but were not part of the curriculum.

"I hope in the least that you were entertained. Have a great afternoon."

As Mrs. Takizawa started for the door, Kurumu leaned over to open up her schoolbag.

"I still think the three of you cheated."

Kurumu sighed at Juri's accusation as she put her thing into her schoolbag. The sprite had already stood up and was scowling at her. Closing up her schoolbag, Kurumu relaxed back in her chair.

"Why don't you just worry about yourself?"

"Is that a threat?"

"Fuck off, Morisato."

Juri whirled on Satsuki whom had stood up with her arms crossed below her modest bosom.

"You know it's the truth! Being part of the corrupt PSC doesn't make you exempt from the rules!"

Satsuki lowered her arms and clenched her fists. She took a step forward but stopped when Kumiko touched Juri's shoulder. The sprite jerked away.

"Don't touch me!"

Kumiko leveled a harsh gaze upon Juri.

"If you have an issue, take it up with the faculty."

"Not that you have any proof."

Juri scowled at Yukari's remark.

"Everybody knows that Kurumu can read minds."

Abe chuckled, getting up from his seat.

"Hopefully not. I'd be devastated if the class found out about the weird stuff that crosses my mind."

Kumiko rolled her eyes.

"Nobody would be surprised, Mr. Abe."

"Go make your report, Morisato. I bet they laugh at you for thinking that the three of us cheated when none of us scored over ninety on a retake."

Juri stiffened up. She tried to bump Kumiko when she passed but the jorougumo did not budge, forcing the sprite to stagger. Scowling, the sprite stalked away.

"I will report you and Ms. Kiyomizu for making a mockery of this school."

Kurumu sighed heavily as Juri left the room on the heels of Ichiboku.

"This is your fault, Abe. You shouldn't have mentioned us getting help from Ms. Kiyomizu."

Abe laughed sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck.

"I didn't know you were trying to keep it a secret."

"As much as I loathe to say this, Mr. Abe's remark only gave Ms. Morisato something else to bitch about. She clearly hasn't been happy about my decision not to fully turn on you over this situation."

"And I agree with Ms. Hineri's assessment."

Attention shifted to Ichida whom stood up.

"At this point, I'm just looking forward to being in a different homeroom."

Senyou snickered, lingering by Ichida's desk. He favored them a snaggletooth grin.

"She's only trash talking the PSC because she knows that she can get away with it. She would have never dared to do that back when it was ran by Kuyo."

"What is everyone so serious about?"

Kurumu grinned as Nozomi drifted over to Kumiko's desk. The okami had left her school jacket open.

"Just a girl making trouble for me because I scored an eighty eight on my English retake."

Satsuki snorted, stepping over to the next aisle to nudge Nerume. The kirin was snoozing on her desk.

"And I just happened to get the same score. This goober here got an eighty two."

Abe smirked, shaking his head.

"Has she ever scored over eighty points before?"

"I have no idea. It's not like I'm keeping track of her scores. Wake up, runt."

Kumiko sighed heavily, turning to Nozomi.

"Since these three studied English with the PSC advisor and spent the night at her place, Ms. Morisato now wants to promote PSC corruption."

"Well it makes some sense. Kurumu did become a member afterwards."

Nozomi frowned at Abe's revelation.

"You joined the PSC?"

Kurumu waved her hand dismissively.

"As an auxiliary member. I haven't filled out a form to officially join them."

"But she is getting you a PSC uniform."

Upon hearing Satsuki's remark, Nozomi nodded with a thoughtful expression.

"Morisato has been running her mouth in the dorms about you. She says you told Hanetsume's friends about her dark secret to humiliate her."

Abe gasped, pounding a fist into his palm.

"I knew Kurono would do that."

Kurumu whimpered, throwing him a pleading look.

"Could you just leave? This doesn't concern you."

Ichida chuckled, taking the hint. He started walking off, prompting Abe and Senyou to follow.

"Clearly this is a matter between the girls. See you after lunch, Ms. Cock Block demon."

"I am not-"

Kurumu sighed, not wanting to complete her sentence as the snickering boys left the classroom.

"What's this about a cock block demon?"

Kurumu groaned, having no intentions of explaining that to Nozomi.

"Did Juri say what that dark secret was?"

"Yea. Something involving Hanetsume's family situation that I don't know if I should talk about."

"I already heard about this from Fufi. Apparently Ms. Morisato made a point to tell several members of the track team about your vindictive behavior."

Kurumu glanced at Hazumi whom was lingering with Madosuki. The girl smiled apologetically.

"I'm sorry for spreading that rumor if it isn't true. But I thought that Kumiko and Yasi should know since they are in our class."

"When did this happen?"

"Over the weekend."

Kurumu nodded, guessing this must have transpired on Sunday while they had been out celebrating Noboru's birthday. There was no way Suzume would have not told her about this.

"Does Hatoko know?"

The lingering girls all shared looks of uncertainty. A loud yawn drew attention back to Nerume.

"Is it lunch already?"

Kurumu giggled as Satsuki helped Nerume to her feet.

"Yes. It has been for about five minutes."

Nerume frowned, leaning against Satsuki. Her drowsy eyes were barely open.

"Why is everyone still standing around then?"

"They are just discussing how much of a bitch Morisato is."

"Hey now. I resemble that insult."

Satsuki snickered at Nozomi's halfhearted protest.

"Truth hurts. Are we ready to head out?"

"Yes. We can save the gossip about Ms. Morisato for another time."

Taking that as a cue, the remaining girls followed after the jorougumo. Nozomi lingered by Kumiko's desk as Satsuki shuffled by, steering a heavy footed Nerume at her side. Hazumi and Madosuki easily overtook the pair, exiting the classroom while Kumiko waited at the door for the others.

Kurumu let out a sigh when it was down to just the three of them. She favored Nozomi a grin as Yukari continued writing in her notebook.

"Have you talked to Hatoko about her grandfather?"

"I wouldn't dare. Akari and Nikki both agree that it's best to stay out of this."

"What about Kiba?"

Nozomi snorted, crossing her arms below her bosom.

"She could care less. She doesn't even know Hanetsume."

Kurumu nodded slowly, hoping that the girls whom Juri had blabbed to were keeping it to themselves. If Aori knew about it, she certainly had not told Moka.

"I should talk to Suzume first. Maybe check in on her at the start of last period."

"Sounds like a plan. Any reason why we are still waiting here?"

Yukari sighed heavily, closing up her notebook.

"You should be more grateful considering I made you a lunch."

Nozomi favored the witch a snaggletooth grin.

"I am grateful that you are sparing me from being at the end of the lunch line."

Kurumu giggled, scooting off her seat as Yukari started to put away her things.

"I'm still surprised that she made you a bento."

"It only made sense, considering that the rest of the group will already be finished with their lunch."

"Yea, I'm envious of Akari and everyone else with fourth period gym."

"They still have a lunch line."

Nozomi smirked as Yukari slipped off her seat.

"Sure. But it's half as long as this one."

Yukari hauled up her white satchel, resting the strap on her shoulder.

"May as well get going then."

Kurumu grinned, following after the witch. Nozomi fell in step as they made their way to the door.

"I do have some big news that isn't about me. Moka and Tsukune are officially a couple."

Nozomi chuckled as Yukari snorted. The witch exited the class first, turning right. The okami frowned, taking a hesitant step at first but keeping up with Kurumu.

"Why are we going this way?"

"To get drinks from the vending machine."

Nozomi nodded as they passed by the empty class one.

"Are you serious about those two finally getting together?"

"Totally. He asked her out and they kissed under a full moon."

Nozomi grinned with her snaggletooth as they rounded the corner. The witch started fishing coins out of her school jacket pocket.

"That is so ridiculously romantic. It isn't often that White Day falls so close to a full moon."

"What do you want to drink, Kurumu?"

"Yuzu today."

The witch nodded, dropping coins into the machine.

"Did you get a White Day gift?"

Nozomi made a dismissive gesture as the can tumbled into the bin.

"I don't have any guys crushing on me."

"Get your juice."

Kurumu smiled as Yukari fed more coins into the machine. She stepped around the witch, leaning down to push her hand into the bin. She snatched her can out two seconds before Yukari pushed the button for a green tea.

"Did you get a White Day gift from your boyfriend?"

Kurumu grinned as the okami stepped up to the machine after Yukari retrieved her drink.

"Nijiro bought me two compilation albums by Yuzu."

"Yuzu? Isn't that what you're drinking?"

Kurumu laughed as Nozomi started pushing coins into the machine.

"Yea. It's also a band that Watakoma told me about. They have at least two good songs."

"Did you listen to your CDs last night?"

"I only listened to the first album. Moka and Kokoa didn't know a single song."

Nozomi pushed a button, causing the machine to dispense her drink.

"I can't say that the name of that band is familiar."

"They are different. Lots of harmonica in their songs. I knew that I would like Flightless Bird but I also really enjoyed Sentimental. The rest of their songs on that first album were kind of forgettable."

Nozomi nodded, bringing her fruit juice can up to her bosom.

"Do they have any popular songs that I might know?"

Kurumu giggled as Yukari started walking towards the front of the school. She followed after the witch.

"Bridge of Glory is the first song on their second album."

Nozomi let out a gasp.

"Akari might have that single. That was a very popular song back in junior high."

"That's what I keep hearing."

Nozomi nodded as they neared the main foyer with the door to the broadcasting room on their right.

"So Aono and Akashiya finally got together."

"Kurumu has been blabbing about that all day. I'm surprised that she didn't tell the whole school about it in the announcements."

Kurumu giggled, thinking she would have got in trouble for that as they entered the main foyer. They kept to the left of the balcony with the two curving flights of stairs descending to a central landing.

"It is big news. Everyone I've told about this was happy to hear it."

"I wouldn't classify Tora's reaction as happy."

"She just thinks they are too young. She's fine with them being a couple."

"This dummy went next door and told his whole class. He must have been embarrassed."

"When did this happen?"

"Between first and second periods. It was the perfect excuse to get away from Juri for a few minutes."

Nozomi nodded as they passed to the other side of the foyer, heading for the elective wing.

"Any particular reason why we are going this way?"

"Yukari doesn't like walking through crowds."

"She would stop and socialize with every person she knows if we went the other way."

"I only stopped to chat with my boyfriend yesterday. I'm allowed that much."

Nozomi giggled as they followed Yukari to the far side of the elective hall. They turned left, walking alongside the classrooms for the business electives.

"Maybe I should try getting a boyfriend."

"There is always Senyou."

"I barely know that guy. I'm a little envious of Nikki."

Kurumu grinned, nudging against the okami.

"Are you harboring a secret crush on Fumusuna?"

Nozomi scoffed at that remark. After a few steps she let out a sigh.

"Touma is a good guy. He'll probably propose to Nikki soon and he might even marry her before she graduates. Some couples do that, you know. Get married the summer before graduation. It wouldn't surprise me if Nikki gets pregnant before we officially graduate. Happens to many Morihochou girls that find a mate in high school."

Kurumu nodded, realizing they were already passing by the door for the infirmary. The opening for the bathroom was a little further up with the crossover to the sewing room which was under construction.

"I need to ask Ms. Idatsu where we will be having detention."

Kurumu grinned at the confused look Nozomi made.

"They're closing the disciplinary room for remodeling after today."

"You're pretty scatterbrained."

Kurumu giggled as they passed by the doors to the first year computer lab.

"Yea, I guess. Maybe you could drop by and pay me a visit. I'm sure those rugby guys from Ashikantai that sit in the back are single."

"I'm not that desperate."

Kurumu giggled as they steadily approached the end of the hall.

"Do you have any plans for spring break?"

"Not really. Just lounge about with family for two weeks. Maybe catch a movie in Watasora."

"I would like to see Watasora and Morihochou someday. I'm curious what those towns are like."

"Nothing to really see in Morihochou. We have a few community buildings but nothing like what you see in Mononoke or Watasora."

Kurumu nodded, guessing that was not a surprise from what she knew about Morihochou. It sounded like most residents lived off well water and generators.

"I barely got to see Aserutani the one time I visited there."

Yukari huffed as they reached the end of the hall, drifting to the right. They passed by a set of vending machines on the way to the stairs.

"We saw the pictures that Tora took. It wasn't anything special."

Kurumu smiled, slowing her step as she neared the top of the stairs.

"I wonder if Mr. Daijou will be able to convince the town elders to use the elective wing as classrooms for the local kids until their school gets built."

Nozomi frowned as they started their descent.

"That's a thing?"

"Mhm. He's been trying to get the elders to agree to it for years but they don't want to pay for new teachers and Mr. Tensai is against using volunteers."

Nozomi shook her head in disbelief as they turned on the landing, heading down the second flight.

"That's crazy that they don't want to educate their kids."

"They argue that the school here is unsafe."

"They're just being stubborn."

Kurumu smirked as they arrived on the ground floor, walking towards the cafeteria.

"That's what I think."

"Ms. Kurono!"

They came to a halt, glancing down the third year hall. Kitamori Airashi waved at them, holding a bag of snacks in one hand and a sandwich in the other. The dark haired baseball player towered over his girlfriend, Kakeru Chisa. The pale kirin from first year class one had short, platinum locks with one long swath running down her back.

Walking by the couple was Fumusuna Touma. The third year soccer player was in the same homeroom as Kitamori. His ashen gray locks were jagged and trimmed short. The okami had a snaggletooth grin as he approached, carrying a sandwich and snacks.

"You realize that you'll be late to Miyamoto's birthday party if you are serving detention on Friday?"

Kurumu flinched at Yukari's remark.

"I'm sure that I could work something out with Ms. Idatsu. She's been very reasonable so far."

"Planning to eat lunch with your girlfriend?"

Fumusuna grinned at Nozomi as he arrived a few steps ahead of the couple.

"May as well get as much time in with my girl before I depart from these hallowed grounds."

Nozomi turned her smirk upon Chisa.

"I didn't realize you were running off to fetch these two."

"Not really. It just turned out that way."

Kitamori chuckled at Chisa's flustered response.

"I hope none of you object to the intrusion."

Kurumu laughed, making a dismissive gesture.

"Of course not. Chisa is Nerume's friend and you've eaten with us before."

"Then shall we walk together?"

Kurumu sounded a vehement affirmative which caused Nozomi to giggle. Yukari rolled her eyes with a shake of her head, resuming their walk down the hall towards the cafeteria.

"Do you have any plans with Nikki this weekend?"

"Unfortunately not, Ms. Kurono. I'll be far too busy with graduation."

"When are you going home?"

He smiled thinly, regarding her with cerulean eyes.

"My sister and I will be leaving Saturday night."

"That soon?"

"Yea. It's not like either of us have much in our suites. We can fit everything into my dad's van."

"I will be leaving with my family on Sunday morning."

Kurumu nodded at Kitamori's announcement. She thought about Nijiro's promise to spend the night with her, wondering if she could make it into something more.

"Do you want to do something with your girlfriends tonight?"

Kitamori chuckled as they neared the end of this hall with the last door to the library on their right. The chatter of numerous cafeteria conversations flooded the space.

"Depends on what you have in mind. Why are you asking?"

Kurumu grinned as they came upon the line of glass doors to the interior courtyard on their left. Yukari had already moved to open the first door, holding it open for them. Kurumu strolled through first with Nozomi at her side, turning to regard the others.

"Because Friday is your graduation party. You only have tonight and tomorrow night."

"I'm not that worried. My family is going to visit Chisa's family the day after she gets back from school. We will be having a serious discussion about our future."

Fumusuna grinned as Kitamori tugged his blushing girlfriend closer to his side with the arm holding his bag of snacks. Chisa demurely held her own goods from the school store against her stomach.

"I wanted to do something like that with Nikki but she hasn't told them about us being a thing yet."

Kurumu wagged her finger at him.

"That's because you waited forever to officially make her your girlfriend."

"Fair point. With spring break being only two weeks, it will be over before we could arrange anything through the mail system. I might just try dropping in and see how that works."

Nozomi snorted, crossing her arms below her bosom with her beverage in hand.

"That's too bold for you."

"I'll ask Nikki for permission first."

"Is there a reason for us to just stand here?"

Kurumu giggled at Yukari's complaint. She started off, inspiring the rest of the group to follow.

"We should go on a group date tonight?"

"Group date? Why?"

Kurumu pouted at Fumusuna as they walked deeper into the courtyard. Several students had sat down in the grass with their respective lunch groups.

"I already said why. It's not like you have anything better to do."

"It's a full moon tonight. My girl might get a little frisky."

Nozomi snorted, gesturing to their group. Akari was sitting between Kiba and Nikki. Their three trays were stacked in the middle with empty containers. Off to the side of the trio was Satsuki and Nerume, already starting on their PSC lunch.

"It's not like she's on her cycle. It'll be fine."

"And Ms. Kurono did suggest a group date. We won't let anything happen."

Fumusuna sighed at his friend's remark.

"I don't know if I should be relieved or disappointed."

Kurumu giggled which caught the attention of Kiba. The girl grinned wide with her many fangs showing.

"Are you starting shit again?"

"What do you mean?"

"Bringing her man here."

Kurumu huffed indignantly, kneeling beside Yukari and setting aside her juice can. The witch slipped off the satchel's strap, moving it about in front of her. She unzipped it, reaching in for the bento boxes.

"I'm completely innocent."

Fumusuna grinned as he sat down beside the blushing Nikki.

"I was tagging along with Kitamori."

Kitamori chuckled, sitting down with Chisa by Nerume.

"He speaks the truth. We just happened to bump into Ms. Kurono in the hall."

"Here's your bento."

Yukari presented Nozomi a lime green bento with a black wolf silhouette howling at a white moon. The okami grinned, thanking Yukari as she settled down on Yukari's other side.

"Getting to try out Ms. Sendou's infamous bento box?"

Nozomi giggled at Akari's statement.

"I didn't even ask. She stopped by my homeroom before classes began and told me about it."

"Which I wouldn't have done if I had known how late you arrive at school."

Nozomi pouted as Yukari fetched the periwinkle bento out of her satchel.

"We were twenty minutes early to school."

Kurumu giggled, taking her periwinkle bento.

"Don't mind Yukari. She would get to school an hour early if we didn't slow her down."

Yukari huffed, pulling out her own white bento.

"At least you acknowledge that you are stifling my potential."

Kitamori chuckled, tearing off the clear wrapper about his sandwich.

"Ms. Kurono brought up a notion of a group date tonight. Would you care to join us, Ms. Matsudera?"

"Aren't you playing with fire, going on a date the night of a full moon?"

"That's what I tried to tell Ms. Kurono."

Akari clucked her tongue at the exchange between Kiba and Fumusuna.

"It's just superstitious nonsense. No okami girl is more amorous simply because of the moon."

"Yea. I'm not on my cycle."

"Not like that would stop you."

Nikki scowled at Kiba but she stiffened up when Fumusuna draped an arm over her shoulder.

"Would you want to go on a group date tonight? It would be our last date before spring break."

Nikki pressed against his side, glancing up at him with soft brown eyes.

"Can you afford that?"

"I can manage a dinner and one activity. Maybe karaoke or pool."

"I concur with that agenda. We do have to show up for school tomorrow so we can't be out too late."

Kurumu smirked at Kitamori's remark. She tugged off the top of her periwinkle bento off, retrieving her chopsticks. Noting it was the usual lunch, she pointed at Kitamori with her chopsticks.

"What did you get Chisa for White Day?"

Kitamori laughed heartily, gesturing at his blushing girlfriend.

"Earrings. She's wearing them right now."

Kurumu gasped, realizing the tall girl did have amethyst studs in her lobes which matched her pink eyes.

"Those are pretty."

Chisa blushed darker, bowing her head as she murmured her thanks.

"So what did you get Nikki?"

Fumusuna smirked, rubbing his hand up and down Nikki's far shoulder.

"A collar though I doubt she is wearing it."

"I can't wear something like that to school."

Kiba snickered, leaning back on her palms.

"Did it come with a leash?"

"Nobody asked you!"

Kurumu giggled at Nikki's sharp response. She picked a morsel out of her bento box, stuffing it in her mouth. She sighed as she chewed, enjoying the savory taste.

"My Moka wore a collar for months and nobody fussed over that."

Akari giggled, covering her mouth.

"In all fairness, Ms. Akashiya is a vampire. Nobody in their right mind would make fun of her over that."

"Yea. I still can't get over seeing her without it."

Kiba nodded at Nozomi's sentiment.

"In some ways, she seems like a totally different person."

Kurumu perked up, thinking this was a good time.

"I should mention that Moka and Tsukune are officially a couple now."

Kiba snorted and Akari smiled politely.

"That is something that has been long overdue."

"But good news. I'm assuming that Mr. Aono asked Ms. Akashiya out on White Day?"

"Yea. He came over to her suite and challenged her. You could say that he won her over."

Yukari snorted at their confused expressions.

"It's a vampire thing. Guys have to be stronger than girls."

"That makes sense."

Kitamori nodded at Fumusuna's quick acceptance.

"If I were a girl, I wouldn't want a man that couldn't protect me."

"Whom all will be going on this group date?"

Kurumu grinned at Akari, quickly swallowing down the morsel she just ate.

"I'm assuming these two couples are. Nijiro promised to do something with me tonight so I will run over and tell him about this once I am finished up here."

Akari cocked her head, regarded her inquisitively.

"Why are you wanting to go on a date tonight?"

"He is my boyfriend. I'll be way too busy to spend time with him on Saturday because of graduation."

"But neither of you are graduating."

Kurumu clucked her tongue at Nozomi's remark.

"That doesn't mean that I won't be busy. There are many seniors moving out that day whom I need to say a proper farewell to."

"What about Sunday?"

"Mrs. Takizawa has her retirement party that night. Nijiro may want to avoid that if Tsukune is there."

"Your boyfriend doesn't get along with Mr. Aono?"

Nikki giggled, nudging Fumusuna.

"Kurumu had a huge crush on Mr. Aono for months. It only makes sense that Mr. Amesuki wouldn't want to be around Mr. Aono."

"I don't mind if Ms. Kurono and Mr. Amesuki tag along, but the activities we proposed don't work that well with six. Is there a fourth couple we could include on this?"

Kurumu grinned as she immediately had the answer.

"I'm sure that Moka-"

"Can't because Tsukune is folding papers tonight."

Kurumu laughed at Yukari's quick interjection, feeling silly that she had already forgotten about that.

"Sorry we're late."

The familiar voice brought a smirk to Kurumu's lips. She turned her head as Umizake slowly walked over with Mizore at his side. The snow girl looked paler than usual with one hand resting on the swell of her belly. The other gripped Umizake's side for support while he held a single tray with a PSC meal.

"Mizore is exhausted over dealing with a hyper baby."

Kurumu grinned as the couple settled down next to her.

"How would the two of you feel about going on a group date tonight?"


"Evening, Mr. Inagaki! I have a couple of minors with me!"

Kurumu smiled at Nijiro whom held open the door, following Ms. Idatsu inside the Corner Pockets establishment. The buxom teacher had on a long sleeved, flannel shirt with crisscrossing shades of gray, white and black. Her denim jeans hugged her plump derriere as she strolled into the pool hall.

This first room was dimly lit by fixtures hanging from the black rafters. The walls were painted a dark red while the floor was covered in black wood tiles. A wooden counter sealed with a glossy finish stretched off to the left of the main entrance, flanked by wooden stools with black leather cushions.

"Well if it isn't Kimara. What brings you in here on a school night?"

The man behind the counter grinned as the teacher approached the counter. He had on a black vest over a white dress shirt. His short, rugged locks were as dark as his eyes.

"Just helping these kids find the rest of their group."

Ms. Idatsu gestured at Kurumu, drawing the man's attention. Kurumu shuddered as the man appraised her appearance favorably. Forcing a smile as she tried to ignore the lecherous thoughts, she glanced at Nijiro. She beckoned to him and was relieved when he quickly came to her side. The man's attention shifted away from her to measure up her boyfriend.

"I do have some other students that wandered in here a few minutes ago. They're in the back room using one of the tables. Stick around and have a drink."

"I really shouldn't."

"It's on the house."

"In that case, I won't refuse the hospitality."

Kurumu frowned as the teacher clambered up onto the stool. The man pulled a glass out from beneath the counter, pulling a flexible black hose out. He sprayed into the glass, filling it up with a golden liquid which quickly foamed up.

Nijiro patted Kurumu's shoulder.

"I'll go check on the others."

Kurumu whimpered a soft protest as her boyfriend wandered off. He stepped down through an archway into the adjacent space. Sighing, she glanced about this stuffy room. The fans spinning lazily overhead could not be felt. Two doors at the far end of the room were marked clearly for different genders.

"Come have a seat, young lady. I've seen you in here several times and have yet to chat with you."

"Don't be flirting with high school girls."

The man huffed, pushing the filled glass across the counter to Ms. Idatsu.

"I'm far too old to be chasing the skirts of teenagers."

Kurumu reluctantly wandered over to the counter as the man started filling another glass with a white nozzle. This liquid was clear. Smiling nervously, she rested her arms on the counter.

"I'm guessing the two of you must know each other fairly well."

The man chuckled, finishing his task. He put the nozzle on a rack with several different colored nozzles. He scooted the glass over to Kurumu.

"Course I do. Kimara used to hang out with my son back in the day."

"That was a long time ago."

The man favored Kimara a fanged grin as she took a sip from her frothy drink.

"It doesn't feel like the two you graduated that long ago."

"It's been eight years, old man."

Kurumu laughed softly, taking a sip from her warm glass. The water was also warm.

"Suppose it has been. I should check up on my boy over the break. Take advantage of the open campus."

Kurumu cocked her head, uninterested in drinking warm water.

"Your son doesn't live in Mononoke?"

"Naw. Hanzou took off for Moegara right after graduation with Kenji. Normally I pay him a visit around his birthday but the whole town was on lockdown because of that bank robbery."

Kurumu smiled softly, feeling better now that the guy had ceased regarding her like a sexual object.

"We haven't been properly introduced. I'm Kurono Kurumu."

The man smirked, bowing his head slightly.

"Inagaki Manjiro, at your service."

"The young man that came in with me is Amesuki Nijiro, my boyfriend."

"I've seen you with him before. I'd wager the two of you are undines."

Kurumu laughed, debating on if she should correct him.

"Well, Nijiro is an undine. I'm only part."

"Mixed breed, eh? Many of us locals are."

Kurumu braved another swig of the tepid water.

"How long has this place been open?"

A thoughtful look crossed Mr. Inagaki's face.

"Can't say exactly when. It was within two years of me buying the place. I had to have this place gutted to put in a bar. It used to be a little hobby shop of sorts."

"What happened to the original owners?"

"Died in the fire. Elder Kunai gave me quite a good price to take over the loan."

Kurumu grimaced, wondering why that man was allowed to sell other people's property. He was just a bank owner. Did he really own the whole town?

"You wouldn't happen to know of my mother, Kurono Ageha?"

"Can't say that I do."

"How is Hanzou doing?"

Mr. Inagaki chuckled, turning to regard the teacher. Ms. Idatsu had already drained half her glass.

"You could always join me. I have room in the car."

"I'm not going with you to see him."

"I bet Hanzou would love to see you."

Ms. Idatsu sighed, hefting up her glass.

"He would only be embarrassed if I showed up out of the blue."

"Stubborn and thick headed. All of those boys loved you."

Ms. Idatsu grumbled as she took a hearty swig. She lowered the glass back to the counter.

"You know that he confessed to me the day of graduation. It would just be awkward."

"Yes. The dumb boy should have asked you out years before that. All he ever did was talk about you."

"How long have you known his son?"

Ms. Idatsu sighed, slouching her shoulders.

"Feels like forever. We were in elementary school together before the place burned down. I occasionally saw Hanzou over the years before high school but it was not like we hung out or anything."

"Kimara has always been a tomboy. She spent most of her time helping her father in his shop, fixing up cars and farm equipment. This dummy decided to hang out with the local boys when she started up high school, despite being as womanly as you are."

"I had nothing in common with other girls."

"Completely clueless. You think a fifteen year old boy could just be friends with a girl looking like you. All of Hanzou's friends loved you. I kept thinking I was going to get news that my boy finally got the balls to ask you out or that one of his friends did."

Ms. Idatsu sighed, taking another sip.

"Maybe things would have turned out differently if one of them had."

"Why didn't any of them ask her out?"

Mr. Inagaki chuckled at Kurumu, crossing his arms.

"Because Takehiko told Hanzou's friends that Kimara was his woman. He was sort of their leader."

"It would have been nice if he had told me that."

Kurumu nodded thoughtfully.

"Did you have a crush on this Takehiko?"

"Not really. I tried to not think about those things."

"Completely clueless."

"I wasn't clueless. Of course I knew that they loved my tits. But if I had asked any of them out, the whole group would have fallen apart. I didn't want that on my shoulders. So I kept my distance. I treated them like they treated each other. Guys don't hug or hold hands. It was always minimum physical contact."

She paused to take a drink.

"Unless they were fighting."

"You had to know that half of those fights were over you."

Kurumu smiled softly, appreciating the dilemma the teacher had faced.

"What happened to this Takehiko?"

Ms. Idatsu shivered and Mr. Inagaki grimaced.

"Dumb boy picked the wrong fight. Got himself and his buddy, Shuto, killed on Sports Day during their last year of high school."

"It was all my fault."

"No. Takehiko could have brought teachers in. It didn't have to end that way."

"What happened?"

The teacher sat quietly for a long moment, staring into her drink. Feeling uneasy, Kurumu lifted her own glass to her lips, taking a sip.

"Long story short, two pureblood thugs decided they should rape Kimara."

"Sheesh, old man. You didn't have to tell her."

"But it was a long time ago."

"It doesn't always feel that way."

The bartender nodded, glancing at Kurumu.

"They had beaten and gagged her. One was holding her down while the other had his way with her. They were switching off when Takehiko came around."

Ms. Idatsu gripped the glass tightly.

"It wasn't like they planned to kill those boys."

"Doesn't matter. Maybe Kuyo would have looked the other way if it had been monstrels raping you. But he definitely couldn't when it was two purebloods."

Ms. Idatsu took in a deep breath.

"It just spiraled out of control. A bunch of people showed up, including Kuyo. I remember his eyes. It was like he had lost his mind. He laughed and told Takehiko and Shuto that murder was a crime punishable by death. He enjoyed killing them. It's crazy that I remember that more clearly than the rape."

Mr. Inagaki sighed, shaking his head.

"It didn't help that one of those purebloods they killed was cousins to a member in his PSC. Kuyo was always prowling about the town like a caged beast, looking for a reason to kill someone. Takehiko gave him a reason and Kuyo acted within his authority."

"He just killed them and left me there. Never said a word to me."

Kurumu grimaced. While Kuyo had changed a little since his forced resignation from Yokai Academy, nobody would ever accuse him of being a sociable person.

"Why did those boys rape you?"

Ms. Idatsu sighed heavily, downing the last of her drink.

"I wasn't clueless. I was a buxom girl always hanging out with boys. It did not take long for rumors to circulate around the school that I was just a whore, fucking all of my friends."

Kurumu flinched at that hateful word which had been leveled upon herself and her mother so many times that she could have never kept count.

"Did Kuyo ever talk to you after you started working for the school?"

"No. He ignored me and I never felt comfortable starting a conversation with him. He probably didn't remember killing the two boys that saved me."

"Maybe he just didn't know what he should say."

Ms. Idatsu sighed, pushing her empty glass across the counter.

"Doesn't matter. Thanks for the drink. I should take Ms. Kurono over to her friends."

Mr. Inagaki grabbed the glass, favoring the teacher a smile as she got up from the stool.

"Sorry about bringing up the past but I still think you should have given my boy a chance. If you had said yes, it would have been you instead of Kenji that he ran off with."

Ms. Idatsu managed a laugh as she motioned for Kurumu to join her.

"Yes, well I wish Hanzou and Kenji a prosperous life together."

"My boy doesn't swing that way."

Ms. Idatsu drawled out a dubious note as she turned Kurumu about, steering her towards the archway.

"I'm holding you responsible if he does end up like that."

Kurumu giggled at the man's threat as they stepped down into the next room. This space also lacked windows but was much better lit. Fluorescent lighting was placed over each of the sixteen pool tables placed in pairs about the room. Three of these were in use by locals. Black cushioned benches lined the walls which were interrupted by racks holding pool sticks of varying lengths.

"Looks like someone finally tired of socializing with the local behind the counter."

Kurumu pouted as she approached the only group of students present. Her boyfriend stood beside Kitamori while Chisa lingered nearby, holding a pool stick. Nikki was snuggling up against Fumusuna's side, making it impossible for him to play.

"That was the owner of this place. His son graduated from Yokai Academy with Ms. Idatsu."

Kitamori chuckled, turning his gaze upon the teacher.

"Evening, Ms. Idatsu. We did not expect to see you here."

The teacher laughed softly, placing her hand on Kurumu's shoulder as they stopped by the group.

"Ms. Kurono asked for a ride to town after detention. She was trying to catch up with you."

"And you weren't at the Sand Witch diner like we discussed."

Fumusuna snickered as he awkwardly wielded his pool stick.

"Last we heard, your man was too broke to come along."

"Well I had a change of heart."

Kurumu smirked, having stopped by Nijiro's homeroom before reporting to detention. She had offered to make him dinner at her place to spare him the cost of affording a meal in town.

"My boyfriend also got to meet the illustrator of the sleazy comic I was goaded into modeling for."

"And I still think you should have nothing to do with Ms. Uboku."

"She's fine, Nijiro. There was never any malice behind her actions, unlike Juri whom has always secretly hated me behind my back."

"Were you sharing detention with Ms. Uboku?"

Kurumu nodded at Nikki's query.

"Mhm. I guess we'll be using the art building for detention from here on out since they are going to remodel the disciplinary room with the rest of the rooms in the elective wing."

"I trust that you are behaving yourself in my friend's establishment."

Nikki blushed at Ms. Idatsu's statement. She nodded as her boyfriend snickered beside her.

"This troublesome girl keeps kissing me."

"There's nothing wrong with kisses."

He snorted, pulling away from an attempted peck on his chin.

"You are slowly whittling away my willpower to resist you, pup. Keep it up and you'll end up in my bed."

Nikki huffed, continuing to cling to him.

"I already said that I'm not on my cycle."

"But I'm always on my cycle. Don't test me."

"You don't scare me. You have a roommate."

"I'm sure that I could convince Koya to shack up somewhere else for the night."

"Don't even try it, Mr. Fumusuna."

Fumusuna sighed as Nikki stole another kiss on his neck. He shot the teacher a pleading look.

"You see what I have to put up with."

"As a faculty member, I can't condone any suggestions of couples spending the night together."

Kurumu shared a glance with Nijiro. He looked like he had been caught committing a crime. She smirked at how silly he was to take this warning seriously.

"So, Kitamori. What happened with the Sand Witch?"

"We quickly decided to eat elsewhere. The guy working the counter made the girls uncomfortable."

"He was hitting on me."

Ms. Idatsu snickered at Nikki's protest.

"You would think Mr. Tokinatsu wouldn't flirt with girls while they are with their boyfriends. That old lecher must be getting desperate."

"You know that creep?"

"Unfortunately I do, Mr. Fumusuna. He used to come to the school and flirt with me and every other girl that caught his fancy. Finally got kicked off campus for good after a girl claimed he raped her during the cultural festival back in 2001."

"He raped a girl?!"

Ms. Idatsu laughed, shaking her head.

"He didn't, Ms. Kurono. The girl adjusted her story to molestation when she realized that Kuyo would have her tested to see if she was raped or not. But there were already enough complaints against that dirty old bastard that Kuyo decided it was best to just ban him under threat of imprisonment if he ever set foot on campus again."

Kurumu nodded dumbly, wondering how long someone could be put in prison for trespassing. Guessing that was unimportant, she looked back at Kitamori whom now had a pool stick.

"Did you guys eat dinner?"

Kitamori chuckled, draping an arm over Chisa's shoulder.

"Yea. We grabbed a quick dinner from Meals to Go before coming here."

Fumusuna snickered, nodding towards the archway.

"That old man behind the counter refused to let us inside with food. Made us eat on his doorstep."

Nikki pouted, snuggling against his side.

"He wouldn't even let us throw away our garbage here."

Kitamori chuckled, nodding.

"Yea. We were only here a few minutes before you guys showed up. I think we had only two games?"

"That sounds about right. Do you plan to play escort all night?"

Ms. Idatsu laughed at Fumusuna's lighthearted question.

"It has been a while since I've played a game of pool. I can stick around and play a few games with Ms. Kurono and Mr. Amesuki. I'll even pay."

"I couldn't impose."

"I insist, Mr. Amesuki. I can't be leaving this place in a worse mood then I came in with."

"That's awfully generous of you. You have my thanks."

Ms. Idatsu chuckled, patting Kurumu's shoulder before stalking off.

"Come on then. We need to pick out our sticks."

Fumusuna sighed dramatically.

"My final date of my high school life is going to end on a tame note because a teacher is present."

Ms. Idatsu snickered, stopping in front of the rack of sticks.

"I'm not going to watch you that closely, Mr. Fumusuna. Just don't do anything so obvious that I would be forced as a faculty member to intervene."

Nikki giggled, sneaking another kiss on his chin.

"So kisses will be fine."

"I swear you're going to get it tonight."

Nikki drawled out a dubious note.

"I believe that when it happens."

Ms. Idatsu chuckled, checking a pool stick to make sure it was long enough for her.

"Be careful, young lady. I've been accused of not knowing where the line is for appropriate behavior."

"Is that so?"

Ms. Idatsu smirked at Fumusuna.

"Word around town is I'm completely clueless."