"And that concludes the reports from our class representatives."
Sawayaka Mikomi sat at the head of the round table inside the meeting room of the student council building. The local monstrel was a traditional beauty with rich black hair cascading down her back. Her bangs were cut across her brow in the hime style. The first year with powder blue eyes had been the representative of her father's homeroom before becoming the new student council president.
To Mikomi's right was the golden haired Amatsu, student council secretary. Nijiro, the student council vice president, sat on the other side of Mikomi. The other nine chairs spaced about this round table had all been claimed by third years. This round table was more like a continuous counter with an open space in the center. Unlike her predecessor, Mikomi preferred to sit at the table.
Standing behind Mikomi in front of chalkboard was Ishikure Yama, student council treasurer. The second year had his silver locks trimmed short. His squared lenses were held in a green frame resting upon his nose. His little sister, Iwa, and her friend, Anko, stood near him.
The other two members of the auto club stood behind the two that were seated to the right of Amatsu. The freckled girl with her shale bangs clipped away from her eyes was Makenuki Ritsuki. Her black frames were sprinkled with glitter. Jishin was wearing his big glasses that resembled a scuba mask.
The guy sitting next to Doroishi had his short, dark locks styled in a simple side part and square glasses. That was Tsuchiyama Yomei and he had a sister in first year class one. On his right was the golden haired Shiruba. Horie sat between the blond and Herikuda whom had the seat directly across from Mikomi. The popular girl always took that spot even when Kaneshiro Hokuto had been student council president.
On Nijiro's left were two of the band captains. The guy with the wavy, cerulean, shoulder length hair was Kawakuchi from Aranami. The undine sat closer to Nijiro. The other one with the glossy black hair was Sagimori. The tanuki was from Aranoiji and so was the elegant beauty sitting in the chair beside him. That dark haired debutante was Shikikawa from the archery team.
The last student at the table was Kosai Mirai, the salutatorian. The other class representatives from the fencing club hovered behind the ginger with the offside ponytail. This included Shikichi and the Akebara sisters. The tall girl with the shoulder length, fiery orange curls was Asakira Yume from first year class one. The salamander hailed from Moegara.
Everyone was wearing school uniforms. Kurumu had even worn her school jacket though she had left it open. Her phone and keys were in her pockets. She stood with Yukari, Moka and Kokoa in the corner of this room behind Nijiro. She was the only first year present whom was not a class representative.
Tsukune stood on the other side of the room. The guy standing next to Tsukune was Unsei Keiji from class seven. His glossy black hair was plagued with cowlicks like most tanuki. Though his parents had a home in Mononoke, he lived in the boys' dormitory on Tsukune's floor.
Hovering near Tsukune and Unsei were two other first year guys. The effeminate one with the long, golden tresses was Amatsu's cousin, Heniki, from class eight. The other was Noboru Kuroi, Michiko's boyfriend, from class five. His short, dark locks were peppered with an ashen color and were naturally feathered. The tengu was from Hongu of the Okayama prefecture.
"I would like to thank all of the class representatives for their commitment to the school."
Kurumu's focus was drawn back to Mikomi. The young woman fidgeted with a small gavel.
"I know that this year has been more tumultuous than the last two or three years. Lots of big changes have happened. The PSC leadership has entirely changed. A decade long conspiracy to assassinate the former Headmaster that involved Mr. Saitou and my father was exposed."
Mikomi paused after mentioning her father whom had died at Mr. Saitou's hands for his betrayal.
"The outcasts being manipulated by these conspirators were disbanded. My predecessor's plot to destroy this school and all of Mononoke by forcing a merger with the real world was thwarted."
Mikomi looked up with a slight smile.
"For those whom were unaware of that, know that Mr. Kaneshiro was also being manipulated by the same man that convinced my father to commit his act of treason. Mr. Kaneshiro was not responsible for the chaos caused by Lilith's Mirror during the cultural festival."
The gathering remained respectfully silent in the pause that followed.
"We have shared a difficult year, spending much of it outside of regular classrooms. It started with Lord Chiki's curfew imposed on us for a bank robbery that was planned by that third party whom caused so much trouble for us. And then the destruction caused by the mirror made much of the school unusable. We even had an extended winter break so that most of the repairs could be finished."
Mikomi nodded, continuing to fidget with her gavel.
"I want to thank you all again for being model students in these troublesome times. I believe that it was your examples that encouraged other students to not give up on this school."
There were not many guests to this gathering. Technically the former student council members did not have to be here. This trio stood behind Herikuda and were next to a trio of dance club third years whom were part of the graduation committee. Kaneshiro was understandably absent.
The former student council vice president was Utsutei Mikado. He was a tengu from Koutoukumo with golden brown, short locks that were feathered. The former secretary with the glossy black hair was Komeichi Junko, daughter of the mayor of Aserutani. The guy with the ruffled black hair hiding his eyes was Okumatsu Sen, former student council treasurer. He came from Shizukana.
The head of the graduation committee was the former dance club president, Akiramochi Ichika. She was a beautiful young woman with vibrant, sky blue tresses spilling down to the bottom hem of her skirt. The sylph was from Koutoukumo while her two friends were from Shizukana. The shorter girl had jet black hair held up in braided twin tails. The other had her banana yellow locks styled in a pixie bob cut.
Hidaka Himawari from the archery team was a vice class manager. The girl had short, bubblegum pink curls and was standing by her roommate, Okutomo Sana. Okutomo was about Kurumu's height and had her sky blue hair pinned back with a pink heart barrette. She was the class representative for third year class four and had been in charge of the yearbook committee. Both girls were from Shizukana.
"Does anyone have anything to say before we start talking about graduation?"
"I'd like to be recognized for how awesome I am for being here."
Several student chuckled at the remark from the second year baseball player hanging out with the group of class representatives whom were on the tennis team. The grinning sylph had short, bluish white hair.
"You're technically class one's vice manager. I'm the one that's really stepping up here."
The speaker was Genkidzukeru of the tennis club and he was a tengu. Both he and the baseball player were from Hateshinai. His chestnut locks were short and feathered. Genkidzukeru was from second year class five which was represented by Udetama Imi of the fencing club whom was notorious for neglecting her duties. Ueshiba, the vice manager for class five, had died shortly before the cultural festival.
"We are trying to be serious here."
Yaisoku Modoka from second year class two gestured at the pair. The jorougumo had her dark bangs held back with a clip in the shape of an arachnid. Mizudake from Kurumu's home economics class stood with this group, being the representative for second year class four.
"If there is nothing else, the first year and second year class representatives may go. There won't be another student council meeting this school year. I hope that many of you return as representatives for your new homerooms next school year."
A loud clearing of a throat drew attention to a stout fellow with his dark locks hemmed in a crew cut. That was Machida Ebisu, representative of second year class six. He had ran against Mikomi for the student council president position.
"Ms. Sawayaka. Whom will be speaking on behalf of the underclassmen at graduation?"
"That hasn't been decided yet but it usually goes to the valedictorian."
Makenuki huffed at Amatsu's statement.
"Our valedictorian skips too many of these meetings to be given that role."
Jishin snickered at the slight upon Hosokoun Habiki of the kendo club.
"He probably sees no point coming to these meetings with you being his class representative."
"He is my vice manager. He could still come instead of leaving everything to me."
"We do have several qualified members present for that honor if Mr. Hosokoun refuses the role."
"What are the qualifications to speak for the underclassmen at graduation?"
Nijiro turned his attention upon Asakira whom had posed the question.
"The speaker representing the underclassmen is supposed to be in the top ten academically and an active member in the student government. It's usually a second year."
"Mr. Hosokoun can't be seen as active in student government."
Nijiro chuckled at Makenuki's protest.
"He's listed as your vice manager which satisfies the criteria."
"I can speak with Mr. Hosokoun."
Attention shifted to Kosai whom was leaning back in her chair.
"I'll see him over the weekend. He likes to practice."
Kosai was talking about kendo. The fencing and kendo clubs shared a training facility.
"It would be best to pick an alternative now in case he refuses."
Mikomi nodded at Machida's advice.
"That would be prudent. Whom all is qualified, Mr. Amesuki?"
"Hold up! I'm probably qualified for this!"
Makenuki scowled at Mizudake whom hopped with her hand held up.
"You are barely in the top ten."
Mizudake lowered her hand with a shrug.
"So? Mr. Hosokoun barely participates. If I'm qualified, I'm qualified. I've placed in the top ten five times in the nine exams that we have taken and never less than fifteenth."
"Is anybody able to confirm Ms. Mizudake's official ranking."
"She is tenth, Ms. Sawayaka. I checked the overall rankings before we took our exams this week."
Kurumu smirked at Machida's declaration. Naturally he would know the rankings.
"And I am clearly second. This shouldn't be up for discussion."
Nijiro chuckled at Makenuki's ire.
"Out of curiosity, where did I place?"
"You are tied for third with Ms. Amatsu. Mr. Jishin took fifth."
Makenuki wagged a finger at the blond beside her.
"You better support me on this."
"I wouldn't dream to oppose you, princess."
"Where does my sister rank overall?"
Machida turned to address the younger Akebara sister.
"Ms. Akebara was fifteenth while Mr. Ishikure was fourteenth. Eleventh place was a tie between Ms. Shikichi and Ms. Genzaimuta."
Kurumu smiled thinly at his mention of the absent class one representative.
"I believe we are getting sidetracked here. Does any of our qualified candidates wish to challenge Ms. Makenuki for the position if Mr. Hosokoun refuses?"
Jishin snickered at Amatsu's question.
"I think I prefer breathing."
Makenuki swatted his chest with the back of his hand.
"Oh hush. I'm not some tyrant."
"Anything you say, princess."
"Mr. Amesuki?"
Nijiro smiled at Amatsu.
"I have no interest in challenging our salutatorian."
"Neither do I. That just leaves you, Ms. Mizudake. Do you want us to vote between the two of you?"
Mizudake grimaced when attention shifted back to her.
"Would either of you vote for me?"
Amatsu smiled apologetically.
"She is the salutatorian."
A guy with short strawberry curls chuckled, placing his hand on Mizudake's shoulder. He was Nagashima, a third year tennis player and class representative. The girl next to him with her greenish tresses pulled back in a high ponytail was Yoseibi Midori, another third year tennis player and class representative. Both were sylphs from Koutoukumo.
"Let her have it. She's earned it."
Mizudake sighed dramatically.
"Fine. I won't make a fuss."
"Then the matter is settled. Ms. Makenuki shall speak at the graduation ceremony on behalf of the underclassmen if Mr. Hosokoun refuses."
"Thank you, Ms. Sawayaka. I intend to see you again next year."
Mikomi smiled as Machida started to walk away.
"And thank you, Mr. Machida. I will be looking forward to that."
"Time to get out of here."
Nagashima gestured for the group of tennis players around him to follow him to the exit passageway.
"Hold on, Mr. Nagashima. We will be talking about graduation."
"I'll get the details from Mikado. You all have a wonderful weekend."
Kurumu grinned as the baseball player joined the tennis team in their exodus. Tsukune stood by himself on that side of the room. She sucked in a breath, glancing behind her as Kokoa stalked off. The vampire moved to join the other girls of her fencing club whom were slowly drifting around the table.
"Where's Kokoa going?"
"She's leaving with her club."
"Are you two sticking around?"
Moka pulled Yukari close to her side.
"For now. I need to chat with Ms. Horie and Ms. Shiruba."
"Now for graduation business. Have you secured the location for your party, Ms. Akiramochi?"
The dance club senior stepped forward as Kokoa pranced by to catch up with the departing fencing club. The sylph smiled with confidence.
"We have Meetings reserved for eight hours on Friday. The doors will open at two but the party won't start until three. A catered dinner will be provided at six."
Meetings was the fancy place that Ginei had reserved for Nikki's birthday back in September.
"Can underclassmen attend?"
Mikomi giggled as other students shot Kurumu curious glances.
"This is a graduation party, Ms. Kurono."
"But what if some third years want to bring guests?"
Akiramochi shook her head firmly.
"The catered dinner isn't sized for guests. It will barely be enough for the third years if we all attend."
"We do have budget restraints."
Kurumu pouted at Ishikure's addition.
"But what about the third years with first year girlfriends?"
Herikuda giggled, waving a dismissive hand.
"Those girls can survive one event without their boyfriends. It will be best to keep this exclusive to those of the graduating class."
"But it would only be like a dozen."
"It will be fine, Ms. Kurono. This is for us. It's not like we are inviting family members."
Kurumu whimpered at Herikuda. She thought about Nikki and Chisa.
"But-"
Moka nudged her firmly.
"Don't forget that Miyamoto's birthday party is that afternoon."
"I wasn't asking for my sake."
"Are there any other details that need to be discussed about the graduation party?"
Akiramochi shook her head at Mikomi's query.
"Nothing that wasn't discussed last meeting. Any third years wanting to help us decorate are more than welcome to show up early to the venue."
Sagimori chuckled, patting the table.
"You can count me in. I have no intentions of showing up to school on Friday."
"Don't do that. You'll get marked absent if you miss first period."
Sagimori waved his hand dismissively at Kosai.
"It will be fine."
"How much time do you think it will take to decorate?"
"It should only take an hour. The staff might let us in earlier than two."
"If you can find that out over the weekend, let me know."
Akiramochi nodded at Herikuda.
"I will. I doubt that the room will be in use before our party."
"It's probably too much to hope that we could do it the night before."
Horie chuckled softly at Herikuda's remark.
"They won't allow that. Too much liability."
"Yea. Somebody might wreck the place if we did that."
Herikuda smirked at Shiruba.
"Why would anyone do that?"
"The track record for the year hasn't been favorable. Best keep things safe."
Mikomi giggled, twirling the gavel in her hand.
"If that is all we have from the graduation committee, we should talk about the graduation ceremony. It will start at nine next Saturday morning. The band will be playing during the procession."
"That is correct. The band will be practicing in the gym all of next week to prepare for that."
Sagimori snickered at Kawakuchi's confirmation.
"Because we can't practice in our band room while it's being remodeled."
"After the procession, the salutatorian will receive the class diploma. After that will be the speech from one of the faculty."
"Which member of the faculty will be speaking at our ceremony?"
Mikomi smiled at Kosai's inquiry.
"I understand that Mr. Maruyama was given that honor."
"But Mrs. Takizawa is retiring."
Mikomi grinned at Kurumu's mild protest.
"So is Mr. Maruyama and he is a third year teacher."
"He's also been here a lot longer than Ms. Nekonome."
Kurumu grimaced at Herikuda's input, knowing they had a point.
"After Mr. Maruyama's speech will be the speech from a member of the community. Mr. Tensai was picked this year since his daughter is graduating."
There was a slight murmur of approval for that in the pause of Mikomi's explanation.
"Then it will be the speech from the student representing the underclassmen followed by Ms. Horie's speech. I trust that you are prepared."
The valedictorian laughed under her breath.
"As ready as I can be."
"After that we will participate in a song before we are officially dismissed. The teachers will be spending the rest of the morning in their homerooms for pictures and farewells."
"That includes Mrs. Takizawa?"
Mikomi grinned at Kurumu.
"It does, Ms. Kurono. This is for the third years so that they can visit with the homeroom teachers they had in their prior years. Everything should be wrapped up before lunch but the cafeteria will not be open that day. You'll either have to get your meal in town or in the Kurai dining hall."
"And then we are free to leave campus."
Mikomi laughed at Herikuda's declaration.
"Yes. You'll have to arrange for a member of the staff to verify that your suite is clean and turn in your keys before running off."
"We have the mother of Fumiyo's little admirer scheduled to check us out that afternoon."
As Horie blushed slightly, Kurumu perked up with interest.
"You're leaving on Saturday?"
"Mhm. Yumie's parents and my sister will help us move out. With any luck we'll be gone before dinner."
"Are you going straight to Hamanigahara?"
Shiruba giggled, shaking her head.
"No. We will spend the night with my parents. We won't be dropping in on my uncle until Sunday."
"Well that answers my question. See you around, Kurumu."
Kurumu frowned as Moka steered Yukari away from her.
"What do you mean?"
"Have fun with your boyfriend."
Kurumu pouted as her friends made their way over to Tsukune. While it was too early for the newspaper club meeting, Moka planned to hang out with Tsukune even if it meant playing video games in his dorm with the kappa guys.
"Is there any other business for the student council to discuss on our final meeting?"
Kurumu shivered, thinking how the school year was drawing to an end. All that was left was getting her exams back and maybe retakes if she was unlucky. These last two weeks of school would be very lax.
"I only want to say that I am proud and thankful to be leaving this school in your capable hands."
Mikomi smiled as other third years echoed Utsutei's sentiment.
"Then I shall conclude this meeting. Enjoy your weekend."
Mikomi rapped her gavel on the table, signaling the third years to depart. Tsukune walked out with Moka and Yukari as Kurumu drifted over to Nijiro's side. She placed her hand on his shoulder.
"Mikomi. Do you have a moment?"
The local girl looked up at her as the other third years vacated their chairs. The Ishikure siblings drifted over to join the auto club members.
"What can I help you with?"
"I was curious about how well you know Elder Kunai."
Mikomi smiled thinly.
"I can't say that I know that much about him."
"Do you know about the rumor concerning my mother and his grandson?"
"Is this really the time for this?"
Kurumu pouted at Nijiro's tone.
"I had a rather unpleasant encounter with Elder Kunai at the bank yesterday."
Nijiro's periwinkle eyes hardened.
"What did he say?"
"Just confirming what Mr. Fujita told me. The elder threatened to talk to the school. He really doesn't want me in his town."
"I really don't know what you are talking about, Ms. Kurono. My father had nothing good to say about Elder Kunai and encouraged me to avoid that man. It sounds like you should too."
Kurumu managed a smile for Mikomi.
"Thanks. I was a little worried that everybody was being polite."
Nijiro chuckled softly.
"It certainly is a relief to know that this rumor isn't well known."
"Well I told you that Mr. Fujita claimed many of the townspeople dismissed his conspiracy theories."
"You did. Are you ready for our usual date?"
Kurumu smirked at him, noting that most of the students had cleared out.
"We should change our clothes first."
"Of course. Shall I meet you at Ms. Shirayuki's place in an hour?"
Kurumu smiled, wondering if sleeping in his arms would be how she ended this day.
"Yea. In an hour."
Kurumu nodded at Umizake whom was holding the door open. The young man was dressed in a simple black tee shirt and denim jeans. Mizore lingered at his side, absently touching his back. The snow girl was wearing a mint green sundress. The tiny straps of the garment rested on the thick straps of her black sports bra. The garment stretched with the curves of her bosom and pregnant belly. Purple and white striped stockings were drawn up over her knees.
Kurumu strolled out of the theater, holding Nijiro's hand. Wanting to match Mizore, Kurumu had on her bright pink sundress with her lacy black bra despite having a strapless she could have worn. She had even pulled her socks up to her knees, wearing school loafers just like the snow girl. Nijiro had donned a dark blue polo with a pair of khakis.
Her lavender purse dangled by its strap upon her left shoulder. In her left hand was a black plastic bag with the name and logo for Sports Station. It contained a dark blue, one piece swimsuit with black hem. The fabric had stretched nicely over her curves and even came most of the way down her thighs. Nijiro surmised that she could avoid renting a scuba wetsuit now that she had this.
"So what did you think of the movie?"
Kurumu contemplated the movie she had just watched as she took note of the pair of two story buildings across the street from the theater. Both had many of windows boarded up but the one that was on the corner of the intersection to her left did not have the doors blocked. She glanced over her shoulder to regard the tall theater as Umizake strolled out with Mizore latched to his side. Posters of movies were mounted to the wall on both sides of the main entrance.
"It wasn't as romantic as I had hoped."
Nijiro chuckled, letting go of her hand. He stepped in closer, slipping his arm behind her back.
"It was a heartwarming tale."
Kurumu pouted, allowing him to turn her about to face the theater.
"I was hoping that she would be the professor's beloved equation."
Umizake smirked, steering Mizore over to them.
"Still a love story. Even if it was about math."
"If only more of our educators were that passionate about their professions."
Kurumu frowned at the two guys.
"You should be passionate about people. Ideals don't love you back."
Nijiro laughed, holding her against his side more firmly.
"That certainly is more practical when you put it that way."
"It's only practical if the feelings are mutual. Unrequited love isn't an enjoyable burden."
Kurumu smirked at the tall guy, recalling how apathetic he had acted about his arranged marriage.
"Speaking from experience?"
"Ideals may not love you back, but they won't ever reject you. It's easier to become passionate for something when you are completely in control."
Kurumu thought that was cowardice but held back her tongue. Despite feeling Nijiro's warmth against her, this conversation brought Tsukune to mind. He was still very idealistic. And he had been stubborn with his claims of loving Hatsue for months. Just like she was being stubborn about what she had with Nijiro. It was easy to fall in love with the concept of someone. It was different to actually love them.
"What do you feel like doing next?"
Umizake let out a contemplative sound.
"Well our lunch should be settled by now. Would you be up for something like skating or mini golf?"
Mizore groaned, nuzzling her head against his side.
"No. Can't we lie down somewhere?"
"But we just spent almost two hours sitting."
Mizore turned her sapphire eyes on Kurumu.
"Sitting isn't lying down."
Nijiro gestured towards the end of the street. Beyond some vacant buildings was an intersection with a three story building on the other side. The street became a dirt path as it continued into a barren field which was all that was left of the town blocks that had been destroyed by the fire.
"We could rent a karaoke room. They have couches."
"I don't want to sing."
Kurumu giggled at Mizore's protest.
"You won't have to. We can do all of the singing."
"Are you good with that?"
Mizore sighed at Umizake's question.
"I guess that's okay."
Both guys took that as the cue to steer the girls in the direction of the Siren's Lullaby.
"We should call it a day after this. I don't have the money for another meal in Mononoke."
Kurumu smiled apologetically at Umizake.
"I am grateful that you bought the swimsuit for me."
"Mizore insisted."
"And I'll pay you back."
Umizake chuckled at Mizore's promise.
"Don't worry about it. Unless you have issue with it being a gift from us."
They reached the intersection with the Siren's Lullaby on their left. It was the only structure on that side of the street. A canopy stretched out to the pavement, protecting the main entrance.
"I really want a job. It sucks not being able to buy gifts for my friends."
Nijiro chuckled as they crossed the intersection, stepping into the shade of the canopy.
"With how many friends you have, you'd never have time for school."
The sensor picked up their presence, triggering the door to open. They strolled into the lobby which was covered in red carpet. A red cushioned couch was pushed against the wall on their right with an opening to a hall in the far corner of the room. A mahogany counter topped with white marble boxed in the rest of the wall in front of them. A door on that wall was likely for the manager's office.
Standing near a brass bell resting upon the counter was the owner of the establishment. Mr. Ishizuka was sporting a pinstripe dress shirt with black slacks. He looked up at their approach with a thin smile.
"Afternoon, Ms. Kurono. Feels like I haven't seen you in a month."
Kurumu laughed, wondering if it had been that long ago. The last time had been on Tora's birthday.
"Afternoon, Mr. Ishizuka. Could we have a room on the second floor?"
He favored her a genuine smile.
"Of course. Will it just be one room?"
Nijiro nodded, removing his arm to fish his wallet out of his pocket.
"How much is that?"
"One thousand yen."
Nijiro pulled a note out, handing it over to the manager.
"Very good. Here is your key."
Mr. Ishizuka reached below the counter with the yen in hand. His hands came back up with a key instead of the money. He presented it to Nijiro.
"I'll call you when your hour is almost over."
Nijiro sounded an acknowledgment as he started for the opening. Kurumu followed her boyfriend into a central hallway which ran the length of the building. She understood that this first room on her right was where Mr. Ishizuka lived while most of the remaining rooms on the first floor of this apartment building had yet to be remodeled into karaoke rooms.
"Thank you for renting the room."
Nijiro waved a hand dismissively.
"It's no trouble. Thanks to their generosity, I can do this and afford a nice white day gift for you."
Kurumu pouted as they neared the central staircase on their right. An alcove with vending machines was across the hall from the stair. She glanced behind her at the couple.
"I hope that you have enough to buy Mizore something."
"I have money set aside for that."
Nijiro chuckled as he turned right, starting up the flight of steps.
"I'm the one in trouble. I have no idea what to get you now that the swimsuit was taken care of."
"Sorry about that."
"Don't apologize, Mr. Umizake. I'll think of something."
Kurumu smiled thinly as they reached the second floor. Nijiro drifted over to the first door on the left, pushing the key into the lock for room 209. He turned the deadbolt back and removed the key. As he pocketed the key, he opened the door and gestured for them to enter.
Kurumu slipped into the room first, noting it was the same layout as every other one she had been in. A black low table was placed in the center of the room with a couch behind this table and an armchair on either side. All three had stiff brown cushions.
The room's walls and ceiling were lined with white soundproofing, covering up the windows that could be seen from outside. A screen was mounted to the wall which was controlled by a remote on the table. The phone anchored to the wall by the door would ring when their time was almost up.
Kurumu pranced over to the nearest armchair, setting her bag of goods on the cushion before sitting down. As she slipped off her purse, Umizake steered Mizore over to the couch. Nijiro closed the door behind him, turning the deadbolt back in place.
"We could always swing by Change of Seasons if you want to get me another swimsuit."
Nijiro chuckled, wandering over to the other armchair.
"I think you have enough of those."
"Maybe they have something more colorful and cute."
He smirked, bending over to pick up the remote which rested beside the microphone.
"Unless they have something in stock, you're not getting another swimsuit."
"Do you two mind making a detour before heading home?"
Umizake shrugged, sitting on the floor in front of the couch. He held Mizore's hand as the snow girl rested on her back. Mizore's other hand absently caressed the swell of her belly.
"Up to her. Makes no difference to me."
"How are you feeling?"
Mizore let out an exhausted breath.
"Tired. This little girl is moving so much today."
Kurumu grinned, feeling envious. She tore her gaze off the couple, noticing that Nijiro was scrolling through the list of songs. A thought popped in her head.
"Do they have any songs by Yuzu?"
"Yuzu? Are you a fan?"
Kurumu laughed, shaking her head.
"Not really. Watakoma mentioned there was a band by that name because I'm always drinking yuzu juice. She said they had a popular song that I might like."
"Bridge of Glory. They do have other songs but that was their most recent hit. I'll see if it's here."
Kurumu grinned broadly.
"You'll have to sing it for me."
"I'll try not to butcher it."
Kurumu sucked in a deep breath, glancing back at the couple. Umizake was still holding Mizore's hand while running his fingers through her hair. The snow girl had her eyes closed.
"Don't get too comfortable over there."
"Don't worry. She won't let that happen."
Kurumu giggled, gesturing at Umizake.
"I was actually talking to him. I expect him to participate."
Umizake glanced at the screen.
"I suppose that I could."
"Too bad that you couldn't buy a swimsuit for Mizore."
"I'm too pregnant for a swimsuit."
Kurumu giggled, scooting out of the armchair onto her knees. She crawled over to Mizore's side.
"You'd be surprised at how stretchy those racing suits are. I was worried that if it was big enough for my tits, it would be too big everywhere else."
"Found it!"
Kurumu turned her attention back to Nijiro as he traded the remote with the microphone.
"Bridge of Glory?"
Nijiro smirked, nodding as the music started to play over the speakers built into the soundproofing. The notes of a piano was quickly joined by other instruments. After the pause, Nijiro started to sing.
"Dare ni mo. Misenai. Namida. Ga atta. Hitoshirezu. Nagashita. Namida. Ga atta."
A guitar joined in with the melody remaining the same.
"Keshite. Taira na. Michi de ha. Nakatta. Keredo. Tashika ni. Ayunde kita. Michi da."
The pitch shifted up.
"Ano toki. Omoi. Egaita. Yume no. Tochuu ni imamo. Nandomo. Nandomo. Akirame. Kaketa. Yume no tochuu."
Nijiro drew that last note out longer as the music shifted.
"Ikutsumono. Hibiwo. Koete. Tadoritsuita. Ima ga aru. Dakaramou. Mayowazu ni. Susumeba ii."
The music reached the climax.
"Eikou no! Kakehashi heto!"
The song went back to the start with drums now joining in with the other instruments.
"Kuyashikute. Nemuranakatta. Yoru ga. Atta. Kowakute. Furueteita. Yoru ga. Atta."
The tone shifted back up.
"Mou dame da to. Subete ga. Iya ni natte. Nigedasou to. Shita. Tokimo. Omoidaseba. Koushite. Takusan no. Sasae no. Naka de. Aruite kita."
The music approached a climax. These lyrics were about persevering in the pursuit of a dream.
"Kanashimi ya. Kurushimi no. Saki ni. Sorezore no. Hikari ga aru. Saa ikou. Furikaerazu. Hashiridaseba ii."
Nijiro took in a short breath before belting out the last notes.
"Kibou ni! Michita sorahe!"
There was a musical intercession which Nijiro swayed slightly to. Eventually the dramatic music came to an end, diminishing in volume to where the song began.
"Dare ni mo. Misenai. Namida. Ga atta. Hitoshirezu. Nagashita. Namida. Ga atta."
There was a pause that was followed by a rolling cymbal into the next lyrics.
"Ikutsumono. Hibiwo. Koete. Tadoritsuita. Ima ga aru. Dakaramou. Mayowazu ni. Susumeba ii. Eikou no! Kakehashi heto! Owaranai! Sono tabi heto!"
Nijiro stole a quick breath before rolling into the finale.
"Kimi no. Kokoro heto. Tsudzuku. Kakehashi heto!"
Nijiro let out a sigh as the piano started playing. He lowered the microphone as the last notes sounded. Kurumu started clapping, causing her boyfriend to turn about with a slight blush to his cheeks.
"Well, I tried."
"It was good. Really."
Nijiro chuckled softly, setting the microphone down.
"Have I made you a fan?"
Kurumu grinned, gesturing at the screen.
"Maybe if you find a few more songs by them, I will be."
Nijiro smirked, holding the remote out to her.
"Maybe when it's my turn again."
Kurumu waved a hand dismissively.
"Give that to Umizake. I'm not ready to sing."
Umizake regarded the remote when it was presented to him. He sighed, withdrawing his fingers from Mizore's hair to take it. Letting go of Mizore's hand, he stood up.
"I recognized that band. Their earlier song, Flightless Bird, is better."
Kurumu giggled as the tall guy started scrolling through the list of available songs.
"You don't have to sing something by Yuzu."
"It's not like they have many bands in the menu that I do listen to."
Kurumu smirked, recalling that Umizake's taste in music was the same as Mizore's. Loud angry music.
"Hey. Give me your hand."
Kurumu frowned at Mizore's request.
"What for?"
"She's moving so much. Aoi could feel it the last time she was like this."
Kurumu grinned, offering her hand. She shivered slightly when Mizore snatched it up between her chilly palms. The snow girl placed Kurumu's palm against her swollen abdomen. Kurumu could feel how cold Mizore's skin was through the thin garment as the snow girl panted softly.
"Press firm."
Mizore pushed on the back of Kurumu's hand. Kurumu trembled when she felt a slight flutter beneath her fingertips.
"Did you feel her?"
Kurumu's heart swelled up with emotions as she felt another movement.
"Was that a kick?"
"I have no idea if that's a foot or a fist. But she needs to settle down."
Kurumu giggled with a shiver.
"She must really want out."
"It's exhausting. Aoi will have to carry me home at this rate."
Kurumu giggled, glancing back at Umizake. He was still scrolling through songs as she felt another push against her palm. She turned her eyes upon Nijiro. He was smiling at her.
"I wish I could get pregnant."
Nijiro snickered, gesturing at Mizore.
"I think every person that can't wishes that at some point."
"You want to be pregnant?"
"I think it would be a fascinating experience."
"I'll trade you."
Nijiro chuckled, shaking his head.
"No thanks. Being pregnant for a day would be interesting but not for weeks on end."
"Here it is."
Umizake snatched up the microphone as he pressed a button on the remote. Setting the remote down, a guitar started strumming vigorously over the speakers.
And when he started to sing the lyrics for tobenaitori, Kurumu longed for something beyond her reach.
"The brownies are done!"
Kurumu giggled at Rubi's announcement. She was seated by the low table in Yukari's room, wearing her cream chemise. She held five cards while her opponent still had four. Chouda was also dressed down for the evening, sporting a white tank top with lacy frills stitched to the hem. Her silken sleep pant had a soft pink hue.
"You don't need to shout that out."
Rubi closed up the oven, setting the cake pan on a cutting board beside the stove. The older witch had on her black nightie with the white lace hem.
"Sorry. I'm just happy that I'm not spending the night alone."
Kurumu smiled as soft music played over the speakers of her laptop which she had placed on Yukari's desk. It was Kuchibue, one of the last songs on her second Mr. Children compilation album. It felt like forever since she had listened to this album.
Chouda snatched a card from her hand, letting out a happy cry.
"Got a match."
Kurumu smiled thinly as the sylph discarded the pair. She glanced over her four remaining cards which included the old maid.
"Maybe we shouldn't play such a depressing game."
Chouda frowned, cocking her head.
"Why do you think it's depressing?"
Kurumu reached over to pluck a card from Chouda's hand, knowing she would get a match.
"Because nobody wants to end up an old maid."
Kurumu discarded the pair of threes, shuffling the remaining cards in her hand.
"It's just a card game."
Kurumu glanced over at Rubi whom was cutting up the brownie cake.
"You only say that because you finished first."
Chouda snatched out a card from Kurumu's hand that was not the old maid. Kurumu sighed when the sylph promptly discarded the pair of nines, leaving Chouda with only one card.
"Guess I lost again."
Kurumu leaned over to pluck the last card out of Chouda's hand, knowing it was the pair to this jack. She dropped the pair on the stack, setting the lone joker to the side.
"Do you want to play again?"
Kurumu grimaced as the sylph started shuffling the cards again.
"Not really. This game isn't very fun when it gets down to two players."
Chouda giggled as she continued to shuffle the cards.
"True, but it tends to go fast at that point."
Kurumu sighed, leaning back on her palms. She watched Rubi dump the cake pan into the sink. The witch picked up the plate of brownies and walked over to join them.
"How is work going?"
Rubi grinned, kneeling at the table. She set the plate of brownies in the center.
"Good. I'm glad that the speakers' office was open today."
"I can't believe they made you work on a Saturday."
"They didn't make me. I wanted to finish the second years today."
Kurumu smiled, glancing at Chouda. The sylph had set aside the stack of cards and was picking up one of the brownie squares.
"Did you finish them?"
"Not really. I still have about thirty students whose parents I haven't been able to speak with. But most parents have agreed with the electives and living arrangements. I haven't even had ten refusals."
"That's hot!"
Kurumu giggled as Chouda fanned her open mouth with her free hand.
"She just took them out of the oven."
Rubi laughed softly, shifting her weight on her hip with her legs off to the side.
"I need to start doing the first years next week. It's too bad the speakers' office isn't open tomorrow."
"You need a day off, Rubi."
Rubi smiled, glancing down at the floor.
"Lord Sendou wants to release the new homeroom assignments before graduation."
"Can you even finish before Friday?"
"Maybe. I have some first years done because they are related to a second year or a faculty member."
Kurumu chuckled, thinking about what Yukari had told her earlier this week.
"Rubi. If it took you five days to get through the second years, you can't do the first years in three."
"Three? I can make calls on Thursday."
Kurumu favored Rubi's protest with a patronizing look.
"Whomever is making the homeroom assignments will have to do that no later than Thursday. I'm fairly sure they will want those posted on the boards first thing Friday morning."
Rubi nodded thoughtfully.
"Mrs. Hagimoto did say that I only had to finish the second years. That would give enough information to group the students into lunch periods."
"Don't push yourself, Rubi. It sounds like you have plenty of time to take care of this."
"I'm surprised that they are doing the new homeroom assignments earlier this year."
Rubi smiled at Chouda.
"They feel it would be better to give the returning students the whole week to familiarize themselves with their new teachers instead of the two or three days that has been done in prior years."
Kurumu recalled her first day of school. She had purposefully arrived early to avoid the crowd in front of the boards with the homeroom assignments.
"I honestly didn't realize that only the first year homeroom assignments were posted at the start of the year. Do they post the older homeroom assignments earlier because they don't have enough boards?"
"I think it's to cut down the confusion on that first day of school. I've heard rumors that the first day tends to be the most problematic."
Kurumu vaguely recalled Ginei saying something about there always being more casualties among first year students. She sighed as the final song started to play on her laptop. She would have to change CDs.
"It's too bad we don't have any DVDs."
"That's a movie, right?"
Kurumu shared a glance with Chouda and they both giggled.
"Yes, Rubi. My laptop could play a movie if we had one."
"That's amazing."
"Yea. Nijiro reminded me on the walk back home that my laptop's CD player is also a DVD player."
"Why would that come up?"
Kurumu grinned at Chouda.
"He was trying to think of white day gifts and asked if there was any movie that I would like. I had no idea what I would even ask for so I just discouraged him from doing that."
Chouda took another bite from her brownie. The girl chewed slowly, eventually swallowing.
"Did Kurumu get permission to live in my suite next year?"
Rubi grinned broadly, picking up a brownie.
"Yes. And I've also confirmed that Yukari and I will remain in this suite next year."
Kurumu shivered, thinking about graduation.
"Are you leaving with your parents right away, Sumire?"
"Monday night. I want to go to Ms. Nekonome's farewell party on Sunday."
So many imminent farewells.
"Do you know where Moka and Mizore will be living next year?"
Rubi smiled as she chewed, holding half of a brownie.
"I haven't contacted Ms. Shirayuki's parents yet to see if she can live with her fiancé. If I'm lucky, I'll have an answer for you on Monday night. Tuesday night for sure."
Rubi paused to stuff her mouth. Kurumu giggled, deciding to grab a brownie for herself. She took a bite of the chocolate warmth as Rubi swallowed down the rest of her brownie.
"As for Moka, Ms. Shuzen approved of her forms yesterday. She will be living in the double beneath us."
Kurumu's eyes lit up as she chewed on the rich morsel. She swallowed with a gasp.
"That's why Moka wanted to talk to Ms. Shiruba and Ms. Horie this morning."
"Yukari mentioned this morning that they would chat with those girls during today's meeting."
Kurumu smirked, knowing that those two were spending the night in Hajihachi's room with the other girls from the newspaper club.
"They could have told me about that."
"I hope everything works out. Yukari told me that Moka's sister was supposed to be here next weekend with news of our Disney trip."
Kurumu snickered at Rubi.
"That's not the only reason Akua is coming here."
Rubi laughed, picking up another brownie.
"I know. They hoped that Akua could help them move."
"Well that seems to be possible. Herikuda mentioned in the meeting that the three of them were taking off that Saturday night."
"That is good news then."
Kurumu nodded and a silence settled over them. The song playing from her laptop soon ended. Kurumu mulled over if she should get up right away. She had brought all of her CDs.
"What's wrong?"
Kurumu frowned at Rubi.
"Nothing's wrong."
"You seem detached and sad."
"Just a little depressed that our seniors will be leaving us."
"You had a good time on your date, right?"
Kurumu grinned at Chouda.
"It was nice. Mizore asked Umizake to buy a nice swimsuit for me."
Rubi perked up, chewing down another brownie.
"That reminds me. I never showed you the swimsuit that Yukari helped me pick out last weekend."
Kurumu giggled, having forgotten all about that.
"Maybe after we finish the brownies we can model our new swimsuits. Do you want to join in, Sumire?"
Chouda vehemently shook her head.
"No. Even if I had brought one of my own, I wouldn't feel comfortable doing that."
Kurumu smiled softly, thinking about graduation and spring break. One made her sad and the other made her anxious. It was like she had nothing to be genuinely happy about in her near future.
"There is that shallow smile again."
Kurumu pouted at Rubi.
"I just admitted that I was feeling down because of the graduation. It will be a long time before we see Sumire again. And some of these other girls we may never see again."
"Is that all it is?"
Kurumu hesitated to spill her emotions. She would never claim that Rubi or Chouda were the closest of friends. But right now, her close friends felt far away. Moka was doing her own thing. Mizore was going to have a baby soon. Yukari was twelve and very dismissive when it came to serious stuff. It was not like Yukari had made her feel any better about that letter from Mrs. Sakamori.
"I think Nijiro is going to break up with me."
"But I thought you had a good time on your date."
Kurumu forced a smile as her heart ached.
"His parents don't want me. This whole spring break trip is only possible because they must have forgot that I can ask the Shuzen Family to cover my expenses. They didn't expect me to reserve a hotel."
Both girls regarded her with sympathy. Kurumu fought back the urge to cry. This overwhelming emotion was not sorrow but frustration. The inability to control this situation.
"Yukari would let you stay with her."
"I can't call it off. If I give up, it's done. Over. I don't want to be alone."
"Do you really think Mr. Amesuki will break up with you?"
"Maybe not right away, Sumire. But I feel like I'm about one misstep away from him deciding that I'm not worth the trouble. It would be a miracle if we make it to his graduation, let alone mine."
Chouda looked perplexed as Rubi sighed heavily. The witch picked up another brownie.
"I get not wanting to be alone. I don't know what I'm going to do when Yukari gets tired of looking after me. It's not like I actually have a future with Tsukune."
Kurumu swallowed down her thick emotions.
"It's not like Tsukune would abandon you."
"But he should. That's how you feel about Mr. Amesuki, right? That he would be better off without you. That's how I feel about Tsukune. And Yukari. That's how I've always felt."
Kurumu clenched her jaw, absorbing that confession. In many ways, Rubi was like her. Orphaned with no real family to speak of. Adopted by a friend's family.
"I still think you should meet with Lord Inazuma. Find out if that's worth your time."
Rubi laughed mirthlessly.
"I guess. I don't know what I'm going to do with myself after everyone graduates. I have no desire to become a teacher."
"You like making costumes."
This time the laugh felt more genuine.
"That is fun. But can people really live just for a hobby?"
Kurumu had no answers. She picked up a brownie and took in a deep breath.
"We just have to take life one day at a time. Keep our eyes open. I'm sure that one of these days we will find a passion that doesn't make us feel as alone."
Chouda giggled, snatching up a brownie.
"My parents would scold me if they knew I felt the same way. I love taking pictures but I don't really see a future in it. Running off to England is just my way of stalling for more time to make up my mind about what I really want to do with my life."
Kurumu grinned, feeling camaraderie in the uncertainty. She held up her brownie higher.
"A toast to finding our bright futures someday."
Rubi smiled, picking up a brownie and holding it up as Chouda did the same.
"I'll settle for ignorance. I've been told it is bliss."
Kurumu sighed, wishing stupidity did translate to happiness. The dumbest girl in their school had just been committed for attempting suicide. She lowered her brownie which prompted the other girls to do the same. They all took a bite but the mood soured the taste.
"Tell me that your swimsuit can be seen in public."
Rubi giggled, taking the time to swallow.
"Yes. It's a dark blue one piece with a light blue bubble pattern."
"Oh. Sounds cute and very conservative."
"Not exactly. It's a halter with an open back and it bares all of my legs. Even more than my panties do."
Kurumu smirked at the blushing witch, setting her brownie half aside as she got to her feet.
"I think it's time to put on those swimsuits."
If only changing her mood was as easy as her clothes.