Kurumu strolled along the main path to the school gate from the dining hall. Her sleeveless sweater vest was smoothed over her long sleeved, white blouse with the pleats of her tartan skirt brushing her knees. Her schoolbag strap was nestled in the valley of her bosom. She had on her platform sneakers which was no big deal as she would swap to her school slippers anyways.
Koyomi walked beside her as they neared the first of four boards flanking the path. She had also opted to wear the beige vest. The forest was to the right of the path while the school's perimeter wall was to the left behind these boards which still had the lists of first years organized by their new homerooms.
Yukari grumbled, shuffling ahead of them with the first year witches. She was the only girl of that group wearing the school vest. Never having seen Yukari wearing the school vest, Kurumu had not realized the witch owned one. The other five girls were chattering about their anxiety for their first day of school.
Trailing behind Kurumu was a group of girls which included Nerume and Satsuki. The tiny kirin with the offside ponytail was taking lethargic strides which caused her to bump against Satsuki one step and Chisa the next. Satsuki was wearing a standard school outfit with tan slacks, admitting not being in the mood to wear her PSC attire on the first day of school.
Kusamoto towered beside Satsuki, looking all formal and majestic with her school jacket. Hidzume had tied the bow at her collar as Kusamoto had never worn one before. Being so tall, her skirt failed to reach her knees which was an issue that Chisa also faced. Chisa was actually a little taller than Kusamoto whom was a little taller than Binshou.
A few paces behind these four were Goto and her sister's trio. The four were talking about fashion tips which had already been discussed last night. Those girls had shared a table with Nerume's group while Kurumu and Koyomi had been at another table with Yukari and her coven of city witches. There had not been that many students still eating at Kurai dining hall when they had finally left.
"You're looking a little pale, Ms. Sendou."
Yukari groaned as they closed in on the open school gate. This smooth trail actually continued on along the school perimeter wall. Eventually the wall would end and this trail would cut diagonally through the woods towards the old dorm that the student council used.
"I may need to see the school nurse."
"Probably just cramps. Have you had your period yet?"
Yukari gasped at Imai's bluntness.
"Of course I have! I'm twelve, not eight!"
"Don't mind Rin. She had her first one late."
"Which you totally made sound worse than it really was."
Yukari groaned, rubbing her stomach as the witches around her giggled.
"I just had my period twelve days ago so it can't be that. It's probably food poisoning."
Kurumu snickered, shaking her head as the witches strolled through the open gate.
"The dining hall food isn't that bad."
"Some of us have delicate stomachs."
Takahashi chuckled as they walked up the slight incline to the main school entrance.
"I agree, Ms. Sendou. Sayuri and I saw a restaurant in town serving raw food."
"That was such a shock."
Kurumu smiled at Yamashita's remark as she regarded the school. Despite the massive renovations to the interior, the central part of the school still looked like an old mansion. The second floor was smaller than the ground floor, having the railing of a balcony at the point where the black roof sloped down over the lower level. Dormers with windows jutted out from the black roof over the second level.
There was an even smaller third level where Yukari's grandfather now resided. The windows to a large meeting room which the student council had used on occasion were facing the main school entrance. A bell tower jutted up on the right from the third floor.
'Hopefully the guys will be polite with their thoughts.'
"You'll be fine. I'm more worried about Kusamoto."
'Ms. Imai genuinely cares for Ms. Kusamoto.'
Kurumu grinned as the enthusiastic witch skipped ahead of the others to hold open the door.
'She is a good girl. Yukari should be nicer to her.'
'Yukari is scared of disappointing Ms. Imai.'
Kurumu snorted as the other girls entered ahead of them.
"You need to stop reading people's minds without their permission."
Koyomi smiled as they crossed over the threshold
'I will see you at lunch.'
The main entry of Yokai Academy was a genkan space with nine aisles between black shelving for their shoes. The aisles had been reassigned with first years getting the three aisles on the left which flanked the school store while the third years had the three aisles to the right flanking the teachers' lounge. The second years had the middle three aisles with each aisle being assigned to a different lunch group.
There was a door on each wall before the shelving began, giving access to the adjacent spaces. The store usually was closed until the middle of first period. Kurumu turned down the first aisle reserved for the second years, noting that Yukari was already halfway down the aisle.
Kurumu hurried to the end of the aisle which had been given to classes one and three. Her shoe cubby was the one above Yukari's on the left side. They were the third set from the end with the first two sets going to Kana and her three friends. This had all been decided on the last Thursday of last school year.
Yukari was already in the process of changing her shoes when Kurumu arrived. Kurumu retrieved her white slippers from her cubby, dropping them by her feet. She leaned over, wiggling her feet out of her platform sneakers as Yukari stuffed her loafers into the lower cubby.
"I'll see you in class."
Kurumu sounded an acknowledgment as the witch departed. Finishing her task in seconds, she stepped up from the genkan into the main foyer. Yukari was already walking by the base of the central staircase which was different from the original one. The new staircase had black railing leading up to a landing. From this landing two curved stairs connected to the corners of the upper balcony.
This upper balcony had the same black railing ringing the perimeter of a path to the sides and above the genkan. The admin offices and newspaper printing room were all up there. A new black metal chandelier hung in the center of the open space with crystal bulbs in the shape of flames.
Kurumu veered to the right, heading for the other door to the teachers' lounge. There was also a second door to the school store which was propped open, making it clear that the store was ready for business. Not far from the door to the teachers' lounge was an opening for a set of bathrooms.
Crossing the room in seconds, Kurumu drew open the door. Stepping inside the lounge, Kurumu made a cursory glance of the room which had been given new ceiling, wall and floor finishes with the remodel. The three aisles of cubicles had also been replaced, providing new desks and chairs to the teachers.
"Cutting it a little close to the bell, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu smirked at the dark haired woman seated at the cubicle nearest to the door. Senda Shiki had her brown eyes behind a pair of rectangular glasses propped up on her freckled nose. The physics teacher was sporting a short sleeved, cerulean blouse and black slacks. The instructor stood up from her black cushioned chair with the black rollers beneath the silver frame.
"The first bell hasn't sounded yet."
The woman chuckled, picking up a sheet of paper and her keys.
"Must have not spent the morning with Ms. Sendou."
"Actually we both spent the night in Baratoge getting to know a few first years. Yukari has herself a fan club now. It's really cute."
"We should head upstairs."
When Mrs. Senda stood up, Kurumu retreated to the door which she had not closed. She exited the lounge, wandering over to the central stair. She noted that the other girls were still swapping into their slippers. She glanced back at Mrs. Senda when she heard the door close.
"How was your spring break?"
"Too short. It felt like we did nothing."
Kurumu chuckled, starting up the stairs alongside the teacher.
"Do you have any news about Mrs. Takizawa?"
"I did see her the day before I came back. It sounds like they are really trying to have that baby."
Kurumu giggled, arriving upon the landing. Drifting left, she started up the curved flight.
"That's good news."
"Shouji needs to give them both a rest. Twice a night for two weeks will make any woman start to feel like sex is a chore."
Kurumu had to laugh at that as she ascended the last step. She headed left in this upper hallway which connected the two wings of the school. She walked by the balcony on her left which had an opening for a stair leading up to the third floor behind the nearby broadcasting room.
"Have you ever had sex that much?"
"A long time ago. I think sex is one of those things that is better with scarcity."
Kurumu smirked, drifting over to the first door on the left in this upper hall.
"But you like it."
Mrs. Senda snorted, stepping in front of Kurumu to push her key into the lock.
"Of course I like it. So does Shizuka."
The woman twisted the knob and pushed open the door. She flipped on the lights and gestured inside.
"She's just lucky that Shouji is human. A nekomusume would have rubbed her insides raw by now."
Kurumu snickered, understanding that nekomusume boys had barbs for extra stimulation. She strolled into the broadcasting room, taking in the familiar scene. It was mostly a barren space with one control board pushed up against the wall. Four glossy black stools flanked that control board which was littered with dials, buttons and switches. Two microphones were holstered to the board. A camcorder was also plugged into the board, standing beside it on a tripod.
"Well I've never had that much sex for that happen."
Mrs. Senda sighed, closing the door behind. She locked it up as Kurumu pulled the strap over her head.
"I've been asked to talk to you about that."
Kurumu frowned, setting her schoolbag on the floor. As she clambered up onto the stool, the school bell sounded, warning students that they only had a few more minutes before classes begun.
"About what?"
Mrs. Senda sauntered over, taking a seat on the nearby stool.
"About your relationship with Mr. Amesuki."
"We just need to fill out some paperwork."
Mrs. Senda smiled politely.
"The office was contacted Friday afternoon by Mrs. Amesuki. She was quite clear that her son was to not have any relations with you."
Kurumu laughed softly. While she had not expected this, it was not that big of a surprise.
"I'm sure that Nijiro's father-"
"We can't play sides, Ms. Kurono. Both of his parents on record must approve."
"But she doesn't even pay his tuition!"
"If the two of you are seen engaging in relationship behavior, you will be reported and disciplined."
"This isn't fair!"
"It's school policy."
Kurumu seethed with anger.
"What are the consequences for breaking the rules?"
"Detention at first. If transgressions continue, that will be upgraded to a suspension from school. It can even result in expulsion if the student shows no intentions of changing their ways."
"I'm going to get expelled over having a boyfriend?"
"Students refusing to follow the rules will get expelled eventually, regardless of which rules those are."
Kurumu shook her head in frustrated disbelief.
"What even constitutes relationship behavior? Talking too much to him?"
Mrs. Senda laughed under her breath, glancing down at the floor.
"You know where the line would be drawn. You should refrain from hugging, kissing and holding hands. No excessive physical contact."
Kurumu grimaced, wondering if Nijiro was getting a similar lecture this morning.
"This is stupid. In case you forgot, my mother is dead. Forcing me to break up with my boyfriend because I pissed his mother off isn't very nice."
"It's school policy, Ms. Kurono. You might not realize this but attendance at Yokai Academy is down this year. Normally every dorm room is occupied and we have to turn away potential first year students."
"That's not my problem."
"Yokai Academy needs to improve its public image and following the Fairy Tale guidelines is the best way of doing that. This was Headmaster Sendou's decision."
Kurumu scowled, feeling like she was being sacrificed for some greater good.
"I am not breaking up with Nijiro."
Mrs. Senda took in a deep breath. She picked up the sheet she had set aside, presenting it to Kurumu.
"I've been asked to give you the option to switch to Ms. Akashiya's homeroom."
"You must really value his mother's feelings over mine."
"It isn't mandatory, Ms. Kurono. It's merely an option since we know that the two of you have the same lunch period. Nobody wants you to be expelled."
Kurumu huffed, taking the sheet. She glanced over the content, noting it was mostly the topics that the headmaster had brought up at the ceremony.
"I would only see him during the lunch hour. The rest of my school day is with Yukari and Mizore, two of my best friends. And I would have gym with Kokoa whom is practically my guardian."
"I'm aware that you have friends in the current arrangement."
"What poor girl is being forced to switch spots with me?"
"No switching is required since you have the choir elective. Each homeroom has many vacant desks."
Kurumu grumbled, trying to think of other reasons why this was stupid.
"I don't want to be a third wheel."
"Third wheel?"
Kurumu looked directly into the teacher's eyes.
"Moka and Tsukune have that lunch hour. I'd just be in the way."
Mrs. Senda nodded thoughtfully.
"You must have other friends in that group. We even have some new first years from Tottori prefecture assigned to the fourth period lunch."
Kurumu shuddered at that revelation, thinking about her history in Kengamine.
"You may not know this but I wasn't very popular in junior high."
Mrs. Senda smiled softly.
"These wouldn't be kids you went to junior high with. Sankei High and the nearby town were completely destroyed in a fire. These are other kids from that prefecture whom took Headmaster Sendou's offer."
Kurumu scowled at the news, hearing the tardy bell ring.
"Why would he let them come here?"
"I just said our enrollment is down. Fairy Tale promised to cover all out of prefecture tuition costs for any schools willing to take these students in. We got four which is four more than what we expected."
"Couldn't they have picked schools closer to Tottori?"
"My guess is they just wanted to be away from home."
"Whatever. I'm not switching homerooms."
Mrs. Senda chuckled softly, grabbing a microphone from its holster. She handed it to Kurumu.
"You'll need this."
Kurumu groaned, taking the device. She pushed the switch to turn it on, glancing over the sheet again. There was a paragraph here about the lunch rules which was important.
"Chin up, Ms. Kurono. You'll get through this."
Kurumu made a flatulent sound with her tongue, lifting the microphone up. She watched Mrs. Senda mess with the dials for a moment. The teacher glanced at her watch before nodding.
"Time to start."
The panel lit up with a flick of a button. The green bar expanded with her breath, confirming that her microphone was picking up sound.
"Good morning, students of Yokai Academy. I hope everyone is ready for their first official day."
Kurumu took in a breath, trying to smile despite her sour attitude.
"In case some of you missed the welcoming ceremony, I have a few announcements. The first ones are about the school policies against revealing true forms and using powers associated with your true forms. Please make an effort to be human because you will get in trouble if you don't. You are here to practice coexistence so if you can't do it, don't be surprised if you get expelled."
"Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu smirked at the soft note of reproach from Mrs. Senda.
"I'm getting looks for my bluntness so I'll apologize. I'm upset about the policy against relationships since I have one and I'm supposed to behave until I get parental permission to be around my boyfriend. I want everyone in a relationship to take this seriously. Get that form the office has for this matter and get it to your parents immediately. You do not want to get in trouble over such a stupid thing."
There was a squeal as Mrs. Senda turned on her own microphone.
"To clarify what Ms. Kurono is saying, Yokai Academy wants every student to have a bright and happy future. While Yokai Academy hasn't always been so strict on this policy, we have lost students over it. Parents stop funding students in relationships they don't approve of. This Fairy Tale policy is actually quite common in human high schools so don't think of it as something unreasonable."
Kurumu sighed, thinking that was not the issue with her and Nijiro.
"Thank you for that clarification, Mrs. Senda. Like I said, I'm frustrated. It's not that I don't understand."
She let out another sigh, shifting the sheet in her hand.
"The yearbook for last year and the new school jackets will be available in May. The current school jacket design will be discontinued at the end of this term. Getting a new school jacket is not mandatory as the current one will still be regarded in compliance with the school dress code. Anyone not wearing school appropriate attire will be sent home to change."
There was a thump when Mrs. Senda turned off her own microphone. The woman favored Kurumu an apologetic smile before returning her microphone to a holster.
"I have a reminder for new students about the club policy. All students are required to be registered to a club by the end of the month. The school will have a club showcase next week on Monday and Tuesday, starting after sixth period. Students with fourth period gym will be taking their seventh or eighth period class instead of gym. There will be no gym or electives those days. Club leaders are expected to attend the student council meeting this Saturday to discuss their plans for the club recruitment showcase."
Kurumu paused as a thought crossed her mind.
"If anyone wants to give my broadcasting club a chance, we meet every morning before school in the broadcasting room. We don't have an after school meeting and I'm sorry that I forgot to mention that to my new members when I saw them over the weekend. If I don't see either of you today, I hope to see you here tomorrow morning."
Kurumu breathed in deep, hoping that was good enough.
"In the next two weeks, your homerooms will choose a class representative to act as your liaison with the student council. The first class representative meeting will be held the Saturday morning after the first year assessments."
Kurumu smirked at the next brief topic.
"I'm sure that our first years noticed the lack of entrance exams. There will be an assessment test given at the end of next week to determine if students are where they need to be academically. Saturday school will be required for any students needing to catch up."
Kurumu decided not to mention how she had needed those classes for her lack of English proficiency.
"I have one last comment about the school lunch policies. Students are only allowed to have lunch in designated lunch areas. This is limited to the gymnasiums, the cafeteria and the interior courtyard. This includes food you bring home, buy in the school store or purchase from a vending machine. The purpose of this is to keep our school clean and tidy. Please be respectful to all faculty members and staff."
Kurumu tossed the sheet on the panel, having exhausted its contents.
"That is all of the announcements for now. I hope you all have a great first day at school."
Mrs. Senda pushed a button which turned off the broadcast. Kurumu sighed, turning off her microphone and handing it over to the teacher.
"Sorry that you had to cut in there."
Mrs. Senda shrugged, taking the microphone.
"It's understandable. You did have bad news only moments before going live."
Kurumu hopped off the stool, leaning over to grab her schoolbag by its strap.
"I'll see you tomorrow morning."
"I will. Hopefully we will have more than those two girls we were promised."
Kurumu forced a smile, hefting the strap up onto her shoulder. Strolling over to the door, she unlocked it and slipped out into the hallway.
It was not Mrs. Senda's fault that Nijiro's mother was acting so petty. This was the kind of behavior she would expect from someone her age. Not from a woman whom was older than her mother.
Kurumu sauntered by the opening on her right. Balconies flanked the doors to the first year homerooms. These balconies were connected every so often by crossovers with stairs leading down to the first floor. Now the only room up here that she would come to regularly was the choir room.
She passed by the vending machines and started down the stairs at the end of the hall. There was not much good that would come from taking that offer to switch homerooms. Sure she would be in class with Kumiko, Madosuki and Hazumi again but they were not girls she had ever shared lunch with.
Kurumu sighed as she turned about on the landing and started down the other flight. Moka would either want to eat with her new sylph friends or with Tsukune. Switching homerooms would suck. How would Koyomi feel about this? Or Kusamoto for that matter?
Arriving on the ground floor, she strolled around the vending machine. She turned left into the hall with the second year classrooms, pausing at the first door on her left. Drawing it open, she murmured an apology as she stepped inside.
"There you are, Ms. Kurono. Now we can start."
Ms. Atsumoto beckoned to her from the podium in the center of the front of the class. The salamander had on a lime blouse and tan slacks. The black board was behind her and a clock was above the board. The teachers' desk was to the woman's right near the wall lined with windows. Five rows of seven desks stood between Kurumu and the teacher but only the first three rows had students.
"We were about to decide on our class representative."
Kurumu nodded, strolling over to the center aisle. Yukari had claimed the desk in the center of the front row just like she had last year in Ms. Sunao's homeroom. On Yukari's left was Kana while the tiny girl to the witch's right was Anagume Kosame. Anagume had her black locks styled in a bowl cut.
Making her way up the aisle, Kurumu took note of the rest of her classmates. Behind Kana was Touzoku whom was in front of Yochimaru. Itazura was in the center of the third row with Kurumu's vacant desk in front of her. The girl whom would be sitting on Kurumu's left was Shinayaka.
As Kurumu passed by Itazura, she gestured at the two vacant window desks behind Yokumoto. The quiet girl was sitting next to Dakuhime while Kochimaru sat in the desk behind Dakuhime. Nakai had claimed the desk behind the buxom Kochimaru while Tsukihara was between Nakai and Itazura.
"Mizore and Umizake aren't here."
"I am aware of that, Ms. Kurono. We will have to make do without them."
Kurumu hung her schoolbag on the hooks mounted to the side of the desk before settling onto her seat. She glanced at the guys whom were all seated in the two columns closer to the door. Musousaki had the front row desk with Burumoto behind him. Ichiboku was the last in that row. The last front row desk had been claimed by Boyogaro. Behind him was that Yakuza guy while Nukugata was between his manga club colleagues, Yochimaru and Ichiboku.
"Now that you have all had spring break to think things over, does anyone have an issue with Ms. Sendou being the class representative?"
Musousaki held his hand up.
"Yes, Mr. Musousaki."
"I would like to be a class representative."
"You wish to challenge her position?"
"No. I would like to share the position. I know other homerooms have done that."
"That is fine if nobody objects."
Yukari puffed up with her shoulders straightening.
"I would welcome his assistance in my duties."
Ms. Atsumoto nodded, glancing over the group.
"Does anyone have anything else to say on this matter?"
There was a long stretch of silence which the teacher ended with a clap of her hands.
"Very good then. Now take out your homework packets. We will go over them today and that is it. I want them turned in no later than Friday. Starting tomorrow, we are moving on to the next subject."
Kurumu sighed, suspecting this would be a long day.
The bell sounded, causing Mrs. Unsei to halt her sentence. The English teacher turned to look at the clock mounted over the board. She was garbed in a long sleeved, white blouse with a frilly collar which she had coupled with a brown pencil skirt. The woman favored them with an apologetic smile.
"Seems I misjudged the time. I hope you all enjoyed the review of your homework which I expect to be turned in before the end of the week. I'll be in the teachers' lounge for the rest of the day if any of you have questions about the assignment."
Kurumu grumbled, feeling hungry. Five periods in a row which had all been reviewing homework packets that she had already completed. At least she felt good about having done it right as Mrs. Unsei gathered up her portfolio and started for the door. Kurumu would turn in her packets tomorrow, seeing no reason to put it off until Friday. Every teacher was going to start a new lesson tomorrow anyways.
Closing up her homework packet, Kurumu leaned over to open up her schoolbag. She had lunch, choir, gym and then that human coexistence class which had been glossed over last year. Stuffing her packet and mechanical pencil into her schoolbag, she moved things about to find her purse. Kurumu unzipped the bag, retrieving her lunch card.
"Yukari. Are you planning to wait before leaving?"
The witch huffed as Kurumu zipped up her purse.
"I have no reason to rush my gastrointestinal torture."
Kana giggled, getting up from her desk.
"You're so silly."
"No. That comic was silly. Do you want to come by my place tonight to pick it up?"
"Kurumu!"
Kurumu looked at the open doorway where Burumoto was grinning.
"I'll save you a seat."
The minotaur patted his lap, causing her to shake her head with a shooing gesture. Chuckling heartily, he exited the room with Nukugata and Ichiboku following him out.
"I could swing by your place after the club meeting."
Yukari nodded at Kana's suggestion as Touzoku, Yochimaru and Itazura gathered about the blond.
"Do we know where our club meeting will be held?"
"That is a good question. But we'll see Mr. Morioka at lunch."
"Hopefully we find your sister quickly."
Kurumu smiled as Shinayaka steered little Anagume across the front of the class. Kochimaru paused by Kana's group, having an indecisive expression.
"Are we eating at the table Ms. Yamakusa picked out for our club?"
Touzoku chuckled, slipping by Kana to grab Kochimaru by the arm.
"I believe so. Come on, Kana. There might be room for all of us."
As Kana and her friends took off with Kochimaru, Kurumu regarded the remaining classmates. Umizake had actually worn his black PSC attire despite showing up twenty minutes late with his weary fiancée. He was helping Mizore get to her feet while Dakuhime took Yokumoto's hand.
"Will you be joining us at the choir table, Ms. Kurono?"
Kurumu smiled at Dakuhime's query.
"I might. Where is it?"
"I'm sure you will see us. We will save you a spot."
Kurumu smirked as the pair started moving towards the open front door.
"Do we even have enough choir girls in our group for that to be an issue?"
"We shall see, Ms. Kurono. You never know how many first years might join."
Kurumu nodded, knowing that was true as the girls exited the room.
"I'm going to leave her with you."
Kurumu smirked as Umizake steered Mizore over to her desk. Clutching her lunch card, Kurumu got up from her desk to drape an arm across Mizore's shoulders. The snow girl instantly leaned against her side, slipping an arm around Kurumu's waist.
"Are you going to grab one of those complimentary PSC lunches?"
"Assuming they are still making those. If not, I'll join you in the line."
Kurumu smiled, reaching over to toy with Mizore's thick locks. Her hair seemed much shorter now with it held in a small ponytail. So much of her pale neck was exposed.
"Will you come save her from the lunch line if you're successful?"
"Of course. I'll see you soon."
He leaned in, planting a kiss on the top of Mizore's head. The snow girl sighed as he retreated. The slight drop in temperature mirrored her disappointment at his departure.
"You two better pick up forms before someone reports you for being in an unsanctioned relationship."
"What would they do? Repossess my baby?"
Kurumu snickered, gesturing at Yukari.
"Can we go, Yukari? The room won't get any emptier."
Yukari sighed dramatically, putting her mechanical pencil down.
"I suppose we can get on with it."
As Yukari put away her things, the second bell sounded, officially starting the next period. Pulling out her lunch cared, Yukari hopped out of her seat. She strutted over to the door, prompting Kurumu to follow with Mizore glued to her side. They shuffled out into the hallway which was mostly bereft of students. The only ones left were gathered in the lunch line all the way down by the science labs.
"I can't imagine the two of you having any issues getting parental permission."
Yukari snorted as they walked by the base of the stairs leading up to the crossover between first year homerooms three and ten. The higher numbered classrooms of all three grades had windows facing the interior courtyard. The next stair ahead of them went up to the crossover between first year homerooms five and eight. That crossover had another stair coming down towards the cafeteria.
"Shirayuki may be fine but I'm worried about my Moka. We talked yesterday about if her exiled status would still require her father's signature. If it does, that might cause issues as vampires are not supposed to casually date."
Kurumu nodded, passing by the base of the stairs between homerooms six and seven. The next door on her right was for the back of homeroom seven with the following door being for the home economics room. A familiar trio was lingering at the base of the stairs that came down from a crossover between the bathroom and choir door upstairs.
"Do you think an official fight will be required?"
"My Moka hopes so but at the same time doesn't. She doesn't know if they should get married now."
"Ms. Kurono!"
Nyuuwa waved excitedly, standing beside her bestest friend Mukai. Koyomi was with them, having gathered her white hair up in a simple ponytail. Knowing Koyomi lacked hair accessories, the succubus must have borrowed one from a classmate.
"We should talk about this later."
"This isn't our decision to make. This is up to my Moka and Tsukune."
"As a member of your prestigious broadcasting club, I shall join you for lunch."
Kurumu grinned at Nyuuwa's firm declaration. She came to a stop with Mizore leaning heavily into her side. She glanced at Koyomi whom smiled when their eyes met.
"Will Mukai be eating with us?"
"She shall but she hasn't decided if she will join us yet."
"I would like to see if there are other clubs with familiar faces."
"We can have this conversation in line."
Kurumu chuckled at Nyuuwa's decisive tone. The girl turned about and started off, prompting them to follow her to the end of the line which was near the first door to Ms. Yumeito's lab. The lunch line was much shorter than last year even with the new students.
"Ms. Shirayuki is so much bigger than she was at Mrs. Takizawa's wedding."
Kurumu laughed at Nyuuwa's observation as they took their spot at the end of the line which was mostly unfamiliar guys whom probably were first years.
"Yes. She told you she was pregnant."
"But that was only four months ago. She didn't look pregnant so I wasn't sure if it was a joke."
"Mizore did joke a lot but she was being serious that time."
"I just wish Hatsue would come out already. She doesn't need two more weeks."
Nyuuwa's eyes went wide.
"Two weeks!? You were that far along!?"
"She does look ready to have that baby."
"You should have seen her, Suki. I'm serious that she didn't look pregnant at all."
Mizore sighed, nuzzling her head against Kurumu's shoulder.
"I barely felt pregnant back then. Only had a few bouts of morning sickness."
'She needs to hydrate soon.'
Kurumu smirked at the thought from Koyomi.
'How much do you know about Mizore?'
'That her baby is yours but for reasons you will not be recognized as the mother.'
Kurumu sighed as they slowly but steadily made their way to the end of the hall.
"You really shouldn't be so nosy."
'You are upset that they want you to switch homerooms.'
Kurumu groaned, not wanting to talk about her situation with Nijiro.
"Did you borrow that hair tie from a classmate?"
Koyomi nodded as Nyuuwa favored Kurumu an inquisitive look.
'Ms. Kishugin gave me it. You were right. Picking a desk near her and Ms. Hiromori made things easier.'
'I was hoping that would work. Guys like tits so their attention gets divided when you are surrounded by other attractive girls. Did you stop by the office to switch your elective?'
'Not yet.'
"I'm serious about that, Koyomi. I'll lend you my flute."
"What are you talking about?"
Yukari huffed at Nyuuwa's confusion as they started drifting right. They had reached the end of the hall and were now walking diagonally to the serving line. This other corridor also connected the two wings, running by the cafeteria and library.
"Kurumu is clearly having a telepathic conversation with Ms. Hajinai."
"I'm just sharing my frustrations with her. Nothing you haven't already heard."
'You forgot to talk about that video game that music store guy mentioned.'
Kurumu gasped at Koyomi's thought.
"I did forget that! I even had that sheet in the pocket of my skirt."
"Our skirts don't have pockets."
Kurumu made a dismissive wave at Nyuuwa.
"I meant the skirt I had on yesterday. It's in my schoolbag."
"You shouldn't mention bringing soiled clothes to school."
Kurumu smirked at Yukari as they entered the space leading up to the serving line. A wall on their right divided this passage from the seating area. Up ahead was a door on the left, giving access to a break room which was connected to the rest of the kitchen. A cart with trays was between that door and the start of the shelves laden with entrées.
"Mizore!"
Kurumu flinched, glancing over her shoulder as Umizake strode purposefully towards them. Mizore let go of Kurumu as they turned about.
"Did you have any luck?"
Umizake chuckled at Kurumu's query, intercepting Mizore before the girl had taken three steps towards him. He draped his arm around her, pulling her to his side.
"Seems they are making those lunches. We'll be at the table that Mr. Sabaku picked out for us."
"I'll see you there."
Kurumu grinned as Umizake steered his fiancée away. She turned back around, skipping to the end of the line. They were almost to the cart with the trays.
"The line felt like it moved fast."
Yukari scoffed at her optimism.
"It's still too long. Ms. Yumeito and Ms. Uchikawa both have biology classes this period. It must have been distracting to have a bunch of students standing outside their lab."
"I don't think it was that bad."
"Because we had second period biology. Our opinion of the noise level is invalid."
Nyuuwa was first to the cart with the lunch trays but the short guy ahead of her had decided to give one to her and Mukai. Nyuuwa thanked the boy with dirty gray locks whom headed down the shelves ahead of them. Kurumu smirked, suspecting that guy was someone Nyuuwa knew.
'His name is Inagaki Kou. He likes Ms. Mukai but she only thinks of him as a friend.'
Kurumu shot Koyomi a look as the succubus grabbed a tray for Kurumu and herself.
'You really need to hold back on this peeking into minds.'
Koyomi smiled apologetically as she followed Yukari whom was already making selections for her tray.
'I have always done this, Kurumu. Most people never know.'
Kurumu sighed, thinking it might not have been a problem in Koyomi's small community. But people in this world had an issue with their secrets being discovered. It was exposing one of Yoshii's secrets which had resulted in the death of her mother.
Kurumu glanced over the few remaining boxes on the shelves. She was literally the last student grabbing lunch from the cafeteria so the selection was scarce. No more dinner rolls or hearty meals. Just cups of miso soup, udon and some boxes of fried rice. Guessing she would have to get her protein at dinner, she added a box of fried rice and walked to the end of the shelves where the refrigerated carts hummed. Pushing the glass top aside, she fetched a can of green tea.
She sauntered over to the end of the nearest line to the podiums with the registers. Nyuuwa was in front of her while Mukai was in the next line over. Yukari had only a cup of miso soup on her tray which made Kurumu snicker. Koyomi moved to the line closest to the dining area as it only had two students waiting.
"You're going to be starving, Yukari. You should have at least grabbed some rice or noodles."
"This is damage control. I'll have an early dinner."
It was already Nyuuwa's turn at the register. The girl put her tray on the podium which the dark haired lady started to ring up. None of these women at the registers were Mrs. Teisen, the cafeteria manager. That woman was also the head chef, preferring to stay in the kitchen. She had dark green locks styled in a pixie cut and steel blue eyes. Kurumu had barely noticed her last year.
Before Nyuuwa was given back her meal, Yukari and Mukai stepped up to the registers in their respective lines. Kurumu flashed Koyomi a slight smile whom was still waiting on the guy ahead of her. It was only a few seconds later when the lady motioned for Kurumu to step forward.
Kurumu grinned at the worker before putting her tray down on the podium. She held her lunch card out as the lady started totaling up her items. Once the woman was finished, she took the card from Kurumu and swiped it through her machine. After a moment, the worker handed the card back to Kurumu with a slight murmur of thanks. Putting everything on her tray, Kurumu sauntered over to where Yukari waited with the two tiny girls whom only looked tall compared to Yukari.
The cafeteria was fuller than it had been the last week of school. Most of the clubs had managed to keep their tables that they had scouted that week. In these first four tables flanking the wall that divided the seating area from the serving line were the kappa kids from the arcade, diving and fishing clubs. The next two tables were also taken by students from those communities. The one by the wall was claimed by the mermaids of the swimming club while the aisle table had been reserved for Wanibuchi's bowling club buddies. All of these tables had new faces but Kurumu recognized the Shimesu twins with the mermaids.
Kurumu glanced at the eight tables between the doors to the practice gym. The very first table had the rugby boys. Yajima was the one with braided bangs while the two by him were his pals from Ashikantai. The guy with the frosted blue faux hawk was one of the Arukage boys whom was also in that club. His older brother had graduated and they were from Mononoke. The two guys beside Arukage were new.
The aisle table closer to Kurumu had two guys whom were familiar to Kurumu but she would be hard pressed to give their names. A third guy was with them and looked related to one of the second years.
The next aisle table was taken by the badminton club. Kiba's older cousin, Akito, was that club's leader and he was with Tanimoto and Hitomure. She was mildly surprised that Hitomure was here, wondering why he was not with his baseball team. He seemed to be friends with the other two guys at the table. The taller one had wavy, shoulder length hair that had a rich black hue. The other had his black cherry locks styled in a crew cut.
'Those two are Namanamashi Hanzou and Hakishi Botan from my homeroom. They give me lots of yummy thoughts that make my panties wet.'
Kurumu smirked at Koyomi whom strolled over to join them. Shaking her head, she started over to the center aisle which prompted the others to follow.
'You are not getting a boyfriend.'
Little Toboshi with the dirty white hair braided in a rat tail was sitting with Shikusa, drama club president. The two had that table next to Hitomure all to themselves. The next table along that wall shared with the practice gym had been claimed by the gymnastics club. Tarumi and Kochimaru were there but Manami for some reason was not. There had been enough room for Kana and her friends to join Touzoku. They even had Watakuma and Kinuhana with them.
Tonda from the dance club was sitting at this other aisle table with that guy from her village whom was also in the club. The tengu senior had short, ashen gray locks which hid one of her eyes while the guy has smoky black hair styled in a feathered crew cut. The three girls sharing their table were probably Tonda's cousin and her two friends whom were considering coming to Yokai Academy. It was hard to say which of those girls was Tonda's cousin as none of them looked like Tonda.
The last two tables before the break were filled with familiar band students. One table was half full of older students whom had gone to the junior high in Umiman and it would not surprise Kurumu if the other five were also from there since Umisame and Nurasume were with them. The other table had Myaku and that Kasahara boy whom often hung out in her shop.
"So are we sitting with Shirayuki or your boyfriend?"
Kurumu smiled at Yukari's question as they neared the tables on the other side of the gap. The first aisle table had been claimed by the undine boys from Aranami, including the first years Wan and Urafune. As he was the math club president, Boyogaro was also here with that Yakuza guy. Nijiro managed a smile as Kurumu neared them.
The next aisle table had been claimed by the local girls. Mikomi had her back to Nijiro and was sitting on the end next to Tokori whom was dressed like a normal student today. Bunii sat on Tokori's other side while Onodera and Kumatani sat across from them.
The table against the wall next to the local girls had Mizore and Umizake. Mizore was on the end with Umizake next to her while Koike Kousuke sat on his other side. The tawny haired senior was also wearing the PSC jacket, though his left arm was missing so the sleeve was pinned to his shoulder. Ginei sat across the table from Koike, speaking to two impressionable first years sitting beside the werewolf.
"Do you want to rescue your cousin?"
Yukari shrugged indifferently as they stopped in the center aisle.
"Not in particular."
"Doesn't look like we have the room to join either of them. We can take that vacant table nearby."
Kurumu drifted over to the first table against the wall near the door to the practice gym. This table was reserved for the judo club but it looked like they either had no members this lunch period or they were sitting somewhere else. Kurumu sat down on the corner closest to Nijiro's table and Yukari claimed the spot beside her. Koyomi took the other corner across from her while Nyuuwa and her friend sat by the succubus with their backs to Ginei.
Umizake nodded at Kurumu's arrival, catching Ginei's attention. The werewolf glanced over his shoulder and grinned, beckoning to them.
"There is my precious junior. Come join us, Yukari!"
Yukari huffed indignantly, taking the lid off her cup of miso soup.
"I am fine where I am."
Both Imai and Tanaka looked over their shoulders. Imai grinned broadly while Tanaka smiled politely.
"Hey, Yukari! This guy claims to be your club president!"
"He is unfortunately. Don't take anything from him."
Ginei gasped, clutching his chest.
"You should speak more kindly about me."
Imai giggled, gesturing at them.
"How has your day been?"
"Fine. I've already secured my position as class representative."
"Awesome. Kokono discouraged me from adding my name to the list of candidates."
"Did you have a bunch of people wanting to do it?"
"Only two people."
"Whom both have more friends in class. You can try next year after you've made more friends."
Ginei grinned at Tanaka's response.
"These two were telling me how eager they were to join my club to be with their genius senpai."
"And I've already told them to pursue other club options."
"Don't be like that."
Yukari sighed dramatically at his predatory grin.
"Since we are on the topic, are we having a club meeting today?"
Ginei nodded solemnly, looking over the nearby girls.
"Yes. We need to discuss what to do with all of these lovely new additions to our club."
Nyuuwa giggled, shaking her head. She turned her attention back to her meal.
"I'm not joining the newspaper club. I've already committed to the broadcasting club."
"What a shame. How about you, little one?"
Mukai smiled, shaking her head.
"I have no interest in writing articles for a newspaper."
"We do have other positions available. How do you feel about being on your knees?"
"Don't you have a girlfriend to harass?"
Ginei chuckled at Kurumu's admonition.
"We've already broken in the nearby woods."
Kurumu sighed, thinking this guy was incorrigible. She gestured at Koike.
"You can't let your little sister near this guy."
"I've already warned her. Have you met her yet?"
"Ageha introduced me to most of her class at the welcoming ceremony."
"Perhaps she'll join my club."
Koike snorted at Ginei's offhand remark.
"Not a chance. She's looking to join either track or softball."
Ginei sighed heavily, gesturing at Koyomi whom shivered suddenly.
"Well I wouldn't mind the company of this beauty. She needs to fill the void Kurumu made in my lap."
"I was never in your lap."
Imai giggled, nudging her friend.
"I'm starting to see why my cousin doesn't want us in her club."
"She did say it was for our own safety."
"Where exactly are we having this meeting today?"
Ginei let out a thoughtful sound, contemplating Yukari's query.
"That is a good question now that our club advisor has retired. I suppose that we could still use first year class three since Ms. Umiawa is unlikely to have a club using her room."
Kurumu smiled, knowing that the newspaper club would need a new advisor by the end of the month.
"Did Mr. Fujita ever agree to take back his role as your club advisor?"
"While that still is an option, I want to explore other possibilities. We have several new ladies in the faculty and there is always the one living with Yukari that we could use."
Yukari snorted at his answer.
"You are not making Rubi our club advisor."
"It's not like club advisors have to do much. I'm sure that Rubi would jump at the chance to help her precious Tsukune in any way he desired."
Kurumu shook her head at Ginei's tone.
"You are a wicked, manipulative person."
"I will do what I must to keep my club running."
"Kurumu. I would like to talk to you."
Kurumu smiled, drawing her attention over to Nijiro whom regarded her with sincere, periwinkle eyes.
"I was planning to. Do you mind if I eat first?"
"I wouldn't have spoken up if you were but it seems like you are having too much fun."
Yukari snickered, taking a sip from her cup.
"Kurumu has always been eager to chat with every person she bumps into."
"You were talking with Ginei just as much as I was."
"We can quickly step into the gym. I only need a moment."
Ginei chuckled, favoring Kurumu some naughty thoughts.
"You should be kinder to your girlfriend. At least last ten minutes."
"I won't be doing anything like that, Mr. Morioka. Some people might think it funny to report a member of the student council engaging in behavior against the rules."
When he stood up, Kurumu took the hint to do the same.
"We'll be right back."
Yukari sounded her understanding which was echoed by the other girls. Falling in step behind Nijiro, Kurumu followed him to the door to the practice gym. He drew it open and gesture for her to enter. She darted into the vacant space, turning about. He stepped inside, closing the door behind him.
"I'm going to guess that you were talked to about our relationship."
Nijiro nodded with a serious air about him.
"Yes. Ms. Kiyomizu pulled me aside before the start of first period. It sounds like my mother wants you to be expelled if we don't break up."
Kurumu huffed, having spent several hours thinking about this.
"Good luck with that. I'll still be Kokoa's servant so they can't kick me out of town."
"I don't know if they can or not but I doubt they would resort to such measures. Ms. Kiyomizu said that you might have to switch lunch groups."
"Mrs. Senda said that was an option. I turned it down because I prefer being in the same homeroom as Yukari and Mizore."
"I'm not surprised. Ms. Kiyomizu said that I could switch to class six under Mr. Gyousan if I desired."
Kurumu frowned at the revelation.
"But all of the students from Umiman junior high are in this lunch group."
"It was only an option brought up since they think my sister might make more reports of our activity."
"More reports?"
Nijiro sighed at her confusion.
"Yes. My sister claims that we went on a date over the weekend."
Kurumu scowled, guessing she had misjudged Manami's personality.
"We went on a date before the welcoming ceremony."
"I know and I told Ms. Kiyomizu that much."
"How would you switching homerooms make her stop lying?"
"I don't know. Maybe it would make things easier on Manami if she doesn't see us together."
Kurumu wrung her hands, worrying over the idea that everyone else's opinion mattered more than hers.
"Are we going to be allowed to do our weekend group dates?"
"Mr. Shiname thinks we should be fine. As long as we aren't hugging and kissing, it would be no different than a group of friends hanging out."
Kurumu felt some relief that Nijiro had already talked about this with his roommate.
"They could still report us but we would have witnesses."
"That's what he said. But I guess this means I shouldn't ever be coming over to your place."
Kurumu groaned, realizing her relationship had been dialed back to a platonic friendship.
"Now I regret not having sex with you on our last date."
Nijiro chuckled softly, regarding her with longing.
"I agree but we will have to be satisfied with this. Maybe my dad can talk some sense into my mom but we might just have to wait until my graduation to continue as we were."
Kurumu whimpered, thinking a whole year without even holding hands was too much.
"This is all so stupid."
"I know. Out of curiosity, is Ms. Shuzen listed as your guardian? If by some chance I do get permission to be your boyfriend, you would have to have your own form filled out."
Kurumu laughed, having no clue.
"I know her dad is paying for my school but I don't know if he's listed as my guardian. I would have to ask Kokoa about-"
Kurumu gasped in the middle of her sentence.
"I was supposed to talk to Kokoa today!"
"I doubt you will have the time if you want to eat."
Kurumu skipped by him, drawing open the door.
"I'm at least going to try!"
Kurumu tried to not look too bored as Ms. Atsumoto droned on about the importance of coexisting with humans. This was such a garbage course. It felt like it had been written back in the eighties as they were discussing the dangers of being photographed with Polaroids. Did anyone even have Polaroid cameras these days? The only person Kurumu knew whom owned one was her mother.
Sighing, Kurumu looked up at the clock above the chalk board. They still had about ten minutes left to this crummy day. She had not been able to chat with Kokoa during lunch, having to go straight to choir after her rushed meal. Her elective had nine returning choir club members including Kurumu and a few familiar faces. Amatsu Riki, the student council secretary, had also taken choir as an elective despite no longer being in the club and Doronuma of the music club was taking the choir elective again.
Ekizo Anzu, an enigmatic beauty from the greetings club, was in her class. Kurumu had shared home economics with the senior last year. Ginei must have decided it would be funny to take choir as his final elective, intentionally making a nuisance of himself. But the most unsettling member of her choir class had been Kisurusu, Juri's friend, whom had a sour look whenever her eyes met Kurumu's. That golden haired girl had spent most of her time chatting with Chousei.
The other ten members of their class had all been first years, including Koyomi. Two were guys whom had gone to junior high in Aserutani with Heida Mari and Tobihaneru Taiga, two of the first year girls. Tonda's cousin, Hagane Miu, had also been in this class but her friends had taken art for their elective. Kusamoto had also taken the choir elective and she was the tallest of their group.
Kurumu had not caught the names of the other three girls, being distracted by Ginei and also trying to explain Koyomi's situation to Mrs. Tomarigi. The choir teacher had promised to help Koyomi switch to an elective that would be more agreeable to her handicap.
Kurumu finally had her chat with Kokoa during gym which had been odd for other reasons. For some unspecified reason, Ms. Kurohane was in charge of their group instead of Coach Yaisoku. Not that the tennis coach's absence mattered as they were only being assigned lockers and given a pamphlet about proper stretching techniques.
They were supposed to change for gym but Kurumu and several other girls had forgotten to bring their gym clothes and shoes to school. This included Yukari but her mistake must have been deliberate. After picking partners for stretching, they had been allowed to mingle with the other second years.
The verdict from Kokoa was that Kurumu would only be required to perform her duties on Friday nights and Saturday mornings. Kokoa would have one of her girls over to take blood from. Kurumu would make dinner, do Kokoa's laundry and spend the night so Kurumu could make breakfast the following morning. This was something Moka had agreed to and they would not revisit the issue until after summer break.
Ms. Atsumoto closed her portfolio with enough force to catch Kurumu's attention. The salamander smiled, tucking the black rectangle beneath her arm.
"I believe we are close enough to the bell to wrap things up here. I understand that Ms. Sendou and Mr. Musousaki have already constructed a duty roster for the class."
"That is correct, Ms. Atsumoto. We had some free time in our computer class."
Ms. Atsumoto nodded at Yukari's response.
"Please share it with the class. All of you should write this down. We don't need Ms. Sendou to keep writing this roster on the board each day when other teachers will need the board for their lectures."
"Yes, Ms. Atsumoto."
Yukari stood up and walked around to the front of her desk.
"Ms. Kurono, myself and Ms. Anagume will be the first group. The second pair will be Ms. Zukkutani and Ms. Yochimaru. The third pair will be Ms. Touzoku and Ms. Itazura."
"Slow down, Ms. Sendou. Most of your classmates aren't taking notes."
Kurumu flinched, realizing this included her. She flipped her notebook to the last page, quickly scrawling duty roster across the top with her mechanical pencil. She hastily added her group before writing down the next two groups.
"Am I okay to proceed?"
Several students murmured an affirmative and Kurumu nodded. Yukari let out a heavy sigh.
"The fourth pairing is Ms. Yokumoto with Ms. Dakuhime. The last pair of the week is Ms. Kochimaru and Ms. Shinayaka. If you hadn't guessed already, this pattern will alternate every other week. We are class of twenty one students, so the next five pairs are for the second week."
Kurumu smirked, doubting that clarification was needed. She patted her pencil against her notebook, waiting for Yukari to continue.
"The first pair of the second week is Ms. Shirayuki and Mr. Umizake. The next day will be handled by Mr. Nukugata and Mr. Tsukihara. The third pair of that week will be Mr. Musousaki and Mr. Burumoto."
Yukari paused, looking over the group. Kurumu smirked, having written down the names already.
"Mr. Yakuza and Ms. Boyogaro are next with the final pair being Mr. Ichiboku and Mr. Nakai."
"Thank you very much, Ms. Sendou. You may dismiss the class now."
Yukari nodded, putting down the chalk before returning to the side of her desk.
"Stand."
Kurumu set her mechanical pencil aside, getting up on her feet along with the rest of the class.
"Bow."
Kurumu stiffly bowed just as the bell sounded the end of the school day.
"Dismissed."
Kurumu sighed, straightening up as the other students started to put their things away. She sauntered up to the front row, placing her hand on Anagume's shoulder. The tiny girl flinched, glancing up at Kurumu with nervous eyes.
"Sounds like we have cleaning duty."
Anagume nodded, clutching her mechanical pencil in her tiny hand. Her other hand closed her notebook.
"We'll see you in choir."
Kurumu nodded at Dakuhime whom was hefting her schoolbag up by its strap. The girl got it up on her shoulder and turned to address her friend. Yokumoto had just put her things away and was slipping off her seat without a sound.
"Mr. Morioka did say we were up in first year class three?"
Yukari nodded at Kana whom had already shouldered her schoolbag.
"Yes. I don't anticipate it to be a long meeting."
Touzoku chuckled, stepping up beside her friend.
"We'll go grab Cho since she still seems determined to give your club a try."
"Is your gymnastics club meeting today?"
Touzoku shrugged nonchalantly.
"Don't know. We'll swing by Ms. Yamakusa's homeroom before going up to Ms. Hanada's computer lab. If we don't see anybody, I guess we'll go home."
Shinayaka sighed, getting up on her feet.
"Well our volleyball team isn't meeting today so I'll stick here with Kosame until her sister shows up."
"Is the cheerleader squad having a meeting?"
Shinayaka shrugged at Kochimaru's query.
"She ate with her sister so she would know."
Anagume nodded, making no move to put away her things.
"On the field."
Kurumu smiled at the girl's soft voice which was barely audible over their classmates shuffling about. She glanced over at Burumoto whom had just gotten to his feet with a loud groan.
"Ushio! Does the soccer team have practice?"
He turned a feral grin upon her.
"Are you planning to watch?"
"I was just asking."
"Yes. Coach said in gym that he has big news so we'll be out in the field."
"Don't take too long, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu nodded as Dakuhime strolled by with Yokumoto in tow. The pair exited the classroom on the heels of the massive Burumoto. Most of the other guys and Kana's two friends had already taken off.
"Think we are out of here too. Come on, Usagi."
Kochimaru sounded an affirmative, bounding after Touzoku whom was taking off. Kana fell in step with the bouncy gyokuto, exiting the room a second later.
"I'll handle the chalk board."
Kurumu snorted at Yukari's declaration, turning to look at the unused board.
"There is nothing to erase."
"Which only means it won't take long. Stop dallying."
Kurumu sighed, noting that Umizake had helped Mizore to her feet.
"Do you want the dustpan or the broom?"
"Dustpan."
Hearing the soft response, Kurumu let go of the girl's shoulder and strolled down the aisle. In the back of the classroom was a small storage locker next to a trash bin. Inside the locker were the cleaning products reserved for each classroom. Reaching the locker in seconds, Kurumu popped it open and retrieved the broom and dustpan. As she strolled back up the aisle, Umizake escorted Mizore to the back of the room.
"Did you want to help, Momiji?"
Shinayaka giggled, taking her schoolbag off the hooks of her desk.
"No. I'll just watch."
"Do you always look after Kosame?"
"Not really. But it doesn't feel right leaving her alone."
Kurumu smirked, presenting the dustpan to the little girl. Anagume finally put down her mechanical pencil, taking the dustpan.
"Maybe Yukari should put her in your cleaning group."
"Oh no. I think things will work out much better as they are."
Kurumu grinned as Anagume slipped out of her seat.
"Shall we begin?"
The girl nodded, following after Kurumu when she moved to the first aisle. Putting her broom to the floor, Kurumu started sweeping towards the back.
"Go to the end of the aisle. I'll sweep into the pan and you can carry it to the bin."
Anagume made a soft sound, scurrying around her. Kurumu grinned, continuing her sweeping. It only took a few seconds to reach the tiny girl at the end. With a simple cue, the girl hunkered down and put the pan on the floor. Kurumu brushed what little debris she had gathered into the pan.
"That's one down."
As Anagume moved to the trash bin, Kurumu walked back down the aisle to the front. Turning about the front desk, she started down the next aisle. It only took a few seconds to reach the tiny girl at the end. There was not a whole lot to sweep up which was to be expected. It was the first day of school.
"I'm heading out."
Yukari's announcement was made as Kurumu finished the fourth aisle. Anagume hurried over to the trash bin as Kurumu sashayed back to the front. She flashed Yukari a smile as the witch hefted up her schoolbag. Yukari nodded before walking purposefully towards the open front door. Turning about the front desk, Kurumu started sweeping down the fifth aisle.
"You've been down all day."
Kurumu laughed at the comment from Shinayaka.
"Did it look like that?"
"Maybe. It might be because we all know about your relationship with Mr. Amesuki."
Kurumu sighed, guessing the other girls were expecting signs of distress after her outburst during the announcements. Anagume hunkered down at the end of the aisle moments before Kurumu arrived. She started sweeping the few unwanted particles into the pan.
"It's just a nuisance. Every couple is going through this."
Shinayaka chuckled softly as Kurumu finished her task.
"Yea. I'm guessing that only Ms. Shirayuki has permission to be with her fiancé. The school did approve of them living together."
As she returned to the front, Kurumu realized her earlier concerns had been silly. Of course Mizore and Umizake would be fine. She strolled around the front desk into the final aisle as Anagume dumped the contents of her dustpan into the trash bin. Sighing, Kurumu started sweeping towards the back.
"Well it bothers me to admit this, but I probably have as much of a chance getting parental permission to date Nijiro as a harpy does with a tengu boy."
"Is it really that bad?"
Kurumu nodded as she steadily made her way to the back. Anagume scurried over to take her place at the end of the aisle.
"That trip to Aranami over spring break was horrible. Manami probably hates me now."
"Why?"
Kurumu sighed, stopping shy of Anagume as the tiny girl lowered for her task.
"Because I said things I shouldn't have."
Shinayaka made no response and Kurumu decided to finish up her task. Once the last speck of dirt had been pushed into the dustpan, little Anagume lifted up on her feet. Kurumu followed the girl over to the trash bin, walking around Anagume as the girl dumped the dirt into the receptacle. She opened up the storage locker, stowing away the broom.
"Thanks, Kosame. I'll take that."
Anagume smiled softly, surrendering the dustpan. As Kurumu put the pan away, the small girl scurried back to her desk in the front of the class.
"I hope things turn out better for you."
Kurumu nodded at Shinayaka as she strolled up the aisle to her desk. By the time she arrived, Anagume had recovered her things and was walking across the front of the class with Shinayaka at her side. Taking her schoolbag off the hooks, Kurumu set it on the desk and opened it up. As she put away her notebook and mechanical pencil, the two girls exited the class.
Sighing once again, Kurumu hefted her schoolbag up by its strap. Resting the strap on her shoulder, she strolled out of the classroom. She started up the flight of stairs which was right outside of her class. She reached the landing in seconds, ascending the second flight at the same steady pace.
"We must find an advisor or our club will be disbanded! Don't be so stingy! You know she wants it!"
Kurumu smirked at the dramatic delivery of Ginei's statements, guessing he was proposing for Rubi to take over the position. Shaking her head, she turned right, heading towards the closed doors of class ten. Mrs. Sunao was the advisor of the poetry club. If they were having a meeting, they were being quiet.
She strolled by the doors of class nine and eight, both of which were closed. Either Ginei was the only dummy to leave the doors open or not many clubs had meetings today. Then again, not every teacher was an advisor to a club. And some clubs did not meet in their advisor's homeroom.
Passing by the crossover to the bathrooms, the next door on her right was for the choir room. She drew the door open and was greeted by the chatter of many girls whom were all standing in front of a three tiered riser. She murmured an apology for her lateness as she closed the door behind her.
"There you are, Ms. Kurono. You are probably the only homeroom doing cleanup duties this week."
Kurumu smiled at Mrs. Tomarigi whom stood by a black metal music stand. The choir instructor had on a short sleeved, lavender blouse and a black skirt which almost touched the floor.
"Go stand with the other girls. We are about to do some introductions."
"Over here, Ms. Kurono."
Kanari beckoned to her. The adorable harpy was standing beside Zuri and Akihana. Having no reason to object to the invitation, Kurumu sauntered over with her schoolbag.
"Hey, Kanari. How has your first day of school been?"
"It was fine. Are you okay?"
"Yea. It sounded like you weren't happy with the relationship rules."
Kurumu forced a smile at Zuri.
"I don't think any couples are happy with that."
"You aren't kidding there. I think Ms. Oso is having a panic attack."
Kurumu smiled, glancing at the buxom harpy with the cotton white tresses stretching down to her curvy derriere. That was Oso Kashiko and the short harpy with the short, ashen curls was her friend, Noboto Setsuwa. The pair hailed from Kabashita and had been in Kurumu's choir group earlier today. Oso had mentioned concerns about her budding relationship with Ijouyama, a third year tengu guy whom she had already given her virginity to.
"It's not like this is a new issue for harpies. You've always had trouble with tengu parents."
"I believe that is enough gossip for now, ladies. Would you please begin the introductions, Ms. Tadayo?"
A girl with shoulder length, carrot curls stepped away from her fellow seniors. She smiled with flush cheeks and hazelnut eyes.
"Hello. I'm Tadayo Hotaru, choir club president. Third year class six."
She paused, gesturing to the two harpies she had been standing with.
"I'm in the same homeroom as three of our other seniors since we all went to junior high together. This is Oso Kashiko and Noboto Setsuwa. Ikeda Yui is over there hiding behind the piano."
The brunette waved from her seat on the bench by the black piano.
"We also have Maruyuchi Fushiko in our fifth period lunch. She's very hard to miss."
Tadayo gestured at the tall, thick girl whom was engaged to a former judo captain whom had graduated in 2005. The big girl had long black hair.
"And our last senior is Okimune Hitsumi. She has fourth period lunch."
"Hello! I might be the only third year in my lunch group but I have several kouhai whom I hope Ms. Tadayo doesn't mind me introducing."
"Uh, not at all."
Okimune brightened up even more if that was possible. She gestured at the girls by Kurumu.
"These two standing by my little sister are Umou Saezuri and Bouzuki Kanari."
"I'm not your sister."
Kurumu smirked when the girls beside her giggled.
"And these two are Natsudera Sayuri and Akushita Natsume."
Natsudera made no recognition of being introduced while Akushita waved. Unsurprisingly, Shibutani and Nakashima were standing by the pair.
"I'll turn things back over to Ms. Tadayo to introduce the other second years."
Tadayo laughed nervously, nodding.
"Thank you, Ms. Okimune. I do have two second years whom share our lunch period. Chousei Akiko and Utachi Fumenko. We also have three new girls in our lunch group but I think we are saving them for last."
Chousei nodded, standing with Utachi and the trio in question. All five of them were about the same height. One girl had cornsilk blond tresses and powder blue eyes. Another girl had hime cut bangs and shoulder length hair which was a deep midnight blue hue. The last girl Kurumu had seen in her choir elective. She had her ebony locks styled in a feathered pixie cut and was more buxom than the others.
"I don't have any third years in the sixth period lunch so if one of my second years wants to speak up."
Dakuhime sighed dramatically.
"I am Dakuhime Mayumi and this is my friend, Yokumoto Toshiko. We also have Kurono Kurumu in our lunch group but she didn't feel like eating with us."
Kurumu pouted at the slight.
"I was eating with my broadcasting club first years."
Mrs. Tomarigi chuckled, clapping her hands.
"Since we have covered all of our returning choir club members, we shall start with the new girls."
Shibutani thrust her hand up.
"I'll go first! I'm Shibutani Shion, Natsume's cousin. This is my friend Nakashima Harumi. We are in fourth period lunch and have already met Ms. Okimune."
"Which was very enjoyable."
Zuri giggled at Okimune's remark, nudging Akihana.
"You go next."
"Um… okay. I'm Akihana Tokimi. I didn't have lunch with you but I did see everyone in the choir elective. I haven't decided yet if I'll join this club or be in karaoke with Yoriko and her big sister."
"We will be delighted to have you, Ms. Akihana. And now for these other three girls."
The girl with the deep midnight blue hair took a loud breath.
"I already know most of the girls I had lunch with as I went to junior high with them. I'm Kyoushin Tomo and hope you all are kind to me."
The blond smiled softly when the other girl bowed.
"I also attended the junior high in Kabashita. I'm Hanehana Momiji. Pleased to meet you all."
Several girls echoed that sentiment before attention shifted to the last girl. The girl forced a smile as she absently caressed her bosom contained behind that green school jacket.
"I'm Karasu Hiyoko. I don't know any of you but I recognized Ms. Tadayo from my sister's graduation and figured that was where I should sit for lunch. I only have one friend whom came to Yokai Academy with me and she isn't interested in choir. Doesn't even have it as her elective."
"We are happy to have you, Ms. Karasu. Your sister was a fun girl to have in our choir."
"Never heard anyone call Kuroko fun but I'll take your word for it."
Kurumu giggled along with the other girls.
"How is your sister?"
"Still single but that might change. The big rumor over spring break was that Fairy Tale had big plans for Uchimori and that could mean more people in town."
Mrs. Tomarigi clapped her hand firmly.
"Save the chatter for later, ladies. Right now I want to do some basic exercises before figuring out which vocal range suits our new prospects best. Everybody face me and take a deep breath."
Kurumu smiled, guessing this day still could end on a better note.