Kurumu stepped out of her shower, feeling refreshed. She pranced over to the toilet, snatching up a plush towel from the tank. Bending over, she swept up every droplet from her smooth legs with the towel before straightening up to do the same to her lower and upper torso. After drying her arms, she flipped the towel behind her and sawed it across her back.

Mostly dry, Kurumu pressed the damp towel against her tresses. She wondered if she should pick up a hair dryer. There were no outlets in her tiny bathroom so she would have to dry her hair in the main room if she ever bought one. She should also get herself a real vanity with a mirror to replace her desk and a proper shelf for the butsudan. She should get prices for this stuff.

Dropping the towel on the floor, she stepped on it and dragged it about to soak up the small puddles. Snatching up the towel, she turned off the light and padded back out into the main room. She sashayed over to her refrigerator, picking up her discarded cream chemise before tugging open her closet door.

Kurumu stepped into the closet, turning on the light. She chucked the chemise and damp towel into her hamper as she sauntered over to the shelf. As it was Tuesday, her red lingerie was on top. Hunching over, she grabbed her lacy, bikini cut panties and stepped into them. Once she had that sexy fabric up to its proper place, she donned her crimson lace bra and adjusted it for a comfortable fit.

Figuring she should dress as properly as she had yesterday, Kurumu took down a school blouse from its hanger. She had it buttoned fully up in seconds, snatching the ribbon from yesterday to wield about the collar. Tying the bow took less time today. With that task finished, she grabbed one of her school skirts.

As she tightened up the waistband and tucked in her blouse, Kurumu contemplated buying some new skirts to replace the faded ones. She still had no idea how much one cost, having not visited the school store since the break. She had pitched that one with the damaged hem when she had last done laundry.

Taking a school jacket down, Kurumu retreated from the closet and turned off the light. Draping the jacket over her arm, she shut the door and sashayed over to her dresser. She tugged the top drawer out, grabbing a pair of socks before closing the drawer. Opening up her jewelry box, she stared at the studs while the music played. It was hard to tell which ones were her rubies in the darkness.

Not wanting to make a mistake, Kurumu pranced over to her desk and set her socks aside. Turning on her lamp, she returned to her jewelry box. She quickly selected her rubies, closing the box to silence the tune. Strolling back to her desk, she set aside her jacket before taking off the backs to her studs.

Once she had her earrings in, Kurumu decided to put on her socks. Finished with that task, she picked up her jacket and turned off her lamp. She darted over to her entryway, fetching her schoolbag and loafers. Shifting it all about in her arms, she moved to the foot of her bed and felt up the wall. She found Yukari's hidden device, activating it to pull open the wall.

Kurumu stepped into Yukari's dark, vacant closet. Turning about, she activated the other device to close the portal before seeking the closet's door. She heard familiar voices as she opened the door. She smiled at her four friends seated about Yukari's table.

"Good morning. Any reason why you're here, Ginei?"

Ginei chuckled, sitting next to Kokoa. His school jacket was left open while the vampire was sporting the sleeveless beige vest over her school blouse.

"Just sharing details of the party with Yukari since she skipped the club showcase yesterday."

Yukari huffed indignantly, sitting to the left of Kokoa around the corner. The witch was fully dressed for school with the red bow tied at her collar. She even had on her school jacket.

"It sounds like you two were just getting into trouble."

Kurumu smiled, sauntering over to the table. She saw the empty plates arranged on the surface.

"Did I miss breakfast?"

"No. We just ate earlier."

Rubi was wearing a new outfit. The white top had two swaths of fabric crossing over her ample bosom and meeting at a thick hem beneath her assets. It bared her midriff but had long sleeves. The hem of a very dark blue skirt rested low about her waist. It was a darker blue than indigo. It was hard to say how long the skirt was with the older witch kneeling.

"When did you get that outfit?"

Rubi grinned as Kurumu knelt at the table across from Ginei and Kokoa.

"It's a present from Yukari's parents."

"We were starting to think we would have to go fetch you."

Kurumu pouted at Yukari as she set aside her things.

"I can't be that late."

"Don't worry, Ms. Kurono."

The voice caught Kurumu off guard. She jerked back, realizing Mrs. Sendou was by the stove. The dark haired mother was garbed in a yellow blouse and ruffled black skirt which reached her knees. Yellow stockings covered her feet and calves, disappearing beneath the skirt.

"I'll make something quick for you."

"Your mother is here?!"

Yukari rolled her eyes.

"Yes. Father dropped her off last night around eight. He promised to come pick her up some time after school tomorrow. They could have warned me about this."

"It's Ms. Toujou's birthday. Of course we wanted to do something for her."

"You could have given her present and left like a normal person."

"You make this sound like some inconvenience."

"It is. We have school and Rubi has work. What will you even do with yourself today and tomorrow?"

"I can hang out with my father."

"Grandfather also has work, Mom."

"He'll make time for me. Don't fret over this."

Yukari sighed and Rubi laughed softly. The older witch gestured at the mother.

"Mrs. Sendou woke up very early to start baking me a cake."

"In the morning?"

"That is what time it is."

Kurumu pouted at Yukari.

"I just thought we would have cake at the party tonight."

Ginei chuckled, leaning back on his palms.

"I'm thinking the headmaster might have already arranged to have a cake delivered to the party."

Yukari nodded, absently fussing with the cuffs of her jacket.

"Grandfather did say that he would take care of that. He probably didn't expect his daughter would just randomly show up without notice."

"My father will be fine. Can you come get your own plate, Ms. Kurono? It's hard for me to reach things in the upper cabinet."

Ginei snickered when Kurumu got up.

"Literally asking a girl shorter than her to help."

"She's pregnant, Mr. Morioka."

Kurumu giggled, skipping over to the counter. Getting a better view of the mother's profile, Kurumu was slightly shocked to see how much more defined Mrs. Sendou's belly was. Six weeks ago Mrs. Sendou had not looked pregnant at all.

"You definitely look pregnant now!"

Mrs. Sendou laughed, making a dismissive gesture with the spatula. Fried eggs sizzled in the pan with their yolks still intact.

"Still not as big as your friend was."

Kurumu smiled, lifting up on her toes to open the overhead cabinet.

"I thought you said you wouldn't be that big until our midterms."

"That might be true six weeks from now. This little bump is normal at four to five months."

Kurumu grinned, setting the plate on the counter. The mother promptly transferred the fried egg to the plate without breaking the yolk. Mrs. Sendou returned the skillet to the stove, shutting off the burner.

"I bet that Yukari was surprised."

"She certainly was. Go eat at the table."

Kurumu giggled, fetching a pair of chopsticks from a drawer before taking her plate over to the table. She settled down with her things.

"Are you still expecting an early August delivery date?"

"They pushed it back two weeks."

"Which is only logical. Mother was saying she was only three months along but then she was claiming the doctors had given her a delivery date only five months away. Clearly someone was wrong."

"Because they were wrong, Yukari. They were trying to convince me that I had conceived before my period in November. Your father and I weren't even having sex back then."

Yukari blushed with a shiver.

"You could have told the doctors that."

"They were insisting that we might have had sex in our sleep. Some couples are known to do that."

"Why would they think that?"

Mrs. Sendou smiled at Kurumu while leaning back against the counter. The mother rested her hands on the slight swell of her belly.

"They were judging things by how far along the baby had developed. They were certain that conception had to have been early November but the cultural festival disaster stressed Tamanori out. He was not the least bit receptive to my advances."

"Did that growth stagnate or did they change the date because you argued with them?"

Mrs. Sendou laughed softly at her daughter's combative tone.

"I know my own body. Tatsuhiko won't be here on the fourth of August."

"I'm sure that those professionals have delivered more babies than you."

Mrs. Sendou sighed, patting her belly.

"I brought those high school yearbooks, Ms. Kurono. They are on Yukari's desk."

"She won't have time to go through those. She has school and a birthday party to attend."

"I don't have to take them back with me when I leave tomorrow. I'll come back for them later."

Kurumu managed a smile, deciding she should start eating her egg.

"Thank you, Mrs. Sendou. And thanks for the breakfast."

"Is that cake done yet?"

Mrs. Sendou chuckled at Yukari's impatient tone. She moved over to the stove as Kurumu cut up her egg. The orange yolk dribbled across Kurumu's plate as the mother tugged open the stove.

"Seems close enough. Help me decorate it."

Yukari sighed dramatically, getting up on her feet.

"I heard that you were also involved in their mischief yesterday. Did you get detention?"

Kurumu swallowed down a morsel, wagging her chopsticks at Yukari as the witch left the table.

"I had nothing to do with that. These two and Mr. Hosokoun were the ones in trouble."

"Which I still think unfair. There was nothing we could do to stop her rampage."

Yukari huffed as she got out a spatula to spread the icing.

"You were profiting off of something without authorization from the school."

"We were going to give that money over for the school trip anyways."

Kokoa giggled with a glint in her emerald eyes.

"She got me good. Didn't expect her to drown me."

Ginei nodded with a fanged grin.

"We've always known that Ms. Kiyomizu was formidable. I'm surprised that she got the drop on you."

Kurumu smirked, recalling that moment. It had happened shortly after the complete annihilation of the soccer team. A ball of water had suddenly enveloped the vampire, causing her to shriek in pain. Once Kokoa had lost consciousness, Ms. Kiyomizu had strolled out into the courtyard and sentenced both of the seniors to weeks of detention for not trying to stop the madness. The teacher had also admonished Kurumu, sending her home.

"She's had several lifetimes to practice masking her intent."

"If I had been using my powers on one of you spectators, I could have bested her."

Ginei chuckled, patting Kokoa on the head.

"Don't be picking more fights with the faculty."

Kurumu smiled when Kokoa swiped his hand aside.

"What exactly did Miyamoto say to start this?"

"Some nonsense about always being there to protect me. I told him to fight me but then he refused so I flattened him. I don't need a weakling acting like he can protect me."

Kurumu swallowed down her morsel, managing a smile.

"Kokoa. Miyamoto will never be stronger than you."

"Exactly. He should know his place."

Ginei chuckled softly, glancing down.

"I feel sorry for him. He genuinely cares for you."

Kokoa stiffened up.

"I possess the elder blood of the Buyouken clan. I might have enemies out for my blood the entirety of my life. I can't have liabilities like him dragging me down."

"Ouch. Well I might head to the party early with Mika to get a head start on setting things up."

Kurumu frowned at Ginei's abrupt change of subject.

"Can she afford to skip today's club showcase?"

"We won't skip the whole thing. We can head out around three. Want to tag along?"

Kurumu grimaced, instinctively shaking her head.

"I can't be ditching my club leader duties."

"You had no issue with that yesterday."

Kurumu pouted at his smirk.

"I only skipped the last hour. Other than the announcement for the music club, I didn't miss anything."

"Well I'm suspended from the club showcase today so I'll just head to town early. It will take hours to read Moka's futures so we still might be late to your party."

Rubi smiled at Kokoa, nodding.

"That's okay. As long as you make it."

"Don't worry. We won't miss it."

Kurumu swallowed down another hefty bite, working the last bit of egg onto her chopsticks.

"Did Mika's fashion club get any new members?"

Ginei chuckled as Kurumu stuffed her mouth.

"She picked up three first years. I believe one was the little sister of another member and the other two were that girl's friends."

Kurumu nodded as she swallowed down the final morsel. She set her chopsticks aside, sighing.

"That's probably Goto's little sister and her two friends."

"That sounds right."

Kurumu nodded, glancing at Kokoa.

"Ginei mentioned that your fencing club picked up three new members."

"Yea. Two girls from Hikari's village whom have a huge crush on her brother. Their names are Himura Koharu and Nenryou Kanon. They left to watch Hikari's gymnastics performance on the stage."

"I bet that Hikari likes having more girls from her village here. The only other one I recall just graduated."

Kokoa nodded at her comment.

"Ms. Netsukaze though she preferred hanging out with other seniors. I didn't get the impression that these new girls are real friends with Hikari."

"Why not?"

"They're just nice to Hikari because they want to become her brother's girlfriend."

Kurumu smiled softly, wondering if Manami thought that way about her.

"There was a third."

"Saiban Jiyou. Her brother was in the kendo club last year."

Kurumu grinned, remembering that name. That must have been the Jiyou that Yotaku had mentioned.

"I know about her."

"We are ready."

Attention shifted to Mrs. Sendou as the woman carried the cake over. The woman eased down at the table with Yukari moving to assist her pregnant mother. Mrs. Sendou murmured her thanks, placing the cake on the surface. She pointed an index at each of the candles, lighting them one at a time.

"It's too bad that Tamanori couldn't be here."

"He has work, Mom."

"I know. I can still wish that things were better. Shall we start the song?"

They started with uncertainty but finished with confidence.


Music was already playing over the speakers as they entered the Kasahara Kokka night club. The initial gathering space was a large room with benches about two of the walls. There was only one door which gave access to the rest of the club. A glass window took up most of the wall beside that door with a view of the club's office beyond.

Kurumu smirked at Ginei whom stood by the door with his arms about a tan girl with her smoky black tresses pulled up in twin tails. That was Hajihachi Mika, an okami from Morihochou. The moment her amethyst eyes caught sight of them, the older girl tried to escape his grasp. Kurumu sauntered over to the pile of schoolbags, setting her own aside.

"Mr. Morioka."

Ginei chuckled at his name being drawled out by Mrs. Senda. The physics teacher was garbed in a long sleeved, peach blouse with a ruffled, chocolate skirt. She had given Kurumu and her three friends a ride to town after the last announcement. Releasing his girlfriend, Ginei gestured at the door as Hajihachi quickly fixed up her school jacket.

"Head on in. The party is just starting."

Nyuuwa strolled over to the flush Hajihachi. Like Kurumu, she was wearing her school jacket properly.

"This must be that girlfriend Ms. Kurono has told us about. I'm Nyuuwa Ageha, a first year in class one. My father was in the broadcasting club with Mrs. Senda."

Hajihachi smiled nervously, nodding at the introduction.

"I'm Hajihachi Mika, third year class seven. I'm president of the fashion club."

"And aspiring to be a class representative."

Hajihachi shot a look at Ginei's wry grin.

"Co representative. I wouldn't have stood a chance if Mr. Hosokoun had wanted it all to himself."

"A good man. We will be spending much time together."

Hajihachi sighed with a shake of her head.

"In detention. I don't know what you did to rope him into your schemes."

"It was his idea."

Yotaku stepped forward, touching the slight swell of her bosom. Her school jacket was tied by its sleeves about her waist.

"I'm Yotaku Miko, first year class ten. I'm Ichigo's cousin."

Hajihachi brightened up with a snaggletooth grin.

"I've heard about you."

"Yes. Your cousin says you are enthusiastic and ambitious."

"I aspire to be as popular as Ms. Kurono!"

Ginei grinned, glancing at Kurumu with his different colored eyes.

"You have your work cut out for you."

"Whom is this pretty girl?"

Koyomi smiled, waving when attention shifted to her. Kurumu grinned, gesturing at the succubus whom had decided to hang out with her during the club showcase instead of being with the band. Koyomi had her school jacket open, proudly displaying her bosom.

"This is Hajinai Koyomi, first year class one. She's mute so she joined the band."

'Though my offer to join your club still stands.'

Kurumu stuck her tongue out at the girl as Hajihachi leaned against Ginei.

"You better behave yourself around that girl."

"I've been very nice to her. She likes to sit by me at lunch."

"I doubt that."

"Is everyone here?"

Ginei grinned at Kurumu when she pointed at the door.

"Almost. We're missing Moka and her crazy, little sister but everyone else is accounted for."

"Okay. We'll see you inside then."

Taking Koyomi by the hand, Kurumu headed for the door. She tugged it open which caused the volume of the music to increase. She headed inside, walking down a short corridor with a door on her left for the club's office. This hall opened up on the right for the large dance floor while a short flight of stairs was ahead of them, leading up to the stage.

Kurumu grinned upon seeing Tashikana standing behind his equipment which was set up on the stage. Thinking she should get the introductions out of the way, she steered Koyomi up the short flight and strolled over to the graduate's location.

Sensing her approach, Tashikana glanced up and grinned. His wavy lilac locks brushed upon the short sleeves of his black shirt with the yellow graphic of a featureless face wearing headphones. A pair of denim jeans completed his humble attire. His fair eyes shifted colors as he gestured at their approach.

"Evening, Ms. Kurono. I see that you have brought my cousin with you."

Kurumu grinned, glancing back to confirm that Nyuuwa and Yotaku had followed her lead.

"Well I didn't think it would be a big party so I didn't see the harm bringing some first years along."

Tashikana grinned with his eyes naturally gravitating to Koyomi.

"Could you introduce me to this lovely lady again? I was too stunned by her beauty to remember it."

Kurumu giggled, gesturing at the girl whose hand she still held.

"This is Hajinai Koyomi, a first year in class one. She's mute but likes music so she joined the band."

Koyomi bowed slightly to him which caused him to shift slightly to keep his preferred view. He smiled when her head straightened back up.

"I'm Tashikana Ichigo, former broadcasting club president."

Nyuuwa proudly stepped forward.

"Pleased to meet you. I'm Nyuuwa Ageha, also from first year class one. My father was president of the broadcasting club back when Mrs. Senda was a student."

"I've heard about you. Hopefully you joined the club which I left in Ms. Kurono's capable hands."

"I certainly have."

"Wonderful. How did your recruitment go?"

Kurumu sighed heavily, sharing a look with the other girls.

"We do have one applicant from Doronuma's brother."

"Doronuma? Isn't that the singer whom got in trouble with me?"

"That's her. We might have to take him if none of our other prospects fill out a club application."

"I don't get it. We had less people show up today than yesterday. We told everyone this morning that we would eventually be able to give the morning announcements like the news."

Nyuuwa nodded at Yotaku's complaints.

"The only person whom seemed remotely interested in your pitch was Mr. Nonezumi."

"True. He talked a lot with you."

Nyuuwa blushed slightly, making a dismissive gesture.

"That's only because he's short. He probably felt less intimidated by me."

"I'm pretty sure he isn't shorter than Ms. Kurono."

Kurumu giggled at Yotaku's remark, knowing that was true.

"He still might be intimidated by me."

"I guess. Some guys are shy around girls."

"Well it sounds like you got four members which is all you need."

"I don't know why people weren't giving us a chance. It's not like Ms. Hebihana is popular."

Tashikana frowned at his cousin's remark.

"Ms. Hebihana?"

Kurumu forced a smile, having heard about this girl only an hour or so ago.

"Hebihana Himawari, a first year from class eleven. She's some girl from Tottori whom is spreading a bunch of lies about me."

"She has almost the entire sixth floor believing that Ms. Kurono is a slut."

Tashikana laughed cheerfully with a slight shake of his head.

"Hopefully you weren't using that comic I gave you as evidence of her innocence."

"Of course not! I just found out about these rumors last night."

Nyuuwa nodded with a slight smile.

"Yea. Both of us live on the third floor. We hadn't tried talking with girls on other floors before last night. Some of the girls on the fourth floor had the same bad opinion of Ms. Kurono."

Kurumu sighed, knowing that floor was full of girls from the Umiman junior high.

"Well I kind of expected that. Nijiro's sister hasn't been happy with me."

"I don't see your boyfriend."

Kurumu groaned at Tashikana's observation.

"He didn't want to come to a birthday party during the school week."

"But he will attend mine on Sunday."

Tashikana chuckled, nodding at Nyuuwa.

"Happy birthday then, little lady. Do you need a DJ?"

"No. We're going to be at the roller rink."

"Well I hope that you have fun."

Yotaku sighed dramatically.

"It sucks that almost all of our prospects were guys."

Tashikana snickered, turning his attention back to his equipment.

"That shouldn't be a surprise with rumors of Ms. Kurono's promiscuity floating around."

"I am not promiscuous."

"Don't either of you girls have friends interested in joining?"

Yotaku huffed, rolling her eyes.

"All of my friends had a good idea what clubs they wanted to join."

"Yea. The same is true for me. Suki took a form but she also grabbed forms for the greetings and drama clubs. We have friends in both of those clubs."

Kurumu smirked when the music changed to a different song. This dork had purposefully started playing Kurumi by Mr. Children. Nijiro had bought her the album which had this song.

"I heard from Ginei that you stirred up some trouble with the town elders."

Kurumu pouted at his grin.

"We were just helping Lord Inazuma investigate the shooting on campus."

"Ah yes. Terrible thing to happen to Mr. Aono."

"I can't believe a groundskeeper killed him."

Tashikana smirked at Nyuuwa.

"Has Ms. Kurono told you when the funeral will be held?"

Kurumu winced as the two clueless first years shared a confused look.

"Not yet. I'm sure that she will when they schedule one."

"Yea. We would like to come if we can."

Kurumu forced a smile, wondering how much this guy knew about Tsukune's situation.

"I haven't spoken with Mrs. Aono so I don't know anything right now."

"Yes. Ginei also mentioned you are interested in some lady by the name of Mizukawa Ai."

Kurumu was thankful for the change in subject.

"Yes. It's someone from Elder Kunai's past. If you can find anything out regarding her, I would very much appreciate it. That stubborn old man is still clinging to this belief that my mother started that fire and murdered his grandson seventeen years ago."

"I'll see what I can find out and pass the news through Ginei or Mrs. Senda."

"Thank you. How is Lady Hineri doing?"

Tashikana sighed heavily, slouching his shoulders.

"I'm just hoping she has that baby soon. We barely had any time together as a proper couple."

Yotaku snickered, wagging a finger at him.

"Maybe you should have thought about that before putting a baby in her."

"That was just my luck. I'll stick to hugging and cuddling for a few years before thinking about putting another one in her oven. At least let her finish college."

Kurumu frowned at his remark.

"What is it with guys thinking women are ovens?"

"I never said that."

Kurumu gave him a look, knowing he just had.

"Whatever. I need to introduce these girls to the other guests."

Yotaku snorted, gesturing at the few girls lingering about the dance floor.

"What guests? There is barely a dozen people here."

Kurumu smiled, supposing that was true. The birthday girl was with Yukari. Imai and Tanaka were also present, having been invited by Yukari. The four witches lingered by a table pushed up against the far wall. This table was laden with foods while a pair of coolers rested beneath it.

Kana stood apart from the group and she was accompanied by that Kinuhana girl. Knowing that Ginei had at least been at the club showcase an hour, Kurumu surmised that the blond and her junior must have tagged along when Ginei had left campus.

Her eyes glanced to the recess on the other side of the bathrooms. She spied Mizore sitting on the far stool which flanked the counter of the bar. Tora and Umizake hovered near the snow girl, both wearing their PSC uniforms. She could not see if anyone else was in that alcove due to her vantage point.

"That might be true but I don't think most of them know you. Come on."

Still holding Koyomi's hand, Kurumu started back for the steps leading up onto the stage. She descended the short flight, veering left towards the group with Rubi.

As she neared the group, her view into the alcove with the bar became better. Kasahara Takeshi, the owner of this establishment, stood in the middle of the space surrounded by the bar counter. The dark haired man was wearing a vermillion dress shirt and black slacks. He was chatting with the other guests seated on the far side of the counter with their backs to the wall.

Headmaster Sendou was in the middle stool, wearing a dark green robe. To his right was Mr. Hakuru whom had on a black robe instead of his usual laboratory coat. On the last stool beside the chemistry teacher was Yukari's mother. She was listening intently to the conversation between the older men.

Kurumu had not thought about this much, but Mr. Hakuru was Yukari's great grandfather. The white haired man's daughter was Headmaster Sendou's wife. This woman with silver streaks in her dark hair was sitting beside Yukari's grandfather. She was wearing a dark green robe, matching her husband.

The last occupant of the table was unexpected. For some reason, Coach Yaisoku was here. The tennis instructor was garbed in a gray sweatshirt and matching sweatpants. The pregnant jorougumo had claimed the end stool next to Yukari's grandmother.

"Kurumu!"

Kurumu grinned at the greeting from Kana. She stopped shy of the girl.

"Hey Kana. I'm pretty sure that you know Koyomi and Nyuuwa. I don't believe that you have met Yotaku Miko, my other new member of the broadcasting club."

Kana grinned, turning her baby blue eyes on Yotaku.

"I haven't but you have mentioned her. I'm Zukkutani Kana, Kurumu's classmate and illustrator of the newspaper club."

Kana paused, gesturing at her friend with mint tresses braided into loops.

"This is Kinuhana Cho from my junior high. She's a first year in class four and will be joining our club."

Kinuhana and Yotaku both bowed their heads slightly, murmuring the usual response.

"Is she your only new member?"

Kana giggled at Kurumu's question.

"Looks that way. But we have so many part time members so we aren't in any danger there. Our real issue is finding a new advisor."

Kurumu smiled as a random thought crossed her mind.

"Have you guys tried asking Ms. Shuzen?"

"I don't know. Morioka made several suggestions but he didn't ask me to talk to anyone."

Kinuhana snorted at Kana's admission.

"Not a surprise. I did try asking Ms. Umiawa today but she said that she had already agreed to be the new advisor for a different club."

"She has? Which one?"

"Karaoke. I wasn't even aware that we had a karaoke club."

Kurumu smirked, having eaten lunch with the nekomusume girls earlier.

"We do but those girls might not realize they have a new advisor yet. Their former advisor, Mr. Hirata, was letting them use his homeroom for the club showcase while he was outside with the rugby team. Heida and Tobihaneru were going to join that club if they ever got a new advisor."

Kinuhana nodded with understanding.

"Those two are in my gym group. I'll share the news with them tomorrow if they still don't know."

"Have you tried asking Ms. Shotou?"

Kinuhana smiled politely at Nyuuwa.

"We had lab today so I didn't feel right bringing it up. I'll try tomorrow."

"One of you should try asking Ms. Shuzen. She might help simply because of Moka being in it."

"Wasn't she like exiled from their clan?"

Kurumu frowned at Kana's response.

"That doesn't mean she won't help."

"I overheard you discussing our new club advisor options."

Kurumu laughed as Yukari had brought the other witches closer to their exchange.

"Yes, since you won't let Rubi do it."

"Asking Ms. Shuzen is our best course of action. It's not like my Moka has quit the newspaper club."

Kurumu gasped at a sudden thought.

"I never asked if Kokoa turned in Moka's form for the softball club."

"They will be here eventually. You can ask then."

Kurumu smiled, glancing over Rubi and the two first year witches. She turned and gestured at Yotaku.

"This is Yotaku Miko, a new member of my broadcasting club. She's cousins with Tashikana Ichigo, the guy up on the stage."

"Ms. Kurono has mentioned you."

"Right! I'm Imai Rin, Yukari's cousin!"

"Second cousin."

Tanaka laughed politely at the quick correction which caused Imai to pout.

"Even so, we are related. This is Tanaka Kokono, my friend from junior high. We're from Yoshikawa."

Yukari huffed, gesturing at the pair.

"They are from Yoshikawa. I'm from Oguni of the Yamagata prefecture."

"She's the granddaughter of Headmaster Sendou!"

Yotaku laughed, nodding her head.

"I've heard about her from my cousin. Do you two already know Ms. Nyuuwa and Ms. Hajinai?"

Imai nodded enthusiastically.

"Ms. Hajinai lives on our floor in the dorm and we have lunch with Ms. Nyuuwa."

"We're both in first year class two."

"Exactly! We're going to be starting up a new club with Yukari as president and Ms. Toujou as advisor!"

Kurumu smirked, regarding Yukari.

"What happened to your agreement with Mr. Murakami?"

"It's not like we've turned in the paperwork yet. We need four members listed on our club registration form and thus far it's only the three of us."

"And me!"

Kurumu laughed at Rubi's quick interjection. She turned her attention back to Yukari.

"Are you going to recruit his three friends soon?"

"I'm letting these two handle that."

Tanaka smiled politely.

"We're going to wait for the assessment rankings. If he meets the requirements Ms. Sendou put forth, we will have him add his name to our form before turning it in."

"And if he flops, we will ask the girls if they still want to join the club without him."

Kurumu grinned at the responses, looking back to Rubi.

"We should also introduce you to Toujou Rubi, the birthday girl."

"Yes. Congratulations on your twenty first birthday."

"Thank you, Ms. Yotaku."

"Are you enjoying yourself?"

Rubi smiled softly at Kurumu's question.

"Wishing that Tsukune could be here."

"My condolences for your loss."

Rubi laughed, making a dismissive gesture as other first years echoed Yotaku's sentiment.

"It's fine. Really."

"Do you know when the funeral will be?"

Rubi frowned at Yotaku's query, shooting a pleading look at Yukari. Yukari puffed up her chest.

"None of those details are available yet. We might hear something from my Moka when she shows up. She's been spending most of her time with Tsukune's mother since the incident."

"I see. Let us know when you find out."

Imai nodded vehemently.

"Yea! I didn't even think about asking for details on the funeral."

"Because we don't really know Mr. Aono. It's rude for us to simply show up."

"But he was very important to Yukari."

Yukari made a dismissive gesture.

"We can worry about those things on a different day. Right now we should be focused on Rubi."

Kurumu was thankful for the quick change of subject.

"Yes. Did Tora give you our gift yet?"

Rubi frowned, glancing over at the bar.

"No. You bought me one?"

"Of course we did. I left it with her since I didn't trust myself to not give it to you early."

"Grandfather offered to give Rubi tutoring."

"For what exactly?"

Rubi laughed softly at Kurumu's confusion.

"For college. The headmaster and his wife will try to prepare me for the next round of entrance exams."

"Do you want to go to college?"

Rubi smiled with a slight shrug.

"Not particularly."

"More like she doesn't want to go before we graduate."

Rubi pouted at Yukari's clarification.

"It's not that! I probably can't pass the entrance exams with only a year of preparation. I might not even be able to do that with two."

"I suppose that is a fair point, considering your lack of formal education."

Kurumu giggled, suspecting that Rubi might have other motives for going to college later.

"Are you trying to go to college with friends?"

Rubi smiled softly, glancing aside.

"That would be nice but I don't know what degree I would pursue."

Yukari huffed indignantly.

"You should worry about passing the entrance exams first."

"There is no reason for me to try that hard this year. Headmaster Sendou will be busy and I'm too far behind in several subjects. I'll set my sights on the entrance exams your grade will be taking."

"There is no guarantee that you will get into the same college as my Moka."

Rubi pouted, looking down at the floor.

"Well maybe I should just go when you can."

"What does that mean?"

Yukari sighed dramatically at Imai's confusion.

"No college in Japan will take in a student under the age of sixteen. Even when I graduate at the top of my class, I will have to wait two years before I can enroll in college."

"Though she could try going to an American college."

Yukari waved a dismissive hand at Kurumu's addition.

"I'm not doing that. I will either spend those two years with friends or family. I haven't decided yet."

Kurumu smiled, having a random thought. She gestured at Rubi.

"You could always try enrolling in the colleges that Nijiro will test for."

"Why would I do that?"

"So that you could keep an eye on him for me. He is graduating a year ahead of us."

Rubi giggled, shaking her head.

"I don't think I'm smart enough for that."

"Do you honestly think that his parents will change their stance regarding you?"

Kurumu pouted at Yukari.

"It's not like that matters after he graduates. Everything will work out. You'll see."

"Don't you have a gift for Rubi?"

Kurumu smirked at Yukari, nodding.

"I'll go talk with Tora. I'll be right back."

Still having Koyomi's hand, Kurumu guided the silent succubus over to the bar area which prompted her two new club members to follow her.

"Tora! Mizore!"

Both girls looked over at her call. Mizore still had that exhausted look in her sapphire eyes while Tora grinned, gesturing at their arrival.

"Is this the results of your club recruitment?"

Kurumu smirked at Tora.

"Koyomi joined band and these other two joined before the showcase."

"How are you doing, Ms. Nazohashi?"

"I'm fine, Ms. Nyuuwa. I haven't seen you since the wedding. Is Kurumu treating you well?"

"She's trying her best. We're going to start rotating whom does the announcements."

"I heard an unfamiliar voice today. That must be you?"

Yotaku beamed brightly.

"Yes! Yotaku Miko, first year class ten. I'm Tashikana's cousin!"

"Pleased to meet you. I'm Nazohashi Tora, second year class eight. As you can tell, I'm a member of the PSC but I'm also part of the newspaper club."

"So the PSC has control of the media. My cousin wasn't kidding about them being a malicious entity."

Kurumu laughed, waving a placating hand.

"That's not the case here. Tora was never part of Lord Kuyo's PSC."

"I'm surprised that your cousin didn't inform you about that. He did impregnate the girl whom took it over after Lord Kuyo was dismissed."

Yotaku nodded thoughtfully.

"I did know that she took it over but was unsure how much things could change. His opinion on this Sabaku whom is now in charge is not very clear."

"I could reassure you that nobody has been murdered by our members since the change in leadership."

"I wouldn't say that. I did execute a pair of akaname boys whom were eating kappas."

Kurumu smiled thinly as attention shifted to Umizake. She gestured at the tall guy.

"This is Umizake Aoi and his fiancée, Shirayuki Mizore. They are both in my homeroom."

Yotaku nodded politely, murmuring the standard response to an introduction.

"How are you feeling, Ms. Shirayuki?"

Mizore favored Nyuuwa a tired smile.

"Like walking here was a mistake. At least the hospital is close by."

"Are you in pain?"

Mizore sighed at Nyuuwa's concern. She absently rubbed her belly.

"No more than usual. My mother warned me that it gets worse."

Yotaku laughed nervously.

"Yea. I'm sure that you would know it if you were having contractions. How far are you along?"

"I should be in my last week."

"Weeks. The doctors said the baby could arrive before the end of the month but made no guarantees."

Mizore let out an exasperated sigh at his correction.

"I'd like to have my body back please."

Nyuuwa and Yotaku giggled in unison. Kurumu grinned, finally letting go of Koyomi's hand.

"Did you bring our gift for Rubi?"

Tora's jade eyes brightened up with a genuine smile.

"I did. I was waiting on you."

"We can give that now."

Kurumu turned to address the first years.

"You three can hang out with Rubi and the others. No reason to linger here."

"Okay. We will see you soon."

Kurumu smiled as Nyuuwa took off, prompting Koyomi and Yotaku to follow. Tora touched the small of Kurumu's back, giving her a slight push. Kurumu started towards the door but paused at the last stool flanking the bar.

"Didn't expect to see you here, Coach Yaisoku."

"The headmaster asked me on Sunday if I would show up for this in case there were too many students in attendance. Not that I cared but having an excuse not to go to campus today was in my benefit."

Kurumu giggled, gesturing at the woman's swollen belly.

"Did you ever visit the hospital to check on that baby?"

"She's coming soon, Ms. Kurono. I'm going to talk to the other instructors to see if we can do tennis first. If we can't then I'm going to finish out the month before taking leave. If we do tennis, I'll hold out until we finish that. Either way, I'm going to be leaving things in Ms. Kurohane's hands in May."

Kurumu nodded thoughtfully, resisting Tora's subtle tug on her jacket.

"When do you think you'll be back?"

"I should take at least one month off."

"You can return after summer break."

Coach Yaisoku laughed at the headmaster's interjection.

"I'm hesitant to do that. I do have responsibilities to my tennis team."

"Let Mr. Shini handle that. He will understand."

The tennis coach sighed at the mention of the teacher helping her with the guys on her team.

"I don't want to leave everything in his hands."

"Kurumu."

Kurumu smiled, understanding Tora's impatience.

"It was nice talking to you."

Hearing the dismissive responses from the adults, Kurumu stalked by the doors to the bathrooms and janitor closet before turning left into the short hall. Tora reached the door first, pushing it open for her. Kurumu strolled through, smirking upon seeing Mrs. Senda still here with Ginei and Hajihachi.

"What are you three doing in here?"

"I'm watching the bags."

Mrs. Senda huffed at his answer.

"And I'm watching them."

Hajihachi sighed heavily, rocking on her heels.

"My mother will give her permission."

"You can wait until we have those forms on file."

"But that could be weeks from now."

"That's the school policy, young lady."

Ginei snickered at Hajihachi's pout.

"I'm going to laugh if your mother gets your form back to the school before my parents send mine."

"Got it."

Kurumu glanced at Tora whom had pulled out a small silver box from her schoolbag. The sphinx wagged it as she straightened up.

"What's that?"

"That's the gift we bought for Rubi. We're going back inside."

"Okay. We'll still be here."

Kurumu giggled, tugging open the door. Once Tora was through, she followed the sphinx down the hall. They veered right, walking straight to the group which lingered a short way from the table bearing the untouched meal. She was mildly curious when they would start doing that.

"Ms. Toujou! This is a present from Kurumu and me!"

Kurumu grinned, darting up beside Tora as they reached the group.

"Yea. We split the cost."

Rubi stepped forward, taking the gift from Tora. Bringing it close, she flipped the top open and grinned.

"Is this a silver crow?"

"It's a bird. It has a clip so you can add it to your friendship bracelet."

Rubi gasped at Tora's answer, clutching the box against her bosom.

"I didn't wear that today."

Kurumu smirked, gesturing at the witch.

"It's no big deal. I almost never wear mine."

"I have mine."

Kana proudly displayed her wrist which was encircled by a silver bracelet adorned with tiny hearts. Tora chuckled, lifting her tanned arm which made Kurumu realize that the sphinx had hers on.

"So do I but only because I remembered I would be giving Rubi's present today."

Kurumu groaned, feeling stupid.

"I left mine in the jewelry box Rubi gave me for Christmas."

"This is sweet. Thank you both. I'll be sure to add it to my bracelet."

"Does anybody know when we start eating?"

Rubi smiled politely at Imai's query.

"I was wanting to wait until Ms. Akashiya and her sister arrived."

"How long will that be?"

"No idea. Should we dance a little to pass the time?"

As nobody objected to Rubi's suggestion, they all started to pair up. Imai was quick to grab Yukari and Kana naturally partnered with Kinuhana. Being next to Tora, Kurumu decided to make the sphinx her first partner. The sphinx chuckled, accepting her embrace as they drifted away from the others. Rubi ended up with Yotaku while Koyomi and Nyuuwa joined hands. Tanaka was the odd girl out.

"Would you be interested in coming to a birthday party on Sunday?"

"For whom?"

"Nyuuwa."

Tora laughed softly as they moved about to the tune.

"That's right. She has an early birthday."

"Yea. You're only two months older than her."

Tora nodded with a distant look in her jade eyes.

"I need to go to church."

Kurumu perked up with a thought.

"And I need to talk to Headmaster Sendou about our flying sessions."

Tora sighed with a shake of her head.

"Not tonight, Kurumu. But I'm okay with the birthday party."

"Well that's good. Maybe we should invite Suzume and the others to it."

"Do they even know Ms. Nyuuwa?"

"No but we aren't reserving the roller rink just for us. They could still come."

"I'll suggest it and leave it up to them."

Kurumu smiled, humming the familiar tune as they turned slowly about. She had no idea why Tashikana was playing songs for couples when there were barely any guys at this party.

"I heard that you got that new bed."

"Just a new frame and sheets. Practically broke again."

"Sleeping better?"

Kurumu breathed in deep as the song came to an end.

"I believe so. How about you?"

"Same as usual. Time to switch up."

Kurumu sighed when Tora moved away to request a dance with Rubi.

"You're with me this time!"

Kurumu laughed, taking Yukari's hands as a lively song started up. The other girls filtered into different pairs with Kinuhana being the one left out this time.

"Having issues with your cousin?"

"She's too clingy. Almost as bad as you."

Kurumu smirked, electing not to say much during the entire song. It was a fun, familiar song which she had no interest talking over. It seemed like it was over before long.

"May I?"

Kurumu nodded, surrendering Yukari to Tanaka before she was accosted by Koyomi. Sharing a smile, she placed her arms about the waist of the succubus as a slow ballad sounded over the speakers. Koyomi leaned in to press her bosom against Kurumu while draping her arms over Kurumu's shoulders.

'This would be better with guys.'

Kurumu smirked at Koyomi's thought.

'And not that long ago you had not ever been in the company of a man.'

'It feels so good. Would you mind if I hung out with Tashikana?'

'He has a girlfriend.'

'Tell that to his thoughts.'

Kurumu sighed, moving slowly about the floor.

'You should behave yourself better.'

'I am. I discourage the boys whom get too excited and try to touch me.'

'You have guys trying to touch you?'

'Only guys in my classroom. It might be my fault from indulging in their fantasies.'

'Be careful, Koyomi. Things can get out of hand real fast.'

'Like what happened between you and Saizou.'

Kurumu nodded, recalling that brute from last year. He was dead along with many of Midou's crew.

'Exactly. I know it feels good but you must keep control of the situation.'

'I will. Those school rules help a lot.'

'What do you mean?'

'Reminding guys that their parents would refuse the relationship deters them.'

Kurumu smirked, swaying with the song.

'Because guys want a wholesome image just as much as girls. They will compromise for a one time fling if they perceive no repercussions. Happens with harpies often.'

'I thought you wanted me to behave.'

'I am warning you that your tactic might not always work.'

'I know. I should do laundry tonight.'

Kurumu laughed at the off topic thought as they finished their dance. Koyomi took off with purpose to soak up Tashikana's lechery. Guessing that was harmless enough, Kurumu approached Rubi whom had just ended her dance with Kana. Realizing Yukari had the same idea, Kurumu gestured at her friends.

"Do you want her first?"

"I suppose you can have this one."

"I'll dance with you again!"

Yukari huffed at Imai, beckoning to Nyuuwa.

"I would prefer Ms. Nyuuwa. Shall we?"

"I don't mind."

Kurumu giggled as a lively tune started playing. She grinned at Rubi while shaking her hips as the band told her to. This was a song by the Kome Kome club that Moka had the CD for as it was a Christmas gift from Rubi. The older witch had an indecisive look as she tried to match Kurumu's dancing.

"I don't know how you can be so happy."

Kurumu laughed, managing a shrug as she danced.

"I'm just optimistic. Kokoa will have good news for us."

The song was almost done when Yukari cried out Moka's name. Kurumu stopped immediately, turning on her heel. She grinned upon seeing Moka strolling towards them with her sister, Ginei and Hajihachi in her wake. The silver haired vampire had on a sleeveless, buttoned up blouse. This burgundy top had a wispy layer of fabric stitched to the wide collar. This fabric reached the lower hem of a black leather skirt which failed to reach her knees. Black leggings swept up from her black leather boots.

"Looks like the last guests have arrived."

Kurumu beckoned for Rubi to follow her as Yukari wrapped Moka up in a hug.

"I can tell that somebody missed me."

"Are you coming back to school tomorrow?"

Moka sighed heavily at Yukari's question as the group gathered around her.

"I have to. There is a vote on class representative being held tomorrow and the softball team wouldn't take my club form from Kokoa."

"They didn't?"

Kokoa shook her head, lifting up a black bag which had a large box inside it. The bag had the golden lettering for Kogyo Diana which was a fancy shoe store.

"Nope. Said that they can only accept the form from the applicant. Otherwise anybody could fill out a form for somebody else."

Kurumu nodded, guessing that made sense.

"That must be your gift to Rubi."

Moka laughed, prompting Kokoa to hand it over.

"It is. Kokoa picked it up on Sunday and left it with me."

"And then she forgot it. We had to run back to Ms. Atsumoto's apartment."

Several girls giggled as Moka made a dismissive gesture. She presented the gift to Rubi.

"This is for you from both of us."

Rubi grinned, taking the bag. The witch pulled out a white box, shifting the black bag beneath it. Taking off the lid, Rubi pulled out a long, ivory boot with fur lining and round laces fed through silver eyelets. This boot had a thick platform heel.

"These are nice."

"Are they custom made?"

Moka nodded at Tora's question.

"We put in the order before spring break. Yukari gave us your shoe size."

Rubi smiled brightly, putting the boot back inside the box.

"This is great. Thanks."

"And we also have good news."

Moka nodded at Kokoa's prompting.

"My sister says that if you visit the hospital after the party, things will get much better on Sunday."

"Hospital? Why does she need to go there?"

The confused questions from Yotaku demanded Moka's attention.

"It's nothing to concern yourself with."

"Ms. Toujou needs to give blood to help someone wake up."

Kokoa's statement only confused things more for those unaware of Tsukune's condition.

"How can he take my blood if he isn't awake?"

And Rubi's question was not helping change that.

"I'll explain later. I heard that you were waiting on us to serve the food."

Ginei laughed at Kokoa's statement, gesturing for everyone to follow.

"Sure enough. Over here."


The ding heralded the parting of the elevator doors. The dark haired orderly stepped out, striding across the tiles of this floor's lobby.

"Normally we don't let visitors this hour so you better make this quick."

Rubi followed Kokoa out of the elevator with Kurumu not far behind. They crossed the lobby, starting down a hall flanked by patient rooms.

"It's Rubi's birthday. You can make an exception."

"I know. That's the only reason why."

Kurumu had the guy under a slight charm since none of them were on the approved guest list for the night. Only Mrs. Aono was allowed to be in Tsukune's room after nine.

Most of the others had dispersed when the birthday party had concluded well over an hour ago. Yukari's mother was going to spend the night with her parents while Tora had gone home with the other girls. Only Moka and Yukari remained, waiting downstairs in the lobby. Kokoa had thoroughly explained her visions so there was no uncertainty of what had to be done.

The orderly stopped at a door, knocking before opening it. He stepped inside.

"You have visitors."

Kurumu followed the other two in, smiling when she saw Mrs. Aono standing next to the hospital bed. The dark haired mother was wearing a yellow blouse and brown skirt which was likely an outfit she had recovered when they had attended the graduation of Tsukune's cousin. Her son was lying on his back in the bed with most of his head covered in white bandages. Only his nose and mouth were exposed.

There was not much else in the room other than a chair for guests and a window. Several cords were hooked to Tsukune's arm. One was connected a beeping machine, monitoring his heart rate. Clear cords ran from bags on a silver rack to a needle jabbed into his arm. White wrappings held the needle in place.

"Evening, Ms. Toujou. How was your birthday?"

"It was great. Moka and Yukari are in the lobby with my presents."

The mother smiled, turning tired eyes upon Kurumu.

"Good to hear. How are you, Ms. Kurono?"

Kurumu forced a smile.

"Fine. Nothing special to report."

"Do you girls need anything?"

Kokoa chuckled at the orderly's query. She shook her head with a dismissive gesture.

"No. This shouldn't take too long."

"You can go."

The man nodded at Kurumu's instruction. He retreated to the door.

"I'll check back on you in a half hour."

Kurumu smiled as the orderly closed the door behind him. She sucked in a deep breath, steeling her nerve for what she had been told.

"I don't have any news that you don't already know. The blood Ms. Akashiya and her sister gave him has stabilized his condition but he's in a deep sleep. The doctors don't know when or if he will ever wake up, let alone what condition he will be in. There was so much brain damage."

"We know, Mrs. Aono. I'm supposed to give him blood today."

The mother laughed in disbelief.

"But you're not a vampire."

"I know. He will have to take it himself."

"How? He's not even conscious."

Kokoa made a placating gesture.

"We know. Like you said, he is in a deep sleep. And dreams are Kurumu's specialty."

Kurumu smiled meekly when the mother looked to her.

"You can wake him up?"

"Sort of. Kokoa saw me bringing him out in like a trance. He should be able to take Rubi's blood."

"And then he will be okay?"

"Not immediately. He'll fall back in a slumber. I will need to give him my blood one more time over the weekend and then he will regain consciousness on Sunday. Most of the time."

Mrs. Aono laughed softly with a haunted look.

"Sunday. Five more days."

"That's the best we can do, Mrs. Aono."

"I'll be taking over Moka's morning shift for the rest of the week."

Mrs. Aono whimpered at Rubi's declaration.

"But Ms. Akashiya's blood-"

"She can't keep giving it out, Mrs. Aono. His condition hasn't really improved despite her donations on Sunday and yesterday. Ms. Toujou is his blood claim. The act of him taking her blood helps much more. And when I give my blood a second time, he should wake up."

"Can't you give him more blood now?"

Kokoa shook her head firmly.

"No. Taking Rubi's blood tonight appears to be the most beneficial towards his physical recovery. I can only surmise that I haven't fully recovered from the last time I gave him blood. Things work best if I give him my blood after taking Hikari's blood."

Mrs. Aono sighed, turning her attention back to her son.

"I suppose that I have to trust you. That's more optimistic than what the doctor will promise me."

"Right. You're up, Kurumu."

Kurumu grimaced, stepping over to the side of the bed.

"Are you absolutely sure that I have to kiss him?"

"I have no idea what you do to him, Kurumu. But every scenario that involves him taking Rubi's blood involves you kissing him."

"You're so lucky."

Kurumu pouted at Rubi.

"I have a boyfriend."

"I'm aware of that, Kurumu, but this is what works. It might be because of the damage to his brain that you can't connect to his mind in less intrusive ways."

Kurumu grumbled, having suspected that herself. That was why she had not voiced her concerns earlier, certain that Yukari would have made the same conclusion.

"Humor me a little. I have to try."

Kokoa shrugged nonchalantly as Kurumu placed her hands on Tsukune's shoulders.

"I don't care. It will only make this take more time."

Kurumu breathed in deep and closed her eyes. She focused her mind and pressed outwards. Almost instantly she hit an impenetrable will, causing her mind to recoil. She could feel his presence but there was a terrifying barrier between them. Like they were on opposite sides of a glass wall that emanated chaotic emotions to drive any perpetrators away. She had never encountered this before, wondering if this had anything to do with him being a Shinso vampire. But if that was true, why had she not felt such terror from dabbling with Fujisaki's mind?

Because he let her in.

Shivering, Kurumu opened her eyes. She had blown through Tsukune's defenses before despite him losing all control of himself. Kokoa was right. She was going to kiss him because it was the easiest way. She was glad that Nijiro was not here and hoped nobody told Tsukune about this.

"Forgive me."

Kurumu leaned in, placing her lips against his. There was a natural reaction on his part to the kiss. That was why she was able to smash through his barriers. This kiss was linked to his passionate, subconscious memory of the time they had thoroughly enjoyed each other in the Shuzen Estate. It was an experience through a dazed filter that she had never bothered to erase as he never had fully remembered it.

Kurumu shied away from the temptation to revel in this moment. She grabbed hold of a portion of his consciousness, steering him through scattered, incoherent memories. The brain damage was extensive. Everything was messed up. Incomplete. Fragmented. It would take hours to fix this. Maybe even days.

Knowing that was not her task at this moment, Kurumu pulled up her own memories to help guide her search. She wanted a time where he had taken blood from Rubi. She distinctly recalled that moment before they had boarded the plane to Hong Kong. He had taken blood from Rubi's shoulder.

Her vivid memory helped him repair his own on the encounter. It was the first time he had taken blood without being berserk. She showed him her perspective which helped him piece together the situation from his own. He had been timid. Uncertain. Frightened of harming Rubi. It had taken Moka's harsh reminder of his father's death to fuel his desire to become stronger.

Becoming stronger by taking blood. That was the will that had brought forth his fangs. She refocused that desire, encouraging his awareness that he did need to get stronger. He needed blood to protect his mother from the town elders. That made him desperate. He wanted Rubi badly.

Kurumu flinched upon feeling fangs on her lips. Her eyes snapped open and she quickly pulled back. Tsukune gasped and panted. His fangs were enlarged as he made piteous sounds.

"Tsukune?! Is he awake?!"

"He's in a dream."

Kurumu nodded at Kokoa's clarification. She withdrew her hand from his far shoulder while leaving the other on him. She was still connected to his mind, fueling his desire to take blood.

"He wants Rubi now. He needs her to protect you."

"Me?"

Kurumu smiled, feeling the pain of Tsukune's loss.

"Yea. When he first took Rubi's blood on his own. It was you. He had just lost his father. It wasn't revenge that finally made him able to bare his fangs. It was the desire to protect you."

Rubi laughed nervously, stepping closer.

"He looks like a wild beast."

"In the visions, you always lie on top of him with your back to him."

"I do?"

Kokoa nodded firmly.

"Yes. Now I understand why. It must be how he took your blood from you that time."

"Will Ms. Toujou be okay?"

"Yes. Though we often leave the room."

Kurumu laughed softly, keeping her hand on his shoulder.

"I don't know if I dare to do that."

"I was speaking for myself and Mrs. Aono. I'm guessing that Ms. Toujou enjoys this too much."

Rubi giggled, clambering on top of Tsukune.

"Well I don't mind it if he gets a little rough."

Mrs. Aono laughed nervously, getting up from her stool as Rubi rolled onto her back.

"I believe I will follow that advice, Ms. Shuzen. I'm unfortunately aware of how vocal Ms. Toujou is."

"This way then."

Before the two could leave the room, Rubi cried out in pleasure when Tsukune's fangs sank in.