"You should head on to work ahead of us."
Rubi frowned as they drifted over to the door to Moka's suite. The older witch had on the long sleeved, pinstripe dress shirt with a pair of textured gray slacks. She glanced in the direction of the trail.
"Are you sure?"
Yukari adjusted the strap of her white satchel to be perfectly on top of her schoolbag's strap. The young witch had a red bow tied at her collar while her green school jacket was zipped up.
"We are running late, Rubi."
Kurumu smirked, knocking on the door. She had her schoolbag strap nestled in the valley of her bosom. She was wearing the beige, sleeveless vest over her school blouse today.
"Not that late."
"I'll see you after school then."
"In the main lobby. You are coming with us."
"I will. I'm going now."
Yukari made a shooing gesture, prompting Rubi to depart. Turning slightly, Yukari regarded Kurumu.
"How much longer is your treatment of Tsukune's memories going to take?"
Kurumu managed a smile, offering a shrug before knocking again.
"I can only do so much in two hours."
"That's not what I asked."
"Well I'm in familiar memories now. I stopped at the start of his sixth grade year last night."
"When will the doctor let him return to school?"
Kurumu smiled, hearing the deadbolt turn back.
"I'm sure that he will be back in school when Kokoa predicted."
The door eased open, revealing Kokoa was ready for school with the beige vest over her school blouse. The vampire had her silver tresses up in a high ponytail secured by a red and black plaid bow. Kokoa sauntered out, holding her schoolbag's strap which rested upon her left shoulder.
"You two are later than usual."
Kurumu made a dismissive wave as the vampire reached into her schoolbag to fish out her keys.
"Maybe ten minutes at most."
"Closer to fifteen."
Kurumu stuck her tongue out at Yukari.
"Big deal. We will still get there before the first bell."
Moka chuckled, drifting into view. The older sister had left her school jacket open but had a red bow tied beneath the blouse's collar. She adjusted her schoolbag's strap on her shoulder as she wiggled her feet into her loafers. Her unbound silver hair cascaded down her back.
"Where is Rubi?"
"I sent her ahead since we were so late."
"We are not late!"
Kokoa snickered at Kurumu's frustration as her sister sauntered out. Moka closed the door, locking it up.
"You should have kissed him."
Kurumu pouted as Yukari started off, prompting them to follow.
"I am not kissing Tsukune with Nijiro around."
Moka snickered, effortlessly matching Kurumu's stride.
"You shouldn't be kissing Tsukune anyways."
"You know what I meant. Could you imagine how mad Nijiro would be if I was doing that?"
"Yea. He was pretty upset with how you handled things with Ms. Hebihana."
"That wasn't even my fault."
Moka shrugged as they neared the path leading out of their clearing.
"He knows that. But he was right that you should have brought it to a teacher's attention that morning."
Kurumu sulked as they started down the trail through the woods.
"I didn't want to think about it. Especially with her being right about me and her sister's boyfriend."
"Yea. I certainly didn't expect you to tell us about your drunken antics at that Christmas party or any of those other stories about your time with your first boyfriend."
"Well Nijiro wanted to know more about Takada. It's not like the other stories were that bad."
"You basically admitted to cheating on your boyfriend in almost every story."
Kurumu frowned, recalling the memories that she had shared. Other than the flying lessons, most of her activities with Takada had involved another guy or two. That had been deliberate as she had nearly lost her virginity to him on his fourteenth birthday which had been almost two months after hers. They had been kissing and might have gone all the way if he had not accidentally creamed his shorts.
"Flirting with other guys is not cheating."
"I doubt Mr. Amesuki thinks that way. It was a very quiet walk back."
They had already reached the small clearing at the end of this trail. Drifting right, they took the widest trail leading out of this area.
"I still think that a kiss would have been more efficient. Tsukune could have been back in school by now."
Kurumu grimaced at Yukari's declaration.
"You're assuming that his memory is the reason why the doctor is keeping him there."
"It may not be the entire reason but it is a concern."
Kurumu frowned at Moka's statement.
"Did Kokoa check your future to confirm he will still be in the hospital after school today?"
"She did and he will be there."
"Was there any particular reason why you didn't warn Kurumu about that lunatic's second attack?"
Kokoa shrugged at Yukari's question.
"There was never any risk to Kurumu's life. She only died if that other succubus skipped gym which was extremely rare. And sharing too much information increased the odds of Ms. Hebihana dying."
"Was that a problem?"
"Yes, Yukari! I didn't want her to die!"
"I had a feeling that was the case."
Kurumu sighed at Kokoa's mild amusement.
"Well I lost a blouse over this incident. Would you be willing to buy a new one for me?"
"Perhaps we can visit the school store during lunch."
Kurumu mulled the offer over before shaking her head.
"That would be too much of a hassle. Can we do it after gym?"
"I'm the representative of my class. You want me to skip last period?"
Kurumu laughed, supposing Kokoa was not in a position to be skipping classes.
"Not the entire period. Nagisa can tell Mr. Wada where you are."
"I suppose we can do that."
"Can we also buy at least two skirts? Half of the skirts that I have left are faded from bleaching out blood stains and I have no desire to salvage my skirt from yesterday."
"Fine. I can buy two skirts for you. Is this one of your faded ones?"
Kurumu smirked, presenting her skirt.
"Actually this is the second best one I have. I've been wearing my nicest one on Mondays."
"Maybe I should get three."
"Two is fine. I'll be wearing that skirt for the PSC at least once a week."
"It's not like the skirts are expensive."
"Is Ms. Hebihana going to continue being a threat?"
Attention shifted to Yukari which made Kurumu aware of how close they were to the end of this path.
"I don't really know. Telling her the truth about my sister starting the fire squashed any possibilities of immediate retaliation but it's not like I looked days into the future."
"That was remarkably cruel of you."
Kokoa shrugged nonchalantly as they turned left, heading towards the school on the main path.
"If she wants revenge, her issue is with Kahlua. Killing her sister is far worse than sucking the dick of her sister's boyfriend."
"You did that?"
Kurumu pouted at Yukari's amused tone.
"It was that one time while I was drunk!"
"I believe you though I can't say if Mr. Amesuki does."
Kurumu sighed at Moka's remark.
"Well hopefully that is the last I hear from Hebihana."
They walked in silence, passing by the thin woods near the pond on their left. Moka lengthened her stride so that she could walk alongside Yukari while Kurumu remained with Kokoa.
"How was your first club meeting with your cousin?"
"Second cousin. And it was productive unlike my other club's meetings."
Moka chuckled at Yukari's answer.
"Well Ginei has detention."
"That's no excuse. He should be a better role model for his newest club member."
"Did you decide on a meeting place?"
"Rubi will accompany us to the East dorm after school. We will speak to Ms. Takahashi about using one of the study rooms every Monday, Wednesday and Friday."
"So you'll be with the newspaper club on Tuesdays and Thursdays."
"That was obvious."
Kurumu pouted at Yukari's response to her observation.
"I was just thinking that the choir has those days off. I could hang out with you guys."
Moka chuckled as they closed in on the spot where the trail diverged.
"I wouldn't mind doing that but I don't see that happening any time soon."
The softball team had still been practicing when Kurumu had shown up after detention yesterday.
"Doesn't your team have off days?"
"Not if Coach Kanatoko can help it. We have eight new first years in addition to me whom have no team experience. She wants to practice every afternoon if possible."
Kurumu nodded, trying to recall things from her article that she had done almost a year ago.
"Doesn't the baseball team have priority when it comes to using the fields?"
"They do and that might become an issue when we get closer to the start of the season."
"When is that?"
Moka grinned at her sister as they drifted right, favoring the path to the main school gate.
"The first weekend of July."
"Are you going to be a starter?"
Moka sighed at Kurumu's query.
"We did get a first year interested in being the catcher but Coach Kanatoko prefers me taking the spot."
"Because you're more athletic."
"Do you know whom this other girl is?"
Kokoa shrugged at Kurumu.
"Doesn't matter. Moka is a vampire which makes her more athletic than all other monsters."
"That is true. The girl's name is Taneushi Sara and she's in the same homeroom as the twins. She will be my relief catcher and help the relief pitcher warm up during games."
Kurumu nodded at Moka's explanation, thinking about twins.
"I noticed that Koike's little sister and that Zaisan girl have lunch with the Takeuchi twins. Are they new members of the softball team?"
"Mhm. We've had two girls join our lunch table from Mr. Ichida's village. I get the impression that Ms. Kuchibase has a thing for her brother and that Ms. Jikitori is around to keep her behaved."
Kurumu grinned, recalling those girls.
"We met those two at the class rep meeting."
"Along with the Ashibue twins whom I presume to be the twins you referenced when mentioning Ms. Taneushi. Whom is the last new member of your team?"
Moka grinned brightly at Yukari's inquiry.
"That would be Kazan Atsuko. She's the one with the orange ponytail. I confirmed yesterday that she's from Ms. Akegawa's village."
"Does she have a crush on Hikari's brother?"
"I'm not going to ask her about that."
They were already near the spot where they had passed out papers the first time almost a year ago. The start of the perimeter wall was visible through the thin woods on their left.
"I forgot to ask about Mizore's condition yesterday. Did the doctor have any news?"
Kurumu managed a smile for Moka's remark, having talked with the couple during biology lab.
"Just that she's full term. We've always known that this could go an extra two weeks."
"I haven't seen her since the shooting. I should talk with her before I go to softball practice today."
"You'll have to stop by before lunch if you want to do that."
Kurumu shrugged at Yukari's warning.
"Umizake is right about there not being a point for Mizore to stay for the afternoon classes. She can't participate in gym and there isn't a grade for her culture elective."
"That makes sense. I wonder when she'll have her baby."
"You could always have your sister check Shirayuki's future."
Kokoa snorted at the suggestion as the boards flanking the trail came into view. The upper level of the school could be seen through the woods over the perimeter wall.
"A comprehensive look would take hours. I'm in no mood for a sleepover with Shirayuki."
"I think Mizore would appreciate knowing exactly when Hatsue will be born."
"The only sleepover you need to concern yourself with is the one I'm having this Friday with Hotaru. I'll probably need Hikari around to keep that girl under control."
Kurumu smiled thinly, realizing that Friday was only two days away.
"Ushio's birthday is on Friday."
"You don't need to do anything for him."
Kurumu sighed at Yukari's swift response.
"I know. I should tell him about Nijiro's decision on that."
"I'm surprised you didn't do that yesterday."
"Yea, but it would have been fun to do something with the cheerleaders."
"Which would require skipping choir."
Kurumu snorted as they passed by the first of the boards.
"It's not like that would be a big deal."
"Maybe not to you but it would upset Mr. Amesuki. It was quite obvious that he only wants you doing things that are absolutely necessary for school and club. Anything else you need his permission for."
"I'm aware of that, Moka."
"He's already acting like he's doing you a big favor by allowing you to help Tsukune. And considering you admitted to being a shameless flirt in junior high, he's not going to change his mind about this."
"Is this gesture towards Mr. Burumoto worth antagonizing your boyfriend even more?"
Kurumu sighed, knowing her friends were right about this.
"I know. I guess I will have to let Ushio down easy."
"I'm surprised that your juniors aren't waiting out here."
Kurumu frowned at Yukari's gesture at the main school gate up ahead.
"That is kind of odd."
"Maybe they are running even later than we are."
Kurumu doubted Yukari's conclusion as they strolled through the gate. On a whim, she trotted by Yukari and Moka. She arrived at the main door, holding it open for them.
"They're probably inside with Mrs. Senda."
"Probably. See you after school."
Kurumu nodded at Moka's statement as the vampire crossed the threshold with Yukari. She waited for Kokoa to pass her by before entering herself. She sauntered over to the aisle with her slippers, following Yukari to the end. She spied little Nyuuwa in her full uniform lingering at the base of the central stair.
"Looks like one of them is here."
Yukari sounded an affirmative as they stopped in front of their cubbies. Kurumu tugged her slippers out, dropping them by her feet. She stepped out of her loafers, bending down to retrieve them. Donning her slippers, she straightened up and stuffed her loafers into her cubby.
"See you soon."
Kurumu nodded at Yukari whom stepped up from the genkan a moment before her. She headed straight for Nyuuwa while the witch angled to the left.
"Morning, Ageha."
"Morning, Ms. Kurono."
"Why are you waiting out here?"
Nyuuwa smiled as Kurumu stopped by her. She gestured upstairs while holding her schoolbag.
"Mrs. Senda and the others are already in the broadcasting room."
"Others?"
"Some students whom were interested in our club."
Kurumu brightened up at the news.
"Then we should join them."
Nyuuwa nodded, joining Kurumu on the ascent to the central landing.
"Mrs. Senda told us about your altercation with Ms. Hebihana."
Kurumu chuckled, arriving on the landing. She drifted left, heading up the curved flight.
"Yea but that shouldn't be an issue now. Kokoa literally scared the piss out of her."
"It was just one day of detention, right?"
Kurumu nodded when they reached the upper floor. She drifted over to the broadcasting room's door, grabbing the knob.
"So far. Never know if the faculty will change their mind."
She frowned when the knob refused to turn. She laughed, knocking firmly.
"Didn't expect them to lock it."
It was not long before the door was pulled open by a girl whom was not much bigger than Yukari. She had her black hair spun about in two tiny buns above her ears. A boxy pair of dark purple framed glasses rested on her tiny nose.
"Ms. Kurono, I presume."
Kurumu giggled at the raspy pitch of this girl's voice. Stepping inside the room, Kurumu quickly spotted Yotaku sitting on a stool off to the right with the camcorder directed upon her. This camcorder was being supervised by Kuroishi of the film club. His dark hair was styled in a bowl cut.
"That's better. You never want to directly look into the camera as an actress."
Tatsumaki was this guy with several blue and yellow studs piercing the lobe of his right ear. His left ear might be similarly adorned but his blond locks hid that one. He was a member of the film club though he cared little for taking pictures. He was more interested in the cinematic aspect of film.
"But I'd be doing the announcements."
"It doesn't hurt to practice, Ms. Yotaku."
"Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu smiled at Mrs. Senda, hearing the door close behind her. The physics teacher was sitting on a stool by the control panel, wearing a long sleeved, faded blue blouse with a black skirt which hugged her legs all the way down to her calves. The woman beckoned to her.
This short guy on the stool near the teacher was Nonezumi Izuki from Yotaku's homeroom. His charcoal locks were trimmed in a bowl cut which hid his ears and his eyes. He clearly could see through his thick bangs as Kurumu could feel his fantasy of burying his face in her bosom just like her schoolbag's strap.
"Any particular reason why the film club is here?"
Mrs. Senda chuckled as Kurumu sauntered over to join her.
"I have Mr. Tatsumaki in my class. I mentioned the other day that the broadcasting club would televise our announcements."
"That isn't happening this year."
Tatsumaki laughed heartily, stroking his chin as he regarded Kurumu with hazel eyes. She shuddered, enduring his sexual appraisal.
"You would be an amazing actress, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu reflexively moved her arm to hinder his view of her bosom.
"I'd rather not."
"Nonsense. It would be a crime if the students of Yokai Academy never saw you in your full glory."
"Well there is that comic."
Kurumu made a shushing sound at Yotaku's offhand remark.
"We should aid you with your transition to becoming televised."
"The school doesn't have the funds."
Tatsumaki grinned at Mrs. Senda's gentle reminder.
"True but this isn't the first time the school has planned for the future without everything in place. They built three computer labs in that expansion over a decade ago but only recently did we get a computer elective course which utilized them."
"Because they had no computers, Mr. Tatsumaki. It took years for Mr. Yokoyama to buy enough used computers to fill up those labs."
"You should get a green screen."
Tatsumaki grinned at the suggestion from the little girl.
"Not a problem, my little lady. I acquired one over winter break along with software to make use of it. We could overlay any background we want behind Ms. Yotaku."
"What's a green screen?"
The little girl regarded Kurumu with a blank expression.
"It's a green screen."
"I gathered that much."
"It's for making movies, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu glanced at Kuroishi whom had answered. The senior's attention remained on the camcorder.
"You can record someone in front of a green screen which will be replaced by a background of your own choosing. You just have to make sure the actors aren't wearing something the same shade as the color you are replacing. The screen doesn't have to be green."
"Those screens tend to be a color that most people won't be wearing."
Kurumu nodded at the young girl's addition.
"Are you his sister?"
"Yes. My name is Kuroishi Michi. Pleased to make your acquaintance."
"And with the right software, you can even change the background as you are filming."
The girl nodded at Tatsumaki's comment.
"Yes though you would need a computer here to do that."
Mrs. Senda chuckled, gesturing at the control panel.
"One of the many things that did not make it into the school's restoration budget."
"I can bring my green screen and laptop here if that would be of any help. If only I had these resources when my colleagues shot the raw footage of Ms. Chouda's performance. I could have made our film for the cultural festival a genuine masterpiece!"
Kurumu smirked, recalling Chouda's role in that silent movie.
"Well even if you brought your toys, we have no televisions in the classrooms."
"Perhaps we could ask around town and see if some of the locals would be willing to donate televisions? Surely televisions are easier to come by than computers."
Kurumu rolled her eyes at his suggestion.
"I doubt anybody is going to donate their television to the school."
"Maybe we could ask a store selling televisions?"
Tatsumaki snapped his finger at Yotaku's query.
"An excellent idea. Surely if someone is buying a new television, they have no use for their old one."
"Assuming they have an old one and that it isn't broken."
Kurumu snickered at Kuroishi's contribution in a flat tone.
"I'm in no hurry to be televised."
"And you are far too pretty to be shy."
"Ms. Kurono isn't shy."
Nyuuwa's prompt remark to Tatsumaki made Kurumu smile softly.
"It was never my intent to monopolize the morning announcements. We had Yotaku do them yesterday and it will be Ageha's turn today."
"I never said that we would only have you before the camera. I'm sure that each of you ladies have your own unique charms to bring to the screen."
Kurumu snorted, hearing the first bell sound the impending start of the school day.
"Unless you can find a television for all thirty six homerooms, we aren't being televised this year."
Mrs. Senda hopped off her stool, clapping her hands.
"That's enough for today. As fun as it was to have you visit, all students not enrolled in my broadcasting club need to head to their homerooms."
Tatsumaki sighed dramatically, gesturing at Yotaku.
"Alas, my dear, but it seems that our time has ended. But worry not. I will do whatever it takes to see that you have your day in the sun."
Yotaku giggled as the door to the room was opened. Nonezumi departed while the little girl beckoned.
"Time to go, Brother."
Kuroishi nodded, turning away from the camcorder.
"That's a nice model. I'd like to use it."
"And you shall. Farewell."
Kurumu smirked as Tatsumaki followed the Kuroishi siblings out. Nyuuwa sauntered over to the door which had closed on its own, locking it to prevent any unwanted visitors.
"Do you think he can pull it off?"
Mrs. Senda chuckled, shaking her head at Yotaku's question.
"I'd be surprised if he scrounges up a dozen televisions before he graduates."
"Maybe I should help him out. I can be quite lucky."
Kurumu snickered, knowing Yotaku had the same good fortune as her cousin.
"Do you want to be an actress that badly?"
"Why not? It's a guaranteed way to skyrocket my popularity."
Kurumu snorted at this girl's optimism.
"I'm starting to think you'd fall for those sleazy guys that talk girls into making adult films."
"I'm not the one with the sleazy comic."
Kurumu clucked her tongue, strolling over to the stool that Nonezumi had vacated. Having no reason to part with her schoolbag, she clambered up on top of the seat.
"You'll need this, Ms. Nyuuwa."
As Nyuuwa moved to take the microphone from Mrs. Senda, Kurumu hoped that this was the start of an uneventful day.
"How are you feeling?"
Mizore smiled weakly, sitting with her feet over the side of her chair which flanked the windows. Moka was hunched over the snow girl with both hands on the pronounced curve of Mizore's school blouse. Her belly was too swollen to tuck in the blouse, hanging over the hem of her skirt.
"I'm feeling great."
"Thanks to the painkillers. I'll have to give her another dose when we get home."
Mizore grumbled at his discrete mention of Hatsue's opiate.
"I don't want you to kiss me."
"We can't leave you like this. Your mother would scold me."
Umizake had explained his plan to Kurumu yesterday. He was only going to kiss Mizore twice a day to flush out her system. The first time was when they were changing shoes after arriving at school and the other time was when they got home.
"My mother doesn't love me. She wants me to suffer."
Moka giggled, lifting one hand to caress Mizore's cheek. The vampire had just stopped by, having been excused from Mr. Ishihara's class a few minutes early. Since it had been close to the bell, Mrs. Unsei had decided to end her lecture. The English teacher was sitting behind her desk, wearing a short sleeved, yellow blouse with a glossy black skirt.
"That's not true."
"They could have induced me on Monday."
The bell sounded the end of the period. Attention shifted to Mrs. Unsei as the instructor stood up.
"We will be having a quiz tomorrow so please study tonight. Good luck."
Kurumu smirked as the teacher strolled towards the front door. Having already put away her things, she scooted out of her seat with her lunch card in hand.
"I'll see you after school, Moka. Don't have too much fun with Mizore."
Moka straightened up, glancing at Kurumu with a slight smile.
"I won't be late for my next class."
Kurumu grinned, pausing to tousle Yukari's hair. The witch stopped writing in her notebook, scowling as she batted Kurumu's hand away.
"I'm going through the line today."
Yukari sighed dramatically, having been warned of Kurumu's intentions earlier this day.
"Fine. I'll figure out what to do with your lunch."
"Kurumu!"
Burumoto grinned wide, lingering by the open door. He had asked about her plans for her birthday and she had promised him that they could discuss it over lunch.
"It's your funeral."
Kurumu snickered at Yukari's muttering as she passed by Kana's desk before the blond stood up. She made a shooing gesture with her lunch card at Burumoto as she approached.
"Go on. I'll be right behind you."
She followed the big guy out of the room, leaving before any other girl of her class. Due to his slow pace, she easily caught up to him as they favored the right side of the hall. His appreciation of her curves gave her warm satisfaction. He was enjoying the memory of the one time he had seen her in a cheerleader outfit last July, hoping he could get a closer and more personal experience this time.
"Don't get too excited, Ushio. We will be eating with Nijiro."
Ushio chuckled as they strolled down the busy hall towards the end of the forming lunch line. Even with the quick exit they would still be behind most of the second year students from the other homerooms.
"I'm glad that he agreed to it."
Kurumu clucked her tongue as they closed in on the end of the line which was almost to the first door to Ms. Yumeito's lab.
"I never said that. He doesn't want me making a scene with the cheerleaders."
Burumoto nodded with a thoughtful expression.
"Something more private then? We could do it at your place while you're making a cake."
Kurumu laughed, admiring his confidence.
"Which homeroom is your cousin in?"
He frowned as they came to a stop behind their classmates: Yakuza, Boyogaro and Musousaki. Ahead of the trio were the Takeuchi twins whom were behind Senyou and Sasaki. The two okami guys from the cycling club were chatting with Kiba and Nikki.
"Ms. Kuwabara's homeroom."
"Hey, Ms. Kurono."
Kurumu grinned as Kyubane and Juntaku of the cheerleader squad settled in behind them. Some first years would reach the line before the nekomusume girls of the karaoke club did.
"Hey, Kyubane."
"You're in line earlier than usual."
"She needs to borrow a cheerleader outfit from you."
Kurumu wagged her lunch card at him as the two girls giggled.
"She could probably fit in mine."
Kurumu sighed at Kyubane's offer. Kyubane with the wavy, platinum blond locks was the shortest of this pair. Juntaku with the pleated, vermilion tresses was taller than Moka.
"Don't listen to this dummy. There is no way that Nijiro is going to allow me to strut around in one of your cheerleader outfits for his birthday."
"But you could do it while baking a cake."
Kurumu smirked at him while the cheerleaders giggled.
"I have friends in the choir whom are in homeroom with your cousin. I'll have them talk to her about doing something special for your birthday."
Burumoto shrugged nonchalantly.
"I guess you could do that but Coach already has something planned for Saturday. We put it to a vote yesterday and decided upon bowling. We will meet around eleven. You could bring your boyfriend."
"I'm not going to attend a party where I'm the only girl there."
"I could invite my cousin so you won't have to worry about that."
Kurumu sighed at his apathetic attitude.
"Ushio. Don't you want to meet a girl from your cousin's community?"
His demeanor shifted from uncaring to despondent.
"You must really want me to find someone else."
Kurumu managed a smile, glancing at the cheerleaders. Both made quick defensive gestures.
"Don't look at us!"
"He's way too big!"
Burumoto chuckled at their hasty protests.
"You know I was about your height my first year of junior high."
Juntaku laughed nervously.
"Yea, well, I wasn't much shorter in junior high. Doesn't change the fact that you are easily more than twenty centimeters taller than me."
"Probably thirty more than me."
"Guys being taller than girls is normal for my kind. Minori is only a little taller than you."
Kurumu smiled softly at his gesture towards Juntaku.
"I'd be willing to help you find a girlfriend if you're not happy being single."
Burumoto sighed as they neared the other door to Ms. Yumeito's lab near the end of this hall.
"I don't really know any of Minori's classmates."
Kurumu smirked, thinking of Kanari and the other harpies from Hankyouta.
"Tsukune is in that classroom."
Burumoto laughed heartily, drifting by the door.
"I'm aware of that. I was meaning that I don't know any girls from Minori's community. The only ones I know about are Ms. Keishutani whom I know is spoken for and Ms. Kettou whom graduated."
They shuffled into the intersecting hall. The line of students ahead of them angled towards the serving area while mixing in with the third years coming from the other direction.
"I noticed that there was a Kettou among the first years. Could be a girl."
"Maybe. I should probably talk more with Minori."
Kurumu managed a smile, thinking she should change the subject.
"I saw some unfamiliar faces when you guys challenged Kokoa. Did your soccer team get new players?"
Burumoto smirked as they meandered closer to the point of merger.
"We got eight new first years. That makes up for the eight seniors whom graduated."
"Are you still going to be a starter?"
The minotaur grinned broadly.
"Of course. The only new guy with any worthwhile experience is Yasunama's little brother. None of them have played on a team before. Some don't even know the rules."
"Are you going to be able to field a whole team without any first years?"
"That is the big question. Tamaishi isn't fast enough to do anything but goalkeeper and that spot is going to Mr. Kuromuro. Technically that isn't a problem with twelve of us filling eleven spots but not every guy has my stamina to play a whole game."
"How long is a game?"
"Two forty minute halves with a ten minute break. But I could last longer with a girl in my lap."
Kurumu's confusion only lasted a moment before she felt his perverse thoughts. She blushed as the two cheerleaders behind her giggled.
Burumoto gestured for some third years to go ahead. These two girls from Ashikantai were Ota Hatsuko and Katsukara Nagita. Ota was from the track team. The inugami had bronze eyes and her smoky black tresses rolled in shoulder length curls. Katsukara was on the tennis team. Her shaggy, sable locks were styled in a boyish manner. The okami had lively butterscotch eyes.
Kiba Akito, president of the badminton club, darted in behind the girls. He was Kiba's cousin and also from Ashikantai. He had short, scruffy dark locks and hazel eyes just like his cousin. The inugami still harbored a crush on Ota, having lost his virginity to her before coming to Yokai Academy.
"It would be nice if one or two of the first years are able to be used when the season starts."
They followed Kiba into the combined line. Yajima and his two friends from the rugby team merged into the line between Kurumu and the two cheerleaders. She could feel their appraisal of her.
"Doesn't your season start around midterms?"
"It will start earlier this year though regionals will be about the same time. The other coaches of our region got together over winter break and decided against having another season with two games each weekend. They want to go back to just one game a week. Our first game will be on May twenty eighth."
"That soon?!"
"Mhm. It's a home game against Sekisei High so I hope you will come."
Kurumu laughed, shaking her head in disbelief.
"Maybe. That's another thing that will be up to Nijiro."
"That's only a month away."
Burumoto chuckled, nodding at Yajima's comment.
"That's right. Much too soon for our first years to be ready but at least our first game is against an easy opponent and the second week is our bye. The big question is if they will be ready for our first big game against Shimote Tech on the eighteenth of June."
Kurumu smiled, thinking that was far into the future.
"Have you made friends with any of the new recruits?"
Burumoto snorted at her query as they eased closer to the cart holding the trays.
"The only teammate I have in this lunch group is Mr. Shitama."
"But you've been having practice almost every afternoon."
"True. Two of the new guys are from Minori's village and three more are in their lunch group. They're from out of prefecture and barely understand the rules of the game."
"Are they from a nearby prefecture?"
Burumoto shook his head at Yajima's query.
"They are from Tottori like Ms. Kurono. They said that their prefectural school burned down so they had to find a different high school."
Kurumu shivered, hoping these guys were not like Hebihana.
"Did they say why they came all the way here?"
"Worried that an old boyfriend might have come after you?"
Kurumu pouted at Yajima's grin.
"I had one boyfriend in junior high and he was my age."
Burumoto chuckled without any enthusiasm.
"Well they denied knowing Kurumu but I suppose they could have been admirers."
"Could you find out?"
"Of course. I could even help you with a new article for my team."
Ota clucked her tongue as she grabbed up a tray, handing it to Katsukara.
"She has to do a new article for the track team first."
Kurumu giggled, making a dismissive gesture as the girl grabbed a tray for herself.
"I'm not doing articles for the newspaper club. I quit back in November."
Ota frowned, drifting down the shelves laden with white boxes.
"I thought you were still a part time member."
"Why would you think that?"
Katsukara giggled, grabbing up a meal as Burumoto handed Kurumu a tray.
"That's what Morioka told us."
Kurumu sighed, taking the tray and sauntering after Kiba.
"I'm president of the broadcasting club and a member of the choir club. I've got my hands full."
"How many new girls did the track team pick up?"
Ota huffed at Kiba's question.
"None for a lowlife like you."
Kurumu snickered, selecting a box with tonkatsu and rice. She glanced at Burumoto, noting his tray had two boxes already.
"Doesn't the soccer team have meals made for them?"
Burumoto chuckled, grabbing a bread roll.
"That's not enough for a big guy like me."
Kurumu huffed, falling in step with him as they made their way to the end of the shelves. A silver cart laden with the prepared meals for athletic clubs stood next to the refrigerated cart with drinks.
"It's guys like you that make the selections scarce for the kids at the end of the line."
Burumoto stopped to grab a second tray for himself as Kurumu opened the refrigerated cart.
"Mama always said that if you want something, don't show up late."
Kurumu snorted, retrieving a chilled can of fruit punch.
"Somebody will always end up last, Ushio."
Burumoto shrugged as they drifted over to the end of the lines leading up to the four registers. He settled in the line behind Kiba while Kurumu was behind Ota in the next line over.
"Well that won't be me."
"Come on, Ota. Stop being a tease and tell us how many new girls from Morihochou you got."
Ota rolled her eyes at Yajima as the okami joined Katsukara's line. He flashed her a snaggletooth grin.
"We got eleven new girls with only two being from that village. One is Fumusuna's little sister."
Katsukara snickered at Yajima's obvious disappointment.
"Yea. I heard that Nishizawa and Araya joined track."
"I don't care about the pups from our village."
Muzai snickered at Yajima's remark, sauntering over to the fourth line with the portly guy behind him.
"Is Taiga still upset that he didn't get that albino's contact information?"
Yajima scowled at his friend.
"I'm still upset that Ota cares so little about her seniors."
"Even if I had her information, I wouldn't give it to you."
Kurumu giggled as they advanced closer to the people working the registers. It would be Ota's turn next.
"Did you have a crush on Ohira?"
"More like he saw her as easy prey."
Ota nodded at Katsukara's amused declaration as her friend stepped up to the register.
"Akito would definitely take advantage of her."
Kiba frowned as he got his things back from the worker.
"What did I do now?"
Katsukara giggled, moving aside so Yajima could have his turn while Ota and Burumoto did the same in their respective lines.
"You were shot down, Taiga. She's not interested."
"Because of that sister of hers. I should have written my intentions instead of letting her translate."
"Give it a rest. There are always more bitches to be had."
Yajima grumbled at Muzai's reassurance.
"Time's ticking. Nobody wants to end up like old man Fujita."
Kurumu smiled softly as Ota sauntered off. Realizing it was her turn, she stepped forward. She handed over her tray and lunch card, noting Burumoto was still having his massive meal totaled up.
"How much money is on your meal card?"
Burumoto grinned, surrendering his lunch card to the worker.
"Mama makes certain that I have enough."
"I swear that you are eating enough for three people."
Burumoto chuckled as he took back the spoils of his serving line perusal.
"I need lots of food to comfort me over the fact that I might never get to see your gorgeous body in a cheerleader outfit again."
Kurumu smirked, recovering her own lunch tray and card.
"There's always next year."
The door to the choir room was slid open with such force that everyone stopped singing. Nyuuwa darted into the room, wringing her hands as her eyes quickly located Kurumu.
"You have to come quick!"
Mrs. Tomarigi sighed dramatically from her place behind the music stand. The harpy was wearing a lime blouse with a tight pair of khakis.
"What is the reason for this, young lady?"
Others filtered through the doorway to join the agitated first year. Nonezumi looked even shorter when standing beside Tamura whom was also from Aranoiji. The second year guy had grayish locks and was a member of the film club, having attended the Kofu trip where they had first met Rubi. Kurumu had initially regarded him as a potential love interest for Dakuhime but had never pushed that pairing.
"It's Ms. Yotaku! She's going to make an adult film!"
Kurumu frowned as several choir girls snickered. Stepping down from the riser, Kurumu noted that Sangi and her cousin were lingering by the open door.
"Are you sure about that?"
Nonezumi nodded with his eyes hidden behind his bangs.
"I saw Ms. Yotaku leave with Mr. Tatsumaki at the end of classes today."
"Which doesn't necessarily mean anything."
Nonezumi turned on Sangi.
"I heard him quite clearly state he was going to show her his equipment."
The giggling of the choir persisted, causing Mrs. Tomarigi to sigh heavily.
"Perhaps we should call it a day."
Her suggestion encouraged Dakuhime and the others on that side of the riser to step off the riser and move to retrieve their schoolbags arranged along the wall.
"I will see you all tomorrow."
A hand gently touched her right shoulder, bringing Kurumu's attention to Kanari. They shared a smile.
"You'll make sure to chat with Ms. Makiba?"
"I'll try to find her at dinner tonight. If not, I'll be sure to tell her in first period tomorrow."
Zuri draped an arm over the shoulders of the blond, grinning broadly.
"Don't worry. You can count on us!"
"Ms. Kurono!"
Okimune giggled, stepping close on Kurumu's left.
"You better help that poor girl before she has an anxiety attack."
Kurumu grumbled, noting that Sangi and her cousin had joined the distressed Nyuuwa. She sashayed over to the group about Nyuuwa as Kanari and Zuri walked away to fetch their belongings.
"Is this really something serious?"
Sangi chuckled at the question directed upon her. Her topaz eyes betrayed genuine concern.
"While I doubt anything sexual was the purpose of his invitation, his equipment is in his room. Having a young, gullible girl in his room might tempt him into doing something."
"But Mr. Tatsumaki wouldn't harm her."
Sangi's cousin snickered at Tamura's assertion.
"Most guys don't consider having sex as harmful."
"Which is my concern. I haven't met Ms. Yotaku so I don't know if she could be easily persuaded into doing something that she would later regret."
"She seemed like an airhead to me."
Nyuuwa whimpered at the evaluation from Sangi's cousin.
"And she's obsessed with becoming popular. We have to rescue her."
Okimune giggled, placing a hand on Kurumu's left shoulder.
"Do we know where Mr. Tatsumaki lives?"
"I sent Oyanagi and Yamabato to the admissions office. Hopefully Mrs. Hagimoto will share his address."
Kurumu nodded at Sangi's mention of Yokai Academy's head secretary.
"I've never had issues getting an address. Where is Kuroishi?"
"Right here."
Kurumu flinched at the unexpected announcement. Standing by the door was the tiny girl. She laughed as Kanari and Zuri passed by the gnome, exiting the room.
"I meant your brother."
Sangi shrugged nonchalantly.
"That guy comes and goes as he pleases."
"He's probably filming them!"
Tamura frowned at Nyuuwa's accusation.
"I doubt Mr. Kuroishi would do that."
"Is he roommates with Mr. Tatsumaki?"
"My brother lives alone in suite 802."
Kurumu nodded at the prompt answer to her question.
"Then he probably has nothing to do with this."
"We can check there if they aren't in Mr. Tatsumaki's room."
Sangi chuckled at Nonezumi's declaration.
"I kind of agree with Ms. Kurono and Mr. Tamura."
"My brother might do something like that. He's always been weird."
"Even if your brother isn't involved, the situation needs to be addressed. It's unwise for a young man and woman to be alone in a room unsupervised."
Okimune grinned at the input from Mrs. Tomarigi whom had wandered over with Tadayo and Ikeda. The only other choir girl still in the room was Maruyuchi whom was Tadayo's roommate. That was why the big girl always lingered around after club concluded.
"I wholeheartedly agree. I almost fell victim to impulsive sex when I allowed my boyfriend over. I had only planned on treating him to a meal but his agenda quickly shifted to kissing and groping."
"I would have never expected that from Mr. Shiname."
Mrs. Tomarigi chuckled at Tadayo's surprise.
"You girls don't know much about men. Opportunity is the only thing keeping most men from sleeping with every woman they encounter."
"But harpies create opportunities for guys all of the time."
The choir teacher pouted at Tadayo.
"You can't be too direct. That conflicts with a man's nature to hunt for a mate. Men prefer to be the initiators as that creates the illusion of control."
"Well I don't know about that but I should talk to Mr. Tatsumaki. His behavior reflects poorly upon the film club which I'm in charge of."
Okimune giggled with a clap of her hands.
"No point standing around here. We have a naïve young lady to rescue."
Kurumu sighed, stalking over to the wall to grab her things. Okimune and the remaining choir seniors followed her example as the others drifted to the door.
"This sucks. I still have other things to do after school."
"Like what?"
Kurumu hauled the strap of her schoolbag up over her head, guiding it to the valley of her bosom. She had three new skirts stuffed in her bag, having skipped most of her last period with Kokoa. It would take the usual three weeks to get the custom fit blouse they had ordered.
"Visiting Tsukune in the hospital. I'm going to lose so much time with this detour to the suites. I probably won't be back before the softball team finishes their practice."
Okimune nodded, following Kurumu to the door. They headed out into the hallway where Nyuuwa and the film club members had already started walking along the balcony towards the front of the school.
"Is Mr. Amesuki accompanying you on this venture?"
"Of course he is. I'm not allowed to do anything on my own."
Okimune giggled as they passed by the higher numbered first year classrooms.
"Then I will run up to the conference room and tell him where you are so he doesn't worry."
"Thanks. What time is it anyways?"
"It was a little after five thirty when the young lady interrupted our session."
"It took you guys over a half hour to suddenly become concerned with this?"
Nyuuwa turned and halted with a pout, causing Nonezumi and Tamura to stop with her.
"I walked with Suki to her drama club meeting on the stage before visiting with the film club."
Kurumu caught up to the flustered girl in the middle of her explanation.
"I didn't realize there was a situation until Mr. Nonezumi told me about it."
Sangi smirked, having stopped with the rest of the group a few paces ahead.
"I'm thinking your first year has a crush on mine."
Nyuuwa blushed hotly, resuming her walk which prompted Kurumu and the others to do the same.
"I was only humoring his request since he skipped lunch to tell me where your club meets."
"Ms. Yotaku's situation could be dire. We should hurry."
Sangi snickered as they neared the end of this hall.
"We can hurry after we learn where he lives. I'd honestly feel better if Mr. Kuroishi is with them."
Sangi's cousin chuckled as they turned left into the intersecting hall. Coming towards them were Oyanagi and Yamabato Kamitsuku. Oyanagi had an afro of a sickly green hue while Yamabato had dark hair which was slicked back. Both guys were stocky with Oyanagi being taller and heavier.
"I doubt she wants to see her brother having sex."
"I'd be shocked if he was. He's never shown an interest in girls before."
"Did you find out where Mr. Tatsumaki lives?"
Kamitsuku grinned as Oyanagi turned and fell in step with Sangi whom was in the front of the group.
"Hey, Kurumu."
"He lives alone in suite 808."
Kurumu smiled back at Kamitsuku as he waited to walk alongside her.
"It's always something."
Kurumu suddenly registered Oyanagi's answer as they neared the door to the broadcasting room.
"Nijiro lives in 809."
"Visit him often?"
Okimune giggled as Kurumu pouted at Kamitsuku's grin.
"I've never been to his place."
"I'm sure that Nureto would have told me if she had."
They arrived in the main foyer with Okimune coming to a stop which resulted in Kurumu and Kamitsuku also stopping. Sangi continued on, leading Nyuuwa and the other film club members down the curved flight of stairs to the central landing. Mrs. Tomarigi passed by with Tadayo and Maruyuchi while Ikeda turned left, heading for the gap.
"I will let your boyfriend know where you are headed. I'll try to catch up with you."
Kurumu sounded an affirmative as Okimune followed after Ikeda whom was clearly going upstairs to hang out with her roommate, Amatsu. Kamitsuku snickered as they started down the stairs.
"You two really do look like sisters."
Kurumu giggled, reaching the central landing before starting down the main flight to the foyer below. The others were already fetching their shoes from the shelves while Mrs. Tomarigi had disappeared into the teachers' lounge.
"Yes. And our boyfriends live together."
"I heard about her and Mr. Shiname getting together. I hope that works out for them."
Kurumu grinned, arriving at the bottom of the stairs. She strode purposefully towards the shelves.
"I do too."
"Any news on Tsukune?"
"Yes. Kokoa predicts that he will be back in school on Friday but tomorrow is also possible."
Kamitsuku smirked when Kurumu stepped down from the genkan.
"I should get my shoes."
Kurumu laughed, pulling her loafers out of her cubby. She dropped them on the floor.
"You should before we leave you behind."
He hurried off as she swapped her slippers for her loafers. Stuffing the slippers into her cubby, Kurumu strolled to the end of the shelves. Sangi was waiting by the main entrance.
"Where is Uchiyama?"
Sangi shrugged, opening the door for her.
"That guy hasn't been to a club meeting this year."
"Not that we've had many of those."
Sangi chuckled at Kamitsuku's quick interjection as Kurumu exited the school. Nyuuwa and the other members of the film club were waiting outside while the two choir seniors must have already passed through the gate as they were nowhere to be seen.
"We've had more meetings than some clubs."
Once they were all outside, Oyanagi led the group towards the main school gate. Nyuuwa was behind him, flanked by Nonezumi and Tamura. Sangi's cousin walked slowly with the Kuroishi girl slightly ahead of Kurumu. To her right was Sangi while Kamitsuku remained on her left.
"I've mentioned the meetings to him but he acts like he has better things to do."
Kurumu nodded at Kamitsuku's remark, having seen things from Tsukune's perspective.
"He's in your homeroom but he doesn't eat with your club."
Kamitsuku chuckled as they passed through the school gate. Turning right, they started down the path which was flanked by the four boards.
"I'm assuming Tsukune told you that."
"Mhm. He has lunch with your film club."
"Securing us a table in the cafeteria was the smartest thing I've done for our club. I've seen Mr. Kuroishi nearly every day which rarely happened last year."
Kurumu grinned at Sangi's comments, recalling her own lunch period.
"I've noticed that your cousin has had lunch with Oyanagi this week."
"Yes and Mr. Nonezumi and Ms. Kuroishi have joined our table since they are now members."
"As for Uchiyama, he's eating with his friend over at the chess table."
Kurumu snorted at Kamitsuku's revelation.
"The chess club has a table?"
"They have three members in my homeroom, including our class rep."
"They also have Mr. Fare from Miyamoto's homeroom."
Kurumu grinned at Sangi's addition, recalling that guy from the Christmas party in the dining hall. Fare was from China and was courting a fourteen year old girl from Uchimori.
"So what have you been up to?"
Kamitsuku shrugged indifferently.
"Nothing much."
"Did you do anything over the break?"
"There isn't much to do in Umishiro."
Kurumu giggled, wondering if that village was like Ikinakawa.
"Do you know if Utsumi visited Ikinakawa over the break?"
"I don't keep track of her activities."
"Never rely on a guy for girls' gossip. You should ask Utsumi."
Kurumu sighed at Sangi's amusement.
"I would but Utsumi isn't in my lunch group. I'd have to go out of my way to talk to her."
"Isn't this Numasaki guy in your lunch group?"
"I'm not going to talk to that guy."
Kamitsuku chuckled at her indignant response to his question.
"How was your spring break?"
Kurumu frowned, knowing Tsukune had answered this over two weeks ago.
"Didn't Tsukune tell you?"
"He said things weren't very great in Aranami. If you need a shoulder to cry on-"
"I didn't break up with Nijiro."
Kamitsuku chuckled, dialing back his fantasies of having comfort sex with her.
"I'm just saying that my parents would be more receptive of you. My mother adores you."
Kurumu sighed heavily, knowing every guy she was remotely friends with would jump at the chance of being her boyfriend. She was not nearly as confident that they would stick with her forever.
"I'm just facing the same troubles every couple has with the school rules being enforced."
"I'm fairly sure that nobody would try to kill Utsumi if she visited Ikinakawa."
"That had nothing to do with Nijiro's parents."
"Well Numasaki's parents won't get a divorce over Utsumi."
Sangi clucked her tongue with a shake of her head.
"You really shouldn't be talking about these things."
"You don't seem surprised to hear about this."
"Well Ginei has a loose tongue that he doesn't keep inside his girlfriend."
Kurumu sighed, having explained things fully to Ginei when she had been in detention with Manami. Considering how often she had been around him since the start of the year, she had been surprised with his ignorance over her situation with Nijiro.
"Ms. Kurono!"
Kurumu glanced over her shoulder and smirked. Okimune was trotting towards them, holding an arm across her bosom while her other hand kept her schoolbag's strap taut against her left shoulder. Nijiro jogged alongside the buxom beauty, stealing glances at the jiggle of Okimune's breasts as they neared.
Sangi chuckled as they came to a stop. They were beyond the start of the perimeter wall, suggesting Nijiro had to finish up with something before giving pursuit. The brunette waved animatedly.
"You didn't need to chase us down."
"It does when it concerns Kurumu."
Kurumu pouted at his response with the pair arriving in moments.
"I haven't done anything wrong."
Nijiro regarded her with firmness in his periwinkle eyes as they resumed their walk. The others had paused for only a moment, confirming it was okay to continue.
"Considering how poorly you handled things with Ms. Hebihana, I would prefer you let me do this."
"Do you even know what is going on?"
Nijiro nodded at Sangi's query.
"Ms. Okimune has explained the situation thoroughly."
"I told him that a member of your club might be taking advantage of a member of her club."
"We don't need this huge of an audience. Tell the other club members to head home."
Sangi nodded at his command, gesturing at Kamitsuku.
"Go tell the others to wait in the dining hall. I'll join you after I settle this issue with Mr. Tatsumaki."
Kamitsuku sighed with a nod. He managed a smile at Kurumu.
"Maybe I'll see you later."
Kurumu chuckled at his reluctance.
"Maybe. It was nice talking with you again."
Nijiro frowned as the kappa trotted ahead to inform the others.
"Whom was that?"
"That's Mr. Yamabato. He's from my village."
"He didn't feel like an undine."
"He's only half."
Kurumu forced a smile as they reached the point where the other path merged with this one.
"He's Tsukune's friend, Nijiro. He wanted to know how Tsukune was doing."
"Just like Mr. Burumoto was Tsukune's friend."
Kurumu winced at the sharp tone in his voice. Lunch had been extremely tense and awkward today.
"They are friends. All three of them were in Ms. Nekonome's homeroom."
"I want to come with you!"
Kurumu smiled as they caught up with Nyuuwa. The rest of the film club were still walking up ahead.
"We don't need your presence, Ms. Nyuuwa."
Nyuuwa whimpered at his stern refusal.
"But I'm really worried about Ms. Yotaku."
"How can you say no to that?"
Nijiro glanced at Okimune's wry grin.
"Fine. Just leave the talking to me."
"I'm rather curious whom this Burumoto fellow is."
Kurumu smiled at Sangi, making a dismissive gesture.
"Just a guy on the soccer team."
"Whom you encouraged to intimidate me into allowing inappropriate behavior."
"I did no such thing."
Nijiro favored her a dubious look.
"I already said no to his desires to see you prancing about with the cheerleaders."
"Why would he request that?"
Okimune giggled at Sangi's inquiry.
"Obviously to see her body bouncing."
Kurumu huffed at the undine's amusement.
"Friday is his seventeenth birthday."
"The guy is twice my size and weight. She made me reiterate my refusal to his face."
"I just wanted him to hear it from you."
"Which should not have been necessary."
Kurumu sighed as they reached the bend in the trail. To her surprise, Okimune drifted off the main path and into the thinning woods. Nijiro and Sangi followed without hesitation.
"Where are you going?"
"There's a path from here to the pond."
Sharing a look with Nyuuwa, Kurumu shrugged before stepping off the trail. She had ventured into these woods before with this area being close to where she had first approached Tsukune.
"Nijiro. I'm not going to do anything for his birthday just like you wanted. I asked Kanari to bring this to his cousin's attention and they will hopefully take care of this."
"I'm not like Mr. Takada, Kurumu. I'm not going to put up with years of you flirting with other guys."
"Who is Takada?"
Nijiro huffed at Okimune's question.
"Her boyfriend from junior high. She charmed him in May of her eighth grade year and decided to charm every other guy in her junior high before the end of that school year. Considering her junior high had about a hundred students, Kurumu had over fifty admirers at her beck and call."
Kurumu wished she could deny that but the number was probably closer to seventy. It was not like she had stopped charming guys when she had started her final year of junior high. And while there had been less than a hundred students, the guys had always outnumbered the girls. There had only been eleven other girls in her grade of twenty nine students.
"I was still a virgin."
"Considering you blacked out at that party, how can you really tell if Mr. Kano stopped at licking? It's not like an intact hymen is proof of anything considering many monsters heal."
Kurumu sighed, noting how close they were to the pond. The others were now on a narrow trail leading through the woods away from the pond.
"I'm sorry, Nijiro. There is nothing I can do to change the past."
"I'm not fully convinced that people change. It's not like my mother suddenly became adulterous. She's been that way for decades just like my father has been a spineless coward for decades. It was my fault for not paying attention."
"What am I supposed to do?"
"You could start with staying out of trouble. I know this will sound bad but you need to get out of that contract with Ms. Shuzen and stop having anything to do with her family. Trouble follows them."
"Those are her friends."
Nijiro sighed at Okimune's protest.
"I'm aware of that but someone just tried to kill Mr. Aono. Once he is healthy, I strongly believe that she should have nothing more to do with him."
"The situation with Hebihana was not his fault."
Nijiro let out a heavier sigh.
"That one was yours. Hopefully Mr. Burumoto can confirm that those new members of his team don't have similar agendas against you."
"Yea. Though with them being guys, I can probably charm them into leaving me alone."
"Which is what you should have done with Mr. Burumoto in the first place."
Okimune clucked her tongue.
"Encouraging her to break school rules?"
"Kurumu breaks the rules whenever she feels like it. I just wish that she was smarter with how she does it, sparing her and myself many unnecessary conflicts with the school."
"Guess that means you don't want her charming Mr. Tatsumaki into proper behavior."
Nijiro huffed at Sangi's playful deduction.
"Of course not. While you two may think this is your duty as club leaders, it is better for a teacher or a member of the student council to address these situations."
"Well it certainly would be taken more seriously."
"You shouldn't be too hard on Kurumu."
Nijiro frowned at Okimune.
"I'm not trying to be but she keeps getting into mischief. She needs to understand that this is not good for her or us. She needs to follow your example."
Okimune giggled, glancing back at Kurumu.
"Well I wouldn't mind being a big sister for her but she's always off doing something else."
Kurumu gasped in disbelief.
"I'm not doing anything!"
Kurumu pouted when both older girls made dubious sounds. Doubting she would get any support from Nyuuwa, Kurumu kept quiet for the remaining journey through the rugged terrain.
It was not long before she saw familiar two story structures up ahead. Moments later, they entered a clearing. Nijiro overtook Okimune, leading the way to the back side of the first building on their left. The numbers on the door to the lower corner unit was 807.
Kurumu grinned as they drifted over to the single suite 808. She gestured up at the corner where the landing for suite 810 was mounted.
"Ginei lives up there in 810 with Korogaru."
Okimune giggled as they stopped beneath the landing for suite 811. Nijiro knocked firmly on the door.
"I'm aware of that."
"I knew he was living with Mr. Korogaru. He's joked about swapping roommates with Hajihachi."
"He wouldn't dare do that to Mr. Korogaru."
Sangi smirked at Okimune's admonishment.
"I'm sure that Roniushi wouldn't mind."
Kurumu snickered, knowing that silver haired okami from the gymnastics team would quickly accept such a proposal. Roniushi had an unhealthy interest in her cousin from the baseball team. Both were from Hajihachi's village.
The turn of a deadbolt drew attention to the door before it was tugged open. Standing on the other side was Tatsumaki. His hazel eyes swept over the group, frowning as his attention settled upon Nijiro.
"Why is Mr. Amesuki here?"
"Because I understand that you have a young lady on the premises."
Tatsumaki nodded, backing up a step. He motioned for them to enter.
"Yes. Come inside. I was about to show Ms. Yotaku how to use the software."
Nijiro entered first with Sangi and Okimune following on his heels. Kurumu waited for the others to part with their shoes before crossing the threshold. She could already tell that this dim room was being lit up by candles as she stepped out of her loafers.
Kurumu first took note of the camcorder in the right corner of the room. Kuroishi was hovered over the device though he was regarding their arrival from behind his glasses. His expression was neutral.
"Oh my."
"This is an unusual setup."
The comments from the older girls drew Kurumu's attention to the center of the room. There stood a heart shaped bed frame covered in cherry read cushions. Maroon, silk sheets peeked out from beneath a burgundy comforter drawn over a custom made mattress to fit the unusual bed shape. Maroon, heart shaped pillows were arranged along the rounded frame. Candles were placed around the frame, giving a sensual ambiance to the room.
"Do you actually sleep in this bed?"
Tatsumaki laughed at Nijiro's incredulous question.
"Of course. Though I usually don't have the flower petals."
Pink petals were scattered across the comforter. Someone had been recently lying upon this bed which looked like it could have been featured in one of those sleazy adult videos Kurumu's mother had owned.
"Where is Ms. Yotaku?"
The flush of a toilet drew their attention to the bathroom before the door was opened. The girl drifted out, smiling shyly upon seeing their presence.
"Sorry. It was dribbling out."
Nyuuwa gasped from behind Kurumu.
"They did it!"
Nijiro sighed heavily with a shake of his head.
"This is against the rules, Mr. Tatsumaki."
"And they even filmed it!"
Tatsumaki laughed nervously at Nyuuwa's accusation, holding his hands out defensively.
"Hold on. There aren't any rules against filming a first year. I had her full consent."
Yotaku giggled, drifting over to a desk in the far corner. This was the only other furnishing in the room. The black wood had a black laptop placed on it which was open with some program running. The girl tugged back the black, square stool and sat on it.
"Yea, it was fun! Want to watch it?"
"Oh how quickly innocence is lost."
Sangi snorted at Okimune's mild remark.
"Assuming this girl was innocent to begin with."
Tatsumaki chuckled, strolling around the bed.
"True innocence isn't worth much in this industry. All actors quickly understand that. I wanted to keep this film short and sweet so that I could demonstrate how the editing software works."
Yotaku giggled, moving her fingers on that pad that moved the cursor about the screen.
"Where it the file?"
"It's the one called deflowering."
"She's been deflowered!"
Sangi snickered, turning her attention upon Kuroishi.
"Did you film these two having sex?"
Yotaku turned sharply in the stool with her eyes wide while Tatsumaki scowled, shaking his head.
"What?! No!"
"Of course not! It's insulting that you would even insinuate such a thing!"
"I was just on the bed, pulling the petals off flowers as instructed!"
"And you did a lovely job. These people clearly have their minds in a gutter!"
Sangi ignored their protests, keeping her eyes on Kuroishi. It was hard to say if the guy was blushing in the rosy glow provided by the candles.
"Be honest, Kuroishi."
The guy lifted a hand to adjust his glasses.
"I wasn't aware that we could do that."
"You can't."
Tatsumaki nodded vehemently at Nijiro's curt statement.
"Which everybody knows is unacceptable! What kind of person do you think I am, Ms. Sangi?"
"The kind that brings a young girl into his bed and then films her."
Tatsumaki paused at Sangi's prompt response as Yotaku blushed brightly.
"You are deliberately making it sound worse than it was."
"Mr. Tatsumaki. Clearly you understand why you shouldn't have a girl alone in your room."
"I wasn't alone, Mr. Amesuki. Mr. Kuroishi is right there."
"That doesn't make things any better. These situations can easily lead to misunderstandings."
"Though you don't have much issue coming over to my room with Mr. Shiname."
Nijiro smirked at Okimune's lighthearted jab.
"I'm sure that you would be reasonably worried if one of us brought a camcorder."
"Fair point."
Sangi chuckled, gesturing at the flustered first year.
"As a girl, you should know better."
Yotaku smiled apologetically as she hopped off the stool.
"I honestly wasn't thinking about the situation. But I've always been lucky."
"Lucky or not, you need to run along with Ms. Nyuuwa. She's been worried sick about you."
Nyuuwa nodded emphatically.
"I thought you were going to follow in Ms. Kurono's footsteps."
Kurumu gagged as the older girls snickered.
"I've never done anything like this!"
"You've done worse."
Kurumu flinched at Nijiro's harsh tone, offering no rebuttal. She moved aside when Sangi accompanied Yotaku back to the entryway.
"If you want to visit Mr. Tatsumaki at his place in the future, bring a girl or two with you. Just to be safe."
"I treated her with the utmost respect. Ms. Yotaku can vouch for this."
Yotaku giggled, nodding as she slipped on her loafers.
"They were both kind. I'm sorry that I worried you all."
"What was dribbling out?"
Yotaku laughed as Nyuuwa retreated out of the suite.
"I really should have used the bathroom before leaving campus. But I was too excited that I didn't realize how close I was to a full blown accident. I'm lucky I didn't wet his bed."
"Thank goodness for that. I imagine things would have been even harder to explain."
"Please don't do this in the future, Mr. Tatsumaki."
The blond bowed deeply to Nijiro.
"I won't make this mistake again."
"Good. Because I don't want to report you. Have a good evening."
Yotaku let out a heavy sigh as she exited the suite with Sangi behind her.
"I don't know about you all but I'm famished. Let me pick out your meal, Ageha. I'll show you how awesome my luck is."
Kurumu chuckled nervously, taking the hint to get her loafers back on.
"I had a feeling there was nothing to worry about."
Sangi laughed, walking off with the first years the moment Kurumu stepped outside.
"Sure thing, Kurono. I'll see you on Saturday if not before."
Kurumu nodded, waving at the departing trio. Her attention shifted back to the door as Okimune and Nijiro stepped out.
"I am sorry that you had to come all this way."
Nijiro chuckled at Tatsumaki whom stood in the doorway.
"It's fine. You probably didn't realize it but I'm your neighbor in 809."
"Really? Do you ever hear anything coming from my apartment?"
"Should I be?"
Tatsumaki chuckled with a shrug.
"I'm just curious about the soundproofing of our rooms. I often like to listen to music and movies on the highest volume. I never got complaints from my neighbors but that might have been them being polite."
"I will let you know if I hear anything."
"My thanks. Have a good evening. We should edit that film-"
His sentence was cut off when he shut the door, turning the deadbolt. Kurumu glanced at Okimune, having a sudden uneasy feeling.
"Should we have watched that short film?"
Okimune giggled, offering a shrug.
"Do you want to go back in there and ask?"
Kurumu grimaced as Nijiro walked off.
"I'm going to put away my schoolbag. We should ditch yours too before we head to town."
Kurumu smiled softly, following him over to the door to his suite.
"You don't mind doing that tonight?"
"Of course, though you should hurry. I'm certain that Ms. Akashiya will be confused with our late arrival."
Kurumu smiled as he unlocked his door, tugging it open. He ducked inside for only a moment, returning without his schoolbag.
"You should have her leave hers here to save time."
Nijiro frowned at the suggestion.
"I don't know if that's a good idea."
"Nureto will be home so you don't have to worry about her molesting you."
Nijiro chuckled as Kurumu pouted. He gestured for Kurumu.
"I suppose that's true. Give it here."
Kurumu sauntered over, lifting her schoolbag strap over her head. She handed it to him and he quickly put it in his entryway. He closed the door before locking it up.
"I'll see you on Friday, little sister. Don't be making any movies with Mr. Tatsumaki."
Kurumu pouted as Okimune strolled off.
"I'm not like that at all."
