It wasn't too hard adjusting to a missing member of our group of eccentric friends. After all, I think he would want us to do this. I know I'm nowhere near close to being as strong or as brave as him, but I still need to be able to take the mantle. I just hope I know what I'm doing. I mean, besides my first encounter with that wrestling team guy, we haven't had any trouble for the past two weeks. I'm not really complaining, I'm glad that these things are happening less and less often. But If I'm being honest with myself, I kinda miss bringing the bad guys to justice. Heh, listen to me. I'm sounding more and more like a reporter every day.

As for the others...well, let's say that they all found ways around the adjustment in their own ways. Moka seemed to go back to her usual self, bright and bubbly as ever. Although, whenever we're in the club room, she always reserves an empty chair for Elijah, saying that he's still 'right here with us' in a weird way. I thought it was a wonderful gesture. Plus, it was funny when Gin almost sat in the reserved chair and Kurumu nearly chewed him out for it. Speaking of... Gin acts like nothing's really changed. It's understandable since he and Elijah never had a close bond but still, I think he misses him in his own way. At least he's not creeping on girls as much anymore. However, he says that he's stopped to keep up the well-receiving attention the Newspaper Club's finally getting. Yukari seemed to adjust fine to the absence of her magic friend, she often spent time coming up with ideas on what exactly was happening with Elijah. Ruby is quite interested as well, saying she never felt such magic coming from a single person before. She's never met any other magic person besides Yukari, Elijah, and Her Ladyship. She says she will be doing some thorough research to see if Elijah's condition has happened before.

Mizore was her usual self, though she was saddened, much to my discomfort, that she could only try to win my heart with more tenacity now that Elijah was gone. I need to sit her down and just tell her that I'm not interested. I care for her just like the others...but I can't love her. She's great, she knows how to read people, and she and her voice alone are enough to make anyone feel at ease. I don't know why she would see me as someone that she could love, and I'm flattered, but I feel terrible that I can return what she feels. Speaking of feelings...

Kurumu...

I know that she says that I'm her Destined One, and a part of me is really flattered. And...I wouldn't be lying if I said that I hadn't thought about her in a romantic way before. But every time I do, the ending is always the same. I imagine Kurumu and I walking down a quiet and peaceful dirt road, we say nothing but we enjoy each other's company. Then...out of nowhere, she laughs. But her laugh is not her own...it's hers. And when I look at Kurumu, her small stature turns to one that's just a little taller, and her hair grows longer and to a shade of light pink. Every time, it will always go back to her.

Besides, I'm starting to think there's something special growing between Kurumu and Elijah. I may be dense about my own feelings, but I can see as clear as day that they mean a lot to each other. Every day, Kurumu asked me if Elijah had contacted me or if I had received a letter in the mail. It hurts me a little every time I have to tell her no and I'm met with the same sad smile she gives me.

I really need to get my mind off such sad things. I think it's best if I just focus on the Newspaper for today. Speaking of...

Moka suggested that I would solely take over the sections of the newspaper that specifically Elijah and I would handle, especially the ones where we cover the possibilities and ways we can go about the idea of coexistence with Humans and Monsters. I was more than happy to do so. I already had a few wonderful ideas in mind.

"Alright, slackers," Gin brings our attention to the front of the clubroom. "Our next deadline is next week and we've only covered nothin' but the same bland stuff!" I can hear his annoyance, but I think that's only because we haven't had a confrontation with anyone in the past few weeks. I'm honestly a little surprised. I imagined that with the Security Committee now disbanded, the lowly punks of the Academy would crawl out of their hidey-hole and cause mischief with no comeuppance.

"Tsukune!"

Gin yelling at me caused me to jump. "What?"

"Pay attention, we need something to cover to keep bringing back our readers! And for the past week, we've been going over the same old thing."

"I already have a few ideas, though."

"...Oh." Gin sounded genuinely surprised at my statement but immediately switched back to a sarcastic tone. "Well then, smart guy, indulge us."

Didn't need that smartass remark, but fine. "Well, you guys know how Elijah and I always talk about coexistence between humans and monsters, right?" They nod. "Well, I've been thinking. Why don't we interview a few students and get their perspectives?"

"Wow, that's actually a nice idea, Tsukune!" Moka smiles.

"While that is an idea," Gin went on. "How are you sure that people even want to be interviewed? What would you even ask them?"

Easy answer. "Well, I remember how everyone was totally against the idea when Elijah was accused of being a human in my place, and some didn't even care if it was true or not. That just shows that some people really think about the idea of coexistence working after all!" I stand with enthusiasm. "I could ask so many people what they could do to benefit humans! What their dreams are!"

"Hahaha!" I turn to Yukair with a confused expression. "Sorry, you just sounded like, well, you know, for a second. Where did all this enthusiasm come from?"

"I concur," Mizore adds, her voice coming from behind the desk as she peeps out from under it.

"Well, I feel like I just needed to step up, you know?"

"What do you mean?" Moka asks.

"Well, now with...you know who gone," I gesture my head to an empty chair. "I feel like I should be responsible for what he does for the club...and protecting all of you."

"'Protecting'?" Yukari tilts her head. "Tsukune you don't have to do that, you know? We can take care of ourselves."

I nod in understanding. "I know. Still, I want to become stronger so I can at least be there if you need it. I don't want to always be the one being saved. As I promised, I will get stronger to protect you all..." I look at the Vampire, smiling brightly, and whisper. "Especially you." This causes her to blush and I do the same, Moka smiles as she looks away

"...Tsukune."

As much as I would like to start that song again, I'm afraid we have work to do. So I just offer another smile as I nod. That's when I realized something I should have done before Gin even started talking earlier. I look around the clubroom, confirming my miscount. "Guys, where's Kurumu?" They look around, their eyes widen as they come to this realization.

"She was in homeroom," Moka says. "Where could she be?

"Maybe Boobs-for-Brains decided to get a head start on the fashion section of our paper!" Yukari snickers.

"Come on, Yukari, really?"

"Sorry, force of habit."

"I'm right here," To our surprise and relief, Kurumu's voice came from the club room door. But when we see her, she's out of her usual school attire. Instead, she's wearing a pair of skinny jeans and...a black zip-up jacket with the word, 'Skillet' going down the left arm printed in white. "Sorry, I'm late. I hadn't done my damn laundry in a while and I didn't have anything else to wear.

I didn't have to take a genius to know exactly whose jacket that belonged to. Not wanting to bring the mood down, I carry on like normal and smile at my arriving friend. "Good to have you regardless, Kurumu."

"..." She smiles back. "Good to be here, Tsukune. Anyways!" Kurumu sounds more upbeat. "Let's get started!"

I'm honestly glad that Yukari decided to tag along with me as I did my interviews. We don't get to really get to hang out together except when it's with everyone else. However, she claims she just needed a replacement for a partner and that I was the next best option. But I know she means well. As for the interviews go... So far we've had many students give plenty of insights. Some were skeptical at first but they soon came around when we assured them that their names would remain anonymous. It was honestly inspiring to see just how many want to go out into the human world and just do their part.

"I've heard that some humans like to plant flowers for a living, so I could see myself doing that!"

"I like writing about creepy and scary things I happen to think about on a daily basis. I know some humans find a thrill or something when it comes to that, so I can be a writer, I think."

"I love catching fish with my bare hands, there's something about the thrill of the hunt that just makes me happy. Humans hunt for fish too, right? I can see myself helping them out."

"I want to know why humans think the way that they do... Is there any place where I can do that?"

While I'm happy to hear so many inspiring students...there were, unfortunately...others.

"Why the heck should I care about humans?"

"You're wasting my time, get lost."

"Back off before I eat you both."

Yes, I know not everyone is going to agree with our cause, but that doesn't mean it hurts any less. I may be living proof that humans and monsters can coexist together, but just one human won't be enough to change everyone's minds, let alone a human like me. But we can't give up here and now. I turn to Yukari who's been silent for the past few minutes as we waked around to find more people to interview.

"You okay, Yukari?"

She looks at me with a smile. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just thinking is all."

"What about?"

The Young Witch shrugs. "Just how many jerks we had to run into today. It sucks that even after how many papers we've put out, there are still a few rotten people in this school."

"Well, I guess it's only natural for a few dozen eggs to have a few rotten ones." I try my best to reassure her. "But we shouldn't let that discourage us."

"Oh, I won't. I was just letting out some steam, that's all!"

I laugh a little. "Yeah, I guess we both kinda need that."

"You of all people should, Tsukune. I've never even seen you angry before. Actually, I think I have, but I've never seen you genuinely furious over...well, anything!"

"Well, I try not to get too upset over anything. It's not really good for anything."

"That's a good thing!"

"But..." I scratch the back of my head. "lately I've noticed that...I've been getting more easily upset when it comes to...certain things, I guess."

"Meaning?" Yukari tilts her head in confusion.

"Well, you remember about that wrestling team guy I told you all about?"

She nods. "Oh, yeah! Didn't you say that you completely punched him out of nowhere? I thought that was unlike you so it took me completely by surprise. But what surprised me even more is that you managed to knock him down in his human form."

I shrug. "I mean, I've been keeping up with the morning workout Elijah taught me, and I guess I feel myself getting stronger, but then again, I might've just caught him off guard. Lucky me I suppose."

"...Why did you get so angry, anyway?"

I've been asking myself the same thing, Yukari. "...I don't really know. I was just so stressed with all the new information I heard that day. The three of us beating Kuyo...Elijah's injury...Our 'transformation'...Elijah's mom taking him home...and on top of that, I was so worried for Kurumu that I just didn't want to deal with any more obstacles."

"Yeah..." Yukari pats my back. "I'm sorry, a lot of information was just dumped on you that day. I can't imagine how confused or scared you might've been."

I shake my head. "I'm alright, thanks for your concern. But...yeah, it was scary at first, I won't lie."

"But enough about that!" Yukari shouted, standing in front of me with her eyes beaming with amazement. "You guys were so cool! You were like 'boom' when you punched Kuyo in the face! Elijah was all like 'swoosh' when he flew down and used that new magic!"

Yukari jumping around and just recalling how 'amazing' and 'cool' our fight supposedly was makes me chuckle a little. I really wish I could remember how exactly it went, especially how I fought alongside my friend. He's taught me everything that I know about fighting, I really hope I did him proud that day. Even thought he might nit remember it himself from how I heard it ended.

"I bet Moka thought you were super cool too! And I don't mean just the Inner one!"

Her last comment catches me off guard. "What are you-"

"Oh, don't try to BS me, Tsukune!" She points an accusing finger right in my face. "We all know how Moka and you are totally into each other! So how about you do us all a favor and just say something to her!"

"It's not that easy for me, alright!" I say more annoyed than I intended. I take a second to breathe and calm myself down. "Look, I only have a grasp on my feelings and I just...I don't know if I should just go for it...or should I make it special."

"Gosh, you're sounding a lot like Elijah..."

"Huh?" What does Elijah have to do with this?

"Oh!" Yukari shakes her hand and waves her hands in embarrassment. "Nothing! Nothing! It's not my place to say, anyway."

"...Alright then."

"Listen, Tsukune," She continues. "It doesn't matter if you tell Moka how you feel in a normal way or in some huge, exaggerated gesture. It's going to be special because it'll be coming from you ya dork! Not only that, you got me and Elijah to support you guys in your future relationship!"

"..."

If my heart wasn't pounding before, it's turned into a complete solo performance now. I guess it's only natural that the others could see how Moka and I look at each other. But why would Yukari support me? Last time I noticed, she developed a little crush on me and Moka. Which, again, is NOT okay. I did see her back off a lot ever since we met our first deadline so I was happy to see that. But the fact that she's willing to support us both... I know she's a kid, but I'm glad she's my friend.

"Thanks, Yu-"

"Excuse me?" I would've continued my thanks If we were not interrupted by someone approaching us. A student, one I've never seen before. He's just a little shorter than me with black hair and round-shaped glasses. "You guys are from the Newspaper Club, right?"

"Yep! That's us!" Yukari answers him with a thumbs up.

"Can we help you with something?"

He nods. "Well, I heard that you guys were interviewing people for your Newspaper. And I was hoping..." the boy looks down to the ground and fiddles with his schoolbag. "that you could maybe interview...me?"

Now there's a surprise. Even after we interviewed a lot of people today, no one but this guy volunteered to be interviewed. I smile at this fact, makes me wonder what he has to say. "We'd be happy to. What's your name?"

"Oh, uh..."

"Don't worry, we keep the names of people we interview anonymous." Yukari reassures.

"Thank you," He smiles. "My name is Rei Ryoshi."

"Nice to meet you," I extend my hand out for a handshake. Rei hesitates for a moment before he takes it and smiles.

"So, how do we get started?"

"Simple!" Yukari pulls out her notebook and pencil, ready to continue where we left off. "You answer our first question; How do you feel about the idea of peace between Humans and Monsters?"

Rei takes a second to think of an answer. We've asked this question over a dozen times today, and every time it's either met with a simple scoff or something casual. The most inspirational thing Yukari and I heard today was when that one girl said that she wanted peace so that her kind wouldn't be hunted. We didn't ask what she was so I couldn't imagine what she meant by that.

"Well," He starts. "I always believed that someday there will be an era where Monsters won't have to be afraid of humans anymore, all it takes is doing whatever is necessary to achieve that goal. One day, we monsters will rise above what we are now for a better future. Humans will no longer have a reason to fear us as well! I believe that era is closer than ever before."

Yukari raises an eyebrow as she looks up from her notebook. "And why's that?"

He shrugs. "I don't really know, just a feeling, I guess?"

"Okay then," I say. "Next question; What do you think is the biggest problem when it comes to the progression of Humans and Monsters coexisting?"

"Good question," Rei says, bringing his thumb and index finger to his chin. "Well, I think the main issue is fear. This issue goes both ways for humans and monsters, we are so afraid of each other that we can't even see the bigger picture. Ever since I was young, I even found myself terrified of the humans. They're a fascinating species, yet cruel when they can be at the same time. But overall, peace must be brought into this world if we are ever to thrive. If we can find a way to...let go of our fear and try to understand one another, only then can we find peace."

"..." Wow, this guy is starting to sound like Elijah, I bet he would get along with him quite well. I smile at Rei's answer. "That's really inspiring, Rei. We'll be sure to include your input in our article."

He nods with a smile. "Thank you, both of you. I know this interview wasn't very long, but I just...well," Rei, surprising the heck out of me, hugs me out of nowhere. This gesture is sweet and all, not to mention a nice change of pace. Not wanting to make it more awkward, I pat him on the back. "Thank you, your newspaper inspires me so much."

"It's...no trouble, man."

"..."

"..."

Okay, this is going on for a little too long. I gently push him away, not wanting to be too rude. "Well, thanks for your time."

"Oh! Right, sorry." He bows apologetically. "Again, thank you for your time. I'll be sure to read your next issue!" Rei takes his leave, walking away from us hurriedly, leaving me amused...as Yukari looks concerned. Seeing her expression, I lean over and whisper.

"What's up, Yukari?"

"...Did he seem a little off to you, in that last bit I mean?"

I tilt my head. "What do you mean?"

"He seems like a nice guy, don't get me wrong, but the way he got so close to you was just...weird."

"I'm sure it was just a friendly gesture," I try to reason.

"...Yeah, sure." Yukari seemingly agrees, but part of me says that she's still skeptical. I drop the subject for now, but I better keep my eye out in case anything else happens today.

Kurumu

"Hey, Kurumu?"

I look up from my desk, seeing Moka looking down at me with a smile. I force a smile back at her. Man, I hate that I have to do this, but it's what I have to do to keep our spirits high. "What is it, Moka?"

"Well, seeing that Yukari and Tsukune aren't back yet, and we've gotten most of our work done for the day, you wanna...I don't know, hang out?"

"...What?" You want to hang out with me? What is she getting at?

"Yeah! We never get to just have a day with the two of us, what do you say? I was thinking we could head to the market and see what's what." Moka is practically beaming with energy, even more so than usual. How can she even be like this when we're not even complete?

"...What about Mizore?" I ask.

"Oh, she'll be joining us as well! She needed some things in the market anyway so she's going to meet us there."

I nod. "I see. Well, I don't have anything else to do until my laundry is done, but that won't be for a while. So, sure. I'd love to go."

Moka beams, taking my hand and pulling me to my feet. "This is gonna be so fun!" Before she drags me any further, Moka turns to Gin who's had his feet kicked up on his desk. "We're going ou Gin, be sure to inform Tsukune and Yukari when they get back, okay?"

He scoffs. "Yeah, I'll be sure to do that."

I bet he's calling us slackers for basically ditching the club even though we're basically done for the day even though he's done absolutely nothing!

"Come on, Kurumu, let's go!" Moka continues dragging me out of the club room.

"Okay, okay! I'm coming! You don't have to drag me!" Man, even in this form she's still strong!

"Oh, sorry!" Seeing that her firm grip is actually hurting me, she lets me go once we're halfway down the hall. "I'm just so excited!"

"I can see that," I say with an eye-roll. "So, what did you have in mind besides 'seeing what's what'?"

"Well," Moka brings a finger to her chin. "first, we can see if there's any new clothes available, it's been a while since we saw last time, after all! You said you were doing laundry today so that's perfect! I'm sure you're already tired of that old-"

"No!" I say more harshly than I intended, making Moka jump back a little in shock. "I mean, I'm fine Moka, I...love this jacket. It's warm, and soft..." And it makes me feel safe...

"Kurumu? Are you...okay?" Moka steps closer to me, possibly noticing the tear in my eye. I hastily wipe my eyes.

"I'm fine, Moka. I promise. Can we get going? No need to keep Mizore waiting after all!"

"...Yeah, let's go."

A few moments later...

It was a quiet, short ride to the market. Well, it was more quiet on my side as Moka talked my ear off about all the stores that we could go to. I was a little happy that Moka invited me out, that means that we've truly been getting along more and more lately. I honestly don't even see her as my rival anymore, both in popularity or...about Tsukune.

I still need to figure out what's going on with me. I've been asking myself the same question ever since Tsukune told us about him being a human; Is he really my Destined One? There's no doubt that I truly care about him, so much so that I was willing to be expelled from Yokai Academy for keeping his true identity a secret. But...do I really love him? This has been driving me crazy ever since. Not only that but what about my mom? If she finds out that Tsukune isn't my Destined One...she can be a real pain when it comes to that subject.

Ahh! I need to stop thinking about all of this and just deal with it when it comes! Today's supposed to be A stress-free one!

"Kurumu! Come on!"

Speaking of which... I turn to Moka who's already met up with Mizore, she waves at me while Mizore nods. "I'm coming, already!" I catch up with them both, hopefully prepared for what may come. It's shopping, after all. Who knows what'll come next?

It turns out that I was a pretty active shopper when we all first came out here to just get away from all the chaos and ruckus that comes with attending Yokai Academy. I think I left the market that day with at least three bags filled with various clothes, snacks, and other little trinkets I found. I know what the others were thinking; 'Kurumu, you shouldn't be spending so much!' Well, guess what? It's my money and I'll spend it how I please! Besides, it's not like I wasted it on clothes I'm never gonna wear or food I'll never eat. Which reminds me, I wonder If I should grab something for... Yeah, I think a welcome-back gift would be okay, right?

"So, where do you guys wanna go first?" Moka asks us.

"I don't care as long as it distracts me," Mizore blatantly says.

"How about we just window shop until we see something we like?" I suggest. "We've been here before, so it shouldn't take us too long to find somewhere to browse."

Moka nods happily at me. "Sounds good to me! Mizore?" She simply shrugs at Moka.

We spend the next portion of our day out just walking around and seeing what store suits our needs for the day. I already have plenty of food so I don't need to browse those kinds of stores, I don't need to add more to my laundry with a bunch of new clothes, and I think I have more than enough plushies in my dorm room. So...where can we go that can suit those requirements? Hmm... Moka and Mizore have their own little discussion while I just think to myself. Then, out of the corner of my eye, something catches my attention. A small, round-shaped box with speakers attached to the front. I think I remember Elijah calling one of these a 'boombox' whenever he talks about his music. He always loves using his headphones whenever he wants to jam out, but he also loves blasting it over speakers. My ears are well-known victims of one of his speakers...ouch. But it was still fun overall.

Elijah reaches for his backpack, pulling out a small square plastic case. "Here, I want you to have this."

"..." I take it, reading the cover. "...What's this?"

"It's one of my old CDs, my...favorite one. My mom said she found it as she was clearing my old room of junk and sent it to me with my recent letter from her. I guess she doesn't fully realize the concept of my phone's playlist, heh..." Elijah scratches the back of his head, is he...embarrassed? "I wanted to give you this but you ran off and I didn't really know when I could but now you're back so I think now's a good time... Anyways...I want you to have it. So whenever you're feeling down, or even when you need a little extra motivation, you can listen to it."

I still have his 'Awake' CD back in my room, but I just haven't found the time to grab something to play it whenever I want. Welp, no time like the present! I leave the others for a moment, heading inside the store. I walk right up to the receptionist, smiling brightly. "Hi! I was wondering if you guys have plenty of boomboxes in stock?"

She smiles back at me. "Of course! They're just in the back corner of the store. Go ahead and grab one that catches your eye and I'll be ready to ring you up!"

I nod and head to the back of the store, noticing the vast amount of electronic devices they have in stock. I bet Elijah would've liked this place, he's always so fascinated with human technology. ...I really can't stop thinking about him, can't I? I shake off my upcoming sadness and browse which boombox I should get. I know I'll need one that will be able to play CDs, but what I'm more worried about is color. They have black, green, red, even aquamarine. But which will look best in my room? Wait...what about blue? It's...his favorite color. No contest! That's the one.

Whistle! Whistle!

I hear the sound of someone whistling...a catcall no less. Ugh! I don't want to deal with this today! Okay, Kurumu, calm down. No need to make a scene over something small. But if he steps out of line, he's getting smacked in the mouth. When I have my desired boombox in my hand, I turn to finally face the guy who thinks a catcall is a good attempt at flattery. He's noticeably tall, dark grey medium-length hair, pointy ears, and dark red eyes. If I didn't know any better, I'd assume he's a vampire like Moka. but this guy does not give off the same aura of a vampire.

"What do you want?" I ask with an unimpressed tone.

The tall guy smiled down at me, I'm already not liking how he's towering over me. "I was just admiring your beauty, is all. A girl like you is quite ravishing."

I roll my eyes. "Wow, did you come up with that word all on your own? Now, if you'll excuse me, you're blocking my way." I try to get around me, but this guy won't let up.

"Woah there," He raises his hands in surrender. "I was just complimenting a beautiful girl and this is how I'm thanked? Come on, don't say I'm not your ty-"

I shut him up by shoving him out of my way, nearly causing him to knock over a few boxes. "I said, 'if you'll excuse me'!" I purchase my boombox and leave the store before any more damage can be done. Luckily, Mizore and Moka have been waiting for me outside.

"Hey, Kurumu..." Moka squints at me. "Are you alright? You look angry."

"More so than usual, she means," Mizore added.

"I'm fine, just some guy hitting on me while I was getting this." I hold out my bag and show them what I bought.

"Oh, You didn't hurt him, right? Too bad I mean?"

"Don't worry," I reassured. "I just shoved him away to get out of there, he won't come back. Even if he does, he has to deal with three crazy bitches, doesn't he?" I smirk at the end of my sentence.

"Damn right, nothing puts a smile on my face more than putting a creep in his place."

I smile at Mizore. "See? Even a stalker knows their limits!"

Looks like my comment made her upset. "What did you just-"

"Anyways!" Moka interrupts. "Let's just continue with our day, how does that sound? We can go to a few more places and then back to the Academy."

I smile, feeling happier than I was this morning...or in a while for that matter. Elijah, I really hope you're alright...wherever you are. I hope it's okay that I'm having fun without you. "Yeah! Let's go!"

Yukari

Tsukune and I have done more than enough interviews for the Newspaper, I'm already feeling exhausted! When we got back to the clubroom, everyone was gone except for Gin. He said that they 'flaked out' on the club. My best guess is that since they probably got most of the work done, they just went out to have fun. I kinda feel left out, but that's okay. As long as they're happy. Since we had a little more free time than usual and the others were gone, Tsukune decided to get some extra exercise and self-training in today. So he took off, leaving me alone to find something to do.

I found myself just walking back to the girl's dorms, seeing that I'd rather just relax back in my room rather than just wander around the school. Sometimes I forget how peaceful this place can be. Sure, it has an eerie atmosphere and it looks like something straight out of one of those human movies my parents showed me as a kid, but it's nature after all.

"Yukari!"

"Huh?" I turned around to the sound of someone calling my name. My eyes widen when I see who it is. "Ruby!" I greet her with a tight hug and she pats me on the head. "Where have you been?"

"It's a long story..." She smiles and pulls away. "The Headmaster has been keeping me super busy now with the Security Committee out of the picture. We did a good thing, don't get me wrong and the Headmaster is grateful, but bringing down the Security Committee is bringing out all the lowly troublesome students out of their holes."

"What do you mean?"

"Remember that guy Tsukune had to take down when you all returned two weeks ago?" I nod. "According to the headmaster, he was a troublemaker when he first attended Yokai Academy as a freshman, starting fights and getting into trouble left and right. That all stopped when the Security Committee was first formed. Now that they're gone, he went straight back to his old ways."

"Sounds like the Newspaper Club is gonna have more trouble than before."

Ruby nods. "It seems that way."

"But why doesn't the headmaster do something about it?" I ask.

"I asked the same thing. He tells me that everything is happening according to plan, whatever that may mean. I'll be sure to keep my eye open and relay any new information to you guys."

I smile. "Thanks, Ruby, but don't get yourself into too much trouble."

She shakes her head. "I won't, don't worry." It's strange, but the way she's going about this...it reminds me of Elijah in a way. Ruby even has that same look of determination in her eyes. I chuckle at my own thoughts. "What's so funny?"

Oops. Looks like I got caught. "Nothing, you just remind me of Elijah with the way you sounded."

Ruby's cheeks glow a light pink. "H-Huh?! I did? I...well, he... I was just..." The way she's struggling to talk makes me laugh out loud. I bellow over as my sides start hurting. "Stop laughing at me!"

"Okay...okay...ha...ha..." I stop my exaggerated laughter, calming down. I've never seen Ruby so embarrassed before.

"...Yukari?" Ruby looks down at me with her face almost completely red. "Do you think...Elijah finds me pretty?"

"Huh?" I tilt my head. "Where's this coming from?"

"Oh!" She shakes her head. "N-Nothing! Just a silly question...hehe..."

"O...kay?" I don't really know where she's going with this, but if she's feeling insecure, I better do my best to make her feel better. I don't see what ELijha has to do with any of this, though. "You don't have to worry about the way you look, Ruby. You're great just the way you are!"

"..." Ruby tries her best to smile, but I know that kind of smile holds back a lot of doubt. "Thank-"

"Excuse me?"

The both of us are startled by the sudden voice coming from... Wait a minute, isn't that the guy Tsukune and I interviewed earlier? What is he doing here? Maybe I shouldn't be snarky with him. I was about to speak up until Ruby stepped in front of me, as if she was...protecting me? "Who are you?" She asked in a demanding voice.

This causes the guy to raise his hands. "I mean no harm, I just wanted to talk to Yukari."

Ruby turns her head back at me. "You know this...boy?"

I nod. "Tsukune and I interviewed him for the Newspaper Club earlier." Ruby's attention goes back to Rei. She looks at him with her eyes squinting, taking in every detail that she possibly can.

"I'll say again, who are you? And what do you want?"

"Like I said, I wanted to talk with Yukari," He looks at me, smiling...and for some reason, I don't like it. "I hate to be a bother, but I realized that I didn't get the chance to be interviewed by all of you guys back there."

"What are you talking about? Tsukune and I interview you."

"I know, but I really wanted to be interviewed by Elijah. He was the one who started those articles, after all. I remember first reading them back when-"

"That's not true," Ruby corrects him with a stern voice. "It was also Tsukune who started those articles. If you read them as you claimed, you would've seen their names printed on the bottom, along with those they interviewed and those who added their input."

"Easy, lady. I just wanted to get to know the guy. I've been searching all over campus for him and he's not anywhere. Where is he, Yukari?"

"It doesn't matter," Ruby answers before I can.

"Well, I don't think I was asking you."

"And I'm telling you to go back to where you came from, whatever you are!"

"Ruby!" I whisper. "Why are you getting so defensive?"

She ignores me and continues to scowl at Rei. "I don't know what you want with Elijah, but you won't find him here!"

"...I won't, will I?"

I don't like the way he said that. "Rei? Why do you want to talk to Elijah?" I speak calmly so as to not provoke him more.

"...It matters not," His voice...it's changed. What the hell is going on? Rei's face is becoming disfigured, changing...morphing into something else. His short stature soon gains a few feet, now he towers over Ruby and I standing at at least seven feet tall. This must be some sort of transmogrification magic because I know no other monster that can just change their appearance like this. Rei's eyes now glow a lime green and his hands are now...black. No...he can't be...such raw, powerful magic... "The Blessed Child will be in my hands. Now...where is he?"

"Yukari, stay behind me," Ruby says calmly, but I hear her voice shake.

"...You're a-"

"Yes," He interrupts. Rei's true form is now a middle-aged-looking man with a dark cloak, lime green eyes, and black hands that have been tainted with dark magic. "I am a Warlock, and you filthy witches will bring me to the Blessed Child. Unless you'd rather die a slow and painful death, that is. It's been a while since my last witch hunt."

Blessed Child? What is he talking about?

"You will get nothing from us, you pompous man!" Ruby shouts, pointing her wand at him. "We know nothing about this 'Blessed Child', even if we did, we'd never tell you!"

"LIES!" He boomed. "My sources tell me that the disturbance came from this school and I can even sense a faint trace of his magic! Now, I demand that you tell me where he is or I will kill you both and gain your power. I can tell that you are both strong witches, perhaps I can indulge myself once you tell me what I want to-"

"NO!" I shout pointing my wand, unleashing a hailstorm of tarot cards. "I don't care who you are or what you want, you will not hurt anyone here!"

"Foolish girl!" The Warlock walks off my attack like It's nothing. Before Ruby and I could do anything, the man raised his hands and muttered, "Tormentum!"

"AAAHHH!"

"AAAHHH!"

It hurts! What...is this?! The pain... It feels like knives are piercing every inch of my skin! My head's surely going to burst from all this pain! Where...even am I? How long have we even been here? What's going on? All I could do...was scream more loudly than I ever had in my life while I could hear the sound of Ruby's agonizing cries...along with the faint sound of a sickening laugh at our expense.

"GET AWAY FROM THEM!"

The pain slowly resides, leaving me on the ground to recover. When I lean up in a sitting position, that's when I see...Tsukune. He's tackled the Warlock to the ground, catching him off-guard...but I know that won't be enough, even for a human. I try to stand, but it still hurts too much to even crawl. I look over to Ruby, she's still immobilized like I am. This is bad, I need to help my friend before he gets himself hurt. I try to speak, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is a pained croak.

Tsukune continued to pound the Warlock, hitting his abdomen, face, it didn't matter to him. He was blinded with rage and wanted to protect us. This unfortunately left him open and off his guard. Tsukune is knocked back with a powerful blast of dark magic, causing him to shout out in pain as he's knocked back a few feet.

"You dare challenge me?!" The Warlock shouts. "You are nothing more than an insignificant pest for me to step on whenever I please. You think you stand a chance against the likes of me?!"

"Leave him alo-" I can't even finish my sentence before the Warlock has me by the throat and starts crushing my windpipe. I see Ruby rush to help me but she's also caught in the same position as I am.

"Fascinating, you two are willing to throw your lives away for this...human. Pathetic. Perhaps I should save you the trouble and end your wretched lives here and now." He squeezes our throats harder and my vision grows more and more blurry. This can't be...how I die... Moka...Kurumu...Mizore...Tsukune...someone, help us...

"Drop them, you son of a bitch!"

From my temporarily impaired vision, I can barely see Ruby drop to the ground along with myself. I get to my knees, finally seeing our savior towering over the Walrock with her claws impaled into the man's chest. Kurumu... Wait, if she's here, then that must mean-

BOOM!

Right on queue, an overwhelming sense of monster energy comes from...Tsukune? He stands tall with his eyes glowing bright red. Wait, of course! Moka must've given him some of her blood to heal his injuries and give him a fighting chance. She and Mizore stand behind Tsukune as he just stands there, eyeing down his current enemy who's already pinned down by Kurumu. The Succubus isn't able to hold her for long as she is also knocked back and crashed into a nearby tree.

"Worthless ants! Who do you think you...are?" Rei finally notices Tsukune's change in appearance, completely catching him off guard. "What? No...this is impossible! You cannot be a Vampire! I know what you really are! You're just a pathetic-"

Tsukune moves faster than any of us can see, cutting the Warlock's sentence off as he slams his face into the ground. This makes a noticeable crater into the dirt road, leaving the Warlock completely immobilized. He did it, Tsukune won. He looks back to us, his eyes slowly going back to his normal brown. Tsukune almost falls over, but is thankfully caught by Moka and Mizore.

"H-Huh? what just...oh." He sees the unconscious man in the ground. "Is he..."

"No," Ruby answers in a pained groan. "I must bring him to the headmaster, he'll know what to do with him."

"Agreed," Mizore said. "Bit what did he want? Why is a grown-ass man trying to kill us?"

I have that exact same question. Why is he here? And who is the 'Blessed Child'? Did he mean...Elijah? But since when was he known as that? Could this...have something to do with his newfound power? There are so many questions and we can't possibly know all the answers.

Sob...Sob...

"Kurumu!" Tsukune called out after hearing her crying. We all gather around her as she's kneeling on the ground and holding her left arm. "Are you okay? You're not hurt too bad, are you? We can get you to the-"

"No," She cuts Tsukune off. "...It...it ripped."

"What ripped?" Moka asked.

Kurumu turns her body toward us, showing her left arm. There's a noticeable gash in her jacket. "What's the big deal?" Mizore asked. "It's just a-"

"This isn't just some random jacket! He gave it to me and now I ruined it!" Kurumu lowers her head, letting out a few more soft sobs. "He'll...never forgive me."

"It's alright, Kurumu." Ruby steps up and kneels down to her. "I can patch it up for you."

This revalation makes Kurumu jolt her eyes back up to Ruby. "C-Can you?!" She begged.

Ruby nods. "Her Ladyship...no, my parents taught me how to sew when I was a kid. I can have the jacket repaired for you."

"...And you'll take extra care of it?"

"I promise," Ruby reassured.

"..." Kurumu slowly, more importantly, carefully, takes off the jacket. This leaves her in nothing but her skinny jeans and a black tank top. Damn her and her gargantuan boobs... She hands Ruby the piece of clothing. "I trust you, thank you." Ruby nods once more and leaves to take care of the unconscious Warlock.

"So..." Tsukune started. "what exactly happened here?"

Tsukune

"So...you think he was looking for Elijah?" I ask.

Yukari nods, crossing her arms. "It's a hunch, but he was so adamant when he realized that he wasn't here. I don't know why he's referring him as the 'Blessed Child' or whatever, but at least he's being dealt with now."

"Agreed," Moka voiced. "Are you sure you're okay, Yukari?"

The Young Witch nods. "I'm fine," She says, but I can still see her shaking in her left hand.

"What did he do to you guys? I could hear your screams all the way from the boy's dorms, it was...horrifying."

"...It was...a torture curse."

"'Torture Curse'?" Kurumu asked.

Yukari nods. "It's mainly used by those who studied dark magic, never used by wizards, mages, sorcerers, or even witches. It's considered a crime for my people."

"That's horrible!" Kurumu shouts before she hugs Yukari. "To think that they do that to you guys, especially a little kid!"

"I'm not just a kid!" Yukari retorts, shoving Kurumu away. "I'm fine, see? It was only for a little bit so It won't have any long-lasting effects, I promise."

"I'm no expert," Mizore speaks up. "but you're not fine, just take it easy for us. No need for a friend to die thanks to some old jerk."

Yukari is slightly shocked by Mizore's concern. Sure, it wasn't expressed as a normal person would've, but it's not often we see Mizore express anything other than cold remarks. Pun intended. I rest a hand on her shoulder, supporting her. "Mizore's right. It's okay now, you're safe with us. I'm just sorry that I wasn't here earlier to help."

"What are you talking about?!" Kurumu demands, stepping closer to me. "You handled it like a badass! It didn't matter when you got here, you handled it and saved Yukari and Ruby."

"Yeah, well," I scratch the back of my head. "Still, it wasn't entirely me, after all," I say as I look over to Moka. When she meets my gaze, her face glows pink that almost matches her hair. I smile at her, making not only her face grow more pink but I feel mine as well. "Thanks, Moka."

"You're welcome, Tsukune."

"If I may interrupt," Oh, God, what now?!

I turn around to that voice, seeing... "Saizou?" I get in a stance, ready to defend everyone else. this guy has given us a real problem on our first day and I think I speak for all of us when I say that we're not in the mood to deal with this! "What do you want? We really don't have time to-"

"Easy there, Aono," He interrupted as he puts a hand out in front of me. "I didn't come here to start anything, on my life."

"Then why are you here?" Kurumu demands, sounding as annoyed as I am. Good to see that I'm not alone. "We've had enough of jackasses today and we really don't want to kick someone else's ass!"

Saizou raises his hands in surrender. "Look, I'm not here to cause trouble, I just wanted to talk. That's all." he takes a deep breath. "Look, I know I didn't treat you guys so well on our first day, but I'm...trying to change that, okay? And I think with what I have to say is a good start."

"You could start by apologizing to her!" I point to Moka.

"...Right. I'm...really sorry, Moka. I truly am." So he says, but seeing Moka look away like that says that she doesn't entirely believe him. "Okay...about what I wanted to say. You guys should be on your guard from here on out."

"What's that supposed to mean? Is that a threat?!"

"N-No! A warning!" He corrected Kurumu.

"What are you talking about?" I ask.

Saizou sighs. "Look, it's no secret that you, Moka, and that other guy...took down Kuyo. Hell, you even surprised me, Aono. I didn't think a pipsqueak like you had it in you."

"Gee, thanks." I rolled my eyes.

"Sorry, I'm...not good at this. Anyway, back to what I'm trying to say. You guys taking down Kuyo attracted a lot of attention, especially...the Monstrels."

"'Monstrels?'" I say. "Who are they?"

"They're basically what most people call 'half-breeds'," Yukari explained. "They're also the most common of monsters. Their abilities vary depending on what breeds they have in their blood, but most can morph their bodies and even turn their limbs into weapons."

Saizou looks a little aggravated by Yukari's description, especially after using the words 'half-breed'. "Yeah, that's them alright. And after what happened to Kuyo, they want you guys. More specifically, Tsukune and what's his face."

"Elijah." Kurumu corrects him with her voice dripping with venom.

"Right."

"Why us? We never did anything to them."

"Doesn't matter. Monstrels are very...prideful monsters, they hate losing above everything else. They find it completely unacceptable and are willing to kill those they deem worthless."

"That's horrible!" Yukari shouted.

Saizou nods. "Yeah..."

"How would you know all this anyway? And why warn us?" Mizore questioned.

"...Because I'm one myself."

What? I thought he was an orc.

"Then what makes you different? How do we know you're really trying to warn us?" Kurumu demanded.

"...Because I'm tired of being compared to you purebreds. What difference does it make if someone is stronger than the other? At the end of the day, we're all living on the same earth, right? So why bother fighting over who is the strongest?"

"You guys...fight over that?" I say taken aback.

He nods. "You have no idea. Unfortunatley, not every monstrel is going to see things the way most people do these days thanks to your Newspaper. They want to take you and Elijah on so that they can prove that they're the strongest of Yokai Academy and finally have respect." Saizou scoffed when he finished that sentence. "Wow, saying that out loud, we really do sound like a joke."

"...I believe you." I say.

Everyone seems astonished by my statement. "What?" Saizou responded.

"Thank you for the warning, Saizou. But you don't have to worry about us, we'll have each other's back if these guys try to mess with us. With Elijah gone they're gonna most likely target me most of all. So until he gets back, I'm going to step up even more to protect everyone here."

"...Well then, good luck to ya, I guess." Saizou nods and takes his leave.

I may not entirely know what I'm doing, but I know I can't just run away from this. I'm going to protect my friends from these so-called 'Monstrels' no matter what it takes. I will get stronger.

?

"Now then," A calm and low voice said as he raised his hand to another man's head, tilting it up so he could look him directly in the eye. "I'm going to ask you nicely one more time; Why do you want the Blessed Child?"

The man coughed blood into his interrogator's face...but his smile did not go away. "Like I told you before, because it's what my masters require."

"That doesn't answer my question in the slightest," The white-cloaked man laces his palm over the man's face, this makes the bloodied prisoner squeal out in pain once more.

"Headmaster," A girl's voice calls out. "Don't you think he's had enough?"

"Perhaps," he says before letting go of his captive. "Then again, I know his type. No matter what pain we make him endure, he'll never talk. Perhaps it's best if we dispose of him now."

"You mean...kill him?"

The Headmaster nods. "Seeing that he's a grown man, a warlock no less, and he's come into this Academy, threatened my students, and even used an unacceptable spell on you and young Yukari. I see that it's a fitting end for a no-good man like himself."

"...Are you sure this is wise, sir?"

He nods. "This is not the last we'll see of people like him." The Headmaster turns back to the Warlock. "More will come here and look for the Blessed Child, but they will never find him here...for now."

"If I may, Headmaster. Won't you tell me more about this 'Blessed Child'? It's Elijah, isn't it? That's who he was looking for in the first place so please, tell me more."

The headmaster looked back at the girl, smiling as his eyes glowed white. "All in due time, Ruby. All in due time."