Click the links for pictures of the characters so far. Even a picture of Sono Gakuen itself!

Miyuki 

Yuu (Haruna looks more feminine) 

Aiko 

Alec 

Aru 

Jukusei 

Rinna 

Shourai 

Sono Gakuen 

Mika



 

Volume 1, Chapter 6

Aiko stood up slowly, opening her umbrella. "So. . .Where are your parents?" she asked. Miyuki snapped her head to look at Aiko. "Why?" she said slowly. "Well, you haven't been calling them, and I heard Yuu and Yuki talking about you while they went to the bath. About you having no parents. So where are they?" Aiko pressed. "Dead." Miyuki answered stiffly. She avoided Aiko's eyes. "Oh? How'd they die?" Aiko asked, something smug in her voice. Miyuki gritted her teeth. "Car accident." she said. Why was she bothering? "You were distracting them, right?" Aiko said. Miyuki stopped cold. She was talking to them. . .on the phone. . ."What? Don't be ridiculous." she said snidely. Aiko frowned. "I told Jukusei I was coming. That's how he knew. But I was forced, really. To be a sacrificed double for you. So I got the lowdown on you. Every detail." she said. Miyuki turned to stare at her. Miyuki's foot brushed a metal rod that was discarded, having broken off from the large metal gate. "They were coming back, right? They were going to court. For a divorce. Then, while driving, they fell back in love. They settled their problems. They called you, didn't they? To tell you the Big D was off. And you were so happy. . ." Aiko trailed off. Miyuki's heart thudded painfully inside her chest, every breath an effort. "Stop that. It's nonsense. It wasn't my fault..." she snapped. "It was. You were distracting them! I bet they were just too worried about going poor from spending cash on your filthy little rich-kid butt, so they stayed together." Aiko said harshly. "Shut up!" Miyuki barked, old tears filling her eyes. "It WAS your fault. EVERYTHING. The divorce, their deaths. Hell, even the end of the WORLD is your fault." Aiko snarled, obviously getting revenge. "Who would want to die for YOU?!" she added. "STOP IT!! THEY LOVED ME AND I LOVED THEM!! THEY LOVED EACH OTHER!!" Miyuki screamed, putting her hands over her ears in a pitiful attempt to escape Aiko's voice.   (Yuu and Yuki, still eating, looked up, hearing screams. They turned to each other, Yuki alarmed and Yuu calm and impassive as ever.) "Leave me alone. Why are you saying such things?" Miyuki asked softly, holding tears back. "Because I have to DIE for you! I won't!! Not ever!!" Aiko snapped. "Jeez, you're so full of yourself! No wonder you're the end of the Earth! No wonder you're parents died because of you!" Aiko cried.

The next moments were a blur. Miyuki remembered scooping the metal rod that lay at her feet up. The metal was cold and wet from the rain, but her body was numb. Aiko looked alarmed, startled, and she was getting closer. No, Miyuki was going closer. She raised the bar and smacked Aiko over the head. Aiko groaned and crumpled on the ground. She looked up weakly to see Miyuki, tears streaming down her face, eyes wide, a large smile across her lips, bringing the bar down. Yuu's hand caught the metal, and his arm went around her waist. "MIYUKI! Calm yourself!" he whispered sharply into her hair. Yuki grabbed the bloody Aiko and started to pull her away. Miyuki screamed to Aiko, "It wasn't my fault! They loved me. They would never have believed it was my fault." Yuu's eyes trailed over to Aiko. Their eyes met, and Aiko shivered from the pure, unreasoning anger in them. Miyuki's grin got wider. "I'll kill you. I'll kill you for saying something like that." she whispered, mad with anger and grief. "MIYUKI!" Yuu yelled into her ear. Her hands released the bar, her arms falling to her sides. Yuu, holding the bar up, tightened his grip around her waist. Aiko was finally dragged away, moaning. Miyuki broke from Yuu's grasp while he was distracted and sprinted off. "Miyuki!" he called. She looked around wildly. The cliff, the cliff, the cliff. She ran as fast as she could, but collapsed a few feet from the edge, sobbing. Yuu was kneeling by her in a second, dropping the metal bar. He reached out for her, but Miyuki had him in her arms before he could react. Almost instantly, however, his arms were around her, too, as if he had planned on hugging her from the start. "It's not my fault. . ." she said slowly, sobbing. "Idiot. I know." he snapped, whacking her over the head. "Who do you think you are? Eh? A murderer?" he snarled, crossing his arms. ". . .You know, you're actually making me feel better. . ." she said, smiling and sniffling. Yuu frowned, confused, a little red in the face. Miyuki looked down. "You're barefoot. . ." she said. "Uhm, so? I heard screaming, we ran out here." he said, frowning, his arms loosening. "Thanks." she said quietly. His look softened, just a bit. "Well, what ever. Get up." he said. He himself stood up. "Can I call you Yuu-chan?" Miyuki wondered, smiling. "Uhm, if you do, I'll punch you." he said slowly. "Yuu-chan!" she said, pursing her lips. He raised his hand. She flinched. Then, he broke into a grin. Her heart stopped in its tracks. She had never seen him smile before. He flicked her on the forehead. "Jeez, Miyuki. I wouldn't hit ya. Sure, I may be heartless, but not impolite. The only time I would hit you would be when I'm crazy with rage." he said, his smile gentle. As soon as it appeared, it was gone though. He held his hand out. She smiled broadly and took his hand.

Yuu set the book down back in its proper place. He was at the library, the very top floor. It had all sorts of info on Chains, Symbols, and marks. And it had this window seat that let you gaze past the cliff and at all the trees. Which was his favourite place to be. He hung out there a lot, just in silence, glancing up from his book once in awhile to see the outside. And, APPARENTLY, everyone ELSE'S favourite place. They always followed him like puppies. He hardly got a freaking second to himself. Haruna, Rinna, Yuki, and Miyuki were currently talking, crowded in a circle. "It's loud for a library, isn't it?" someone asked Yuu. He turned to stare at Leo. He said nothing, just went back to sorting books. "Not a man of many words, eh? Isn't that Kriz's job?" Leo asked. "I haven't seen Kriz in awhile. Prob'ly out on some sort of mission or another." Yuu said solemnly, dropping a book into its place. "You've never looked happier. Surrounded by friends." Leo said. Yuu glanced at him. Leo and Yuu never got along that well. Lately, however, Yuu found himself drawn to Leo, since Leo was rather fatherly. Leo had shown a particular interest in Yuu ever since they heard of Suetsukata's existence. Then, when he heard Yuu got the job, he bothered Yuu even more. "Does it matter?" Yuu asked, sighing. "Time's ticking, son. You've only got two years or so. When will you do something for yourself?" Leo said. Yuu slammed the book away and said, "Excuse me." He walked over to the window seat and sat down. Leo grinned, vanishing into the shadows. Yuu glared, then flipped his book open. "Hey, Yuu." Miyuki said, sitting down and leaning against the window seat. "Mmm." he murmured, reading. "Do you think Jukusei is alright? He left and I haven't seen him for awhile. What if he won't save me?" she asked timidly. Yuu pursed his lips, hardly listening. "Siddown." he said. "I am." she retorted, patting the floor. He looked at her. She shivered and sat on the plush window seat, frowning. He continued staring at her, then slammed his hand into her forehead. She fell back, onto his arm. He wrapped his arm around her, letting his fingers rest on her forehead. "Now listen, he'll figure it out." Yuu said soothingly. Miyuki, red, said nothing, but wiped tears away. "I'm scared, you know." she said. Yuu stared at his book, his throat closed off. "I know."

Jukusei panted, his body worn out. "I told you not to cooperate with him. . ." the girl said. "WHAT WAS I SUPPOSED TO DO?! HE WAS GOING TO HURT YOU!" he snapped. She flinched, then looked away. "I'm sorry." she said. His face softened. "No. . .Don't be. . ." he said slowly. "If only we were closer. We could escape easily." she said. The chains had already caused bleeding for both of them. "Let me try. . .He sealed my powers off, but I could try to get out. . ." Jukusei said. He leaned over, his hands and feet glowing blue. He got close to her. "I can't. . .go any farther. . ." he said. His limbs were about to tear apart. Owwwch. The girl struggled forward, kissing him quickly. His eyes flashed blue. "Heh. . .Why didn't we try that five minutes earlier?" he said, breaking out. He flicked his hand and her chains shattered. "Now to kill who Leo paid to do this to us. Then Leo himself of course." he snapped. "Leo should know where he or she is." the girl said. "I bet he does." Jukusei muttered, rubbing his bloody wrists. "Ah." he said, remembering something. "First, we need to go help Suetsukata and Kujiku." he said. The girl nodded. "Shourai. . .Give them the outline of their future." Jukusei commanded. Shourai nodded. "As you wish." she said, bowing. Jukusei frowned, pulled her up and kissed her. "Don't scare me like that anymore." he said timidly, looking off. Shourai smiled. "You're cute. Really cute. That you'd worry over me—" she said smugly, shrugging. "Shut it." Jukusei hissed. She flicked her short black hair back. "What ever. Let's go meet 'em." Shourai said. "Alright. . ." Jukusei said, sulking. "Oh, jeez." she said, rolling her eyes. She took his hand and started walking. "Where are they?" Jukusei asked. "Library." she answered automatically. "Well, if Kujiku is there, Suetsukata is too." she explained. "Ah. Good. We'll need them to have a good relationship." Jukusei said, falling into step with Shourai. "Well, did you show her?" Shourai asked. "No time. I'll show her now." he answered, opening the door to the library. "Kujiku." he barked. Yuu looked up. "Suetsukata." he added. Miyuki looked over, still huddled by Yuu. "Come, come. We need to show you your Juudaisei*." Jukusei said. (*-Could translate to 'Importance') "He called you Kujiku..." Miyuki whispered. "That means 'Crush' or 'Break', does it not?" she asked. Yuu looked away. Jukusei, overhearing them, said,"All will be explained. Even about Kujiku." Miyuki got up, but then Shourai, hanging upside down, dropped from the ceiling. "Suetsukata! It's a pleasure!" she quipped. Miyuki fell back, her mouth open in a silent scream. "You scared the Hell out of that poor girl." Jukusei said sympathetically. Yuu leaned over Miyuki. "Get up." he commanded. Miyuki scrambled up, standing straight in front of Yuu. "Ha. I trained it." Yuu said, snapping. Miyuki whacked him over the head. "Uhm, ow." he said, flicking her harshly. "Owww. . ." she whined. "Sorry to startle you. I'm Shourai, the Fortune Teller!" Shourai said, posing cutely. Miyuki nodded, dumbfounded. "Enough. Introductions later." Jukusei declared, leading them away.

Volume 1, Chapter 5
 

For some reason, Jukusei had suddenly kissed Miyuki. He parted from her, dropping his hands. Miyuki wiped her mouth, stunned. Jukusei's body started to glow, and starting from his feet, he disappeared. Miyuki's eyes widened, then she clutched her arm. "Heh. . .Heh heh heh." she laughed. She turned, her eyes the same eerie yellow colour Jukusei's were. "Well, well, well. If it isn't Ryou Haruna." Miyuki said, her hand on her hip. "Jukusei. Just find her Chain and Symbol." Haruna said coldly. Miyuki frowned. "So very hateful, aren't we? As you wish." she said. "Ah. . . Her Chain is also a weapon. It would be a shame to let this one die." Jukusei/Miyuki said. "And her Symbol?" Haruna asked. "Much more difficult. . . " he answered. "Ah, she's pushing me out—" Jukusei started, before Miyuki's body pulsed and he flew out. He hit the bars on the opposite end and slid down to a sitting position. "Wow. . ." Haruna said. Miyuki spat,"YOU JERK!! Suddenly kissing me! Then it felt like you were looking right into my thoughts!" Jukusei stood up and smiled. "I was, Suetsukata. I was. Never mind that now, however, as we have a visitor. And my time is up, anyway." he said. "Your time is up? What do you mean?" Haruna asked, clutching Miyuki's arm. ". . .Nothing. Girl. Suetsukata. Your Chain is your hands. Your Symbol is—" he started, before a metallic creaking was heard. "It's in plain view. . ." he said slowly, staring at her. "Now leave." he said. He seemed restless. Haruna frowned, ushering Miyuki away. "You tell Leo—" Jukusei said, before another creaking was heard. Jukusei's eyes widened for a brief second, then the platform collapsed. "JUKUSEI!!" Haruna screamed, rushing to the edge. Miyuki was right by Haruna in a second. Screams were heard from below. "Oh my God. . ." Haruna whispered.  

"He said we had a visitor and that his time was up." Haruna explained to a few people who were trying to figure out what had happened. They frowned, obviously confused. "Let's go, Miyuki." Haruna said, grabbing Miyuki's arm and leading her away. "What was THAT?" Miyuki said. "Is he okay?!" she asked. "Uhm, I'm not sure. . . " Haruna said, her eyes panicky. They turned the corner and bumped into Yuu, Yuki, and Rinna. "We heard what happened," Yuki said, his eyes worried. "I hope he's okay. . ." Rinna sobbed. "He'll live." Yuu said. "We have someone else to worry about right now anyway." he said. He jerked his thumb behind him, and Yuki nodded. Miyuki and Haruna peered over his shoulder. A girl stood there, her long blonde hair tied back in ponytails. Her eyes were red, scared. "Who is she?" Haruna asked. "We don't know. We saw her running outside, about to jump from the cliff. She has a mark." Yuu said, pressing the girl's head down. On the back of her neck was a small blue mark. The girl stared at her feet. Miyuki and Haruna looked at each other, their stomachs sinking. "What's your name?" Haruna demanded, pushing Yuu and Yuki aside. The girl looked up, terrified, and backed away. "Tell me your name!" Haruna snapped, grabbing the girl's collar. Yuu grabbed Haruna's wrist roughly and pulled her away. "WHAT are you doing?" he hissed. "Jukusei knew she would show up! He said his time was up and then this girl shows up!" Miyuki said, stepping forward angrily. "She's done nothing." Yuu snapped, grabbing Miyuki too. "Yuki! Take this," he barked, pushing Miyuki to Yuki,"to my room! Haruna! Get away from her." Haruna glared at Yuu, pulled her wrist away, and stepped back. The girl wiped her tears away and clutched Yuu's arm. Yuu pulled her behind him defensively. "Miyuki." he said. Miyuki, her arms held by a confused Yuki, looked up angrily. Yuu's cold gaze made her shiver. He shook his head. "Yuki! Take her to my room." he commanded. Yuki nodded and pulled Miyuki away. "AND I'M NOT A 'THIS'!!" Miyuki called, struggling, referring to Yuu's previous comment. "Why don't you call Haruna 'MOM' once in awhile!!" Miyuki snapped, too angry to stop herself. Yuu's eyes widened, but Miyuki was dragged away before he could say anything.

Miyuki sat down on Yuu's bed, arms crossed, lips pursed. Yuki frowned. "Miyuki. . ." he said. "What?!" she snapped. Yuki drew back, a hurt look on his face. "Sorry. . .It's just. . .Jukusei KNEW that this girl would show up, and then his time was up. Then the platform collapses and she shows up." Miyuki said softly. Yuki smiled. "It's okay. But she didn't do anything. You can't be so sure that she, you know, DROPPED Jukusei." he said logically. "Yea, yea, I know." Miyuki said stubbornly. The door opened, and Yuu stepped in. Yuki smiled at Miyuki, but it was forced. "You're Dead." he mouthed. Miyuki inched away so her back was pressed to the wall. Yuu jumped onto his bed, slammed his fist inches from Miyuki's face, then snapped,"You witch. Attacking some girl for no reason, then talking to me like that. Who do you think I am? I hold your worthless life in the palm in my hand." He leaned closer. "And I can crush it." he hissed. Yuki left the room quietly, like a small animal trying hard not to attract its predator. "I think you're an IDIOT." Miyuki snarled back. Yuu's eyes narrowed. "I don't tell YOU what to call your parents, do I?!" he barked. "No, but it wouldn't MATTER." Miyuki said, her heart aching. "Oh? And why not?" he said menacingly. "Obviously, you know NOTHING of the life you 'hold in the palm of your hand'. They're DEAD." Miyuki said, getting in Yuu's face. Yuu said nothing. "Save your sympathy." Miyuki said coldly, pushing past him. He grabbed her arm. "What makes you think I was gonna pity you?" he snapped. He pulled her back and pushed her down. His hands gripped her shoulders, keeping her lying down. "You speak that way to me again, and you're as good as dead." he said, his voice oddly calm. Miyuki glared. He glared back. Then, a shudder of tears rang through Miyuki's body. She fought them off. "Yuu, show me your Symbol." Miyuki commanded. "What? How do you know about that?" he snapped. "Just show me." she said. "Again, who do you think I am?! Don't go ordering me around." Yuu snarled, getting off of her. Miyuki grabbed his hand. "Show me." she said again softly. Yuu frowned. "Alright. Don't get all fangirly over me, though, got it?" he said. Miyuki nodded, confused. Yuu inhaled deeply, then cat-ish/wolf-ish/dog-ish ears propped up from the top of his head. Miyuki stared at them. Yuu looked away, his cute ears twitching. "Ohhhh, they're so cute. . .♥" Miyuki mooned, rubbing them. Yuu's eyes closed a little as she scratched behind them, but then shook her off. "Whoa." he said, holding his hands up. "You saw okay?" he said, laying his ears back. "You keep them laid back all the time? But they're so cute. . .You should leave them out." Miyuki said, pouting. He huffed. The girl from before peeked into Yuu's room, then ran over to him. Yuu looked down at her as she nestled her way under his arm. "Jeez. Something scared her to death." he muttered, patting her head. "Can you tell me your name?" he asked. "A. . .Aiko." she said slowly. "Aiko-san, eh? Don't worry. You're safe here." Yuu said reassuringly. Miyuki pouted, already disliking this Aiko.

Jukusei walked down the halls, blood dripping from his arm. Ah, the fell was much harsher than he expected, especially since that man sealed most of Jukusei's powers. He gripped his arm. Ah, he forgot what pain felt like. And wow, it, like, hurt. "LEO!" Jukusei barked. Leo, a few paces in front of him, turned and smiled his charming smile. "Jukusei, what happened?" he asked. "Don't play innocent." Jukusei snapped. "Why are you so mad?" Leo asked, his smile never faltering. "YOU!! You've done this to me!! You're killing me! I'm in agony every day because of you, and you don't care! YOU'D KILL EVERYONE TO GET WHAT YOU WANT!! Suetsukata has shown up, and now you've the perfect chance, eh? I won't allow it! My powers may be sealed, but I can still kick your skinny butt. If you try anything, I'll be there. And I'll kick the Hell out of you." Jukusei said, his voice dripping steel. Leo smiled. "Try it. In your current condition, even Suetsukata could snap you out of her body." he said snidely. "Shut up! That was a fluke! And she's powerful, you know it!" Jukusei snarled. Leo's smile flickered. "Jukusei, you watch your back. If you slip up one time, I'll claim your little doll. And you will have to hear her scream for years. Do. I. Make. Myself. Clear?" he threatened. "IF YOU TOUCH HER, I SWEAR I'LL KILL YOU." Jukusei said, his eyes showing his panic, fear. "Try it." Leo said, his smile returning. "If I must, I'll resort to your level! I'LL KILL YOUR WIFE. Nice and slow. . .And I'll make HIM watch. . ." Jukusei said, amusement in his voice. Leo snapped, turning to face Jukusei, his eyes wild with rage. "You even look at my wife and I'll— I'll—" he stuttered. "What? You'll what? What more could you take from me? I'll never let you hurt her. . ." Jukusei said, his voice soft. He walked away, limping, before Leo could do anything. "This is a fight between you and me, Leo. Our form of killing may be beautiful, but it is not an art. It is cold, violent, gory. And you wouldn't want your wife to look like that, would you?" Jukusei called. "No. This is a fight between me and the world. And I never lose." Leo snapped.

Miyuki swung her legs back and forth, bored. Yuki sat by her, yawning. Yuu sat by both of them, Aiko snuggling against him. Rinna sat tensely by Yuki, irritated. Miyuki, Yuki, and Rinna were all glaring at Aiko. Yuu glared back at them, his arm around her, legs crossed, chin resting on his fist. He looked like a complete bachelor with his stupid confident expression and calm exterior, a bashful young mistress at his side. Which, of course, miffed everyone off more. Miyuki stood up, stretching. "Well, not that this wasn't totally not-boring. . ." she said, starting to walk away. Jukusei bumped into her. "Ah, Suetsukata. Just the cursed, defiled soul I wanted to see." he said casually. "Oh my God. You're alive and here. Hi, by the way." Miyuki said, wondering whether to be insulted or not. "And that. . .thing in Yuu's arms too. Goody. Aren't I lucky? C'mere. Both of you." he said, holding his still bleeding arm. Miyuki frowned. "Hold on now. What happened? The platform just collapsed, and suddenly you appear all hunky-dory? Explanation, please." she said. "Uhm. I fell. End. Let's go." he said, grabbing the terrified Aiko and confused Miyuki. He pulled them outside into the rain. "Okay, listen. Both of you share something very important — Well, one of you do. The other will be used as a weak, pathetic decoy that we'll be lucky if it works. Alright? Suetsukata, you're important. Aiko? You were made to die for her. Understood?" Jukusei rushed, gesturing with his hands. "H-Hold on!" Aiko cried. "I'm not going to die, am I? I don't want to die!" she sobbed, running back inside, screaming Yuu's name. "Ah, Yuu's gonna beat the Hell out of me for scaring her. But it's true. Suetsukata, listen. Stay. Away. From. Leo. No matter what. If he needs you, wants you, what ever, have YUU go. Or Haruna. Do you understand?" Jukusei said. His voice was hard and steely. "J-Jeez, why? He's nice—" she started. "That MONSTER did this to me! And he'll do wors—" Jukusei snapped, before he stopped. He cocked his head, listening. "Oh no. Oh no, oh no!!" he said, panicking. "STAY HERE! DON'T MOVE." he snapped. "AIKO. AIKO, get that skinny little body back out here!" he snarled, striding into Sono Gakuen. He reappeared with Aiko and threw her at Miyuki's feet. "If Leo comes, run like Hell." he commanded. "He has my girl. . ." he moaned, jumping into the air. He landed far up, at least five stories, and burst through a window. "What's going on?!" Miyuki snapped, stunned and confused.

Volume 1, Chapter 4

"Ahhhhh, I'm so fulllll," Miyuki moaned, rubbing her stomach. Yuu and Yuki weren't as cheerful. "How come she got more? Every time a cute girl comes, they get more food." Yuki whined to Yuu. "I don't care." Yuu responded, never that cheerful anyways. "You're still hungry?" Yuu asked, peering over at Yuki. "Yes, and I know what I will eat!" Yuki said, determined. "Which is?" Yuu muttered, staring at the ceiling. "Yoooouuuu~!! I could eat you up, so I will!" Yuki quipped, hugging Yuu. "Get off." he said coldly. "Aww, you two are so cute." Miyuki said, tilting her head. "By the way, Rinna is standing behind you." she added, examining her nails. Yuu and Yuki froze then turned slowly. Rinna glared down at them. "Stop hugging Yuu so much, Karuhina!" she snapped, her hands on her hips. "What will you do about it, Rinna?" Yuki asked menacingly. "Besides, this is the... uh, GROUP YU's table!" she added, baring her teeth. "Group Yu?" Rinna, Yuu, and Miyuki asked. "Only people with the sound 'yu' in their name can sit here. MiYUki, YUu, and YUki." Yuki said, smiling smugly. Rinna pursed her lips. "Just 'cause you're older doesn't mean you can bully me, Karuhina!" Rinna said, stomping her feet. "How old are you?" Miyuki asked kindly. "I'm turning ten soon!" Rinna said proudly, holding up ten fingers. "You're so cute. Come here, sit with oneechan!" Miyuki cooed, holding her arms out. Rinna squealed and jumped onto Miyuki's lap. "I like this oneechan. But don't get too close to Yuu. He's gonna marry me when I get older!" she said, smiling. Miyuki scoffed. "He said so?" Yuki asked, this the first time she heard of it. "Yea... It went like..." Rinna started. "Yuu-kun! Yuu-kun!" Rinna said, only seven. "Hm?" Yuu said, distant, reading a book. "I want to marry you! Will you marry Rinna when she gets older*?" Rinna asked. (*-Kids sometimes use third person, mixing it up with the proper way of speaking.) "Sure, what ever." Yuu said, unaware what Rinna was asking. "That's Yuu, all right." Miyuki said dryly. "Did I really...?" Yuu asked, frowning. Yuki stood up. "No! It won't happen!" she said. "Let's go, Group Yu!" she declared, pulling Yuu and Miyuki away. Miyuki snagged a soda before she was mauled. Rinna waved sadly, but then someone sat by her. Miyuki could hardly make them out. They looked like... Yuu?!

Miyuki turned to see Yuu walking just in front of her. He felt her gaze and turned. He frowned, then turned back. Miyuki looked back again, but Rinna and Yuu... or the look-alike was gone. "Huh..." she muttered, rubbing her eyes. Yuki hugged Yuu. "Don't marry Rinnaaaa!" she sobbed, sniffling. Yuu sighed. "If I say I won't, will you get off?" he asked. "If you hug me back, I'll leave you alone for a day." Yuki said, smiling. Yuu hugged her back, no hesitation. "Are you both, like, dating?" Miyuki asked. Yuki's eyes glittered. "Hell no." Yuu snapped, pushing Yuki off. "Do you think I'm GAY?" he hissed. "...Gay?" Miyuki asked, confused. "You're a GIRL?!" she screamed, shocked. "WHAT?! No!! Yuki's a DUDE." Yuu fired back, stunned. Yuki smiled warmly. "Did you think I was a girl?" he/she asked kindly. "...Uhm, kinda." Miyuki said, stunned. "I'm male." Yuki said gently. "But— you...love Yuu!" Miyuki insisted. Yuki laughed. "I'm gay." he said, winking. "My actual name is Karuhina Yukinosuke*." Yuki said, smiling brightly. (*-'Suke' is often used in MALE Japanese names) "They just call me Yuki. Or at least they should. They all call me Karuhina like we're not friends..." he whined, sniffling. Yuu huffed. "Gay? Me?" he muttered, walking away. Miyuki frowned, "Yuu, wait, sor—" she started, before tripping. While tripping, her soda flew from her hands and, unfortunately, onto Yuu's head, smack in the nose. He stumbled back, surprised and soaked and sticky. His eyes trailed from his white and red and, now stained brown, jacket to Miyuki. "S-s-s-s-sorry!!" she said, holding her hands up defensively. He sighed. "I'm going to change." he said simply, walking off. "Ah, wait, Yuu—" Miyuki called, running around the corner where he disappeared. She froze. Yuu was walking back already, his hair and clothes already dry. "Uhm, wow, that was fast." Miyuki said. Yuu stared at her. "Uhm, okay." he said. He sounded more... light and happy. His clothes must have been baggy, because these body-hugging ones revealed slender curves and smaller shoulders. "Sorry for spilling my drink on you." Miyuki murmured. Yuu tilted his head. A smile flickered across his mouth. "Ah, it's fine." he said. He moved a bit closer. "W-what?" Miyuki asked, stepping back. His blue eyes stared her down. "Nothing. You're just cute." he said, flipping his hair back. "...Where's the real Yuu?! His eyes are red!!" Miyuki shrieked, terrified. Yuu pouted, making Miyuki shiver. "Right here, sweetie. ♥" he said, winking. "Stop that, Haruna." came a darker voice. Miyuki turned to see another Yuu, frowning. "W-W-WHAAAAAAAT?!"

"Nyahahahaha! You shoulda seen your face, little girl!" the Yuu-look-alike cooed. "Wh-what's going on? Who are you?" Miyuki asked. "I'm Ryou Haruna." the Yuu-look-alike introduced, bowing. The Yuu-look-alike pulled her jacket off, revealing long, silky white hair. It was pulled in a ponytail, but the top looked just like Yuu's, wild and edgy. They looked exactly the same, but Haruna was shorter and slender. She also had a more pouty, full mouth, longer lashes, and her eyes didn't resemble Yuu's at all. "Sorry, you just thought I was Yuu and I couldn't help it. I just had to tease you a little. I'm his mother." Haruna said. Yuu sighed. "Haruna, would you please escort Mi-yu-ki back to Yuki? I need to go see Sakena-sensei." Yuu said, turning away before she could answer. He walked briskly, turning the corner. "Why does he call you Haruna?" Miyuki asked. "Because that's my name." Haruna said, smiling gently. It was pretty weird. It was like seeing Yuu smile. "Wouldn't he call you 'mother' or something?" Miyuki went on. Haruna frowned. "It's a delicate matter." was all she said. "Hi, Haruuuuna! You're looking fabulous, as ever." Yuki crooned, smiling. "Hello, Karuhina. As are you." Haruna said gently, smiling back. Miyuki tapped her chin. "Why is everyone here so confusing? Yuki's so pretty and Yuu looks exactly like Haruna." she said. "Ah, well, yes, Yuki is pretty. And don't your parents look like you?" Haruna asked. Miyuki's face darkened. "...Yea, a little." she said, walking away. "Uhm, sorry?" Yuki called. Miyuki looked around, wondering where she was going. Sono Gakuen was huge... "Lift your Chain, please?" she heard someone say. She peeked in a door, wondering what was going on. "You can't just examine the mark?" Yuu asked. He was standing in front of a girl with huge rimmed glasses and blue hair tied back. "...Well, show me the mark first, then your Chain." the girl said. "Don't touch me this time, though. Understand? It hurts." Yuu snapped, taking his shirt off and turning his back to her. The mark Miyuki had seen before was there, but bigger. Was it growing? The girl slipped a glove on and ran her gloved fingers over his back. He clenched his teeth and hissed, obviously in pain. Miyuki watched, stunned. He arched his back, muttering,"Stop, stop, stop..." The girl frowned. "Now, show me that pretty Chain..." she murmured. Metal tore from his back and spread out into the shape of wings. Miyuki reared back, covering her mouth. She ran off before anyone could hear her suppressed scream of surprise.

"Haruna, what's a Chain?" Miyuki asked as soon as she saw Haruna. "A Chain? Ah, that's easy. A Chain is the chain that binds you to your mark." Haruna said. "Do I have a Chain?" Miyuki wondered. "Most probably. After all, you are Suetsukata, right?" Haruna quipped. "...Yea." Miyuki said. "What's Yuu's Chain?" she asked. "Yuu? Well, Yuu has metallic wings on his back. Irremovable." Haruna said, filing her nails. "I see... What's my chain?" Miyuki asked. "How am I supposed to know, sweetie? Jukusei can help with a few things." Haruna said, blowing on her nails. "Can you take me to him?" Miyuki asked hopefully. "'Course I can. Come on." Haruna replied, walking away. Miyuki trailed her, following quickly. "I may as well explain other things. You'd probably want to know anyway. Well, if you have a mark, you have a Chain. However, there is one other thing that connects you to your mark. It's a symbol, in a way. And it's called, basically, Symbol. Symbol is attached to a part of your body, God knows where, and it symbolizes your curse. Symbol can be any number of things. From ANOTHER mark on your skin, to a different eye colour, to an object placed on your body, et cetera. It could even be in your head, if ya know what I mean. You could have a voice in your head that is Symbol." Haruna explained. "Wow... Sounds complicated." Miyuki muttered. "It's actually quite simple. Your curse has three parts to it: Symbol, Chain, and Mark. The mark is plain to see," Haruna said, indicating to Miyuki's neck,"and the chains are more difficult. If you really want to know, Sakena-sensei can draw it out for you. Her glove allows that. Now, Symbol are the most difficult to find. It could be anything, anywhere." Miyuki frowned. "Let's go see Sakena-sensei next then. I want to know my Chain." she said. "Alright. Where did you hear about Chains anyway?" Haruna asked. "Is this Jukusei's place?" Miyuki asked, avoiding the question. Haruna smiled. "Uh-huh. Go ahead, knock. Inside awaits the most pleasant Hell you'll ever see."

Miyuki opened the door after knocking. "Jukusei-san? Hello?" she called into the darkness. "Step onto the platform, please." said a young, pretty secretary. Miyuki and Haruna did so, waiting. The platform shot upwards, making Miyuki stumble. They stopped suddenly, right by a barred platform. "Jukusei, for reasons unknown, were put behind these bars, though he's very useful." Haruna whispered. They stepped forward. "You've brought me another one, I see." a voice said. "He sounds young. I thought he was old." Miyuki whispered. "He is old. He looks young, but he's thousands of years old." Haruna said quietly, shushing Miyuki. "Ah, yes. She wants to know about her mark and Chain. And if you can, her Symbol." Haruna said loudly. "Bring her closer." Jukusei commanded. Haruna nodded reassuringly, taking Miyuki further. Miyuki squinted, her eyes adjusting to the darkness. She didn't need to, though, as a young male clutched the bars. His eyes were dark, like he never slept, and his hands gripped the bars as if he was about to fall. "Ah. Suetsukata, eh?" he muttered, looking Miyuki up and down. "Y-yes." Miyuki managed, stepping back. Haruna pushed her forward, shaking her head. "What do you want?" Jukusei asked. "Uh, I want to know my Symbol. And Chain." Miyuki answered. "Don't we all." he muttered. He reached through the bars and took Miyuki's hand. He pulled her closer, so that they were staring eye-to-eye. "So, you wanna know your Chain and Symbol, eh?" Jukusei asked. "Y-yes..." Miyuki said, somewhat scared. "Then allow me to take a look around." he said. "Around where?" Miyuki asked. Jukusei fixed her with a stare. "Around that pretty little head and soul of yours, Suetsukata." he said simply.

Volume 1, Chapter 3

"Well, Alec. Let's do this properly now." Yuu said, releasing the blade. Alec smiled. "My pleasure." he said snidely. Miyuki worriedly crawled away, holding her bleeding arm. Yuu launched himself at Alec, bringing his gunblade down. Alec parried, stepping back quickly. They were soon fighting diligently, there swords clanging. Yuu stopped himself mid-swing, confusing Alec, then slammed his fist into Alec's jaw. Alec stumbled back, then lunged again. Alec slid his katana down Yuu's gunblade, pinning it down. Then he himself punched Yuu, stepping on the gunblade. Yuu lost balance and fell back, catching himself and flipping back onto his feet. Now he was weaponless. Alec clutched Yuu's gunblade and threw it into the air. Mika sped past, catching it. She was bleeding, but if she could FLY, then she probably wasn't human either. Mika landed by Alec, cornering Yuu. Yuu gritted his teeth, looking at them back and forth. Miyuki looked for an object so she could possibly help. Nothing. Alec jumped at Yuu, and Yuu stepped back. Soon, Yuu was just dodging and Alec swinging his sword wildly. Mika was now joining, smiling. She was behind Yuu, so he had to sidestep and jump away. Both Mika and Alec flew up to Yuu, slicing at the same time in opposite directions. Yuu was sliced badly on both sides. He crashed downwards, hitting the ground mercilessly. Yuu sat up, wincing, his vision blurry. He was still human, and he would die soon if they managed to slice him as badly again. Yuu staggered upwards, seeing a fist fly at him. Alec cuffed Yuu on the nose, sending Yuu flying. He hit the walls of the ruins, and slumped. Still standing, he looked up again, hazily. Mika and Alec plunged their weapons into Yuu's stomach, side by side, smiling crazily. Yuu coughed blood, shocked, his legs losing strength. He hung by the swords, blood dripping from his mouth, sides, and spurting from his stomach. Yuu felt himself losing consciousness, but Mika pressed her hand into his side, making him jolt with the pain. "Stay with us now." Mika hissed, laughing. Miyuki tackled Mika, and the two went down thrashing. Miyuki had found a rock, knocking Mika out. Miyuki stood shakily, wondering what she had just done. Mika slumped against the boulders, and Alec grabbed Miyuki. "Little—" he started, before Miyuki brought her leg up between his legs. Alec fell over, groaning. "Owww. . .I'll kill you— once the pain stops. . ." he snapped, closing his eyes. Miyuki tore the swords from Yuu's stomach, leaning him against her. Her arm throbbed, light-headed from blood loss.

She picked Yuu's gunblade up, then went as fast as she could while Yuu was leaning on her. Miyuki froze when she heard something hollow when she stepped on it. She inspected it, hearing wind come from the darker stones. She tried lifting it with success. "Yuu, we can hide in here," she whispered urgently. He slurred,"Well? Go in." Miyuki shook her head, pulling away. He slunk to his knees, breathing hard. Miyuki looked around, then whispered,"I'll go in if you go in. Hurry, they'll be coming!" Yuu frowned at her, one eye closed. But, he did so, dropping himself in. He landed and staggered, dizzy. "Alright." he called up weakly. Miyuki dropped in and into Yuu's arms. He set her down and looked around. They were in a corridor, a large hallway leading to a spacious, circular room. The room was made of nothing but earth like it was dug out, and had a clear view of the rainy sky. Yuu looked back to see Miyuki standing on rocks, balancing. She pulled the stones back, covering the hole they came in from. "Now let's pray they don't find us." she said, holding her arm. "Come here." Yuu said, sitting down. Miyuki sat in front of him. He took her arm and examined it, then said,"Close your eyes." She did so, confused, holding her breath. There was a prick in her arm, and then pain. She opened her eyes, worried. Yuu was sewing the gash in her arm shut, nimbly. Miyuki felt bile rise to her throat and shut her eyes again. "Alright, done. Don't puke on me." Yuu muttered. "So it wasn't just for clothes, huh?" Miyuki asked, calming herself, looking at her arm. "No." he said. Once more, even on the verge of death, he said nothing else. What a chatterbox, this guy. Yuu closed his eyes, his body relaxing. "Hey, Yuu?" Miyuki asked, about to freak. He wouldn't respond. "YUU!!" she cried. He opened one eye. "What?" he asked irritably. "D-do you need anything?" Miyuki asked, concerned. He thought it over. "Water, I guess." he said, gesturing to the rain. Miyuki nodded and ran to the circular earthen room. "Ah, cup, cup. . .No cups. . .Bottles?" she muttered, looking around. She looked at her hands and then to the sky. She trotted back to Yuu, her hands out. In her cupped hands was water. "No containers." she said to Yuu when he looked at her strangely. He rolled his eyes, then put his mouth to her hands. Miyuki looked at the sky, begging Aru to show up and save the day. Nothing.

Miyuki suppressed laughter, smiling. "What?" Yuu asked, somewhat surprised. "Tickles." she said, looking to her hand. He sighed, holding his stomach. Miyuki poured the rest of the water onto his sides, washing the blood away. Yuu winced, groaning. Miyuki frowned. "What do I do now?" she asked. "Just stay quiet." Yuu said, closing his eyes again. Miyuki bit her lip. If Yuu died, who would help her?! Miyuki started to panic. She got up and stood in the rain, washing the blood from her arm, clothes, and hair. Her hands were shaking, Yuu's blood silently washed away from them. Miyuki felt tears rise. She was scared. What would she do if Yuu died? Who would save her? She wiped the tears away. God, she was pathetic. All she did was cry!! Miyuki put a strong face on, sniffling. Then she shivered, freezing. Hands clutched her shoulders and rubbed them briskly. Miyuki turned to see Yuu frowning at her, blood flowing off of him in an endless stream. "Don't worry about me. You need to rest." Miyuki said. "Shut up." Yuu said, backing up. He sat back down, out of the rain. "Rain. It's wet, it's cold, I don't like it." he muttered. Miyuki sat by him, burying her face in her arms. "I'm scared, Yuu." she whispered. Yuu wiped his mouth, unsure what to say. "Being scared won't help us." he managed. "Shut it." she snapped, smiling. Miyuki looked up, hearing Alec's song. Yuu was dozing. If he fell asleep, he would definitely die. "Uh, Yuu. Wake up." Miyuki hissed, shaking him. He was already drifting off. Miyuki started to sing. Yuu blinked sleepily. "Why are you singing?" he asked. "So you won't hear Alec." Miyuki explained. Yuu said nothing, just stared off. He murmured the rest of the song. Miyuki smiled. "You know the song?" she asked. "It's a famous song, what do you expect?" he responded, tilting his head. "You don't know how to drive, you're antisocial. I just figured. . ." Miyuki trailed off. "Well, we have music in our company, you know." he said. Something dropped from the open ceiling, landing with a thud. "Aru, good to see you." Yuu called. Aru floated over, dirty. "I'm very sorry." she said, bowing. "What ever. Just help us." Yuu said, standing up.

Alec paused, Mika bumping into him. "He's over there," Alec said, turning around. Yuu was walking forward, his gunblade resting on his shoulder. A puddle of blood was already gathering at his feet. "Good to see you've decided to man up a little. I was surprised you'd run." Mika said snidely. "Well, I was with a cute chick, what'd you expect? I got a little weak in the knees." Yuu joked. Mika's face darkened. "Shut up! Stop teasing me! I'm the only girl for you!!" she sobbed, pouting. "Lemme guess: You're only killing me because you love me." Yuu added, smirking. Mika flew over to Yuu and landed in front of him. She hit his chest repeatedly, gently, and cried,"Yes!!" Yuu frowned. "Uhm, really?" he asked reluctantly. "Yes, verily." Mika said, hugging him. Yuu sighed. "Shouldn't have done that." he said. His blade sliced through her stomach, and he tore upwards. He shook her off, and she fell to the ground, moaning in pain. Yuu licked the blade, watching Alec with his red eyes. Alec frowned, then started playing his song again. Yuu blinked, but then Miyuki's voice came towards them. She was singing loudly. Yuu shook his head, awake. Alec gritted his teeth and lunged at Yuu. Aru sped past, knocking Alec's katana away. Too surprised to slow down, Alec fell onto Yuu. Yuu's gunblade thrust through him. Okay, Alec landed on Yuu and his gunblade. "Three of us now. Better retreat." Yuu hissed. Alec coughed blood, then tore himself away from Yuu. "I'll kill you." he snapped, picking Mika up. He shot off into the sky, flying off. "Heh. That was amusing." Yuu said, smirking. Miyuki, who was sprinting to keep up the whole time, ran up to him, panting. "G-good job." she said, breathing hard. Yuu stared at her. "Thanks..." he said after a moment. "Yuu-tono. We must head back now." Aru said, landing by him. "Alright." Yuu agreed, nodding. Aru pressed her forehead to Yuu's, then her body, starting from her feet, disintegrated into small white feathers. Yuu blinked, then picked Miyuki up. "Wha? Where are we going?" Miyuki asked, brushing her hair away from her eyes. Yuu looked down at her. "My company. Sono Gakuen."

"Ryou Yuu." Yuu said about half an hour later into a microphone. They were on a gigantic cliffside. Sono Gakuen looked like a castle, towering high above them. "Ryou-kun? Welcome back!" a voice declared through the microphone. "Open the gates." the voice went on. The gates opened slowly, then screeched with finality to a stop. Yuu gesture for Miyuki to follow, walking up the steps. "Wow. . .What kind of place is Sono Gakuen?" Miyuki wondered aloud. "It sucks." Yuu said bluntly, hands in pockets. "Why do you work here then, genius?" Miyuki asked. ". . .It's not like I had a choice." he said, and offered no further information. Miyuki frowned. "What do you—" she started, before a white blur shot past her. "Eh?" she thought, falling back in surprise. The blur stopped, seeing Miyuki fall. "Ah! Sorry!" the person said, grabbing Miyuki's hand and pulling her upright. "W-whoa. . .ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL ME, YOU MORON?! DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?!" Miyuki snapped, putting her hands on her hips. The person thought. "I know what you AREN'T! You're not NICE." the person snapped back. "WHY YOU--!!" Miyuki started, before Yuu separated them. "Yuki." he said darkly. "Uwaaah~, Yuu-kun! Did you just get back? Me too~!!" Yuki said, hugging Yuu. "Uhm, get off." Yuu said. He pushed the girl down and started up again. "Y-Y-Yuuuuuu, you're so meeeaaannn~!!" Yuki said, hugging herself. "You're gross!!!" Miyuki wailed, hugging Yuu for protection. Yuki smiled, but she was obviously miffed. "Don't touch my Yuu." she said sweetly. "When did I become your property? Mi-yu-ki, get off." he said. "Wha? Say my name normally and I will." Miyuki said, pouting. "No." Yuu said, sighing. "And why not?" Miyuki demanded. "What's for dinner, Yuki?" Yuu asked, avoiding the question. "What's for dinner? Why, ME, of course!" Yuki said, opening her arms. Yuu sighed again. "Someone kill me. . ."

"I'm sorry about earlier. My name is Karuhina Yuki." Yuki said, flashing Miyuki a thumbs up. Miyuki smiled. "Shiina Miyuki." she replied. "Suetsukata?" Yuki said, gaping. "U-uh, yea. . ." Miyuki said, fidgeting. "Oh, so you're here to be killed?" Yuki said, smiling. "H-Hell no!! We found a solution! Don't you dare touch me!" Miyuki shrieked, hiding behind Yuu. "Yup." he said simply. ". . .'Yup' to what?" Yuki and Miyuki asked at the same time. "Nothing. Yuki, hide me." Yuu said. Yuki stood up taller, puffing her flat chest out. Yuu hid behind her. "What's wrong?" Miyuki asked. "Rinna." Yuu said, peeking over Yuki's shoulder. A girl was looking wildly around. "I heard Yuu-kun got back! Where is he?!" she called. "Rinna? What's wrong with her?" Miyuki asked. "She's an obsessive freak." Yuki snapped. "Oh-kay. . ." Miyuki muttered, leaning against a pillar. "Ah, Miyuki, I wouldn't—" Yuu and Yuki started, before the pillar opened and Miyuki fell through. "KYAAAA!!!" she screamed, falling fast. She landed on something squishy, only twisting her ankle. "Ow ow ow. . ." she whined, looking around. "What (squiiish~ ♥) happened?" she thought, then snapped her head around to the origin of the squishing noise. "Under you, my dear. ♥" said a voice. Miyuki looked down to see a man waving at her. She was sitting on his face, but she could see long blond hair braided back. "Ah, I'm so sorry!" Miyuki said, standing up. The man stood up, his red eyes gleaming. "Not at all, my little kitty. I'm afraid I'm the one at fault. You see, I heard Yuu-chan arrived back and brought Suetsukata, and I was eager to meet you." he said, smiling. Miyuki felt her face flush. "Y-Yes, I'm Suetsukata. Nice to meet you." Miyuki said, bowing. "Leo. Just Leo. I know you, Shiina Miyuki." he said. He pronounced her name the way Yuu did— Mickey, 'milky'. Leo smiled and took Miyuki's hand. "It's an honour, Suetsukata." he said, kissing her hand. Miyuki felt her soul fly away. "Miyukiiiii~!!" she heard Yuki call. "Mi-yu-ki!" Yuu called, pronouncing each syllable separately. Miyuki frowned. "Yes, I'm here, but my name, YUU, is MIYUKI!!" she snapped. Leo smiled and vanished into the shadows. "Who were you talking to just now? I heard another voice." Yuki asked, trotting up to Miyuki. "Some dashing man named Leo." Miyuki said, smiling. "Ah, Sono Gakuen's most prized mercenary." Yuki said, hands on hips. "Leo? Ah, he's a weirdo." Yuu said thoughtfully. "He looked awfully familiar. . ." Miyuki said slowly, frowning. "Very familiar. . ."

Volume 1, Chapter 2

"Where are we going?" Miyuki asked for the hundredth time. "Would you shut up already? I'm doing my best for YOU." Yuu snapped, ticked. So far, the only emotions he had shown were mad, bored, and. . .mad. "WHAT are you doing for me? Leading me around. And you're going to kill me." Miyuki pointed out. "Not if I can find a way to save you. Besides, I'm only doing my job." Yuu said, looking around. "So. . .You expect an answer to just, like, pop out?" Miyuki asked, frowning. "Uhm, yea, that's what I'm aiming for." he said, then shook his head. "Aru! What did you find!?" he barked. Miyuki looked around. "A-Aru. . .?" she asked, wondering if he meant her. "Nothing. I've still to see the mark." a voice said. "Ah, yes yes." Yuu said, bringing his fist down onto his palm. "That's it. C'mere, Miyuki." Yuu said, opening his arms to her. "W-W-What? What do you want?!" Miyuki said, stepping back. Yuu's eyes flashed. "Mi-yu-ki." he said, his voice pronouncing each syllable deliciously. Miyuki flushed. "What? You're weirding me out," she said, shrinking back. "Just come here." he said, grabbing her. "HELP ME, SOMEBODY~!!" Miyuki shrieked, though no one was near. "Stop struggling—! Aru, here!" he snapped. Before she could react, he pulled her shirt down, revealing the ugly birthmark. Miyuki was about to scream again, when a Yuu's left eye changed colour. "W-What's happening?" she asked. Yuu gritted his teeth. "Aru. . .It hurts." he said. "You'll get used to it." the voice came back. What seemed to emerge from his eye was the cutest little girl Miyuki had ever seen— besides herself. The girl floated and examined the mark. "Interesting..." she said. Miyuki stared at her. "Ah, I'm Aru." she said. Her voice echoed, even though they were in open space. "M-Miyuki. . ." Miyuki managed, shocked. "The birthmark. It's what curses you. If we can find a way to remove it, Miyuki-tono and the world will be saved." Aru said to Yuu. "Hmm. . . How troublesome." Yuu said after a moment. "I know." he said suddenly. "Jukusei*." he said to Aru. (*-'Jukusei' can translate to 'cure'.) "Ah, yes. Jukusei can remove any curse, no matter how strong. But for a price. . ." Aru said solemnly. "Hmm. . .You're right." Yuu said, rubbing his forehead. "What price? Money? I have money." Miyuki asked, a bubble of hope swelling in her chest. "Uhm, not money. An object. Like a sacrificed soul or an artifact." Yuu said. "No matter how much cash you have, it won't do." he added. The bubble burst. Speaking of bursting, that's what Miyuki did. Into tears. She fell to a sitting position, sobbing. "We'll do our best, Miyuki-tono. . ." Aru said in her echoey voice, landing by Miyuki. "Stop crying. You can't change anything by being a wuss." Yuu said, crossing his arms. "W-WHAT A COMFORT YOU ARE!!" Miyuki screamed sarcastically, between gulps of air.

"Now to track down Jukusei." Aru said, floating above them. "Lead the way, Aru." Yuu said, picking Miyuki up. Aru sped off, and Yuu trailed her. "You're not human, right? Are you, like, a robot?" Miyuki asked Yuu. "I'm warm, aren't I?" he said, looking bored. "I guess. But it could be from wearing this furry trench coat. Or, like, you GENERATE heat to appear human." Miyuki pointed out. Yuu took her hand and dragged her nails across his face. Blood spilled out. "Human." he said simply. Miyuki pulled her hand back, shocked. "You're NOT human!! You can jump high and you didn't show any pain!" Miyuki snapped. "Well, I am human. Two percent human." Yuu muttered. "TWO PERCENT?! What's the other ninety-eight?" Miyuki said. "Umm... I dunno." Yuu said. As usual, he didn't volunteer any information. "You don't ACT human. You're the most anti-social guy I've ever met." she said. ". . .Am I supposed to care?" he said, sighing. "Well, you SHOULD. Tell me, what kinds of things do you like?" Miyuki asked. ". . .Dunno." he repeated. ". . .Well, I'll name something, then you name something. Okay?" Miyuki tried. "What ever shuts you up." he said, exasperated. "I like the way you say my name." Miyuki counted off. ". . .Uhm, why?" Yuu asked, looking at her strangely. "I dunno. It's cute. It sounds like you're saying 'Mickey' or 'milky'. It's adorable." Miyuki said brightly. Yuu looked away, obviously frustrated. "You're turn." Miyuki said, huddled in his arms. Yuu thought it over. "Blood." he said, his eyes lighting. "Why?!" Miyuki asked, shocked. "It has a sweet taste, like honey. . .It's crimson and beautiful." Yuu informed her. That was the most he had ever given away about something. "Well, that's weird for humans, but okay. It's a start. Are you, like, a vampire?" Miyuki went on. "No." Yuu said, lapsing back into his closed off self. Ah well.

Yuu landed, looking around. "Curse that Aru. She went too fast. . ." he said, setting Miyuki down. A raindrop hit her nose, which she wrinkled. "She'll come back, right?" Miyuki asked. "Duh." Yuu said, plopping down. They were in the middle of what appeared to be ruins, the buildings old and collapsing. Miyuki sat by him, shivering as rain started to fall. "It's eerie here. . ." she whispered, inspecting the place. "It reminds me o' you." Yuu said, his arm over his eyes. Miyuki got up and stormed off angrily. "Fine. I'll wait by myself." she snapped to herself, shivering. She looked at the sky miserably. She could be at home right now, warm. Why was HER life any less important than the world?! She deserved to live as much as the next girl. Warm drops dripped from her cheeks, and she realized she was crying. Why her? She wiped her eyes, crying softly. Hopefully Yuu wouldn't notice. She didn't want to cry in front of him again, especially since he would just yell anyways. She sniffled, then froze. Music was drifting softly throughout the ruins. Miyuki staggered back to Yuu, whispering softly, "Can you hear that?" He didn't respond. "Yuu?" Miyuki tried again. Nothing. She shook him gently, his arm falling to his side. He looked asleep, peaceful. "Yuu. . .Yuu, knock it off. This isn't funny. . ." Miyuki said quietly, terrified. She turned as the music got louder. She started going in the direction it was loudest, slowly. The ruins were like a maze. . . She stopped. Uhm, oops. Lost was a way understatement. She looked around wildly, and called, "Yuu?! Aru!!? SOMEBODY!!" Someone landed behind her. Mika bowed. "I'm somebody, aren't I? Allow me to escort you to your tomb." Mika said, smiling evilly. "Stay away from me. . ." Miyuki said, backing up. "Or what? Where's your knight in shining armor? Sleeping on the job! With our help, of course. I'm shocked YOU aren't asleep. . ." Mika said, crossing her arms. Miyuki didn't know what to say. So, she turned on her heels and shot off. "Good thing Athletics are one of my best subjects," she muttered, sprinting off. "YUU!! ARU!!" she yelled, hoping for some backup. "Yuu's asleep." Mika said, floating above her. Oh, flying was faster then running. And, wow, did you know? If you look behind yourself while running, you, like, trip. Miyuki fell down, face first. She sat up, rubbing her ankle. She looked up and saw Mika, Yuu, and another male. Yuu was still unconscious, but Mika was holding him up, to Miyuki's surprise. "See? Fast asleep." Mika said, rubbing her cheek against Yuu's. Miyuki gritted her teeth. "So, unable to win unless we're sleeping?" she said snidely. Mika's eyes narrowed. Miyuki's eyes trailed to the other male. He was dressed lightly, despite the frigid rain. "Ah, this is Alec." Mika said, gesturing to the male. Alec bowed. Miyuki's hand groped around, and she found a rock. She slid it closer slowly, hiding it. "So...Alec, eh? Another person trying to kill me?" Miyuki said, standing up. Alec just smiled. "Well, welcome to the club!!" Miyuki snapped, throwing the rock with all her force. Luckily, they were only a few feet away and caught off guard. They swerved from the rock, surprised. Miyuki shot off again. "Yuu, wake up soon!!" Miyuki begged silently.

"After her!" Mika shrieked, Alec walking slowly. Yuu opened one eye, trying not to startle Mika. "Crap. What a troublesome girl." he thought, biting his tongue. Mika hovered a few feet from the ground, muttering under her breath. Slowly, Yuu took his gunblade from the holster, hardly moving. He pressed it to her back. Mika stiffened, and looked down. "Good morning." Yuu said, smirking. Mika stifled a shriek of rage. "Now, listen to me—" he started, before he heard Miyuki scream. "Miyuki!!" he cursed, shooting Mika. "Oh. . .That was my last bullet." he said, seeing Mika fall. "That was an accident, old pal. Don't be too mad." Yuu said, kneeling by Mika. "Yo-your gunblade fir...es?" Mika asked weakly, blood flowing from her stomach. "Oh, you didn't know? Well, yes, it does. Now, excuse me. I have to go save an idiot." he said, standing up. "Aru? Here yet?" he called. Nothing. He clenched his jaw, running briskly. He sneezed, pausing to shake his head. "I hate rain. . ." he muttered, running off again. The smell of blood reached his nose, and there was no way it was Alec's. He followed the smell, peeking over a wall. Alec, katana in hand, was standing over Miyuki. She seemed to have been able to dodge the blow for the most part, only her arm sliced. She clutched her arm, grimacing. Alec crouched by her. "Well, here we are now, arrogant trash." he said coldly. Okay, Miyuki had been called everything from arrogant to zealous, but trash was pretty new. "Up yours! We COULD be somewhere else." Miyuki snapped. Alec clicked his tongue. "Too bad we have to kill you. I like 'em feisty." he said, rubbing her cheek. "Get off of her!" Yuu snarled, tackling Alec. "Yuu!" Miyuki said happily, relieved. Alec was much taller than Yuu and badly outweighed him, but Yuu was coldly furious and out for blood, managing to take Alec by surprise. Alec managed to knock Yuu over, and jump up. "Now you're asking for it." Alec hissed, running his fingers over his katana. Yuu spat blood from his mouth.    

Alec jumped up onto a wall, smiling crazily. He flicked his katana up, and a note played. He started using his katana as a baton, music playing. Yuu blinked, staggering. "Yuu!! Don't fall asleep!!" Miyuki cried. "Shut up, you moron. . ." he mumbled, falling over. Alec smirked and jumped high into the air, positioning his katana under him. When he fell, Yuu would totally be skewered. "YUU!! WAKE UP!!" Miyuki shrieked, lunging for Yuu. Her hand touched his shoulder, and he gasped. "He woke up?!" Alec snapped, plunging down. Yuu's eyes widened, and Miyuki shut her eyes tight. Alec dropped quickly, and Yuu was out of options. He tried untangling Miyuki's arms, whispering to her, "Get out of here, moron." Miyuki shook her head, her grip tightening. Yuu looked up, the katana about to plunge through both of them. Yuu shut his eyes right along with Miyuki, hugging her tight. Miyuki's birthmark started to glow, just barely. Alec floated above them, his katana only inches from stabbing them. He tried forcing his katana down, confused. Yuu opened one eye, then both. "What the hell?" Alec muttered, looking around. His feet weren't touching the ground. He tried to push the katana again. Yuu's arms loosened as he realized what was going on. "Suetsukata. . ." he muttered, looking at her neck. Miyuki looked up, tears streaming from her eyes. "W-What's going on?" she asked Yuu. Yuu dropped his jacket, then tore his shirt off. He turned his back to her. "Is it glowing?" he asked. There was a black mark on his back, and it was glowing. It wound around his shoulder blades, down his spine, then flowed around his waist. "Yes. . ." Miyuki said, inspecting her own birthmark. "Why?" she asked. "We must've made a temporary contract." Yuu muttered to himself, pulling his shirt back on and tightening his jacket around himself. "Well, Alec. Let's do this properly now." Yuu said, running his tongue over his lips.

Volume 1, Chapter 1

Shiina Miyuki skipped down the street, the rainclouds rumbling. "God, don't storm..." she thought, thinking of how it would ruin her hair. " 'Scuze me, young miss, do you have any money to spare? Even a little would be a great help, and I'd owe you a superb debt..." a homeless man said, looking miserable, but hope in his eyes. "Sorry. I'm broke." Miyuki said sympathetically. She looked concerned, worried. "Bless you anyways, young miss. It was nice of you to consider it." he said kindly, shivering. Rain started to fall as Miyuki walked away. Old man. What a joke. Sure, she'd give him some of HER hard-earned money! As if. She jingled her cash in her hand, then purchased takoyaki. "Mmmm..." she said, swallowing the warm treat. She propped her umbrella up and started walking. She popped another mouthful of takoyaki into her mouth and examined the clouds. Why was it always so rainy here? A car slowed down next to her and the window rolled down. Miyuki said automatically, "No matter how pretty you think I am, I'm not going with you." She ran off before the men could reply. "WHAT?" one of them said, calling her a nasty name. "Little witch. Full of herself, eh?" another snapped. "Don't worry. We'll get even. Remember? We're supposed to kill her." the one driving said. "When I saw her, I thought it would be a pity to kill something so cute. Now that she's opened her mouth, I take it back." another muttered. They chuckled, rolling the window up and driving off.

Miyuki wrapped the bathrobe around herself, putting her hair up in a towel. Ah, hot showers always made her feel better. She stuck some pocky in her mouth and exited the steamy bathroom. Her house was large, windowed, expensive. She lived alone, inheriting her parents' fortune when they died in a car crash. Sounds suspicious, but Miyuki was never planning on inheriting the money, anyways, so she had no motive. She flopped down on the couch and flicked the TV on. Once again, nothing on. "Ugyuu... I'm so bored." she muttered, licking her chocolatey fingers. She entered her room, locked the door (though no one else lived there, this was a habit), and let her bathrobe fall. In the mirror, she saw the strange birthmark she'd been born with. It was red, however, and on her collarbone. She touched it, wondering why she got it. It slithered all the way across her neck from its resting point at her collarbone and then down her abdomen, resting just above her waist. Okay, this was definitely weird for a birthmark. It was huge. Almost her whole front body. But she had this for years, ever since she was small. Just then, the bell rang, meaning someone was at her door. She threw on some clothes and trotted down the stairs. "Coming," she called, opening the front door. Her breath hitched as her eyes fell upon the man that stood there. He stood tall, but lean—like a cat, almost —and he carried himself with the slinky grace like that of a model. He had piercing red eyes that were currently staring down at her. His hair was white, wild. She shivered. He was utterly delicious. "Humm, hey." he said for the fifth time. His voice made her shiver. "Wha? Oh, sorry! Yes? What is it?" Miyuki asked. "Shiina-san?" he asked. "Yes, that's me." she quipped, smiling. "Ah, then I need you to come with me." he said, taking her hand and leading her away. "Whoa, whoa, whoa. Why?" she asked, pulling her hand away. "Who are you?" she demanded, crossing her arms. ". . .Can't tell ya." he said, looking bored. "What?! Well then, get away from my house or I'm calling the cops!" she snapped, going back inside. As she was closing the door, he pushed himself in, and clamped his hand over her mouth. He slammed the door shut and locked it. She was screaming through his hands, struggling to get away. "Shut it." he commanded, throwing her to the floor. He sat on top of her and pulled her shirt down to her collarbone. "Ah. Suetsukata." he said, getting up. She covered her chest and snapped, "WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU TRYING TO PULL, YOU LECHER!?!" He looked at her, calm, and flipped the tail of his jacket back. "Stand." he said. Miyuki stood alright, but then she heard a window break in the next room.

The man stiffened, and he grabbed Miyuki's hand and pulled her to the ground. She was about to scream, but he silenced her. "Listen carefully. When your sixteenth birthday comes, the world will end. Everyone will die. I'm going to kill you so that never happens. However, THOSE guys will kill you PAINFULLY, while I'd do it painlessly. And I'll even ask them to Reanimate your body." he whispered sharply, holding her close, listening to the voices yell for the girl. Tears were now in Miyuki's eyes. What kind of prank was this? She shot up, nearly knocking the man over while doing so. "LEAVE ME ALONE!! I DON'T WANT TO DIE!!" she screamed, running for the door. She saw it was raining and grabbed her jacket out of habit, only worried about getting away. "Moro—" the man started, before she slammed her door shut and ran out into the rain, barefoot, light clothes, light jacket. Immediately she was cold. And it was pouring. She heard gunshots and screamed, wanting to just stop running and hide. She pulled out her phone and shakily dialed for help. "Moshi moshi, what's your emergency?" a voice asked. "There's a group of men trying to kill me—" Miyuki shrieked, before a gunshot whizzed past her head and nabbed her phone. She dropped the now crushed phone, her hand bleeding, and let out another scream. There was a scream from back at her house, and she had a split second to consider that she might have caused the white-haired man's death. But it was out of her mind as she started running again, faster then ever. Of course, she had to slow down. She was now far away from her house, but her lungs were burning. Panting, she came to a stop and collapsed in the street. She took in big gulps of air, the rain pelting her body. "Miyuki! What are you doing?!" Takashima's voice said as he rushed over with an umbrella. "M-men...in my hou-house...trying...trying to kill...me...!!!" she breathed, out of air. Takashima's face got even paler. "Get up, come with me! We'll call the police." he said, helping her up. "Hold it." came a familiar voice. Miyuki pressed against Takashima and whispered, "Help me!!" Takashima examined the man walking towards them. His white hair dangled to his shoulders, pressed to his face, soaked. "Is she yours?" he asked Takashima, stopping a few feet from them. The man's eyes trailed from Takashima to Miyuki, shivering from the cold and fear. "My, my." he said simply, getting up in Takashima's face. Takashima was taller, but there was an edgy look in the guy's eyes that made Takashima shrink back. "Well, she's mine now." he said, yanking Miyuki's arm. It took Takashima by surprise, and he reached out for Miyuki again. By now, though, they were in the air. "H-how can you jump so high?!" Miyuki shrieked, thrashing at him. "I will drop you." he said angrily, holding her away from him in a futile effort to avoid her thrashing hands. "TAKASHIMMMMAAAAA!!!" she screamed, watching Takashima shrink away the higher they got.

"Stop crying." the male commanded for the fifth time. Miyuki was in the back of a truck, sobbing. "Tch. Shut up! God, I can't concentrate! Now how do you drive a truck. . .?" he snapped, frustrated, before he started it. "Oh. That was easy." he commented, tapping his chin. "You don't know how to drive?" Miyuki asked, fear settling coldly in her stomach. There were a lot of big and heavy things in the back here, and hellish driving would be sure to topple them over and onto Miyuki. "Not a clue. Here we go." he said simply, shifting the truck into 'Drive' and speeding off. Shrieking, Miyuki clung to the bars in front of her. "Where are you taking me?!" she snapped, shutting her eyes tight. "Hum." he said simply, as if he didn't know. "At least tell me your name." she pressed. "Stalker." he said, pursing his lips. She wanted to kill this guy. "How'd you survive all those gunshots anyway?" she asked. "WHY are you asking all these questions?" he fired back. "I'M BEING KIDNAPPED. You could at least answer my questions!!" she said, tears rolling down her cheeks. He was silent, then braked suddenly. Miyuki shrieked, waiting for a crunch. Luckily, nothing toppled. "Where are you going?" she asked as he got out, opening the side doors that lead to the back. She scooted away from him, but he grabbed her wrist and dragged her out. He pointed and said, "Food." Miyuki paused, crying, looking at a small restaurant in the direction he was pointing. "I'm not hungry," she snapped, swiveling away. Her stomach growled at that exact moment though. ". . .Maybe a water." she said, turning red. "You're weird." he commented, throwing her in front of him and pushing her. "Walk by yourself. Unless you want to be even more embarrassed." he said. "Hmph. You'd only embarrass yourself!" she said snidely, not knowing what he would do. He sighed. "Alright. C'mere..."

He slammed his foot against the doors to open them, and walked in, looking bored. Everyone hushed. He would seem pretty normal if he didn't have a thrashing girl in his arms. She was thrown over his shoulder, beating on his back, kicking his front. He didn't even flinch though, and dropped her when he reached the counter. He kneeled by her and said,"Order." She scooted away, but got up. "Why are you going this far?" she snapped. He just looked at her, to the menu, her, then back to the menu. Sighing, she decided on a plan. She would order a LOT so when he had to pay, he'd be surprised, flustered, and she could make a run for it as he tried to figure things out. Ditch him and take the truck and speed off towards happiness. So she ordered quite a bit. "W-wow, can you eat all that?" the cashier asked politely. "I assure you I can. And if I can't finish it, he can." Miyuki said, jerking her thumb at the male. "Uhm, okay, and for you sir?" the cashier asked. He stood up and glanced at Miyuki. She was about to scoot away again, but he grabbed her wrist. She listened carefully to his order, and her stomach sank. He had ordered twice as much as she did. He must be LOADED, not a care in the world with all his money. He yanked on her arm and pulled her towards the table, sitting down and kicking his feet up. "Will you tell me your name now. . .?" Miyuki asked, wincing. Her wrist hurt now. "Yuu." he said simply. "Yuu? That's a surprisingly cute name for such a mean guy." Miyuki said, scoffing. "You're not the first that said that." he responded, looking off.   "How old are you?" she went on. "Eighteen." he answered, then it struck her. He would answer everything. . .
"And where do you come from?" Miyuki asked, enjoying this.
"I don't know. Well, besides my company."
"Why do you want to kill me?"
"You'll cause the end of the Earth."
"How?"
"I don't know."
Okay, it was a good run, but he either didn't know or didn't want to answer. "Ah... My sweater's got a hole..." she said absently, looking down at her shoulder. "Why am I worrying (Clink) about this when I'm going to die? ...Wait, 'clink'?" she thought, looking over at what caused the sound. Yuu was holding a sewing kit, staring at her with solemn eyes. "And WHY do you carry that around?" Miyuki asked. "If I get cut, my clothes get cut. I heal, my clothes stay torn." he answered, throwing it at her. She caught it. "Wait, ME sew it?! I've never sewed once in my life! Sewing is the work of a poor man or something!" she snapped. He said nothing, just looked off. She growled, but started to do the best she could. "Aha!" she declared, showing him. It was pretty unnoticeable. "Hm." he said, looking away. "Well? What do you think? Am I good or am I good?" she asked. "Honestly, you should've turned it inside out. It would look more like a seam then a bulge if you had done it inside out." he said. She dropped her fork, surprised. "Be quiet, or people will look over and see your sucky sewing." he said, amusement in his voice. "Why you--!!"

"Ah, we sure spent a lot, didn't we?" he asked her cheerfully as they exited the establishment. Miyuki was too shocked to speak. As soon as they were ready for the bill, he swiped her wallet and paid with every last cent she had. "I hate you. . .Where are we going?" she asked. ". . .Sono Gakuen. . ." Yuu said, waving her off. "Uh-huh. . . Now, when you Reanimate my body, will I come back to life?" she asked hopefully. "No. Your body will just be able to move and do my bidding." he said, licking his fingers. "Well, that sounded dirty. Why—" she started, before he silenced her. He leaned closer to the truck. "It's ticking." he said finally, grabbing her arm roughly and leading her away. "O-ow, that hurts! Let go!" she snapped, before he picked up the pace. Behind them, a large explosion was heard, the force almost sending them forward. Screams were heard. "We should go back! There are people hurt!" she said, struggling. "And?" he asked, throwing her in front of him again. "AND?! And WHAT?! They are hurt!" she cried. "You're going to DIE, and you're worried about other people. What, being kidnapped makes you see that they way you were living, arrogant and shallow, was wrong? Hmm?" Yuu said coldly. Miyuki felt tears start. "No! If I'm going to die, then I'm dragging the world with me." Miyuki shrieked. "I won't let that happen." Yuu said, throwing her over his shoulder. "Hand that over." a voice came. Yuu turned slowly. "Hand what over?" he asked politely. "The girl." a man said, wielding a very large gun. They were surrounded by men now, and a girl floated above them. "What? This?" Yuu asked, gesturing to Miyuki. "No, I'm afraid this is mine." he went on in mock sympathy. "Let me go." Miyuki hissed. "Shut it." Yuu hissed back. "Alright, gentlemen! Aim! ♥" the girl said, pointing at Miyuki and Yuu. "Fire! ♥" she squealed, turning in air. A stream of bullets were released from each gun, but Yuu was already in the air. He landed on a roof and dropped Miyuki. "You try to run again and I'll kill you." he snapped, jumping back down. Miyuki inched over to watch. Yuu pulled out a gun himself, a way-too-large-to-be-a-handgun-but-is gun. "After you," he said politely. Several started firing again. Screams were heard, and Yuu was distracted. One grazed his arm, and he snapped back to the fight. He was behind one faster then he could blink, slamming his gun into his head. And again, faster yet, behind another. They fired into the man, missing Yuu. "Wow, so sad." Yuu said, crossing himself. The men clicked their tongues. "Wait, boys! You can't get him with normal bullets." the girl said, pouting. "What? You're giving up? That wasn't even an adrenaline rush." Yuu said, unamused. "Shut your mouth! Gentlemen, go get the girl! I'll deal with him." she said, rolling her shoulders. Yuu's eyes narrowed.

"Are you ready, Ryou-kun?" the girl asked. "As always, Mika." Yuu answered. Oh-kay, apparently they knew each other. Miyuki watched in fascination as the girl pulled a scythe from thin air. Yuu tapped his gun twice, and a blade shot out of the barrel. Ah, not a gun. Just then, someone grabbed her foot. "Eh?" she said, turning. "Come here, girly." the man said, pulling her closer. "YUU!!!" Miyuki shrieked, then realized Yuu was gonna kill her anyways, so just shut it. Yuu glanced at her, and said,"Ugh." Miyuki blinked. "'Ugh'? Just 'Ugh'? No 'I'll save you Miyuki' or encouraging words?!" Miyuki snapped. "Shut UP. I'm busy here!" Yuu hissed. "Doing WHAT? Staring at some skimpy girl who has a scythe?!" Miyuki asked. "Hey! I'm not skimpy. All the female executives wear this!" Mika said defensively. Yuu clicked his tongue and launched himself at the girl. His blade slammed into her scythe as she blocked, and soon they were rapidly slashing at each other. "Physical attacks won't work, Ryou-kun!" Mika cheered. "Thanks for the tip." Yuu said, slashing the air. From the slash, black feathers shot out and surrounded her. "Oh, is this new? I've never seen it before. What's it do—" Mika started, before a feather floated past her shoulder. She winced, her shoulder slicing in half. Her arm fell to the ground. Miyuki closed her eyes, looking away. "That." Yuu said. "It'll wear off, don't worry. But for now, you're stuck. I'll be taking that girl back now." Yuu said, appearing before Miyuki. He scooped her up and jumped into the air. "Bye, Mika! It was fun." he said, and she growled. "WAIT, RYOU-KUN!!!" she screamed, slashing at the feathers with her scythe to no avail. "And now, Miyuki, we carry onward." he said, sighing. ". . .Wow. My Hero." Miyuki said sarcastically.