&& it could have been innocent &&

[.&&. Snowsong.]

&& Iτ Could Hαvє Bєєn Innocєnτ &&
"I told you, over and over again..."

---------------------------------

chαpτєя lisτ

[00] [01] [02] [03] [04] [05] [06] [07] [08] [09] [10] [11]

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pяologuє

“… Look. Enkatsu...,” Ryoushi muttered tentatively. He fumbled with his fingers somewhat, refraining from biting his lip. He wasn’t sure he wanted to tell her… But.. things were just.. so different now. The end seemed to be drawing nearer faster than he would like.

“.. What is it, Ryoushi?” It sounded as if she knew something he didn’t know – or perhaps she knew what he was prepared to say. Whatever made her tone like that, it made him hesitate. She seemed shaken, down, in wretched condition. He slowly began to see that her irritation was growing, only because she wanted to cover up her pain… He took a moment to examine her…

“GET ON WITH IT!” Her shout made him jump, and the look in her emeralds seemed to say she was sorry – but her lips refused to let her say anything more. A knot tied in his stomach, and for a moment, he felt as if he couldn’t say it… But the words still came.

“Enkatsu.. I really think..,” he subconsciously gulped and took a deep breath. “I told you, over and over again… It could have been innocent – if every one of us had never been born.”

---------------------------------

about the academy

Hitoshireza Kasumi Academy, Kasumi Academy for short, is owned by a Japanese man, Sokkenai Burakku. He knows of the clashing species, and made an academy in hopes of allowing all to co-exist like typical humans would; the only flaw, is that he is not human himself, thus allowing him to gather all the species quite easily. But, despite that, he is strictly respected, with formidable records and enforced rules. Despite that, however, he is seen as a noble and wise man, with a gentle but firm heart, that leads this academy.

It means Hidden Mist, because it seemed a reasonable name; something typical, and gentle, barely bothersome unless really paid mind to. But the other species were kept from knowing that there was more than just them and humans. Humans believed everyone was human; vampires saw only themselves, humans, and werewolves as those that existed; angels saw only themselves, humans, and demons as those that existed. Everyone was certain to have a secret, for they were forced to keep their species secret from those that were not to know of them; if they were not enemies by mother nature, they were not to be revealed to each other.

From grades seven to twelve and over, it has many dorms, and many students. They all must co-exist, even with their lives, shrouded in mystery and uncertainty. It is an academy, a school, and they are here to learn, and spend their 'teenage' and 'young adult' lives here, gaining experience for the real world.

[/size]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chαpτєя onє; α nєω yєαя

The morning sunlight was dazzling, almost treacherous to the eye. Who needed an alarm clock when you had the glaring sun to create a red screen of sight, blocking out the black? You knew you were awake after that, so there was no need for a call or alarm. Enkatsu had grown used to it, ever since she was twelve; and now, she was eighteen. But off of that, and onto the morning that had arrived, with birds beginning to wake and call.

Stretching as she cracked open her emeralds, Enkatsu released a minuscule yawn. "First day of Senior Year..," she muttered, making her way to the bathroom. Stretching again, she began to prepare for school, brushing her long, flowing brown hair before she made her way to the living room. She would have to drive to school and get to her dorm, before being able to go into school again; she was accustomed to this as well. Swiftly, she rushed around, grabbing all that she needed and putting on some lip gloss and eyeliner. Then, she bursted through the door, locking it behind her, and getting into her car. Starting it, she glanced into the small mirror, checking herself for anything she needed to fix. And then she was off.

Enkatsu always thought about who she would meet, and what their reactions would be to her, every time she drove for the first day of school years. Her Asian blood was from her mother, and her eyes were from her father; many had claimed she wore contacts, or that she dyed her hair. It was amusing to watch them, and it was more enjoyable when her lover, Ryoushi, would go and verify that she did not alter her natural appearance further than minor make up.

------------------------------------

Upon reaching the school, Enkatsu allowed a smile to play at her lips. It was good to see the large buildings again, to smell the scents of its wondrous gardens; it was pleasant to hear those voices, excited and/ or disappointed. With her mood immediately enlightened, she parked the car and made her swift way to the gates, which were wide open and about eight feet high. With her distinctive walk, almost like a ballerina's, she bounded over to her group of friends.

They were all talking: Ryoushi, his silver emo style hair calmer than the usual emo guys', his silver eyes dazzling as usual; Sora, yapping and her pretty black hair in a bun, her chocolate brown eyes sparkling with life; Hamako, her seal hair in pigtails, her bright hazel eyes, with the helpt of contacts, almost dancing with life; and Yuichi, his blue-streaked, black hair long enough to his chin, his black eyes lively as he too yapped.

Grinning, Enkatsu dashed over to them. "Hey, guys! Konnichiwa!"

They all turned, seemingly lost at first. But then, they grinned as well, almost jogging over to her and greeting her, welcoming her back and shooting up gossip again. Ah, just like the past three years; just the five of them. And it wasn't long before the school bell rang, and everyone had to go into the school. Unlike many others, those who had been here before knew they should expect a greeting breakfast.

------------------------------------

The breakfast was crowded, almost with no room, since the tables had been scooted somewhat for the faculty table. It was so loud, even one with bad hearing would have their eardrums battered. Everything seemed decorated, and already, the chairwoman, Masumi Burakku, was standing, seeming prepared to make announcements and greetings; her husband and original founder of Hitoshirezu Kasumi Academy - Kasumi Academy for short - was beside her. They seemed complete opposites! Sokkenai Burakku seemed almost uninviting, while Masumi seemed to be a magnet for everyone, and a sprinkler of comfort.

Enkastsu and her group hastily took seats, happily chatting as they glanced around at the food they would take after the speech. It was so boomingly loud, it was amazing they could hear each other as they continuously turned their heads and spoke. And if that was amazing, then it was downright awesome that they could shut up in five seconds at the sound of two claps from Sokkenai.

Everyone's eyes went to the faculty table, examining the new and old faces - before finally resting upon the chairwoman and former chairman. A soft smile embraced Masumi's lips, and she got to her feet. Her long, blond hair was in long, slightly braided pigtails, and her sapphires were beautifully lively. "Welcome to Kasumi Academy, newcomers; and welcome back, to the students of previous years," she said, her voice beautiful and angelic. Her tone was so inviting, it wasn't difficult to believe she already had two very successful children. "I am proud to announce that the school is making great progress, and we are on our way to becoming one of the top, gifted schools!"

She gave a small bow, before glancing up again, her eyes scanning the entire room. "I see you are eager to eat and begin the year; so, I shall silence myself; enjoy!" And with that, she sat down. Everything grew loud again, and everyone dug in.

[/blockquote]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chαpτєя τωo; cєяταin τєnsion

Enkatsu and Ryoushi had been together, almost flawlessly, for the past two and a half years. Once their eyes met, emerald and silver, they began to fall in love with one another. And to think they had met because their friends, Hamako and Yuichi, had become the best of friends and eventually got together. Enkatsu, after a year and a half, believed that their love was true, both her friends' and hers. But Ryoushi, no matter how muh he wanted to believe that, knew that there was a high possibility that they could both perish from their love.

He had constantly told her, "I love you, but we can't last forever. I'm putting your life at risk." At first, he had hope, for she thought about it. But as the weeks passed, she grew to believe that it was something so minor, there was no need to worry about it. Though Ryoushi loved her for that, he hated himself for it; he was risking the love of his life. It just couldn't be true love! Yet, she always managed to reassure him.

"Don't worry, Ryoushi. It is true love. I promise you, it is." Her gentle touch, her beauty.. and her angelic voice; they had all captivated him, all to the point where he could not force himself to persuade her that their love was treacherous.

Not to mention, things were worse when Sora was dumped by her boyfriend, whom she had been with for two months before Hamako and Yuichi got together, and three months after they got together. She truly loved him, and she knew he was a vampire, more vampiric than herself. But Ryoushi only thought they were different forms of demons, for he himself was a demon. If a relationship between two of the same species would not work out, then surely, it would not work out between predator and prey?

But, Enkatsu and the other girls were constantly complaining on how much of an ass he was. Quite frankly, though, Yuichi and Ryoushi had to agree; Henkan was being much ruder and more selfish than he had been a year and a half ago. And Ryoushi knew extremely well that he too was a demon - the same type of demon he was. And, so far, tension had been rising between them...

-----------------------------------------

[ A few days had already passed since the beginning of the school year. ]

"Ryoushi! Ryoushi!"

"What is it, Sora?" Without looking up from his book, Ryoushi listened to her almost clumsy approach. He guessed that she must have run for quite a while, across the school grounds; after all, once she reached him, her momentum was oddly easy to stop, and she was panting heavily; then again, it was actually an act. If humans saw that she wasn't tired, they would be very suspicious.

It took her a moment to gather herself, before she grabbed for his book. However, he knew her intention and immediately placed the bookmark in, using only a split second's time. Then, with a light snap, he closed the book, using another split second's time, an almost amused look on his porcelain face as Sora pouted for a second. "You're no fun anymore!" But, she swiftly gathered herself. "Anyway; it's Yuichi and Henkan; I think they're going to have a brawl!" Immediately, Ryoushi's playfulness dissipated; he was on his feet in not even a second.

"Come on!" He roughly grasped Sora, yanking her along with him, as he broke into a dash. Recently, Henkan had seemed to have the urge to provoke him and the group, which was minor. But now, attempting to start a brawl with his best friend? That was definitely not acceptable.

The grounds were large, but Ryoushi had no intention on looking like a human. It was only when he reached the crowd surrounding the two masculines did he abruptly halt, making certain he held onto Sora so that she would not run into anything or anyone. His silver eyes were furious, glinting with a sudden, growing dislike as he watched the two males: to his right, Yuichi was standing, his black eyes menacing as his blue streaked, ebony hair seeming wilder than usual; and to his left, Henkan stood, his brown, tan streaked hair in a style almost like emo, and his hazel eyes were dazzling - but they showed a very dislikeable hint of pride and cockiness.

"What, scared of striking me?" Henkan may have had a charming voice, but one could easily hate it, with the tone he used at the moment. His arms were folding, showing that he was highly confident in himself, and not worrying about his currently clean record. Hm, he was certainly going to ruin that record now, and Ryoushi knew he would lose that clean record he had kept over the years as well.

Slightly squeezing Sora's arm for a bit was a signal that he wanted to participate. Without waiting for her reply, he stepped through the crowd, and right next to Yuichi. "Look, Henkan; I thought you were just going through a bad time in life, but apparently, you want to cause trouble like the bastard you became." He could feel Yuichi's stunned look from behind him, and he knew that, even though Yuichi was a human, he was fully aware that something was different about him.

Henkan seemed unfazed; rather, he seemed amused even further. "Then fight me, Ryoushi. Fight me, descendant of Sumizome!" A sneer plastered itself upon his lips, and he shifted into a fighting position. "You may be the descendant of one of the strongest people in the world, but I am as well, being descendant of Assaris.hitera!" His sneer grew as Ryoushi clenched his teeth together. "I see I spoke too much," he stated mockingly.

"Ryoushi, Henkan, stop!" It was clear that her voice caused surprise to strike them. With a shock on their expression, they turned sharply, watching as Enkatsu rushed over to them. "Baka, baka!" she shouted, her emeralds flaring with an elegant anger.

Immediately, Ryoushi took a step back, his body relaxing somewhat to prevent any fighting position. Glaring at Henkan, he turned, patting Yuichi on the back and persuading him to leave. The crowd dispersed, and Ryoushi could feel those hazel eyes burning into his back; he could easily imagine Henkan turning away, sneering - and he had once been one of the best gentlemen the schools had ever known. Sighing, Ryoushi ignored it, and the group began to gather, all five of them now present.

When everyone was gone, Hamako began to rant with Sora that they should plot a way to take down Henkan.

"He may be crazily handsome, but he doesn't deserve the attention he gets! It's not negative enough!" Hamako was saying, quite loudly.

"Hai! We need for him to show his true colors, because I'm sure he has more violence in him than he let show today!" Sora was gesticulating almost roughly as she emphasized how much she disliked him.

Enkatsu snickered. "Oh, come on, Sora. You used to go out with him." That shut her up.

Ryoushi sighed, glancing at Yuichi. Nodding, Yuichi spoke up, his voice dazzling and flowing, though he did not like to speak since he claimed his voice was that of a singer. "Well, Sora used to like him when he wasn't such an ass. He was a nice guy with a clean record, great grades, and he was popular... And he was a romantic guy, from what you said, Sora."

She began to blush, hiding behind Hamako a second later. However, as suddenly as she blushed, it disappeared, and she held herself proudly as she made her way over to Yuichi. "Something changed in him, so he dumped me!"

"It's amazing he still has a clean record," Ryoushi burst in. "But, we can't ruin our own; just let him do what he likes. It'll catch up with him in the end."

"You almost broke your clean record!" Sora burst in.

"Yeah, but he did that to keep Yuichi's safe. I mean, Yuichi already got into three fights throughout his life," Enkatsu injected, slightly slapping Yuichi on the back.

"Haha, Enkatsu; you got into one fight in your life. I still remember it!" Sora teased, while Hamako giggled.

"Come on; let's forget about this," Ryoushi stated, grabbing Enkatsu gently around the shoulders. Pulling her closer to his side, he began to make his way to the school building. "Come on, second half of school is beginning!"

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chαpτєя τhяєє; sєcяєτs of τhє dαmnєd

In a hut, slightly large but engulfed in shadows, there was a candle. A candle with a flame already lit, casting flickering shadows upon the walls. And since the candle's light was so weak, there seemed only a minuscule, dim spot of light in the midsts of the darkness within the hut. But, even ith the eerie scenery, in which any normal human would not be able to see anything, a handsome and charming, but almost grim voice sounded; "You summoned me, Father?"

The question was greeted by an ominous silence, though it lasted for only a moment. A lighter shadow shfited somewhat, and soft, lavender eyes slowly opened. Then, there was a soft, dark chuckle. "Welcome home.." It wasn't exactly a welcoming tone; rather, it seemed almost corrupted - but the voice was handsome enough to infatuate almost any human. "Come, Son.." There was a flash, and pallid coloring shaped up a smile - a mysterious and unique smile.

It would have seemed that the boy would have hesitated, frightened. But, as he blinked his stunning hazel eyes, he stepped into the darkness - and his eyes seemed to become illuminated, just as the soul's whom resided in that very hut. He paused at the doorway, the curtain shifting back to block out any light, and one could easily be convinced that this was a lair of darkness, rather than a house for light. The candlelight seemed to flicker brighter for a moment, enlightening the boy's ace, but barely. However, in that second, one could see that his face was porcelain, and it held a gravely serious expression. "Why have you called me here?"

"Now, now.. be patient.. Come closer, my son.." The man in the darkness smiled again, dazzling as usual. "Come, and do not be concerned." He paused, before his smile slightly grew; the boy had taken a step closer, though it was almost as if he was annoyed. "Do not be upset with your father.. Henkan."

The boy slightly sighed, closing his hazel hues. "Get it over with, and if you must call me by my name rather than 'Son,' I may as well call you Assaris.hitera, rather than 'Father.'" Walking over, almost silently, to the shadowed figure of his father, Henkan seated himself down. "Now, what is it?"

".. I want to tell you another bit of information that Sokkenai knows. Do not reveal it to anyone, until you can promise me that his academy shall go into chaos at least a day after you reveal this secret." Just then, the shadowed figure began to glow, and crystal white wings seemed to grow steadily from the Assaris.hitera's back as he began to stand. Those angelic wings slowly folded themselves somewhat, drawing closer to his back so they would not hit the walls nor ceiling.

That was Henkan's cue to do the same; so, he stood up, and angel's wings seeped out from his back as well. Both clad in white, they exited through a sudden opening in the back; that opening closed as soon as their last feathers were through the gap, and they both ascended into the air, certain that they had gone unnoticed in the outskirts.

It was a beautiful sight, and Henkan would have smiled as he flew - if only it wasn't for his father, gliding in front of him, leading him to that familiar spot in the large forest, where secrets were safe from being overheard. Once they landed, they walked into the cave, which was in the deepest part of the forest. Once inside, they faced each other, and Assaris.hitera placed a hand on his son's head, almost like a pat.

"Now, onto what I wanted to tell you," he said in a whisper, flicking his pure white hair aside; it was not white from age, since he was summoned with that stunning color of hair. "You see, Henkan - you are a victim of false conclusions." In reaction to that, Henkan clenched his fists quite tight, and the same went for his teeth - but he remained silent, as he learned it was best to do so when his father was telling him things.

Smirking, and with almost a proud glint in his eye, Assaris.hitera continued, "Just like the humans don't know that we are inhuman, that we are angels who last for eternity unless demolished, you do not know that there are more than demons, humans, and angels in this world. You know Ryoushi is a demon, but you do not know that Hamako and Yuichi are vampires. Demons and angels are rare - very rare. In fact we and Masumi make up almost half of the angels that exist in this world, while Ryoushi, Sumizome, and Sokkenai make up almost half of the demons that exist in this world."

Immediately, Henkan was very tense, and he clenched his fists even tighter. Already, he knew that angels were to protect humans from demons, and kill the humans when their time of death came.. But he also knew that, if anyone, even himself, knew too much, it was like a flag, saying, 'Kill me!' Sora grew too close to knowing, and he had to dump her.. Yet, he still loved her - he just couldn't afford to show his feelings for her anymore, to shove her away from their secrets.. And Enkatsu - he attempted to appear fond of her, because he needed Ryoushi to confront him alone. He didn't want the duty of ridding of Sora and Enkatsu. Slightly biting his lip, he glanced down, his brown and tan hair shadowing his eyes; he received everything from his mother, except for his height and personality - but he knew that this was far from what Assaris.hitera would do.

Hell, Assaris.hitera was chuckling slightly. "I sense the pain in your atmosphere.. But do this, to pur-"

"Enough, Assaris.hitera."

Immediately, father and son gathered themselves, regaining their composure as they glanced at the entrance. That cold, hard voice was difficult to not recognize; easily enrapturing, but menacing.

Hiding his dissatisfaction, Assaris.hitera pulled on an emotionless exterior. "Well, I never expected you here, Sokkenai."

".. Indeed. But even I didn't expect myself to love Masumi, an angel." The demon took a step further into the cave, his pale crimsons flashing. But they were nothing like they had been in the older days, when he knew no care, when he never cared about any angel including Masumi; back then, those eyes seemed alive, the shades of red and at times lavender shifting throughout. But now, they were just pale crimsons.

"I see your eyes haven't returned to that soul thirsty state. Sumizome, if I remember correctly, still has those eyes; sad of you to abandon your true nature for an angel.." The angel was not attempting to provoke his old companion, but rather making it sound casual, as, in the days when the trio formed a bond to create the school, they had spoken of many things, including this. The trio knew that, back then, Assaris.hitera had been tolerant of the impurity of the world. But, just like his son had after him, he changed.

"I shall leave, Father.. Sokkenai," Henkan almost hastily said once he escaped his thoughts. Slightly bowing, he turned and flew off, swiftly becoming a small spot in the sky.

Sokkenai watched him through the corner of his eye, before glancing back at his old, angel companion. "Even Sumizome did not betray me and tell his son, Ryoushi about this. If it is to slip, the entire academy, then quite possibly the world eventually, would know and hunt us down. And if it is to slip that both of those boys are your sons, rather than descendants, and that I am not Sokkenai the eighth, and that Masumi is not Masumi the eighth..." There was an ominous flash, his facial expression grim and cold - almost heartless, but then he turned away. "I feel that I would regret this.. But. Promise me, you will not let that slip. You've broken one promise, released one secret, but I shall remain trusting you until, not unless, something forces me to do otherwise."

As the demonic chairman waited for an answer, Assaris.hitera kept a straight face - but inside, he was chuckling. No one but his son knew about his plans, not even those of his level; the greatest demon, Sumizome, and the greatest torn demon, Sokkenai, knew nothing of his plans.

Changing his tone and expression to that of the past, when the trio had gotten over their differences and formed the trio, he stated, "As you wish."

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chαpτєя fouя; so mαny τяoubles

So, after little over a couple of weeks of the school year, homework was already piling up. Then again, it was a school for the gifted, and it also had rewards for whoever did the best. However, it was still a lot of work, no matter what, especially when almost everyone had other extracurriculum tasks to take care of. Such undramatic events, and they were easily capable of boring you.

Yawning, Enkatsu laid her head on the desk; the lamp light was too bright, so she had to push it to the corner of the desk. "Sora.. When is Hamako coming back...?" she muttered, tapping the worksheets she had to do for Science.

"I dunno, Enkatsu. I think she'll be back in a few; she probably 'ran into' Yuichi, anyway." She chuckled, a gleam in her pretty brown eyes. On the computer, there were instant messenging windows - at least three of them - and she was having some fun playing a game that Enkatsu didn't recognize. Boy, did Sora's fingers dance when they typed, oh so swiftly; it almost made her envious, in a friendly way, of course.

Stretching, she went over to the bed and plopped down onto her stomach. "I'mma finish homework later. You should have helped me through it; you and Hamako! You guys always finish twice as fast as I do." She pouted playfully, rolling onto her back to glance up at the ceiling. There was little light in the room, just from the computer and the lamp, so the ceiling seemed to glow, with those stars she, Sora, and Hamako bought to pretty up the place to their liking. Her smile slightly grew at the thought of leaving their mark on something.

"Whatcha thinkin' about?" Sora interrupted her thoughts.

Startled, she rolled onto her side, chuckling. "Quit making me start! Jeez, you're good at scaring people when they're thinking!" Another melodic chuckle escaped her lips, as she shifted into a sitting position.

"You know.. I think you should sneak out and see Ryoushi."

Enkatsu stared at Sora. "Say wha'? Dude, he's such a nerd, he's probably doing extra credit to the max right now." They both laughed, before she said, "Alright, so. Maybe I should go see him. But, I don't wanna sneak up on him. Not to mention, that would probably make him think I was a stalker."

Sora glanced up, thinking. After a few moments passed, Hamako came busting in, frantic. "Hey, guys! Come on, there's something going on outside; I need to get you guys out of here, c'mon!"

Immediately, Sora and Enkatsu bolted upright and hastily followed Hamako out the door and through the hallway. News of it must have gone real fast, since at least a third of the dorms had gone to see what the commotion was about. Soon enough, several of them were startled by a roar, which seemed a mix of a screech and a snarl.

Among those that froze, were Enkatsu. Hamako, seeing at least half the girls freeze, turned and shouted, "Come on! Get them away, get them out of here!" They didn't need to be told by a prefect, or even be told twice; more than half started to get the fully human girls away. The beast outside was after them, and its roar, though it sounded so menacing and malicious, had the ability to infatuate as well as petrify humans at the same time.

-----------------------------------------

Enkatsu awoke, trembling, in the nurse's office. Taking several deep breaths, panic was written all over her face. Even though it was dawn, with some light filtering through the gap in curtains, that nightmare had frightened her. Ryoushi, getting attacked by some massive, evil dog.. and there was someone else there.. and he had called Ryoushi's name; it was vaguely familiar, especially when Ryoushi shoved him away.. Slightly shaking herself, Enkatsu shifted into a sitting position. No, she had to forget the bad thoughts, until she could talk to Ryoushi for comfort.

Sighing, she glanced around, her emeralds showing hitns of fear and confusion. Why was she in here? It sent chills through her spine, two other girls in this one room. "What happened?" she whispered to herself, clutching her necklace. Ryoushi had given it to her, on their first date. It was beautiful, with the crescent moon and wings that were opposites - a crow's wing, and a dove's wing - and it always brought her comfort.

She jumped almost violently as she heard the doors open behind her; though the room was slightly compact, the footfalls echoed within the room. From the dimness of the room, it was easy to think that there was a strange, new, and handsome man approaching, but she recognized Ryoushi too easily. Smiling widely, and sighing with relief, she swung her legs to the edge of the bed, letting them almost dangle off the side. "Hey," she was surprised to hear that, despite the fact that her voice sounded cheery, it sounded exhausted. However, she shrugged it off, brightening up as she got to her feet. "So-"

"You should rest, Enkatsu. It would be a good idea to just lay down; don't worry, I'm not leaving your side today." He ran a hand through her hair, the shadows dancing onto him and keeping the light from revealing his face, but she knew for certain that concern was written all over his porcelain expression.

Her smile slightly faltered for a second. "But... what about classes?"

"They're canceled today. It was Sokkenai and Masumi's orders." Before she could frantically question the reason, he slightly raised both his hands into the air. "I don't know why; they just don't want anyone coming outside." He smiled softly, kissing her on the forehead somewhat. "So, you don't need to stress yourself."

She smiled as well, before sitting down on the bed and beckoning him to sit down beside her. He did so, and that was when her smile dissipated, and she gasped. "Ryoushi, you've got a cut going from your neck to your elbow!" She never saw it before, and she had noticed any scars he had before they got together; she never saw this one, and it even seemed fresh. Too fresh.. "What happened last night, or even just now?" She took his hand and clasped it between hers.

For a moment, surprise overrode any other emotion, and then he slightly chuckled. "A wild dog, quite large, got in last night, and I went to take care of it. It attacked me when I let my guard down." A light chuckle escaped him again.

However, Enkatsu slightly narrowed her emeralds at the injury. "No, even a large, wild dog can't do that much damage in that shape." Then, with an almost angelic ferocity in her eyes, silver met emerald, locking for a tense moment. "You're lying to me."

Ryoushi paused for a moment, his expression calmly unreadable. Then, he caressed her face, a softness in his eye. "I would never lie to you, Enkatsu," he murmured in that infatuating tone; so much like an angel, yet with a mysterious but attractive darkness behind it. His silvers were dazzling, and even without light, they seemed to glow startlingly. One would be completely stupid to not see the caring and serious expression he wore.

"I would never lie to you, Enkatsu. Never. I vowed to the moon."

She did not expect it to be so swift; his kiss was a powerful, but passionate one. It was clear, from the ferocity that radiated from him as he pressed his lips hard but carefully against hers. And it overwhelmed her, causing her to feel a drowsiness arrive. There was a feeling of concern as she closed her eyes and fell forward into his arms. "I promise I won't let you be hurt by our lives. My watch is constantly over you; it has been, ever since you loved a demon like me.. I'll always be with you." He knew it was safe to say he was a demon; safe, for she was sleeping soundly against him. She would never know his words after the kiss.

He caressed her, before laying her down. Sitting beside her on the bed, there was a split second for crimson, a very bright and live crimson, to flash through his eyes. But, after he blinked, it disappeared. "For as long as I love you, I'll do my best to keep you safe." Glancing up at the curtains, he added, "And this time.. I vow to the sky." With that, he planted a faint kiss on her forehead and watched as her rest became filled with dreams. "Pleasant dreams, my love."

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chαpτєя fivє; noτhing яighτ

There was a voice.. Whispering, murmuring, and laughing.. But not the sweet, soothing kind of laugh. One that sent chills running along one's spine. There was a dark, evil atmosphere, and whenever it felt like one was caressing her, the touch was cool; it stung, and the air gradually grew colder than winter's embrace. It wasn't right. Something was wrong; very wrong. Yet, her vision was blurry.. and there was more of a black color corrupting her sight than anything, as if she was enclosed in a dark space and staring out at the world.

She could have sworn she was shivering, her body curled up as she attempted to keep warm. Then, abruptly, something grasped her chin, jerking her cranium upwards - so that she could see those shadowed eyes. Their color was unclear, but something whispered to her that they were beautiful. And the voice that whispered incomprehensible words seemed to persuade her even more that it would be alright, that the sudden smell of warm blood was nothing to be afraid of..

Without time to think, she jerked away, staring up at the shadow as it leaned down. The darkness crept closer in, engulfing them both, and she could feel his hand once again cup her chin. Then, he smiled, speaking so clearly, "You are very dear..." He chuckled, and she grew even more petrified; she couldn't move, and it was getting difficult to breathe.. And the icy air was growing so much colder, it was beginning to sap her strength, while that man had his full strength - as if he was controlling the chill.

Was it a tear that she felt slide down her cheek? Why? She touched her cheek, anxiety rippling through her. Those were definitely tears, but tears for what..? Once again, before she could think, her body acted. Shock forced her eyes to enlarge. Her vocal chords seemed to have a mind of their own, "Who are you? What are you?"

Then, it was as if she had been shot from all angles. Pain wrapped around her, and she doubled over on the ground, crying and gasping for breath. The masculine that loomed over her seemed to chuckle; a handsome, wondrous sound, yet it brought horror to the victim's mind. "Your voice is angelic..." Her chin was cupped again, but this time, she felt no strength in her. A shrill cry punctured the night air, and with dying strength, the last thing she realized was that, the man had black eyes and crimson hair. As she felt her life leave her, she could not hear the words he had purred. "You are like an angel.. and angels fall first.."

-------------------------------------------------

Enkatsu woke with a start, and as soon as she felt something cool grasp her hand, she realized she had been screaming.

"Enkatsu, what's wrong?"

She sighed, relief slithering into her. Her tense muscles relaxed, as she glanced up into those silver eyes that she loved so much. She was fine, until she attempted to speak; surprised, she realized her voice wasn't working at the moment. Shaking her head slightly, she pressed herself against Ryoushi, a soft smile playing upon her lips.

He ran a hand through her hair, holding her close with his other arm. "Why were you crying and screaming, love?"

There was a moment's silence, where she attempted to recover her voice. Then, once she was confident that it came back, she shifted so that she was laying her head in his lap, staring up at his porcelain, gentle face. "It was just a really bad nightmare."

It was clear that Ryoushi, even if he believed it, was quite concerned. But, she didn't get it. It was just a nightmare.. Right? But, at the moment, she didn't want to ask. At least, not yet; she needed to calm down first, since she had a feeling that if she had to relive it through telling him, she wouldn't be in good enough shape for a good few days. So, to get it off her mind, her mind drifted to school. "How're things going in school? What did I miss?"

"Nothing." It seemed an idiotic response at first. She blinked, taking a moment to comprehend the tightening feeling in her stomach.

"You're playing with me."

".. No, not really."

Now, she regretted asking; she felt really worried again. "What happened now? What else happened while I was in here?" She hastily attempted to sit up, but he managed to get her to lay down again. Without giving him time to speak, after his mouth had slightly opened to speak, she blurted out, "What will happen to the school?"

He shut his mouth again. For a moment, there was silence, before he slightly chuckled. The smile that embraced his lips didn't touch his eyes, but he seemed to be attempting to keep a darker mood from arriving; so like him, and this was one of those moments where it got annoying. "Nothing happened. It's just, we got some wild dogs loose in the school, and they have a chance of being vicious and a threat to all the students." His hand reached for hers, since she had begun to gently stroke the faint scar that now made its way from his neck to his shoulder.

"Don't worry about me, love. Just get some rest." His fingers ran through her hair again, and he kissed her forehead. No one could ever sense his hesitation, as he said, "It will be taken care of."

With that, he laid her down, placing a hand carefully over her eyes. She chuckled somewhat, closing her emeralds as she whispered, "Alright. See you later."

It didn't take long for her to fall asleep, and Ryoushi knew it was because of his inhuman abilities; demons were able to drain not only the soul, but energy, with just a simple touch such as the grazing of skin against skin. She was growing more and more at risk of being permanently damaged from that, but he knew that, if she rested, it may actually help her. Sighing, he caressed her face, before turning and walking to the door. He hesitatated at the door, before leaving the room.

Down the hall, Sora, Hamako, and Yuichi were waiting for him. He could tell they were just as concerned as he was about Enkatsu.

"What's wrong with her? Will she be alright?" Hamako couldn't keep her voice from showing her concern.

Yuichi seemed reluctant to say, "She'll recover, right? It's just.. a special case where her marks take longer to heal than the average human.. Right?"

"Will it be our fault if she doesn't ma-" Sora broke off, glancing away sharply.

Ryoushi's gaze had darkened to the point where it could terrify even the most vicious serial killer. His fists clenched, as his face was contorted with anger and concern. "Don't ever suggest she won't make it. Don't ever think she won't make it." And, as suddenly as his mood had darkened, he calmed down. Placing a hand over his face, he clenched his pearls together. "Forgive me. I shouldn't have gotten angry."

"It's alright, Ryoushi. We should have known. We know how much you don't want to lose her." Hamako lifted her hand to pat him on the back somewhat. Yuichi did the same, before he abruptly glanced at an opening door.

Immediately, a growl slowly escaped Yuichi's throat. "Henkan..," he muttered that name as if it were the most disgraceful excuse for breathing.

Like all the immortals, Henkan's hearing was enhanced; there was no excuse if he did not hear his name. But he did hear it, and his hazels snapped to glare Yuichi full in the eye. However, as soon as he heard Sora's snarl, his glare faltered, especially when he glanced at her infuriated expression.

"That's why!"

For a moment, confusion flashed in his orbs. "Sora, wh-"

"That's why you broke up with me! You stopped liking me because you started to like her!"

"Who -"

She slammed one foot on the ground, finding it difficult to restrain her strength. "Don't play stupid with me, Henkan! You didn't want to go out with me anymore because you like Nagare! Of course, how could I forget?! She's been in your group for years!"

If the shock that was on Henkan's face wasn't enough, then the shock after she slapped him across the face certainly was. For a moment, he only glanced down, his eyes shadowed as he placed a hand over his hazel hues. Then, as he glanced up, there was a strange glaze over them. He pinched the bridge of his nose, before he whisked around. "Wait 'til you realize you're f.ucking wrong." And with that, he stormed off.

Sora released another growl. However, just as she was about to follow him, Ryoushi grabbed her shoulder. There was a soft smile on his lips; his usual way of keeping the mood from growing too dark. "Wait a bit, Sora. I know how much you've held in, and how much you still are, but.. you may actually be wrong. When Henkan heard you, when he looked at you.. His guard grew unstable; I could see some of his emotions. There was.. sorrow. No guilt. Just, sorrow."

For a moment, Sora gaped at him. Then, she almost pulled herself together. "No, that... Grr! I'll find out for myself what's gotten into him!"

Just as she was about to leave, Hamako blocked her way. "Wait. You should.. go calm down, clear your mi-" She broke off and gasped as Sora growled again. "S-Sora, are you alright...?"

"No! I'm not alright! I want to find out what's wrong with him! I want to find out why he's become such an ass, and why he broke up with me, and why he's feeling sad!" One could easily tell she was beginning to cry. "Forget it! Forget it, I'm - I'm..." She didn't bother to finish, whirling around and running off toward their dorm.

"Sora, wait!" But, Hamako couldn't reach a hand out in time to stop her. ".. I.. I didn't mean to make her cry.."

Yuichi grasped her shoulder. There was a look in his eyes that said, 'We know.' "Just give her some time." With that, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders; "C'mon, let's take a walk to calm you down." He glanced at Ryoushi, who nodded, meaning he didn't mind them leaving him alone. With that, the couple was off.

Ryoushi watched them, before he sighed. "Guess it's time I go talk to Sokkenai and Masumi..." And with that, he made his way through the hall, heading for the chairman and chairwoman's office.

[/blockquote]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chαpτєя six; unєxpєcτєd τєαm

"Wait until tomorrow, Ryoushi. Do not even touch the doorknob."

Hell, was Sokkenai good. He wasn't even seven feet away from the door yet. Almost chuckling to himself, Ryoushi slightly rubbed the back of his head. He knew Sokkenai was a cold person, so he needn't get on the guy's bad side. However, it was nagging him too much. After a moment of hesitation, he took a minuscule step forward. No human could have heard it, but he knew the chairman had the ability to hear even a spider crawling on its web if he tried hard enough. Ryoushi always guessed it was due to the all the battling that was done, all those years ago.

He was tense, aware that he could easily be punished for defying the second of the greatest demons in the world, short only due to his father. Yes, his father was skilled, and he had gained those traits - but he was still too young and inexperienced to be even half a match for Sokkenai. He was prepared to be thrown back at any moment - yet, nothing came. So he took another step. And another.

And he jumped as a singsong voice came to his ears. "Ryoushi, dear. Please listen to him." Soft, elegant hands clasped one of his from the side, and as he glanced beside him, Masumi was abruptly there. Her soft smile was so inviting, and her kindness radiated from her.. Really, she was a true angel, and, if she were to be included within the most powerful trio, she would fit in perfectly. She was like the female, angel version of Sokkenai when it came to power. Even if she didn't hold a powerful atmosphere, she was a force to be reckoned with. Ryoushi knew it well, from all the stories his father, Sumizome, had told him.

Chuckling nervously, he averted his silver gaze away from her. "I.. I feel that it's very important." Even if his voice was firm, it was close to wavering, seemingly asking to defy the chairman.

Actually, truth be told, he was still the chairman, but only the immortals knew that, and they had to keep it secret, since the humans could not suspect a chairman would not retire after a few decades of being chairman. Masumi had taken chairwoman position, to mask it. And they would not do anything public, so that, the year after a few more, Sokkenai could retake his position; it had been performed quite a few times before. It had been thoroughly planned out, and Ryoushi admired that. Humans were difficult to convince to believe otherwise, once something was planted firmly in their minds.

But, off of that! Ryoushi was awaiting Masumi's response; he expected to ruin her wondrous smile. Yet, it remained, and her reply shocked him even further.

It was a wink, and she gently but swiftly released his hand. Placing her right index finger at her lips, she whispered, "Tomorrow is in only a few hours, you know." Before he could even reply, she swiftly made her way into her husband's office.

He blinked, before his smile returned; a chuckle escaped him. Then, he turned away and made his way to the dorms. Just a few hours to wait.

-----------------------------------------

Upon approaching the door to Sokkenai's office, he felt a stranger atmosphere. It was as if two forces were clashing... and only a demon against an angel could cause that. Quite surprised, Ryoushi hurried to the door. Opening it, he immediately halted.

Was that weakness he saw in Henkan's eyes? Did he just see sorrow, and the pain Henkan was going through?

Gathering himself, he glared at the angel. And, in return, the barracade that protected the angel's emotions came up, and his hazels clearly sent a glare at Ryoushi. Of all people he had to find Sokkenai speaking to, it had to be him. Really, he wouldn't have minded if it was a few years ago, but.. now? It just bothered him, aplenty.

His silvers glinted in dislike, and his fists clenched. It seemed Henkan was tensed as well.

But Sokkenai broke their tense moment. "Calm it, boys. I will not tolerate any hint of desired violence within this office." Immediately, they both had to obey; there was a hint of irritation in the master's cold voice, and they both knew they didn't want to see the chairman's bad side.

Clearing his throat, the demon closed his eyes. "I told Masumi to get you both in here, at the same time. Why? Because," he didn't give them a chance to open their mouths and ask, "I wanted to talk to you, both." His pale crimsons opened again, and his dark red bangs shifted into his eyes again, as he got to his feet. Coming between Ryoushi and Henkan, he jerked them closer to each other, moving his hands to the backs of their necks to signal to them that they would immediately pay for misbehavior.

"Now," he began, his voice growing harder than before, "Enkatsu has served us well." He grabbed Ryoushi's neck, extremely lightly, when the younger demon tensed. "Put your feelings for her aside for now, Ryoushi. I need you to listen."

With effort, Ryoushi calmed down, and Sokkenai continued. "Her nightmares.. are not ordinary. She is no ordinary human; since birth, the immortal have been following her, and their presence has been tainting her in a way no ordinary human could handle." Something dark flashed in his eyes as he felt Ryoushi seemingly weaken, but he soon ignored it. "She has the ability to subconsciously know when her predator kills a victim."

Immediately, energy surged back into Ryoushi. Glancing up with a hard look in his eye, he suppressed an instinctive snarl. "What?" It was difficult to keep calm. Too difficult. "You knew there was something after Enkatsu?! Why didn't yo-"

He was cut off as Henkan grabbed his throat. "Shut up. Let Sokkenai finish."

They both glared at each other, but, inside, Ryoushi was even more confused. He could have sworn Henkan's voice cracked; what was up with the guy? What was up with everything these days?

Sokkenai pulled them apart, a harsh and icy glare on his expression. "She also has the ability to subconsciously see scenes of her loved one, when something threatens his life. All these visions are beginning to become more vast. She may eventually have abilities to see what is going on from the point of view of someone or something else, and not just through her nightmares, eventually."

"Why does he need to know?!" Ryoushi growled at Henkan, feeling anger raising within him. But it immediately disappeared when Sokkenai replied.

"Because you two are on a mission. I request it of you. Will you defy me?"

There was a moment of uneasy silence. A cold, hard silence. But then, both boys, demon and angel, said in unison, "As you command, sir."

For once, an extremely rare occasion, the faintest hint of a smile came to Sokkenai's lips. But, he soon took a step back, in which the almost unnoticeable enlightenment on his lips disappeared completely. "Good. I will call you both to my room whenever I have information to tell you." Glancing at Henkan, he added, "And I believe your father has told you some information, Henkan? Tell it to Ryoushi after I am done."

At first, it seemed as if Henkan would disobey and object; he was extremely tense. But, after a few moments, he submitted, nodding his head. Hazel hues shadowed, he muttered, "Yes, sir."

"Now." Sokkenai instantly caught their attention. "That group is my mortal enemy. They are led by a hybrid; he has the blood of demons, angels, werewolves, and vampires."

"Wait, wh-" Ryoushi broke off at a hard glance from Sokkenai. God, he really was cold, but he never really stayed this long around him. He sharply glanced away, fists clenching tighter.

"Henkan will tell you once I am done." Clearing his throat again, he continued. "They are after not only humans, but this very academy. They want to send the world into oblivion, so they can watch and enjoy themselves."

Henkan tensed, and he seemed guilty as he too glanced sharply away. Did Sokkenai know Assaris.hitera's plans? It too could bring oblivion into the world. Only the pure would survive, and nothing else will live. The pure would not die, if all went to plan. Or, so his father had said. He was still angry with his father, forcing him to put on an act in front of everyone; Sokkenai was hardly an exception, but he couldn't help it.

When Sokkenai cleared his throat, they both glanced at him. After a short pause, he said, quite harshly, "It is your continuous mission to slowly bring down that group. They are very powerful, so your fathers and I, as well as Masumi, shall do our best to attack the group head on whenever it is required. For now, I want you two to only gain information, so we may gain the upper hand. They both nodded, and then he stepped back, silent and stealthy as if to dissipate into the shadows. His hand gestured for Henkan to begin.

He hesitated at first, uncertain; fear was not clear, hidden deep inside, but Sokkenai could see hints of it. But, he did not say so, especially when the young angel turned to the young demon and began. "It's not just demons and humans and angels in this world...," a pause of hesitation, "... There are vampires and werewolves, too... Sora, Yuichi, and Hamako.. are vampires. Nagare, Gaika, Kenshiki, and Hishou are werewolves."

Shock was clearly etched upon Ryoushi's face. "And.. they don't.. know this..?" He was still almost gaping, his fists no longer clenched due to surprise.

Henkan didn't respond; he refused to, as he turned to the side. However, Sokkenai soon did. "No one but us. Now, I want you both to leave campus for a while; split routes, and gain bits of information. Do not, I repeat, do not fail. And getting caught, is considered massive failure - as is dying." His gaze scanned over them, and they nodded.

He nodded himself, gesturing that they were dismissed. As soon as they left the room, the door closed, eerily silently despite its closing speed. But, at the moment, Ryoushi and Henkan didn't care.

Ryoushi was glaring at Henkan, his fists clenched again. "We're working together, so you're going to have to tell me a lot of things you might not want you."

"Only if you cooperate," Henkan growled.

They glared at each other for a long moment, before, knowing that Sokkenai could hear them - and knowing he wanted them to signal that they were now secretly allies - they extended hands. With a reluctant and almost violent handshake, they turned. Henkan went to the dorms, and Ryoushi headed for the room Enkatsu was in at the nurse's wing.

[/blockquote]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chαpτєя sєvєn; no onє hαs τo know

School had come back, after a few more days. A few students were excused, and their roommates were to bring the assignments to them.

Sighing, Sora glanced up at the sky. Enkatsu was the one that acted the oddest out of those who had been affected by the attack. But, what did that howl belong to? Yuichi hadn't let her and Hamako past, so they didn't see anything. Sadly, Enkatsu already missed three days after classes began again. The fourth day today, and she was headed for last block; oh, how excited. Note the sarcasm.

Soon enough, Hamako met up with her, Yuichi not far behind. Plenty of laughs and smiles entered the hallways, all because of them. After all, they were the loudest out of everyone coversing. How much longer could she keep the act up? Her mind had been constantly concerned and hurt since the night she slapped Henkan; and it was all because of him she was feeling bad. And it wasn't just that she felt cheated on; he had disappeared the day after she accused him, and she hadn't seen him since. Come to think of it, he and Ryoushi disappeared at the same time..

She shrugged it off. Maybe Ryoushi was with Enkatsu more, and.. perhaps Henkan left for.. something. Something in her whispered, weeping; she wanted to believe something that meant he was fine, that he hadn't gone and gotten himself hurt. Or, that he was only leaving for a bit and coming back.. Despite her rage that night, she still loved him. Just as intensely as she had before he broke up with her.

Even equestrian class didn't manage to distract her, and it was annoying her. It was also a threatening thing; if she was too distracted, she could lose control of the horse.. Well, that snapped her from dwelling on her thoughts. Immediately, she yanked the reigns, and the horse instantly halted. Alas, the rider in front of her panicked, and the horse bucked, before bolting toward the stables.

At first, the girl was yelping - but then, between all the sound, she merely whispered, "Oh my God.. that's a beautiful butterfly.. 'least I get to see something pretty before I go into a coma.." Then, she was thrown off when the horse halted, throwing her over the head and landing on the ground. "Oh s.hit!" She ducked, as a guy yelled, and he was thrown into one of the large ponds that prettied up the school. Splashing out of the water, everyone crowded around the two, worried. But then, after a while, laughter filled the air.

In that moment, Sora managed to distract herself. Hamako and Yuichi secretly figured it out, so they managed to distract her throughout the rest of the day.

Then, night came. Its cool fingers crept throughout the campus, seeming to make everything more morbid in Sora's eyes. She sighed; Hamako and Yuichi were back in their dorms, probably finished with homework as she was.

She just wanted to go on a walk; sure, it was midnight, but.. she needed some time alone, at night. Last night was the regular feasting for vampires, where they were able to devour the sheep and goat that were brought to the school, so she wasn't exactly hungry. A hunt wouldn't be necessary, and at the moment, she didn't have much of a desire to go on and kill something. Not yet.

Her brown eyes were shadowed, as she watched her feet. God, she felt like crying; why did things have to end up like this between her and Henkan? And why did he have to get so hateful toward them? Her hands clenched into fists, and she didn't care that her palms were beginning to bleed from it. She could have sworn she ended up hallucinating from missing him so much; she could have sworn she sensed his presence...

"... Sora..? What are you.. doing out here..?"

If her heart was beating, perhaps it would have sputtered. Immediately, she glanced up sharply, causing her silky black hair to shift. Before her..

"Henkan! I should ask you the same thing! Where have you been?!" Her sorrow was swiftly converted into anger.

But, just as she was going to close the gap between them, she paused. Ryoushi.. was right. There was sadness within his eyes. And the hysteria within started up again; she clenched her teeth together, slightly and accidentally, revealing her fangs. But Henkan made no move to flee, nor any move to defend and or protect himself. That eventually forced her to calm down.

As soon as she did, he approached her - shakily, and slowly. His hands seemed to tremble as he reached out for her. And, despite her desire to punish him for all the pain he had caused her, she was frozen to the spot, staring at his hazel hues.

His hands soon grasped her shoulders; at first, it was gentle, but his grip tightened as he bit his lip. But, no amount of physical pain could keep those tears from coming. All of a sudden, he pulled Sora into an embrace, and the tears began to slide down his cheeks.

"I'm so sorry, Sora," he breathed. "I had no choice. Father.. he didn't let me stay with you..." His grip tightened. "I wish I could have you back; you're the only one who has ever reached my heart."

Sora was speechless. So, she had been wrong. Perhaps someone would say that he was lying to her, that he wanted to fake it. But, she knew him; he hadn't changed. Keeping everything inside.. the perfect actor. But, when he cried - she had never seen him cry before, never. And, if he did fake it, the cost would be too much to pay, and it wouldn't be worth it. He wasn't stupid like that. However, she couldn't respond. Shock was still running its course.

And it seemed as if time paused, just for them. His tears slid down her shoulders, past her hair and onto the ground. Her tears, late arrivals, slid down her cheeks and into his shoulder.

Then, he seemed to partially gather himself together, and he slightly pulled away from her, though his hands were still on her shoulders. Even through the tears, he was still handsome, and his expression was softer. It reminded her of the older days, when they were still together, smiling with each other..

"I want you back, Henkan.." She wrapped her arms around him in an embrace. "I miss you so much.."

For a moment, the only reply was a pause. However, Henkan soon wrapped his arms around her again, and he placed his lips on her forehead. "I wish I could keep you," her mumbled, and that sweet, soft tone he used to use with her returned. Her tears increased, and his embrace grew more secure.

Now, his mind was whirling. It was confusing, and frustrating. He had completed the mission with Ryoushi, even if they didn't do as well as a team should. That caused them to return late, just this afternoon. And now, his father would check on him more, which meant he could read anything he was hiding. Sokkenai could do the same, but he would not interfere with his life. His group obeyed his every word, which was growing more suspicious. And, most of all, he almost completely lost Sora - or so he believed. If he was to go back with Sora, what would happen?

She shifted, pulling from him. "Can't we go back out? Can't we? No one has to know.."

His breath caught in his throat. His answer was unprepared. He winced at the thought of her reaction being that of rage. Her slap had already hurt him, much more than anything else. Much more than when his father punished him for loving her.

"Promise me, that you will tell no one."

Without hesitation, she responded, "I promise. Cross my heart, and -"

She was cut off, and she would have gasped if she could. But that would be quite difficult, since Henkan had pulled her into a rough kiss. His embrace grew as secure as possible, and his kiss strengthened somewhat. And she kissed back, with almost the same amount of strength, after she recovered from surprise.

Their tears had dried, and when he broke the kiss, he placed his forehead on hers. His pearls were revealed, but not in a sneer. No, it was an actual smile, soft and warm, reserved only for Sora. ".. and hope to die," he finished for her.

This time, the kiss was almost slow. Expected, but just as powerful.

Breaking away again, they whispered in unison, "A vow to the moon, that our love will never die.."

[/blockquote]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chapter eight; returners

"I want to introduce you to four students," Masumi's voice rang out loud and clear. "They are not new, for they have been here before." With her signature warm smile, she took a step down from the platform; the entire cafeteria listened, intrigued.

Four students proceeded, three boys and one girl. They all placed hands to their chests and bowed in unison, their own unique smiles upon their faces, as they straightened from the bows.

The oldest boy resembled Sokkenai the most. He placed a fist to his chest as Masumi spoke again, a motherly tenderness seeping into her tone. "This is Tsuyoi, my first son."

Tsuyoi smiled a more dazzling smile, one of strength and a youth's desire for fun. He was the largest and most sport-built of them all. The hair upon his cranium was his father's brownish red, and his eyes were his mother's striking azure. He waved once, then stepped down.

The second oldest male then placed a fist to his chest; he resembled Masumi the most. "This is my second and final son, Hagetaka," her motherly tenderness once again sounded.

Hagetaka smiled a more soft smile, one of kindness and gentleness. He was the second most agile of them all. His hair was his mother's blond, while his eyes were his father's crimson. His fist opened, and his hand flattened, palm shifting to exactly where his heart was; still smiling softly, he bowed slightly, then straightened and backed down.

The girl then placed a fist to her chest; Masumi paused slightly longer, glancing behind Sokkenai, before smiling and speaking again. "This is Shiroi Aimiya, daughter of our returning co-owners."

Her smile had a fun atmosphere about it, and her arms slowly stretched outward. Her emeralds gleamed, and her black hair danced with each moment. Arms still extended, she bowed and then stepped down.

The final boy placed a fist to his chest. Masumi continued without pause this time. "This is Hisoka Aimiya, second child and only son of our co-owners."

His smile resembled a youthful grin. He punched the air, exclaiming gladly; his deep silver hair was almost lively, and his grayish green eyes were a charm. His second fist punched the air, and then he leaped back off.

Now Masumi stepped down, and Sokkenai stepped up. From where he stood moments before, two figures seemed to materialize and proceed. "These are our co-owners, holding positions once again, just as our ancestors did."

Both new arrivals stepped up, emotionless gazes watching the crowd of students.

Sokkenai watched everything silent, before speaking almost loudly. "This is Amaya and Seiko Aimiya."

Now came Masumi's voice, in unison with Sokkenai's. "The returning students shall regain their prefect positions as the co-owners shall return to their positions."

The mortals were clueless that these people were not eighth generations, but the first and only. Of course, it certainly was best for it to be for the immortals to know and the mortals to never find out.

As things returned to normal, Sokkenai took all new arrivals to his office. Ryoushi and Henkan were brought by Masumi.

Sokkenai turned his back to them all, thinking. After a pause, he murmured coldly, "Remember.. No one else may know... You must all remember, that.. though the only blood of demon and angel lingers within my family and Ryoushi and Henkan... We risk so much more now."

Vampires think of demons as other vampires, and angels as other werewolves - and the same goes around. But battle, perhaps even war, is not far off; we risk being discovered."

I have learned that only angels may control elements, and that only demons have darkness at their command; through practice and mastery, an angel may heal, while a demon may manipulate sounds and create illusions involved with fear. Vampires are more like advanced humans with 'retractable' claws and fangs, while werewolves may transform and are naturall powerful. Angels and demons may sprout wings and fly - vampires and werewolves have a grace that mimic it, but for a short time."

You see? We are all different, especially in combat. We must protect the perimeter and prevent attack anywhere too close. Do I make myself clear?"

Everyone nodded as he turned to face them, expression bitter and grave.

With a nod of his own, he declared, "You are now dismissed. Remember..." Before everyone left, however, he cast Ryoushi and Henkan a glance.

They understood. Once it was all clear, they left campus and began to hunt again.

[/blockquote]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chapter nine; disaster

He had never felt this anxious. After all, slipping back to the dorm and or medical wing after taking care of Sokkenai's orders was easy. Though, at first, Henkan's presence brought discomfort, but he grew to - slightly grudgingly - trust him. So, what was bothering him?

Ryoushi sighed somewhat, rubbing the back of his head as he made his way to the medical wing. Henkan never went to the medical wing with him, and this time, they were both wounds. What worried him more was that Henkan had received more damage.

But, he knew this feeling was not about their wounds. It was... something else. He was growing frustrated; what was it?!

Another sigh escaped him, and he closed his silvers, walking in an exasperated fashion.

But he soon came to an abrupt pause. Someone was very near - someone he had wished desperately was not.

"... Ryoushi?"

He winced. Cracking his eyes open, he expected either an angry or horrified - or perhaps both - expression. However, Enkatsu surprised him; it was soft, though concerned.

Problem was, that changed the moment moonlight illuminated his figure. Her expression plummeted into dread. "I-It really was true..," she murmured weakly. Her legs buckled, but he managed to catch her. However, there was no relief.

"What are you talking about, Enkatsu?" Panic almost grazed his tone, and he already had a guess; Sokkenai was right.

He felt something moist slither int his palm. As he glanced down, he felt his heart jerk.

"A - A nightmare... I - I saw you.. and Henkan... You were both hurt, bleeding, like you are now..," she rasped pitifully, tears flowing and contorting her normally pretty and carefree face. Her hands clenched into fists, and she pressed herself against his chest, sobbing even further.

Closing his eyes, he took a breath. "Enkatsu... It's alright... You should have been in bed - you're getting cold," he paused in hesitation, "I'll take you to the medical wing."

"No! ... I mean.. not yet..." She too had closed her emeralds. "Where is Henkan? He was in worse condition... What were you two doing anyway?"

Ryoushi felt his breath hitch in his throat. "S-So, you do believe in those dreams, hm?"

"There's nothing to prove these nightmares are false, and many things to prove they are true," she whispered. "Take me to the medical wing once -" She broke off at a voice.

"Henkan! Are you alright? You look terrible!"

"I'm.. I'm fine..."

Ryoushi and Enkatsu opened their eyes and glanced at each other. What was Sora doing, worrying about Henkan? And why wasn't he being an ass to her?

Cradling Enkatsu Closely, Ryoushi bolted to the source of Henkan and Sora's voices. However, his stop was earlier than he expected, thus causing his pause to be abrupt and rough. Surprisingly, he almost growled, but he managed to stop with just a glare directed at Henkan's fist, which was basically prepared to knock his jaw loose - but as soon as Henkan realized it was just Ryoushi and Enkatsu, he lowered his fist.

"What do you want?" he hissed through clenched pearls. Though he had wounds on his neck, torso, right arm, and right leg, he didn't sound weakened at all. Even his glare seemed powerful.

The atmosphere would have sparked with some anger, but Sora and Enkatsu, surprisingly in unison, grabbed both the male's arms, thus distracting them. Of course, both of them weren't really fit to clash, but that never stopped most.

Henkan growled faintly, turning away from them. His wounds stung, but it was nothing compared to what he felt inside. He could feel the hysteria begin to rise, and he had gotten into such a mess the moment he agreed to assist his father. Slamming his fist into a tree, he began to walk off. Sora hesitated at first, before dashing over to him and grabbing his hand.

"Henkan, please... You're leaving a trail of blood!" You have to get to the medical wing.."

He didn't respond for a while. All eyes were upon him, awaiting his reaction, and he could feel that, as much as he didn't want to. Sighing roughly, he muttered coldly, "Fine." Allowing Sora to gently pull him along, he mini cooper everything else out. I don't want to have to act like this anymore... Why did I have to be so stupid? It took effort, but he managed not to show signs of anger.

Upon reaching the medical wing, Henkan signaled for Ryoushi and Enkatsu to wait outside for a moment. Making certain no one was around, Henkan grasped Sora's shoulders. "Sora," he whispered, "I need you and Enkatsu to stay.. uninformed on what Ryoushi and I must do. Please, go and get Enkatsu to go back to your form with you." He bit his lip as she smiled at him.

"Alright, but promise me you won't leave me," though her tone was almost usual, he could tell she was frightened she would lose him. She planted a quick kiss upon his lips, before making her way out.

Ryoushi came in a couple moments after, giving him no time to dwell upon how much his heart was aching. He glanced at Henkan, curious, but not planning to ask anything. The nurse soon rushed in, gasping at their condition; without hesitation, she eased them over to two beds.

"What did he put you two up to this time?" she asked in a deeply concerned, and almost disapproving, tone as she began to clean them up.

Henkan glanced away, not willing to speak. Seeing that, Ryoushi murmured, "The usual. A few demon hounds found us on our way back, though. Called in a group; we managed to escape - mostly thanks to Henkan."

The nurse smiled at them both, patting both their heads gently. "You both are fine boys; you should be more cautious. We don't want to lose you. Now, both of you, get some sleep." With that, she left and turned the lights off.

They went to their beds in opposite corners of the room, before managing to fall asleep.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


Their sleep did not last long. Only two hours after, a snarled howl ripped through the skies. Immediately, Ryoushi and Henkan stirred, sitting up swiftly. They both winced, of course, but were swinging the door open in seconds.

Their footfalls were carefully silent, but inhumanly swift. Despite drowsiness and wounds, they were out of the building and watching Seiko and Amaya stand in attack position before a massive, shadowed beast. Shiroi and Hisoka weren't far off, and neither were Hagetaka and Tsuyoi. Three giant demon dogs against six opponents - and not a moment too soon, it would be twelve.

Yuichi and Hamako swiftly ran to Shiroi and Hisoka's aide, arriving from almost the opposite area of Ryoushi and Henkan. Enkatsu rushed from the door, ignoring Sora's pleas for her to remain inside.

Glancing at each other, Ryoushi and Henkan placed all hostility aside and nodded, before rushing over to Sora and Enkatsu. Henkan snatched Sora's hand, pulling her to Hagetaka and Tsuyoi, ignoring any confused glances.

Ryoushi stopped Enkatsu, grasping her shoulders. "What are you doing here?" his tone was soft, rather than aggressive.

"I saw this happening in another nightmare. These really aren't just dreams, Ryoushi. I know for certain," her eyes glittered with concern, but also with risky determination. Her tone was not wavering, "You, and everyone else at this scene, aren't human, are you?"

His heart plummeted. What was he to say? Her knowledge put them all at even greater risk. How could he afford to verify it?

"Ryoushi, Enkatsu!" Henkan snarled, "Don't just stand there, baka yaro!"

They blinked at each other, before rushing to help Seiko and Amaya.

"Gomen nasai," Enkatsu muttered as she reached them.

"Yeah, we didn't mean to take too long, "Ryoushi added on for her.

They only nodded, continuing to fend off the beast before them, which was most likely the leader.

Things were going so well... until Sora shrieked.

Everyone whisked around, afraid of what sight they would witness. And Ryoushi took it the hardest; Sora had run to Henkan's side, looming over him and crying. From a distance, it was impossible to tell if he was alive - and still difficult once they reached him.

They would have spent more time worrying about Henkan, but the beasts were closing in and Shiroi, Hisoka, Hagetaka, and Tsuyoi couldn't take the monsters on alone. As Amaya and Seiko rushed to assist them, Sora grasped Henkan's shoulders. "Henkan! Henkan, you can't be dead! DON'T DIE ON ME!" no matter how furious she attempted to sound, she couldn't keep her voice from cracking, nor the tears from coming.

Enkatsu placed a hand on Sora's shoulders as she knelt down, gently urging her to look away from Henkan's bloody and battered figure. Ryoushi moved in to examine the damage as Sora turned and wept into Enkatsu's shoulder.

The sight was grim. He could have already been dead. If only he had some sort of medical experience... And if only he had convinced Henkan to stay behind and rest; this wouldn't have occurred in the first place... The silently watching Hamako and Yuichi seemed to agree.

It had been far too long since they looked at Henkan as a companion. It stung to think he never received forgiveness, and perhaps never will.

And from the look of it, he deserved it. Henkan was not a careless fighter. Also, these wounds could not have been caused due to carelessness or a failed dodge.

Closing his silvers, closing them tightly, Ryoushi breathed, "Did Henkan take a blow to save you, Sora?"

[/blockquote]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chapter ten; the darker beginning

Sora’s sobs grew worse, and finally, Hamako dared attempt to comfort her, while Enkatsu watched on, sorrow in her emeralds. Yuichi, as usual, hid his emotions – but Ryoushi could tell that gloom had taken to him as well.

“I… I didn’t think he would – do – that,” Sora whimpered, “I thought I could survive, even if barely.. I knew the attack could have killed me.. – and it – it – it-,” she broke off weeping.

Hamako patted her gently, “There, there… it’ll be alright...” She smiled softly, a normally contagious smile. “You don’t have to go on… We get the main thing.”

But Sora shook her head. With several sharp breaths, she murmured, “I would have been killed if it wasn’t for him… And I’ve always had him - he’s always loved me… We wanted – a future – but now.. he – he could be d-dead.. because of m-me,” with another cry, more tears welled up and trickled down her cheeks. “I’ll never forgive myself!” she shrieked, a heart breaking sound.

“Wait – Sora!” a hint of relief arrived, “He’s waking..,” Ryoushi whispered.

Yuichi stood up – a hint of a smile in his eyes.

“.. S - .. Sora..?” Henkan breathed, slowly cracking his hazel orbs open. He meekly raised a hand, painfully slowly, and reached for her. Crying, she gently grasped his hand, shaking as she carefully embraced him. A soft chuckle escaped him, and for a few moments, it was as if the old Henkan was back; especially when he whispered, “I will never leave you, m’love..”

It was a happy moment, very enlightening to even Ryoushi’s burdened heart. But, all good things had to come to an end.

The hounds were drawing closer, and far too soon, one of them broke through the battlefield. It barreled towards them, flames licking at its pearls.

Yuichi and Ryoushi stood, poised to deflect the flames, and Henkan sat up to coax Sora closer. His eyes were glazed from pain and trauma, but he wanted to want.. especially the main mastermind.

Just as the beast was a couple of yards from them, a slither of darkness rammed it in the face, knocking it off course. Then, a protective dome of darkness wrapped around them all; Masumi appeared and placed hands on Henkan’s shoulders. Knowing what he had to do, he pushed Hamako, Enkatsu, and Yuichi into another area of the darkness, isolating them in the ebony for a moment.

Whirling around, he was going to grab Sora – but she was peacefully unconscious in Henkan’s lap. Henkan was not unconscious – but his hazel gaze was closed, and he clenched his teeth together as Masumi ran hands over his wounds, giving them the ability to heal swiftly inside out.

Once finished, the darkness shifted to pull everyone else back together. Ryoushi signaled for everyone to remain where they were, and Amaya and Seiko stood, prepared, at the edges of the darkness; while Shiroi, Hisoka, Tsuyoi, and Hagetaka were positioned a little ways away from them.

Outside, it was only Sokkenai and Masumi against the demon dogs. Their battle wasn’t as bad as one would believe; after all, these two were only short of being the best by two of Sokkenai’s companions. But they both knew one thing. The mastermind must know their secrets; he or she must know the secrets very close to those deepest within the academy. He or she must have been a close companion, and now a traitor. Sokkenai had a guess, but he had not gained enough information to figure it out. Assarish.iteru had not cooperated very well when he had been caught telling Henkan about the five races that survived on the Earth.

Keeping it to himself, he remained on the tree, glaring venomously at the giant beasts. Masumi was also in her battle mode, poised to leap into action. It was almost like a game of chicken – but it wasn’t going to be a pleasant game in the least. The beasts weren’t backing down, and the owners of Kasumi Academy were not going to either. It was a long, tense pause, where both sides were preparing to fight to the deaths, or until they were solidly forced to retreat.

The hounds soon howled and snarled, lunging at the demon in unison. They were a split second from inflicting damage – but he abruptly shot into the air, and with a black glow, two black wings sprouted violently from his back. Disoriented, the dogs attempted to regain the upper hand, but they were unable to as a blizzard slammed full force into them, controlled solely by Masumi. Her angel wings slowly began to materialize, a bright light shining for a split second.

They growled and thrashed, before the leader glanced up and lunged at Sokkenai. Having been unable to see through the snowstorm, Sokkenai’s reaction was a split second late, leaving enough time for the beast to gore his torso with its massive claws. He was thrown backward several feet, but, with his own demonic growl, he forced darkness to swirl around him. His crimson eyes glinted menacingly, such a bright crimson, it was painful to look at – and those red eyes seemed even more dangerous once they were the only color from behind all that darkness.

Foolishly, the mutt was not afraid, nor intimidated. It seemed to sneer at him, before lunging with flames lurching forth from its jowls. The moment its flames lunged at the demon, the darkness swirled violently, before diving toward the fire and its deliverer. The beast growled, before ducking. But, like its master, the darkness was unforgiving.

Slashing at the flames and causing them to dissipate, the darkness grew even more violent. Then, like a twister, the darkness barreled toward the hound, catching it and ramming into it like a tornado of knives. It yelped and whimpered, being carried into the air. Squirming hopelessly, it shrieked. Blood blossomed everywhere upon its bodice, droplets being carried away and then shattered by the blackness that slowly, painfully, destroyed the opponent.

Their leader’s screeching brought the other two to pause and whimper, backing up somewhat. They were prepared to retreat, but a blizzard caught them from behind, throwing them forward. A traitorous voice boomed, “Destroy or be destroyed.” Their fate had been sealed – utterly sealed.

Descending and landing without a sound, Sokkenai glanced at the glimmer that the blizzard had come from. But it disappeared before he managed to gather decent information. With a slight ‘tch,’ he turned back to the lead dog, which was bleeding to death on the ground. His lip twitched somewhat. “Masumi. Burn it.”

The other two were certainly afraid, but their master had giving them their final order. Forcing themselves to snarl, they lunged again, flames bursting from their maws and whirling around the demon and angel, creating a flaming tornado.

Sighing somewhat, Sokkenai raised his hand. Darkness once again swirled around him, before expanding and overpowering the flames. Masumi then commanded it to pour down. Rain arrived, destroying the flames, and the demon hounds cowered. Their pearls were bared, but terror was in their eyes.

Proceeding forward, another bright flash of blinding crimson slipped through his orbs. Sokkenai raised his hand, palm facing all three. “Perish..,” he whispered perniciously. Darkness seemed to scream, before lurching forth from nowhere – and then ramming like another tornado toward them. They shrieked, before collapsing, and Masumi’s signature azure flames rose to cremate them. Both their wings disappeared during the process. Once all traces of them where gone, Sokkenai’s protective dome dissipated, and everyone glanced up, shaken.

Ryoushi and Henkan were watching Sokkenai and Masumi, awed and glad to have them as the creators and protectors of the school. They would have spoken, but they knew not what to say.

Soon enough, Sokkenai ordered, “Return to your dorms. Rest, and forget about this night. Whisper a word of this to anyone, and you will suffer severe consequences,” his tone was cold and final.

They all nodded, murmuring to themselves. Swiftly, they returned to their dorms, waving farewell and such – and they were sure to keep quiet about every single detail, even the fact that the old Henkan had returned, even if for just a few moments. Seiko and Amaya watched Sokkenai, who signaled to them. They nodded, before taking their children, as well as the owners’ children, back to their rooms.

Once they were all gone, Sokkenai allowed himself to show weakness. With a grunt, he collapsed to his knees, using his hands to prop himself up. “Masumi.. I’ve been poisoned.” He did not look at her. And he knew very well that this kind of poison, if she attempted to help him, could kill her as well. But he knew she would do anything for him, even if he hinted to her that he did not want her to do so.

She nodded, kneeling down and allowing him to place an arm around her shoulders. He clenched his razors, his demonic fangs and claws beginning to grow in to show that his body was beginning to suppress the poison, if only just for a moment. Her sapphires grew softer, and she pressed her lips to his, concentrating. He jerked, but did not pull from her kiss. Each immortal had their signatures, and Masumi’s had two, one of which was a kiss to extract internal damage.

He felt the pain searing through him, gnawing at his insides, and then he felt it abruptly disappear. For a moment, his strength was gone, and his arms buckled, causing him to fall into Masumi’s arms. She coughed, before placing her fingers to her lips. The blue flames kissed her lips, extracting and destroying the poison. But she knew that her healing abilities could not heal the scar the poison had placed on both their chests. She knew that one day, there would be such a poison, and now.. she was afraid. She knew not of what the poison could do to both of them.

But Sokkenai reassured her, “We will not die until our time comes,” he breathed almost raggedly, “And our time is still very far away.” He slowly stood up, careful not to be too hasty. His energy hadn’t fully returned just yet, but it was enough. With Masumi at his side, keeping him steady, they made their way back to their rooms. That entire battle, as well as the aftermath, really required for them to have a good rest afterward.

[/blockquote]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chapter eleven; a break

Sokkenai had ordered for them to forget about it, and so they did. No matter how difficult it was, they eventually managed to; occupying their minds the entire time really was a task. However, burdens were off their shoulders to know that, somewhere, the old Henkan was in there, even if very deeply. Henkan deserved to live; last night had taught them such.

Ryoushi sighed faintly, growing bored as he finished writing down his notes. If only the humans weren't so slow... not to mention, far too uninformed and foolish. Well, not all of them; Enkatsu was different. She was faster, stronger, smarter, better... He slightly shook himself; alright, so he was lucky to have her, but why boast, even if it was just casual thoughts slipping through the mind? Everyone knew he had one of the best girls in the school. A soft smile came to his lips; she wasn't just one of the best girls.. she was one of the best lovers, if not the best.

The faintest hint of a chuckle began to escape his lips, before the bell finally rung and the class was dismissed. Lunch time. Smile growing, he packed up and swiftly left, silvers scanning the hallways for her. Once he saw her, he waved, and she did as well. Rushing over, she signaled for those behind her to follow.

Enkatsu made her way to Ryoushi, and the group followed. Then, surprisingly, Henkan followed as well, Sora under his right arm. Problem was, he didn’t seem too happy to be around them in the least. As a matter of fact, he seemed far too uncomfortable to be around them, wary of everything, and the old Henkan didn’t seem to have lasted long. But Ryoushi could see that, whenever he and Sora glanced into each other’s eyes, there was something Henkan was hiding. Something that.. just didn’t suit the rough personality he had adopted. He inwardly smiled at the thought; they weren’t giving Henkan enough thought. That’s why he seemed so hateful. If only he could find out why..

When the entire group was together, Enkatsu approached Henkan. “What happened? Where’s your group?” it wasn’t a threat, but it did seem faintly wary. Her emeralds hid most of her concerns, but Ryoushi could tell she was afraid the old Henkan utterly disappeared, that the less likable Henkan had returned with a vengeance. Ah, paranoia.

Henkan didn’t respond at first. Instead, he glanced to the side, slightly downward. “They don’t want me there. They say I smell like you guys too much now, so they say I’m betraying them. I walked away from them before they got a chance to try to kick me out,” his tone was calm enough at first, but it tensed up. No one knew why, until they glanced at where Henkan was looking. It was his former group, glaring and flipping him off.

His lip twitched somewhat. “They need to f.uck off..,” and he took their own advice, flipping them off as well. Sora placed a hand to his cheek, smiling at him, which eventually allowed him to calm down.

“Anyway. I heard today was going to be a free day. All classes aren’t really canceled, but we get to choose which ones we want to go to. That right?” Everyone was relieved to see that smile embrace Henkan’s lips.

“Yep. Sokkenai and Masumi want to give everyone a break for a while,” Ryoushi responded, almost grinning childishly as he pulled Enkatsu into him. “How about we have a little equestrian time? Race?”

Everyone chuckled, and Hamako placed her hands on Yuichi’s shoulders, leaning on him somewhat. Enkatsu grinned, plucking Ryoushi a bit. “’Course! Bet I can beat you three times in a row~”

“Oooh, someone’s getting overly eager,” Sora teased.

“Ugh! You’re so negative!” Enkatsu retorted friendlily.

Everyone laughed. The day seemed like it would be a very, very good day.

Punching the air, Enkatsu declared, “Off to the horses!” And they were off as she commanded.

---------------------------------------------------------


Inside the building, Hagetaka and Shiroi were in Mathematics – and no one would have thought that their teacher was Seiko. He was a strict man, but a very good teacher, and today, he actually gave the students three optional assignments. Hagetaka and Shiroi, liking the third assignment the most, were off and away, scribbling down answers and explanations, cracking jokes and such. Even if it was friendly competition, anyone could see that the love connection between them hadn’t weakened one bit.

It was on and off, and Seiko actually didn’t mind the loudness. It was actually humorous. Oh, and did no one tell that profanity and such was allowed? After all, Sokkenai knew that, if he did not allow it, all of the staff would be hypocrites – and no one wanted that. So, instead of being shocked at the offensive shouts, everyone laughed.

“Ha! I beat you!”

“Look now, dear.”

“What the john tesh – bastard!”

“You know you love me.”

“Shut the Hell up! Ha! Beat ya!”

“If you keep on, you’ll lose your voice, sweethe- hey!”

“In your face~”

---------------------------------------------------------


In Gym, Tsuyoi and Hisoka were spending their own sweet time playing basketball, football, etcetera. Despite the comical difference in height, Hisoka was actually a good match. If his size didn’t help, then his speed and skill would. They were actually tied, occasionally breaking the tie, but tying again, all the same. And their conversations never ceased.

“I keep laughing at – ho mini cooper – my sis when she’s – nice shot – hanging around your brother. Really, what does she see in him? HA, I SCORED. TIE BREAKER.”

“Well, my brother’s – oh, I’ll get ya for that – probably one of the most gentle and appropriate males at this school – oh, you’re too short, ha – and Shiroi seems to like a guy like that.”

“Laughable. HA, SCORED AGAIN.”

“Shut up and play better, boy. Haha.”

---------------------------------------------------------


Masumi had been watching from the windows for quite some time. Despite the fact that extracting the poison from Sokkenai’s body had caused her to grow somewhat ill, her smile was still there, seeming to just wait for the correct moment to truly shine. Besides, she found that there was no reason to not smile. The day was good. It was great to give everyone a break before the next day, when work would be picked up again to prepare for upcoming exams.

With a faint sigh of relief, she turned on a heel to glance at Sokkenai, whose back was turned to her. He was standing, seeming to be pondering. Taking graceful strides over to him, she wrapped her arms around his waist.

“Worried about something, honey?” she whispered, concern flashing through her sapphires. Her smile disappeared for a moment.

However, as soon as she saw his cheekbones seem to rise to signal he was smiling, her smile returned. “Nothing is wrong, dear. It’s just.. I can’t believe things had to go this way. But, we’ll fix it.” Unlike him, he turned around and smiled at her, picking her up a couple of feet from the ground and glancing up so that crimson met sapphire. “Your smile tells me we can.”

Her smile grew. “And so we can.”

Once he put her down, she chuckled faintly. “I wonder what the students would say if they say this side of you~” she teased.

A chuckle escaped him. “You never know. Now.. how about we get some more rest?” He held out his arm, and she laughed, a melodic sound.

“Wonderful suggestion.” Gladly, she allowed him to rest his arm upon her shoulders and lead her to their bedroom. “I really think we should have slept immediately after we announced that today was a free day. We really could have had more dreams.”

“But sweetheart, why dream when you have the real thing waiting in the waking world?”

“You’re right. I suppose that’s how Ryoushi and Henkan felt~”

[/blockquote]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chapter twelve; be prepared

“.. Father.”

“What is it, son?” the tone sounded aggravated, dissatisfied.

It made Henkan swallow hard. He had an uneasy feeling about it; he was feeling really, really wary. Had his father had enough of him? Was that why he allowed a demon hound to nearly kill him? Or was he going to give him another chance?

“… Father, the demon hounds have managed to poison Sokkenai. But it seems that Masumi has taken care of that; may I ask, what kind of poison is it?”

There was a pause, and then a menacing laugh. “Son, that poison will remain in Sokkenai until I command it to attack his heart. If Masumi has interfered, I have the ability to destroy her as well. And there isn’t just one way to destroy her.” He laughed again, this time seeming to really enjoy himself. It caused Henkan to tense up.

Were Masumi and Sokkenai really this foolish? To not see that, one of their closest allies was planning their demise? If so… “If so, then they really are undeserving, he muttered under his breath.”

Once he glanced up, a smirk began to play upon his lips. “How soon will they die?”

Assarishiteru cackled, before waving his son away. “Go back to class; you can’t be away too long, can you?” His sneer seemed to hint that he didn’t want an answer, that he just wanted to be obeyed.

And that was fine by Henkan. With a chuckle, he nodded and exited, taking off toward the school.

Once he was certain his son was gone, his smirk calmed down faintly. “Zaikukan.” His tone was humorless, dangerous. “If he messes this one up.. kill him.”

A dark, almost stoic chuckle escaped the shadows. “You’re being rash, Assarishiteru. Give that damned boy at least two more chances; without him, our plans shall crash and burn. If our plans are ruined, then this upcoming ambush is pointless,” his deep tone still sounded young, which made it somehow seem even more threatening. Then he smiled, revealing pointed pearls, which glinted even in such dim light. His black optics seemed to shimmer, and a few flecks of red returned to that chilling gaze.

With a sweep of his arm, a few snarls came from behind him. What was behind him? Another chuckle slipped through his lips; his crimson hair shifted faintly as he jerked his apex up, a demented sneer slowly trailing to his bloodstained lips. Movement, vast movement, flickered behind him.

There, behind him, was an army – an army of hybrids, prepared to do as he commanded. And they seemed eager for bloodshed, eager for the ambush.

“Does he know of our plan?” Zaikukan asked, a sound almost like a growled purr rumbling within his throat.

Assarishiteru smiled - a joyless, merciless smile. “Not at all.”

[/blockquote]

[.&&. Snowsong.]

chαpτєя τhiяτєєn; comє onє comє αll

Typical high school and older things were beginning to occur again, which meant things were finally returning to the way they were. Thing was, Henkan had begun to lean toward Sora and her group, which, despite the fact that they trusted him, caused them some concern. They weren’t certain who to trust, after Ryoushi had revealed a fraction of what they had discovered during their missions for Sokkenai.

Thing was, that was the least of their problems. Or almost the least. Everyone knows what teenage life is like; hectic, chaotic, full of bliss and regrets, hate and love, all that good stuff. It turned out, Henkan’s group contained ambitious and vicious souls. All the females became sluts and whores, while the males drifted into gangs and became thugs. And they were all intent on getting Henkan; but, their targets drifted from that one boy to the entire group that his lover was in. They wanted to rid the school of them.

Henkan nearly got into a few brawls with them, since they never really left them alone. It was only when Sokkenai interfered that they began to calm it. Slowly, Henkan began to drift away from them, grow more antisocial; though he would spend time with them, his mind never really seemed to be with them. Gradually, Ryoushi began to mistrust him again, and so did the rest of the group.

Then, one day, news spread that Nagare had fucked three boys, in just one night. It was rumored that she now began to hunt down Henkan, Ryoushi, and Yuichi; it was said that lust had taken her, which earned her the nickname, Lust. More encounters were reported, and then, suddenly, she and her group disappeared without a trace.

School remained the same through all that. Advanced classes, extra curriculum and such. Only difference was that the classes were more vigorous, covering more than usual due to the odd distractions and such. Of course, the humans were normal; complaining, but dealing. However, the immortals were not near that. No, this was like a breeze to them – but the thing that concerned them the most was the strange atmosphere; it noted more, and potentially threatening, occurrences. And, no one wanted to see that.

It was one of those rainy, gloomy days when Henkan received a note at his doorstep. It read, “We’re waiting… watching and waiting..” And who signed it? ‘The Seven Deadly Sins.’

Henkan proceeded to show it to the group, merely tossing the paper to Ryoushi and Enkatsu. Pearls clenched, humorlessly, he commented, “Looks like we’ve more sluts and dumbasses to deal with than we thought.”

Enkatsu scowled, her hands slowly bawling into fists. “I have a feeling I know who they are..”

“And I have a feeling I know where they are,” Henkan growled under his breath.

Ryoushi crumpled up the paper, an unreadable expression slipping onto his facial features. “It’s not really a threat; they are lame, after all.” His voice seemed so monotone that Enkatsu grew concerned.

She gently grasped his hand, worry tainting her emeralds. “What is it, honey?”

He squeezed her hand, glancing down. His lips simply would not budge. Enkatsu grew increasingly concerned, before whispering in his ear, “You can tell me later; just forget about it for now. Please?”
It took a moment, but he finally nodded after it seemed like three minutes or so passed – which, mind you, was actually quite long considering the immortals’ usual extreme speed.

With an almost forced smile, she jerked his hand, raising it to the heavens. “Ryoushi!” she shouted, determined to distract him from dark thoughts, “I command you to fly!”

He actually laughed. Glancing up, silvers slowly regaining the usual soft enlightenment, he grabbed her around the waist, spinning her once, twice, smiling down at her. “Why yes, my dear queen,” he purred, smiling wider – and it eventually didn’t seem so forced. He raised her higher, before he began to spin her, holding her at her waist on both sides, her hands clenching his wrists as they both whirled and laughed.

Yuichi smirked gently, and Hamako couldn’t help but allow a faint smile to trail onto her lips. Sora, unlike anyone else, was grinning sweetly, while Henkan, with his arm around her shoulders, smirked as he watched them. It really was good to hear laughter again – especially after the darkness had slowly begun to unravel.

Soon enough, conversation broke out within the group. Laughter and smiles ensued, and they slowly began to feel brighter times ahead. Of course, that meant no one bothered to care that Henkan still seemed more distant than usual.

Out of nowhere, they heard someone scream, “It belongs in your pants!”

Sora and Enkatsu glanced at each other, before grinning. Hamako snickered, and the rest of the group joined in, right when Sora remarked, “That’s what she said!” They roared with laughter, and the groups that overheard them did so as well.

Soon, a group of band students and some football team members arrived and messed around. The band was playing football, and the football team played instruments; as expected, perhaps, both sides were quite horrid. But it was fun and humorous, nonetheless – especially when one of the band members was tackled; their football soared into a trumpet, and the person blowing it screamed like a girl, accidentally flailing and sending the instrument flying.

Who did it hit?

Well, it didn’t exactly hit anyone. The trumpet flew into the treetops, and he football was released. Ryoushi, Yuichi, and Henkan merely reached for it at the same time, thus causing a little bit of chaos. Enkatsu, Hamako, and Sora were in hysterics as the boys stumbled, roaring with laughter themselves.

The ball soared, and out of nowhere, Tsuyoi leaped out and grabbed it. Grinning almost childishly, he dashed across the field, with both football team and band members chasing him. Twice, Hagetaka attempted to intercept, and Hisoka and Shiroi did as well – only to be stopped short as they both almost got run over.

“TOUCHDOWN!” Tsuyoi bellowed, thrusting the ball to the ground and whisking his arms into the air, still grinning.

Roaring with laughter, everyone joined in. The game lasted for a while – but it ended when the second half of school had to begin. Still laughing and dwelling upon the fun they had, they were disappointed that Masumi hadn’t adjusted the schedule for the day.

But, they were surprised when the school day was nearing an end.

“Good afternoon, Kasumi Academy,” Masumi’s voice rang clearly throughout the entire school, “I had watched the game this afternoon. Sokkenai and I enjoyed it, and so we have decided to give you permission to play after class is over. Please, do make the best of it.” The intercom switched off with a loud, distinctive click!

There was a pause – a prolonged pause. And then almost the entire school, containing the grades ninth and higher, was filled with shouted of jubilation.