Elfin Lied: Promised

by dyingsoul 36

Promises are important and keeping them can show the character of a man. For one boy a promise he made as a child he fights to keep even as he grows into a man. He promised to find her, he promised to save her. He promised to love her and he never lied.

2. Vector 1: Part 1

Ello good people of all ages, colours, sexes and varying levels of sanity ow you doin'?

Heh. Well thankies to all my previous reviewers for the previous chapter it was just an experiment but the positive feedback was more then enough to get me started with this next bit.

Firstly so sorry that this took so long and will continue to take a long time. This is just vector one (chapter 1) but I already have over sixty pages and its dragging a bit now so, to get a feel for how my fellow ff writers and readers feel about this story I've cut what I've got in half and submitting it as an oh so original 'part 1'.

Hopefully you'll like it cause I'll cry if you don't but I'll need reviews for that so please! Review!

And now the warnings: this work of fiction will contain violence, (Elfin Lied! Duh!) swearing, mature themes, and some nudity, (though not yet). It also has themes of self harm, abuse, and suicidal thoughts and feelings.

Please. If you are sensitive to this sort of thing please don't read and if it upsets you or you may feel some connection to the suffering of the characters just remember. SUICIDE IS NOT THE ANSWER! There is no guaranty of an after life and even a life of suffering is better then the void. Besides what may be bad now will be fine in a month or two. Trust me. I've been in such situations.

Anyway! Without further ado I give you my AU elfin lied story!

Disclaimer: Elfin Lied, its characters, story etc etc do not belong to me and I intend to make no money from this though I'd love a job. Thank you!

The seaside town of Kamakura was known as a busy and energetic place. With its long beaches, seaside resorts and attractions it cultivated a bustling tourist trade and many families and couples came to its shores to have fun and be merry.

The locals and visitors always said for a fun time at low cost this town has it best. And in most cases they were right.

But very soon things would change in this town as the lives of a group of people played out along its shores. Their tragedy's, loves, pain and battles, would mark the land for decades to come.

It started as most tales do when a young boy met a young girl. A very unusual little girl.

A girl with horns.

Elfin Lied: Vector one/ part one.

A chance encounter.

'I Look back into the past and dream of the days of peace and happiness. They are gone. And in their wake lies sorrow and blood... how I wish paradise had not changed.'

Stars would twinkle overhead like angels up here at the shrines, here at night in the quiet and stillness it was easy to imagine something holy was present in this sacred place. At night the statues and huts meditated and those seeking solitude found it among the chipped, old, but still serene statues.

At this time, long past sunset, a young boy was finding time alone. Standing along the cliff side path that led to an overlook of the sea he stared silently at the carved archways and the stone monks who knelt within them. The ancient wise men smiled down at those who walked this path with sadness in their hearts.

The boy was young, no more then eleven or twelve. No age at all in today's modern era. His hair was scruffy and ragged, hanging in thick strips down the back of his head and almost covering his face in heavy bangs. Like the sky above it was a deep black and had seen better days. Washed days to be precise.

The boys' appearance was one of neglect. His clothes were dirty and ragged. A faded black shirt and denim jeans flayed around the knees and ankles and with most of its colour gone. The clothes hung on a skinny frame that had long forgotten whole meals.

Worst was the boys' face. A person so young should not have such emptiness in their expression. The smooth skin was tanned but showing signs of strain. Heavy lines under the eyes showed little sleep and a certain tightness to lips that did not smile.

The boys' eyes however, were a deep blue like the ocean. But unlike the waters they did not sparkle but instead had the likeness of stagnant water. Reflected from those eyes were a dead soul and even the ability to cry had been lost.

But a bark distracted him and the boy had to blink rapidly to clear his head. Turning round he spied a small brown puppy sitting at the edge of the path watching him, apparently appearing from nowhere.

It barked cutely, whining in concern at his sad face then bounded forward and barked again, wagging its tail enthusiastically as it went into a play bow. The boy stared for a moment then took a hesitant step forward. The puppy yipped encouragingly.

"Stay away from him!"

The boy looked up from the dog in surprise as a girl ran from the bushes and scooped up the puppy. The dog barked wildly, licking the girls' face as she glared at him with red colored eyes.

"He's my friend. Don't you dare touch him!" she threatened, her young face set into a menacing expression.

The boy stared back. Confusion on his face as he looked between the girl and her puppy. He shook his head slightly closing his eyes and taking a breath. When he opened them again the expressionless mask was back.

The girl watched as the boy turned away from her and went back to staring at the statues. Her dog nuzzled her cheek and the girls angry face faded to be replaced with confusion as the boy ignored her.

"What are you doing up here?"

The boy didn't respond, "hey I'm talking to you!" the girl spat.

He finally turned; an annoyed look her answer and then his eyes looked up and spied something her messy red hair couldn't hide.

The girl caught his gaze and a blank look came to her face though her eyes flashed with pain.

"Why don't you take a photo while you're gawking at them" she sneered.

The boy looked back at her and for the first time an interested look came to his eyes. He took a step forward and the girl clutched the puppy closer to her protectively, her narrowed ruby eyes watching him carefully.

"Kohta! Kohta where the hell are you!"

Both kids jumped at the shout and the girl looked back down the path. In the distance a woman could be seen climbing the path calling out and looking around her.

The boy watched the approaching woman for a moment then looked back at the girl. She looked between him and the woman then coming to a decision turned tail and ran back into the bushes, her dogs yapping fading as she disappeared.

"Wait" the boy whispered as she disappeared but failed to be heard. He continued to stare into the distance as the woman spotted him and ran the rest of the way.

She came to a panting halt next to him, huffing and puffing tiredly as she glared at the young boy.

"Kohta! What are you doing out here? I told you to stay inside why do you insist in creeping out into the night all the time eh?"

Kohta didn't answer just continued to stare after the vanished girl. The woman huffed and grabbed his hand tugging him to follow. The young boy allowed himself to be guided without complaint as the woman muttered under her breath, "Damn kid... I'm getting tired of having to drag this kid back all the time... why do I always draw the short straw anyway?"

If these words hurt Kohta made no sign but the boy continued to twist his head and gaze back behind him. For the first time in days something had awakened him from his cold thoughts and it was beautiful...

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

"Wake up children its time for breakfast!"

Lucy groaned and rolled over in her bed. The sheets were warm and safe and she really didn't have the energy to face a hectic day. Yesterday's night time trip had not helped her cold and weakness still plagued her body.

The young girl heard footsteps outside her door, as always the person behind hesitated before entering her room to wake her. Her small body grew still as she waited.

The door opened with a squeak and a middle aged woman peeped into the room. Her eyes were stern and filled with unease as they fell on the young girl lying on her bed staring into space.

"Hey its time for breakfast and then class. Teacher Makamura will be annoyed if you are late again young lady. So don't dawdle"

Lucy's eyes lazily turned and met the matrons brown ones. Her ruby orbs betrayed no expression and she made no answer as the matron scowled and closed the door muttering 'creepy kid' as she left.

Lucy stared at the closed door for a few moments before she swept her sheets aside and climbed out of bed. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, readying herself for the ordeal ahead.

The girl managed a few moments standing before her legs began to wobble and she had to reach for her bed frame to steady herself. She scowled as she fought against her own body. The constant weakness a nuisance she could rather do without.

"Stupid illness" she hissed. Wasn't life bad enough without having a flu bout that had lasted the better part of a week?

Her arms were sluggish as she stripped out of her pajamas. She caught sight of her naked self in her rooms' mirror and paused for a moment in thought.

Looking back at her was a young twelve year old girl, yet it was hard for Lucy, (she didn't have a surname that she knew of) to associate the strange sight as being her.

'What a wretched creature I am' she thought to herself. Pale skin that seemed to have been painted white. Skinny legs and arms and the barest of curves, not skeletal but just slender and plain. Nothing special at all there.

She knew her body was starting to change. The gross and unnerving classes she and the other girls had just started taking this year with the matron about puberty and all that yuckiness had explained everything to her. But still she knew even at this natural cycle she was being scammed by mother nature.

She held a hand above her head gauging her height. The other girls had begun to shoot up in size but she remained small and sickly. Like a young plant kept in darkness and unable to grow to its full potential. She idly wondered if she'd just wilt and die before she even reached sixteen.

She thought of all the other girls her age milling the corridors, gossiping about their changing bodies. Beauty tips and fashions that changed week to week. Talking about boys and clothes and make up. All placing so much importance on their outward appearance.

Her own boyish figure had long been a topic of scorn to the girls of the home. No boy would ever want her they said. They'd have to be desperate to consider a freak like her.

'Freak'

Her eyes met her reflections and she glared moodily at the blood-colored orbs. How many other kids had such strange colored eyes? Growing up she had always wondered why her eyes were marked with such a demonic colour. It hadn't helped her gain any friends.

And her hair? Sharp and spiked downwards, hanging down in thick red bangs over her face that gave her a hostile, menacing expression. Styling and fancy hair cuts were non-existent here and Lucy had taken to cutting her own hair then allow another. She didn't trust anyone near her with a blade. She didn't like the only style she knew how to do well but it helped stop people bothering her.

And last, but no means the least of natures curses, the two horns that grew from her skull. Rising as curved bone nubs from her crimson hair. The physical manifestation of her 'freakiness'.

The girl clamped a hand over the smooth bone and gripped it tight. Why did she have to be cursed like this? Had she done something terrible in a previous life? Why had she been the one to have a mother who believed she had given birth to a monster?

'Stop it. This isn't going to help you any' she reminded herself.

With a huff of irritation she set about getting her uniform together. Buttoning and pulling on her skirt with disease-ridden hands was a chore unto itself.

"Wish I had another set of hands" Lucy muttered.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

It was lunchtime and morning classes were over. As usual Lucy had drifted through her classes with barely any attention except a dirty glare at Mr Makamura when he had called her up to the front of the classroom. He accused her of not paying attention in his class, which was true, but when he demanded an answer to his on board question she got it instantly. She'd always been very smart. However he hadn't liked that and had done his best to pettily mock her in front of the class.

Lucy picked at her food, stabbing the meaty gristle with idle attention. She suspected the cafeteria lady was secretly trying to kill them all by serving up constant high fat factory meat. In long term planning it had some merits.

A shriek and an ugly laugh made her look across the room towards Tomoo and his gang of friends. Another boy, smaller and weaker then Tomoo naturally, had just had his bowl of beans dunked over his head. Tomoo was laughing and his big dumb friends were joining in the fun by flicking hard peas at the crying boy.

Tomoo was, for lack of a better work, the school nutcase. And Lucy's' personal tormentor. A wiry kid, average height, with brown hair and brown eyes he looked like nothing special.

Yet the boys bloody minded violence, bullying nature, and twisted evil mind gave him a fierce reputation. 'Nobody' messed with Tomoo and the boy had inventive ways of punishing those who did.

The way the young mans slitted eyes light up with delight as the small boy cried with beans running down his face made the horned girl shudder.

'Still better him then me' Lucy thought without much sympathy.

A loud chair scrape brought her attention back to the group; the small boy had found some courage and was threatening to tell on Tomoo and his cronies.

A dark look came to the bully's face, his sinister grin fading to an ugly snarl. Grabbing the boy by the throat he pulled him close, whispered something into his ear, then sent him packing with a swift kick to the ass.

The beaten kid ran from the room and Tomoo glared at the rest of the people in the room, daring anyone to say anything. Everyone suddenly became involved in a silent eating competition.

'Wimps' Lucy thought in contempt. But then... she didn't want to pick a fight either. But neither was she scared of that troll. Well... not completely.

After a few minutes when Tomoo had sat down and starting to chat to his gang the buzz of conversation returned to the cafeteria. Lucy blanked most of it out until the girls sitting at the table behind her said something interesting.

"Hey did you guys see that new kid in maths this morning?"

"What that really creepy looking boy?"

Lucy turned her head slightly. Creepy boy?

"He was kinda cute"

"Yeah but he was a total nutjob. Did you see what he did to Unsho when he tapped him on the shoulder? He totally tried to kill him!"

"Yeah but Unsho is a creep you know he hangs out with Tomoo"

"But still did you see that look in his eyes? Man that was scary"

Lucy listened intently to the girls sitting behind her as they gossiped about this 'new kid'. He sounded interesting and Lucy had a strange suspicion she knew who it could be.

"Look its him! He better not try and sit with us!"

Lucy followed the girls nervous gaze and saw a young boy, probably her own age... maybe a year older, walk into the cafeteria. Silence fell as he gazed around the room with those blank eyes of his then without a word he joined the lunch queue, staring into space as the people around pretended to not be watching him.

"Man he's creepy"

Lucy felt a brief pang of sympathy as the whispered words around her were filled with cruel comments about this new boy. She knew first hand what that was like. What was his name again?

"Kohta... it was Kohta" Lucy said softly to herself. The name had a nice ring to it.

"What's that? Do you know him?"

Lucy shut her eyes for a moment in annoyance. She had to go and pipe up. Oh well time to face the music.

She turned in her seat fixing the more painted of the two girls with her special 'psycho' eye look. "No" she said sharply.

The older girl's lips pouted, her bright lipstick making it seem like she had a cherry for a mouth. "Well I'm surprised at that. Would have thought you could sense other weirdos like you with those"

The girl nodded towards Lucy's horns and hidden under the table Lucy's hands bunched into fists. God how she wished she could shut up everyone who made fun of her. She wished they'd just leave her alone.

Instead she turned away ignoring the girl and her friend who now began to, not so quietly, whisper about her behind her back.

'They're not worth it. Just ignore them' she told herself.

She glanced up searching for Kohta again. He had finished collecting his meal and now was walking this way. Unease filled Lucy, would he try and sit next to her?

To her surprise he showed no sign of recognizing her as he took a lone table some distance from her. The ruby eyed girl watching him from the corner of her eye but not once did he glance in her direction.

"That's weird" she muttered to herself.

"Checking out the new kid freak? Fancy having a boyfriend as weird as you?" laughed a horribly sinister voice.

'God not now'

A hand leaned either side of her as someone drew close behind her. She tensed as stale breath filled her nose and someone chuckled close to her ear.

"Heard you know that weirdo over there. Anything you can tell me about him?"

"I don't know him. And even if I did I have no intention of doing anything that helps you Tomoo" Lucy hissed as she grew more and more agitated.

"Oh I'm hurt. No really I ask a simple question and then you go and insult me! Why is that?"

Tomoo sniggered, "Perhaps I'm asking too much of you 'Lucy', he said her name contemptuously, perhaps manners is something horned girls weren't born with"

"Just like they weren't born with parents," he added with a cruel smile against her skin.

The words and physical touch were too much and Lucy turned in her seat and swung a fist at Tomoo. She winced as he caught her hand and held her at bay. She lashed out with another fist but he caught that too and held her tight.

Tomoo laughed at her murderous look as he held her trapped. He looked her over and smiled, "You know you're cute when you're angry" he said with a leer.

Lucy's eyes narrowed to twin red points as she felt an anger she had never known erupt in her. She didn't care if he pounded her she would do everything it took to wipe that horrible grin off his face.

However before Lucy could throw herself forward into a tackle a glob of instant mash flew through the air and splattered over Tomoos face. Both girl and boy remained frozen for an instant before Tomoo shrieked and retreated, clawing at the mess over his face.

He glared around the room, "Who did this!?" he yelled, his voice tight with rage.

All heads in the room turned towards one point. The point occupied by a young boy with black hair and blue eyes who held a blob of mash in his hand and was smirking at Tomoo.

Tomoos eyes bulged with anger as Kohta smiled at him pleasantly then let fly with another payload of potato. Tomoo ducked it this time but one of his cronies behind him wasn't so lucky and got a face full of mash.

The bully let loose a roar of fury and made a move towards Kohta and to Lucy's shock she saw the boys sapphire eyes narrow to slits as he readied himself to fight.

'He's insane'

"What's going on in here!?"

All motion stopped as the matron stepped into the room eying everything around her with a severe look. Her brown eyes behind her spectacles swept over Lucy still slumped tensely in her chair, Tomoo and his friends covered in mash, and Kohta glaring at them with dark eyes.

"That boy threw mash at me and my friends matron!" Tomoo yelled pointing an accusing finger at Kohta.

Lucy opened her mouth to argue that he had been doing it to help her and then shut it again. She wasn't sure how she felt about him helping her and really... would telling on Tomoo get any good done? The matron thought she was a freak too.

"Why did you do this young man?" the matron asked Kohta with a haughty look. Behind her Tomoo was grinning sinisterly at Kohta.

The boy blinked then his eyes flicked towards Lucy. His expression was blank but she knew what he was thinking, 'are you going to say anything?'

Lucy ducked her head in shame then remembering herself glared back at the boy. 'I didn't ask for your help. I could have handled that on my own' she thought defensively.

"Well? Do you have anything to say for yourself?"

The matron's words caught Kohtas attention again. He stared at her for a moment before he picked up his fork and began eating again. Effectively dismissing her.

The matron's face grew tight and her lips thinned to a faint line at Kohtas rudeness. Behind her Tomoo made a throat slitting motion and the two stooges laughed silently with him.

One of them winced as Lucy kicked him, glaring at her as venomously as she was as him.

"Young man I know you have been brought here under strained circumstances but your rudeness will not be tolerated for much longer. You may be here much longer then you think and making enemies so quickly is not a very smart thing to do in your situation," the matron said with a light sneer at the end of her speech.

Lucy looked between her and Kohta but the boy made no notion of having heard her. 'What does she mean strained circumstances?' Lucy wondered.

The matron turned towards Tomoo and his group who quickly looked honest and polite by the time her eyes fell on them. "You three go and get yourselves cleaned up before your next class. And you, she added sternly to Kohta, will meet me in my office after fourth period"

Kohta didn't respond and the matron added angrily, "And I expect you be there or there will be consequences!" before marching out of the room.

'Bitch' Lucy thought.

Once she was gone Tomoo strutted over to Kohta who tensed as he approached. Once opposite him Tomoo leaned over the table and said simply, "You're a dead man walking" before turning and leaving.

Lucy watched him go. She knew Tomoo had a vicious streak and an even worse temper but was he serious?

The bell rang and everyone rushed to get their bags together and hurry to class. Going a little faster then normal due to the oppressive atmosphere in the lunch room now.

Lucy picked up her bag and glanced over at Kohta, the boy was carefully sorting his books into his school bag and was paying little attention to the people talking loudly around him as they left the room.

Lucy considered saying something to him but at the moment all she wanted to do was blank out the rest of this day until tonight when she went to see her puppy. As she turned to go she saw Kohta reaching for something on the table.

She stared in amazement as he picked up his kitchen knife, an especially sharp looking one, turned it over curiously in his hands before putting it in his bag and zipping it shut. As he stood up their eyes met, his blank expression tilting slightly as he considered her, then he was walking away without a word.

'What is going on with him?' Lucy thought with confusion and, strangely, a lot of fascination.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The rest of the day, as Lucy hoped, went by in a blur. Classes were the same boring affair. Trying to listen to the teacher and make some effort towards an education that seemed pointless as she ignored the people around her and gave the occasional icy glare at fools who so much as looked at her.

It wasn't that she couldn't be nice to people. At least she thought it was possible but she hadn't tried yet, it was just all the so called 'normal' people around her were just such a bunch of retards and vicious persona's wrapped in children's skins that she had no wish to interact with.

'The only friend I have is a dog and he gives much better comfort then any human I've ever met' Lucy thought gloomily.

She was walking back to her room to get some scraps together for her friend when she literally bumped into someone. She had a habit of walking in a daydream but this was the first time she ever hit anything.

The person was tall and solid and Lucy let loose a little 'Umpth!' as she hit the floor butt first. Shaking her head to clear the sudden nausea (she still didn't feel very well) she looked up with a glare at whoever hit her.

"I'm so sorry miss I didn't see you there. Are you ok?"

The adult who had walked into her (she wasn't gonna admit to having made a mistake) was a smart looking sort. The usual posh specs, snappy suit and superior expression. Probably a prospective parent or new teacher coming to check out the home. There was usually three or four adults a week coming by to visit the home and sometimes they left with a child. His concerned voice did make Lucy hold back her snappy retort.

"I'm fine" Lucy muttered standing up with some difficulty. She swayed the instant she got on her feet and to her surprise the stranger reached out a hand to steady her.

But the hand stilled as soon as he caught sight of her horns.

A frown came to his face and Lucy froze as she saw his barely hidden revulsion. "Excuse me but do you... are they?"

Lucy swatted his still outstretched hand aside and gave him her dirtiest look before walking on by. She could feel the damn old man still watching her. Or more specifically her horns.

'I hate them... I hate them all. Why do they have to keep doing this? What did I do to deserve their disgust?'

She quickly reached her room, slamming the door shut behind her and leaning against the cold wood as she blinked back tears.

"Bastard" she hissed, choking back a sob.

She stared up at the ceiling focusing on going back to her numb place. In her normal state of blank detachment where she couldn't get hurt. She didn't know why she was getting upset so easily lately... maybe what Tomoo said earlier was what was pushing her over the edge?

Its getting harder to stay sane in this place.

Lucy shivered at the unpleasant thought. She wasn't going to go down that road.

Looking out of her window she could see the sun starting to set. For the first time today she smiled a real smile.

"Time to go see my friend" she said to herself happily.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Kohta looked up into the night sky, staring dreamily at the distant specks of starlight that shone overhead. He always came to this spot when he was at his worst. The small path leading up to the mountains with the monks staring down at him were so peaceful.

The wind was cool and refreshing in summer. A gentle breeze that stirred the leaves of the plants around him and made them whistle pleasantly to the boys ears. Another plus of this place was that at this time of night nobody came here and even if they did with all the bushes and trees, and the winding path itself, it would be hard to see him at all.

He sighed and reached into his bag searching around for something with a practiced hand. He paused for a moment then slowly withdrew a scrap of paper from the tattered rucksack.

He looked down, and with trembling fingers opened up the folding parchment. When it was revealed a smile came to his face and his hands shook slightly as he stared intently at the picture in his hands.

A tear fell from his now bright eyes that he quickly wiping away with a throaty sniffle. Examining the photo for a minute longer in silence he tenderly put in down and drew something else from his bag.

His smile grew wider as he placed the music box on the soft earth beside him. He seemed lost in thought and memories as he ran a shaky hand over the worn polished wood before carefully flipping the catch and opening the lid.

There was a rattle of moving gears and then a gentle melody played from the music box. A song from heaven that touched deep into Kohtas heart and moved his soul.

He wondered what the spoken version of this song was like. Probably some kind of hymn that would be like a church choir. All Latin and echoing voices.

He closed his eyes and hummed along with the song as his hand absently reached into the bag again. He licked his lips in anticipation as his hand closed around something cold and smooth as beside him the little box continued to sing its beautiful song.

Opening his eyes the dark haired boy rolled up a sleeve with his spare hand, his movements slow and careful, almost drugged even.

A skinny arm was revealed to the starlight. An arm covered in scars and glistening red lines along tanned skin. Kohta looked down in contemplation, a frown on his face as he considered his arm then he removed the knife from his bag and picked a spot.

The knife drew red... and it all felt good to Kohta.

Lucy laughed in delight as her puppy yipped happily and licked her nose, "Did you miss me?" she asked with a smile. The puppy answered with another bark and lapped at the girls giggling face more fiercely.

"Stop, stop, stop! Tee hee! I'll never be dry again!" Lucy laughed. The puppy stopped and stared up at Lucy with its little tail wagging wildly and Lucy smiled back. It felt so nice to have someone be happy in her presence.

"I'm so glad I found you... I don't know how I'd stand this place if it weren't for you"

Lucy's smile wilted in sadness, "Tomoo was mean again to me today," she said softly. Her puppy whined in concern as Lucy hung her head.

"He mentioned my parents... making fun that I never had any... always making fun off me"

She sniffed miserably, "I used to think one day they'd come for me. One day I'd have a real family. But they aren't coming... they're never coming. THEY NEVER WANTED ME AT ALL!"

Covering her face with her hands Lucy let loose all her sadness, that had been building up all day and that she had been trying so hard to hold in, in a teary wail. Beside her the little dog whined and nudged her knees with its nose in an attempt to console her.

"I'm sorry, Lucy said thickly as she wiped her nose on her sleeve, I'm always crying around you. Probably not the best thing a friend should do"

Lucy smiled wetly and petted her dog that continued to watch her with concern. It was the sympathy and pity in those cute little eyes that always made Lucy cry. It wasn't that they upset her or made her angry it was just that she didn't feel she had to put on a false image around him.

"If only people were as nice as you" Lucy whispered as the puppy licked her fingers.

The puppy stopped licking her fingers suddenly and looked up into the trees around her. It sipped questionably and tilted its head as if listening to something.

"What is it? Is someone coming?" The red haired girl asked with concern. The puppy barked in reply and Lucy's eyes hardened to a flinty red as she glared around her. If it was Tomoo or one of his pack she didn't care how much they hurt her she'd kill them if they went near HER friend!

After a few moments with no evil boys approaching Lucy wondered if maybe her friend was just hearing a squirrel or some other animal. But after a while Lucy began to hear something herself. A sound of some kind...

"Music" Lucy breathed as she listened intently. It sounded like some kind of classical melody. Something that was sung out by ancient instruments in a place of worship. It sounded nice...

The puppy obviously agrees as it barked again and ran off in the direction of the sound.

"No wait!" Lucy cried as her friend ran off barking and with a curse she hurried after him.

Kohta hummed along with the tune in the air as he drew the knife over his skin in practiced motions. He had long ago stopped feeling pain when he reopened the wounds and instead now felt a strange form of pleasure whenever he cut deep. Weird but it was the only form of 'feeling' he could acquire so he continued to do it.

He hadn't been able to feel anything but cold ever since that day. The day that his father and sister...

"Caneene stop! Come back!"

Kohtas head snapped up with a start and he whirled round, knife raised, as he heard a girl shouting nearby. He glared into the bushes around him and tensed, as there was a rustle in the undergrowth.

A puppy came dashing out of the forest barking loudly at him. Its barking became a confused whine as it saw him then it yipped and wagged its tail happily as the puppy remembered him.

Kohta remembered that dog too. It was the same one from the other night... which meant that-

With a burst of leaves the same horn headed girl rushed into the clearing and froze as she saw Kohta. Her eyes flickered between her puppy and the knife Kohta was still holding in the air threateningly.

With a glare he lowered his weapon but didn't let go.

"Its you again"

Silence.

Lucy frowned at him, "What are you doing here so late?"

The boy smirked slightly. He jerked his head towards the music box and then raised an eyebrow at her questionably.

Lucy narrowed her eyes but decided to play along. With a similar jerk she indicated her dog that was now happily scratching his ear with a hind leg as he sat between them. Kohtas lips twitched but he still made no sound and instead began to look around him with disinterest.

"Do you ever talk" Lucy said as she picked up her dog and held him close, a glance from Kohta was her reply but he quickly went back to gazing around.

'What is up with this boy' Lucy thought in confusion. She didn't know his name. She didn't know anything about him. Yet she had had more contact with him in the last two days then anyone else at the home. Well friendly-ish contact as the others just made fun of her.

Her dog barked again and the boys deep blue eyes were drawn to her furry friend. "His name is Caneene" Lucy offered noting the interest in his gaze.

He looked up at her again and Lucy squirmed slightly at the silent staring, it was getting a little creepy even for her.

However her unease faded quickly when she saw his eyes lock onto her horns again and a confused look came over his face. The attention was more then enough to get her blood racing again.

"Stop staring" she said low and cold. He blinked and tilted his head considering her. Her angry ruby eyes having no effect on him as he examined her.

The music stopped and both youngsters came out of their trance at the sudden silence. Kohta looked down at the music box and bend down to pick it up.

Lucy watched the boy tidy away his things and began to feel very silly standing here in the middle of the night, with a boy who wouldn't talk to her, and still with a bit of a fever.

'This is stupid' Lucy thought and she shook her head at her own strange behavior and turned to go.

"I'm not gonna stop staring" came a soft voice from behind her.

Lucy gasped in surprise and turned sharply meeting the sapphire eyes of Kohta as he looked up at her from his crouched position.

"What?"

Kohta pointed towards the horns, "I'm not gonna stop staring at them"

Lucy's face tightened as her familiar anger quickly resurfaced. Bad enough to insult her and show disgust but to be so blatant about it!

"And why is that?" she hissed as her eyes glared at Kohta past her red bangs.

The boy's face remained impassive but his words were surprisingly gentle, "Because I think they're pretty"

Lucy froze for a moment as his words were taken in then a pink blush came to her cheeks. 'What the hell?'

"Are you making fun of me?" Lucy demanded as Kohta finished packing his stuff and stood up. The boy shook his head and shouldered his bag.

Lucy didn't know what to make of him. This was all so weird. Was it all a trick? It had to be a trick!

Trying to wrap her mind around the first praise her horns ever received Lucy's eyes were darting all over the place and quickly fell on the knife Kohta was still gripping in his hand.

Finally she noticed that the simple steel cutlery was stained red with blood.

"What the..." Lucy followed the hand clutching the knife, followed the thin trails of red liquid that ran down the tanned skin, and to her shock saw dozens of criss crossing cuts covering the boys arm.

Kohta noticed her gaze and looked down too. For a moment something like anguish and guilt came to his face but it was quickly suppressed behind the blank mask.

The blue eyed youngster raised his arm turning it this way and that studying his own wounded limb as Lucy stared in confusion and horror.

"Did you do that... to yourself?"

Kohta gave an almost unseen nod, his attention still on his arm.

Lucy had a stricken look, "Why?" she asked as she clutched Caneene nervously.

Kohta stared at her for a moment considering then, in one swift action, he slashed deep across his palm. He didn't even flinch or grunt as the blade cut deep.

Lucy gasped in shock as a splatter of blood soaked the ground and could only watch in a mixture of sickness and fascination as he held his torn hand out for her to see.

"Because it lets me feel" Kohta explained and for the first time a smile came to his lips.

Lucy turned away slightly uncertain how to respond or what to think but Kohta had said enough and the boy turned on his heel and walked off back to the home.

Lucy watched him leave wondering whether to say anything. He obviously had some serious problems and the girl could feel the words 'wait!' just begging to leave her mouth.

'He did say my horns were pretty...'

"Wait a moment!"

The boy paused for a second now around three meters from her, Lucy couldn't see his face but she swore he was shaking slightly. Was he scared?

"You can... talk... to me if you want?" Lucy offered fighting back her own fear.

Kohta turned his head slightly, his black strips of hair hiding his eyes from her but she could tell he was considering her.

"No"

Lucy took a step back as if stung.

"Its better if I don't"

And with that he legged it.

Lucy stared after the running boy. What was up with him? Why was he such a...a... something annoying that's for sure!

Yet despite her anger and some hurt at his rebuke she was still deeply fascinated by this meeting. This was certainly the most interesting thing that had happened to her in recent years (if ever).

"Come on Caneene I'll take you back home ok"

The puppy barked and with a smile she headed back into the woods to her friends hiding place. She'd have to find some way to get more food for the two of them tomorrow but now she had something else to interest her.

'Kohta... are you someone who's hurting as much as me?'

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

"Lucy would you mind paying attention please. Or is the history of our country of no interest to a young girl like you?"

Mr Kimuchii's snobbish voice brought Lucy out of her daydream and back to boring reality. She turned away from her blank gazing outside to the stares of her fellow classmates and teacher. She was just having a nice little fantasy then.

"My apologies sir" the horned girl said blandly. Her teacher sniffed reprovingly and her classmates snickered amongst themselves.

"Listen child you already have a history of tardiness that is not getting any better with your constant goofing off. I hope that you'll start to pull things together soon as we have an examination period coming up soon"

Lucy just stared back silently after her teachers speech, 'Like I care about stupid history. Is their any value to me for all this?'

The teacher cleared his throat and carried on with his description of the Second World War. Lucy tuned out very quickly.

Today had gone on as normal. Take classes, daydream, ignore Tomoo, etc endless etc. She glanced outside again watching the birds fly by in the sky. Oh to be as carefree as they are...

Her crimson eyes came out of their daze and focused on something outside. Her classroom was on the second floor of the home and she had a good view over the fields and most of the campus. A class had just left the main building and was heading out towards the sports area.

A messy black haired boy was in the class.

Lucy looked more intently. Kohta was hanging at the back of the class, head down and walking at a steady pace as the rest of the group chatting amongst themselves. He wasn't talking to anyone and everyone else was ignoring him.

'He looks so small' Lucy thought, and wondered at her strange emotion. Kohta was wearing green shorts like the others and his tanned legs were skinny and shook slightly with his steps. Was he ill?

And he wore a long sleeved shirt. Everyone else had a white T-shirt but he was wearing a baggy black number, 'probably to hide his scars'.

The PE teacher gathered the class together and started handing out some equipment. Looked like they were gonna play rounders or some such. Lucy watched as Kohta hovered at the back of the class and even from this distance she could see apprehension on his face as the class was split into two teams.

'Poor thing'

"Miss Lucy!"

Lucy shot up in her chair, eyes wide from surprise as her teacher glowered down at her from beside her desk.

"I am getting tired with your attitude miss! Why do you continue to show such blatant disregard for your betters and the education and support we give you?"

Lucy stared up at Mr Kimuchii's incensed eyes and a dozen replies filtered through her thoughts, sorry sir, it won't happen again, I haven't been sleeping much. That at least was true.

However when the elderly man's eyes flickered up to her horns for an instant, just a mere instant, and she caught a brief flash of resigned dismay in his eyes as if that explained everything. Behind him she could see her classmates openly watching the spectacle with amusement on their oh-so smug faces.

Lucy lost it.

"Well sir its probably because you're an old fart who just drones on and on and on. And I try not to, I really do sir, but the sound of your voice just puts me to sleep so well. I can't help myself"

Lucy smiled sweetly.

Mr Kimuchii gaped at her.

What happened next was supposedly bad but she couldn't stop smirking the whole time.

"Go to the matrons office. Disgrace to the home. Yadda yadda bloody yadda"

Lucy muttered rebelliously to herself as she wandered the halls on her way to the tyrant's office. Mr Kimuchii had told her to go there and wait for him but as his class didn't finish till two thirty she was taking the time to wander the halls and clear her head.

She understood she'd probably get into a lot of trouble. Extra cleaning duties, maybe some losses of leisure time. She'd definitely have that old hag shouting and belittling her for a good while until she had laid her issues on her.

Yet Lucy didn't really care. The red eyed pre-teen had little in her life anyway that she considered worthwhile. Take away her possessions. What would those be again? Give her less treats then the other kids. Did she even get any in the first place? Extra lessons or even private detentions. Great some time to herself away from prying eyes.

'The only thing I care about is Caneene and they have no clue about him so I'm not worried' Lucy thought with some satisfaction.

Wandering the second floor corridors, occasionally catching snatches of laughter and high-pitched conversation from classrooms she passed Lucy wondered how Kohta was doing. He didn't look very happy to be in that sport class.

'Something we have in common then' Lucy hated PE and sports not because she was unhealthy (except for the non-stop flu) but the whole enforced team games made her feel sick. Having to tolerate being around people who didn't want her presence was something that always got her nerves highly strung.

She glanced out the corridor windows moodily. The tall glass panes with no blinds gave a view out into the town and Lucy could make out the forest and high slopes of the mountain paths just past the buildings and streets. The hustle and bustle of the town meant nothing to her. The wilderness just beyond was much more to her taste.

Caneene was out there somewhere, wandering the forest happy and safe. Lucy missed him with a sharpness she hadn't believed possible. Shame she had to wait till gone nine to sneak out and see him.

She was still staring out into the forest, considering maybe just going out to see her friend for awhile and to hell with the matron, when she spied a figure leaving the homes grounds.

The person looked back towards the school, suspiciously looking around to see if he was being followed, and Lucy was surprised to recognize that young boy.

"What's he doing?" Lucy mumbled to herself as Kohta, satisfied he wasn't being followed, slipped out the main gate and headed towards the path to the shrines.

"What'cha looking at?"

Lucy gasped and shot a glance to her right towards the owner of the perky voice. She eyed a pigtailed girl who somehow had sneaked up on her. The girl looked back at her curiously before glancing out of the window.

"Hey should he be leaving the school at this time of day?" the new girl wondered aloud. Her voice was high and squeaky but not unpleasant. Lucy was mildly surprised to see nothing but innocent confusion on the girls' face instead of the usual snappiness.

"Probably not" Lucy replied cautiously.

"I guess I don't blame him for wanting to be alone. He hasn't had a good start here. Everyone thinks he's creepy and they make fun of him a lot. Even if he is weird I don't think that's right"

Lucy remained silent but watched the girl with some curiosity.

"So are the two of you friends?"

Lucy blinked and her face betrayed nothing but frank surprise, 'What the?'

"Friends?"

"Well I saw him stand up for you in lunch the other day and I wondered if maybe you two were friends?" the girl replied sheepishly.

Lucy felt a strange pang in her chest at the reminder of that day. She still felt a little guilty about that.

"I didn't need his help"

She scowled at the diminishing figure of Kohta. Beside her the girl tilted her head uncertainly as she regarded Lucy.

"My name is Miko by the way"

"Good for you"

The girl frowned slightly, "Why are you out of class too?"

"Did anyone tell you you ask too many questions" Lucy snapped.

The girl looked hurt and Lucy felt again a strange pang of guilt. What was wrong with her these days?

"Sorry... I just... I just haven't been having a good day"

Miko nodded and went back to smiling happily and looking out of the window. 'She accepted that so easily' Lucy thought perplexed.

"I wonder if its harder to be in his situation then ours" Miko said thoughtfully. Again Lucy got the impression she was speaking more to herself then to her.

"Situation?"

"You don't know?" Miko asked giving Lucy a surprised look.

'I don't really get a lot of gossip' Lucy thought of saying. Instead she shook her head.

"His family were murdered. Not less then two weeks ago! The police have him as the only witness and they haven't caught the man who did it yet so he's being kept here for his safety. They think that he'd be safe here as we're so out of the way"

"Besides, she added with some sadness, who would care to investigate orphans like us?"

Lucy stared out at nothing. 'His family were murdered?'

For the first time in a long time Lucy felt generally sorry for a human. Miko was right. They never had family and parents and that hurt like hell but surely its much worse to have lost loving parents. To have that safety, warmth and security that we all so crave and then to have it taken from you overnight.

'Maybe that's what all the cuttings about? His weird silent manner too? God he's not gonna kill himself is he!' Lucy thought it rising panic.

"Doesn't he have any family at all?" Lucy asked hurriedly.

Miko shook her head. She looked out again and sighed, "Poor guy"

Lucy was thinking alone the same lines. So that was why he was the way he was...

'But still... it makes him interesting but... its not like he's anything special. He's just another annoying boy'

'He did complement your horns though' whispered a quiet voice in Lucy's head.

'He's probably just making fun of me or setting me up for something' Lucy argued.

'Maybe. But what if he was being serious? What if he's actually nice?'

'Yeah but... what if he's not! Is it worth the risk?'

'Wouldn't it be better to take that risk then go through life always wondering?'

'Hey its not like this is a marriage proposal or something to be considered! I don't even know him!'

"Are you alright?"

Lucy snapped out of her internal argument. She saw Miko giving her a funny look and looked away bashfully. "Sorry I was away somewhere" she mumbled.

"That's ok, I do that all the time!" Miko chirped with a full smile. She glanced outside again ('She's always looking all over the place' Lucy observed) and gasped.

"Oh no"

Lucy followed her gaze and felt her stomach clench and a familiar acid hate fill her being. She glared ruby slits at Tomoo and his two friends as they appeared below, glancing around them furtively and skulking up the path as they creep out of the school.

"What are they doing?" Lucy muttered under her breath as she watched Tomoo huddle with his two lackeys and have a whispered conversation.

The answer became apparent when they came out of their huddle, smirking and punching fists together and generally looking unpleasant, and headed off in the same direction as Kohta.

'Oh shit'

Lucy's mind whirled. What should she do, what should she do?

Tell a teacher? Nah they wouldn't listen. Especially as at the moment her reputation was at an all time low. Maybe if she went to see the matron herself and explained she'd listen?

Now that she knew about the reason Kohta was here she was sure she could make a few veiled threats about how the police would feel if a witness were hurt under her supervision.

No. That still would take too long. By the time she got the old woman to do anything something serious could have happened to Kohta.

"They can't be up to any good," Miko said in a hushed voice. She was clutching her hands tight against her chest in worry.

Lucy didn't answer. Inside her head she kept replaying the last words she remembered Tomoo saying to Kohta.

'You're a dead man walking'

He was gonna hurt him. A lot. Lucy always knew Tomoo was crazy but over the last year he had been getting far worse.

The last time a boy had back talked to him, and then told a teacher about Tomoo bullying him, less then a week later he had been found by police outside in the woods one morning after being missing a night.

He had been pounded to a pulp, and when asked who did he said he didn't remember. Police and the matron still believed he'd been attacked by some crazy in town but Lucy knew better.

Tomoo had always smiled when he saw the boy. And that kid had never spoke a word again in Tomoos presence.

'And Kohta defied him. Kohta fought back without fear'

What Tomoo did to that boy will pale in comparison to what he will do to Kohta. He might not even return from his trip to the woods.

'Is this really any of my business though? Should I really be sticking my neck out for him? I've never got involved with anyone else's problems before' the cold part of Lucy argued.

'He said I had pretty horns'

'He's a human. Humans lie'

'He looks so lost and alone. He hurts himself to feel. He can't be bad to hurt himself can he?'

'Forget him! Go back to the way we were before. He's a complication we don't need!'

'No!'

"No!" Lucy snapped. She wouldn't leave him! He helped her and it was time she repaid the debt. Even if just to make things even so she can forget him.

"No what?" Miko asked in confusion. She quailed at the ferocious look the other girl gave her.

"Don't tell anyone what I'm doing" Lucy said quietly. Her words heavy with the promise that something unpleasant would happen if Miko did.

"O-Kay... um... what are you doing?"

She almost whimpered as Lucy's eyes narrowed to even scarier slits, "I was just asking!" she squeaked.

"I'm going to help him" Lucy hissed. Then she turned and sprinted down the corridor quickly taking a right and disappearing down a flight of stairs to the ground floor.

Miko waited for her breathing to return to normal before she hugged herself tight and shivered. She had watched this strange girl a few times and felt sorry for how badly she was treated. She believed that half the stuff people said about her was probably just rumors and felt all she needed was a good friend. That's why she decided to approach her when she was alone and looking sad again.

She trembled harder. But even though the girl seemed ok she couldn't get the sight of those two red eyes turning to scary looking slits out of her mind.

She wasn't sure how but she was certain that the horned girl could be extremely dangerous if she wanted to be.

She looked out the window as Lucy appeared below and ran after Tomoo and Kohta.

"Good luck"

Kohta smiled happily as he walked slowly through the tree-lined paths of the 'deadzone' as he named it.

Out here in these few square miles past the town hardly any people came here and the few that did were easy to spot and avoid for Kohta. This area was half forest, half-beaten tracks and the rest near abandoned but interesting landmarks.

He considered where to go to spend his time. The winding paths he followed lead to many places such as the shrines, the graveyards and other favorite spots. A favorite was the 'wise mans way' the meandering dust roads that lead to the top of the hills that were lined with the benevolent monk statues. It was his favored wandering route as it was quiet and peaceful and if he followed it all the way to the top he had a beautiful view of the sea from the top of the long stairs that lead back down to the town.

If he left the path about halfway up, stumbling through a great deal of bushes and forest in the process, and walked for a few minutes he'd come to a clearing where the stone dogs lie.

It was eerie but nice there too. Just a wide-open space with long flowing grass and dotted with ancient statues of dog spirits, cracked and pitted by age but still serene.

'Or maybe the graveyard?' It was close to the town and if he wanted to get their unseen he'd have to force his way through ten minutes of forest but it was 'the' place to go if you wanted to be alone. He kinda felt sorry for the sleeping dead there. They never got visitors it seemed to him.

"I'll go to the dogs today" Kohta decided aloud. He smiled at his own voice and tried a giggle for his own enjoyment. The sound hung in the air and now Kohta laughed openly at how silly he was being.

'I haven't felt this happy for a long time'

The reason for his high spirits, (well as high as they could get considering) was of that girl last night. That strange and beautiful girl with horns.

He almost believed he'd stumbled onto a sprite or woodland spirit that first night he met her. She looked so ethereal, so pale and shiny red, that he thought she 'had' to be something unique.

Oh and of course there was the horns.

But that just made her more special! More individual. More one of a kind.

And to have seen her the next day and know she really existed. That she was just a normal girl who lived in the real world too. It had been even more amazing.

And then he saw, and heard, how badly she was treated. The kids at that miserable home thought she was a freak just because she looked different. And that scum bag Tomoo, the slime, had tried to harm her.

He had felt a delicious little thrill when he threw that mash at the boys' face. And when that same foolish boy went for him... he wished for nothing more then to take his knife and show him the error of his ways.

Shame the matron stopped him.

'Oh well we can't get everything we want' Kohta thought with a wry smile. He was feeling in just the right mood now to get some decent work done. He looked down at the sling bag he carried and thanked the stars that he had been able to keep some of his stuff.

The whole police lock-up had done away with most of his possessions.. that and the blood... covered...

"Stop thinking!"

Kohta shuddered and gave himself a shake. He was having a good day so far. For once don't think about the world and just enjoy being alive and alone ok!

"Dogs it is" the dark haired boy muttered and continued down the path.

'Where is he!?'

Lucy looked around wildly as she followed the dirt path. She had covered almost a mile, well her feet felt they had, and she had seen no sight of Tomoo or Kohta.

She had hoped to tail Tomoo and hopefully be able to intervene if anything happened. Of course 'how' she was going to intervene and stop Tomoo she had no idea. She hoped something would come to her when she was on the spot.

But what had to happen? Tomoo ditched her! The rat had vanished, him and his two thugs, and Lucy was wandering the paths with no idea where to go. She assumed Tomoo had split his group and sent them into the undergrowth to search for Kohta, leaving her alone in the middle of nowhere.

'And that means now I could be in trouble if Tomoo finds me alone before I find him' Lucy thought with not a little nervousness.

She looked around again. Small insects buzzed around her and birds chirped from their seats on the trees. The whole area was tranquil and calm except for the frantic girl alone on the path.

"Ok where to go. I kept seeing him on the monk path... maybe he's there?"

Lucy looked round and frowned as she spotted an alcove with one of the stone monks. The holy man smiled benignly at her scowl and Lucy swore. "Ok he's not at the monk path cause I'M here and he's not"

She scratched her horns as she drew a mental map of the area. Where would he go? Somewhere quiet obviously. Somewhere he could be alone and uninterrupted but that would appeal to his own weird nature.

Kinda like her actually. 'Ok so where would I want to go' Lucy thought with a slight grin.

The graveyard was nearby that place was quiet if a little creepy. Naw he wouldn't go there, at this time of day someone would be there. The monk's path he obviously wasn't at and he wouldn't be in town.

'He could have just disappeared into the forest and be sitting on a log somewhere'. Lucy dismissed this. Kohta seemed the type to have to 'be' somewhere. Even if it was somewhere anyone else would think is nowhere it would be 'somewhere' to him.

As she considered this the answer lit up in her skull. She almost heard the 'ping!'

"Dogs bodies" Lucy whispered and then grinned. Of course! That place would have to be where he was!

With a new sense of direction Lucy headed back down the path and shouldered her way into the forest.

"Piece da la art" Kohta said as he added some of the finishing touches to the sketch before him. He had been working on it since last night and had had a burst of inspiration to finish it off this morning. Hence his escape from gym class.

He glanced up at the statue he was sitting against and shifted round so he was facing it, "What do you think?" he asked to the stone dog.

It didn't answer of course but Kohta still chuckled at his own childishness. Yep. He was still a little kid at heart.

He hummed a little tune, the closest he could get to Lilium without his music box, and made some smooth strokes with his pencil. His eyes frowned in concentration and his tongue just poked out the corner of his mouth as he erased a line here, added some tone there and then-

"Wah-laa!" Kohta beamed proudly at his finished masterpiece. He was certain he had captured the beauty, if not perfectly then at least acceptably.

'Now here's the thousand yen question... do I show it?'

Kohta gnawed on his lower lip as he started to pack away his things. He knew it was a good picture but would she like it? He had only seen them a few times; did he get them right? Where they bigger, were they smaller? What if she was disgusted?

'I did say I didn't want to talk' Kohta thought. He also remembered punching the wall of his room when he got back for being so cold to her.

He glanced at the picture again, reverently picking up the sketchpad and smiling happily. Maybe he'd include an apology with this. Yeah that would work. And if it didn't at least he tried.

'Though if she tells me to get lost I'll…I'll..."

Kohta thought about this some more. Ever since last month he'd been living in a world of grays and muted sound. Nothing seemed real or important. When everything you've ever known has been cut out from under you it's hard to find a place in the world again.

But then he saw her. And for the first time in a long time he started to see in colour again. The fact it was in blood red just heightened his interest. He wanted so much to get to know her more... she was just so cool.

But what if she said no?

'Go on living. So what if she rejects me? I don't need her. I never did. This is just a phase I'm going through, puberty and all that. If she says no I'll go back to the dark and never bother with anyone again'

Kohta let these thoughts write across the blackboard of his mind and then rubbed them out. Maybe it would all go wrong but he had to try. He 'needed' to try.

Now he just needed to find her.

Kohta got to his feet slinging his book bag over his shoulder patted the dog statue he was resting against its head and took his first step towards disaster or salvation.

And froze as a recently known, and incredible unwelcome person stepped out from the scrub and entered the clearing in front of him.

"Hey creepy. How's it going?" Tomoo asked with a smirk.

Behind him his two lackeys stumbled out of the growth and moved to either side of Tomoo. They too were fixing Kohta with predatory stares and they stood tense and ready.

Tomoo watched Kohtas eyes regard them silently and the boy could almost hear the bullies' thoughts. You're alone. There's three of us and one of you and no escape.

You. Are. Screwed.

"Damn" Kohta muttered as Tomoo began to walk towards him and his partners fanned out to either side surrounding him.

Tomoos smile just grew wider as Kohta slowly unhooked his book bag from his shoulder and dropped it on the ground. He took one step back and held his arms out at his sides, tense and ready to fight as the three predators drew closer.

"Lets play" Tomoo said with a crazed light in his eyes.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Lucy heard the shout and quickened her pace through the scrub. Dodging trees and cursing thorny bushes she dashed through the woods knowing she was just a few yards from the clearing.

Her lungs burned and her limbs felt weak and sluggish. Her head hurt and not for the first time she was wondering 'why the hell am I doing this?'

She also wondered what help she could be in any struggle as her flu was kicking in with a vengeance right now.

She burst into the clearing and came to a wheezing halt. She fought to refill her lungs with air, hold herself up, and at the same time make sense of the scene before her.

Kohta was standing atop on of the fallen dog statues, one foot braced on a cracked head and another on the ground as he held his knife at his side and glared at the boys around him. The shout had been one of Tomoos friends who sported a bright slash across his hand and was huddling back shooting hate-filled glares at Kohta.

Tomoo and the other were just a yard from the defiant boy and while the other bully looked wary Tomoo was grinning widely. He didn't look the least bit scared but actually happy.

"Well, well! The freak has some serious guts after all! You got a lot of anger there, wonder why? Is it true then what happened with your family then? Something must have happened to make you what you are now"

Kohta stared back at Tomoo and the hand holding the knife shook slightly. Lucy watched as Tomoo tilted his head and gave Kohta a look of concern. "You look a little sick there mate. What was it really that bad seeing your family killed? Did your daddy beg or did he try and fight for you?"

Kohta shook again and his teeth were bared in a snarl as he took a step forward. "I bet he fought, Tomoo continued, but I guess it wasn't enough or you wouldn't be here now. Was he just outnumbered... or was your dad a wimp? Threw one punch and got laid out flat in seconds"

'What the hell is he doing?' Lucy wondered in astonishment. Kohta looked like he was ready to kill Tomoo and Lucy had a strong feeling he was capable of murder. He held the knife tight in his hand and judging by the thick blood that the injured bully was trying to stem Kohta hadn't been holding back the fatal blows.

"What about your sister? She face her end bravely, show some guts, Tomoo paused and a smirk came to his face as he considered his words, OR, he continued after a snigger, did she squeal and cry like a little baby?"

Kohta was shaking so hard he could have been in a gale. He had stopped snarling and his lips were set in a thin line and his eyes burned with hate. He gave the bleeding boy a warning glare before striding past him towards Tomoo. His knife held low and shining with blood as he advanced on the other two boys.

'He's not worried at all. He's just smiling and watching him with those evil eyes of his. Why? What's he planning?' Lucy thought with worry.

She watching Tomoo carefully, mind racing as she tried to make sense of what was happening before violence erupted.

And then she saw it. Tomoos right hand was in his pocket and hadn't left at all during his speech. She could see the bulge of a bunched fist and wondered what he was holding. He had long baggy trousers and deep pockets… it could be something very long and 'very' sharp.

And then it clicked. Kohta had a brandished knife and a will to use it. Tomoo and his friend hadn't shown the slightest trace of fear despite the wounding of their companion. It could mean only one thing.

'Tomoo has a weapon too! And he's actually going to use it to seriously hurt Kohta. Maybe even kill!'

"Everyone stop!" she screamed at the top of her voice.

All eyes turned to her, surprise in Kohtas, annoyance in the two goons, and anger, then malevolent glee in Tomoos.

"Hey its the other freak! Here to help your boyfriend freak? Gonna stand side by side with him as he faces his enemies just like in those stories we hear about?" Tomoo crowed with an ugly laugh.

"He's not my boyfriend Tomoo. And speaking of boyfriends shouldn't you and you're two 'partners' be finding some bushes to have some fun in?" Lucy hissed back.

"Ew you're gross!" the boy next to Tomoo yelled. Tomoo glared at him before giving Lucy a sneer, "That was crap Lucy. I would have thought you could insult better then that"

Lucy let that slide. She glanced at Kohta and could see he wasn't even looking at her. His burning eyes were fixed on Tomoos back and his hands were white with how tightly he was holding his knife. He looked ready to blow at any moment.

He took a step forward…

"This is stopping right now!" Lucy screamed to get everyone's attention again.

'And to stop Kohta doing something stupid'

"Oh no freak I think it's just getting started"

Tomoo looked back at Kohta and his hand moved within his pocket. Like changing grip.

"Don't do this Tomoo"

The boy laughed, "Don't do what freak? Me and creepy here are just gonna have a little rough and tumble for awhile. Boys do it all the time!"

"And if someone got hurt… would it all be a terrible accident?" Lucy hissed. Now even Kohta was looking at her.

Tomoos eyes narrowed. "Could be. But there might be more then one accident if you don't leave. Right now"

"You wouldn't get away with it"

Tomoos smirk was gone now. Instead just that strange light in his eye was left as he softly said, "I've got away with it before 'Lucy'"

Her red eyes flickering between Tomoo and his silent cronies, Lucy found herself believing it. She had to think carefully here.

"You can't have any more fun with us if you did something…permanent" she said slyly. Trying to appeal to his sadistic nature.

The boy grinned, "Who said I'd do permanent? Unforgettable now THAT'S something different!"

"But if the matron found out. She'd have questions for you"

Now it was Lucy's turn to grin, "She may have people with clipboards come to ask you questions… and do tests"

Tomoo snarled at her and with a burst of movement had pulled a long butcher's knife from his pocket and brandished it at her. He took a step forward and snarled. "But she won't find out. Not if you want that face of yours carved up"

Kohta had started to rush forward, knife raised and an animal whine escaping his throat as the remaining bully stepped forward holding a smaller kitchen knife. The one with the bleeding hand was still too busy trying to stem the flow to get involved but he was watching intently.

"WAIT!"

Movement stopped again and Lucy quickly carried on, "Some things even she won't be able to ignore Tomoo! Beating up another boy, making some threats with a knife that you can later deny that's one thing. Something you can easily worm you're way out of"

Her eyes had hardened to blooded flint as Tomoo stared back suspiciously, "But beating up a girl, Lucy whispered as she slowly raised a hand, and threatening her is something completely different"

Everyone stared at her in confusion, none of them could even begin to guess what she did next. Before anyone could react Lucy slapped herself, hard, right across her cheek.

Her lip broke and she tasted the copper tang of her own blood. The right side of her head flared red with pain but Lucy ignored it and grinned evilly at Tomoos stunned expression.

Suddenly her expression changed to one of horror. She held out her hands as if to ward something off, "Tomoo please don't do this!" she sobbed. And she slapped herself again.

"What the hell?" Tomoo looked on with such confusion it was almost funny. His two lackeys had their mouths open with shock and even Kohta looked freaked out.

"I told him to stop! I begged him matron! But he just kept hitting me! BITCH, BITCH, BITCH! HE CALLED ME!" Lucy screamed in a display of heart rending tears.

Then she punched herself in the stomach. So hard she really did shriek with pain and her knees almost gave out as she doubled over around her clenched fist.

"Lucy"

Kohta spoke her name and started to walk forward, the confusion on his face was great but he was determined to help her. To stop her from doing these strange things to herself.

His motion snapped Tomoo out of his trance and he squared himself up to take a lunge at Kohta when Lucy spoke again, distracting him.

"And do you know what else he did matron" Lucy's words came out dull and lifeless. "Do you know what he did next?" she whispered with her head still lowered and her red bangs shadowing her face.

She looked up and her eyes were calm as they met Tomoos. "He said I deserved it. He said a freak like me was meant to be used. He said it was almost a favor"

The boys all stared as Lucy's hands ran down her body, over her flat chest, sliding down her slight curves before coming to a halt gripping her skirt.

The horned girl smiled. "He said nobody would ever want me so he'd show me just the once what it was like. Like charity" she said pleasantly before she took a firm grip and ripped her skirt apart.

The group was frozen. Bullies and Kohta all stared as Lucy threw the tatters of material in her hands aside. Her skirt was now ragged and torn and easily visible, right up between her pale thighs, was the white material of her panties.

"I told him to stop but he wouldn't listen, Lucy continued as she tore at her shirt. Seemingly completely at ease as buttons popped and the slender flat expanse of her stomach was exposed, "I begged and begged but he wouldn't listen"

Lucy put her hands on her hips and eyed the boys in front of her. It was somewhat amusing to see that most of them were blushing. The two stooges she couldn't care less about but the tint of pink on Kohtas cheeks was kind of flattering.

It was quite a flash of inspiration she had just had. Those lessons about the dangers of the world, and Mr Makamuras hinted... words... towards the class had taught her a lot.

Kohtas eyes met hers and he blushed further. But he frowned and made a motion with his hands as if to say 'what are you doing?'

Lucy carefully dabbed at her bleeding lips, her fingers coming away bright with blood.

"It hurt a lot, but he didn't seem to care" Lucy continued with her strange narration. Tomoos face was thunderous as Lucy reached down and smeared her own blood across the white of her underwear. The others were beet red. The grunts obviously getting excited ('disgusting filth') and Kohta frowning as he tried to figure out what she was doing.

Only Tomoo had twigged it and he was openly snarling as Lucy smiled mockingly at him. Weight on one hip as she cocked her head and studied him.

"Those are the things I'll tell her you did. And she 'will' believe me Tomoo"

"Because rape… is a very serious crime. It would be the final nail in the coffin for someone with as questionable a history as you Tomoo" Lucy finished with a wide taunting smile.

Tomoo was shaking in rage, "I'll kill you" he hissed.

Lucy waved a hand dismissively, "Maybe, but you'll leave a lot of evidence around. Kohta will spill a lot of your blood for the cops to go over and when they see the state I'm in they'll immediately suspect the worse of you"

Lucy eyes were dark with righteous glee, "Even if you got away with it the suspicion will follow you for the rest of your life. The little wonder in the people around you as they think 'did he really rape and murder a poor little orphan girl'?"

Tomoo continued to shake with fury and his two partners were looking confused, "Tomoo what's she talking about?"

Tomoo roared and whirled round, smacking the boy right round the cheek with a fist, "Shut up! Can't you figure it out yourself?"

Before he could blow with rage Lucy quickly walked forward saying as she did, "But if you leave. Right now. I won't say anything to the matron. About what happened or what 'could' have happened"

Tomoo continued to glare at her and Lucy met his gaze with a bland look. Outside she appeared cool and aloof but she knew just how wrong this whole situation could go. Sure if Tomoo snapped and killed her and Kohta he would be caught later for it. But that wouldn't help her would it?

Behind Tomoo Kohtas mind was racing. He had listened carefully to Lucy's speech and decided it was one hell of a gamble she was taking. If that creep decided to go for her anyway…

'Dammit. Why'd you have to show up Lucy? I'm not scared of these fools or death; hell I might even welcome it! But now I'm almost in a panic about protecting you'

The blue eyed boy would be damned if he'd see anyone else he cared for hurt and he remains helpless. (Even though he still barely knew Lucy)

"Well Tomoo what's it gonna be?" Lucy demanded. Her eyes hard as steel as she stared him down. The boys chest rose and fell as his breathing rose. His breath coming in high pitched hisses like kettle steam as he got more and more worked up.

Eyes still glowed with madness and with slow careful motions he raised his knife and took a step towards Lucy. His face was set in an animalistic visage of hate and even the horned girl felt a twinge of fear.

And then he laughed, high and child-like and stowed away his knife.

Lucy blinked with surprise as Tomoo spread his arms wide and gave her smile, "Well played 'Lucy'. I'm impressed despite myself" He turned towards the other two, "Guys we're leaving. Don stop your whining and get moving. You can get the nurse to look at it later"

"And as for you, Tomoo said, his words almost gentle as he looked over Kohta, we'll have to meet up later and catch up ok?"

Kohta didn't answer. His flat cold stare was words enough.

Tomoo grinned and waving his two friends forward made a bee line for the trees. The two stooges, (Lucy was growing to like that term) gave her unpleasant looks as they passed. 'We'll get you later' their eyes said. Lucy just made a "teh" noise as they passed.

Tomoo walked slowly past her and Lucy didn't maintain eye contact this time. Everything seemed to be going well and she didn't want to set him off. Yet she couldn't stop her slight shaking as he drew level with her.

"Oh and by the way freak"

Lucy turned and Tomoos fist caught her in her gut. All the breath was pounded out of her body and all she could do was make a choked whine as she fell to her knees.

Tomoo looked down at her with a sneer, "I wouldn't be able to leave with piece of mind if at least 'one' of those bruises on your bleached skin didn't come from me"

Lucy heard running steps and glanced up to see Kohta rushing forward, "No!" she gasped out as loudly as she could and to her relief the boy halted uncertainly.

Tomoo nodded, "smart boy" he said with an insulting smile. "Later freaks" he laughed as he carried on and disappeared into the scrub. His pleasant humming as he left filling Lucy's veins with black hate as she tried to hold back her tears.

A pair of scuffed trainers settled into view and she glanced up as Kohta kneeled down beside her a concerned look in his eyes. He reached out a hand to help her up and the red haired girl growled, "I don't need your help" she wheezed.

A glint of mirth came to Kohtas eyes, "Humour me" he said and before she could complain he had taken her under the arms and helped her to her feet.

The girl swayed unsteadily, still holding her stomach painfully and Kohta held her gently by the shoulders to steady her, "You ok?" he asked as she winced.

"Fine" Lucy mumbled and turned her head. Now that the adrenaline rush was fading all her self-injuries were throbbing and her split lip was especially painful.

That and she felt uncomfortable being held like this. Weakness was something she had tried to avoid for most of her life and she didn't want to show it now. Even if she felt Kohta wouldn't mock her for it.

"The pain will fade quickly. Cuts sting for a while but the pain is something that can be ignored"

Kohta offered Lucy a scrap of cloth from his pocket and she took it warily. She tapped at her lip tenderly hissing at the pain, "Is that a fact?" she asked feigning boredom.

Kohta nodded his face serious. "Maybe I'm unique. Pain is something I don't have a problem with. But when I… first started… I quickly found that the pain fades long before you stop bleeding"

"Just as well" Kohta smiled as he waved his scarred arm.

Lucy didn't answer and after tending to her lip handed back the bloody scrap and looked around avoiding Kohtas eye. Now that the crisis was over she was at a loss of what to do. She didn't really want to talk what she wanted was to curl up and rest in bed. But she didn't want to blank Kohta either. She had just taken a beating, (mostly by herself) for him.

"We should head back, teachers are probably getting suspicious and we don't wanna get jumped by Tomoo again out here" Kohta said as if reading Lucy's mind. She nodded warily and began to walk back into the forest Kohta following closely behind.

'This day just keeps getting better and better' Lucy thought as she forced her weakened body to trough through the brush. Her torn clothes making her cold and letting whip like branches and sharp leafs itch her bare skin.

'Such is my life'

Kohta watched silently as Lucy led the way. He desperately wanted to talk to her, thank her, carry her for Christ's sake she had torn up her clothes! She must be so weak and cold right now.

Yet he knew she wouldn't appreciate it. Lucy was a fiercely independent person and he already guessed she was used to doing everything herself and would rather suffer then accept help. As foolish as it was he did admire her for it.

'Still dad taught me to treat girls right and I wouldn't have allowed Kanae to walk through a forest in this state. I don't care if she argues I'm helping her out!'

Fortunately for Kohta he didn't have to start an argument as at that moment Lucy stumbled and fell to the earth. She swore loudly and Kohta bit back a grin as he hurried up to her and kneeled beside her.

"What are you grinning about?" Lucy asked with a deadly tone. But her tone and incensed eyes just drew Kohta closer in.

He smiled wider, "Just thinking how unladylike it is to swear like that. Until recently I didn't know girls could be so dirty mouthed"

Lucy glared at him some more and huffed, "Obviously you didn't hang around any strong girls," she said with a sneer.

"There's such a thing as strong girls?" the boy asked with wide-eyed surprise. Lucy shot him an angry look and Kohta grinned again.

"Come on let me help you up"

"I don't need your help!"

"Yes you do now get up"

Lucy growled as Kohta ignored her mad swots and picked her up settling her on to her feet and holding her steady. Lucy just glared at the ground and didn't bother to thank him. She tried to barge past but he wouldn't budge so she was forced to meet his eyes with pissed ruby ones.

"Would you get out of my way!" she demanded.

But Kohta appeared to be lost in thought. His eyes unfocused as he mulled something over and examined her. Suddenly reminded of her exposed underwear Lucy blushed and had to fight the urge to cover herself. She had her pride still.

"I don't think I can carry you for long in my arms" Kohta said to himself.

Before Lucy could question him the boy turned and kneeled before her, his back facing her. He twisted his head round and held his arms out behind him. "Hop on then"

Lucy's blush deepened; "You are kidding"

"Nope. Get on"

Lucy stared for a moment at the inviting back and Kohtas warm eyes. This whole thing was new to her. This would be the closest she had ever been to another human that wasn't trying to hurt her.

"If you try anything" she warned him as she curled her arms round his neck and placed her legs between his spread arms.

Kohta didn't answer just gave a little 'umph' as she settled her weight on his back and with just a little shaking of his legs managed to get into a standing position. He took a deep breath of the cool fresh air, rolled his shoulders a little ("Watch it") and headed out in a brisk trot.

'This is certainly an interesting twist to this day' the boy thought with just a little smirking.

Kohta fixed his eyes straight ahead doing his damn best not to make eye contact. Just keep walking. Don't even acknowledge them. Don't look and they won't comment.

"WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU LOOKING AT!? GET LOST!"

Kohta winced as Lucy shouted at the elderly couple who had been strolling along the monks' path and taking interest in Lucy's torn and bloodied clothes. If they were going to press comment they didn't now and only stared dumbstruck as Kohta passed and Lucy hurled glares of doom at them.

"Could you be any louder?"

Kohta felt a thump against his head, "If they wanna stare and thus gain my attention they should be prepared for me to show my displeasure" Lucy answered. He could practically feel her ruby eyes glaring at the back of his head.

"You don't like peoples attention being on you" Kohta asked softly.

Silence for a moment then, "Its never good". Her words were heavy with sadness.

Kohta didn't know what to say to that. He thought her horns were cool. Simple as. But from he had heard and seen in the last few days it was a viewpoint no one else shared.

"I'm sorry" was all he could think to say.

"You haven't said anything bad to me so far so don't worry about it."

Kohta noted the 'so far'.

"Then how about thank you. Thanks for helping me out back there"

"I was repaying a debt"

Kohta smiled at that. Other boys would grow angry for her harsh tone but he knew it was more then that. She wouldn't have gone through all this for just a debt.

The two continued to walk in silence, but not an uncomfortable one. Lucy herself just held onto Kohta and enjoyed the peaceful pace as he moved. Kohta just walked with a peace of mind he hadn't had in ages, listening blissfully to Lucy's gentle breathing.

'He smells so nice' Lucy thought with a half smile as she breathed deep of his fragrant hair. He must have bathed recently cause he smelled like coconuts. Her arms tightened their hold slightly as she burrowed into Kohtas back, basking in the warm of his body. She heard his nervous cough but paid no attention. He was just so warm…

Kohta was glad Lucy couldn't see his face as he was sure only tomatoes should have such a healthy shade of red. He heard Lucy sigh and nuzzle into his neck, his spine tingling with the contact. Her warm breath over his skin, how her legs held fast across his hips. The warm of her thighs…

'Whoa' Kohta had to shake his head to clear his thoughts, what the hell?

"You ok?" Lucy mumbled sleepily next to his ear.

"I'm fine" Kohta answered quickly frowning in puzzlement. Why did having Lucy on his back like this effect him so much? He had given Kanae and his cousin Yuka lots of piggy backs in the past and suffered no effects other then laughter and fond memories.

'That's cause they were family duh' Ok but he had been around girls before and not felt so strange. Just last month when they had all gone to the seaside together and there had been that girl who hanged around with him and sis all day. What was her name… Kari! That was it, little blond girl, nice eyes. Anyway she and him had hanged out a lot and even held hands and it had been nice but nothing deeper.

'Maybe there's something special about Lucy? Maybe it's the horns?' Kohta grinned as a thought came to him; 'Maybe I'm finally becoming 'a man' as dad always said would happen around this time'

Thoughts of his father instantly brought back bad memories and Kohta did his best to hold back the wave of sadness that threatened to well up again. He looked around for something to distract him, (considering focusing more on how nice Lucy's smooth stomach felt rubbing against his back) when he saw he was approaching the main path leading up towards the orphanage school.

Kohta hesitated. Suddenly aware of how much of a state Lucy was in and how many questions would be asked if he walked through the main gates carrying her on his back like this. Questions they both didn't need right now.

"Lucy?"

"Hmmm?"

"We need to sneak in some how"

He felt Lucy move against his back as she raised her head and took in the building before her. They could both see kids moving around behind the large pane windows going to and from classes. Soon it would be dinner time and the courtyard and grounds would be flooded with kids both of them really didn't want to talk to.

"I know a way inside" Lucy said with certainty. Kohta nodded and listened closely to her instructions.

"Ok just push it in… push it I said… dammit push harder!"

"I'm trying! It's not going in!"

"Oh give it here!"

Kohta stepped back muttering sullenly as Lucy took the screwdriver from his hand and inspected her bedroom window. She jammed the point into the side of the frame wiggling it about with a frown of concentration then gave a "Hah!" of satisfaction when she felt the latch.

With a smug look at Kohta she flipped the latch and pushed the window open. She hid her screwdriver back in the bushes underneath the sill then gave Kohta a half grin, "Boys" she said with a tone of exasperation.

Kohta huffed and folded his arms in annoyance, "I could have opened it if you let me use my knife" he mumbled.

Lucy's grin became a smile; Kohta looked kinda cute with a pout. It made a change to his usual dark moods.

"Come on, she said cheerfully taking him by the arm, lets get inside" Kohta could only blink mutely as Lucy dragged him through the window, ("Lucy stop tugging I'll fall!") and into her room.

Kohta looked around with interest giving in to his curiosity. Straight away he saw Lucy didn't share this room and he was grateful cause it meant no annoying room mate to burst in and start thinking things.

He glanced around as Lucy beat on the window to shut it. He couldn't see any photos, hardly any possessions. Just some school textbooks and gear, clothing (And even then just uniforms) and some odds and ends.

'Is she unable to have possessions or does nothing at all interest her' Kohta wondered as he glanced at her bed and didn't even see a teddy or any doll just white sheets.

"Had a good look around or should I come back later?"

Kohta winced at the harsh tone and looked at Lucy apologetically, "Sorry"

Lucy shrugged, "Don't worry about it"

The two stood in silence both looking around awkwardly and uncertain what to say next. Kohta was sure he should be going, he didn't want to push this… whatever it was Lucy and him had started today. Plus he knew Lucy was uncomfortable being around him for so long, (But he guessed she was like this around everyone so didn't take it personally) and wanted to be alone to get herself sorted.

'And pretty soon the tiredness and adrenaline of earlier is gonna break and then I'm gonna blush like a moron cause Lucy looks SO cute right now!'

Dammit it's happening already.

"Listen I… I need to get myself dressed and cleaned up, I mean its gonna be afternoon lessons soon and I'm a mess and-"

"Yeah! Um yeah course sorry, should have realized"

"Not that-that I'm saying go away just that… I'm saying"

"Go away" Kohta said with a grin.

Lucy glared at him then her lips twitched as she held back a smile, "pretty much"

Kohta smiled and with a sweep of his heel headed to her front door, he opened it a crack peeking outside to see the coast was clear.

Nobody was in the hall so he opened it and then turned to Lucy. Her ruby eyes watched him curiously as he coughed nervously and shuffled his feet, "What is it?"

Kohta did blush then as he reached into his bag and rummaged inside, "I know this is out of the blue but I saw you and I just I-I mean I couldn't…"

Kohta stopped and closed his eyes, he took a deep breath and met Lucy's confused gaze, "You're always sad when I see you and I don't like it. You think your ugly and so do a lot of people here but I think they are idiots"

He drew a sketchpad from his bag and after leafing through a few pages showed Lucy a drawing which she hesitantly took.

"I draw only things that are beautiful enough that I have to try and capture that quality. And you're one of them" Kohta said with frank seriousness.

Lucy didn't reply just stared in awe at the picture Kohta had drawn. It was of her. Her sitting on some grass with her legs tucked under her knees and holding Caneene. She was wearing some kind of gowny dress instead of a uniform that looked all chaste and pure like something a saint would wear.

But what really stole her breath was the expression Kohta had drawn. She was happy. Laughing with a wide smile as her puppy licked her face and her eyes were bright with joy. Kohta had paid special attention to her face from her bangs of hair sweeping across her face due to a light wind, and her horns standing proud atop her head.

She looked up at Kohta her face blank and the boy squirmed uncomfortably.

"I know its rushed and… a little weird that I drew you but I just wanted to show you that you can smile and when you do its great and you should do it more often and-"

Kohta stopped to draw a breath but before he could continue to ramble a pale slender hand reached out and covered his mouth, "umth?"

"Thank you" Lucy whispered and Kouta was amazed to see faint moisture in her blood eyes as she smiled at him.

"yor wel-ump"

Lucy snorted and withdrew her hand and Kohta coughed suddenly feeling very warm.

"May I keep it?" Lucy asked with a tremble.

Kohta nodded and smiled at her, "Of course you can, just don't show it of to everyone though I might get embarrassed"

"Hah! You'd be embarrassed?"

"Well I have a reputation to protect now. I'm the resident psycho and I can't be seen doing nice things can I?"

"In that case maybe I should hang it out in the main hall?"

Kohta gave her a sly look, "We both know you'd never do that"

Lucy shook her head closing her eyes for a moment; "This is mine now. I'm not letting anyone take it from me"

Kohta considered her words feeling touched, he opened his mouth to say something but Lucy cut him off.

"And now get lost"

Kohta raised an eyebrow at her rough words and Lucy sneered and gestured at her clothing, "I need to get changed don't you think?"

Kohtas mind raced, just say it man, just say it!

He blushed furiously but managed only a slight squeakiness to his voice as he said, "I think you look nice"

Lucy blinked in amazement then blushed hotly herself. Her embarrassment quickly turned to anger as she gave him a dark look, (Kohta was going to patent them as 'glares of doom') and pointed for him to go.

Despite that Kohta only gave her a cocky grin as he stepped out of the room. He paused at the doorway and spun round to face her hands raised as she glared at him.

"You and i don't have classes together do we?"

"Your point?" Lucy asked tapping her fingers on the door frame.

"So we can't see each other in lessons sooooo… perhaps we could meet up at lunch tomorrow and… eat… together?"

Lucy remained silent as Kohta grimaced with nervousness and all he could hear was the tap-tap-tap of her fingers as she mulled it over.

"I'll think about it" she answered then drew back into the shadows of her room and closed the door on Kohta. Closed not slammed.

Kohta stared for a moment before a wide grin split his face; he arm pumped the air and hissed a little "yes!" before dancing about a little.

Finally getting a grip he hefted his bag and with a last lingering glance at Lucy's door he made his way down the corridor wondering how late he would be for maths. Then wondering why he even cared.

He hummed his song and for the first time since he came here he felt there was something worth living for after all.

Lucy leaned her head against her door listening with a smile as Kohta danced about outside. He was such a goof.

Once she heard him leave humming that music box tune she moved away from the door and started to fuss around her room. She stripped out of her clothes, looking over the rips and cuts then with a sigh throwing them into a corner. They'll have to be scrapped.

She scratched a horn sighing again at the pleasant feeling as she considered what to do next. She had one more class in the evenings, literature that she supposed she'd have to go to. She just wondered how much of a shouting she would get when the teachers caught up with her though.

She held up the picture Kohta had drawn for her and with a small smile thought of Kohta. He was so nice…

'I have a friend' she thought and was amazed at the warmth she felt at that thought.

She hugged the scrapbook close to her chest closing her eyes tight and smiling. She even giggled a little as she recalled Kohtas blushing and stuttering.

He's so cute…

She looked up with misty eyes and caught her reflection in the mirror. Unclothed her whole pale body and contrasting gory hair was revealed and Lucy was surprised to find she didn't feel revulsion.

She saw herself smiling and she realized that there was someone in this world who thought she wasn't ugly. Who thought her body was something that looked 'nice'.

Lucy stared at her reflection enjoying the warmth reflected back, "Maybe there is something worth living for after all" she whispered.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The next day Lucy was heading towards lunch mulling over all that had happened yesterday. If it wasn't for meeting Kohta she'd probably just grab some food and hide out in the forest for half the day.

As she suspected the matron and a whole line up of teachers held her captive in an office and took it in turns to yell and insult her. Bad enough she insulted a teacher, bad enough she didn't show up for a meeting with the matron but vanishing for half a day and somehow ruining one of her uniforms was one mistake too many.

'Not a single one even asked how I got a cut lip or bruises' Lucy thought with a scowl. When she woke up this morning her right cheek was a puffy pink and her stomach was yellow and painful. But not a single 'adult' even noted her pain.

She knew she couldn't say how she got the injuries or Tomoo 'would' be calling again. And this time he wouldn't settle for one punch to the gut. But it would have made her feel a little better about the world and people in general if someone had cared.

Still after that tirade she got on with lessons and this morning hadn't been that bad. Other then the fact that her flu returned with a vengeance this morning. Waking up covered with sweat and feeling like the sorriest girl in the world she had struggled to find the energy to start the day.

She entered the lunch hall ignoring the chatting kids and groups that passed by her. The ones that bumped into her she shot filthy looks but didn't have the energy to shout at them.

'I hate this place'

The horned girl stared into space as she entered the lunch queue. Already she could hear the whispers around her as the other orphans and homeless started to talk about her bruises. Before the day ended she'd have been raped, beaten and almost murdered by a janitor called Clive according to the gossip vine.

'Pathetic kids. Humans are all such useless creatures' Lucy thought with familiar hate. She glared ahead of her as she pointed out for some rice that was slopped onto her tray by the lunch lady. The old hag gave her a grin with way too many gaps as she wiped her nose with a crusty sleeve.

'You shall be among the first to die at the hands of the Lucy Empire'

"So shall I die of salmonella, bubonic plague, or herpes today?"

Lucy blinked and jerked her head round to stare at the boy behind her. Kohta had a thoughtful look on his face as he rubbed his chin and examined the food on selection.

"So many ways to go so little time, he winked at Lucy, what do you suggest miss Hades'?" he asked the lunch witch.

The old lady gave a dirty grin; face scrunching up with all her wrinkles as her piggy eyes stared at him. She plunged a scum-crusted ladle into a tub of bubbling brown sludge and dumped it in Kohtas bowl.

"Stomach cancer for you shorty" she said with a leer.

Kohta waved a finger at her, "excellent choice" he beamed. He took his tray and giving Lucy a 'follow me' look plunged into the main hall.

Lucy followed with a haughty expression and soon the two found a table out of the way in one of the halls corners. Two small boys were sitting just a table away and began to whisper to each other when the two sat down. Kohta ignored their not-so-secret peeking and started to sort out his cutlery.

Lucy however was having none of it. Her head was throbbing in pain and she felt completely justified in unleashing a factor ten death glare on the two twerps.

"Chat somewhere else you slime or I'll smash your teeth in" She snarled.

Both boys gave her deer in headlights looks of fear then with a screeching of chairs hurried to a table further away.

"You have such a way with people" Kohta said with a chuckle.

Lucy didn't answer. Her head still hurt and besides Kohtas food smelt really bad. "You're not really gonna eat that are you?"

Kohta gave her a disgusted look, "Are you kidding? I'll be dead in ten minutes if I eat this mess"

He looked around slyly then reached into the bag he always carried around with him. Lucy stared in surprise as he began to pull out some snacks and crusty rolls of bread.

"I swiped some stuff before I talked to the witch. Luckily for me she was busy spitting in some other kids food to notice me"

"But wouldn't some other kids have seen you do this?" Lucy pointed out.

Kohta shrugged, "If they dob me in I'll knife em"

Lucy tilted her head eying Kohta strangely, the boy ignored her and took a bite out of a roll, "God that's nice, he offered her another, want one?"

Lucy looked down at her own slushy rice. It wasn't a hard choice.

Surprisingly the warm bread tasted nice. Maybe it was prepared by one of the attendant chefs out back?

"So how has your day been?" Kohta asked while poking the sludge interestedly with a fork.

"Horrible" Lucy said flatly.

Kohta stopped examining his food and looked up at Lucy. His brown eyes were frank and open as he saw how tired his friend looked.

"Tell me about it"

For the whole lunch period the room was abuzz with conversation. Screeching girls giggling and laughing in their tight groups. Boys making stupid jokes and rough housing. All split in groups and factions of noise and vulgarity.

But in one corner it was an ocean of calm as a dark haired boy, skinny and slightly tanned but with bright blue eyes smiled and made small talk with his friend. She, a red haired girl with horns and blood colored eyes, laughed back at his antics and talking openly and without fear of the boy opposite.

For the both it was something new and wonderful. Kohta hadn't felt so peaceful and close to someone since his family was taken from him. Lucy for her part had never had a human being show such interest in her and speak to her as if she was an equal instead of something disgusting.

As the break period drew to a close it was Lucy who first stood up to gather her things. Kohta did the same, a disappointed look on his face that he hid from the red eyed girl. People left in groups and droves and Kohta and Lucy lingered until they were among the last to leave. Kohta hefted his bag and glanced around uncertain what to say next.

It was Lucy who broke the silence. "Meet again at supper?" she asked with yearning.

Kohta gave her a relieved smile, "I'd like that"

The happiness was infectious and soon both were grinning again and chatting as they left the hall and navigated the school to their next class. When their paths split it was with great reluctance they parted but the promise of meeting again kept the warmth burning in their hearts.

"I'll see you at supper Lucy!"

The horned girl smiled back at his kind face. He was so sweet.

"See you then"

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Days past and the two new found friends settled into a pleasant routine. Every day they would share a table for their meals and breaks and talk about the events of the day, their disgust and hatred for the people around them, or just idly chat about whatever was on their minds.

For Lucy she had arrived at a golden period in her life. Although the rest of her life remained the same she found even the bleakness of the orphanage couldn't smother the happiness she felt. She'd catch herself thinking of kohta and smiling in class for no reason. She'd been given funny looks by half the class and Tomoo had made a few snide comments but nothing fazed her. The boy was a ray of light in her dark world. He'd even done some more drawings for her, most of dogs or other animals and none of her strangely enough. But she enjoyed his gifts and had even done some of her own doodles under his teaching.

The ridicule of her peers and fellow orphans meant nothing. They just didn't matter anymore.

'At last I have someone who likes me for me. Who enjoys my company and isn't grossed out by my horns' the insults of the scum around her couldn't compare to the way Kohtas face lighted up when he saw her.

And she bet she did too when she was around him.

The only downside to this new friendship was that Lucy had to deal with the teachers on a more regular basis. She didn't know why but wherever Kohta went there was always a teacher nearby, especially at lunch. It was irritating at first that whenever she met up with Kohta the matron or some other equally annoying teacher would take a seat a few tables away and pretend not to watch them.

Kohta said it started when he came back from that day at the clearing. When he and Tomoo had almost fought and Lucy had stopped them. Ever since then he was being followed but he didn't know why.

Lucy dismissed it after a while. She and Kohta still had fun together and as long as the teachers just watched and kept their distance she wouldn't have to hurt them. (Although she'd have to make the first blow count as she wouldn't be making a second or third with her constant flu)

It had been just under a week now since she and Kohta first met and Lucy was getting changed in the girls locker rooms. She had just had PE and was now feeling the worst for wear.

She was beginning to think something was seriously wrong with her. It had been over two weeks now and the dizzying bouts of weakness had still not gone. She was spending more and more time sleeping and had even dozed off a few times in class. She wondered if she should tell the nurse and get checked out but she still remembered what the woman had said when she first became ill.

'She's still got a high temperature. It's been days now'

'I don't like her. She creeps me out. So quiet and she doesn't play with the other children'

Lucy took out her school clothes from her locker feeling the weight of the silence around her. All the other girls had hurried out and not even noticed her once. Snapping on her skirt and glaring at the floor she thought more about her illness. No. She wouldn't go back asking for help again. That day she had found the courage to tell the adults what she was feeling and they still had treated her badly, talking about her when they didn't think she could hear them. If she hadn't slunk out the window and gone for a depressed walk she wouldn't have found Caneene. Funny that that night it was an animal that showed more concern then her own species.

'Speaking of which I need to figure something out about him'

She had been saving food from her meals to give to Caneene every night but she was beginning to really starve herself. One person alone couldn't feed them both and she had to figure something out soon.

'I could ask Kohta for help. He's been giving me funny looks and asking me how I'm feeling recently' It was funny but Lucy was glad Kohta didn't just demand to know what was wrong. He was obviously concerned and had trouble hiding it but he respected her enough not to force the issue. He was waiting for her to ask for help and she was relieved about that.

All her life she had fought not to appear weak and to show vulnerability in front of Kohta was something she'd have to work up to. She couldn't drop her defenses just like that.

'I'll wait till there's no other alternative then I'll speak to Kohta' Lucy decided.

Done changing, the girl reached inside the small locker for her bag and groped empty air.

'wah?' Lucy frowned as she examined the empty locker. She was certain she'd left her school bag inside when she got changed.

"Looking for something freak?"

Lucy's blood ran cold and immediately her pulse quickened as she turned round and saw Tomoo leaning against the doorway smiling at her.

Lucy was wary. She straight away guessed what Tomoo was all about.

Still nothing wrong with delaying things.

"This is the girls locker room you know" she said coldly.

Tomoo smirked, "No girls here. Just me and something that's not even human"

'Insults right from the beginning' Lucy thought contemptuously.

"What do you want Tomoo?"

The boys grim became sly and crooked a finger in a beckoning gesture, "You to come follow me"

Blood colored eyes gave him a disbelieving look. As if she'd follow him anywhere.

Tomoo caught her expression and his crossed his arms and cocked his head thoughtfully, "If you wanna get your bag back you'll come with me"

Lucy felt her stomach knot in panic. How'd he get her bag? Why hadn't she thought of this earlier and hidden it better? What was Tomoo planning?

She thought of her school gear, some odd clothes and the few drawings Kohta made for her that she liked to carry around. All of them being pawed over by Tomoo and his vermin friends. She felt her blood boil with rage and her panic eased due to the heat of the emotion.

'I have the upper hand now' Tomoos eyes laughed. "You coming?" his lips asked.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

"Oh look. Someone's spilled milk all other your bag"

It took all Lucy's self control not to scream or cry as she stared down at the splattered mess that was all that remained of her bag and belongings. Her shoulders shook and her hands were curled into tight fists as she stared blankly at the dripping table surface.

She tried to ignore the sniggers of Tomoo and his friends and assess the damage. The bag could probably be cleaned and repaired but everything inside would be ruined. She thought of the drawings Kohta had painstakingly drew and nervously shown her for approval and her heart sank with despair. Why did these 'animals' have to do this to her?

"Not gonna say anything freak?" Tomoo asked with a curl-lipped sneer as his friends' high-fived over Lucy's head.

Freak… it was all she was to these bullies…

Why couldn't they leave her alone? Why did they have to torment her so much? What had she done to them?

'Why did I have to be born with horns?' the crimson haired girl wondered for the thousandth time.

So focused on her thoughts Lucy didn't notice Tomoos frown of annoyance at her ignoring him. With a nod at the other two he moved forward and with a whispered "heads up freak" gave her a shove.

Lucy yelped, eyes wide with surprise as she was shunted to the side. She tried to get her balance but a foot that she hadn't noticed resting against her leg caught her and brought her crashing to the ground.

"Oh man did you see her drop!"

"All wide eyed and surprised. Hah! Man that was funny"

"Gonna cry yet freak?"

Eyes screwed tight in pain, but more to hold back her tears, the horned girl refused to reply and began to lever herself up.

She shrieked again as Tomoo curled the hook of an umbrella round one of her pale legs and yanked back hard slamming her into the ground. Lucy felt her cheek throb with pain after the impact and above the ringing of her ears she could hear her tormentors laughing and laughing and laughing.

'I hate them so much… I hate them…hate them hate them I hate them I hate…'

"Teacher! Tomoos picking on someone again!"

"Oh shit! Come on lets go!"

Lucy looked up in surprise as the girl Miko called out for help from the doorway. She jumped aside as Tomoo and his cronies ran by yelling after them. "You should be ashamed picking on a girl!" she shouted at their retreating backs.

Lucy managed to get her feet under her and with some strain got back up. The girl came to her side giving her a worried look as Lucy stared into space.

"You ok?"

Lucy nodded silently.

Miko looked down at the table and gasped in shock when she saw the mess over Lucy's bag. "Those big bullies I can't believe they get away with this!"

"Everyone in this place is unhappy. And since they're unhappy they're probably looking for someone worse off then they are" Lucy whispered in a deadened voice.

"Huh what was that?" Miko asked with a confused expression.

Lucy shook her head and looked away. She closed her eyes and willed back her tears. Could this place get any worse?

"Lets get this sorted then"

Lucy looked up in surprise as Miko picked up her bag pulling a face as milk spilled out. The girl looked it over then gave Lucy a reassuring smile; "Come on lets go to the wash room. I think I can get most of the mess out"

Lucy stared for a moment then nodded again. She felt she should be saying something, 'I don't need your help' maybe. Yet this second show of kindness from Miko, a girl she had only meet twice no less, had completely thrown her.

'It must be Kohta, she thought wryly, because of him I'm not telling her to get lost but letting her help'

"Come on follow me" Miko said with a bright smile as she skipped out of the room. Lucy followed more sedately and with much less skipping.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

"It looks much worse then it is. Most of the milks gone now and left out to dry in a breeze the smell should go too"

Lucy watched intently as Miko wrung out a cloth that she had been using to soak up the milk soiling her bag. The girl had worked diligently for the last ten minutes cleaning up the tattered rucksack, speaking cheerfully to Lucy, and talking about odd things. Lucy for her part had only made one or two small contributions to the conversation but had mainly been watching and wondering why this girl was helping her.

"I'm sorry but all your books and clothes are ruined. Well the clothes could be washed again but all the papers gone mucky. Sorry"

"Don't be. You didn't do this" Lucy said sadly as she looked over towards the wash room bin. Inside were most of her schoolbooks and Kohtas sketches. How was she gonna explain this to him.

What if he got mad? What if he was upset with her?

Lucy felt a strange and uncomfortably tightness in her chest. Although she had only known him about a week the thought of Kohta being mad at her hurt a lot.

'Calm down Lucy you're panicking for nothing'

Miko set down Lucy's bag and gave the horned girl a thoughtful look, "You're really very quiet aren't you?"

"Not always" Lucy said defensively.

Miko smiled, "Its ok. I think you're just very shy"

Lucy didn't know what to say to that. She settled for shrugging as an answer.

Both girls looked up as a bell sounded. Supper was starting.

"I have to go" Lucy said in a rush as she grabbed her still damp bag. Kohta would be waiting for her at their table.

She stopped before leaving the wash room hesitating at the door. Miko had been so nice to her… she couldn't just end it like this.

With great reluctance, (though due to fear not arrogance) Lucy gave Miko a shaky smile, "Thank you for your help. I… I appreciate it"

Miko beamed back at Lucy; "You're welcome Lucy"

Lucy fidgeted a bit before waving a hand towards the doorway, "Someone's waiting for me" she mumbled.

Miko nodded and then with a nervous cough said, "You know you don't have to be on your own all the time. Whatever you need I'm here for you"

Lucy was dumbstruck. Her first thought was to brush this off as some kind of trick but the shaky way Miko made her offer and the nervous sincerity in her eyes made her pause.

'Two kind humans in one week. Must be Christmas early'

"Thank you, Lucy responded slowly, I'll… I'll bare that in mind"

Then before this conversation could get any weirder she high tailed it out of there.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Kohta hadn't been mad about his drawings, though he had wanted to cut Tomoos throat for bullying Lucy. However some strong words from her made him restrain himself.

It wasn't that she wanted to pretend nothing happened. Just that she knew that if they confronted Tomoo something might go wrong and the horned girl would be sooner damned then allow anything to happen to Kohta because of her. No next time she'd be more careful and ready to punch Tomoo in the face if he tried anything.

It wasn't Kohta or even Tomoo that was the strangest thing to happen to Lucy over the following days. Life continued as normal, (Thankfully after Mikos defense of her Tomoo had been a little wary in starting anything. Though it was only a matter of time) Kohta and her continued to meet and Lucy grew more and more attached to the boy. She had even caught Kohta watching her when he thought she wasn't looking and blushing when she asked what he was doing.

He'd mumble something and look away and though Lucy didn't press it the red eyed girl went away to her classes with a fluttering heart. Life was good!

But even so the strangest thing happened one night when a long day had ended and Lucy was curling up under her bed covers trying to sleep. Her flu had struck again and this time she had been throwing up in a toilet for the last half hour before Kohta had carried her to her room. Obviously she had threatened to disembowel him if he didn't put her down but the stubborn blockhead hadn't listened.

Lucy sighed, a mixture of annoyance and admiration, and burrowed deeper into her covers. She had never believed in a god. Nor prayed to one but she was starting to beg him every night to take away this terrible sickness or end it for good.

'But knowing my luck I'll have to suffer for years before it ends' Lucy thought sardonically.

She closed her eyes and felt at last sleep draw its shroud over her senses. Even with a horrible illness pure exhaustion could still get her asleep.

Before she lost all consciousness her thoughts were of Kohta and the breakfast they would soon share.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

'Again I feel…'

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

She was alone in a void. All around her was darkness and hollow. A vulnerable young girl cocooned in the expanse of her own soul.

But here she was safe. Here she could welcome the change and grow without anyone to hold her back.

'Again I feel... I…'

Lucy raised her hands, crimson eyes staring with a strange anticipation as she contemplated her pale skin. Sitting alone and bare in this wasteland she was aware here, more then out in the real world, of how alone she was.

But the sadness was changing. As she drew in all that pain, all that anger, all that helpless rage in her body it was being channeled and focused into…

Into what?

'Power'

Her hands began to stretch out before her as a sensation she couldn't understand. An impulse she would never truly figure out took hold of her mind and soul.

Her eyes slide shut and unbidden the images of her constant humiliation by the scum of this earth flowed through her synapses. Again and again she saw replays of her beatings, her taunting, her constant reminders that she didn't belong in their world.

'Then I will change the world'

The hatred that filled her didn't surface this time but instead was replaced with something else. A feeling of hope… hope for a life of freedom and retribution.

Her arms rose up reaching to the sky, reaching for a future without pain or sadness. A future where she wouldn't have to fear again. A future where she could be free.

She couldn't reach it… she just didn't have the reach. Her young face grew heavy with a frown as she sat up on her knees and stretched harder, fingers and hands arching into the blackness above her trying to reach that small ball of light shining bright above her.

Her lip quivered and tears welled behind her eyes as the hope began to weaken and die. Up there was salvation and she couldn't reach. That light represented her freedom and she just couldn't get there.

She wanted to stand. Stretching as far as her knees allowed wasn't enough. Yet the weakness of her body was apparent even here and she just couldn't stand.

In her bed in the physical realm Lucy's body began to toss and turn in her sleep, small mewls of frustration and fear escaping her lips. Her sheets and pajamas stuck to her sweating skin as her heart pounded in delirium.

Back inside the naked girl tried again to stand, to gain some greater height, but she couldn't. The weakness that had plagued her for so long was preventing her getting to her feet and touching that light.

'Its all their fault'

Her eyes opened sluggishly. Yes. It was their entire fault. She probably would have healed a long time ago if those fools back at the home had shown some kindness. Helped her more with her illness, given her more food for her and Caneene. Just tried to help her instead of letting her get worse and worse.

'The pain is a catalyst. An aid for the change'

She didn't want to be alone any more. She didn't want to be afraid for all her life.

'Then change it. Take control of your life. Show those fools who has the power'

"I can't reach it" Lucy whispered despairingly.

'Yes you can. Can't you feel it? Something is changing'

Lucy continued to strain upwards. Her vision was becoming fuzzy and black around the edges with the agonizing concentration. She 'could' feel it. Something was changing. She couldn't reach the ball of light but… that… didn't… matter…

"Something is changing. Changing inside me…"

The girl went taunt. Every sinew stretched to its limit, all her muscles locked in place and her arms still reaching high above her. Her blood eyes hooded in an expression of serenity and then a smile grew across her lips.

"I. Can. Reach"

Her world erupted in a maelstrom of ecstasy and as Lucy opened her mouth wide in a scream of triumph and pleasure her eyes stared in a daze at the light above her she felt the power. She felt the strength that flooded through her body.

And in those last seconds before the dream faded she saw four ghostly arms with reaching fingers race up into the sky and grasp the ball of light.

And hold it tight.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Kohta gazed with some wonder as his friend skipped into the lunch hall humming merrily and with a bright smile on her face. Usually she slouched into the hall scowling at anyone who made eye contact and staring at the floor. Now she was collecting her food from the queue with a distant smile on her face and beaming eyes.

He wasn't the only one who had noticed this strange behavior. Already the mood in the room had changed as children talked more softly and dozens of eyes followed the smiling girl. Even Tomoo with his bully gang eyed the girl strangely.

"Good morning Kohta" Lucy said with a radiant smile. Kohta stared with an open mouth for a moment before shaking his head sharply.

"Upla! Lucy! Um good morning... how are you?"

"Awesome. That's what I am" Lucy replied as she took her seat and sorted through tonights gruel.

Kohta eyed her for a moment more before shrugging and taking a spoonful of yogurt. He pulled a face and carefully pushed it aside. yuck.

"So why are you in such a good mood today?"

Lucy's grin grew wider and she leaned forward across the table towards Kohta, "touch my forehead"

Kohta blinked and with just a tinge of pink hesitantly reached across and gently laid a palm across his friends crown. Lucy's skin felt smooth and soft and he could feel her breath against his wrist.

"Um I can't feel anything" he said. He drew his hand back thought he had to remind himself not to sigh in disappointment.

"That's the whole point, Lucy said with glee, you can't feel anything!"

"Well I'm glad we've figured that out now what do you mean exactly?"

"My illness is gone! I woke up this morning and my fever is completely gone!"

Kohta looked into his friends beaming face and couldn't help but smile back. "That's good news" he nudged his yogurt towards her, "have a yogurt to celebrate".

Lucy's face fell and she looked hurt, "its not funny"

Kohta quickly apologized, "Sorry Lucy I didn't mean to make fun. That is really good news. Heh at least I don't have to carry you anywhere no more" he said with a laugh.

"hmm there is that I suppose"

Lucy gave Kohta a haughty look before starting to eat. Kohta watched her and had to decide their was a change about her. Ever since he met her she had been seemed so fragile and her weak bouts had worried him many times. Yet now she seemed to glow and her ruby coloured eyes where burning with energy as she gazed straight at him.

Wait straight at him?

"You know if you really do wanna take a picture I'll stand and pose for you"

Kohta blushed again and quickly looked away mumbling some rubbish. Lucy smiled at him and took a bite of her food, "You're such a spaz" she said while chewing.

Kohta didn't answer and went back to munching his meal in silence. After a while he started to make idle talk and Lucy was happy to reply. She laughed as Kohta made his antics and light conversation, his jokes and his touching empathy for her.

After waking this morning and finding her head clear of pain and her limbs strong and mobile for the first time in ages she had initially felt joy like never before. But then she had taken in her room and that joy had faded to uncertainty.

She remembered that strange dream she had had. Being naked in some dark void did seem weird now she was awake. And the whole reaching for that light thing was some thing so metaphorically tripe she was amazed to have dreamed it.

But the joy when those... arms... had reached up and taken hold. As if she had grown whole new body parts to overcome the restrictions of her body. She truly did feel so sublime at that moment.

She would have dismissed the whole thing as some strange vision her unconscious mind had created to explain her victory over the illness that had been tormenting her.

But then she had seen them. And that idea had been blown out the airlock.

First she had seen them on the underside of the bed above her own. She had stared uncomprehendingly for a moment before slowly examining the rest of her room. Covering the walls, the floor, and even the ceiling as well as the furniture. Dozens of them trying to cover every inch of her room.

Hand prints. Lots and lots of hand prints.

She had touched them and found they were made of some strange kind of goo. Like gel or some light fat. They faded away after a few minutes but Lucy didn't move from her bed until they had all vanished.

Had she really grown extra arms? Had she really reached beyond her body with a strange new power while asleep?

She spent the next hour trying to pick up stuff in her room with her new arms until her face was red but nothing happened. Anyone who came in would have thought she was having a fit with how tight her face was as she bared her teeth, fists clenched and squinting at a slipper on the floor.

Still no matter what she thought or tried no arms appeared and the girl was forced to give up.

Still as she got changed, delighting in how easy it now was to slip a shirt over her horned head with strong hands now, she didn't forget what she saw. Lucy believed what her eyes had seen and wasn't going to dismiss it as fantasy. She'd just have to wait and see what else happened to her.

Still even if nothing more changed she was happy to be so full of life. Maybe it was a sign of things picking up for a change.

"Lucy? You awake there?"

The horned girl started in surprise. Kohta was staring at her questionably and she smiled reassuringly, "Sorry just went of into my own world for a second"

The boy nodded and carried on about some of his homework, (the two friends had decided that maybe they should actually do some school work as they had each other to help them out. It gave them more opportunity to meet up and talk) and Lucy added her own thoughts and ideas on how to finish it.

As Kohta thanked her for her insight and started to nose through her own science homework, (he was much better at that then her) she felt for the first time at peace.

Yeah life was good.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Life was very, very, hungry.

Lucy felt her stomach clench around non existent food and growl its displeasure. The throbbing pain had been getting worse these last few days and she didn't know how much more she could take.

Sitting before her Caneene wagged his little tail excitedly as he chowed down on a chicken leg and a large helping of fries. The food was practically Lucy's entire lunch for the day but the little dog needed it more then she.

"Oh boy... I don't think either of us can keep going on like this" the red haired girl murmured as Caneene finished his meal and licked her outstretched hand. He whined anxiously as he heard her stomach rumble and his owner wince in pain.

"Its not your fault. I chose this" Lucy reassured him as she picked him up and cuddled him. The dog yipped and licked her face as the girl sat back against the tree trunk she had been resting against. She looked up at the bright stars overhead and sighed again as her puppy nuzzled against the warm of her body.

When had this all started? That day she had woken up with the hand prints that was it. She had felt so perfect that day. So full of energy. She had even had the strength to play chase and tag with Kohta, running the boy down and tickling him ferociously when he had made some jokes about her.

The boy had yelled for mercy and Lucy had punished him some more before letting him up... then the backstabber had brought her down and started to tickle her instead.

After holding out as long as she could she finally gave in and surrendered. And then the two of them had laid still with him on top of her. Hearts pounding and faces flushed as they stared face to face.

Lucy felt herself blush at the memory then scowled in annoyance. That stupid matron though had to have shown up at that point and yell at them for 'unsuitable behavior'. Stupid old bat.

Anyway. After that she had got together her supplies and gone to see Caneene as it was starting to get dark now. But when she got to his home she had immediately found something wrong with her puppy.

Caneene would normally race over to her, trying to leap up into her arms and lick her face as soon as he saw her. Yet that day though he had barked happily and wagged his tail the little dog just laid still in his little hollow under the tree.

Lucy had quickly rushed over to her friend and after feeling the heat of his fur and hearing his hoarse breathing she knew he was ill somehow.

"Don't worry Caneene I'll take care of you I promise" Lucy said determinedly to her sick friend. The puppy just looked at her with such frank trust that Lucy knew she'd do anything to make him better.

So for the last three days she had been making Caneenes portion of food much bigger then her own and even managed to get hold of some extra blankets and spare water bottles so he could rest more. Of course she knew it was only a matter of time till some porter noticed her stealing stuff and had her reported. Oh god the teachers would just 'love' any excuse to look further down on her alright.

But the horned girl didn't care. All that mattered was her friends safety and well-being.

Still having practically nothing to eat for three days had robbed her of what strength she had regained. Kohta, bless him, had noticed her hoarding more food then normal and practically demanded to know what she was doing after she stumbled the other day.

"Dammit Lucy tell me what's going on! Let me help please!"

"Its none of your concern. Leave me alone."

"Lucy that's not-"

"I said leave me alone!"

Lucy closed her eyes to hold back the heaviness she felt. Dammit Kohta I know you want to help but you can't its too dangerous!

She knew that he was being watched and if he started sneaking away to help feed Caneene he would get in even more trouble if he was caught and Caneene, her sweet friend, would be taken from her forever.

My dear Kohta... you just have to stay away this time. Please just stay away.

Lucy held her little puppy close to her chest, both finding warmth and security with the other. "Don't worry Caneene, Lucy murmured in his fluffy ears, I'll find a way out of this"

And she knew of one person who, though it would be a great risk, could help her.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Miko was absorbed in a book she was reading and Lucy stood and watched from the doorway silently, unnoticed by the other girl.

Doubts plagued her mind. Could she trust this girl? Would Caneene be safe around her? What if she reported this to the matron?

"Huh? Oh its you. You ok Lucy?"

Lucy came out of her musings with a small gasp and blushed as Miko stared at her in confusion. The pretty brunette looked confused and a little worried and Lucy looked away bashfully from the quiet sympathy.

"I... I have a problem" Lucy had to force out the next words from tight lips, "I need your help"

"No way! You have a dog!?"

Lucy shushed the excited girl and Miko covered her mouth in embarrassment. "Sorry" she squeaked, then looked fearful, "But you know if Tomoo and his friends find him they'll torture him!"

Lucy had thought about that many times. Waking up sweating after horrible nightmares times.

"I know. Thats why I'm asking for your help. Tomoo and his fools don't bother you"

"What about your friend Kohta? Can't he help?"

Miko asked with such innocent curiosity that Lucy held back a retort and warily answered, "yes. I could. But he's been watched too much by the teachers so he can't get away to help"

Miko shook her head softly, "Poor guy. I just feel so sorry for him"

Lucy remembered their last conversation and the same sentiments Miko expressed for Kohta. In all that had been going on Lucy hadn't thought much about Kohtas horrible history. She hadn't felt was her place to ask Kohta about it. He was obviously trying his best to it behind him and she didn't want to make him remember it.

But here was a chance to learn more without putting Kohta under anymore stress. She leaned forward, overcome by curiosity, "You said his parents were murdered right? How' it happen?"

Miko looked slightly uncomfortable but Lucy's piercing gaze compelled her to speak, "Well before he came here he lived in Akita. Its a big city a long way from here. But anyway his dad was a dockworker or something and while doing a late shift he saw someone being murdered. But not a normal murder but an assassination of some important mobster!"

"Kohtas dad saw it all and made a run for it and went to the police right. He told them what he'd seen and they said they needed to take him away to a safehouse or something until the trial like? Anyway his dad went home with a cop to get his family and Kohta and his sister were at home waiting for him."

"But! (Lucy flinched) The mobster who killed his rival! He wasn't gonna let himself get fingered at trial so he found out where Kohtas dad lived and rolled up there with his whole gang just as Kohtas dad and his police escort arrived at the house"

Lucy was wide eyed with amazement as Miko continued, her voice now sad and quiet, "It was a bloodbath. The cops tried to protect Kohtas dad and sister but they were gunned down and so where his family"

"What about Kohta?" Lucy was on the edge of her seat with horror.

"He was inside the house and saw the whole thing. When they came inside to get him he hid and before they could find him more cops started to roll up and they had to run for it"

Miko shook her head sadly, "They found him later. I heard he wouldn't speak or say anything since the night of his family's murder. They wanted to put him in the trial in his fathers place but cause he was in such a state of shock they couldn't. So until he recovered they brought him here to stay with us"

"Didn't he have any other family? No one to take him in?"

"Nope. He didn't have anyone else in the world... he really is like us now poor thing"

Lucy sat back heavily in her chair. God she didn't know it was that bad. She just assumed his family had been killed in a car crash or something similar. To have seen his loved ones gunned down before him and helpless to do anything! She was amazed he hadn't shut out the world completely or killed himself. She probably would have in his situation.

'Actually he was going to kill himself. He doesn't do as often now but the cutting would have lead to something more deadly in time' Lucy found herself thinking with deathly empathy. If she hadn't befriended him he'd be gone by now.

She winced at how arrogant that sounded. She didn't mean it to seem like that in her thoughts. In truth Kohta was saving her as much, perhaps more, as she was him.

"Hey you ok? I know its sad but at least he's alive right?"

"Sorry I was off again" Lucy said while rubbing her eyes. No moisture there, nope, none at all.

"I wonder if he'll be leaving soon"

Lucy's eyes snapped open at Mikos words, "What do you mean!"

Miko cringed and Lucy regretted her harsh shout. "Sorry. Um what do you mean he'll be leaving soon?" she asked more gently.

"Well... now he's talking again the matron will have to report it to the police. And then they'll send someone down to collect him and put him in court. I mean that's the only reason he's down here ain't it"

Lucy felt as if Tomoo had punched her in the gut again. No. He couldn't leave her. Not her friend. He couldn't abandon her and force her to return to that dark world she had inhabited before he came into her life. He wouldn't!

"He wouldn't!"

Miko stared at her in shock, "Wouldn't what?" she asked shakily.

Lucy shut her eyes and took a deep breath. Ok control Lucy. Control. That's it.

"Nothing" she hissed.

Her chair screeched as Lucy shot to her feet and made for the door. She paused at the doorway with one hand on the open frame and glanced back at Miko through the shadows of her red hair.

Miko for her part was shaking like a leaf. This was the second time Lucy had looked at her like this, with such a horrible and unnerving gaze, and the girl was caught stiff by it wondering what she had done wrong.

For a moment Lucy ducked her head low, her shoulders tight with tension, then she relaxed and when she looked back at Miko there was a friendly smile on her face.

"I'm sorry about that. You just... surprised me. That's all. Will we still meet later to go see Caneene?" Lucy asked with a much more reasonable tone of voice.

Miko felt uncertain and Lucy must have sensed it because she added a "please" with such a desperate undertone that the girl couldn't refuse.

"Thank you so much Miko"Lucy said with a warm gaze and walked out lightly. Miko watched her go then released the breath she didn't know she had been holding.

She pitied and liked the girl, but the mood swings and the... strangeness that emanated from her was something she was having trouble getting used to.

Miko sighed as she packed away her books and with much more grace stood up, tucked away her chair, and headed to the doorway.

Her eyes were on the floor as she wondered about Lucy. So she didn't see the arm that blocked the doorway and her escape until it was right up against her face.

"Gah!" Miko let out a sound of surprise and stepped back from the sudden obstacle. The owner of the arm lowered it to his side and stepped into the room staring at her intently.

"Wh-what do you want!?" Miko stammered. The boy didn't answer just stepped forward until Miko was pressed back against the desk.

Her heart hammering in her chest the young brunette watched with fear as the lips of her captor twitched up into a smirk. Teeth and fang dull and white as his mad eyes saw her nervousness and reveled in it.

"I think you and I need to have a talk" Tomoo whispered sinisterly.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Lucy wondered the halls her mind filled with thoughts of her dear Kohta. Memories they had made together, moments they shared, secret thoughts she had had of him, and fantasies of the many possible futures that lay before them.

And one she couldn't stop thinking of was the one where he left her behind.

She knew he wouldn't willingly go. After she had left Miko behind, (she felt another stab of regret at having given the girl a second death glare. She had to control those better...) she had stormed about the place snarling at anyone who looked at her funny. She had eventually wondered over to the the block of classrooms that was furthest from the main building in order to think.

He wouldn't abandon her. Not of his own free will. The only way he would go would be kicking and fighting. Dragged away from her by social services or the police, screaming his defiance and biting and scratching at his abductors.

The image alone was horrible enough to make Lucy clutch a hand to her chest in distress. She'd be fighting alongside him of course but eventually they'd be forced apart. Maybe forever.

'Please not forever...'

The last week and a half had been the best of her life. The best of her whole entire life and it was a sad revelation to understand this. But still this boy, this Kohta, who had strayed into her life from nowhere was now as bright as the sun to her and she did not want to be pulled away from him. She couldn't bare to lose his warmth.

Lucy thumped the flat of her hand against a wall in frustration. It wasn't fair dammit! Why'd this have to happen to her? Why was it that every time something good happened it was torn away from her by forces beyond her control!?

She felt tears prick her eyes. A wet sting. If only she had the strength to fight off the world. To hold Kohta close to her breast and never let go.

If only she had the strength...

"Hold on one moment. I think I heard something out in the corridor"

Lucy froze in shock. That was the matron! What was she doing here?

Red eyes darted around the corridor she was standing in. She had chosen to wander theses halls of classes as they weren't in use until tomorrow, Thursday, when the children had their science lessons. There should be no reason for anyone to be here.

She heard movement and glanced at the wall her hand was still resting against. The other side of it was the main science lab and she could hear footsteps of someone getting closer.

The door was just a few meters down the hall from her. She had to hide! Glancing around feverishly she saw an adjacent classroom and dived into it as the door ahead swung open.

The lab door was already open but Lucy didn't have time to close and lock it. Instead she ducked down under one of the large desks used for experiments and hid amongst the tangle of chair legs ducked up against it.

Feeling jittery with nerves Lucy stared at the open doorway, her eyes narrowed with concentration then she saw a figure step into the doorway. It was indeed the matron, the tall haughty woman was hard to miss anyway. She was in her thirty's and had a serious and hard face with arrogant eyes behind her specs. She wasn't ugly and Lucy admitted her figure was nice and her face was handsome, but there was a hardness about her that made everyone feel edgy around her.

"Orlena? Did you find anyone?"

Lucy's eyes narrowed deeper. That was Mr Kimuichii. What was he doing here alone with the matron?

'Orlena's a funny name though' Lucy thought to herself.

"No. There's no one here. Must have been an animal or something"

Mr Kimuichii stepped into sight. He glanced briefly into the room then focused his attention on the matron. His face looked worried, that alone was enough to make Lucy edge forward for a closer look. She had only seen the slimy teacher look disgusted or mocking, usually of her, and this new expression had her interest.

"Should we tell the boy?"

'huh?'

"No. The police have asked us not to worry him with the news just yet. For all they know it could be just a false lead and he doesn't need any more stress at the moment"

"Orlena I'm not sure"

"What are you worried about? Spit it out Mitsura!" the matron snapped.

"The boy doesn't listen to authority. He won't stay inside. And when we try to follow he gives us the slip. Perhaps we should tell him the truth just to ensure he stops straying outside"

"He isn't safe outside the school grounds" Mr Kimuichii added in a whisper.

The matron was silent. She appeared to be thinking carefully. "We can't tell him the truth. I feel that if he knew he wouldn't want to stay inside at all. He'd try and escape and find the murderer"

"Don't be absurd. He's only twelve Orlena"

"You think that matters to him? I've watched that boy and he doest fear anything. Even Tomoo, who we both know has serious problems, can't scare him in the slightest. The boy is practically a zombie and I think the thought of his own death would mean nothing to him for the chance to avenge his family"

Lucy's breath hitched and she quickly clapped a hand to her mouth. Thankfully neither teacher heard and both were silent in their own thoughts.

Lucy was smart and it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out who they were talking about. 'Its Kohta. They're talking about Kohta!" the horned girl thought with a tremble.

This talk of not being safe and avenging his family. Did the murderer know Kohta was here? Was he even now scouring the town trying to find him? Would he try and attack Kohta inside the home itself?

"He's changed thought. Lucy seems to have brought some life back into him"

The matron snorted. "As hideous as it is those two seem to connect quite well. Shame. I read the boys file and he seemed like a bright young lad with a good future before he came here. I doubt his friendship to the girl will improve that though"

Lucy bristled at the matrons comments. How dare that old hag say such things! Lucy fought back her temper and stayed still though her hands curled into fists at their next words.

"He must have weird tastes thought to like her. I mean come on those horns are so gross. She'd be a looker when she's older but I doubt anyone could stomach her with those things growing out of her head"

The matron gave Mr Kimuichii a scathing look, "Would you keep your own disgusting thoughts to yourself for two minutes while I think"

Such was the venom in her voice that the toady fell silent and Lucy was grateful for that at least. Not only was she practically vibrating with the urge to shoot out of her hiding place and sock him on the chin. But his comments on how she'd look when older had both stung and disgusted her. If that perv ever looked at her funny again in the future he'd be getting a black eye that was for sure.

"We'll keep a closer watch on Kohta, the matron said slowly, even if I have to watch him myself. He will not be allowed to leave the grounds for any reason. I'll call the police tomorrow and find out what's going on. Until we get an all clear he is to stay inside, under watch, and NOT be told that the very man who killed his family may be looking for him"

Mr Kimuichii nodded and glanced at his watch when it beeped, "Fifth period just started"

The matron cursed and turning on her heels marched out of sight, the male teacher hurrying after her. Lucy waited until she heard the door to the outside open and shut before crawling out from her hiding place.

She inched over to the door peeking round the corner to make sure the coast was clear. She didn't see anything so she fell back against the door letting it take her weight as her shoulders slumped with exhaustion.

So the man, no. The monster who had killed Kohtas family, her bestest friend, was now here searching for him?

Lucy had half a mind to hunt him down and punish him for what he had done but common sense quickly took over. 'I'm just a twelve year old. A small and weak one at that. What harm could I do to a fully grown killer?'

As she acknowledged this she understood with sharp clarity why the matron didn't want Kohta told.

He wouldn't care that he was small and young. And that his opponent was a full grown man. He'd hunt him down and throw himself against that might without any hesitation. His own fate wouldn't matter when confronted with the man who had torn his life away from him already.

"I can't tell him" Lucy whispered to herself, "It's too dangerous"

Though she couldn't bare to see Kohta come to harm she already felt the nagging guilt at concealing something from her friend. He trusted her and she trusted him and they had already shared so much with each other that neither of them would ever reveal to anyone else.

'Its for the best. With any luck this will just be a rumour and Kohta will never need to know anyway' Lucy thought to console herself.

"One things for sure though, the horn tipped girl muttered to herself as she started to walk back to the main building, he isn't going outside anymore without me watching him. Even if I have to tie him up and beat him black and blue he won't put himself in danger until the threat has passed"

Of course she didn't know how she could carry out that threat without telling Kohta the truth but when the time came she'd figure something out. For now she had another lesson that she had already missed the start of, (meh) and after that was lunch and during that hour she was gonna show Miko the way to Caneene and introduce the two.

It would be the first time she didn't have a lunch break with Kohta so she'd be sure to see him and explain what was going on. She hoped he'd understand.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

"So let me get this straight. You ask this girl to help you with Caneene, this girl who you've met only once or twice. And me, the guy who's been asking to help out, gets the cold shoulder?"

The scorn on Kohtas face only deepened Lucy's scowl. "Yeah I could take you along but then I might as well just march right up to the matron and say oh! By the way. I have a little dog that I've been keeping for the last month or so can I keep him? Bring him into my room? Maybe have some extra food to feed him with?"

"Maybe the matron will get him a little doggy basket for him to sleep in. Maybe she'll pet him and invite all the kids round to play with my little puppy and we'll all live happily ever after"

Lucy's sarcasm just made Kohtas glare even hotter. His teeth were gritted tight as he forced out, "I can give the teachers the slip you know. It isn't that hard"

Blood red eyes scanned the orphanage courtyard. Lucy had told Kohta her plans outside away from listeners but she could easily see two or three teachers watching them from various rooms. The matron wasn't joking about increasing the security on Kohta.

"You can avoid then once or twice but sooner or later they'll want to find out where you go and they'll track you down and find Caneene. I cant risk that Kohta!"

"Hey! That isn't my fault! I didn't ask to be followed around everywhere! Don't you think I'm sick to death of being spied on too!?" Kohta hissed frustratingly.

The thin boy looked away from Lucy, his dark blue eyes glaring at the figures watching him behind glass, "I want to help you and Caneene. I don't know why they are doing this to me"

Kohta sounded so sullen and depressed that Lucy felt her heart clench painfully. The urge to tell Kohta the truth was almost overwhelming, she didn't want to lie! Not to him. But she knew if she told him it would be him in danger instead of Caneene.

"Maybe you could give us some of your food to share with Caneene? Even if you can't come visit you can still help him" Miko hesitantly suggested.

The girl had followed Lucy outside and had been hovering nervously behind the crimson haired Lucy while she and Kohta had argued. Now she quailed and held her hands tight as both sets of dangerous eyes fell on her.

"If I want your opinion I'll ask for it. Until then don't talk to me" Kohta whispered with a deadly undertone.

Miko looked down fearfully. Lucy whirled on Kohta furiously, "Leave her alone. Don't take out it out on her just cause you're pissed off!"

"We don't need her. You don't need her. Let me help you Lucy" Kohta argued back. His words were forceful but his eyes pleading.

Lucy took a step back. An unnerved expression on her face. This whole conversation was making her uneasy. This desperation in Kohta was something she hadn't expected.

"It's just easier this way Kohta. I can't be with you all the time"

Kohtas eyes narrowed to slits. Lucy's attempt to console him having no effect. The horned girl had to resist the urge to step back and instead glared back hotly. Kohta had no more right then anyone else to look at her like that.

"Fine" Kohta hissed, "On your head be it"

The boy stalked off back inside the home leaving Lucy staring in baffled confusion at his back. What the hell just happened? Why did he get so upset?

Part of Lucy, (a very big part) wanted to follow him and apologize and demand an explanation at the same time. But she didn't. She couldn't. Caneene was the more important at the moment.

"Lucy?"

Red eyes turned to regard Miko. "Yes?"

"M-maybe we should reconsider this? I mean Kohta seems really upset and I don't want to become between you two-"

"What do you mean between us two?"

Miko shivered again at Lucy's harsh tone and the red head softened her expression, "Sorry. I don't mean to be snappish"

She looked away in thought a moment, "Me and Kohta usually hang out together... apart from each other... we don't really have anyone else"

'Maybe that's what's upsetting him? Cause its always been just us and now Miko is here?'

"He needs you"

Lucy shivered this time. Miko had a habit of saying things like that.

"I need Caneene too. And Kohta can't help me" The girl looked uneasy as she met Miko gaze, "only you can"

The girl smiled back, "Then lets go and help him. I bet he's a really cute puppy! What breed is he?"

"Um. I'm not sure"

"What! Oh well its a good thing I 'am' here. I know all about dogs"

"Please tell" Lucy said with a smile. She started to leave the grounds and Miko followed along babbling about dog facts.

Lucy Listened to her newfound friend... yes friend... waffle on about dogs and decided that no matter how upset he was she'd get through to him somehow.

If they could find each other then they can both find new friends as well.

'But still... you will always have a special place in my heart Kohta'

"WOW! HE'S SO CUTE!"

Caneene yipped and barked excitedly as he was held by Miko. Lucy watched happily as her little friend licked Mikos face, the other girl giggling at his attention.

She had been worried at first that Caneene wouldn't like Miko, but just as with her the girls chirpy manner was too much and the little dogs wariness at first was quickly thrown aside as he played with this new girl.

"Here boy. We got you some food" Lucy murmured.

With a bark the puppy jumped free of Mikos arms and raced over to Lucy. He gave her a lick on the nose before munching on the sandwich she held out for him.

'Still he may like Miko but he knows who's his best friend is out of the two of us'

"Remember. You can't tell anyone about him"

Mikos smile was warm and open and her eyes held nothing but innocence, "Sure thing. You can trust me Lucy"

Lucy stared for a moment before a slight smile went across her lips.

"Yeah..."

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The metal moved. A shine of light on steel. A sharp note of pain, a subtle gasp. Red fluid flowed, a faint trickle. And all the pain in his heart was smothered by the pain in his flesh.

Kohta lightly shivered as his knife cut into his arm. How strange that pain was something to be welcomed. That the flow of blood down his tanned flesh, (That was steadily becoming pale day by day) was something to feel joy instead of concern.

Kohta giggled. The rush of pain and endorphins at every cut a undeniable reminder that he was still alive. Only the living could truly feel such things and it was a great comfort to Kohta.

He watched the droplets fall the long distance to the ground, some splattering leaves and branches with red in their journey to the earth. The tree he was nestled in was good shelter and Kohta was confident that no one would see him or his blood.

'Just as well I suppose as they still haven't stopped looking yet'

Blue eyes narrowed distastefully as the boy saw the matron and another teacher stalk the grounds looking for him. Kohta hadn't strayed far. He was literally right on the edge of the homes play fields that ran round the back of building. He had just found the tallest tree at the edge next to the forest and climbed right to the top.

He smirked. There was no way they'd find him and it amused him to watch their frustration. Ha! The matron was shouting at the other teacher. Little worms cowering was so amusing.

Kohta cut again feeling his senses muddle so wonderfully. He wondered why this fools were constantly following him. He had confronted the matron but her answer had been simple and blunt; "Its not your business to know or ask just to obey"

That had earned her a few choice words. And a choice detention for him.

Kohta grinned again. He hadn't shown up though. That was probably part of the reason she looked so pissed.

No earlier he had met up with Lucy and Miko as they returned from feeding Caneene. Well he had watched from a distance but not allowed them to see him.

He didn't know why but that girl Miko worried him. Her cuteness, her innocent... something was off in the way she moved and acted around Lucy.

It was like she was... guilty. Feeling guilty of something.

Her smiles were always strained and her eyes shifty. Kohta had lived almost his whole life with an annoying and mischievous younger sister so he knew how a girl could look guilty while trying not to be.

Kohta smiled. Kanae was always playing pranks and stuff on him and the only warning he would get was her fixed smile and moving eyes before the bucket fell on his head. He laughed despite the danger, basking in a warm memory.

Kanaes laugh... her smile... the way she always argued with him yet was always happy to be around him... seeking his approval about everything...

'Look Kohta! Its a pretty sea shell!'

Kohta smile faded and he closed his eyes fighting to get Kanaes face in his mind. There. There she was. His sweet little sister. Her small face beaming up at him with bright eyes and damp brown hair. Her hands and skirts muddy as she had been scouring the beach from one side to the other searching.

Searching for something for him.

"It does look nice Kanae" Kohta whispered. He remembered his words were grudging back then.

'Well its settled then! This is gonna be your birthday present!'

Kohta had smiled for her and graciously accepted the little pink shell. She's only eight he had thought, she searched hard for this little thing so the least I can do is pretend I like it.

"Sniff" Kohtas eyes became sore with moisture. Oh sis...

"I mocked you then. In my selfish thoughts. But though all I wanted was the latest games that dad was gonna get me I didn't realize how much that little shell meant to you. You searched all day for one that was perfect enough to give to me and I never properly thanked you for that"

Kohta reached into the pocket of his jeans and pulled out the little shell. He gazed at it quietly, it really was pretty. Pure pink with small wavy lines of white tracing across it. Perfectly curved and smooth.

It really was a wonderful present from a wonderful sister.

Kohta held the shell close to his heart. Dad... Kanae... I miss you so much...

This loneliness that had gripped his heart in ice ever since they died had thawed a little these recent weeks. His friendship with Lucy helping to ease the pain. He'd even stopped cutting until now.

Until now. Kohta peered at the bloodied knife in his right hand. Why had he done this again?

Loneliness... that was it.

Lucy had taken away some of his pain and today his daily pain killer, the lunches they 'always' shared, was canceled. Instead Lucy went off with 'her', Kohta thought of her with such venom, and he was left alone again.

So he hidden himself away again and done what used to to calm him down.

Except now he felt like a fool. He had stormed off in a rage, watched Lucy return smiling with Miko and felt sick with anger, cut himself, and now that he was calm he felt like an idiot.

Lucy was right. They couldn't be together 'all' the time. The girl needed to be alone sometimes and wouldn't always be there to comfort him. It was selfish to even think that.

Dammit he cared for Lucy, more then he imagined he could. And for Lucy to make more friends was a blessing. All her life she had been shunned because of her horns. Kohta knew how to make friends easily and she didn't and when she had found another person who liked her he went and gave her grief.

"I'm such a fool!" Kohta hissed. He almost slapped himself but remembered doing that while holding a knife was a bad idea.

He had to apologize. "I will apologize!"

So determined to make amends Kohta cleaned his knife on a scrap of cloth he kept for that. Carefully hid away his shell. Then gazed out across the field to see if he had the all clear.

It was starting to get late. Dusk was already setting when Kohta come up here so he had definitely missed supper. He hadn't noticed the matron or the other teacher leave but they weren't anywhere in sight so he assumed they must have gone back inside.

'I'll just have to apologize to Lucy tomorrow at breakfast" he said with a sigh.

The boy paused as he spotted something. He leaned out and squinted for focus and gave a hushed "huh?" of surprise.

It was Miko. The girl was out in the middle of the field. And she wasn't alone.

"Tomoo..." Kohta felt his blood race and hands clench to fists at the sight of that hated filth. The bully and his ever-present lackeys were surrounding Miko. Kohta prepared to race to the ground and defend her if that scum tried anything.

But what happened next shocked Kohta into complete stillness. They started to talk. Not any arguing or threatening but just talking. He couldn't hear them but Tomoo said something and it looked like Miko was laughing.

Laughing?

Kohta let out a breath he had held in a hiss as the two continued to talk. Now Miko looked uneasy, as if something was worrying her. She was staring at the floor with a guilty look on her face.

Tomoo reached out to her and took her shoulder in a gentle hold. He appeared to be saying something persuasive because afterwards Miko nodded her head and looked determined about something.

Though it seemed to be still unsettling her the fact she was still going through with whatever she was planning with Tomoo had Kohta VERY worried.

'Just what is going on here?'

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Lucy woke the next day with a contented smile on her face. The girl lay back in her bed just enjoying the softness of her sheets and the refreshing breeze from her open window. The other day she had snuck in through her window as she always did after feeding Caneene but last night had been different.

Lucy let out a sigh. For the first time in ages her stomach didn't say hello by roaring with hunger and it was refreshing to be without pain first thing in the morning.

And it was all thanks to her new friend...

"Miko. You always kept butting into my life yet every time you did it was to help me"

The girl smiled, a tiny expression of happiness across her pale face. "I never imagined humans could be so nice. All they did was hurt me over and over. But... first Kohta... and now you. Maybe I was wrong? Maybe they really are good 'and' bad people?"

Lucy laughed at her own change of heart. For so long she had hated everyone in this world and now she was reconsidering? What next? Rainbows and pink clothes? Ha!

"Feh. As if." Lucy said with a smirk. Yawning widely and getting a good stretch in the girl tossed aside her covers and sat up in bed.

The girl glanced down at her white body, idly wondering if she could get a hat trick and start to look like a girl instead of a boy, then shrugged and started to get changed.

The girl listened to the birdsong outside and the sound of leaves rustling. It was gonna be a nice day she was sure.

'The only thing that could darken it is Kohta'

Lucy needed to confront him and get an apology. She cared for him so much... so much...

Lucy snorted. But still he didn't have the right to insult her new friend! Miko had done nothing wrong! It was just bad luck that Kohta couldn't help her and Miko could. It didn't mean she was gonna toss him aside now she had a new friend.

"Though that's how the idiot thinks I bet" Lucy muttered.

Clipping on her skirt, ('seriously can't the matron give me something else to wear?) the horned girl wondered how it would go at breakfast.

And she hoped Kohta wouldn't mind too much when she invited Miko to share breakfast with them.

Kohta watched silently as Miko and Lucy ate their breakfast together. The brown haired girl was jabbering away like mad and Lucy was nodding and smiling along.

Yet as relaxed as Lucy looked Kohta could see her ruby eyes darting around furtively searching for something.

Searching for him.

"I'm sorry Lucy but I can't come over just yet" Kohta whispered. It hurt him to keep back, he could see Lucy was looking for him and when Miko looking away to wave at someone she knew he saw his friends mask crack a little. The girl took a breath, like she was holding back a sob and craned her neck around to give the whole hall a once over.

'I'll see you soon. I have to warn you' Kohta promised.

He glanced at Miko. His blood boiled at seeing this 'faker' sitting in HIS chair and lying to his friend. Yet he couldn't confront her right now. He could see Tomoo watching Lucy closely and until he knew what they were planning he couldn't risk it.

But he would get to the bottom of this. And he was pretty certain he knew what they wanted.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

"Gah!"

Lucy let out a shriek of surprise as a hand grabbed her arm and she was yanked down into some bushes. She felt a warm body against her own and immediately punched it. Hard.

"Lucy its me! "

Lucy paused with her fist raised as she squinted at the body under her. Kohtas familiar blue eyes and ragged black hair came to focus and she lowered her weapon. "Kohta what the hell are you doing?" she demanded.

The boy rubbed his stomach and winced at Lucy, "Being attacked by a psychotic girl at the moment" he said ruefully.

Lucy blushed. "Sorry" she mumbled as she took his hand and helped him to his feet.

"Don't worry" Kohta answered as he smiled at her. Once standing the two stared at each other silently both unsure what to say.

"I missed you!" Lucy and Kohta said as one.

Both of them paused for a second then laughed. "Glad we feel the same way" Kohta chuckled as he watched Lucy giggle. God it felt nice to be with her again.

"Great minds think alike right?" the horned girl replied as she smiled at her friend. 'I missed you so much Kohta'

Kohta for his part was just so happy to be with her again. They'd only been separated for a day but he hadn't realised how much it would hurt being away from her. It had felt like there was an animal gnawing at his heart every second he was separated from her.

He felt his breath hitch as the force of his sorrow hit him so suddenly he couldn't brace against it. Seeing his friends beautiful face up close just made him remember how badly he had treated her. He didn't deserve her kindness...

"I'm so sorry Lucy" Kohta whispered mournfully. He sniffed and felt his body tremble with the emotion that gripped him. "I am just so sorry for what I did Lucy"

Still holding hands Lucy felt Kohtas shaking and on instinct she took his soft hand in both of hers. She held it tight and gave him a watery smile, "That's all I needed you spaz"

Kohta laughed wetly and closed his other hand over Lucy's. "Thanks pal" he whispered as he met her blood red eyes.

'She's just so beautiful and special that I must have been insane'

He cared for her so much... how could he had even 'thought' of causing her pain?

'I could forgive anything Kohta... you're the only one that ever made me feel so special'

He was the one who showed her that kindness was something she was worthy of. She felt beautiful and whole when he smiled so sweetly at her.

The two children, both on the verge of adolescence, felt unable to tear their gaze from each other. Both felt their hearts start to race and a strange compulsion start to take over them.

Kohta licked his lips nervously and saw Lucy's eyes follow the action intently, he felt warm but not hot. Shaky but not weak. It was like being on the verge of going down that ramp on a rollercoaster but while standing still.

Lucy was just thinking to herself how very... beautiful her friend looked. His pale skin. Lined face that wasn't marred by the signs of trauma but rather enhanced. The pain and sorrow that was painted on him just made her want to hold him tight and protect him. Yet for all the torment strength and kindness till shone from his blue eyes.

"Lucy I..."

The crimson haired girl felt her breath hitch, "What is it?" She tried to sound gruff but her words came out in a whisper.

Kohta took a breath and through his nose caught a scent of strawberries and cream. Lucy was always clean and fresh but he had never noticed how appealing that was.

He stared at her pretty face. Their was a strange fearful yearning in her eyes and he bet his were the same. He wanted to do something but he couldn't put it into words.

"I... I..."

"Hey give me the ball! It's my turn!"

Kohta and Lucy gasped and stepped apart. As soon as their hands broke contact it was as if a link had been severed, a spell cancelled. Both blushed hotly and refused to make eye contact suddenly overcome with embarrassment. Both trying to work out in their heads what had just happened.

What could have almost happened...

'That was so strange. I... I've never felt so warm and tingly. Kinda scary actually' Lucy blushed hotter at her own thoughts and kicked a stone distractedly.

Kohta glared at the two kids who had ruined the moment. Two young boys, about eight or nine maybe? Were playing with a football in the nearby field. They'd hadn't spotted him or Lucy in the tree line and were too engrossed by their playful wrestling to notice anyway.

'Damn kids'

His annoyance was the sting he needed to remember why he had jumped Lucy on her way to Caneene in the first place.

He had to warn her.

"Lucy listen. I have something important to tell you and... I know it will be hard to believe. But you 'have' to hear me out"

Lucy eyed Kohta suspiciously, "Go on"

Kohtas blue eyes flickered towards the two boys playing nearby. "Not here. Come on we'll go to the shrine. No one will interrupt there"

Kohta turned and began to walk into the forest. He took a few steps until he realised he wasn't being followed.

He looked over his shoulder at Lucy. He frowned when he saw her staring at the floor with a tight expression. "Lucy?"

The horned girl took a breath, she looked up and gave Kohta a strained smile, "The shrines a long way. Why don't you tell me here? Less time wasted with walking eh?"

Kohta tilted his head towards her, his eyes searching. "Why not go to the shrine? We've played there before. We can hang out for a bit" he asked.

He saw Lucy hesitating. Why was she looking so worried and torn?

"Please? I... I know I've been a jerk but I really wanna catch up again" Kohta laughed and rubbed his head sheepishly, "You know I'm terrified of people seeing me being nice pal"

The crimson haired girl looked away, "Its not that Kohta" she whispered.

Kohta was silent. His worried gaze was question enough.

"The matron would be hunting for you. She might interrupt" Lucy said softly. Her eyes were hidden by the shadows of her bangs and Kohta struggled to see her eyes. He couldn't read her this way.

"You know we can ditch her. Lucy... what's wrong?" Kohta replied just as gently.

"I... Kohta I don't want to see you get hurt"

Lucy's shoulders were shaking. He heard her sniffle and his heart ached. Why was she upset? What was wrong?

"Lucy?"

She snapped her head round. Red hair flying around her face as she took a ragged breath. Her eyes were bright with tears and twin lines of wetness traced her cheeks as she sobbed. She looked so broken...

"Kohta you can't go outside! You can't leave the grounds! You cant!"

Kohta was shocked. Both by Lucy's shout and her crying. He had never seen her so upset.

'She looks like she is holding something inside. Something that is now tearing out of her and she doesn't know whether to let it go or keep it hidden'

"Why?"

"Its dangerous" Lucy hissed.

"Why?"

Her small hands clenched into fists. "Please! Just trust me you can't go outside! Its not safe for you!"

"Why?" Kohta pressed on for the third time.

Lucy shrieked and covered her face with her hands, "Please Kohta. I-I don't... I can't... if I tell you you'll hate me!"

Kohta found it unlikely that anything would cause him to hate his friend but whatever this secret was that Lucy held it was hurting her and enticing him. He had to know the truth now.

"Lucy I won't hate you. Now what is this all about? Tell me please" he asked carefully.

Lucy lowered her hands. Her tears were gone and a determined expression was etched on her face. She looked at Kohta with flinty eyes.

"No"

Kohta raised an eyebrow, "Then I'm going to the shrine"

"No... you're not"

Now Kohta looked incredulous. His concern vanished in an instant and he sneered at Lucy. "Stop me then"

"Don't make me"

Kohta snorted. Even before his family's death and he had... changed... he had never taken well to threats. With a mocking wave at Lucy he turned his back on her and started to walk away.

Hump Kohta yelled as he was tackled round his midriff and brought to the ground. He swallowed a mouthful of leaves and was too busy choking to resist as Lucy grabbed hold of him under his arms and began to drag him towards the home.

Spitting the last of them out Kohta growled and braced his legs against the ground. Lucy grunted as she was brought up fast and glared at Kohta as he smirked at her over his shoulder.

"My turn"

With a powerful push Kohta lunged forward. His stronger body powering ahead and Lucy shrieked as she was now the one being dragged along by Kohta.

Kohta had always known Lucy was far too light for her age. Ever since he had first given her that piggy back ride he known she had the weight of a feather. It was kinda harsh to use his much more powerful body against her but she had annoyed him now.

"Kohta stop!" Lucy yelled kicking up mud and litter as she tried in vain to pull him back.

"Sorry Lucy but I'm having to much fun to quit now!"

Lucy snarled. 'drastic measures then' she thought.

She pulled back with all her might halting Kohta for a moment. While he was stalled she positioned one of her legs between his. Pulled back a touch. Then swung her knee up. Hard.

"Urk!" Kohta made a tiny grunt. Just a little sound. But his eyes crossed and his body went limp as a jellyfish as he collapsed into a heap on the ground. Lucy caught her breath as Kohta curled up fetally holding himself and whimpering.

"W-w-why... L-Lucy wh... I?

"Only way to stop you" Lucy huffed. She saw Kohtas eyes blazing furiously at her. "You wouldn't stop!" she said defensively.

"And I'm... not... going... to... now! Tell me what's going on Lucy!"

Lucy gnawed her lip in agitation and looked away. Kohta swore as he struggled to his feet glaring hotly at her as he did.

"Tell me!" he shrieked.

"He's here! Ok! The man who killed your family is here!"

Kohta froze completely. The pain faded. His breath slowed to a halt. All he did was stare silently at Lucy with a glazed expression. His blue eyes wide with shock, disbelief and mouth agape.

After a few moments his lips closed and he blinked. After that the glazed look vanished and a coldness settled in his eyes.

"Would you repeat that please"

Lucy trembled. Kohtas voice was so tight and barely controlled. She could see his set jaw and bet he was grinding his teeth behind his pale lips.

"I-I..."

"Repeat! That! Please!" Kohta roared.

"I... I overheard the matron talking" Lucy murmured.

"The matron talking" Kohta repeated flatly. The look in his eyes was practically sub zero now.

"She. She said that the police think that the killer is here. In this region. But they're not sure. But until they know the matron was told to keep you inside and watched at all times"

Kohta was silent for a few moments. His slow breathing the only sound other then the nearby boys laughter. Lucy stared fixedly at the ground. Her heart pounding with fear and anxiety.

The horned girl was amazed at her own fear. She had never let anyone raise their voice to her like Kohta had but with him... it was so different.

She didn't know how to handle this. The open disgust and hatred in his eyes, the eyes of a friend, was too much for her to deal with.

"So that's why she always had someone watching me"

Lucy nodded. "Kohta I wanted-"

"And that's why you wouldn't let me go out with you and Miko to see Caneene" Kohta carried on in the same flat tone.

Lucy was silent this time. She merely nodded again.

Kohta took a breath and closed his eyes tight. "My fathers killer..."

The boy shivered, "My sisters murderer" he whispered, now with a sob added.

"I'm so sorry Kohta" Lucy said in a rush as she took a step towards her friend. She could see he was starting to shake badly and she raised a hand to touch him.

"And you didn't even have the decency to tell me any of this Lucy?"

Kohtas shaking stopped abruptly. Lucy halted just a step from him, hand outstretched and eyes wide. Kohta opened his eyes and nothing but cold hate shone in them. "I thought you were my friend Lucy" he whispered.

"I am!" Lucy squeaked.

"A true friend wouldn't hide something this important. A true friend would have told me as soon as she found out"

Lucy let her hand fall to her side. "I was afraid"

"Afraid?"

"Afraid you'd do something stupid. Dammit Kohta you're being stupid right now!" Lucy argued hotly.

'That's it. Get angry girl. That's what I need' Lucy thought.

Kohta put a hand in the pocket of his jeans. "Something stupid" he murmured as he searched for something.

He smiled and it was chilling. He brought his hand out and in his grasp he held his knife. The same one he had took so long ago from the kitchens and held onto like a talisman since then.

Lucy took a step back and Kohta noticed. For a second a guilty look flashed across his face before the anger took over again.

"Is revenge a stupid thing Lucy?"

The horned girl watched her friend closely, "What are you going to do?" she asked carefully.

Kohta cocked his head and his smile returned. "Isn't it obvious? I'm going to find that bastard who killed my family... and I'm going to kill him. Slowly. If I can"

Lucy now knew her fears were completely justified. Seeing Kohtas almost ecstatic smile as he twirled his knife through his fingers. The burning hatred in his eyes. He'd just head straight into town and never come back until he found the murderer.

A dozen horrible things could happen to him alone in the town of Kamakura. But Lucy knew if he found his family's murderer he would throw himself without hesitation at the mans throat.

And then he would die.

"Don't be a fool Kohta. That man has already proven that he's a dangerous psycho. I mean if he wasn't scared to attack the police just to get at your dad, then he won't be afraid to gun down a single boy coming for him alone!"

Kohta looked up from his knife, his expression furious, "How'd you know about that! You spying on me now!?"

"Miko told me about it. But thats beside the point you can't-"

"Miko told you" Kohta interrupted with a sneer, "Well isn't that just tastic"

Lucy's red eyes narrowed angrily, "Would you stop being jealous and listen to me you moron! You can't go after this man. It's too dangerous!"

Kohta paced about like a captive beast. "I don't care if its dangerous. I have to do this Lucy" he hissed.

"You idiot! He'll kill you!"

Kohta screamed and slammed his knife into a tree trunk with a resounding 'thwack!'. "I DON'T CARE! HE KILLED MY FATHER! HE KILLED MY SISTER! I WANT HIM DEAD!"

His eyes were glacial as he turned his hate filled gaze on Lucy, "A real friend would help me. You're nothing but a pretender"

The horned girl felt her throat tighten with pain as the words she had prayed to never hear where uttered by Kohta. The malice of his words, the disgust in his eyes. All her life she had received nothing but that from everyone and she had lived with it.

But now it was different. A soul she truly cared for was treating her the same way and now the knife inside was being twisted and plunged deep into her heart.

The next moment happened in a burst of expression. Lucy felt a choked sob force its way from her tightened throat. Her eyes welled with tears and in a rush of movement she raced over to Kohta. Screamed, "YOU JERK!". And slapped him 'HARD' across the cheek.

Kohta face snapped to one side. His eyes were wide with shock as his right cheek began to redden. Lucy herself was shaking and almost hyperventilating with her hand still raised, as motionless as Kohta.

"I-I... Kohta I didn't..."

Lucy's babbling died off and she fell into silence staring at Kohtas still frame.

"I'm leaving now"

The boy turned and the red imprint of Lucy's hand was bright against his paling skin. He stared down at her and this time there was nothing. No hate, no anger, no disgust, just blank indifference.

"Goodbye Lucy" Kohta said. And with a hard yank he freed his knife. Stowed it away in his jeans pocket. And stalked off into the forest.

Lucy watched him go for a few moments. He made six feet until her brain finally stopped stalling and kicked her legs into overdrive.

"KOHTA STOP!" she screamed as she grabbed his arm and yanked him back. The boy was twisted round and Lucy caught a dizzying image of his lips bared in a snarl before he lashed out and backhanded her across her jaw.

Pain so great she almost blacked out overwhelmed her. Her vision spun and she was dimly aware of hitting the ground in a jumble of knees and hands. She lay half crouched trying to get back to her senses when two dirty white trainers stepped into her spinning view.

She looked up into the face of her friend. The young adolescent looked shocked by what he had done and as she watched his mask cracked and remorse showed.

But by then Lucy had tasted the copper tang of blood in her mouth and all thoughts of sorrow, forgiveness or sympathy faded in an instant.

'Kill him'

Lucy bared her bloodied teeth in a grimace of hate. How 'dare' he strike her!

'Kill him for his foolishness'

Lucy rose to her feet with fluid grace. Her chin was lowered to her breast and the young girl glared daggers at Kohta. The boy took a step back at the pure hatred in his friends demonic eyes. Had he pushed her too far?

With slow elegance Lucy stretched out an arm, her hand hanging limp as she pointed pointed towards Kohta. Her blood pounded through her veins and her vision was a red haze of hate and anger.

She didn't understand why but in this instance she stopped seeing Kohtas dismayed face and instead saw Tomoo, the matron, Mr Kimuchii. All the faces, sneers and disgusted looks of everyone who had hurt her were all pasted onto Kohtas body and the girl just wanted to shut them all up.

She wanted to stop the pain once and for all!

'Then kill him. Kill this one who dared claim to be your friend. Him first then the others'

Kohta felt his skin break out in an icy sweat. He was suddenly gripped in an all consuming terror. Like a mouse trapped before a serpent he was unable to move and the apology that he wanted to say was impossible to utter.

Lucy raised her hand palm out towards Kohta. She could feel her body tighten like a spring and she knew that something spectacular was about to happen. Something that had been buried inside her for years was about to emerge.

'Kill him'

"Kohta! What are you doing out here! Lucy! Stop doing that stupid pointing, its rude, and tell me why you've dragged this boy out here?"

Both youngsters gasped. Lucy blinked and in another instant the rage faded, the anger vanished. Instead of Tomoos sneering face she saw the petrified expression of her friend Kohta. He was staring at her with such confusion and fear that Lucy felt sick. Why had she seen Kohta as the focus of all her anger? What had just happened?

Seeing Lucy's confusion Kohtas fear faded and he eyed her suspiciously. "Lucy what just happened?" he asked carefully.

"I-I... don't know" Lucy lowered her arm and stared at her hands with uncertainty.

Lucy winced as a heavy hand took her shoulder and the matron glared down at her, "I don't like being ignored young lady" she spat angrily. Lucy stared up at her silently so the woman scowled and tightened her hold.

"Hey! Leave her alone!" Kohta shouted on seeing his friend wince. "Why are you both out here? Children are 'not' allowed out this far past the grounds without supervision" the woman questioned ignoring Kohtas words.

"He found out the truth"

The matron looked down at Lucy. The girls chilly smile unnerved her slightly, "What truth?"

Lucy merely sniggered and Kohta stepped forward glaring furiously at the matron, "I found out what you've been hiding from me. That my family's killers is here. Here in Kamakura"

"Why didn't you tell me, Kohtas words were just a hiss of escaping breath, didn't I have the right to know that scumbag was here so close to me?"

The matron gingerly let go of Lucy, (the girl helping by shrugging her off with a glare) and gave Kohta an attempt at a look of sympathy, "Now Kohta I know you're scared but we felt it was best not to tell you about the fugitive. After all it's only rumored hes here. There's no proof of it so far"

Her tone was wheedling, "I know its frightening but believe me there's nothing to be scared of Kohta"

Kohtas shoulders shook with mirth, "You think I'm scared of all this?"

He threw his head back and laughed, Lucy and the matron watching in amazement. When Kohtas laughter subsiding he gave them a grin, "I'm not scared. I'm actually happy"

Suddenly his knife was in his hand and the matron took a step back. Lucy just tilted her head, curiously staring at this new side of Kohta.

"Now I know he's here it means I can hunt him down and rip his filthy heart from his stinking chest"

He bowed to the two of them, "Thank you ladies for your assistance but now I take my leave" and with a parting look at Lucy he turned on his heel and began to stride away knife clenched in his fist.

Lucy felt her heart pound painfully. As angry as she was with Kohta for hitting her she still remembered her previous fears. Unbiddion the image of a dead and bloody Kohta filled her mind and a laughing man holding a gun standing over him. Kohta wouldn't have a chance! He was walking to his death!

"Wait" Lucy struggled to say but it only came out as a whisper.

"WAIT ONE MOMENT BOY!"

Kohta stopped at the matrons shout though he didn't turn round, "There is another option Kohta" the matron said.

The boy turned. His eyes wary but curious. "What?"

The matron motioned back towards the school, "Come with me to my office. We can call the officer in charge... what was his name..."

The matron floundered for a moment, "Mr Takashii" Kohta offered into the silence.

"Thats the man. We can call him and find out for sure whats going on. I'm sure by now he has some news for you"

Kohta hesitated. He dimly recalled the man, an older guy, forties perhaps? The man had been one of those kindly older detectives who had tried to comfort him. Though he had been in shock the whole time the man hadn't left him alone for great periods and though Kohta never responded Mr Takashii had patiently explained what was going to happen to him.

He remembered when the detective had asked him if he had any next of kin they could contact. All Kohta could think of was 'Yuka' the cousin he had played with as a child but hadn't seen for years. With all the moving around his father had been doing these last few years he and Kanae hadn't seen many family members.

Still it was the best he could come up with. "My cousin Yuka... I have a cousin called Yuka..." It wasn't much to go on and the detective had looked sincerely sorry when he had spoken to him the following day and found nothing. Yuka and his aunt, (he couldn't for the life of him remember her name) had vanished from the ancient address Kohta remembered and for the moment couldn't be tracked down.

"I'm sending you to a small orphanage in the seaside town Kamakura. You ever been there son?"

Shake.

"Well its a nice little place. And more importantly its safe. You have my word that you wont be found by anyone who may want to hurt you."

Silence.

"You'll stay there until we catch the man and then I'll come collect you for the trial. Until then you'll be provided food and lodging and the caretakers there will look after you... is that ok Kohta?"

...nod.

"Son... I can't imagine how bad you must feel... but I promise we'll do everything in our power to find the killers. Until then hang on kid and don't do anything reckless. Your father and sister won't be pleased to see you so early in your life"

Hesitation. Kohtas shoulders shudder and when he looks up tears stream from his eyes.

"They won't be happy to see me? Heh. Well. Now I can't ever ask them can I?"

Mr Takashii was silent for a moment, "No... I guess you can't" he said pityingly.

"But you have to live on Kohta. And thats gonna be the hardest thing to do"

"Kohta? You ok?"

The blue eyed boy snapped out of his past with a shake and met Lucy's worried gaze. He looked away uncomfortably. "I'm fine" he muttered, missing Lucy's hurt expression.

"Lets go then 'matron', Kohta said with scorn, now that you've mentioned it I do want some answers from that detective now"

Kohta walked ahead straight past the matron. He didn't acknowledge Lucy's presence and this hurt the girl even more. Guilt for what she thought and did earlier, and anger for him striking her, warred inside her. But for now the hurt was greater and she stayed rooted to the spot.

"Get back to your classes girl" The matron gave Lucy a stern look, "I'll speak to you later" she said and hurried after Kohta.

"Whatever" Lucy muttered. She watched them go and only when they were out of sight did she turn, hold herself still for a moment, then fall to her knees and start to cry.

"Oh Kohta..."

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

A pair of malicious brown eyes watched with glee as Lucy cried. A grin split across his young face revealing a flash of teeth as he enjoyed her tears. God it was beautiful.

Tomoo leaned against his tree, alone for once, and considered what had just happened. From this distance he hadn't heard what the freaks had been arguing about. And he didn't much care. All that mattered was when Kohta had slapped the horned bitch and he had felt a surge of pleasure at seeing her bleed.

He laughed quietly. It was just so sweet. Kohta was someone freak had considered her friend. Maybe even more, disgusting as it sounded. And now that new hope in her life had turned on her just like everything else.

'I knew you'd snap sooner or later Kohta mate. True men like us, the ones who aren't afraid to show our strength, would want to dominate the pathetic mutant. It just took you longer then me'

Tomoo had always recognized a fellow killer in Kohta. Though their reasons and personality's were split different ways. Kohta would hurt someone to 'protect' or some such crap.

He was in it just for the fun.

And now, Tomoos grin widened, that little bitch who had pissed him off so many times was ripe for the plunder. With her friend forsaking her she was completely defenseless against him.

A major part of him wanted to sneak over there and start the party early. Mock her about how she had lost another person who mattered to her. All because of her freakiness.

But it could wait. Hard as it was to contain. Like a bomb waiting to blow in his chest. Tomoo would hold back from striking too early.

He could hurt Lucy now. He could scar her deeply. But he didn't want that.

He wanted to tear away everything she loved and cared for. He wanted everyone she thought liked her turn their backs on her or be destroyed.

One friend had been driven off, 'and I didn't even have to do it myself' Tomoo thought blissfully. And the dark souled boy had the perfect plan to take away the other two Lucy cared about about.

"Enjoy what little shred of happiness you can still find now Lucy, Tomoo whispered to the distant figure, by the end of the day... I'll completely destroy you"

With a final quiet snigger the boy pushed himself off the tree and, whistling merrily, strode off back to the home and to get his plans rolling.

END OF PART 1.

On the next volume of Elfin Lied: Bonded together so fast and tight, now torn apart just as quickly the little girl cries for a friendship now wounded while a young man suffers in guilt for his crime. A betrayal is set to tear apart what little happiness has been found as the boy with evil in his heart sets his plan in motion.

And hidden in the dark, a killer watches all...

Annnnn thats a wrap! For now at least. I've got another twenty to thirty pages still left but its getting so big that I've had to split it up.

To everyone who read this thank you very much :) I'll try and get the other half done soon and I really would appreciate any feedback. I'm still trying to get to grips with this story and advice or personal ideas are welcome.

Until next time, bye bye!