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6.16.2005
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Shard 7
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Author's Note: I think it's official that putting out a Shard a week, but by Friday, is going to be the schedule for me. I've been pretty consistent with it for 3 weeks now, so I think it's safe to say that I can do it. I could probably put out two a week if I was not taking care of other tasks that involve a similar amount of thought and creativity, but I do not think that will change anytime soon. If it does, you'll find out. For those who read, I hope this is a reasonable pace and can hold your attention for each week. Thanks for your patience and interest in this very complex story that I am doing my best to present to you. This is my first time writing a continuous story, as well as being on a dedicated schedule after all. For those of you who read my main blog, remember when I said "Shard 7 is going to be short"? Well...it's not. Don't know if that's a good or bad thing. I went deeper than I thought I would. Here's Shard 7. Hope you enjoy. The sun had set a substantial amount, telling the time of around 6pm. The foliage were beginning to show signs of the more temperate seasons day by day, and kept their branches high to the sky, absorbing as much warmth and life energy of the sun as they could before a temporary sleep would enrapture them once more. Unknown to any passerbys on the ground, the armoured-clad female continued on her aerial route towards the hospital. Rena laid still all this time, falling in and out of consciousness. She had pushed with her limited strength to speak to Reika, but only softened squeaks were released from her mouth before she fell asleep again in her savior's arms. Though a myriad of events had taken place since the soothing voice tucked away in Reika's hardened heart convinced her to put aside her apathetic ways in order to save Rena, her jumbled thoughts of frustration and anxiety conflicted with her emotions of distress and undeniable confusion that lulled her into a daydream-like state. I don't have a clue how or why I am even doing all of this. "Rei...ka?" Whatever...I don't care. Doesn't matter. Almost to the hospital. "Reika...?" Good thing that "Saber of Trust" idiot didn't recognize me. "Reika...!" In mid-jump, Reika finally heard the less-than-audible and more demanding call of her name from Rena, and nearly lost her balance upon landing on the edge of a conveinence store roof about a block away from the hospital. "Wah!" Reika cried, as she staggered forward off the ledge and onto the flatter surface. Her hair fell in front of her eyes as she turned her nervous gaze of annoyance towards Rena. "You chose a horrible time to come to, you know that," Reika said flatly. Though she narrowed her eyes at the weakened girl, Rena gazed up through thin, oval lenses and flashed Reika a lighthearted smile. Unable to defend against the unexpected response posed by Rena, she blushed a bit in surprise. "Sorry...for making you blush." Rena giggled, as Reika shifted her eyes away from her while she regained her stark composure. "Che...don't apologize for something you didn't cause, idiot!" "So Reika-chan made herself blush?" "D-Don't call me Reika-chan! I haven't forgotten about earlier. I'm still pissed about that. Now apologize for almost killing us just now!" * ~~~~~~~~~~ * "WILL YOU STOP CALLING ME LIKE THAT ALREADY?! I've had just about enough of you calling me and relying on me like I'm your best friend or something! Stop acting like you know me because it's not just sickening, but it's annoying as heck! You don't know anything about me, because if you did, you would get a clue and just leave me alone! So back off!" * ~~~~~~~~~~ * Rena lowered her eyes, remembering the mistake she made. Her voice dimmed down to a more solemn tone. Her left hand grabbed hold of her Amethyst Jewel and held it close to her chest. "With you as you are, we will not die..." "Again with the 'we won't die' nonsense. Don't say that so casually." "We are alive though, are we not?" "Yeah. And I assure you that you will be explaining why the heck I am like "this" before this day is over. Right now though, you need to be treated. However...I refuse to carry you in there looking like an otaku* cosplayer**." "Yes, I think I remember what you have to do to dispel the power. You "think" you know?! You knew how to put it on me! You'd better know how to take it off! Are there any enclosed areas around?" Reika motioned with her head to the alley located beside the store. "Over there." "Please take us there...uhhhnnn..." "Rena...!" With all of her weight, she pressed her hand against Reika's armored chest for support, as she felt a wave of fatigue fall upon her body. "I am fine...Let's just hurry and get this armor off of you." Reika nodded in agreement, though Rena was fighting to keep what little strength had returned to her over time. Her sullen complexion and desperate need for rest could not be concealed from Reika's watch just by her confident words. Reika leaned off the edge of the building, judging the approximate distance of the fall between her and the concrete below. She bent her knees, readying herself to jump, tightened her grip on Rena's light frame as Rena wrapped her arms around her neck, then pushed off her right leg. The mysterious energy that constantly flowed through her entire body was redirected to her toned legs at the second before impact. The energy only allowed for Reika to take the shock through her legs, while her graceful landing was of her own ability. "You seem to be a natural at this, Reika." "I just do what I have to. Now tell me how to get this weird armor off. It's making me feel and think in ways that I'd rather not." "Before I tell you, you should put me down first." Reika delievered somewhat of a distasteful expression in Rena's direction that left an uncomfortable pang in the confused female's heart; she was clueless as to why a fearful look like that would be directed to her. "I'd love to, but your arms are still around my neck. You think I enjoy carrying around some girl I barely know in my arms like she's some princess?" Rena let out a gasp of what appeared to be from embarassment, as her purple gaze fell off to the ground in deep thought. Reika turned up her lip in annoyance, waiting for the silent girl to release her, but at that moment, Rena's hold around her neck tightened, making Reika gag in shock. "No, but I like it!" Rena exclaimed in a jovial tone. She giggled while Reika groaned and staggered around clumsily in discomfort. "Ack! Are you crazy or something?! Let me go, you psycho!" "My heeerooo!" she sang. "Let go already! Ugh!***" "I'm your friend, Reika. Ask nicely!" Reika stopped moving randomly, bent over closer to the ground, then relinquished her grasp from the crux of Rena's knee and against Rena's back, dropping on her bottom. "Not. A. Chance." Rena raised her head up at Reika with a saddened pout of defeat on her face. Reika smirked in satisfaction, devoid of any sympathy. "I'm already injured you know!" "Yeah, but from the looks of that face, I didn't make another one; your butt absorbed the impact well." Rena blushed heavily, and fumbled for the words to retaliate with, putting on a facade of anger. "W-what did you sa-a--" As quickly as her face had changed before, her entire countenance became a doormat of intense fear as she was no longer paying attention to Reika, but rather the shadows that had materialized behind her. "Eh? What's with the sudden change...HM!" Reika swung her body around, sweeping her ebony strands against her face. Her eyes caught the tall shadows of three men dressed in casual clothing staring at them at the alleyway entrance. The setting sun excentuated Reika's apprehensive, crimson stare, of which could distinguish specific features - one wearing a brown leather jacket, another with sunglasses in the center, and the last with a horrible haircut. The men had a full view of the two conspicuous girls once they shuffled a few steps forward. The one wearing the sunglasses spoke up first. "Hey look guys! It's a sexy senshi^ cosplayer and a busty, petrified schoolgirl." "Definitely something you don't see everyday. Aren't we so lucky?" the one with the haircut chimed in. Yeah. Something like that haircut. Reika thought. "You two lost or somethin'? So are we. Maybe we can give each other a hand," the jacket-wearing punk mused, while making suggestive hand motions. Sick. Reika cringed back slightly and glanced down to Rena, who was now clinging to her knees with a slight twitch in her body, and paler than she was prior to seeing the three guys who reeked of malicious intent. "Hey cosplayer-chick," the bad-hair punk started. "What happened to your friend?" As he said this, he moved in closer towards Reika. Not taking any chances on any surprise attacks, she took her stance without hesitatation. "Don't take another step, if you value your manhood!" Reika's sharp-edged tone made him take a step back from Reika's desperate, burning glare. "Whoa!" the jacketed male exclaimed. "That cosplayer-chick is really into her role, eh?" With this armor on...these guys should be nothing...but Rena..." The one with sunglasses took a step forward, sneering at Reika, though she was taller than him and the other two guys as well. "Heh. You must joking if you think your costume act is going to scare me." "I think it's kinda kinky. She's even wearing special contacts. Heheh. Come on cutie. You can be rough with me." A loud gasp from behind caught the attention of everyone. Rena's ghostly state had progressed; she sat still, staring blankly ahead, whispering in a disturbing tone to herself, as if viewing a sight that only her eyes could behold. "H-Help...me...Stay away...Help...help..." Rena...! Reika's ferocious glare and gritted teeth turned back to the three men, as if the threat of death would become reality with one look into her eyes. If you had stopped playing around in your condition, we wouldn't be in another fronte precipitium a tergo lupi^^. The three men returned their attention back to the threatening face of Reika, nodded to each other, and began to close in on them. Reika leaned back in an offensive stance, keeping Rena at a small distance behind her. I haven't had to deal with situations like this in forever...but I was always fighting for myself... "Help...me..." "Oh, we'll help you, all right. Heheh...heh...heh" "And here I thought all guys valued their manhood...You guys really chose the WRONG girl to screw around with!" I don't understand...Rena...but these guys are going to be the ones crying for help when this is over, not you. "Master, a full check of the student body has been completed. There were no casualties in your experiment, as you had planned." "Lovely. And as for the results?" "Yes. The results of your "test subject" have been digitized and compiled." "Very good, Helene. Show me." "Yes, Master." In what resembled a spacious, well-kept office enshrouded in the converging darkness, lit only by dim skylights and the evanescent sunlight leaking through the shut blinds on both sides of the room, a wide-screen monitor slid down from the ceiling before the two human-shaped silhouettes in the room: one with the masculine features of a late teen, who had twisted his tall, leather seat around behind a lengthy, wood-carved desk to face towards the descending plasma monitor; the other, standing at his side, having the lovely contours of an hourglass and lengthy strands of perfectly brushed hair, falling over her shoulders and down past her waistline. The screen flickered on and began to replay all that had been perceived from the point of view of the serpent demon, including the mystical convergence brought about by Reika and Rena's encounter. "So...there is a threat against my mission, as was predicted by those Ancients of the past. And right when I believed that all possible hinderances had been destroyed or simply lacking in the necessities to revive the power. How ironic that these females are enrolled in this very school as well. Ironic, yet conveinent." "Helene." "Yes, Master." "Have the Twin Cross continue monitoring their activity as usual. I am sure someone in the group already knows who the other girl is. We must first find out the source of that female's power and if she is indeed any real threat to my plans." "As you wish, Master. Might I inquire of something?" "You may." "Should reconstruction plans be made as well? Hiring the necessary workers should have the damages paid for and completed within this week." "Make the necessary arrangements." "As you wish, Master." "And Helene?" "Yes, Master?" "Ensure that the memories of bystanders and law officials who witnessed this event are erased by the end of the night. You should be aware of who would be excluded in that equation. "Yes. As you wish, Master." As Helene bowed and departed from his office, the screen projected the final moments of the serpent's life before Reika severed its head. The transmission ended abruptly afterward, plunging the room again into a pseudo-darkness. The tall leather chair spun around and the young male rested his chin on his hands, with his elbows propped up against his polished desk. A soft sigh was expelled from his lips as his eyes closed, embracing his man-made emptiness. Even after all you have endured...you still seem to find your strength from somewhere... ... "...Reika." ____________________ Notations * Otaku = a person who is a fanatic over something or someone ** Cosplay(er) = Originated in Japan as a form of "dress up" in order to escape one's self, to have fun, or to show one's appreciation for a unique style. They are not limited to those reasons, but are the most common; can dress as one's favorite anime/video game character, Visual Kei singer, etc. and then taking on their personality, though that is not required to be considered "cosplay" *** Reika knows she could use her power to pry her off, but because of how her entire body reacts to the energy leaking from her heart - her deep-seated desires and emotions - she does not want to harm Rena. ^ Senshi = a Japanese term for "warrior/soldier" ^^ fronte precipitium a tergo lupi = between a rock and a hard place + © Alexiel Newtype :: @ 6/16/2005 11:50:00 PM +
6.09.2005
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Shard 6
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Author's Note: Thanks very much to Beat for helping me proofread this and get my ideas straight in my mind. I had confused myself, as I had changed one detail in Shard 5 at the last minute, but didn't remember that I did that. Other than that, here's the next one. ^^ Now imbued with a shocking power that seemed to be residing and resonating from her heart, Reika stood firm and ready, while somewhat anxious to battle against the massive serpent which appeared to be awaiting its prey's next move. Reika's relaxed, crimson stare into the slitted eyes of the threat before her felt natural; her past fears of a few moments ago were dispelled, yet the sudden luscious kiss of Rena remained fresh in her mind and upon her lips. What happened to me? My left arm isn't hurt anymore. And am I wearing pink and white armor?! Reika shook herself awake from her internal questioning and realized Rena was beginning to weigh down heavily on her left arm. Rena's eyes were shut behind her off-balance lenses and her lips parted, as if appearing to be in a sleepened state. Reika kept her eyes on the serpent looming over them, but tried to stir Rena from her supposed rest. "Rena. Rena," she called to her in a quiet voice from the side of her mouth. "This is no time to be sleeping." Rena's dead weight made it very clear that she had fainted from bloodloss. Also, Rena's desperate gasps for air was far from a positive sign. Reika's overconfidence quickly became worry, then reverted to an untapped anger. Reika lowered her eyes from the serpent, then without another second of uncertainty, turned to walk a few steps to take Rena away from the battleground. Immediately, the serpent's head rose in preparation for an attack, but was brought into submission the moment Reika's countenance of burning hatred shifted in its direction; a glare that pierced a hole of fear into the demon's soul that dared it to attempt a cowardice move like that once more. "Heh. Are you jealous that you aren't the center of my attention for a moment's time? Be patient...I am far from done with you." Reika carried the unconscious female a bit more of a safe distance away and carefully propped her body upright against a wall. Rena's face had become slightly pale, but her serene countenance had not changed. The short masamune in Reika's gauntleted right hand was held loosely, as she scanned over Rena's slim figure. Noticing the awkward placing of Rena's glasses, she leaned over her and straightened them upon her nose. Annoyance and apathy was reflected in her eyes, yet a desire to protect Rena began to discreetly smooth out a small area of Reika's hardened heart. "You said that we won't die. I don't plan on dying today...so, you had better not die either before you tell me what you did to me." She purposely took time to walk back to where the serpent-like demon awaited. Though the brash female was aware of the evidence of the unnatural power she now wielded, she clung to every possible reason that would keep her alive; namely, her belief in herself and the sharpened blade equipped with her. The serpent emitted an intimidating hissing sound, as Reika barred her grit teeth up at the demon; the excitement and nervousness swirling in her chest increased her heartrate, and compelled her to psych herself up. "You know, it would be great if you just disappeared on your own..." The serpent arched its muscular neck and lunged forward at Reika. "...but I guess it can't be helped. I'll have to give you a reason to disappear myself!" With bent knees and a readied blade that glistened in ancipation, she retaliated with a graceful leap, putting all of her trust in her blade, and the faint intention to protect Rena and, most surely, herself. Kaoru had made his way around the rubble and appeared behind the serpent. He had not taken his eyes off the demon since he first laid eyes on it. His fists had been clenched until the bloodflow had been cut off; his fustration and concern of Rena's safety plagued his heart and mind with relentless fury. What is this thing?! And where did it come from? More importantly, did Rena make it out in time? Agh! I hate not knowing what is going on! Upon retracting his emerald eyes away from the serpent, he caught a glimpse of a black haired girl with a crystal around her neck, rested against a wall. His discouraged demeanor became livelier when he had jogged close enough to confirm the girl to be Rena by the blue highlights in her hair. Hyori-san! Thank goodness! But...is she... "HAAAA!" Kaoru could only get halfway around the serpent before being startled by the battle cry of a female coming from above. As if he perceived everything happening in slow-motion, his eyes caught the pinkish-white form of a black-haired girl piercing the underside of the serpent's neck with the full force of the entire blade, then continuing through its skin until the bloodsoaked blade exited out the other end. The disjointed head let out a bloodcurdling scream, then plummeted to the ground. Reika was still flying in the air when she found her footing on the rough skin of the nerveless body. She ran down the winding path of its back, frontflipped into the air, and landed in a kneeling form, as the rest of the serpent's body collapsed among the dust and concrete, mingled with its own spurting blood. Reika smirked to herself and cleansed her masamune of blood with one full swipe to the air. She unknowingly had her back towards the awestruck Kaoru, who had witnessed everything while standing at a distance of the black-haired warrior that appeared to to be staring down at her killing. "Well, that's taken care of...huh?" The spilled blood of the demon serpent seemed to come alive around its severed head and body. The thickened liquid swam up its head and body, encasing it in a maroon coating. "Oh great...! Now what?" Reika scoffed. "The manner of this...is almost demonic-like..." Kaoru spoke in an uneasy tone. Reika took a defensive stance, though all she and Kaoru were entitled to do was watch the entire body of the massive serpent slowly pass through the ground and vanish without a trace. Even the blood that had splattered every which way upon her armor, skirt, and legs was gone. Reika still had not taken notice of Kaoru, primarily due to her thoughts being set on Rena's health, for reasons she did not care bother herself with at the moment. "Hm. Guess you can disappear on your own after all. Now, for Rena." Kaoru had been unable to hear Reika's voice through the entire ordeal; he had decided keep his distance from the unknown girl and determine whether she was an enemy or not. Though this had not been made certain, seeing her heading towards Rena set him off. His apprehensive state could not hold him back from finally revealing his presence and taking action with prepped fists. "H-Hey you!" Kaoru yelled half-heartedly. Reika instantly recognized the boy's voice and stopped for a moment. A foreboding shadow came over her eyes as she somewhat bowed her head. Taking that as a sign leaning in his favor, he stepped up the confident edge in his tone, and took a few steps forward. "What do you think you're going to do to Rena?" Whomever said "there is no such thing as a stupid question," was lying. Even if I were going to hurt her, I wouldn't come out and say it. "Hey! I asked you a question!" Reika was close enough to see that Rena's blood had clotted at her forehead and leg, but appeared even more lethargic than before. I don't have time for this. Rena needs help now, and not from him. Just as Kaoru opened his mouth for another threatening remark, Reika sprinted faster than she ever had before towards Rena and took her up in her arms. As she was running, her masamune had shimmered away without her noticing. Kaoru ran after her, but the gap between them could not be closed. "STOP! LET HER GO!" Reika lept up to the roof of the wall Rena was laid against and stared down at Kaoru without a shred of pity in her crimson eyes. You already hate me. Who cares if you hate me more. This was my choice, and is my decision. She turned away from the edge of the roof and took to the nearby rooftops in the direction of the hospital. Kaoru reluctantly accepted the truth of his fruitless efforts, and quit his pursuit when Reika had taken to the roof. He could only stand there in the midst of the setting sunlight upon the school campus, tuning out the distant drone of sirens that he knew were heading towards him. He now understood, more than any other point in his life, how weak and powerless he really was. Though his heart had found peace and justice in the beliefs taught at Keisan Kame, a sealed vial, filled with a cruel ambition, that sat in an unkept corner had developed a crack, along with the fresh crack in the wall engraved by his fist. "The first time I want to protect someone...I couldn't do anything! Rena Hyori...I said I would protect you from this day forward. I swear...on everything within me, I will find that girl who took you from me...and make sure she never takes me lightly again..." + © Alexiel Newtype :: @ 6/09/2005 11:42:00 PM +
6.04.2005
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Shard 5
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Author's Note: Alot of you really wanted to kill me for the cliffhanger in Shard 4 (lol), but I hope this shard clears up why I did that. This shard will also probably set the standard for whether you continue reading this or not. So, I hope you find Shard 5 fulfilling and worthwhile! ^^; Yasuna Reinhardt was left stunned at the affectionate motions of Kaoru Nasuragame. Seeing him approach a girl without an ulterior motive in mind, which she would have known about in advance, was almost like a dream; a dream that she was anxious to awake from as soon as possible. A few minutes had already passed since most of the student body had been entertained by Reika's enraged retort and Kaoru's declaration of devotion to the saddened Rena. However, Kaoru had not left Rena's side since then, and Yasuna's hazel eyes refused to shift away from their direction, for fear that she may miss a moment of importance that could create a boundary between her and Kaoru. Why is Nasuragame-sama so interested in that weak, over-sized bimbo? I am supposed to be the only one which a chance to make him mine! She has no right to be anywhere near him... Kaoru was well aware of the eyes that were stalking him, yet paid little mind to Yasuna, as per usual, when he was dealing with business matters. Rena shut her locker and rested her palm upon the frigid steel, with distraught purple eyes melded with apathy, simply staring at the numbers etched on a thin, bronze plate that represented her existence at Keisan Kame. Her lips, dry from sobbing, rested atop one another as if awaiting the moisture of her tongue to slip through the tight space between them. "Hyori-san?" I made Reika furious... "It seems you have gathered all of your books." ...I have to apologize to her right away... "I would be honored to walk you home on your first day of attendance." ...I really do not want to...but I must discover the truth... Now is my chance! Yasuna seized the open opportunity of the diverted attention between them and haughtily stepped in, hoping her familiar presence would bring Kaoru's attention back to her. With a confident air about her and her English accent adding a beautiful, yet undeniably conniving edge to her Japanese speech, she moved in close to Kaoru. "It seems like Hyori-san wants to be alone right now, Nasuragame-sama. Why don't we head to the office and -" "My business here is more important than whatever you may have in mind. Gather your books and go home." "But Nasuragame-sama...!" "Go!" Yasuna immediately submitted to his command and stepped down from her pedestal. Lowering her defiant gaze to the oak floor beneath her feet, she leaned forward with a solemn bow, though her countenance of rage did not reciprocate the same message. "Yes. I understand." The sixteen year old leader of Spirit of Hand retracted her presence away from Rena and Kaoru, twisting her head the opposite way for the first time, making her way to her locker at a slow rhythmic pace. Kaoru exhaled a long breath, and then brought his full attention to where Rena was once standing. "So, Hyori-sa- Eh?!" Rena was already halfway down the hall, carrying her books against her chest, along with some of her draping bluish-black hair, wearing a soft smile that could easily be mistaken for a frown. "Hyori-san! Please wait! I still need to get my books!" Darn it. She isn't stopping. Maybe I can retrieve my books and still catch up to walk her the rest of the way. Kaoru nearly lost his balance on the newly polished oak floor while running in the direction Yasuna had departed to. He made a tight, squeaky turn around the corner and skid to a stop upon spotting Yasuna sitting on the floor with her face in her lap and her arms wrapped around her knees. She lifted her eyes, glaring at him through her round lenses with such frustration that caused his blood to run cold. Before either of them could reprimand the other, the entire building began vibrating, and then became more and more distinct until a ferocious explosion resounded from around the corner Kaoru had just come from. Both Yasuna and Kaoru quickly scrambled to see what had happened, and found themselves speechless at the sight before them. About half the wall at the end of the hallway had been destroyed. Some students who had lingered in the halls, or just to see what would become of Kaoru and Rena, sped past them; frantically screaming to escape the crumbling concrete and cloud of dust out through the nearby side exit. Kaoru reached out to the last incoming male student, tightly clenching his arm before he could pass him, and reversed his forward momentum to slam him into the nearest locker. Kaoru's piercing eyes demanded an explanation from the ghostly pale boy. "You! What happened?!" "It...just...just..." "TELL ME NOW!" "T-There was a rumbling under the floor and then...everything just started collapsing." "Did you see a bluish-black-haired girl leave the building?" "I-I don't know!" "Nasuragame-sama. Terrorizing him more is not helping at all. Let him go already." Kaoru released him and the boy resumed his escape out the door. Kaoru's heart pounded with anxiety, as a vision of Rena's crying face materialized into his mind. His decision had been made certain. "Yasuna. I'm going." "What did you say," Yasuna gasped. "Don't tell me that you are going to further disregard the code of the Twin Cross by trying to save an associate of that rebel!" Another thunderous smash came from outside the building, sending the foundation they stood on, once again, into convulsions. Kaoru glanced at Yasuna with a smirk, then looked back towards the path of destruction made up of plaster, dented lockers, and dust that littered the hall. "Sorry, but I will do whatever I need to do, if it is for the sake of Rena Hyori. This has nothing to do with me being the leader of Saber of Trust." "Nasuraga-...Nasuragame-sama! ...You are a fool...Kaoru..." Kaoru grinned to himself as his legs had already carried him to the nearest opening leading outside. Yasuna's cry could no longer reach him, as his search for any sign of Rena among the rubble ceased when his widened eyes spotted the source of the chaos a few yards away. "N-No way...!" Reika reached the clearing that led to the back entrance of the school building, but arrived directly at the side of the immense demon that resembled a snake in physical attributes. Though she had no inclination of what manner of being was before her, her next action was already decided. She swiftly scanned the area for Rena, while jogging at a distance towards the snake that seemed to have become somewhat calm. Wow...that thing really did some damage...Eh? Is that...? Reika's scrutinous eyes had found Rena lying still on her side on the ground in front of the back entrance, bleeding from her head and leg. Hoping to not give her presence away to the threat too early, she broke into a full sprint towards Rena. However, though she was most of the way there, the murmuring vibrations of her rapid footsteps have caught the attention of the mammoth demon. Its head swooped downward towards Reika - only allowing her to rely on her speed and timing of the oncoming shadow - and at the last moment, dived forward, just barely out of range of certain death. Unable to catch herself properly, she tumbled around on the concrete, landing next to Rena, who was slowly regaining consciousness. "Uhn...R-Reika...?" "Yeah...It's me." "What happened...? Ow...! My head..." Reika's bleeding left arm hung limp at her side, as her eyes followed the neck of the snake rising up from the gravel. "Rena...can you stand?" she inquired flatly, though a hint of worry was faintly apparent in her tone. "I can't move my right leg." "Well then, move the left one!" Reika forced her right arm underneath Rena's body, propping her up a bit before scooping Rena's bloody body in her arms. The same worry in her tone began to creep into her heart, as the snake had clearly made the two girls its target. Rena, now fully conscious, but weakening fast from blood loss, gazed up at the demon snake and clung to her amethyst for support. Reika had no options to consider left; she did not expect a scenario such as this to occur. Great. She is somewhat alright, but now what? There is no way I can run like this. "We won't die...Reika..." "What?! How in the world can you say tha-mm?!" Rena's arm had stealthily wrapped around Reika's neck, pulling her into a sudden kiss of which she could not escape from. Though Reika could only put up a minor struggle, Rena increased the pressure upon Reika's lips, shutting her eyes to block out the shadow that was about to overtake them. Please...let her be the one I am searching for...or we really will die... Rena's amethyst crystal initiated a purplish-pink glow that burned hot in her hand. That glow expanded into a vibrant light that rapidly enveloped Reika's entire body in a shell, as the snake's head collided with the blinding light. The shell exploded without warning, releasing a powerful wave of energy, knocking the demon backward. The demon expelled a groan of discomfort, being nearly blinded by the fluorescent pinkish light shining through the dust whipping about it. As the dust began to dissipate, the appearance and resolve that Reika once had was now drastically altered - her school uniform, now shimmering pink and white battle armor; sky blue eyes once filled with uncertainty became a fiery crimson, renewed with overwhelming self-assurance; red hair, now a beautiful jet black, catching the gentle wind around her body. With Rena being held with ease with Reika's injured left arm and a short masamune gripped roughly by her gauntleted right hand, the lacking need for further doubt in the hearts of Reika and Rena appeared to be quite apparent, regardless of the imminent confrontation. Reika Masane...my Amethyst Jewel was not mistaken after all... + © Alexiel Newtype :: @ 6/04/2005 03:31:00 AM +
6.02.2005
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Shard 4
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Author's Note: Man, it really has been a while since I wrote anything in this blog for this story I thought up. I really do feel guilty for putting this on such a long hiatus. I always feel like my characters are angry at me for bringing them to life, then putting them asleep again. It is never easy to pick up a story after so long, especially since I have not touched this story or its characters in almost 7 months. However, I managed to, thanks to the encouragement of a special friend of mine, "Aidio-chan". If it weren't for her giving me such reassuring words, then I probably would not have tried to write this tonight. All I really need is sincere support from someone who cares about my characters even just a little, and she is the only one who has stuck on me about continuing this story. So..thank you very much, Aidio-chan. I will hopefully be able to write more of this story because of you. I also want to thank those who were encouraging me in the past, but maybe just gave up on me. I know I'm stubborn, busy, & lack motivation for weeks/months at a time, but those who were telling me how much they liked this story were doing their part for their time. Now, here is Shard 4. The ominous clouds continued to roll into the town, enshrouding the once luminous sky to a near perfect gray gloom. Reika thought nothing of the drastic alteration of the mood around her. Her attention was on her thought that could not shake that shrill-toned voice of friendship offered to her by Rena. As much as her lips remained sealed shut, and her face contorted in annoyance, the disturbingly pleasant melody only increased in volume between her ears, while her feet guided her along the main path towards her home. "What the heck is with that new girl? It has only been a day since she appeared out of nowhere and already she has been targeted. All because of my presence in that school. The Twin Cross are surely convinced of this...and will make her stay a living hell until she leaves...just like the others did in the past." Reika, being no more than a mile away from the school, felt the ground shift beneath her shoes, subtly rippling in the opposite direction. Though the motion was faint, Reika stopped herself and turned her body back towards the school campus. "What in the world? Was that just a mild earthquake...or something else...?" Without a second of warning, a mound of dust flew into the air in the distance. Reika took a few steps back due to a slight aftershock, hiding her nervousness with grit teeth and a fierce glare of uncertainty. "That definitely came from near the school.." She then realized her current state of mind and made a point to regain her natural, collected composure. Having a strong hatred of the feeling of helplessness, along with the fears that forced randomized thoughts of weakness, she forced a relaxed smirk upon her lips and hiked up her shoulder bag on her shoulder nonchalantly as if nothing had taken place. "Seems pretty dangerous over there. Good thing I left when I did. Sure hope "new girl" got away in time. No one would help her anyway." As Reika's sarcastic tone sang in the breeze, she had began to turn away from the impending danger, when an earth-shattering thud gripped her attention completely. At that very moment, she realized the words she had uttered. Her sky blue eyes stared straight ahead without taking another step, searching within herself for a reasonable explanation of why there existed an undenying tugging at her heart to return to the campus grounds. Maybe...that fool didn't leave yet...but it's not my problem... She was kind to you... It does not matter if it is not your problem....She may be in even more danger right now...and you could be the only one she can turn to... Reika's eyes and fists clenched shut at those words, knowing exactly what the voice within her heart was. Even as she reluctantly turned on her heels in a dash back to the school campus, her resistance to that still, sweet voice continued to rival her flesh-driven soul. "I never asked for her kindness! Why should I be impressed to repay what I willingly declined?!" Because...though you turned away her kindness with sharp words, deep within your heart...you willingly accepted it... Reika's resolve to ignore the inner voice was pushed aside for the time being. Her physically adept body took each of her long strides with ease, leaving her untied red hair unable to catch up with her back. Now finding herself in a race of which the goal surely would lead into peril, Reika set her mind simply on arriving there. She would decide on proper actions later. Another thud shook the ground - Reika did not allow herself to waver from her stride - followed by a cloud of dust kicked up into the air once again. A wave of dusty winds entered into Reika's path, flaring up her knee-high skirt, revealing her smooth, pale skin covering her toned muscles within her thighs. Her eyes narrowed to peer through the cloud; she could perceive the clearing that would lead directly to the campus. Meanwhile, the stimulating feeling of testosterone leaked into the rushing river of blood flowing freely throughout her entire frame. This better not be in vain...or I am going to be really pissed! + © Alexiel Newtype :: @ 6/02/2005 03:13:00 AM +
12.29.2004
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Shard 3
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School let out and the halls were filled with the chatter of many of the students who were on their way to enjoy their freedom from the bonds of the institution once more. Many of them maintained their beliefs in and out of school, and thus gained much popularity within the system. Two people in particular were the best known in the school, not due to their choice to uphold the traditions of Keisan Kame, but rather of their unique leadership skills to lead the males and the females against Reika Masane. Kaoru Nasuragame - the "Saber of Trust" leader - and Yasuna Rainheidt - the "Spirit of Hand" leader; the two Presidents in the plot against the relentless rebel, Reika, and all who chose to be associated with her. Together, they are known among the students as the "Twin Cross." "Reika-chan!" Rena called out to her, doing her best to make herself as noticable as possible within the unorganized gathering of students. Reika was just about to shut her locker before she heard the familiar melodic tone of Rena shouting out to meet her. Another uncomfortable shiver ran up her spine at the sound of her audible, yet piercing high-pitched voice. She attempted to lose the voice trailing behind her, while lugging her carrying bag at her side, but the strangely alluring voice would not cease. Irritation swelled up within her heart, while her lowered eyes laid averted from the many eyes that fell on her; their devious giggles and chuckles closing in around her. "REEEIIIKAAAA-CHAAAAAN!" The ending chan echoed in her ears, into her soul, and disturbed her entire body. She couldn't stand it anymore. Her entire body spun around, not concerned with those who may be in the perimeter of her lengthy edges of wind-catching hair and her brown, leather carrying bag. Though there were other students not too far behind her, her fierce gaze found the bright and cheery purple eyes of the short-statured Rena and clung to them like daggers of ice poised to cut deeply without hesitation. "WILL YOU STOP CALLING ME LIKE THAT ALREADY?!" Rena's pursuit halted quickly as she caught the anger that brewed in Reika's eyes. All eyes were now on the two girls, including Kaoru's and Yasuna's. "I've had just about enough of you calling me and relying on me like I'm your best friend or something! Stop acting like you know me because it's not just sickening, but it's annoying as heck! You don't know anything about me, because if you did, you would get a clue and just leave me alone! So back off!" Reika resumed her quick stride towards the back entrance staring down anyone who got in her way, while everyone who was originally in her way, moved out of her path, leaving Rena to only stare at the stiffened, cold form of the girl who had just rejected her offerings of friendship. As Reika disappeared into the early afternoon sunlight that was slowly being overtaken by gray clouds in the sky, Rena lowered her head and made her way over to her locker. The ear-ringing silence remained in the entire hallway, not because of Reika's explosion, but rather of the passionate tears of sadness that began to roll down the lightly pink cheeks and chest of the broken female. A male member of the "Saber of Trust" took a step towards Rena, but was immediately put into submission by the striking expression of seriousness in Kaoru's green eyes. Kaoru stepped slowly towards Rena, while the other male retracted his step and the remaining students watched his movements closely. Yasuna's countenance revealed an expression of shock at Kaoru making his way towards Rena. Rena's snail-like motions of her retrieval of her books in her locker was eventually interrupted by the soft voice of Kaoru, who stopped beside her, looking down at her with a smile of kindness. "Hyori-san..." Rena's tear-dripped face turned up towards the feminine-looking male that stood over her. Her gentle sniffles could still be heard throughout the student hallway. "Y-Yes? Who are you...?" Kaoru kneeled on one knee to her and took up her hand in both of his, matching his intentful eyes upon hers. "I am Kaoru Nasuragame, and I will protect you from this day forward." His lips pressed against the back of her hand that his hands held firmly in his grasp. Every student in the hallway wooed at Kaoru's unexpected words of affection to a girl who had just joined the school and associated with the most stubborn foe of the Twin Cross. Rena's pale cheeks filled with blood, with a wave of discomfort sweeping over her body at the sight of Kaoru's sweet smile. Yasuna stood there frozen in disbelief - her wide, hazel eyes dialated behind her rounded lenses - remained unable to even clench her twitching hands, as her heart had already skipped numerous beats in a matter of seconds. + © Alexiel Newtype :: @ 12/29/2004 10:19:00 PM +
11.28.2004
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Shard 2
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"Reika Masane?" Rena inquired with an expression upon her slim face that desired absolutely clarity for what was said. "Yes. Reika Masane." Reika was still refraining from turning her head directly toward Rena in order to avoid having a simple girl like Rena become a target of the other students' harsh commentary and pranks. Anyone who had ever been acknowledged by Reika had wound up being spoken to harshly and ridiculed by those who would never seem to take one second to understand the kind of girl Reika was. She had grown accustomed to this method of living, and no longer counted it any loss of her own. "Don't worry about remembering my name.." Reika spoke with an undertone of distain. "You won't forget it...not with my reputation." "Why is that?" Rena frowned. Ugh...! is she going to ask me questions all day long? Does she WANT to make her life miserable? "Don't worry about it," Reika responded flatly, as her wandering eye disappeared, as she brought her full line of sight back to the front of the classroom just as the bell started to ring. Rena's round, purple eyes could not turn away from Reika. Something within her heart spoke to her, and it caused a sadness and an emotional detachment to rise up in her soul; not of her own, but something brought about by Reika's distant and blunt retorts. Knowing that this was not the best time to ask any more questions, Rena submitted to Reika's request, turning her head back to the front of the room with lowered eyes, and did her very best not to think about it. Her petite-sized hand gripped the amethyst stone dangling above the crevase between her well-endowed chest. "Everyone quiet down now," started the female teacher with a hint of defiance in her tone. "Rise to your feet to recite our daily prayer." Rena's eyes grew wide with fear and uncertainty, for she still had not been introduced to the class, nor had she had an opportunity to look through the school handbook. Immediately, she turned to Reika for help, as her hand released her stone and rose to her mouth. "Reika..w-what should I do..?" she stammered. Reika's glaring left eye made contact with Rena once more, as she stood up on her feet. "Just stand up and pretend.." Reika's mumbling voice had an annoyed edge to it that Rena did not like. Rena looked up at Reika - her innocent eyes filled with hurt at how her classmate continued to direct some unsettling vibes towards her - and responded with a slow nod, as she slid her seat back like the rest of the students had, and shot up to her feet. Reika's peripheral vision watched Rena's stiff movements, feeling very unfortunate to have such an awkward klutz beside her. The teacher cupped her hands in front of her chest, and the rest of the class, including Reika, followed her example. A few seconds later, Rena realized that she was the only one not doing so, and quickly copied Reika's posture before the watchful eyes of the teacher could reach her side of the room. The teacher smiled and spoke again in an airy tone: "Si usque edita.." "Si usque edita.." replied the entire class. Rena jumped up, startled by the sudden resounding echo of the class, and turned again to the guidance of Reika. Reika sighed softly and quickly formed the word "Pretend" with her mouth, hoping that Rena understood. "..victus sapientia et lingua.." said the teacher in the same tone as before. "..victus sapientia et lingua.." replied the students. Rena moved her mouth and understood that they were only coping what the teacher said. "..deus no praetendiese." "..deus no praetendiese." As Rena was doing her best to copy the Latin words of the teacher along with the class, the female student behind her slipped her foot around the leg of her chair and slid it farther back away from Rena's backside. No one heard the wooden chair legs drag along the floor over the Latin reply of the students. "Kyrie ignis.." "Kyrie ignis.." "..divine eleison." "..divine eleison." The teacher lowered her hands from her chest, as did the rest of the class. Rena had already caught on to the pattern, and lowered her hands also. "Before you are seated, I would like to introduce to the class our new student." The teacher's kind eyes met with Rena's, making Rena a bit uncomfortable, and motioned her to come forward. Rena slowly removed herself from behind her desk and took fast steps toward the front of the room, nearly tripping over her own feet from her nervousness that was rapidly taking over her motor skills and manner of speech. She stood a few feet away from Reika, staring at her feet, then off to the side, then up at Reika. Her fearful stare was as if a truck were heading directly for her. Reika turned up her lip and focused on a spot above Rena's head, which was easy because of Rena's short stature. I wish she wouldn't look at me like that... "Do not be afraid, my child," the teacher said in a consoling tone. "Just tell the class a bit about yourself." Rena nodded a bit, forced a shaky smile, took in a deep breath, and kept her eyes on Reika, who was still staring over her head. "H-Hello. My name is R-Rena Hyori. I am s-seventeen years old. Five foot, three inches exactly. I c-come from Hokkaido, Japan. I-It is nice to meet you all." Rena bowed to the class, but even Reika knew she had bowed way too low and slowly shook her head. The silver chain connecting the amethyst stone now hung well away from Rena's chest, which revealed a good deal of cleavage to the class. The majority of the males immediately noticed and grinned to one another. The entire class, by tradition, bowed back to Rena "Please take your seats." Rena stepped stiffly back to her seat and held her hands to her chest, hoping to regain her bearings, but as she sat down, not conscious of the changed position of her chair, her backside skimmed the edge of her seat. "AAAAHHH!" Reika whipped her head fully around to see that Rena had landed flat on her butt on the floor. Rena seemed to be alright, though as Rena tried to laugh it off, blaming her own clumsiness as the source of the accident, as the teacher hurried to assist her, Reika's sky blue eyes narrowed and burned fiercely at the girl sitting behind Rena. They've already begun...it won't be long now... Unknown to Reika, the eyes of another male student had been watching in the direction of Rena's seat the entire time, and had witnessed the trick played upon her. Though he chose to join in with being against Reika - keeping students from befriending her as punishment for her cold and seemingly cocky attitude towards those who opposed her - he did not take kindly to the stunt pulled by the girl, who happened to be a close friend of his. This was the one time he would not accept the devious, unrighteous ways of the class, and stand firm in his belief for justice and kindness, even if it meant stepping in himself to protect the first girl who had ever truly caught the attention of his heart, rather than his carnal lusts: Rena Hyori. _______________________ Latin Translation: Si usque edita victus sapientia et lingua deus no praetendiese // This sublime life, I bow to the voice and wisdom of God. Kyrie ignis divine eleison // Divine Lord have mercy. + © Alexiel Newtype :: @ 11/28/2004 03:07:00 AM +
11.22.2004
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Shard 1
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I began writing this today because I felt inclined to release some thoughts in the form of a new story that I hope to develop as I go. This is also a chance for me to try out a different style of character development and a new genre of anime: Yuri. Think of it how ever you please, but I am merely a writer attempting to keep himself inspired in any way possible. At any rate, I hope I can keep this story updated and that people will read it with an open mind. Thanks, and enjoy. IMPORTANT NOTE: This story will contain suggestive situations, and scenes that are not appropriate for those under 17. If you are under 17, I will not take any responsibility for anything that may irk or cause mental instability and/or discomfort. This is a Mature Rated story so please leave if you do not wish to read. _______________________________ Why do you hate me..? I've done nothing to you. Why..? I know I am useless, and just as screwed up as everyone else on this earth.. Why do you continue to kill me with your words..? Why...? Reika's eyes shot open after managing to stir herself awake from her unpleasant dream. She wished it didn't always have to end with her on her knees, begging to be spared the slanders of society, but somehow, it always wound up that way. She hated herself, and those around her because she knew no one would be dealing with the same issues as she was. The same urges. The same feats of taking what should not be, and claiming it for her own personal desires. She couldn't help it; she liked it too much, and it scared her how much she enjoyed it, yet angered her every time it was over. Reika rolled around in her bed, clinging to the fabric of her pillow with her eyes closed and her chest pressed hard against her mattress. All she wanted was to go back to sleep, so that this nearly overwhelming voice calling out to her would lie dormant in her once again, until something else tickled her fancy, and would cause her to lose herself again in the moment she wanted to save for a better time with a better person. Her motions slowly calmed down to complete stillness; she had fatigued herself from her constant figeting. She would surely be glad in the morning that there was more than one way to put herself to sleep. After showering her dirty excess off of her body, she quickly changed into her school uniform and headed out, clinging to her carrying bag tightly, remembering the other night well, but not because she wanted to. It felt good...for the moment..., she thought, but then felt a knot curling up within her stomach and an emptiness looming over her soul, threatening to capture the goodness and belief in God that she held so dear to her. 'I can wash away the dirt and the moisture, but I can't seem to wash away my shame and inner uncleanliness. I hate this...' Reika Masane arrived at Keisan Kame, her private school, with about five minutes to spare. She liked this school and always was as studious and willing to do any research needed to get the grades she wanted, especially in her Religions class. She felt at home in this building, but felt most detached after submitting to her fleshly needs. That broke her faith in herself more than any words anyone could ever say to her, but she could never let anyone know about that. No one could ever find out about how she frees her mind, throwing away every thought that could possibly restrain herself, and gave herself what she wanted. Reika wasn't popular in the school; actually, she was not popular at all, not even with the teachers. It was her second year in Senior High School, and nearly everyone kept their distance from the introverted, red-headed, narrowed-eyed girl everyone refered to as merely "Masane." Behind her back, she was referred to as the "The Masamune," for many people feared being cut by her words or even by her intensive glare upon her teachers and her work. She had heard it slip out once or twice. In reality, she was only doing her best to hear every word said by her teachers and just took her classwork seriously, knowing that everyone was against her. Her teachers humored her and gave her the grades she deserved, but the moment Reika wanted to speak out against those who have slandered her while in the classroom, her teachers would betray her and take the other student's side. No matter what, she could never be right because even in a private school, people were still people and had an image to keep up. Reika was one of the few who did not care about images or facades, thus the cause of her being shunned for not dying her hair black, as well as for her quiet words and her unique ability not to conform to what everyone else was doing, or made to do by their parents. If she didn't want to be involved in a program, she didn't. If someone has done something to her or someone else that is worth being said to a teacher, she would say it, just to satisfy herself, regardless of the consequences. Reika took her seat in the front of the room - she had learned to endure the disrespect of her classmates and did not bother cowering in the back of the room - and folded her hands upon her desk, letting out a deep sigh. "Um...hello," a calm, soothing voice whispered. Reika's sky blue eyes stared straight ahead, though she had never heard that voice in this class before. Whomever that girl is, she isn't talking to me, so why look? "Ummm..hello?" The voice came again through Reika's ears, sending an awkward chill up her spine. It had now become obvious that the voice was certainly aimed at her. She turned her head a little to the left, and let her eye slide to the edge to look at the unknown girl without actually letting anyone know that she was looking. What Reika saw, came as an utter surprise. A girl about seventeen years of age with shimmering black hair with light blue highlights, that looked as though it were her natural hair colors, wearing thin-framed glasses with small oval frames setting atop of her nose; her round, deep purple eyes blinking slowly, filled with signs of questioning and confusion that made Reika quiver; small, slim lips, glossed over by a pink color that complimented her flushed, light pink hue, and a much larger chest size than Reika physically fit body had grown into, and took notice of, along with a strange amethyst stone hanging from a silver chain along the crevase of her chest. The mysterious female placed her finger on the edge of her mouth and began to look up, as if pondering something deeply, appearing highly puzzled. "Umm...is there something you need from me?" Reika said with lacking enthusiasm, yet still shocked that there was someone she had never seen before sitting next to her. "Ummmmm...yes." She returned her gaze to Reika's eyes and smiled kindly to her. "I would like to know your name. I'm sorta new here and I think it would be good to know the name of the person I'll be sitting next to for the rest of the year. Don't you think?" The eyebrow above Reika's slanted blue eye raised. "You want to know the truth?" "Yes, of course," she responsed with a bit of excitement rising in her fluid tone. "The truth is...no." "Oh..well I will tell you mine anyway. My name is Rena Hyori." Reika sighed and closed her eyes, smirking to herself, not knowing what to make of this girl who was attempting to befriend her. Whatever it was that drove this girl to selfless kindness towards a distant and unclean soul, Reika would not let her get anywhere near her. "Masane. Reika Masane." + © Alexiel Newtype :: @ 11/22/2004 10:50:00 AM +
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Pen Alias: Alexiel Newtype DOB: 1986 - 08 - 03 AIM: Ask for it =P Comments: Yes please <3 Main Blog: click here Goals/Ambitions: - To become a anime/manga writer (though being paid to do this would be great, money isn't everything when you're having fun doing it) - To become a better website designer - To be better devoted to my stories & characters Additional Info: - "Koi No Houseki" is an purely original work. I kindly ask that you DO NOT steal my characters, my story, my concepts (anything related to the world of Koi No Houseki), and obviously, my title & plot. "Koi No Houseki" is about a 2nd year Senior high school girl named Reika Masane (17) who meets a new student of the same age named Rena Hyori in Keisan Kame Private School, a fairly strict and religious institution. Reika has her own personal secret that she would rid herself of, if she were able to. At first, Reika is hesitant to allow Rena to get anywhere deep into her life, since no one has ever cared to do so, but that eventually changes, as Rena finds herself in more danger than she can handle, and it's up to Reika to do something about it with the power that will bind them more than Reika ever imagined. A Yuri-based story of requited and unrequited love, hatred, betrayal, discovering that one's intimate desires cannot harm your beliefs - they are undeniable and can be embraced - and action in and out of bed.
Copyright 2004-05 by: Alexiel Newtype |