Ｖａｌ'ｓ.ＳＡＭＰＬＥＳ - - DNP

You stalked me didnt you?

You cant run away from me!	35.3%	[ 12 ]
Nope. 'course not. /cough	17.6%	[ 6 ]
Just whoring around. >3	47.1%	[ 16 ]
Total Votes:			[ 34 ]

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

A bundle moved lazily from under the thick comforter on the queen sized bed. The heavy curtains were drawn over the windows of the room, but despite this, the faint light of the morning sun had already peeked in the room, brushing lightly against the carpeted floor of the room. Diva de Silva, or currently, Diva Yukihada mumbled incoherently and opened her eyes of ruby tiredly and glanced at her clock, which hands' registered 6.45am, and sighed. She turned away from the window and curled up on her opposite side. She was already awake, but she didnt feel like standing up yet. As if on cue, a few minutes later, Diva's door opened up, revealing a maid who held a robe on her hands.

"Diva-sama, Mayura-sama has sent us to check if youre awake. She believes today is your first day in class again. I brought you a robe, your bath will be ready in a few minutes."

"I want lavender today."

That blasted old crone of hers, she's as conservative as she's old. Diva pushed the covers off her naked body and slipped out of bed, taking the robe that the maid had left for her and pulled it on, shuddering slightly at the morning chill as the cotton folds of her robe draped against her body. She headed to her mirror which she loved to call her "mirror wall", and in all honesty, it did fit the name. The mirror itself stretched from floor to ceiling, allowing Diva to fully appreciate herself before it. She allowed her fingers to run over her music player, letting the Muse's song "(Our) Time is Running Out" flow around her, it's lyrics and sensual beat allowing Diva to fully wake up.

I think Im drowning, asphyxiated. I wanna break the spell that you've created. Youre something beautiful.. a contradiction..

"That's right. Beautiful indeed."

Her voice was a silken purr. Diva stood and admired herself before her mirror. Standing at 5'6 and filled and curved at the right spots, she was a vision despite the unflattering robe that she wore. Her face was was sinfully angelic. If she could, she could appear as the angel her mother desperately wanted her to be, but she knew as much as Diva knew, that she was nothing near angelic beneath that face. As easily as Diva could appear angelic, she could just as easily turn twisted with just a small smirk. Lifting a hand up, the girl ran her fingers through the disarray that was her hair. Curling down her back, it was a strange color of moss, though it sounds unattractive, it was one of Diva's assets. Next came her eyes, probably her most noticeable trait. Her eyes were a strange shade of red, blood red. It was a wonder where she got those eyes of hers, but Diva loved them nonetheless. It was striking.

A knock at the door and Diva allowed entrance once more. The maid from earlier appeared once more, announcing that Diva's bath was warm and scented enough. With a nod, Diva sent her off before heading towards the bathroom, Muse's lyrics fading slowly behind her as she left her room.

You.. will squeeze.. the life.. out of me...

The moist-covered tiled-wall of the bathroom welcomed her in it's steamy atmosphere, heavy with a lavender scent that Diva asked for earlier. Taking off the only item of clothing she wore, she lowered herself into the tub with a sigh. Every inch of her that the water touched licked away any remaining cold that clung on her that morning and warmed her greatly. It was a great feeling, but she knew that alone couldnt make her day perfect. Not a day have been perfect for Diva ever since she transferred from Italy to Japan, ever since she stopped being a model, ever since she took the name Yukihada, ever since she stepped into that-- that-- academy, nothing in her life had been perfect. Whatever gods might there be probably hated her and stripped her of everything she loved in life and threw her into this hellish sad-excuse of a life. She was suddenly an outcast, pushed away from the society she wanted so much to be a part of. She never before felt so much shamed.

And as if things werent bad enough, the only time she thought she'd finally have a worthy place to belong to, she was refused to enter the group. Completely. She tried so hard, but to no avail, well then. It was that SA class in Hanagetsu. The idea of it made Diva's blood want to boil. She wanted to be in it so much that not being allowed to even attempt to enter the group introduced her to the word hate. She hated the very idea of not being in the group. It was this very reason that she's going to strike at them in any way possible this year. Her last year.

It probably took Diva around thirty or so minutes until she stepped out of the bathroom. She didnt mind taking so long though, specially since it made the scent of lavender to be completely soaked into her skin. No wonder she'd take the scent with her for the entire day without even having to use any perfume. Diva returned directly to her room. Her uniform was laid out on her bed, freshly pressed. The sight of it alone made Diva frown. She hated it. Hated the fact that it was the normal one and not the white one. She hated being one with the crowd. She wanted to be above the crowd. But it was not as if she can do anything about it. If all, at least she was still slightly above the rest for simply being the chairwoman's daughter. But in comparison to being an SA student, it meant nothing to Diva.

Without as much of a choice, Diva took the uniform and pulled it on. Well, dreary as it was, at least it didnt lessen her beauty, and as far as she was concerned, she made the uniform look good. She dried and brushed her hair afterward, and upon deciding that she looked perfect enough, she pulled her knee-length socks and heels (yes, she wore heels to school. Its not like it was against the dress code), grabbed her bag, and exited her room to go down to the kitchen and get breakfast. She had an hour left.

"You took a while Diva."

If Diva was a cat, she probably have frisked up and hissed, but all she did was stiffen at the sight of her grandmother. Very carefully, she bowed to acknowledge the woman's presence. Only after she nodded did Diva straighten up and took a seat in the table for breakfast. Almost immediately, once Diva sat down, a black slender Siamese cat appeared from under the table and purred as it rubbed itself against Diva's ankle. Luci, Diva's odd-eyed cat (his eyes are blue and green).

"He has been waiting for you. Cleaned up an entire saucer of milk."

It was obvious that Mayura was trying to strike up a conversation with her granddaughter, but all Diva gave her was a nod as she fixed her own sandwich. She didnt want to talk for two things. One: fear of saying something wrong and offending her grandmother, and second: she simply didnt feel like accepting the company of Mayura. She knew that despite the seemingly warm attempt at a conversation, Mayura was extremely strict and whenever things didnt go her way, chaos will ensue. It was because of her that Diva had to drop the name de Silva and stop her modeling career. That was enough to make Diva dislike the woman.

"Where's mother?"

"Dont talk with your mouth occupied, child. And she already left. There's a car waiting for you though. Finish your breakfast and get ready to leave."

Diva momentarily froze when Mayura chastised her and only continued her eating when she continued to answer her question. The rest of the breakfast stayed quiet until Diva excused herself and stood up. It was then that Mayura herself stood up. For a moment, Diva wondered until her grandmother urged her to go. It would seem that she wanted to see her granddaughter off for the first time. But just as Diva was about to disappear inside the car, Mayura held her off with one reminder.

"This is your last year. I expect the best results."

"Of course, it will be as you wish it, Mayura-baa-sama."

With another nod, Diva pulled her door close and was driven off to the academy. Once alone in the back seat, Diva had the insane urge to scream, just to let out the violent frustration inside her that had been bottled ever since she saw her grandmother in the kitchen. It has always been like that. There was really no warmth between the two despite how much they tried to be civilized with each other (most of the time when Diva can control her patience) and no matter how much they tried to pull up a conversation. Despite the fact that they were related by blood, there was nothing else that they shared. The house maybe.

Calm, she needed to calm down before she arrives at the academy. She must keep her public figure. The public never knew of the real Diva, the frustrated, almost-violent, hateful girl that she was was replaced by a friendly facade that Diva's mother forced her to take. Diva didnt really have anything against it, it made her popular. She'd give them the Diva they believed in in return for their unrelenting attention on her. It was fair as far as she was concerned.

Leaving the confines of the car, she continued towards the academy's gates where she was greeted by numerous people both male and female. The hi's and hello's as well as the good morning's and how are you's were part of Diva's daily routine in the academy. Putting on a cheerful smile, she waved back at whoever did at her, greeted back until almost every dispersed into their own classroom. Not really feeling up to going to her lit class yet, she took a different course into the campus grounds. It wasnt like her spineless teachers would tell that she didnt go to class anyway. They wouldnt dare incur the wrath of the chairwoman's daughter unlike a certain teacher before in Hanagetsu who did so which resulted to her getting fired from the academy, she should even consider herself lucky that her teaching license wasnt taken. If there was one thing Diva never failed to succeed at, it was twisting stories to her benefit. But for now, that is simply another story to tell.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

ＷＨＡＴ ＡＮＧＥＬ ＷＡＫＥＳ ＭＥ ＦＲＯＭ ＭＹ ＦＬＯＷＥＲＹ ＢＥＤ?
x
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxOut of this wood do not desire to go:
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxThou shalt remain here, whether thou wilt or no.
x
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxAnd ＩxxＤＯxxＬＯＶＥxxＴＨＥＥ: therefore, go with me!

Haruko sat there unmoving for a short while, sighing occasionally, replaying the scene that took place earlier. Naoe. As far as she could remember, the moment her eyes laid on his form, a sudden attraction came over her and ever since then she felt that unnatural pull from him. It was confusing at first, she didnt even know the guy, not personally, not as much as she wanted to. It was love at first sight, there was no other explanation. Over the entirety of last year, she tried her best to gain his attention in every way possible. She yearned for him. Occasionally she'd step back and think about where this attraction of hers originated.

Naoe, as far as she was concerned, was the most good looking person she had ever met. It was overwhelming, unnatural, unearthly. In fact, even before Naoe was part of the SA, Haruko was sure that he was already known around just by being who he was. Its not hard to guess that Haruko isnt the only one who had fallen head over heels for the boy. However, though its hard to believe, Haruko was never one for physical attraction. She loved being in love, and if she cared merely for the physical aspects of a person, she'd be in love with a lot of people. So surely, the reason for her attraction with Naoe was more than his looks. But.. what else is there? Admittedly, there isnt much about Naoe that she knows, the boy was very quiet about his personal life, and it didnt help that he seemed to stir away from her every time she tried to come near.

Frustrated, Haruko reached over for another cookie and devoured it, grumbling as she did. She foolishly believed that there was a chance for her attraction for Naoe to die or at least lessen during the vacation, after all, that was three.. four months of not seeing each other. But she shouldve known better. If she didnt stupidly believed the so-called "possibility" perhaps she wouldnt be so caught off guard like she was earlier. It was embarrassing!

"Earth to Izanami Haruko! Get your act together!"

The girl sighed and closed her eyes, leaning back against her chair. She needed to calm down, to go back to her normal cheery self before she walks out of the kitchen and back to the greenhouse. She doubted she'd see Naoe but just in case. Haruko took a deep breath and went through one of the few things that could always calm her down. Acting. It was a secret of hers only because she never talked about it. But she loved stepping into different characters', she found it exciting. Always something new. But there was one that she always loved doing. Titania of A Midsummer Night's Dream. She could practically recite the entire part of the fairy queen if she was inspired. With her eyes still kept close, she imagined herself in the queen's shoes, calling out to her love. Just as she would call out to...

"Out of this wood do not desire to go! Thou shalt remain here, whether thou wilt no. And I do love thee, therefore go--"

"Is this for me?"

"--with m- AHH!"

Haruko's eyes shot open in horror as she heard his voice. How? Why? Why didnt she feel him come in? Why didnt she hear anything? Actually, that was easy to answer, whenever Haruko goes into her "acting" moments, she often takes it too seriously to the point that she blocks everything else with her concentration. Too fast-- she turned about to look at him, to check if she wasnt imagining things, but her sudden movements caused her chair to topple to the side, sending her down into the floor with a loud thump on her backside. A groan and a hand to her lower back, she reminded herself of the person there with her and quickly, her head snapped back up to stare straight into his eyes. Her own eyes widened, she could hear her blood pumping in her ears and feel the heat on her cheeks. Oh woe! Will this day never turn right?!

"Na- na- na- na- Naoe-kun!"

A nightmare. She was having a nightmare. Hurriedly, she pushed herself back up on her feet as well as the chair that fell over and went to the other side of it, as if the chair was a good divider between them too. Unable to keep her eyes on him any longer out of embarrassment, she kept her eyes downcast, suddenly finding the marble floor of the kitchen far too interesting than usual.

"Im sorry I didnt hear you come in-- please help yourself to anything you want. I was-- I was just about to leave myself."

Haruko groaned inwardly. On any normal day, she wouldnt have excused herself. If she wasnt so embarrassed, she wouldve done anything to stay with him. What would he think of her now? Oh no-- he cant possibly think that she was avoiding him, can he? If anything, she didnt want him to think that at all! Fidgeting uncomfortably, she tried to turn things around.

"But if you want, I can stay here with--"

If he wants?! Of course he bloody wont want her, that much was made clear by him. He didnt want her around, if he did, he wouldnt avoid her so much. But-- him being here, it couldnt be a coincidence. She did say it out loud that she was coming here, and what did it mean that he followed her here? If anything, Haruko wont call it "avoiding". Curiosity suddenly overcame her embarrassment. Why did he come? With an attempt to calm down, she took the chair again and sat down, though still keeping her eyes downcast, this time on her lap.

"Ah-- Im sorry, its not like Im avoiding you or anything, its just-- I dont know. Bad day?

She looked up then to give him a glance and an unsure smile before turning her eyes away again. Finding a good distraction, she took another cookie and nibbled on it quietly. She was talking too much wasnt she? Well, of course she was. That was the main thing she loved doing. To talk. However, as she waited for him to talk, her mind wandered momentarily to what she was doing before he came. Did he hear her pitiful monologue?! She gasped sharply, forgetting that her mouth was occupied with the cookie she was eating-- bad idea-- and found herself coughing shortly after.

Oh woe, woe is me! When will I stop making myself look like an idiot before him?!

Good move, Haruko... not.

What thou seest when thou dost wake,
Do it for thy true-love take.

ＬＯＲＤ,xxxxxＷＨＡＴxxxxxＦＯＯＬＳxxxxxＴＨＥＳＥxxxxxＭＯＲＴＡＬＳxxxxxＢＥ!

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

It was just one of those days, that freaking Pierrot had her and her manservant along with Gil to once again pursue a chain in hopes of finding one of her memories that had been lost through time, but once again that ended in a disaster. It was hard for Alice to battle with one chain after another as of late, knowing the toll it has on Oz, she really cant use the entirety of her abilities, not to mention Oz's sympathy for the contractor's well being also keeps her from going all out. Its not that Alice is completely apathetic, but that boy just seemed to lose his mind at the most crucial times.

Speaking of which.. where was Oz?

He said he wanted to go out on a walk, he probably was with Gil doing god knows what. So she said she'll stay behind cause she wanted a bit of rest, but werent they taking a bit too long? Besides she was hungry.

Alice paced the room for a few more minutes until she decided to step out of her room to officially look for Oz, but before she could even take a step out of her room, she saw Liam running her way. Surprised, she stayed where she was, hand on the doorknob as she watched him approach her, however, the look on his face didnt seem good, taking care not to over think, she waited until he spoke.

"Alice! Break-- Xerxes Break, have you seen him?"

"That clown? No. Have you seen Oz?"

"You mean he isnt with you? Tch, this is bad. Please stay in your room, I'll look for them!"

"H-hey! Liam--!"

Bewildered, Alice could only look at Liam's retreating back. What had happened? Chains? The Baskervilles? The headquarters didnt seem that restless though, seeing as she's not seeing groups of people running around screaming orders. However Liam seemed bothered. She wouldve followed despite being told to stay in her room, she never really was one for following directions, but something inside her kept her from leaving the room. If there was something wrong, Oz would come to her, wouldnt he? If that would be the case, then she would have to stay in the room and wait. But waiting was never her forte.

Minutes more passed. She would press her ear against her door, straining to hear anything, be it hurried footsteps or hushed voices, but she heard nothing. Annoyed, she returned to the middle of the room and pace back and forth, probably making a path on the carpet on the floor.

Then she heard the door open.

Assuming it was Oz, she turned around sharply with an annoyed expression.

"Just where were you-- Pierrot?!"

Apparently it wasnt Oz who found her, instead it was Xerxes Break who stood in her room, calling out her name as if he was playing a game of hide and seek.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

For a brief moment, her annoyance at seeing Break was replaced by relief, however it didnt make sense to her. Perhaps it was the single fact that she did consider him her "friend" and she really cant deny there are some moments when the clown was quite useful and dependable despite the fact that his methods are a bit weird. But then again, weird is normal for him.

"Pierrot! Something's happening out there, have you seen Oz?"

She ignored the worrying talk since she didnt really minded it, much more in comparison with the next words he said. Saying that it isnt safe, it only meant that he knew what was going on out there, and that he knows where Oz was. Good thing she didnt have to force the information out of him. It kinda threw him off how he offered straight out that he'd bring her to Oz, there was a moment of suspicious doubt, but as quickly as she doubted him, she proceeded to ignore him. Alice was about to walk out with him willingly when he suddenly grabbed her. Hard.

"Oi-- Break! Not too tight!"

Thanks to the great difference in height, Alice found herself stumbling after Break every now and then. Sure she might not be the most delicate and gentlest girl around but she's not used to being handled roughly. Of course complaint arose but was left unheard. There was a hurried undertone in Break's actions. Something was wrong, very wrong. She was about to shout out and demand an explanation but it seemed like she didnt need to. Alice turned sharply at the voice that came around from the end of the corridor. Saying "we've got him" and the use of the name "Kevin Regnard" by the Pandora officials and Break's strange actions. Adding them together, Alice found the answer highly disturbing. She turned to face Break while trying to tug herself free from him.

"What's the meaning of this clown? Trying to get me into your mess!

The next sound that came from her was a surprised gasp when she suddenly found her back pressed against Break's chest firmly, his hold was so firm that she wasnt sure if she was aware that he was capable of exerting that much effort. But that wasnt what caught her entirely off guard. It was the knife the he pointed at her neck. It was a foolish thing, threatening a Chain with a knife, Alice knew they both knew that, but she didnt like tolerating pain so all she could do was crane her head back to keep herself away from the blade, muttering a curse under her breath.

Damn Oz for leaving at that moment! She was as powerless as a normal human girl at the moment, she was sure that if only Oz was around to release her power, she wouldnt be in this situation. But the "what if's" arent really helping at the situation.

"Get any closer and she dies! That's right...I'll use Hatter!"

Alice's eyes widened in both disbelief and fear. It was impossible, he did say he needed her to obtain the Will of Abyss, and with her being the Will's twin, she didnt believe he'd risk killing her. Inflicting pain on her was a definite possibility but killing her--? She didnt want to believe it, she didnt even want to think about it. She couldnt die here, not when she still has to gather her memories-- and Oz-- especially Oz, she cant leave him! She had to do something.. say anything.. as intent as Break seemed to be when it came to saving his own skin, Alice had the same conviction.

"Ha ha ha! Very funny Break-- ah-- ha.. You dare threaten me? Im the Bloodstained Black Rabbit!"

She could see that the rest of Break's pursuers backed off, and that was good-- so far, the more they moved back, the safer she was, after all, didnt Break said she'll kill her if they come closer? Then their distance from them was her only comfort right now. The little taunt from earlier was obviously forced. She didnt want to admit it, but she was really scared. She was powerless and they both knew it, her and Break, and in truth, she really feared Hatter's ability to wipe out Chains. She had seen it at work almost twice now, once at Cheshire lair, and the other during the attack on Leverru. In fact, it was probably the only Chain that can be used to threaten Alice. However, she took comfort in the fact that Break's body couldnt probably hold him up if he used Hatter.

"Tch."

She was at a huge disadvantage. Break backed away, and a shiver went down her spine as he leaned down to whisper something in her ear. Without enough time to process what he said, Alice found herself shutting her eyes close when she heard the glass of the window break.

This man is crazy!

A scream left her lips as she realized they were both toppling towards the ground headfirst, but as Break somehow managed to land on both his feet as well as hiding the knife back in his sleeves, Alice could only stay silent as she tried to catch her breath despite her want to lash out at him. But before she could even start screaming her frustrations at him, she found her feet off the ground once more though this time it was because Break lifted her in his arms again, just like he once did. The only difference there is this time, is that he wasnt saving her. She screamed, flailing wildly to get his hold off her.

"Get your hands off me! Break, I demand you let me go!"

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Alice couldnt remember the exact moment she decided to stop flailing around. She was tired of moving restlessly and screaming her lungs out, it was annoying that it did nothing to change the situation. The setting itself was absurd, to be carried-- no, kidnapped-- by a human. A Chain like her! The Bloodstained Black Rabbit, under the power of a human? It alone was laughable. Alice gritted her teeth together and tried to call out to Oz in her mind. Would it work? She didnt know, she never had to try before. Well no matter, it wouldnt take long for the entire headquarters in Pandora to find out what happened, surely they'll tell Oz and Gil. Surely they'll look for her.. right?

It was about time when Break put her back down on her feet. She staggered for a moment though it didnt take long for her to regain her balance. Alice wanted to resume screaming at him but she took a moment to study her surroundings. Bad, it was bad. She couldnt recognize the place, and it was getting dark. If she wanted to help herself and try to return to the city, she must move. And soon.

After looking around she turned and frowned at Break, hearing him apologize for what he did. But at the moment, Alice doubted there was an ounce of sincerity in his words. This was Break. Nothing in the man was worth trusting anymore. Just like a clown, his words are full of tricks. No doubt there's more up his sleeve than just that knife he threatened her with earlier. Standing her usual stance of aggression, she stood with her legs apart and arms crossed from behind him as he bent down to drink.

"You're insane! You just threatened my life and now you ask me to have a care for what happens to you and your life? Youre not even supposed to be alive anymore!"

The words hissed from her lips. Turning on her heel, she turned away from him and walked off, ignoring his invitation to drink. She did walk away, but her actions were full of uncertainty. She had no idea on what to do at the moment. She didnt even know which direction to head to. She was frustrated. At Break for kidnapping her, at Oz and Gil for leaving her, and at herself for not having the power. Crying out, she dug her heels into the ground and ran off.

Her eyes were burning though she didnt understand why. She didnt want to cry, but as of late, ever since she grouped with Oz, her emotions were much closer to the surface than ever. The more memories they gathered, the more human she felt again. Just like that one time in Cheshire's lair.. or maybe even that first memory from the pocket watch. She cried so much. She cried because of her memories, but this time it's entirely different. She wanted to cry out of fear. She knew she had no control on what's going to happen from now on. Her only hope was for Oz to find her.

"Oz-- find me Oz."

Her steps faded from a run until she simply leaned against a tree and sat on the ground against it, hugging her knees against her body as she cried.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Alice didnt know how much she cried, or how long, but the only time she looked up was when she heard Break's voice again. So fast-- he found her so fast. She looked up at him, she wanted to summon her anger again, but the only emotion that came up was despair. New tears moistened her already burning eyes. Just how long was she crying? Her arms, her legs, her body felt stiff.

When Break reached down to grab her wrist, her hand twitched suddenly, surprised at how warm he felt. It was only after he mentioned how cold she was did she realized that she was trembling. Whether it was because of the force of her tears or the cold, she didnt know. She could hear Break continue to talk, but his words no longer reached her ears.

She no longer resisted when he picked her up again. What good would it do? Nothing. So instead she just took advantage of his heat when he picked her up. Tears still poured from her eyes, but at least she was no longer trembling. She curled up in his arms, one hand gripping his shirt. Alice didnt even take notice of her surroundings anymore. She just stayed still, her eyes unfocused as she eventually calmed herself down.

A certain memory flashed in her mind as she was in Break's arms however. It was strange. It was different. She cried once in Oz's arms, that was of relief. But wasnt there one time, in Cheshire's lair, that she cried in someone else's arms as well? Jack. That was Jack Vessalius. Why did she cry then? She couldnt remember anymore. But Oz and Jack both made her feel safe in their arms. In Break's arms however.. she didnt know. His personality was so strange that she could never figure out how she would treat him. Alice closed her eyes, tired. She both felt safe and threatened in his arms.

She would be safe until the time he no longer has any use of her. Then she blacked out.

Alice shifted and slowly opened her eyes, and for a moment she thought she just dreamed about what happened, of Break kidnapping her. She was on a bed-- though it wasnt as comfortable and she felt heat in the room. Where was she? Groaning, she sat up and rubbed her eyes before opening them. She was in a different room, one she didnt recognize. Then she saw Break's form against a chair. So she didnt dream it all.

Break smiled then, he smiled as if them being there wasnt strange at all, as if he didnt just kidnap her. He offered her a can of his usual sweets. The idea of food came to her and her stomach suddenly growled. A faint blush came on her cheeks out of embarrassment which caused her to turn around again and curl back down on the bed, her back facing her.

Yes, she was hungry. But it wasnt like she'll tell him that. In fact, she didnt want to speak as much as a word at him. She was angry at him. She wanted to hold on that. Alice knew his peculiar attitude, adapting so quickly at situations, making light of things, if Alice wasnt careful, he'd probably make her forget her anger for him. She couldnt have that. She wouldnt dare give him the advantage of manipulating her emotions at least.

He shouldnt be trusted. Not before, not now, not ever.

Shivering, she shifted on the bed a bit and pulled the covers entirely over her, trying to ignore the other presence in the room.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Alice tried not to scoff at hearing Break converse with Emily. The guy was nuts. However, she gave the slightest reaction at the mention of meat. Well it cant be helped, she was hungry and she sure needed more than just a ball of sugar to fill herself up. Her stomach growled in complaint. But she just ignored it and instead, forced herself to fall asleep in the silence of the room.

A few minutes passed. Ten. Twenty. Thirty.

The sleeping girl suddenly woke up, gasping for air. The very air around her was suffocating her. At first she was dreaming, like those times when the Will would interfere with her daily "living" if you could call it that. But this time, it would seem that it was not the case. The first thing she was was darkness, but with the help of the fire that Break placed upon the fireplace, it allowed her to catch the flickering shadow of the third presence in the room. It was too dark of a shadow. Alice was just about to move, leave the bed, wake Break up, anything, but before she could do so, she found herself slammed back against the bed, in fact she heard it crack from the sudden weight.

Air was knocked out of her as the incoming Chain dropped itself on her, it's atrocious breath wafting against her face. The scream she wanted to let out was suddenly gone due to lack of air however, it didnt take long. Taking advantage of Alice's surprise, the Chain sunk it's claws on her shoulder, this time causing Alice to scream out successfully, in obvious pain.

She wanted to fight, however, what could she do? She cant summon even the slightest strength she had, B-Rabbit's power were completely sealed. She was tired, hungry, and now hurt. She was also pissed, she could feel her power under her skin, moving with rage, but unable to come out. Without any other option, she cried out to Break. He would help her, he needed to. He needed her.

"Break-- Break! XERXES!"

She flailed, kicked, anything to keep herself from completely pinned down. The faintest scratches caught her, but try as she might, if ever she managed to nudge the Chain off of her, it was only a mere inch, never enough for her to move away. Not even enough for her to force herself to fall from the bed itself.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

A sudden surge of relief overwhelmed Alice when the Chain's weight was shoved off of her. It was an automatic reaction from her to jump off the bed and get away, but once again, she found herself in Break's arms. Her complaint died halfway when she noticed that Break was still trying to fight with the Chain. She found it amazing actually, that someone could deliver such blows while holding her. Not really wanting to burden him anymore, all she could do then was to hold on tight as to not fall and give Break more trouble to deal with. When Break staggered, it wasnt lost on Alice, she felt him almost lose his balance. She looked up in slight concern but before she could say anything else, Break had already made his way outside, running once more with her in his arms.

Pain shot through her shoulder every time she was shaken and bounced in his arms as he ran, she bit on her lip until it bled, forcing herself not to scream at the pain. The only noise that came from her were those sharp intake of breaths whenever the pain became too much to handle. Since when did she become so fragile? Or maybe she never just realized it since she always depended on her power. Always depended that Oz will be around to provide for her. Never imagined she will be taken away.

The further Break ran, Alice finally allowed a few tension leave her body. Even in her current state, she was still able to sense the Chain's presence now that she's fully awake, and it was almost gone. It was probably the work of Hatter. Mad Hatter, Break's Chain. He had to use it for her when she couldve.. on her own.. if only. Alice growled under her breath. She didnt like the feeling of being a damsel in distress. She knew the strain of Hatter's power on Break, the concern she felt was almost the same concern she felt every time she used her power about it's effect on Oz's body. Only-- Hatter seemed to strain Break more than she ever could Oz in a fight. And he had to use it-- he had to use it because she cant protect herself. She could only clench her fists in anger.

Alice kept quiet the entire time until Break put her down on the ground. By then, the pain was turning her shoulder numb. Numb? Why was she numb? Now that she noticed it, her surroundings were still moving. She felt dizzy, and weak. And cold. She didnt even notice Break until he took her arm, by which she responded with a scream. His hold wasnt even that firm, but the slight movement made the numbness disappear for a moment, shooting pain to every nerve of her being. Small beads of sweat formed on her forehead but she never said a thing, she was too preoccupied trying to keep herself breathing regularly to complain about anything. Something was wrong. Terribly wrong.

Her hand came up automatically to her now-bandaged shoulder before she turned to Break with a frown. He was obviously exhausted, and seeing him like that made her feel restrained for some reason. She was wounded and he was tired. There was no way they'd get to anywhere at the moment. And she didnt like the idea of spending more time than necessary in such an isolated place. But what could she do? As much as she wanted to, she didnt have it in her to leave him there-- not after he saved her. Sure he probably just did it for himself, after all, he needed her. And even if she did have the will to leave, she doubted she'd get very far. She had no idea where they were and traveling alone wounded and powerless, even she knew it was a bad idea. Break's voice broke through her fuzzy thoughts then.

"Break you.. YOU STUPID CLOWN!"

The outburst surprised even her. She had been meaning to thank him but apparently, all she could say then was that he was stupid. As far as she was concerned though, everything he did so far had been stupid. Kidnapping her was stupid. Threatening her was stupid. Taking her away from Oz and restraining her in more ways than one was stupid. Straining himself for her was stupid.

Alice took a breather then, still trying to catch her breath for some reason. She was beginning to feel even colder, and somehow, she knew it wasnt the climate that was making her cold. She was starting to feel sick. But even then, she was determined not to let it show.

"T-Thank you."

She tried to consider his current situation. Shouting wouldnt really help either of them at the moment, and she was running out of energy. Just where was Break getting the energy to even make light of the things that had happen so far? For a moment, Alice thought he was starting to take the situation seriously until he called her "little bunny". Obviously an effort to ease the tension in the atmosphere.

"Well-- the.. Chain it-- it's gone. I suppose we can rest. We really should just.. return. To Oz.. Gil and Sharon."

Unable to keep her eyes open any longer, she fell forward to the ground, her eyes closed. Whether it was because she simply fell asleep from exhaustion or fainted from feeling sick was unknown.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

There was only a faint buzz present in her head when she came to.

..where? Where am I? So dark..

Alice didnt open her eyes just yet, not that she didnt want to, its that she cant. There were voices around her, voices that she found unfamiliar. She tried to recall what happened despite the headache it gave her. What happened? She remembered being attacked. She remembered Break. She remembered hearing panic in his voice as he called her name. Was that real or was she imagining things?

A dream..?

Ne.. Alice. Why are you here?

Who..?

Hee~ Alice is dying. She's DYING. How wonderful!

What are you talking about? Im not--

Hey Alice.. why are you alive? You shouldnt be alive. Youre not human. Youre dead..! Why are you Alice?!

No. Stop it-- Im..

Youre no one. You shouldnt exist.. No one cares for you. See? He LEFT you.. Ah ha~ Ha ha ha ha! HE LEFT YOU TO DIE! YOURE ALONE ALICE. ALONE! ALWAYS!

"NO!"

Alice sat upright, gasping, her eyes wide. A dream. Damn Will of the Abyss. A sharp pain tugged at her shoulder as she finally became aware of her surroundings. Ah.. thats right. She really was attacked. But what happened after? Where was she? Where was Break? The girl looked around in wonder, only to see unfamiliar faces which apparently looked surprised at her sudden awakening. Not one face was familiar. Realizing this, heat quickly covered her cheeks and she looked down-- and wished she didnt. The only thing covering her body was a bundle of bandages wrapped around her torso. Her coat, her blouse were taken. The only items that was left on her that was originally hers were her skirt and her boots. With a surprised squeal, she gathered the blanket that fell on her lap and quickly pulled it up to her chin, then she heard a female chuckle.

"Dont worry miss, I was the one who wrapped your wound. Nasty thing. Good thing that gentleman you were with brought you here as quickly as possible. Any longer and you wouldve been beyond any help."

A look of confusion came upon her face. What gentleman? Break? Did Break bring her here-- wherever "here" may be? What did this girl mean she would be beyond any help? Was her injury that bad? She was simply scratched-- surely, as a Chain, she would recover only a few hours after being injured. Ah well, of course these humans wouldnt know about that tiny fact, they'd treat her as if she's a normal human being. But still she couldnt help but ask.

"..what happened to me?"

"You were poisoned. Whatever caused your injury poisoned you. It's a rare kind of poison actually, if it succeed on completely mixing with your bloodstream, we wouldnt have known what to do. Thankfully, it was extracted before it spread. No worries now, miss. Just a few days rest and you'll be fine--"

"Poisoned?!"

"Yes, the young man who was with you mustve known it. He rushed into here despite being so exhausted. In fact, he fainted as soon as you were taken from him."

"That man.. um.. where is he?"

Alice just had to ask, to confirm. It wasnt even that long since he ran away with her and things have already happening, she wouldnt be surprised if he just left her here and went on his own way, maybe he realized that she would only be a burden seeing as her current condition isnt exactly helping. And then there was the Will of the Abyss..

"Oh, he's resting in the other room. If you can stand up, maybe you can go visit him?

Alice no longer said anything and took her coat that the female returned to her. She nodded and it was enough to have the other girl lead the way. Her first step though wasnt very successful. She found herself out of balance, though fortunately, the female nurse caught her with a kind smile. Bewildered she asked about how long she had stayed there in that room, sleeping. It was unbelievable to hear that she slept for three days straight. No wonder she lost her sense of balance. However, she insisted to visit Break. She needed to see him there with her own eyes. To confirm that he hadnt left, and embarrassing as it may be, she allowed the nurse to support her as she walked.

A huge sigh left her when she saw Break sleeping peacefully. So he hadnt left. Stupid Will of the Abyss. She really should stop giving her nightmares. Hearing her sigh, the female looked at her with a raised brow.

"Tired? Would you like to go back to your room?"

"No, I--"

The human Chain shook her head and turned to look at Break again. Why didnt he leave? Maybe-- maybe he was too tired to leave yet. Maybe he was indeed planning on leaving her, and it just so happened that she woke up first. Suddenly determined, Alice detached herself from the female who supported her and stumbled her way into the single chair at Break's bedside and stubbornly sat there.

"Im fine, I'll stay here."

The female, though confused by Alice's actions only nodded and left the room with an audible click of the closing door.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

There was nothing but silence ever since the nurse left, perhaps the only sounds present were their breathing, hers and Break's. He was sleeping so soundly. Had he recovered yet? He looked tired, and he had reason to be.. maybe. It had been three days, or so the nurse said. What had he been doing then? For some reason, she wanted to know.

He looked calm. Suddenly feeling curious, she reached a hand over his face. He had shared his history with them when they came to Barma's. While she didnt show much reaction, she was actually very surprised, shocked even. His history with the Will, with her twin. She had always known, or felt rather that she had a connection to the Will, albeit a one she didnt like, but she never imagined it'd be that.. much. She had no words for it. Twins. She brushed her hand gently against the hair that covered his other eye, wondering how it looked like. It must've been torture what happened to him.

Surprisingly, she felt angry.

Then she hastily pulled her hand back. He shifted in his sleep and talked. For a moment she thought he had awaken and she slightly felt panicked at the thought of him finding out about what she had been doing just earlier. But upon spotting the slightest hint of drooling at the corner of his mouth, her own lips made an annoyed twitch. So he was sleeptalking after all. In fact, Alice wanted to laugh at his dream. Sweets. Imagined that. She shouldve guessed.

Alice was just leaning back against her chair when she saw his eye open. Did he wake? How long was he awake? She was about to ask when he she found herself confused. He just invited her to eat.. sweets. Was he dreaming still? Or did he, for some reason, had already confused reality with dreaming? The stupid clown. Why was she worried again? He didnt look like anything to be worried about. How stupid. But it would seem his stupidity refused to end there.

"Why the long face? Frowning is so unlike you Alice~"

"What are you--"

Amethyst eyes widened as Break sat up and moved the corners of her lips upward, forcing a smile to appear on her face. Quickly, she pulled away, a blush appearing on her face at being caught off guard. Alice slapped his hands away and returned the frown on her face.

"What the hell are you doing Break? Wake up Pierrot!"

Her hands gripped the edges of her chair, firmly keeping herself seated. Her heart pounded for some reason, enraged it slammed against her chest repeatedly. She shook her head, willing herself to return back to normal. Silence. Since a very long time, she found herself speechless, completely out of words for comeback, to throw back at him. Its a feeling she didnt like.

"Well whatever. It seemed that youre feeling just fine and awake. Im hungry."

She mumbled quietly under her breath and shot off her chair, as if the chair itself electrocuted her off. Without another word, she turned on her heel to leave the room. She needed food. Lots of it. Her stomach didnt feel good. She felt sick again. A different kind of sick in comparison to her injuries a few days ago. A kind of sick she didnt understand. At the moment, she knew she needed to get away from Break. For one reason or another.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Hungry. Hungry. Hunggrryyyy.

Alice puffed her cheeks childishly as she heard her stomach grumble. Where was that female who helped her earlier? Maybe she knows where to get some food. A groan escaped her lips, maybe it wasnt a good idea after all to go ahead without Break. He probably knows the place better than she did. Somehow she doubted he slept the entire three days away, so perhaps he had some time to wander around, and that included knowing where the kitchen is.

The awkward feeling that she had ever since Break acted weirder than his normal weirdness was still present. It made her feel uncomfortable, sick to her stomach. Alice didnt want to ponder on it longer than she should so she just shrugged it off as hunger. Perhaps if she ate, the feeling of being sick will leave. Such things were always simple to Alice. She refused to think about complicated things, and whenever the time comes that she must, she always shrugs it off, believing they can be fixed easily by the usual things she's used to doing. Most of the times, everything for her can be fixed by violence. Or force. Or, with the current situation, food.

Not realizing that she had already spaced out, Alice unknowingly bumped against a person who was coming her way. Stumbling backwards with a curse, she tried to regain her balance-- but whoever bumped against her was, reached out to grab her arm, helping her steady herself. Rubbing her head, she looked up to see a kind-faced man. Always wary of unfamiliar faces, Alice stiffened and pulled away like a cornered animal. But instead of taking offense, the man before her brought his hands up in a "giving up" gesture.

"Ah-- Im sorry miss, did I frighten you?"

Alice merely kept silent with her guard up as she kept her eyes on the person before her. However, the man straightened up with a quiet chuckle and rubbed the back of his head before explaining.

"Well, if it helps, I was the doctor your friend approached to help you. Are you feeling okay?"

"Doctor..?"

The man nodded again and introduced himself with the name Peter, however, Alice was too distracted to listen in to the details of him curing her when a familiar scent wafted to Alice's position, causing her mouth to water along with her stomach grumbling. Meat. Alice swallowed. Hungry.. The doctor mustve noticed the sudden change of attitude from Alice when he chuckled and patted the human Chain's shoulder.

"You must be hungry, after all youve been sleeping for three days. When Melanie told me you woke up, I asked her to cook something for you and your friend. It must be done by now."

"Melanie?"

"Indeed, she was the girl who took care of you the entire time you were asleep."

The female who Alice woke up to, Melanie, as the doctor said, came around the corner and waved at them, urging them to what Alice guessed was the kitchen. And with the scent of food hanging around her, it didnt take her long to follow the female to the kitchen, all thoughts of Break completely shoved away at the thought of food.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

"Alice-chan! Just in time!"

Alice didnt need much encouraging from Melanie to eat. Her feet easily led her to the table where she quickly sat down and said thanks for the food before helping herself. It was fortunate that there was a decent serving of meat on the table. Probably seeing her eagerness, Melanie just chuckled and proceeded to working around in the kitchen-- whatever it was she was doing. Alice didnt really pay attention to anything else when food was given to her. Giving Alice food makes her happy, simple as.

She was, in fact, too busy eating that she didnt notice Break's presence enter the room until he acknowledged her. Surprised, the girl gasped, succeeding on choking herself. With an embarrassed face, she grabbed her glass of water and gulped down half of it's contents before turning to Break with a glare, annoyed at being disturbed during her meal. Feeling well? Yes, she was already feeling better since seeing him but her pleasant mood suddenly vanished upon seeing him. A normal reaction to Break from her as far as she was concerned. Last time she checked, she rarely ever enjoyed the clown's presence anyway. His presence alone meant trouble.

Finding it useless to throw back a retort, the girl simply rolled her eyes at his request for tea (figures) and resumed her meal. For a moment, she felt comfortable eating until she eventually felt Break's gaze on her. Turning uncomfortable, she lifted her own eyes from her food to meet Break's. And as much as she suspected, he did have his gaze on her. Dropping her eating utensils in annoyance, she leaned back on her chair and crossed her arms, huffing.

"What are you looking at, clown?"

There was a minute of silence as Alice tried to stare him down. But the smile on his face, along with him licking his lips somehow terrified her. The man was creepy! Alice shivered subtly. For some reason, she felt as if she was a rabbit (pun intended) under the stare of a predator. It was a feeling she didnt like. Realizing this, Alice herself lowered her eyes from Break's and shook her head, as if shaking the thought of him off her head. Why didnt she notice before? She was slowly getting more and more uncomfortable around him. Well! Isnt that normal? Abnormal would be her getting comfortable around someone who kidnapped her. Grumbling under her breath due to her confusing thoughts, she grabbed her knife and fork once more and proceeded to finish her meal, all while ignoring Break.

A few minutes of silence from her and she finally finished her meal after several servings. Turning to Melanie, she flashed her a heartfelt smile and thanked her once more before standing from her seat. Only then did she turn to Break again, the smile she had for the nurse disappearing only to be replaced by an annoyed look.

"Im going out."

And with that, she left the kitchen to go wherever her feet may lead her. She had no plans on leaving the house itself, but she wanted to walk for a while. Wander around. She had no idea where she was, and she was sure she wasnt anywhere near Leverru, or Pandora for that matter. It was a stupid idea to even consider her being somewhere near Pandora, if Break would have it, she'll be far from everyone. Escaping and finding her way back to Oz and the rest was a current impossibility. Well, no use getting frustrated about it now. Maybe she can persuade Break to return somehow.. there must be some way. She cant imagine spending more time than necessary running away with Break. She had more important business to attend to. To gather her memories.. she would need Oz. Right? Or was that simply her wishing to be around him?

Hey, wait-- what the?

Her feet suddenly stopped on their own. Alice found herself in the garden, and wondered. Did she just excuse herself from Break earlier? Surprised by her own actions, she turned to look back the direction from where she came from. What was she thinking? Sighing, she willed herself to slump down on the ground, however, it was a wrong move from her to support her weight by putting her hands behind her. Forgetting the wound on her shoulder, the sudden pressure caused pain to strike at her shoulder. Hissing at the pain, she just allowed herself to fall and lay back on the grass. Squinting at the sun above her, she lifted her uninjured arm and reached up, covering the sun from her gaze and frowning.

"..I hate this."

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

With a sigh, Alice lowered her hand again, as if finally realizing that it didnt help much to cover the sun's glare with her hand, and raising it the way she did would just end up tiring her, either way.. the girl simply closed her eyes as she laid there in silence, just letting the sun shine down on her face. In fact, for a moment of silence, she mightve looked as if she's simply sleeping, until she started humming.

It was the same melody that played in the pocket watch that Oz found. She liked the melody, she somehow thought it had something to do with her memories, after all wasnt it the very thing that brought her to Oz? Surely it had to mean something.. but what? Taking advantage of her time alone, she allowed her mind to wander, far from thoughts of Break and her current situation and more about her. Her alone. Her memories. Or the lack of it.

Why are you looking for your memories..?

"Tch.. you again. Go away."

Hee. Tee hee-- hehehehe~

Why did she always enter her mind whenever she's alone? Her.. the Will of the Abyss. ..her twin. She gritted her teeth. She hated the very idea, of being associated with her, of being always connected to her no matter how hard she tried to ignore the so called connection. And then.. there's the other guy. The one who she always seem to see in her memories, yet his face.. why cant she see his face? Jack..

A sudden headache suddenly surged through her head, causing her to sit up quickly, her hands grasping the sides of her head. The Will, she was forcing her away from those thoughts, from Jack. Why? Why cant she remember?

Get away! Away! Away! Away!

"What--"

He-- he promised to bring me to his house! Jack! Jack! The roses!

"No.. stop.. enough--"

Why are you so mean *******?! He's not dead! He's not! Waaaaah~!

The pain in her head suddenly disappeared, after which she found herself crying as well. The Will was crying, the pain in her head seemed as if it transferred to her chest. Searing pain, too much despair and hurt. And.. the Will.. she mentioned a name, a name she didnt hear. She mentioned someone.. who? Ah.. so annoying. She needed to stop thinking too much, of forcing herself to remember. Wiping the tears from her eyes, Alice stood up, stumbling for a few before gathering her balance once more. Perhaps she just needed some more rest..

WHY DID YOU FORGET?!

Alice was just about to take one step forward when the sudden force of that statement caused her to freeze on spot. The presence of the Will was suddenly overwhelming that the very air around Alice seemed to take on similarities of the environment of the Abyss. Thick and Heavy. Uncomfortable. ..Digusting. No.. she knew that smell.

It was a Chain, not the same as the last one but a Chain nonetheless. Was the Will that bothered that she actually sent a Chain after her? Not bothering to call out for Break since she believed him to still be inside the house, Alice quickly made a run for the nearest wall and jumped over it. There was a Chain somewhere. She didnt doubt it one bit that this one was sent for her and it will undoubtedly chase after her. Well, she'll save that worthless piece of crap the trouble of looking for her.

Before she could rethink her steps, she found herself running to the direction of the Chain, somehow hoping that the coincidence of a Chain reappearing at that moment might provide her another glimpse of her missing memories.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

It was strange that she'd feel smug at realizing that the Chain had indeed been chasing after her, but smug is the last thing she should be feeling right now. She knew she had no strength, no power at all to fight against this Chain. What was she doing? Oz wasnt here, Gil wasnt here, even that clown wasnt. She was alone. Perhaps it was merely a set reaction. To provide a game of chase. What was she thinking? That this Chain would tire of chasing her? No way. Deciding she had enough of running, she skidded into a stop and turned on her heel to face the Chain. And was shocked. This was not the usual trump. This was something else.

"That hateful little---"

The comment was cut off as the "knight" pursued her. She was obviously at a disadvantage, just the difference in size made a huge difference. No doubt if that hellish mount charged through her, she'd be trampled to death on spot. Gritting her teeth, she jumped out of the way and slammed to the ground. It was almost too late for her when the horse's hooves suddenly appeared on top of her. With a last minute reaction, she rolled to the side in the exact time the hooves crashed centimeters beside her on the ground, leaving an ugly mark on the ground. No doubt she'd be dead by now if that caught her. At least her instincts were still left intact despite her powers being sealed. But she doubted instincts alone would save her at this particular encounter.

"Stupid rabbit."

Alice quickly scrambled back on her feet to jump away, to at least put some reasonable distance between her and the Chain when she heard him. What was he doing here? A guilty feeling of relief came over her once more, and she didnt like it. She was obviously being slowly dependent on the clown and she didnt like it. She wasnt a person who depended on others. Its not her.

"Look out--!!"

Just when did she come into his arms again, she didnt notice, but she was. Yet again, saved by him. However, this time, it would seem that Break had more sense than try and fight with her in his arms. Without her even telling him, he had put her down and as if he was her knight, stood before her and between her and the Chain. Stupid, what was he playing at? Her knight in shining armor? Not likely. By then Alice believed theyre better off running away. She doubted it would work but the chance of the Chain being annoyed and giving up though slim isnt exactly impossible. It was cowardly but she was all for running away.

With an outstretched arm, Alice was about to pull Break back and urge him to run, but her fingers grasped nothing but empty air. Horrified, she could only watch as Break tried to battle it out with the Chain. What is it with men and ego? He couldnt possibly defeat that thing! Her complain however was caught in her throat as she witnessed Break being flung away by the Chain. With a wide-eyed stare, she could only stand for a few seconds, watching Break crumple against the tree, seeing the blood trickle down his lips. It was terrible. Fear clutched her very being, not only for her sake, but for the both of them.

No... this cant-- I need to..

It cant be helped.

Who--? Alice turned around. She heard someone. Oz..? Hearing things? What..

Fight Alice. Protect yourself and your friend.

Alice no longer had time to react to the voice, she wasnt even sure whose voice it was. She couldve mistaken it for Oz but the voice though familiar is deeper.. calmer..

A surge of power burst from Alice's chest, and without realizing it, she had once more morphed into the infamous form of the Bloodstained Black Rabbit. It only took her a few seconds to wonder, but the thirst for blood along with rage fueled her quickly. Without much of a thought, only the reminder of fear for her life, chains had quickly trapped the horseman on spot, and with a yell of rage, Alice, labeled B-rabbit, the strongest chain in the Abyss, had sliced the attacking Chain.

"GO BACK TO THE ABYSS AND LAMENT YOUR WORTHLESS SAD-EXCUSE OF EXISTENCE!!"

Alice didnt stay to witness the horseman's descent back to the Abyss, she didnt hear the cry of agony, her murderous eyes were set on the crumpled man who kidnapped her and took her away from Oz. She was angry and that was all it mattered. With a malicious grin, the Chain lifted her scythe against Break and--

No, Alice.

"What--?!"

The nightmarish form of the black rabbit evaporated, leaving the usual human-form of Alice to slam back against the ground. Alice still felt the bubbling rage under her skin, but that was nothing compared to the pain that exploded in her head. The sudden release of her sealed powers and the just-as-sudden restraining of it left Alice in unspeakable pain, so much pain in fact that there was no space in her mind to remember or look back on what happened, or what she was planning to do, or how she was feeling. There wasnt enough space to think of words to say, or even to think of speaking. As Alice fell to the ground on her knees, the girl curled up tightly, her hands grasping the sides of her head as a ear-splitting scream of pain left her lips.

"AAAAAAAHHHH!!!!"

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Pain, there was so much pain. Pain and power, she could feel it burning under her skin. Bubbling under the surface. It was there but at the same time, it wasnt there. She could feel it, but couldnt touch it, couldnt reach it, couldnt extinguish it. Screams continued to pour from her lips, agonized cries.

Alice almost didnt notice when Break appeared at her side. She was barely aware of him touching her arm. In fact, she doubted she'd be able to distinguish whether he was simply touching her or shaking her. In comparison to the burning feeling under her skin, Break's touch was almost nonexistent. She writhed against his touch, suddenly feeling restrained by a mere touch. She wanted free. She wanted her power back. Wanted-- wanted..

"Ah-- AAAHHH!!"

The girl tried to scratch at her arms, as if she wanted to peel her very skin off, as if peeling her skin would help lessen the fire burning under her skin. It was at that time that Break's voice broke into her mind. It was a faint sound, but it was there.

"It'll be okay Alice...Alice? If you can hear my voice...I just want you to listen to my voice...""

Alice...? Yes, that's my name. He's calling me.. Break?

Listen.. listen to him. Listen. The word kept on repeating on her head. She tried to listen, to focus, to try and make sense out of his words, to try and understand. It was so slow she almost didnt notice, but slowly, gradually, the pain started decreasing. Struggling to keep still, she concentrated more on his voice.

Oz..? Where is he.. Oz?

He kidnapped me! He sealed me!

He called me Alice.. Im Alice..

Youre not Alice.. Youre the Bloodstained Black Rabbit!

"Be strong.. it'll be alright."

"..al-- right?"

Alice opened her eyes again, sweating, gasping for breath as if waking up from a terrible nightmare, and in a way, the situation can be called that. She found herself gripping Break tightly, clinging on him as if her life depended on it. What was she doing? What did she just try to do? She tried to kill him.. didnt she? A part of her said it was horrible. On the other hand, however, the fact that for a short moment, her seal broke. She wanted to believe that the seal broke because of her own will, but she couldnt deny that she heard a voice. His voice. Jack. He broke her seal and returned it just like that. She was annoyed and curious at the same time. Just who was he to have that much power over her? And it wasnt the first time that it happened either.

Strong as these thoughts might be, Alice forced herself to return back to reality. The fact that she was still clinging to Break, the man who kidnapped her, who saved her, and the man who she just almost killed. Life was getting more and more bizarre.

"Break-- Pierrot?"

Unfocused eyes forced themselves to fix their gaze on the man before her, and a frown came on her lips. Why? She wasnt unhappy on seeing him. Not entirely. But she wasnt glad either. She was confused, yes. Or maybe the frown is just an automatic reaction to seeing the guy. But eitherway, slowly, Alice relinquished her hold on his coat and attempted to stand back up on her feet despite her staggering.