(Author's Note:)Yay! Thanks for taking the time to read this!

Prologue

In the year 4084 CE, a huge, glowing seafoam-green asteroid crashed into Karuizawa, Japan. Strangely, there was no cosmic impact. Fortunately, no one perished for as soon as the asteroid struck Earth, it instantly disintegrated into a fine seafoam-green dust that many believed to be a gift from the heavens. People hurried to get ahold of the "sacred" dust as a blessing, but as soon as they came into contact with the glittery substance, an abnormal ability possessed them. Those who had allowed the asteroid bits to lodge beneath their skin were infected with the power to levitate any object by controlling movements with their minds. This phenomenon soon deemed these former humans as LeviGenomic Humanoids. The dust was studied under a microscope and in it was a newly discovered element that was soon called the LeviGenome[Credit: Dr. Hirano Shiina].

32 year old Levitation Investigation Association [LIA] head scientist, Dr. Hirano Shiina, proposed the theory that the strange glowing rock had been a piece of the long sought-after floating kingdom, Levita, that had crumbled over time and had finally fallen to Earth. Dr. Shiina's theory seemed far-fetched but, not impossible because eighty years prior, Shuichiro Tachibana, a seasoned lawyer, claimed to have seen the fabled Levita floating in the sky on a glowing seafoam-green mass. LIA Research planes were sent to find the legendary kingdom and returned with nothing. Dr. Shiina insisted that Levita in fact did exist. No one believed him because no one was willing to act like a gullible fool just as they did when Tachibana made his claim again. They thought Dr. Shiina was equally as crazy as Tachibana.

Bent on proving that Levita and it's several District Areas in space were real, Dr. Shiina formed a cruel plan. He began performing experiments on the LeviGenomic Humanoids. Fatal ones. He defended his actions with the excuse that he tested them for any other abnormal "superhuman" abilities. Soon, he had killed so many that no one cared anymore. The LeviGnomic Humanoids were seen as tainted beings anyway. Freakshows unwanted in the world. Little did they know, that Dr. Shiina was not experimenting for a research purpose; he was purposely torturing them to death. He knew very well that a technologically advanced kingdom like Levita would have easy access to the happenings of other areas in the universe. He knew that eventually, royalty from Levita would mission to Earth to rescue the lasting LeviGenomic Humanoids, whom he specially kept hostage for this evil purpose.

His main goal is to capture a member of the Levitian Royal Family to collect information on Levita that he can publicly expose to regain his pride. Dr. Shiina wants Levitian Royalty to show the Earth the planets they rule so nobody would think him crazy anymore. And he does not care who he has to kill or betray in order to achieve this.

(Author's Note:)There you have it! The back story of my whole Levitation madness! PLEASE REVIEW!

2: Chapter 1: Immoral Genesis

Chapter 1: Immoral Genesis

[4087 CE, Central Levitian District Area}{Kingdom of Levita]

*Prince Katsu Fujo*

Had I known what future awaited me, I never would have allowed her to push that button...that stupid little green button that would be the ultimate game changer for both of us and the many others we would encounter...

"Crap. Yuuka, number 2,000,087 is deceased," I clenched my fists and waited anxiously for Yuuka's reply. What am I to do?! If the number of LeviGenomic Humanoids increase by three, as the prince of Levita, I am obligated to go to Earth and take action.

"Not to worry, your highness. Should it come to it that you must go to Earth and stop this nonsense, I will be right by your side. It is looking fairly grim for our brethren, it certainly won't be long until 2,000,090 perishes along with the rest."

I did not like thinking of the possibility but, it was clear there was no avoiding my duty. Yuuka merely chewed her lip while staring at the monitor with a blank expression. With a sigh, I leaned back against my chair and I too, watched the boring little computer screen, waiting for the next alert of a death. Why is Dr. Shiina doing this to my people? It's as if he is provoking me, watching for my reaction so that he can have a good laugh. No, that can't be it...there is more to his ridiculousness, but, what? Before I could analyze this thought any further, the tell-tale "Bzzt. Bzzt. Bzzt." of the software alert recorded the death of numbers 2,000,088, and 2,000,089. I gripped the armrests of my chair until my knuckles turned white and my fingers began to tingle. Great. One more death and I will have to prepare for a mission to Earth. Exactly what I hoped to AVOID. Splendid. I have lived my whole life, holed up in this huge palace as a groomed and sophisticated young prince. How is one such as myself supposed to know how to handle this type of crisis?

"Ladies and gentlemen, please show your respect for my son, Prince Katsu Fujo of Levita," Father's voice continues to echo within my memory from my Coronation Day. I remember the pleased smiles and whispers when I, only at the mere age of seven, trotted onto the floating pedestal in the middle of the throne room.

Father's voice boomed once more as he said, "Now, to prove he is worthy of the throne in my place when the time comes, he will proceed to levitate the Sacred LeviGenome Crystal with his mind. Those who do not recall the significance of this practice, please allow me to explain before he begins. The tiny little glowing, green crystal you see hanging above the grand entrance is the original LeviGenomic specimen from the planet U-637;L. That little piece of polished rock was the core of a LeviGenomic asteroid. Long ago, it became dust instead of creating a cosmic impact when it landed, leaving behind the tiny core. The dust seeped into the Earth and the land began to levitate upward, carrying the LeviGenomic infected humanoids with it. These humanoids, the ancestors of our ancestors, established what we presently know as the Central Levitian District Area of the Kingdom of Levita! It became a tradition for a royal successor to levitate the precious core, for, not every LeviGenomic humanoid can do it. One must possess the courage, bravery, and strength in order to be able to levitate such an item. If the Sacred LeviGenome Crystal accepts your personality, it will allow you to hold it in your hands and be crowned! This, my good people, is why Levita has expanded to so many other universes and planets; growing our empire and making our history so great!"

The audience cheered with applause while I fidgeted with excitement. Having heard him practice this speech on Levita's history several times before, I was more elated than ever to be at the real thing.

"And now," father continued, "I will have Prince Katsu complete his task." He then looked at me with an expectant smile on his wise face. I smiled back and focused my attention on the crystal. With every fiber within me strained with concentration, I saw the tiny stone begin to quiver. Then, with a cheerful jolt, it began floating from across the room towards my outstretched hand. Delighted gasps and cries filled the room when the seafoam-green crystal settled into my gloved palm. That was it. I held up my right hand grasping the Sacred LeviGenome Crystal and did a little victory jump. Instantly, the people of the kingdom roared and I remember looking at my parents for approval. My mother, Queen Mizuki Fujo of Levita, was beaming with pride and her dark brown eyes sparkled. My father, King Takashi Fujo of Levita, wore a broad smile and he looked as if he were saying, "I couldn't have done it better myself."

Shouting above the cheers, father thundered, "I, King Takashi Fujo of Levita, pronounce my son: Crowned Prince Katsu Fujo of Levita!"

I was so happy and naive that day, cloaked in my proper royalty wear without a care in the world. Oblivious to the real dangers and responsibilities that came with being a prince. A stupid child that took a carefree life for granted. That is all I ever really was. And now, look at me. Seventeen-years-old, completely lacking in life experience, overwhelmed and upset with the given duty I was born with. Ah, great. Only a matter of time before the final death alert sounds and I'm off!

"Your highness, unclench your fists. They have turned an unnatural shade of purple. It concerns me," Yuuka's voice jolted me out of my thoughtful daze. I suppose now is really not a very good time for flashbacks. After flexing my fingers to regain circulation, I started to tap my foot while nervously watching the computer screen as it surveyed the actions of LIA on Earth. The annoying click of my black leather shoe upon the polished marble tiles unnerved me even more, but, I could not bring myself to stop. I had far worse things to worry about. Dead silence except for, "Click! CLick! Click!" filled the air as tension built. The death of number 2,000,090 was inevitable.

"Katsu, it'll be fine," Yuuka's soft, yet confident voice whispered behind me, causing me to turn around in surprise. Her thin lips met mine as soon as I faced her and instantly, her close proximity calmed me.

Ah, yes. Yuuka Hosoda, Captain of the Levitain Royal Guard, my childhood friend, first love, and the only girl that would ever be able to wash away all the pain and hardships of life. She came from a poor merchant's family. Left on the streets because she was an extra mouth they refused to feed. Being the kind people they are, my mother and father took her in and allowed to stay with us in the palace. When she had gained her strength back, she found a new interest and talent as a swordswoman and became quite spectacular with a loaded trigger. She insisted that she became my personal protector in exchange for her staying at the palace. More than anything, she hoped to be respected and treated as any other palace guard. She no longer needed the nurturing comfort my parents offered, so they complied and began giving her strict orders as they would anybody else. She soon constantly followed me wherever I went with a loaded rifle and a double-edged katana at her side. She took her job very seriously, but, I was lonely. I wanted a friend my age so naturally, I opened up to her and she did the same to me. By nature, she was always gentle and kind. She was, and still is, the kind of person that can reduce stress levels by just being in the same room. That's probably why I loved her so much. She had become very precious to me. My best friend.

I closed my eyes and laced my fingers through her silky, golden-blond hair, the rest of the world melting away. The windowless confinement of the monitoring system room, the basic cream-colored walls, the glowing computers, all of it disappeared. It was just me and my bodyguard. Funny how our relationship works. Isn't it usually supposed to be the guy who plays the masculine, reassuring role? I suppose not in my world. Yuuka's hand cupped my cheek and I could feel the cold surface of her ring against my face. That's right. She still wears the platinum promise ring I had given her a year ago.

Involuntarily, my thumb rubbed the smooth metal band identical to hers that adorned my own finger as I mentally went back to that warm summer evening in the apple orchard.

I remember pulling her wrist along with me to our secret tree hidden behind a willow. The moon was in its crescent phase, but, it still lit the way along with the billions of twinkling stars. A breeze ruffled through the grass and the flowers of the garden, hinting the air with the pleasant smell of roses, lilies, and lavender. When we reached the little clearing where we always hid and played in as children, I knelt before her and produced a small velvet box from my pocket. Her expression of delight and surprise as I opened the box and revealed a silvery platinum ring will forever be imprinted in my mind and in my heart.

Sliding it onto her extended finger, I spoke in a low voice, "Yuuka, I love you more than anything and it would make me incredibly happy if you would promise to stay mine until we can be married at another time and another place. I shall promise the same to you."

She laughed and nodded, clearly at a loss for words. She attacked me with a hug and pressed her face to mine, our lips meeting in the blissful moment. Cliche? Most definitely. But, important to both of us just the same.

"Bzzt. Bzzt. Bzzt."

At the sound of the alert, Yuuka pulled away. Back to reality. Number 2,000,090 has been killed. I need to begin my preparations for a mission to Earth. I can not afford to allow any more of my people be heartlessly tormented to death. With silent agreement, we both stood and made our way to the throne room where my mother and father were most likely watching over the kingdom's hologrammed security footages. We would need to let them know of the deaths and gain permission to access equipment.

"Your majesties, number 2,000,090 has perished along with everyone before him," Yuuka prompted, "It is time for us to descend and bring any surviving hostages safely back here and destroy LIA. If you will allow it, I shall accompany your son on the mission as his protector."

My father turned his attention away from the hologrammed screen and nodded, "Yes. Of course, Yuuka. Program your Reinforcement W-CL to alert Princess Karin Schneizer of Levitian District Area 16. Should you die on your mission, she will take your place as my son's protector. I expect you to be ready at all times to use your own life to protect his."

Yuuka bowed with agreement and replied, "Of course, your majesty," before pressing a few buttons on her watch to program the alert. "Your majesty, if I may have your permission to do so, I shall kill anyone who gets in our way. No matter how innocent they may be."

Father nodded consent, "Yes. Do whatever you need to do to complete this mission and keep my son alive, please."

"Consider it done, sir."

"Wonderful. Now, Ms. Hosoda, you are permitted to leave and prepare. Katsu, your mother and I would like to have a word with you before you must depart."

Yuuka gave a curt nod and walked briskly out of the seafoam-green throne room, her gold locks of hair behind her like a cape. The grotesquely large, mahogany double-doors closed with a resounding a thud as I turned to face my parents. For a long moment, there was only silence. I took in the sight of mother, slender and lengthy, fair, and fragile. Her jet black hair was just like mine and her pale skin tone equivalent to a full moon matching my own. We were tall and built with lean muscle. Her dark brown eyes were brimming with tears. I did not want to see her cry. Otherwise, I would begin to shed tears as well. There was no way I could allow myself to look so vulnerable and weak. Instead, I tore my gaze from my mother and switched focus to my father who stood tall and strong with his hands clasped behind his back. His head tilted in such a way that light reflected off of his blond hair, creating a regal halo. We shared the same shocking ice-blue eyes that always seemed cold and distant, but possessed warmth and kindness at the same time. He too, looked as if he were about to break down. Without a word, mother leapt from her throne and hugged me close like I was her lifeline.

"Katsu, you go and make sure you stay alive, alright? Please, don't make your father and I regret sending you to save our people," she sobbed and her embrace tightened.

"I won't, mother."

She released me and sat back down, folding her hands in her lap. Father set his hands onto my shoulders and looked me in the eyes with a sad smile.

"Do me proud. I know you can. We named you "Katsu," for a reason. It means "victorious one," so, I expect you to step up to that name."

"I will, father."

"As the king of Levita, I want you to do everything you can to complete your mission and save our people. As your father, I suggest you quit wearing such tight, emo-teenager clothes. And don't mess around with girls, you hear me?"

I could not help but give a slight laugh. My father was always ready to be humorous in any situation. "Yes, father."

"Well then, good luck my boy."

"Thank you." I gave a salute and made my way towards the exit when my mother's voice halted my movements.

"WAIT! One more thing!" Her hurried footsteps pitter-pattered across the marble floor along with the swish of her purple gown. She stopped in front of me and held out a small, wallet-sized picture. It was the photo we took together on my Coronation Day.

"It is for you to remind yourself of who you are and how important it is to everyone that you come home safely."

I took the photo and stuck it into my jacket pocket with a smile. "Thank you, I will keep it safe."

"Goodness, stop it with the black leather jackets! Your mother does not approve!" She shook her head and smirked.

I shrugged and rolled my eyes, and she laughed. As I turned to leave again, she grabbed my shoulder.

"And do not forget to continue writing music. You know very well how much Yuuka loves your voice," she paused and then whispered, "Keep her safe." With that, she kissed my cheek and waved goodbye before the doors closed behind me.

I met with Yuuka in the launch control room after having packed what I needed into the missionary pod, MP:CL;6-72. Yuuka intently sharpened her knives and loaded her guns. I stared at her for a moment, taking in her swift, graceful movements. Such a brave, beautiful young woman standing by my side made me feel luckier than anyone. And I wanted to keep her. Soundlessly, I strode up from behind her and circled my arms around her waist, pulling her against me in a gentle embrace. She tensed, but eased back after putting her hands over mine. We stayed that way, our hearts' rhythms synced as one.

I lowered my head to her ear and whispered, "I will not let you die. We will both return safely and be married. I promise."

She choked back a sob and nodded before twisting around to touch her lips to mine. She pulled away and locked her gaze with mine for only a fleeting minute. Then, she kissed me again, with more urgency.

"Your highness...uh, I mean, Katsu?"

"Yes?"

"Before we leave, will you please sing for me? The song that you were playing on the piano the other day...OH! I'm sorry! I wasn't spying on you, your highness! I just happened to walk by the entertainment hall...that's all," Her face turned red and she stared at her feet, "Uh...you know what? Never mind...we have a mission to complete. Please excuse my irrelevance."

I smiled and used my index finger to tilt her chin upward and kissed her once more. "So this is Yuuka Hosoda's 'girly side'? Funny,"I teased, "I never would have thought you had one."

"Shut up."

"Not going to happen! I'm the prince, you're my loyal servant."

"That's not fair."

"Tch! Yes it is. You volunteered to be my protector."

"..."

I chuckled softly and sighed, "Fine. I'll sing." At this, she brightened and her big, turquoise eyes crinkled with joy.

I never want to forget these feelings.

For the emotions you give me are too precious

to lose...

Never again will I ever forgive those who make you cry,

because your smiling eyes are brighter without tears.

Come. Relax in my open arms.

I will always be right here.

But right now, there is something we must do.

And we shall do it together.

The world has lost its humanity,

and the beginning of a horrid future is dawning.

Its the Immoral Genesis...

I will protect you, I swear it...

And one day, we'll be free to love again…

"Katsu...your voice is wonderful. The music, the lyrics, it's all beautiful. I wish I could hear you sing for eternity."

"Thank you. You do realize I wrote that for you, right?"

"Of course I did."

"Well, on that note, we had better get going."

"Right."

Yuuka hurried over to the system controller and set our countdown until mission commencing. The screen blinked, 10...9...8… while we secured ourselves into MP:CL;6-72. 3...2...1...0. The green release button glowed and Yuuka gave a thumbs-up.

"Ready?"

"Ready."

"CLICK!"

Chapter 1: Immoral Genesis/END

PLEASE REVIEW! Tell me your thoughts!

3: Chapter 2: Keep your Friends Close, and your Enemies Closer

Chapter 2: Keep Your Friends Close, and Your Enemies Closer

[4087 CE, Karuizawa, Japan} {Earth]

*Misaki Kuroyami*

"He has finally come. Misaki, he has enrolled into your school."

"Then, that makes everything easier for me. Any other details?"

"He has Yuuka Hosoda with him."

"Who's she?"

"Captain of the Levitian Royal Guard. She's going to be a bit of a problem. Before you make any other move to get closer to him, I want you to get her out of the way."

"Yes, father."

*Prince Katsu Fujo*

"Here we are. Are you okay, your highness?" Yuuka staggered out of MP:CL;6-72 but, still managed to hold out her hand and help me up.

"I'm fine. Thank you. What about you?"

"I've been better. A little dizzy though."

I pressed the "Display" button on my watch and an 11x8 inch hologrammed screen popped up in front of me. Slipping on my reading glasses, I selected the "Map" option and studied the locations of our destinations. Okay...it looks like the closest Hover Transportation station is only a few meters south from where we are...so...if we get there, we can travel to Karuizawa Academy. Right. I minimized the screen and turned to Yuuka, who was examining a cornstalk.

"Yuuka,"

She looked up and widened her eyes to show she was listening.

"There's a Hover Transportation station 6 meters south from our current location. We can take it to Karuizawa Academy in the Central Division. Sound like a plan?"

Yuuka directed her attention back to the strange looking corn and nodded, "Sure. But, Why must we go to an academy? Can we not just go to a hotel?"

I sighed and patiently replied, "Yuuka. We're seventeen. It will look suspicious if we go about freely while everyone else our age goes to school. If we want to have a chance at staying discreet, I suggest we try to blend in as much as possible."

"Alright. That makes sense. Let's go." Yuuka shrugged and dropped the corn onto the ground and began walking south. I eyed the corn and picked it up, studying it as she had done. Huh...that's peculiar...this corn is somewhat unnatural. Almost like a camera? Hm, no use worrying about it, I suppose.

The Hover Transportation (H.T.) station ended up being a little gray rectangle no bigger than an average walk-in closet. Inside, there was a touch-screen control board that I programmed to take us to the Karuizawa Academy in the Central Division. While we waited for the information to process and register the H.T., I calculated how long it would take for us arrive. Well, right now, we are in the Agricultural Division which is about 70 miles from the Central Division, so…it will probably take around 10 minutes to get there. Perfect. That will leave us with more than enough time to enroll into the academy and plan our next move.

"Katsu,"

"Yes?"

"The H.T. is here," Yuuka pointed to the gray, train-like structure hovering a few inches above the ground.

"Right. Let's go," I stepped on with Yuuka right behind me. The sliding doors closed and the H.T. jerked forward.

"Crud!" Yuuka exclaimed and fell along with the sudden movement, crashing face-first into my back.

"Hey?!" I span around and attempted to catch her but only succeeded in tumbling to the floor with her. I lay there, my left elbow aching slightly.

"Are you alright, Yuuka?"

"Yes," she stood and ran her hand over her hair, "Thank you for breaking my fall." I nodded and then turned my attention to the blur passing by the windows as we sped along.

Soon, the H.T. slowed to a stop and the doors slid open revealing a large yellowish building with a silver plaque that stated, "Karuizawa Academy." A huge crowd of students our age were scattered around the school, filling out what looked like the enrollment forms. Excellent. We can blend in easily with all the other new students.

A shrill, ear-piercing screech came from the PA system before a woman's voice began talking. "Attention new students! Please fill out the enrollment forms handed to you in the main lobby and place it in the box! Then, you may begin trying to find someone who is willing to room with you in the campus apartments! Karuizawa Academy is elite and famous for having respectful, intelligent, and sophisticated students! If you must room with a member of the opposite gender, we trust that you will not be irresponsible. Please remember that Orientation is tonight at 5:00 PM and classes start tomorrow! Thank you!" Yuuka and I filled out the forms and placed them into the box. We had to discuss the apartment situation.

"Yuuka, I think it would be best if we roomed with other people. It might look a little strange how we whisper to each other. It will be even more suspicious if we room together. One could easily assume we are up to something no good."

"I was going to say the same thing. Plus, it would help if we seemed like friendly people. That way, we can gain friends to gain trust from others."

"We can meet as much as we can during lunch and we can communicate through our watches. But for now, we need to split."

Yuuka nodded in agreement and said, "Couldn't have made a better plan myself, your highness."

We turned around, preparing to go separate ways when a rather optimistic-sounding voice shouted, "Hey!"

Both Yuuka and I span around and saw a tall girl with cheerful seafoam-green eyes. Her hair was a shockingly bright red. She threw her hand high into the air and gave a wave with a beaming smile. Is she talking to us…?

"Yeah, I'm talking to you two! Don't give me such a confused look! I've never seen you guys around here before. I figured you might need more help than others. My name's Kanade. Kanade Akaihana. Nice to meet you!" She giggled and stuck out her hand. Yuuka eyed her with caution before shaking it. I did the same.

"A pleasure to meet you, Miss Akaihana. I am Katsu Fujo, and this," I gestured to Yuuka, "is Yuuka Hosoda. She is my girlfriend."

"Pleasure to make your acquaintance," Yuuka mumbled.

Kanade flashed another grin and clasped her hands together. "I'm in the college division, so, if you would like, you're welcome to stay at my place! I have three extra bedrooms! I can help you two around and stuff like that! Whaddya say?!"

Yuuka bowed and replied, "It would assist us a great deal. We shall gratefully accept your offer."

"Great! Come on!" She began weaving her way through the throngs of students back to the H.T. station. "My apartment isn't on this campus. It's 3 miles from here at the Kaibara Apartments. It'll only take a few seconds!"

"Miss Akaihana," I asked, "if your living space is an apartment, how is it that you have three extra rooms?"

"Oh, I know it's strange, but, I live in the penthouse."

"PENTHOUSE?!"

"Yes. My family owns the entire Vacation and Ocean Division. Tourists always bring in a lot of money for us. I came here on a full scholarship, so, I used what would have been my college money to move out of my family's house," she paused and programmed the touch-screen control board and then continued speaking, "I got lonely all by myself in such a big living area, so, I'm really happy you two are joining me!" The H.T. registered and arrived. We hopped on and zipped into the city. Kanade then lead us to an immense glass building with silver letters that read, "Kaibara Luxury Apartments" in elegant script above the doors. As we rose upward in the elevator, I contemplated our current situation. Staying with this girl is merely a convenience. She can not be completely trusted quite yet, but, she seems harmless. If necessary, Yuuka can easily behead her with a swipe of her again, she also may prove useful later.

The elevator halted softly and the doors slid open. Stepping out, Kanade pulled out her keys and went straight for the only apartment entrance available marked, "Penthouse". When the lights flicked on, my jaw could have literally touched the floor. This place is gorgeous! Yuuka was gawking as well. All the walls were a pristine white and each door handle had a shiny gold finish. The living room contained a smooth black leather couch and a 90 inch plasma screen television. Across the mahogany-floored hallway was a dainty little diningroom, complete with a modern rain drop chandelier, that was connected to a kitchen with polished granite tiles. Kanade set her purse on the marble counter and faced us with her arms spread open.

"Well, here we are! Welcome to my apartment!" She grinned and added, "You can go ahead and choose your bedrooms...unless you'd like to room together! Ha! Just kidding! Make yourselves at home!" Then, she went to the fridge and rummaged around leaving Yuuka and I as if we had been over a million times before. Yuuka shrugged and grabbed my hand, pulling me back through the hallway and towards the opposite side of the apartment where five doors were neatly lined up. The door farthest to the left had a glittery red butterfly design on it and the door in the center had a silver doorknob instead of a gold door handle. Yuuka approached the room in between the center door and the red butterfly one. Once I stepped inside, I instantly felt comfortable. This room was painted an icy blue like my eyes with white trim. A single-sized bed covered with ice-blue sheets was adjacent to the sliding glass door which lead to a balcony. Next to it, was a small mahogany nightstand with a crystal lamp. Tucked in the corner to the left of the door was a keyboard piano, a black stool, a stack of manuscript books, a stainless steel music stand, and a black electric guitar wired to an amp beside it. There were two doors on the opposite wall. One was slightly opened and revealed a closet. The other lead to a master bathroom completely tiled with polished ivory.

"Judging from your facial expression, your highness, I believe you should take this room."

"Y-yes. I would like that very much."

"Very well. I shall go select another room. I will see you at dinner." She pivoted on her heel and started to step out of the room. Without thinking, I reached out and grabbed her forearm.

"Yuuka…"

She turned around and looked at me with surprise, "Yes, your highness? Is something wrong?" My heart ached when she addressed me formally. It hurt to think that she was still nothing but my loyal servant. She didn't truly understand how much more she was to me. I swallowed and pulled her into me. In response, she wrapped her arms around me and sighed, "You know, Katsu, if you wanted me to be less formal with you, you could've just asked. I would do anything for you," she rested her head on my chest, "I would even risk my life for you."

I held her tight and nodded; half with relief, half with amazement at how well she could my mind. Wow...it's almost like our brains are synced. Amazing. "I love you. I wish you hadn't come with me, because I don't want you to have to constantly think about when you might die in my place. I would rather be lonely and make sure you're alive. Address me informally from now on. You're more than just a guard to me."

"As you wish, your highness. I love you, Katsu."

"One more thing,"

"Yes?"

"Choose your room, but stay with me tonight. Just for tonight is all that I ask."

"Of course, Katsu, as long as you don't mind letting me have the bed and you can go ahead and cozy up on the floor!" she laughed.

That night, after a rather nice ginger chicken dinner, I stood out on the balcony and watched the H.T.s and hybrid cars zip along the streets. The city twinkled with lights and the sounds of honking cars whirring past each other below faded out. Beyond the bustling glimmers were the peaceful plains of the Agriculture Division. The ocean in the Vacation and Ocean Division was like a dark blue, velvet blanket rippling in rhythmic waves. It was a cool, moonless night, but, the billions of stars continued to sparkle. This balcony definitely has a nice view. I can see everything in Karuizawa from here. Funny how the rooms of this penthouse are separate but they all share the same balcony that circles the entire apartment.

The door to my left behind me slid open and shut and the distinct swish of a satin nightgown announced Kanade's presence. "Great view, huh?"

"Yes. It's beautiful. Thank you so much for allowing us to stay here. You needn't worry, we will go back home soon."

"Oh, I wasn't worrying. I actually hoped you two would stay for a little while."

I still didn't look at her and leaned against the railing, thinking about how long it may take to complete the mission.

"You know, it gets lonely, all by myself in this big apartment. When you guys agreed to stay, I was so happy. Just because I'm rich and crap like that, people tend to shut me out, thinking I'm from another planet," she sighed, "I can tell you and your girlfriend are different though. Just by how you present yourselves, there's something about you that makes me really want to be your friend. I hope you can see me as a friend, too."

I remained silent and kept watching the ocean swell and deflate. I couldn't answer. She seemed like an innocent girl, but, I couldn't know for sure. She could very much be an enemy extremely good at acting. The best I could do was reply, "I'm sure that isn't true. You seem like a good person. I doubt you would be completely friendless." I finally turned around and faced her. She had her hands clasped in front of her and she was staring at her bare feet. A slight sakura-scented breeze flew in and shifted her blood red hair. Her pink satin nightgown billowed around her ankles. She looked up at me and smiled, her bright seafoam-green eyes were gentle and kind.

"Thank you. That's the first time a new friend has ever said that to me," she brushed her fingers through her hair, "Well, classes start tomorrow. I'm good friends with the Student Council president and vice president, so, you guys are all set," she paused and yawned, "Goodnight, Katsu."

"Goodnight. Thanks again, Kanade."

She slipped back into her room and the lights went out. I suddenly felt drained so, I went back to my room to retire as well. The gleaming black and white of the keyboard piano's keys caught my eye. I couldn't resist. I planted myself on the stool and began to play. It was like all of my emotions flew out through my fingers as they glided across the keys, allowing the melody that I wrote for Yuuka to resound in my head. Calm and content, I slumped onto the bed when the door opened and closed softly. I blinked awake again and saw Yuuka leaning against the door jamb, swathed in a yellow evening gown. Her arms were crossed beneath her chest and her turquoise eyes met mine.

"Good evening. I can tell you are exhausted. Did I intrude?"

"No. No, not at all. In fact, I apologize. I forgot that I was sleeping on the floor," I made a move to get out of the bed but she walked over and placed her hand on my shoulder.

"It's fine. I was joking. Move over," she froze and added, "Please?"

"Ha! I thought you almost forgot your manners there."

"Don't say another word or else you really will sleep on the floor. Without sheets."

"Sorry," I moved over onto my side and she lay next to me. Her soft blond locks smelled like coconut shampoo. I wrapped my arms around her waist and closed my eyes.

I felt her warm lips on mine and I heard her whisper, "Goodnight, Katsu," before I drifted off to a dreamless sleep.

*Misaki Kuroyami*

That night, I sat with father at the dinner table and sipped from a cup of jasmine tea, "Father. I saw him enroll with Ms. Hosoda today. They ended up moving in with Kanade Akaihana."

Father nodded slowly and replied, "Wonderful. It seems Lady Luck is with us, for, Kanade is a friend of your's, am I wrong?"

"No sir. You are correct."

"Splendid. You should have no problem getting closer to them now."

"Indeed," I drained the last of the tea and stood, "I shall retire for tonight. I am assuming that I will be introduced to them tomorrow at school when the Student Council president and vice president give them a tour of the academy and the clubs. For now, I bid you goodnight, Father."

"Yes. Goodnight, Misaki."

*Prince Katsu Fujo*

The next morning, we took the H.T. back to the academy and Kanade introduced us to identical twins. They were the same height, had the same chestnut brown hair and eyes, and they had matching iron-rimmed glasses.

Kanade beamed and gestured to the girl, "Katsu, Yuuka, this is the Student Council president, Hiroko Nishimura," then she gestured to the boy, "And this is her twin and the Student Council vice president, Naoto Nishimura. Both of them are very good friends of mine. They'll take care of you. I need to hurry back to the college section of this academy. See ya later!" She waved and jogged back through the halls.

Hiroko and Naoto smiled at us and greeted, "Good morning! Welcome to Karuizawa Academy. We'll show you around the school and then introduce you to the extra curricular clubs you can join!" They soon led us through the high school section, giving us a tour of each room. Then, we came to the last rooms. Naoto spoke first, "And finally, here are the clubrooms. You have a variety of choices, so, we'll give you a summary of each one." Naoto and Hiroko led us down the hallway and we first came across the clubroom that was lit only by red candles. In the dim light, students cloaked in black were hunched over ancient-looking books. A gorgeous girl in a black lace-hemmed dress that dragged behind her stood and walked up to us. Her skin was pure and pale, it made her long black hair look evil in comparison. Her lips had black lipstick, her nails were painted black, and her eyes were lined with black, too. Her eyes on the other hand, were a brilliant emerald. She smiled and spoke in a smooth voice, "Hello. Welcome. I am the president of the Occult Studies club. My name is Misaki Kuroyami."

Yuuka seemed to immediately take to this girl. She shook Misaki's hand and replied with a smile, "I am Yuuka Hosoda. And this," she looked in my direction and continued, "is my boyfriend, Katsu Fujo. I would be delighted to take part in this club."

Misaki chuckled, "My, you seem enthusiastic. I did not think you would be interested in the occult. Well, in any event, I will see to it that you have a good time with us."

We left the room and moved on to the Chess club and Yuuka was rambling with excitement.

"Wow! An Occult Studies club! Katsu, I have always wanted to study the occult! Not that I would want to practice it though, goodness no. But, I always thought it would be interesting to look into just in case I came face-to-face with a criminal that tried to curse me. And, that Misaki girl seems really nice! Katsu, can I join?"

I blinked in shock. I don't think Yuuka has the same unshakable suspicion I have for Misaki. Misaki seems...I can't quite place it...she's not threatening...but, she just seems evil. Or, maybe it's just all the black she's wearing?

"Uh...sure, Yuuka. You can join."

"Thank you!" Yuuka jumped with glee right when the twins turned around and grinned, "We'll see you at lunch!"

We separated and went to our classes. Everyone else was cheerful but, I was still worried about what Yuuka might be getting herself into. That Misaki is very strange…

*Misaki Kuroyami*

When Katsu and Yuuka left my club, I wanted to burst out with laughter. What a foolish girl, that Yuuka Hosoda. The Captain of the Levitian Royal Guard has played right into my hands. She made it clear that she wanted to become a friend of mine. Perfect. She is the real enemy in my plan. I need to get her out of the way in order to get closer to the prince. If she becomes my "best friend," it shouldn't be a problem. After all, one must keep their friends close, but their enemies ,closer…

Chapter 2: Keep Your Friends Close, and Your Enemies Closer/END

PLEASE REVIEW! Tell me your thoughts!

4: Chapter 3: First Love, First Killed

Chapter 3: First Love, First Killed

[4087 CE, Karuizawa, Japan} {Earth-3 months after arrival]

*Misaki Kuroyami*

It has been approximately three months since Crowned Prince Fujo of Levita has arrived with Captain of the Levitian Royal Guard, Yuuka Hosoda. From what I understand, Yuuka sees me as a close enough friend that she will be confident in almost every word I say. I believe I have successfully cultivated her trust in me enough that it is finally the day that I must do away with her. Such a shame, how short life is for some people.

*Prince Katsu Fujo*

In the three months of school on Earth, Yuuka and I have become considerably close to Kanade, the Nishimura twins, and surprisingly, Misaki Kuroyami. She turned out to be a very kind and quiet person. I no longer feel that there is any reason to have suspicion for her. She is quite the well-known internet idol, modelling gothic clothing styles she designs on her own. The Nishimura twins are the most reliable and honest people I have ever met, though, one thing I find slightly uncomfortable dealing with is the fact that they incest. Twincest, for that matter. There really isn't any way around the affection they openly show for each other. At any rate, their intentions are pure and they are friendly as far as I can tell. Kanade has always been kind-hearted and gentle. Ever the optimist is exactly how one could describe her. At least I know that I am surrounded by good people. It puts me at ease knowing that I have a chance at keeping my promise to Yuuka.

MY final class for the day ended. I exited the school and waited for the others to meet at our usual spot. We made it a little after-school ritual to bid one another goodbye until the next morning. A bright red-head popped out from the streams of students leaving the academy and she waved her hand vigorously in the air.

"Katsu! We're coming!" she sang. Behind her, Hiroko, Naoto, Yuuka, and Misaki followed. They each gave a wave and a smile. Yuuka sidled up next to me and grabbed my hand. I gave her a quick kiss as a silent greeting before the others caught up.

As they walked, Kanade complained to Hiroko, groaning with over-the-top drama, "Ugh...I just finished taking the WORST English exam! Honestly, I seriously don't think I will be travelling to England or America any time soon! I don't see why I need to learn something soooo hard! Speaking japanese is working fine for me!"

In response, Hiroko rolled her eyes, "Kanade, tell me again how on Earth you got a full scholarship AND you're a valedictorian! Ditzy whiner like you should be be at the bottom with grades!" she laughed and gave Kanade a teasing punch in the shoulder.

Kanade ignored her remark and suggested, "Hey hey! The whole school gets the day off from homework today! What should we do?"

"Oh my, I do not think I will be able to join in the fun today," Misaki shook her head sadly, causing her straight black hair t ripple like disturbed water, "I have an Occult Studies club event to prepare for."

"Misaki, if you would allow it," Yuuka piped up, "I would be more than happy to assist you."

Misaki at first had a look of surprise, but, it turned into a grateful smile, "Thank you, Yuuka. If it does not hinder your schedule, you are welcome to accompany me home."

"Sounds like a plan," Yuuka faced me with a smile, "I will see you later, Katsu." She let go of my hand and jogged over to Misaki's side. They both waved goodbye and then began in the opposite direction.

"Aww...we can't do anything fun without them!" Kanade pouted and whined, "We'll have to wait for another time."

Naoto shrugged, "Alright then, Hiroko and I will head back to the dorms," he turned to walk in the direction of the campus apartments and Hiroko followed.

"Okay! Bye-bye then! See ya tomorrow!"

"Bye, Kanade. Goodbye, Katsu."

I nodded and waved, "Yeah. Bye."

He and Hiroko returned to the dorms hand in hand, leaving me with Kanade. I found her kneeling on the grass behind me with her back turned. I sat cross-legged next to her and peered over to see what she had in her hand. She was holding a small sparrow with it's left wing bent in an awkward and painfully unnatural position. She cooed comforting words to it softly and stroked it's tiny feathered head with utmost care.

"Shh...shh...don't chirp too loud, okay little bird? Save the energy you have left for healing." The bird stopped chirping as if it understood her and it snuggled into her palm. And then, she smiled. But, it wasn't her normal sunshiny happy smile. It was sad and tender. It was the kind of smile that someone gives not for selfish reasons, but to make someone else feel better. A smile someone gives when they are worried, but do not want to make the other person feel bad.

"Kanade?"

She turned to face me with surprise, "Yes?"

"Is it's wing broken?"

"Yeah...it looks like it hurts pretty bad."

"Do you want me to hold your bag so, you can bring it home and take care of it?"

Her eyes brightened and she beamed, "Yes! Please!," she looked back at the bird with soft eyes, "Thank you, Katsu."

I stood and helped her stand, then, I grabbed her bag and we walked to the H.T. station while she kept close watch over the sleeping sparrow. As we waited for the H.T. to register, we watched the sun slowly set, painting the sky and clouds orange, peach, and lavender. Each color dripped into the other like thinned watercolor. A sakura blossom-scented zephyr glided through, tossing my black hair, causing it to flip around my face. But, Kanade's hair took my breath away. I could have sworn that her head was on fire, the crimson flames licking the orange-blended sky. She must have sensed my gaping stare, because she turned around, her seafoam colored eyes were a bold contrast to the fiery sun behind her. The breeze changed direction and caused her hair to whip around her, engulfing her in flaming tendrils. I knew she was staring back, but, I could not bring myself to look away. It was as if Mother Nature was trying to make me realize what kind of person Kanade was. Fire represented her bright and glowing warmth and her eyes were the color of the calm, gentle oceans in Fiji. She blushed and looked back down at the sparrow cupped in her delicate white hands.

"Yeah, I know my hair looks fake. But, I swear, honest to God, I didn't dye it. I was just born with it...I don't even know who I inherited it from," she still did not meet my eyes while she busied herself with petting the injured sparrow.

Without a word, I walked up to her and lifted a strand of the blood-colored hair, bringing it to my lips with a smile, "I believe you. I believe you are naturally a beautiful person; inside and out."

Her pale face reddened above her nose and she mumbled, "Th-thanks…" before the H.T. finally arrived.

Later that evening, I sat in my room, the curtains were drawn back, allowing moonlight to flood watery shadows of silver onto the floor and walls. I sat at the keyboard piano, playing a soft, slow tune while the clanking of pans and metal ladles announced Kanade's bustling in the kitchen. She's only eighteen, a year older than I am, and yet, so independent. I let my mind drift off to the moment I had shared with her not long before when the banging of metal ceased. The sound of a lovely voice mimicking the melody I had been playing startled me. I whipped around and found Kanade humming while rummaging through my closet. She pulled out a small cardboard box and placed the sparrow inside. I cleared my throat and she looked up with her eyes wide.

"OH! I'm so sorry! I was looking for a box to put this little guy in and I didn't want to interrupt you! I kind of snuck in and heard you play and I subconsciously sang along and...agh! I'm sorry, next time I'll knock! I just, I felt so sad, the bird looked so cold, shivering on the newspaper I put in the kitchen. Th-that wasn't right of me. Sorry…" she bit her lip and made a move to hurry out of the room, but I laughed.

"Ha! It's alright, I don't mind. You are welcome to sing along, your voice is lovely."

She grinned, "Really?! I would LOVE to!" she bounced up and down and hurried away to put the box back in the kitchen. She returned and said, "Dinner's almost ready anyway, so, I can pause for a break!" She peered over my shoulder to look at the manuscript that I had recorded and began to sing the notes. I immediately played the piano with her and harmonized my voice with hers. It was gorgeous. I could have sat with her be my side, allowing music to fill the apartment forever.

After keying the last note, there was a serene silence. Then, Kanade sighed, "Your voice is great, too! It's smooth and low. You're really talented! The tune is so pretty, I'm really glad you let me sing along!"

I opened my mouth to reply, but the phone rang. Kanade sprang up and said, "I'll get it!" and she ran out of the room.

Her voice carried through the halls as she answered it, "Hello? Yes, this Kanade! How may I help you?" but her voice gradually became quiet and lost it's cheerfulness as she continuously replied, "Uh huh. Yeah...Oh, okay...I-I'll tell him,"

"K-Katsu?! Y-you might want to come and answer the phone…"

I took the phone from her shaking fingers and spoke into the receiver, "Hello?"

On the other end, was Misaki's panicked voice, "K-Katsu! Something terrible has happened! Oh, it's a tragedy! Sh-she was walking to the H.T. and there was gunfire a-and...it's Yuuka!"

*Misaki Kuroyami*

As I walked to the campus apartments of the academy with Yuuka, I mentally went over my plan. It would be quick and easy. I had already set the silenced, remote controlled M16 in the bushes where she would take her route to the H.T. station. I had set it in the dead of the night, in all black with gloves to conceal any fingerprints for forensic evidence. It was tucked safely away from security cameras. I would go over the club activity plans with friendly nonchalance and proceed to keep the remote hidden.

As she stepped out of the dorms to take her leave for the night, I gave a jaunty wave and smile, "Have a wonderful night, Yuuka! I appreciate your much needed help!"

"No problem, anything for a good friend like you!" she grinned back and walked into the darkness of the night whilst I held the remote behind my back. When she reached the targeted spot, I pressed the button six times and heard the soft "whirr…" of the bullets as they flew.

Good, the silencer worked properly...now gunfire can not be detected…

The oblivious girl cried out in pain while I locked the remote back into its vault.

Hurrying out onto the crime scene with my cell phone in hand, I gasped, "Oh my goodness! Yuuka?!" I knelt by her and dialed the emergency number. After the paramedics confirmed that they would arrive soon, I dialed Kanade, warning her and Katsu of the "tragedy!" I could not wait to see how much father loved my flawlessness…

*Prince Katsu Fujo*

Yuuka! I can not believe I allowed myself to forget about her for even a second! When Misaki's end of the line clicked off, I froze. Then, in an instant, I was out the door, sprinting down the street. I wasn't going to wait for the H.T. I was going to run the whole three miles, even though I had never even run one, I did not care. There was only a single thought coursing through my brain, driving every muscle to go forward: Get to Yuuka.

Lifeless. That's all she was. Lifeless, unmoving, pale and bleeding on the ground. Her chest rose and fell with rapid breaths and her eyelids fluttered like she was fighting with all she could just to stay awake. I choked on a sob and fell to my knees beside her. Cupping my trembling hands beneath her neck, I brushed strands of blond from her pale, sweaty face and cradled her head in my lap, biting back tears. She took a sharp inhale and cracked her eyes open. They were usually a lively turquoise, but, now...they were dull and almost gray.

"K-Katsu...?" her voice was nothing but a hoarse whisper.

"Y-Yuuka...It's going to be alright. Th-the ambulance is on its way! Just...hang in there! Please..."

Yuuka gave a slow and pained shake of her head, "No need...I doubt I have much time..." she brought her hand to my cheek, which was streaming with hot tears. I grasped her hand and was horrified to find how cold and stiff it was.

"Listen...Katsu, I want you to know that you do not have to keep your promise to me anymore...alright?"

I shook my head and swallowed hard past the lump in my throat, "N-no...I have to keep it. It was a promise! I promised you, Yuuka. I can not break it by any means."

"Shh...I am telling you right now...do not bend yourself out of shape...you do not have to keep it...it's not a question..."

"Yuuka..."

"I am glad to have been of service to you...your highness..."

"Yuuka...please...you know you are more than that to me."

"I am glad to have been loved...by one so noble as you are. Your name...it means "victorious one..." Complete the mission with Princess Karin Schneizer...and live up to your name...you always did in my eyes..."

"She can not replace you!"

"Yes, she can...I was merely a girl on the streets that your parents pitied...I was never your equal...but you loved me with all your heart...and that is all I will ever need..." With her remaining strength, she craned her neck and gave me a final kiss before falling back into my lap.

"Will you please...sing...for me?"

There was no way I would waste time. I pulled the rest of her body into my arms and began to sing the song that I had been writing earlier. Rocking her back and forth and allowing my tears to fall on to her graying face, I took a breath and began:

Never again will I hold you in…

my arms anymore…

Never again will I be able to see your

smiling face…

You have left me alone on Earth…

And have gone to a better place…

I'll remember you…

eternally…

Sometimes I will break down,

and cry…

Because you won't be at my side…

And other days,

I will just smile at the sky…

Because,

I know…

That you'll be watching me…

Like you always did…

When you were alive…

"I will never forget your voice...Katsu...find another girl, someone who will love your voice as much as I did, and someone who will stand as your equal...I love you, your highness…" she went limp, and her chest ceased to rise and fall with her breath. She was gone.

I kissed her again, and whispered, "I love you more, Yuuka…"

I set her down in the grass and screamed in agony at the moon. No...no, no, no! It was not supposed to be like this! We were supposed to get married! She was supposed to become queen and shove it to her family's face...we were supposed to be happy together.

Misaki placed her hand on my shuddering shoulder while I silently screamed and cried. The ambulance took her body away, and I was left there, clinging to Misaki, my tears melting into the darkness of midnight.

"Katsu, I am truly sorry for your loss," Misaki sobbed.

I will never see her in the world of the living ever again. Yuuka Hosoda, Captain of the Levitian Royal Guard. The first guard to come off of the streets. The first real friend I ever made. My first love. In this battle against LIA, she was also the first to die.

Chapter 3: First Love, First Killed/END

PLEASE REVIEW! Tell me your thoughts!

5: Chapter 4: Insanity is Different from Chaos

Chapter 4: Insanity is Different from Chaos

[4087 CE, Karuizawa, Japan} {Earth]

*Prince Katsu Fujo*

I returned home and found Kanade on the edge of the couch, wringing her hands white with worry. At the sound of my entrance, her head jerked up and her eyes were filled with tears. I felt sick to my stomach. I rushed into the washroom and heaved. It felt like all of my stress and sadness mixed together into puke. I coughed and choked, new tears spilled from my eyes.

Exhausted, I leaned against the tiled wall and closed my eyes. The door creaked open and the heaviness of a cold, damp towel fell onto my forehead. I opened my eyes once more and saw Kanade, gently wiping Yuuka's blood off of my hands and using her other hand to hold the towel on my head. Once she was satisfied, she hurried out of the room and returned with a glass of water. Cupping my face with her left hand, she brought the glass to my lips with her right, gently coaxing it into my mouth. Without a word, she helped me stand and left me alone to brush my teeth.

She was on the couch again, this time caring for the sparrow. When she saw me, she placed the box aside on the floor and then looked up at me, opening her arms with a teary smile. I did not have to think it through. Without hesitation, I knelt before her and hugged her waist to my face, exhaling a sob. She silently wrapped her arms around my neck and stroked my hair, just as she did for the sparrow. And then, she began to sing. Her voice remained melodious even though she had clearly been crying.

I get so happy when you smile,

Your smile breaks through the clouds of gray…

Far from the sunny days that lie,

in sleep…

Waiting with patience for the spring,

when the flowers will bloom renewed again…

Knowing there's more beyond the pain,

of today…

And though the scars of yesterday,

remain…

You can go on living as much as you heart,

believes…

You can't be born again,

although you can change…

Let's stay together…

always…

Then, I do not know why it felt so right, but, she gently lifted my face to hers and touched her lips to mine. A tender kiss, fitting the song she had sung for me, comforting my heart and putting me at ease. I paused and stared at her in shock, but I kissed her again. I'm sorry, Yuuka…

"CLUNK CLUNK CLUNK!" someone rapped his/her knuckles on the apartment door, waking me from the nightmare I relived in my dreams. I sat up, gasping, Yuuka's agonized wails still rang through my mind. I was lying on the couch with a thin sheet neatly spread over my legs. The knocking continued until, to my surprise, Kanade jumped up from the floor beside the couch. I suppose I did not notice her sleeping there. She must have been watching over me last night but, ended up giving in to drowsiness.

She opened the door and I heard a distinct German accent with the faintest of Levitin District Area 16 dialect. I swung out from under the sheet and went to see who was there. It was most likely Princess Karin Schneizer from Levitin District Area 16 as Yuuka's replacement. I hanged back just a bit though, so that whoever it was could not identify me. I did not know for sure that it was her. It could be an agent from LIA for all I knew.

"Good morning," the voice prompted, it was clearly female, "I have come to speak with Katsu Funo. I was told that this is where he currently resides."

"Uh...yeah. Yes, he does. Um...I can ask if he wants to see you, if you'd like?" Kanade turned, seeing where I was, she continued, "Katsu, there's a girl here who has come to see you. I think it might be pretty important."

Prepared for the worst possible situation, I stepped forward, placing a protective hand on her head. The last thing I want is to have her get mixed up in all the trouble that follows me everywhere. She will end up hurt...or worse: dead. Just like Yuuka.

To my relief, a girl my age stood stiff and tall with her fierce tangerine-colored eyes locked on mine. I recognized her uniform right away. Her wavy, orange hair was tied up in a ponytail that reached almost to her waist; its bold color contrasting from the drab gray and blue Levitian Royalty Battle Attire. If I was going to speak with her regarding Yuuka's death, it would have to be alone. Kanade can not know about who I really am or where I am really from and not get involved at the same time. It's one or the other. I would rather hernot get involved.

I gave Kanade a reassuring smile and then closed the apartment door behind me so that I was alone with this girl in the hall. Keeping my voice low, I asked, "You must be Princess Karin Schneizer of Levitian District Area 16, am I correct?"

She nodded, "Indeed, I am. Crowned Prince of Central Levita, I am here to inform you that I will be taking Yuuka Hosoda's place as the Captain of the Levitian Royal Guard."

"What about Levitian District Area 16? Who will lead them if you have been transferred to Central Levita?"

"You need not worry, your highness. I resigned my crown to my younger sister," she bent down onto one knee and raised her opposite hand, holding a Beretta M9, resting the barrel of the gun on my right shoulder as a sign of loyalty. This sounds too organized and perfect...it could be a fake...a way to lure me into the clutches of LIA.

Brushing the gun barrel off of my shoulder, I shot my arm out and grabbed the Beretta M9 before she could react, pointing it to her forehead. She did not flinch but, she did not level my gaze.

"Before you carelessly toss around your trust and loyalty," I hissed, "I have a better idea. How about you prove to me that your intentions really are to become my protector? And then you can do your meaningless little gesture."

"Your highness, I assure you," she sighed, "I am not from LIA. I will prove to you that my intentions are only to become your protector."

We shall see...I hope you know who it is holding the gun right now. I pulled my hand back but, kept my finger ready on the trigger. She stood and flexed her fingers before staring me down with a determined blaze in her eyes.

"Levitian District Area 16 is specialized in levitating weaponry from different places in the world and bringing them to our current location," she stated before holding out her hands and closing her eyes. In three seconds, an M16 rifle materialized and dropped into her arms. She threw it in the air and pointed at it with her index finger, causing it to hang in the air as if on a string. She then proceeded to twirl her finger, controlling the rifle's movements through the air.

I snickered, "It will take more than that to convince me. A real LeviGenomic Humanoid should not have to use their finger."

Her eyes narrowed and she lowered her hand, allowing the gun to clatter to the floor. Glaring at the M16, she chewed on her top lip, waiting for the gun to move. Slowly, it began to rise and on irritated impulse, she flung it into my side. Hard. I stumbled and gasped from losing the oxygen she forced out of me. She pointed her finger at me and lifted me into an upright position once again.

"Now do you believe me, your highness?" she smirked and I gritted my teeth. "I will take that as a 'yes,' and if you do not mind, I need to send the fine M16 back to where I got it," she closed her eyes and held out her hands again, making the rifle float above her and disappear.

"Very well, it is a pleasure to meet you, former princess of Levitian District Area 16, Karin Schiezer. You need to make sure that you know Yuuka Hosoda has perished, due to six gunshot wounds to her stomach. I want you to pretend you are my cousin who has come to attend the funeral. Do not give any indication what-so-ever that you are from Levita. Understand?"

"Of course, your highness."

"Splendid," with that, I handed the Beretta M9 back to her and opened the apartment door again. Immediately, Kanade bounded over, ignoring Karin's presence and shoved a stack of papers into my face.

"Katsu! Thank goodness, I was getting a little worried. Anyway, the hospital faxed us Yuuka's documents. She was pronounced dead at 3:19 am yesterday due to six bullet wounds in her stomach. None of her relatives could be reached, so, Karuizawa Academy is taking the responsibility of planning her funeral since the crime was on school grounds," she leafed through the pages and continued reading, "Her cremation is scheduled three days from now along with the funeral service...and uh...the investigation of her murder is still being continued. None of the campus security cameras were able to pick up footage of the gunman nor could they find any sound recordings of gunfire…" she looked up at me with her seafoam eyes covered in a sheen of tears.

"Katsu...her killer hasn't been determined...that means...her death was...!" she fell to her knees and dropped the papers, watching her own hands quake with devastation, "K-Katsu...her killer most likely won't be brought to justice at the rate they're going now! I-it'll become a...c-cold case! I...I'm so sorry!"

Such a nice girl...feeling remorse for someone whom she was never very close to. I smiled and knelt before her, putting my hands on her shaking shoulders, "Kanade...I'm very glad you care as much as I do, but, you needn't feel sorry for something you did not commit," I ran my fingers through her thin, straight hair gently and she looked up, tears streaming down her pale cheeks.

"Now, get yourself together and greet my cousin," at this, her eyes bulged and she whipped around to face Karin, who had remained polite and quiet the entire time, causing her to fall backward into my arms. She sprang up an impressive height and righted herself, gathering the fallen papers before holding out her hand for Karin to shake. Karin glanced at me with a slightly concerned expression while Kanade stood awkwardly with her hand outstretched in the air.

Finally, Karin shook it with a smile and said, "Hello, I am his cousin. I am the only one who was close enough to the two of them as children that I share a special bond with them. I felt the absence of Yuuka right away. I hope you will allow me to stay here for awhile."

Kanade beamed and nodded, "Of course you can stay! There's one more room next to Yuuka's old one, if that's okay?"

"Thank you for such warm hospitality. I appreciate it very much."

"No problem!" her face fell again, "I'm a member of the Student Council, so, I should probably go help with the funeral...I'll see you guys later."

Yuuka's funeral and cremation came and went, washed away with all the tears that were shed. Melancholy passed after a time and life moved along. Karin enrolled into the academy and I became closer with Misaki. She became someone who always stood by my side, trying to level with me as an equal.

*Misaki Kuroyami*

Yuuka is out of the picture. Father has instructed me to get closer to the prince and lure him to a place alone where father's LIA agents will capture him. I have been given one week. Impossible? Yes, that is precisely why I shall succeed.

*Prince Katsu Fujo*

"Katsu, are you free today?"

I glanced up from my physics textbook and Misaki stood in front of my desk with a hopeful smile. "Ha!" I laughed, "Misaki, you ask me that every day now."

"No, I do not. Please, answer my question."

"Fine," I sighed with mock exasperation, "Yes, I have no plans."

"You hate saying that because it makes you sound like you are forever alone."

"Shut up."

"Nope!" she beamed and grabbed my wrist pulling me through the doors before the crowd of students came pouring out too. "I say, we go to the corn field and eat some of the corn!"

Before I could answer, Naoto's voice called after us, "Hey! Wait up!" He and Hiroko caught up with us, panting behind the two of them was Kanade trying her best to run and wave at the same time.

"Where were you two headed all alone? Huh?" Naoto teased and punched me in the shoulder while Hiroko winked at Misaki putting her arm around her shoulders. Misaki laughed nervously and cringed, never particularly relishing the feeling of being touched by someone else.

"We were headed for the cornfield in the Agriculture Division to find some ripe ones to eat. You can join us if you would like?"

Kanade slapped her hands on my back from behind and caused me to dive into the grass from fear. She giggled, "Whoops! Sorry! Didn't remember how skittish you are! Anyway, I think it's a great idea for all of us to go!"

"I agree. I have always wanted to eat corn," Karin agreed. Everyone was silent and stared at her, each thinking the same thing: Wait...what?! She's never eaten corn before?!

"Well, um, alright," Misaki mumbled, "I suppose you can come," she then looked up with a charming smile, "Friends of mine are always welcome."

Chaos. Insanity. All Hell broke loose in that stupid little corn field. Who caused it? Misaki. What was her motive? That's easy.

All at once, armed men suited in green and gray uniforms with the letters "L," "I," and "A" on their chests surrounded us. They destroyed the corn stalks, giving us no place to run and take refuge. The one person who wasn't running for dear life? Misaki. She walked right up to a man with a more superior uniform and held up her hands. I ran back and tried to grab her hand but, a soldier pointed his FAL rifle to my chest, forcing me down.

Naoto shouted over the noise, "Hey! Leave him alone!" he ran to tackle the gunman in order to help me. Big mistake. The soldier turned his attention away from me and shot Naoto in the neck. He was dead in an instant.

"Stand down, citizens. This is a mandatory government order."

"NOOOO! I don't believe a single word of that load of crap!" Hiroko screamed and ran to the side of her brother's corpse, caressing his gray face before planting a tender kiss on his lips. The soldier must have felt sorry for her because they did nothing more and left her be. Unfortunately, they went straight for Kanade, who was ashen white, frozen in trembling fear. Hiroko threw a glare at me. The look in her eyes was wild. Just like that, she snapped. She growled a loud, animalistic noise before lunging for my neck in an attempt to choke me. I did not try to stop her though. It was my fault she had gone insane within only a matter of seconds.

"YOU! YOU COULD HAVE DONE SOMETHING! HE WAS HELPING YOU! WHY DIDN'T YOU HELP HIM IN RETURN WHEN HE NEEDED IT MOST?!" her normally warm, brown eyes were bloodshot, spilling with tears as she clawed and scratched, but, Karin grabbed her from behind.

"Hiroko, calm down. Katsu felt exactly as you do now when Yuuka died and Misaki could have done something," Karin fought to restrain Hiroko while the soldiers nonchalantly consulted what to do next. Hiroko finally caught a lock of Karin's hair and yanked. Releasing a sharp cry of pain, Karin swung with all her strength and Hiroko slammed onto the ground.

"I am truly sorry. You leave me no choice," Karin pointed her Beretta M9 at Hiroko's forehead, but at the last possible second, Hiroko kicked the barrel and ran for Naoto again. Karin clenched her teeth and ran after her while the soldiers seemed to have decided their next move. Did they come just to wreak this nonsensical havoc? They act as if everything is under control!

"BANG!" a single gunshot rang through the air, stilling and silencing everyone else. Misaki's elegant emerald eyes bearing no emotion. They were just cold and distant, while she carefully retracted her hand from Hiroko's dismembered and bleeding skull.

In her hand was a pistol. She cleared her throat, "She was becoming a problem. That brother of hers was quite troublesome as well."

"Misaki...were you the one who killed Yuuka?" Kanade's shivering voice squeaked. I froze. I had never thought of the possibility. Why? Was I blinded by a growing love for her? Disgusting.

I kept my gaze on Misaki, waiting for her answer. She smirked, "Yes. I killed her."

Something inside me changed. I grabbed her neck with one hand and used the other to twist the pistol from her. Shoving her toward the sky, I tightened my hold on her neck, a feeling of enjoyment coursed through my veins when I heard her gasp and choke.

"You killed her. And yet, you had the guts to try and pursue me," I sneered while the others just watched in shock, "I know exactly what you're trying to pull here, little Miss Gothic Princess. You want your fridgin' LIA agents to see my power. Well, it looks like you got it."

I concentrated on her helpless form while she dangled from my grasp. Releasing my hand, I kept her suspended in the air while she gasped for all the oxygen she had lost. I heard Kanade whisper, "Holy crap…" while a soldier muttered into a radio device, "It's him. He's usin' his mind to levitate yer daughter off of the ground, boss."

I didn't care though. What more do I have that they can possibly take away from me? I levitated Misaki slowly upward until she was a good 25 feet in the air. I clicked the next bullet into the pistol and shot at her face. At the last second, I made her float away from the line of fire by only a millimeter. She flinched visibly, letting out a yelp of fear as it zipped by, just barely grazing her left ear. I looked away, purposefully making sure that the break in my concentration caused her to fall 10 feet before I flicked my eyes back to her again. She flailed her arms about while I happily swooped her through the air in a classic roller coaster pattern. Her face was white and her long black hair stuck to her face in sweaty strands. Her breathing was raspy and irregular, full of panic while she directed her widened eyes at mine. What irritated me was that no matter what I did to terrorize her, she did not make sound. I was not going to let her get away with murdering Yuuka and having an intention to take her place by my side only to later turn me in to the crazed scientists she works for. Nope. Sorry, not going to happen.

I narrowed my eyes and turned my focus only on her hair so that the only thing I was levitating were those wispy tendrils of ebony. The rest of her body flopped down and her hair follicles stretched and strained her scalp from the sudden weight. Her cold and determined expression instantly changed into one of excruciating pain. I knew I was close, so, I moved my eyes up and down in rapid, jerky movements. This controlled her hair to tug up and down just as my eyes were, pulling her head more and more.

Tears streamed down her face and she finally screamed an ear-piercing wail, "AAAGGGHHH…! S-stop! Let me down, you sadistic jerk!"

An evil grin spread across my face. Seeing her suffer is incredibly fun! I lowered her until she was about 3 feet from the ground, then, I allowed gravity to do the rest. She fell to the ground with a heavy thud, curling up into a ball and rubbing her scalp. She did not get up, but, it was clear that she was able to move. She just was simply afraid to do so.

"Nngh! K-Katsu! Karin! HELP!" Kanade's shrill plea snapped me back to the current situation at hand. I turned to see Kanade being gagged with her hands bound behind her back. She kicked and thrashed about, doing everything she possibly could to avoid being dragged away. Karin was hidden in a single patch of corn stalks that still stood, her eyes closed. She must be getting weapons. Karin soon emerged with a 50-caliber submachine gun and two Tokarev TT-33s.

"Your highness, you can control multiple things at once if you use all ten of your fingers. That way, you can use your eyes for anything else," she grabbed both Tokarevs, pointing them at the soldiers that were trying to capture Kanade. They froze immediately, eyeing the guns ready to fire.

"I demand you to let her go. She is completely ordinary, there is nothing special about her that you could possibly study," Karin growled. I knew exactly what she was doing and I knew exactly how to help. I lunged for the 50-caliber submachine gun, knowing how risky it was. Ten soldiers fired at me in an attempt to keep me from obtaining the weapon but, I raised both of by hands, each finger keeping a bullet in the frozen in the air. I swung my arms around, flinging the bullets back to where they came from, hitting each of the ten soldiers right between their eyebrows with enough speed and force to kill them. Not one survived. I grinned. This was going to be interesting.

The remaining LIA soldiers were quiet for a moment, completely dumbstruck by my ability. Finally, what looked to be the captain of the group in his different uniform shouted, "Get him! Dead or alive!"

Triggers were pulled and the air shook with gunfire, but, not a single bullet even glanced me. I stopped each one, flinging them back and killing my attackers. Karin protected Kanade for a time while teaching her to use her Beretta M9.

When reinforcements arrived, Karin left Kanade to fend for herself, leading the extra forces away from the bloodbath I was causing. Out of my peripheral vision, I could spot her flipping, diving, and spinning, as if performing an intense gymnastics routine, to throw off her pursuers' aim. Yet, she didn't miss any of her targets either.

I had wiped out the men armed with guns, but, I still had to take care of the men with balanced katanas. I finally claimed the machine gun I had originally went for and aimed at the charging soldiers. I have enough bullets to take down quite a few...I can then levitate their katanas out of their reach and use it against them.

The fastest runner of the oncoming crowd swung at me, trying to slice my neck. I pivoted on my heel and whipped the barrel of the gun into his side, knocking him to the ground. I did not waste time. This is an easy kill, no need for me to use up my bullets. I snatched the katana and plunged it into his chest. Someone advanced from behind me, but I could already hear the "swish" of the blade through the air. Dropping to the ground, I watched my attacker leap over me in slow-motion as I pulled the trigger, "BANG!" and he flopped to the ground.

After a good amount of slashing, stabbing, and firing, the swarms of soldiers ceased to continue coming. Kanade and Karin had finished their battles as well. Breathless and sweaty, we formed a small circle around Misaki, who was still trembling on the ground, holding her head. In silent agreement, all three of us readied our guns and pointed them to Misaki.

"My, my, my...quite a massacre you have going on," said a deep and amused voice. I looked up and my eyes met with those of ugly greenish yellow. The man before us was in a classic white labcoat and he had studiously styled brown hair. He looked to be in his late thirties.

Simultaneously, we stepped back from Misaki and instead, aimed our weapons at him. He chuckled and adjusted his glasses, "Not to fear, I am Dr. Hirano Shiina. I am merely the head scientist of LIA, not a spectacular military man as you all seem to be."

So this is the man behind all of this? This is they guy who has been killing my people in order to lure me down to Earth. To capture me? For what?! What do I have that he wants?

"I know all about you," he gave me a glaring smirk, "Crowned Prince Katsu Fujo of Central Levita." My heartbeat's speed increased and I kept my shaking finger on the trigger.

"You see, many people around here think I'm crazy...I need you to prove to them that Levita in fact does exist, and then you can have your precious citizens back," he pulled out his own pistol, "Egotistical, I know. Then again, I never said that what I was doing wasn't selfish. It has been about my own reputation this whole time. I don't care who I kill, I want to come out on top as the 'good guy'."

I gulped and he grinned, "Catch my drift?" Neither of us responded. He turned his attention to Misaki's useless mess of black and frowned, "Pathetic. I thought I raised you better. You really are just a useless witch from the streets, thrown out by your own family."

Misaki's head jerked up and she stared at Dr. Shiina with wide, frightened eyes. Without another word, Dr. Shiina held his pistol to her forehead. Tears began drizzle down her cheeks and she whispered, "N-n-no...Father, I...I was trying to stay safe from bullets...I..." she squeezed her eyes shut and clenched fistfuls of her black gown in her pale hands. I felt that I should shoot him while I had the opportunity, but I couldn't. I need him alive in order to find and free my people.

"I'm sorry, Misaki. I really don't care who I kill, even you. As long as I prevail, dear daughter," he sneered and pulled the trigger, causing Misaki to fall forward onto her face, dead. Pools of her dark red blood tainted her jet black hair. Her eyes were still open, filled with an eerie, blank stare. The once cunning and clever emerald was now a dull pine green.

As if killing his adopted daughter was equivalent to cleaning a coffee table, Dr. Shiina casually dusted off his hands. Then, he tucked the pistol back into his coat pocket and said, "Now, I'm not going to kill any of you because I need you alive in order to prove to the world that I'm not crazy. We will meet again soon, with less blood," he began to turn away and head for his idling car, but paused, "Oh...and don't worry about the dead bodies. LIA has government paperwork that will clear everything with the student deaths."

As soon as he left, all of the stress that had been building up suddenly became overbearing. I dropped the submachine gun, ran to the closest clearing, and doubled over, vomiting onto the dead cornstalks.

Kanade placed a tentative hand on my back and whispered, "I'm starting to get the idea you puke out all of your negative emotions...I remember you hurled every time we tried to go over your speech for Yuuka's funeral." I didn't respond. I was feeling weak and hopeless. What am I going to do? How can I save my people, keep Kanade and Karin alive, and return home safely without being discovered by Earth's media and press?! "So...either of you gonna tell me what in God's name is going on and/or how the heck you two were able to do all of those crazy levitation stunts?"

I sighed and stood back up while Karin busied herself with returning the weapons she had levitated from wherever. "Kanade, have you ever heard of the floating kingdom, Levita?"

"Yeah...the kingdom that was fabled to have formed when a LeviGenomic asteroid hit the Earth. Not too long ago, another LeviGenomic asteroid came and infected people with the virus instead of seeping into the land. What are you getting at?"

"Levita is very real. In fact, we have forty other district areas levitating everywhere around the world. Central Levita is right above where we stand right now."

"WHOA! Back up! If there are several floating kingdoms, how come you don't change location?"

"As I said before, they are levitating, not floating. If they were floating, they would drift and crash daily into one another."

"Okay...so why does this Dr. Shiina want to get information from you so badly?"

"You know, you are surprisingly cool about this. I expected you to start going berserk. I never thought you would take it like I was telling you the weather."

"I trust what you say, Katsu. Anything you tell me is like you telling me the weather because I know you wouldn't lie to me. Now answer my question, please." I was shocked. Her reply was the one I least expected.

"Wow...okay. Dr. Shiina wants information from me because he somehow found out that I am Levitian Royalty. I am the Crowned Prince of Central Levita, so basically, I rule the entire Levitian population."

"All of the district areas and everything?"

"Yes. Anyway, only Levitian Royalty with my position have the power to make Levita visible to a normal human. Notice how when I stated that Central Levita was right above us, the sun still remained?"

"Yeah?"

"It's because it is invisible to you, but Karin and I can still see it. If Shiina gains an audience and has me reveal Levita to the world, my kingdom will collapse."

"Why?"

"Because once Levita is revealed, it can not be hidden from those who have seen it again. No one has figured out why that is yet, but, still. The world will be bombarding us with research planes and invading our peaceful way of life. You have heard of Shiina conducting experiments on the LeviGenomic Humanoids here?"

"Of course."

"I'm here to bring them to live in peace in Levita. But, I need to destroy LIA and Dr. Shiina first, so that Levita will return to being a 'fabled' kingdom."

Kanade nodded and gave me her hand, "Then, I'm going to help you two. Besides, he has no idea I'm a completely common human," she beamed and we shook hands, "I love you, and I would kiss you right now to show you how sincere I am, but...I think you should probably get home and drink some water first. Vomit mouth."

I laughed and nodded before the three of us headed for home, leaving the blood behind us as if they were nothing but ordinary rain puddles.

"Now that we have a naturally skilled gunwoman helping us," Karin smiled, "this battle is going to be insane."

"It's going to be chaos!"

"Kanade, 'insane' is the same thing as 'chaos,'" Karin smirked and gently shoved Kanade. I stayed silent though and pondered that statement.

Insane is the same as chaos…? That's questionable. Chaos usually comes first...and drives people insane. They work hand-in-hand but...they're not quite the same. No, they are not the same at all. Chaos is what just happened back there with the massacre. Insanity is what resulted from the chaos and drove Hiroko and Misaki to become completely desperate people. Insanity is very different from chaos. Either way, the three of us are about to cause both.

Chapter 4: Insanity is Different from Chaos/END

6: Chapter 5: Only Human

Chapter 5: I Am Human

[4087 CE, Karuizawa, Japan} {Earth]

*Prince Katsu Fujo*

How much longer will I need to stay here on Earth to complete my mission? I sat on the couch beside Kanade, towelling off my damp hair. She mumbled a form of greeting, but kept her her eyes trained on her laptop screen. Karin placed herself on the floor beside the couch, polishing a balanced katana she must have stolen from one of the dead soldiers. A barely audible knock on the door grabbed my attention. Karin and Kanade tensed as well, both girls looked at me, expecting me to take the first action. It's not that I wasn't going to investigate anyway, but I sighed and took the sword Karin offered. As I turned towards the door, I felt Kanade grasp my wrist. Her eyes were scared and her breathing was panicked. I didn't quite know what to do, but to stare into those calm, seafoam eyes.

Karin silently set her hand on Kanade's shoulder and she smiled, "Do not fret. I will open the door, in case someone with a gun is waiting for us." Kanade returned the smile and nodded, releasing her grip and relaxing back into the couch. As we approached the door, neither of us made a sound. I twisted the doorknob and flung it open with the katana ready. Karin jumped in front of me with her Beretta M9 held prepared to shoot. No one was there, though.

The only thing waiting on the floor was a black, miniscule box with a single green button sitting on its top. Karin lowered her hands and tucked her gun back in her belt loop, stepping aside for me to investigate. I picked up the box and retreated back into apartment where Kanade stood with a heavy-looking cast iron frying pan clutched in a batting position. I set the box onto the floor and pressed the button.

A large hologrammed screen displaying Dr. Shiina in front of a white backdrop that had "LIA" in grayish green ink. popped up and he began to speak. His voice was serious, "If you are listening to this message, I assume you are Crowned Prince Katsu Fujo of Central Levita and former Levitian District Area 16 princess, Karin Schneizer. Now, listen carefully. If you wish to free the remaining freakish humanoids I hold hostage, I expect you to sit tight wherever you are and wait for me to arrive. We will negotiate matters from there," he paused and adjusted his glasses, "Do not even try to pull anything foolish. Expect me at seven o' clock sharp outside the penthouse door of Kaibara Luxury Apartments, tomorrow."

Then, the box disappeared along with the screen, leaving the three of us gaping at each other with disbelief. I don't know what came over me, but, I dropped to my knees and stared at the ceiling, laughing hysterically. I gritted my teeth in a screwed smile, trying to get ahold of myself.

Having recovered, I looked up at Kanade and Karin, their perplexed expressions were identical, and I snickered, "He has made this much too easy for us. He thinks we are going to stay here and hide until he comes for us, HA! Like h**l we will!"

Karin spoke first, "Then, what is it exactly that we are going to do?"

"We can infiltrate the LIA science headquarters while he is on his way here without much difficulty."

Kanade ran back to her computer and typed with furious speed. After clicking around, she said, "If he's coming from the LIA headquarters, which is most likely, and takes the H.T. here...it'll take him about an hour."

"What if he takes a normal vehicle like the car he was riding yesterday?"

"Hmm…" she clicked again brightened, "It'll take him three hours, at the very least!"

Karin tightened her orange ponytail and muttered, "I think it would be best if we limited ourselves to forty-five minutes. We have no positive proof that he will be departing from the headquarters."

Both Kanade and I nodded, and she continued, "I suggest we start preparing now, so we can leave in the morning," with that, she walked in the direction of her room, but I reached out and grabbed her shoulder. She whipped back around and gave a startled cry when I pulled her into me. I didn't say anything, I just held her in a secure hug. She stayed tense for awhile until she slowly returned the embrace, leaning her head against my collarbone.

"Karin, I know for a fact that you are going to risk your life for me no matter what I say. I'm telling you right now, it makes you such a wonderful and strong woman," I whispered into her soft, wavy orange hair, "I can not even imagine how hard it is to have to act like you are ten years older than you really are, knowing that you could die at any second in the place of a guy like me."

"Katsu...you are the only one who has ever considered that," she looked up at me and smiled sadly, "If it makes you feel better, think of it this way: I will die for you, because I want to. I willingly volunteered to be your protector. It is my duty."

"Karin, I hope you know that you have become someone more than a mere guard to me."

"Katsu, I'm seventeen. I'm dense. But, not dense enough to let that go unnoticed," she stepped up on her tip toes and kissed my cheek, "In return, I certainly hope you know you became more to me than just someone I was ordered to protect." She pulled away and halted her steps to find Kanade standing behind her with her arms wide open and her eyes filled with tears.

When they hugged, I could not believe my eyes, for I noticed something I had never realized before. Both girls had hair that mimicked burning flames of a bonfire. Kanade's beautiful blood red hair represented the warmth and comforting of a dying sunset. Karin's was like molten steel, burning strong and fierce. Together, they resembled the sun, pure and fighting darkness with their light.

Kanade gave Karin a teary smile, "As your friends, we will do everything we can to try and prevent your death, okay?" she bit her lip and choked out a sob, "So, please...try your best, too, okay? Try not to leave us."

"I will," Karin nodded and placed her hands firmly on Kanade's shoulders, "And you, remember that crying is fine if you stay in Katsu's arms."

Both Kanade and I shot her a shocked glance and Karin chuckled, "Do not give me that expression. As said before, I'm not that dense. I can tell. Take care of him for me." with that, she closed the door of her room softly behind her.

There was an awkward silence between Kanade and I that I assumed was something typical a seventeen-year-old on Earth was supposed to experience. Kanade clasped her hands tightly behind her back and she looked everywhere except my face.

"Kanade," I opened my arms just as she did for me when Yuuka died, just as she just did for Karin. She looked up and her pretty seafoam eyes widened. No hesitation.

She barrelled into my arms and wrapped her own around my torso, crying, "Katsu, she knows she'll most likely die tomorrow!"

"I know."

"B-but! We have to make sure she doesn't! You won't have anyone left if she dies!"

"Fool, I have you."

She frowned and blushed, "That's not my point!"

"Then, what is your point?"

"My point, is that we need to do everything we can to protect her as she protects us!"

"That's fine, it's not like I ever said that I wasn't going to do so."

She did not respond and she hugged me tighter, mumbling, "Dude, I'm able to fit my arms around you like you're nothing."

"What?!"

"No offense, but, you're muscle is leaner than most men. Built for speed and accuracy. You're like...not normal."

"I honestly do not know how to respond that."

"You don't have to," she released me from her grasp but, instead grabbed my face, pulling me down and crashing her lips against mine. She pulled away and locked her eyes with mine, "But, I know for a fact that you're human...LeviGenome or not. And, a very kind human at that."

"Kanade…"

"Not to mention, your ice-blue eyes with jet black hair and pale skin makes you exoticly handsome!" she laughed.

I circled my arms around her waist and kissed her forehead, in between her eyes, and finally her lips. In response, she cupped one hand on my cheek and the other tangled with my hair. I still couldn't shake the memory of Yuuka, but, I truly loved this girl as an equal. Of course I loved Yuuka, but, now, I realize that it was a love that I dominated.

Yes, she is my equal. Even though the scars of yesterday and the memory of Yuuka remains, I must push on because there is more beyond the pain of today and the promise of tomorrow. Even though I'm like broken glass, hurting others around me but, still shattered myself, I have to fight to get my happiness and fight against my natural emotions. Afterall, I am only human.

Chapter 5: I Am Human/END

7: Chapter 6: Levitation

Chapter 6: Levitation

[4087 CE, Karuizawa, Japan} {Earth]

I checked my watch and impatiently waited for the H.T. to register. The three of us stood waiting at 5:40 am, each of us equipped with a newly sharpened katana, five throwing knives, and an 80-caliber handgun. Clothed in tight black leather and masks Karin insisted we wear in order to make the least possible noise and hide our identities, I tugged at the uncomfortable material that acted as a second skin on my arms. The H.T. finally came and we took no time hopping on and arriving on the border of the Vacation/Ocean Division.

"The lab should only be about half a mile from here. We need to continue on foot from here, or else we might raise suspicion of a random H.T. stopping without dropping off people," Kanade lead us and after ten minutes of intense sprinting through shadows, we came to the LIA science lab. Good lord, Kanade. Do you study maps of this area and then practice running without breaking a sweat?!

"Dr. Shiina is leaving. Look," Karin hissed and pointed through the bushes at the bespectacled man leaving the lab with an entourage men in gray and green suits with LIA in bold black against their chests. Karin positioned her arm at the ready. As soon as they left, she threw one of her knives at the first guard's jugular. When the other rushed to his side, Kanade leapt up from the bushes and soundlessly ran up from behind, her hair like a cape of flames. Unsheathing her katana, she stabbed the second guard in his back right between his shoulder blades. Karin and I followed, keeping watch for anyone else while Kanade retrieved Karin's throwing knife and grabbing the keys of the second guard.

We slipped through the halls and I continuously glanced at the hologrammed map my watch was displaying, leading the way to the experimental room. When we got there, Dr. Shiina and his entourage was waiting for us with amused smirks.

"Well, it looks like our little friends here took the bait…" he paused and chuckled, "Did you really think I was going to let you go that easily? Foolish teenagers. After you show the world I'm not crazy, I get to keep you and have you do any work that may need levitating for me."

"Scumbag! Don't screw with me!" Karin growled and lunged for his throat with a knife. Kanade grasped her katana in one hand and clutched her handgun in the other, following after Karin. I clenched my teeth in frustration and unsheathed my sword, beheading the men that attempted tackling the girls. Dr. Shiina nimbly danced out of the way and hid behind his men, using them as decoys. A few older men lifted their guns and fired, but I stopped and returned the bullets while the girls chased Shiina down the corridors.

I soon ran after them and found a whole new crowd of soldiers, closing in. Karin did her "gymnastics routine," slicing heads, shooting bullets, and throwing knives. Kanade took the distraction as an opportunity to try and scope out the location of the sneaky scientist. I gave Kanade a look of trust before joining Karin, allowing Kanade to slip away unnoticed.

Crap...there are way too many of them! I desperately fought but, they kept coming. Three bullets caught me in my left leg and I cried out in agony, putting pressure on the wounds. Blood spilled and I took advantage of it. Summoning all of my strength, I limped around, strategically spilling blood on the linoleum. Many of the soldiers slipped and gave Karin an opening to take them out. Beads of sweat rolled down my face and my breathing became incredibly labored. I felt light-headed and I slumped against a wall. Karin caught sight of my condition and she attempted to get to my side, but a man behind her was not quite dead yet. He lifted a shuddering arm, barely keeping hold of a pistol.

"Karin...behind you!" I gasped. Too late. "BANG!" Karin collapsed to the floor clutching her side in sync with the fall of the shooter's arm. I gagged and regurgitated what little I had in my stomach onto the blood-covered floor beside me. Still, I dragged myself to her side and held her paling face.

"K-Katsu...thank you, for making me feel human. For making me a semi-normal seventeen-year-old. Tell that to Kanade, too. I promise...I...will...say 'hi' to Yuuka for...you…"

"Karin...I'm so sorry…"

"Psh! Doesn't matter. You're someone worth...dying for…" she took her final breath and closed those tangerine eyes. Those eyes were fierce and determined to the very end.

Kanade gasped when she found us, "Oh my...Katsu?! Karin?!" she knelt beside me and squeaked, "Is she…?"

I nodded. She then turned her attention to my leg and gasped even louder, "Your leg?!" she tore off her mask and did her best to wrap the wounds before placing a key into my hands, "He was easy to kill. I found the key that opens the experimental cells. I'll cover you from behind, go!" I screamed and stood, each step was excruciatingly painful, but we made it to the cells without any obstacle. In the cells, were the remaining LeviGenomic former-humans. I swallowed hard and said in the strongest possible voice, "I am Crowned Prince Katsu Fujo of Central Levita. I have come to Earth to free you and bring you to Levita where you shall live in peace once more."

It did not take much. They instantly trusted me and a few of the men helped me exit the lab on on my good leg. Once outside, I reached toward the sky and Levita became visible only to Kanade and the LeviGnomics.

I smiled at Kanade after downing a bottle of deliciously cold water, "Thank you, Kanade. For everything. I love you, but, if I don't get home quickly, I'll die from fatal blood loss."

She began to sniff and tears leaked from the corners of her eyes as she nodded, "Yes, I understand. Thank you, too, Katsu. I don't feel alone anymore, and I finally have someone who thinks my hair is nice...I finally have someone who believes that my kindness is genuine, not fake...I finally found someone who thinks I'm beautiful both inside and out," she kissed me on my forehead, in between my eyes and then my lips. I did the same. Tears left my eyes as well and I kissed her one last time before the LeviGenomics formed a circle around me.

They levitated me off of the ground and began levitating each other. I held Kanade's hand until I was too high up in the air for her to hang on much longer.

"I will see you again, I promise," and I slipped Yuuka's platinum promise ring into her hand at the last moment.

She held the ring to her lips and put it on while whispering, "I'll be waiting." As the distance between us grew, the only thing I saw was the crimson flames of her hair engulfing her in the warmth of a new approaching sunset. Her calm and gentle seafoam-green eyes creased at the sides with a sad smile and she waved.

I closed my eyes and waited to finally return home to the palace.

Levitation is a power, yes, but it is something else too. It is a feeling everyone wants to deserve, the feeling of rising above others, but never drifting away.

Chapter 6: Levitation/END

8: Epilogue

Epilogue

[4090 CE, Karuizawa, Japan} {Earth]

*Kanade Akaihana*

It has been three years since I met Katsu. I'm twenty-one now and Katsu is probably twenty. Today is a normal saturday and I sit at the kitchen table, reading over my job as a weatherwoman application. A knock at the door puzzles me. Who could that be?

Opening the door, I gasped when I found Katsu standing there, beaming with a bouquet of roses in his hand. I jumped into his arms and smashed my lips onto his.

"Katsu...you came back!"

"Of course I did, I promised," he handed me the flowers and knelt on one knee, producing a small red box which had a shimmery gold diamond ring inside, "Did I not?"

I could not have cared less about how cliche the moment was. I just and jumped with excitement and allowed him to slip the ring onto my finger above the platinum one I still wore.

"Does this mean I get to go to Levita with you?!"

"Yes, indeed it does."

I couldn't help but, squeal and run to the window, gaping at the landmass levitating in the sky. I tore my application in half and in moments, I had what little valuable I had packed.

"Whoa...you want to leave now?"

"Uh, hello? I've been waiting for THREE YEARS! Of course I want to leave!"

"Okay, if that's fine with you," he took one of my bags with his right hand and held my hand in the other.

We got to the balcony of the penthouse I would no longer call home. Katsu wrapped his arm around my waist and levitated both of us into the sky. I was breathless and I clung to him, closing my eyes trying to forget the height.

He kissed me and whispered, "The sun is just beyond our reach. It will seem farther away sometimes, but it never disappears. The end is always another beginning...your new beginning will be as my queen, standing by my side as my equal."

He didn't have to say another word. I smiled and locked my gaze with his. His icy blue eyes were such a cold color, but the still possessed warmth and kindness. All I needed was him, as far as I knew.

"I love you, you make me feel like I'm levitating everyday."