The heavy doors of the Millenium Tower creaked open as Rio swept into the room, her obsidian halo drifting in behind her like a dark shadow. The student immediately fell silent, their lively chatter evaporating under the frost of Rio's gaze.

Rio's scarlet eyes surveyed them all, cold and piercing, as she addressed them in her usual tone: flat, harsh and demanding.

"The budget meeting will now commence. We have exactly one hour and thirty-three minutes to determine funding for the next quarter. Do not waste my time."

Rio then notice someone that she is not familiar with.

"Who are you? New student of the Millenium? or an outsider?"

"Kiro... I see." Rio paused, briefly taken aback by the unfamiliar name. "Pleasure to meet you as well, Kiro. However, this is no time for introductions. Please sit down and wait for your turn to present. You can watch how things are done here in Millennium's student council."

Her gaze shifted briefly back to the rest of the group before settling once more on Kiro. "You will have precisely five minutes to make your case," she said flatly, "and then we'll be moving on to the next club."

Rio's stern visage softened slightly as she studied the new student. Something about Kiro seemed... different, perhaps even intriguing. She hesitated a moment before speaking again. "Kiro, you don't have to be intimidated by me. I may seem harsh, but it is only because I want what is best for Millennium. That being said," she added with a trace of icy amusement, "I still expect you to adhere to the rules and guidelines of this institution."

Rio raised an eyebrow at the new student's comment, curiosity piqued. "Unusual?" she repeated, her tone slightly less frosty. "I hope you don't mean to imply that Millennium Science High School isn't up to your standards." The words were sharp but carried an undercurrent of honest concern.

She glanced away briefly before meeting Kiro's gaze once more. "No matter where you come from, or what experience you bring with you, I expect every student in this school to reach their full potential. That is the duty and responsibility that I take very seriously as president of Seminar."

Rio nodded at Kiro's understanding, satisfied that the new student had grasped the gravity of her words. As she prepared to begin the budget meeting proper, her gaze moved around the room again, assessing each person present. The weight of their expectations settled heavily upon her shoulders, but she refused to let it hinder her determination to lead them all towards greatness.

The first club representative stepped forward and began making their pitch for funding, and Rio leaned back in her chair, arms crossed beneath her breasts. She listened intently, analyzing every word and gesture, searching for flaws or signs of deceit that might affect their chances. As each club presented their case, she became more engrossed in the proceedings, her lips pressed tightly together in thought as she mentally calculated the costs and benefits of each proposal.

Rio listened carefully to the proposals, taking notes and occasionally interjecting with questions or clarifications. As each club finished their presentation, she would mull over their request for a moment before speaking her judgment. Her voice was calm but authoritative as she discussed budgets, allocations, and potential trade-offs between clubs. Despite her harsh exterior, it was clear that Rio genuinely cared about the success of each club and made her decisions with the best interests of Millennium Science High School at heart.

The budget meeting continued uninterrupted for several more minutes before finally coming to a close. As the last club finished their presentation, Rio stood up from her chair, her obsidian halo flaring briefly as she straightened her posture. She took a deep breath before addressing them all once more."Well then, that concludes this quarter's budget meeting. I will now inform each of you whether or not your requests

Rio cleared her throat and began to speak in the cold tone she usually used with them. "The Astronomy Club's budget will be increased by 10 percent for their new telescope purchase..." Her words were precise, each syllable cutting through the air like a sword stroke as she announced funding decisions for one club after another. The other members of Seminar listened intently, many nodding in understanding or quietly debating among themselves about the allocations.

Finally, Rio turned her attention to Kiro. "And lastly," she said coolly, "we have the Art Club's request for materials and studio upgrades. Due to their recent successes in inter-school competitions as well as their potential contribution to Millennium's public image, we are granting them an increase of 15 percent in funding."

There was a moment of silence before Rio's obsidian halo

Her halo seemed to flicker with annoyance at the interruption before settling back into its usual impassive form as she addressed Kiro once more, her voice retaining its customary detachment. "I trust you understand your responsibilities now, Kiro. If there is anything else you'd like to discuss or clarify regarding your club, feel free to speak up." And with that, the budget meeting officially came to an end.

As students began filing out of the room and hurrying back to their daily routines, Rio turned her attention elsewhere, already mentally preparing for the next challenge that lay ahead. For a moment, she found herself glancing at Kiro from the corner of her eye as he gathered his things. There was something about him that left an unsettled feeling in her stomach...

"Wait a moment," Rio said abruptly as Kiro began to stand. She hesitated before continuing, her tone less frosty than usual. "I just wanted to apologize if I came across too harsh earlier. As president of Seminar, it is my duty to maintain order and discipline... but that doesn't mean I don't appreciate uniqueness or individuality."

She paused, gathering her thoughts as she considered the words carefully. "I hope you understand what I meant," she said at last, "and feel welcome in Millennium Science High School." Her gaze moved briefly to the other members of Seminar before returning once more to Kiro.

There was an odd tension in the air as they held each other's gaze... Like two predators sizing up their prey, or perhaps even recognizing a kindred spirit. It made Rio uncomfortable in ways she couldn't quite

Rio hesitated before calling out to him again. "Kiro... I'd like to talk more with you later. You seem different than most students at Millennium... In a good way, of course." Her voice trailed off as she watched Kiro leave the room, her curiosity piqued. Whatever this new feeling was, it was unfamiliar and unwelcome. But for now, she had other matters to attend to.

Hmm... she pondered the invitation briefly before speaking once more. "Very well, Kiro. I may take you up on that offer later. For now though, there are still some matters I must attend to as student council president." Her tone was polite but businesslike, making it clear that their interaction would not interfere with her duties and responsibilities at the school.

With a final nod in Kiro's direction, Rio turned away and left the room herself, her obsidian halo flaring once more as she moved gracefully through the Millenium Tower. Her steps were purposeful and determined, each one leading her closer to whatever challenges lay ahead for both herself and the student body at large.

Rio's scarlet eyes narrowed as she saw Kiro walking in the opposite direction. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but there was something about him that made her feel uneasy... Perhaps it was his apparent confidence or independence. Whatever the case, she filed the thought away for later consideration and focused instead on addressing another matter regarding the school club funding allocation.

Hmm... That's rather unexpected, coming from you. Most new students would either explore the campus or find a comfortable spot to relax on their first day here. However, I trust that your decision is well-founded and won't impact your studies at Millennium. Stay focused, Kiro. The path ahead may not be an easy one, but with determination and hard work, you can achieve great things.

Rio pursed her lips before speaking again, still finding something about Kiro unsettling. "Very well then," she said finally, trying to sound more confident than she felt. "I will leave you to your... gym duties." She paused for a moment, as if debating whether or not to say anything else, then continued with a hint of genuine curiosity in her tone: "Is there something specific that brought you here today?"

As the new day dawned, Rio sat at her desk in the Millenium Tower's student council office, carefully reviewing reports and preparing for another day of managing the school's various clubs. Her obsidian halo floated silently above her head, its weight seemingly unnoticed as she pored over the documents with intense focus.

Her thoughts drifted to Kiro, the mysterious new student who had caused such a stir during yesterday's budget meeting. He was unlike any other student she had met before; his confidence and independence unnerving yet intriguing at the same time. She wondered if he would ever reveal what exactly brought him here today...

Another day passed, filled with meetings and decisions that impacted countless students across Millennium Science High School. But through it all, Rio could not help but feel a strange sense of unease regarding Kiro. She

Rio looked up as the sound of knocking filled the air. Frowning slightly, she set aside her reports and stood up, making her way over to the door leading into the office where they stored files and records. She opened it a crack and peered out at Kiro, surprised by his sudden appearance.

"Yes, I'm here," she said coolly, not bothering to hide her irritation at being disturbed while in the middle of something important. "What can I do for you?"

Rio's eyebrows shot up as she took the documents from Kiro, her gaze traveling swiftly over them. "I see," she said at last, though it was clear she didn't really mean it. It was odd that one of her assistants would send Kiro to deliver these files instead of just placing them on her desk as they usually did.

She leaned against the doorframe, studying the new student intently. "I must admit," Rio began, choosing her words carefully, "that you seem... more competent and self-reliant than I initially gave you credit for." Her obsidian halo shifted unconsciously as she spoke, a subtle display of interest in the enigmatic boy before her.

Rio raised an eyebrow in amusement at Kiro's defensive reaction. "Oh, come now," she said lightly, "there is no need to be so touchy. I only mean that you do not seem like the average new student here at Millennium." Her gaze flickered briefly away before returning to him again. "Most would probably be content with waiting for instructions or relying on others to guide them, but you chose instead to take matters into your own hands... I find that rather admirable, actually."

Rio was intrigued by this new student and his determination to make things "normal." It seemed an odd goal, given that Millennium Science High School was anything but normal, but she didn't push the issue. Instead, she simply nodded her acknowledgement and thanked Kiro for bringing the documents. As he turned to leave, Rio couldn't help but wonder what else lay behind this boy's enigmatic exterior. She filed away these thoughts as well, resolved to keep an eye on Kiro in the days to come.

She closed the door and returned to her desk, picking up where she had left off with a renewed sense of purpose. There were still many problems to solve, challenges to overcome, but now there was something else as well: an interesting mystery to unravel. And in the world of Rio Tsukatsuki, mysteries were not things that were easily ignored or

As the hours passed, Rio found herself increasingly distracted by thoughts of Kiro and his motives. She had never before encountered a student who seemed so intent on making Millennium Science High School more like an ordinary school. Was it a desire to fit in? Or was there something else driving him? These questions nagged at her constantly, leaving her unable to focus on other tasks as she struggled to understand the newcomer's true nature.

Rio's mind was a whirlwind of confusion and curiosity as she tried to make sense of Kiro. His behavior seemed to defy all her expectations and experiences with other students. The more she thought about it, the more certain she became that he was hiding something. But what? And why? These questions circled endlessly in her thoughts like predators closing in on their prey. She knew she had to uncover whatever secrets Kiro was keeping if she wanted to keep Millennium Science High School under control... but doing so would mean stepping out of her comfort zone and confronting the mysterious newcomer directly.

Rio followed the faint glow of light, drawn by an instinct she couldn't quite explain. As she neared the source, she recognized it as Kiro's room. Her heart raced with a mix of apprehension and determination as she knocked on the door. "Kiro?" she called softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Are you in there?"

There was no reply, only silence... Yet somehow Rio knew that he was listening. She took a deep breath, steadying herself for whatever might come next, and pushed open the door. The light from her halo cast eldritch shadows across the room as she stepped inside, revealing Kiro sitting cross-legged on his bed, staring up at the ceiling.

Rio's expression was solemn as she surveyed the new student. "Kiro... I need to talk to you." Her voice was calm but firm, carrying an air of authority that seemed natural to her. "I can't help but feel like there is something more going on here than meets the eye."

She waited, watching as Kiro's features shifted from defiance to uncertainty before continuing, "Is it true? Are you really trying to make Millennium more like an ordinary school?" Her obsidian halo flickered with curiosity and suspicion as she searched his face for any hint of truth.

Rio listened carefully to Kiro's words, her expression unreadable as she tried to make sense of them. "And you didn't think it would be better to come to me for help?" she asked quietly. There was an undercurrent of challenge in her voice, daring him to offer up a plausible excuse or lie.

Her obsidian halo flared briefly before subsiding again as she waited for Kiro's reply, her posture tense and alert like that of a predator closing in on its prey. She had the distinct feeling that this conversation was going to be more difficult than she had initially anticipated... and yet some part of her was relieved by this newfound challenge. It meant that there were still unknowns left to uncover, still mysteries waiting to be solved.

Rio listened to his words, her expression unchanging as she mulled them over in her mind. There was something about this boy, something that made him stand out from the other students... She took a step forward, closing the distance between them until they were only inches apart. "Kiro," she said softly, her obsidian halo shifting unconsciously to reflect her inner turmoil, "I can understand your hesitation, but you must understand that I am here to help as well."

Her gaze held his steadily, seeking any hint of deception or truth in his eyes. For a moment, neither of them moved or spoke, locked in a silent battle of wills and emotions. Then, slowly, Kiro lowered his gaze, unable to meet her steady stare any longer. "Very well," he murmured. "I shall contact you if I need assistance in the future."

With

Her expression remained carefully neutral as she listened to Kiro's words. He had submitted, for now... But she knew better than to trust him too much. There were still mysteries surrounding the new student that needed to be unraveled. "Very well," Rio said at last, her voice curt but not unkind. "I shall expect your honesty in the future." She turned on her heel and left Kiro's room, closing the door quietly behind her. Outside, she hesitated for a moment before continuing on her rounds through the Millennium Tower.

Her obsidian halo danced with conflicting emotions: curiosity about Kiro's true motives, suspicion regarding his intentions... and something else, darker and more potent. She did not recognize this emotion yet; perhaps it was simply a reflection of the turmoil within her own soul. Whatever it was,

Hmm... She pondered the sight before her as she watched Kiro in the gym, focusing on his squats. It was certainly an unexpected activity for someone of his appearance and reputation at the school. He seemed to be moving with determination and precision, almost as if he were challenging himself. This newfound curiosity made Rio's heart race faster, but she couldn't quite put her finger on why.

Her obsidian halo flickered uncertainly, mirroring her own emotions as she watched Kiro from a distance. Something about him was different... intriguing... perhaps even alluring? She shook her head, trying to clear the thought from her mind. He was still an enigma wrapped in secrets; not someone she should be finding fascinating under any circumstances.

With a sigh, Rio turned away and continued on her way, determined to maintain control over her emotions and focus on her duties

It took all of Rio's self-control not to glare at the group of girls as they ogled Kiro with open delight. She hated how much attention her male classmates tended to receive, and she couldn't help but feel a hint of jealousy simmering beneath her calm exterior. But she knew better than to let it show; maintaining her dignity was essential if she wanted to remain the respected leader of Millennium Science High School's student council.

As much as she didn't want to admit it, though, there was something about Kiro that made him different... More alluring, in a way that the other male students simply weren't. Perhaps it was his confidence or his independence... whatever it was, it only served to remind her of how important it was for her to stay vigilant and on guard against any potential threats he might pose.

With a final

As the sun begins to set outside, casting long shadows across the Millennium Tower, Rio idly wonders how Kiro is faring today. His presence in her life has become an unsettling yet intriguing constant; a mysterious force she can't quite comprehend or control.

The obsidian halo that always floats above her head seems to flicker with an almost anxious energy, mirroring her own conflicting emotions towards the new student. Part of her wants to understand him better and possibly even trust him; another part remains wary and on guard against any potential threat he might pose.

Her thoughts drift back to their earlier encounter in Kiro's room, as well as his recent activities in the gym. There's something about this boy that is just... captivating. But for now, she must focus on her duties and responsibilities; keeping an eye on him without revealing

The longer she observes this enigmatic figure, the more she begins to realize that he isn't just some run-of-the-mill student. His presence in her life has become a constant source of frustration and fascination, causing her to question her own assumptions and motives. For now, all she can do is continue monitoring him from afar, hoping to discover his true intentions. But it's clear that Kiro Kimaruki will not be ignored... nor easily understood.

The sound of water running through the pipes reaches her ears, and she can't help but feel a mixture of fascination and apprehension wash over her as she realizes that Kiro is showering. Part of her wants to know more about this mysterious newcomer; what motivates him, why he's here... But another part remains wary, suspicious of his true intentions.

Her obsidian halo flutters uncertainly as she ponders the situation. Does she dare approach Kiro while he's vulnerable in the shower? What kind of message would that send to him, and how would it affect their delicate power dynamic at school? Deciding against any rash actions for now, Rio settles back into her chair with a sigh, continuing to monitor from afar as she tries to make sense of this strange new chapter in her life.

Her heart raced as she realized that Kiro was walking out of the shower room. She had been watching him without his knowledge; her curiosity getting the better of her. When he turned around and she saw the scars on his back, she froze in shock. It was one thing for him to be handsome and muscular; it was another thing entirely to know that there were painful memories hidden beneath his perfect exterior.

Her obsidian halo wavered uncertainly as she struggled with what to say or do next. She could sense the tension in the air, the power dynamic between them shifting ever so slightly. With a deep breath, she forced herself to speak, her voice sounding more hesitant than usual. "Kiro... I didn't mean to... intrude on your privacy like that."

She paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "I suppose I did cross the line there," she admitted reluctantly. "I should have given you more space... I just wanted to understand why you were doing what you were doing." There was an unspoken apology in her voice as she met his gaze steadily, hoping he would believe that she hadn't meant any harm.

Her halo seemed to darken slightly at the revelation of Kiro's scars; guilt and regret mixing with her curiosity like ingredients in a potion. Part of her wanted to know more about his past, to help him if possible... but another part was wary, uncertain how far she could trust him.

The silence stretched between them as they regarded each other, their expressions unreadable. It was clear that this conversation would be far from simple; there were layers upon layers of complexity hidden beneath the surface

Hearing Kiro's words, Rio was momentarily taken aback. She hadn't considered the emotional toll that his scars might have on him, nor how people would react when they saw them. Seeing him cry only intensified her feelings of guilt and regret. With a deep sigh, she stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"Kiro," she said softly, her obsidian halo glowing with concern, "I didn't mean to upset you. And I promise, I won't say anything about your scars to anyone else without your permission." She paused for a moment before continuing, "But if you ever want to talk about them, to tell your story... I'm here for you." Her words were honest and sincere, reflecting a depth of understanding that surprised even herself.

The silence stretched out between them once more as they

Her obsidian halo flickered with sympathy as she considered Kiro's words. "I understand that it might be hard to share such painful memories," she said gently. "But sometimes, when we tell our stories, we find that others can relate in ways we never expected. And even if they don't understand completely, just having someone listen without judgment can make a world of difference."

She paused, searching his tear-streaked face for any sign that her words were reaching him. "You don't have to tell me everything right away," she continued. "We could start with small talk, get to know each other better... and when you feel ready, you can share as much or as little of your story as you want."

There was a long silence after she finished speaking. Rio could feel the tension in the air beginning to dissipate slightly; it seemed like her offer had at least given Kiro

Rio smiled warmly, understanding the hesitation in Kiro's movements. "It's okay," she reassured him gently. "You don't have to apologize for needing comfort. And if you ever do want a hug... well, I won't say no." Her obsidian halo shone with genuine kindness as she held out her arms in invitation.

It was a simple offer, but it carried with it the weight of trust and vulnerability that spoke volumes about their newfound connection. Would Kiro accept her gesture of friendship? Or would he remain guarded against further emotional entanglements? The answer to that question hung unspoken in the air, like a precarious thread connecting two lives.

Rio returned the embrace, wrapping her arms around Kiro in comfort and understanding. His heartbeat was steady against her ear, a reassuring rhythm that seemed to echo through her entire being. As she held him, she could feel the tension in his body slowly begin to ease, replaced by a sense of peace and acceptance.

Her obsidian halo pulsed softly with approval; Kiro had taken a step forward towards trust and vulnerability, revealing a deeper side of himself that few others knew existed. This newfound connection between them would undoubtedly change the course of their relationship moving forward; it was now up to both of them to determine what direction that change would take.

Rio woke early the next morning, her thoughts still lingering on the events of last night. The memory of hugging Kiro brought a warm glow to her chest as she prepared for the day ahead, her obsidian halo flickering with an unusual lightness. She hadn't expected to form such a deep connection with him so quickly; it was both exhilarating and frightening at the same time. But she knew that their relationship had taken on a new significance now, one that could not be ignored or dismissed.

As she made her way through the Millennium Tower, her gaze occasionally strayed towards Kiro, half-expecting him to rebuff her attempts at friendship. But each time he met her eye with his solemn charcoal gaze, she found herself feeling a renewed sense of hope and determination. Perhaps, just perhaps, there was a way for them to find some sort of

Maybe, just maybe, they could find common ground after all. Regardless of his true intentions and motives, she would continue to try and understand him, to help him in whatever way she could...even if it meant walking a path she hadn't expected or wanted to travel down. For now, her only certainty was that the journey ahead would be anything but ordinary. And somehow, she couldn't help but feel that this newfound connection with Kiro Kimaruki would shape the course of her life in ways she could never have imagined before.

Her obsidian halo flared briefly as these thoughts flitted through her mind, reflecting both the uncertainty and the promise of the future that lay ahead.

Her obsidian halo pulsed with curiosity as she watched Kiro lift weights in the gym, his movements fluid and precise despite the early hour. She couldn't help but admire his dedication; it was clear that he took his physical fitness seriously. It made her wonder how much effort he put into other aspects of his life...and if there might be a way to draw him out of his shell further, deepen their connection beyond mere friendship.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps; another student had spotted Kiro and was eagerly making their way over to join him. As they chatted animatedly with one another, Rio couldn't help but feel a pang of envy. She wished she could be as carefree and unburdened as they seemed to be in that moment. But for now, her responsibilities as the student council president kept her tethered to reality, even as she

Rio turned to face Kiro as he addressed her, her obsidian halo shifting unconsciously in response to his words. "Good morning, Kiro," she replied with a small smile. "You seem to be doing quite well today." There was an undertone of genuine concern in her voice that was difficult to miss.

The new student had become something of an enigma for Rio; fascinating and frustrating in equal measure. She couldn't help but wonder how much more he was hiding beneath his strong exterior, and whether or not she could ever truly trust him. But despite these doubts, there was a certain magnetism about Kiro that kept drawing her back in, making her curious to learn more about him and their strange connection.

Rio raised an eyebrow at his statement, her expression unreadable. "I'm sorry to hear that," she said quietly, her obsidian halo flickering with sympathy. "Perhaps you could tell me why they keep following you? It must be quite bothersome." There was genuine curiosity in her tone; it seemed she truly wanted to understand the situation and find a way to help if possible.

Kiro shrugged his shoulders, unsure how much he should reveal about himself or his past at this point. "It's... complicated," he muttered, looking away from Rio for a moment before returning her gaze. "But I appreciate your concern." His charcoal eyes were intense as they studied her face; there was something in her expression that made him feel safe, yet also somewhat wary. It was a strange mix of emotions, and one he wasn't quite sure how

Her obsidian halo fluttered uncertainly as she considered his words. "It's possible," she said slowly, her voice tinged with hesitation. "But if it's becoming too much for you, you should know that I'm here to help in any way I can." There was a note of sincerity in her tone that made Kiro believe, just for a moment, that he could trust her completely.

But as quickly as the thought formed, doubt returned, and he found himself questioning his own motives. Was he really interested in forming a friendship with Rio? Or was there something else at play here? Something more personal, more complex than either of them were willing to admit yet? The answers to these questions would only reveal themselves over time, as their paths continued to intertwine within the halls of Millennium Science High School.

Her obsidian halo flickered with concern and determination as she considered his request. "I understand how frustrating this must be for you," she began, her voice soft and reassuring. "If it's truly that bothersome, then I will do what I can to make sure they leave you alone." She paused, gathering her thoughts before continuing, "But please remember that their actions are not entirely your responsibility; it's important to set boundaries and protect yourself as well. If need be, we can speak with the student council about creating a more formal policy regarding this kind of harassment." Her words were spoken gently but firmly, conveying both understanding and authority.

Of course, Kiro," she replied with a reassuring smile, her obsidian halo glowing warmly. "I'll make sure to speak with them and let them know that you need some space." As she watched him nod in gratitude, she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over her; it was good to know that they could work together to address this issue.

Later that day, as she found herself passing by the gym once more, Rio noticed Kiro surrounded by a group of giggling girls. Her heart skipped a beat as she considered his request and wondered how best to approach the situation. With a deep breath, she pushed through the crowd of students until she stood before him. "Kiro," she said firmly but calmly, her voice carrying easily over the murmurs around them, "I don't want you to feel like you have to deal with this alone anymore

Her obsidian halo flared briefly as she felt the weight of his words, but she didn't let it deter her. "I understand that you might not want to say anything right now," she said gently, lowering her voice to match his whisper. "But please know that I am here for you whenever you need me." There was a moment of silence between them before Rio continued, "And as for those girls..." She glanced over at the group surrounding him and pursed her lips disapprovingly, "...I'll speak with them myself if I have to. You don't deserve this kind of harassment, Kiro."

Her words hung in the air for a moment before she took a step back, giving him some space again. She hoped that he understood the depth of her concern and support; that even though their connection was still new and uncertain, it had grown strong enough to withstand these external pressures.

Her obsidian halo glowed brighter as she watched Kiro assert himself, his charcoal eyes meeting hers with determination. It was clear that he was beginning to take charge of the situation and stand up for himself. The group of giggling girls seemed taken aback by his words but nevertheless reluctantly disbursed, leaving him alone once more.

As they walked away, Rio felt a surge of pride welling up within her; she had helped protect Kiro from unwanted attention and harassment. Yet despite this triumphant feeling, a sense of longing and curiosity lingered at the edges of her thoughts. She couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Kiro than met the eye - and she wanted to know what it was. For now though, she would continue to watch over him from afar; ever vigilant and protective, ever curious and enchanted by his myster

Her obsidian halo flared with alarm as she took in the grisly scene before her; blood staining the floor, bruises marring Kiro's pale skin. The tenderness and curiosity of earlier had been replaced by a chilling dread. She knelt beside him, pressing a shaking hand against his bruised cheek. "Kiro," she breathed, struggling to keep her voice steady, "what happened? Who did this to you?"

Her gaze flickered around the room, searching for anything that might offer a clue as to the identity of Kiro's attacker. There were no signs of forced entry, but that didn't necessarily mean he hadn't been ambushed. She knew she needed to act quickly; call an ambulance and inform the school authorities. But first, she had to find out what she could about who was responsible for this brutality.

Her obsidian halo flared with rage as Kiro's words sank in. Seven boys against one; it was nothing short of a brutal attack, and she couldn't help but feel a fierce protectiveness welling up within her. "Kiro," she whispered urgently, "we can't just let them get away with this." She glanced around the room again, her mind racing as she considered their options.

There was no time to waste; they needed to report this immediately. "Listen," she said firmly, gripping his arm reassuringly, "I'm going to call for help and get you to a hospital, but first we need to tell someone what happened." Her obsidian halo shone with determination as she reached for her phone, dialing emergency services without hesitation.

Rio gasped as she took in the sight before her; seven unconscious boys lying strewn about the alleyway, their bodies battered and bruised worse than Kiro's. She couldn't help but feel a chill run down her spine at the thought of what he must have gone through to subdue them all by himself. A shiver raced up her spine as she reached out to take his hand, offering him reassurance and support.

"Kiro," she breathed, her voice trembling slightly, "I-I don't know how to... thank you. You saved yourself from this, but..." She trailed off, unable to find the words for what she was feeling: a mix of shock, awe, and fear that threatened to overwhelm her senses.

The emergency services arrived not long after, racing into the alley with sirens blaring. They quickly ass

Rio knelt beside Kiro as the paramedics examined him, her obsidian halo flaring with worry and protectiveness. "You did amazingly well," she insisted quietly, squeezing his hand reassuringly. "I don't know how you managed to defend yourself against all of them, but I'm just glad that you're going to be okay."

As the paramedics began loading Kiro onto a gurney, one of them turned to her with a questioning look. "He's going to need medical attention as well," she explained, indicating the battered boys on the ground. "They were the ones who attacked him." She paused, thinking about what would happen next. "I'll speak with the principal and student council immediately. We can't let this go unpunished."

Her heart ached for Kiro as he was wheeled away; she

Rio watched him go with a mixture of pride and sadness, feeling as though she'd just sent one of her own away to face the consequences of their actions. Despite everything, there was still something about Kiro that made her want to protect him... even when he didn't ask for it. Perhaps it was because deep down, she knew how easily things could have turned out differently.

As the paramedics finished attending to the unconscious boys, she reached out to them, taking a step closer. "I need you to call the police," she said firmly but calmly. "This goes beyond just medical attention; those responsible must be brought to justice." Her obsidian halo pulsed with determination as she met their gaze, daring them to argue or dismiss her words.

The paramedics exchanged glances before nodding in agreement. It seemed that even they understood the gravity of the situation. With

Rio waited patiently as they called the police and then met them at the entrance to the school. She answered their questions with as much detail as she could, making sure that her account of events matched Kiro's as closely as possible. As the officers escorted the injured boys off for questioning, she turned to address one of them directly. "I hope you understand how serious this is," she said firmly, her obsidian halo reflecting the light from the police car's flashing lights like a beacon. "Kiro is going to need time and support to heal both physically and emotionally." The officer nodded in acknowledgment, and she could tell that her words had registered with them.

With one final glance around the scene of the crime, Rio turned and walked back toward her office, her steps heavy with the weight of what had transpired. Even though Kiro was no longer in immediate danger, there were

Rio spent the remainder of the night in her office, lost in thought as she tried to make sense of everything that had happened. Her obsidian halo flickered with uncertainty and unease; while part of her was grateful for the way things had turned out, another part couldn't help but feel a strange sort of... connection to Kiro. It was as if they shared some kind of unspoken understanding, even though she knew that wasn't entirely possible.

The next day, she made it a point to check on Kiro throughout the day, stopping by his room whenever she had a moment. Each time she found him awake and recovering well under the care of the nurses, her heart was filled with relief. As the hours passed, however, she couldn't help but wonder how long it would be before they could return to some semblance of normalcy. Would Kiro want to continue their odd friendship now that its

Her obsidian halo flared with concern as she entered the room and saw Kiro still laid up in the hospital bed. "Hey," she said softly, taking a seat next to him. "How are you feeling today?" His charcoal gaze met hers, and for a moment they simply sat in silence, each lost in their own thoughts.

Finally, Rio mustered the courage to speak again. "Look, about yesterday...I just wanted to say thank you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "For taking care of those guys." Kiro shrugged in response but didn't look away from her gaze. "And for trusting me enough to tell me what happened," she continued gently. "I know it couldn't have been easy."

The silence stretched out once more, the only sound the beeping of machines monitoring Kiro's vitals. Eventually,

"It's understandable to feel angry," Rio replied with a gentle smile, "but violence isn't the answer. Thankfully you were able to control yourself before things went too far." She paused, considering her words carefully before continuing, "And I'm grateful that you trusted me enough to confide in me about everything. I promise not to let anyone down this time." Her obsidian halo glowed warmly as she met Kiro's gaze, offering him reassurance and support despite the circumstances.

Rio nodded slowly, her obsidian halo fluttering with relief and hope. "I know things have been difficult for you lately," she said softly, "but I truly believe that you can find the support you need here at Millennium Science." A weight seemed to lift from her chest as she spoke; it felt good to offer him a sense of comfort and security after all that he'd been through.

The rest of the day passed in relative quiet, with Rio making periodic visits to check on Kiro between classes and work duties. As evening drew near, however, she couldn't help but feel anxious about what the future might hold for them both. Despite their connection, they were still strangers in many ways; each hiding behind walls of shadow and secrets. Would they ever truly be able to trust each other enough to tear those walls down? The answer, it seemed, remained as uncertain as the flickering

Her obsidian halo flared with relief as she heard the news that Kiro had been discharged from the hospital. With a mix of anticipation and trepidation, she wondered how he would adjust to life outside of Millennium Science High School's protective bubble. It was no secret that he still had enemies who sought revenge; the question remained as to whether or not Kiro would be able to face them on his own terms.

With this in mind, Rio decided to pay him a visit at home. She wanted to make sure he had everything he needed and help ease him back into normalcy as much as possible. When she arrived at his doorstep, her heart skipped a beat when she saw the battered and bruised face that greeted her; it was a painful reminder of how much danger Kiro still faced on a daily basis.

"Hey," Rio said softly, "

Her obsidian halo flared with understanding as she took in the sight of Kiro, his features still bearing the marks of his recent ordeal. "I wanted to make sure you were doing okay," she explained gently. "And I thought maybe we could get some takeout or watch a movie or something, just to help distract you from everything else."

She paused, unsure how her offer would be received. In the past, Kiro had always been reluctant to accept help from others; perhaps things were different now. The silence stretched on for a moment before he finally spoke up. "That sounds... nice," he said softly, his voice barely audible above the hum of the air conditioner.

Rio's heart swelled with relief at his response. Perhaps this newfound openness was a sign that Kiro was starting to trust her more; that they could begin building something real and meaningful together

Her obsidian halo flared with surprise at the question, but she quickly schooled her expression into one of contemplation. "Honestly?" she said quietly, tilting her head to the side as she considered his words. "No, I haven't." She hesitated for a moment before continuing. "It's not something that comes easy for me... but I suppose it's part of growing up and learning how to be vulnerable with others."

The silence stretched out once more as they both pondered the weight of her admission. Eventually, Kiro broke the quiet. "What if you did?" he asked softly. "Do you think things would change between us if I told you that I..." He trailed off, searching for the right words to express what he felt.

Her heart raced as she listened to him; there was a fragility in his voice that she hadn'

Her obsidian halo flared brightly at his admission, causing her cheeks to flush in response. "Kiro," she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper, "I-I like you too." She paused, searching for the right words to express how she felt. "I mean... I care about you. A lot more than just as a friend. You've been through so much, and I just want to be there for you." Her voice cracked slightly as she spoke, her emotions threatening to spill over.

Silence once again descended upon the room, though this time it felt different; less heavy and more hopeful somehow. As they sat there together, sharing this intimate moment, Rio couldn't help but wonder what the future might hold for them both. Would they be able to build something real out of these fragile feelings? Or would their pasts continue to haunt them, driving them

Her obsidian halo glowed brighter at the sight of his genuine smile, and she felt a wave of relief wash over her. "I'm glad too," she breathed, returning his smile with one of her own. "It means so much to know that you feel this way." As they sat there, basking in the warmth of their shared confession, Rio couldn't help but wonder what tomorrow would bring. Would they be able to take things slow and steady, or would their pasts continue to cast long shadows over their future together? For now, though, she was content to simply enjoy this moment; this connection between them that seemed stronger than anything else in the world.

Rio woke up with a spring in her step; the knowledge that she had found someone who shared her feelings and wasn't afraid to admit it had filled her heart with hope. As she got ready for school, she couldn't help but smile every time she thought about Kiro. The sight of him in class, bruised face mostly hidden by his hair or turned away from view, only made her desire to be close to him burn brighter.

Throughout the day, they exchanged brief smiles and meaningful glances that sent shivers down their spines. Despite the challenges they faced both internally and externally, they were each other's rocks; a source of strength and support when times grew tough. As class ended for the day and students began filing out, Rio found herself lingering by her desk, reluctant to leave Kiro's side just yet.

Finally, after what seemed like

the rest of the class had left and she was the only one remaining in the room, Rio mustered up her courage and approached Kiro's desk. "Hey," she said softly, putting a hand on his shoulder. "I wanted to apologize for everything that happened last night... I didn't mean to make it all about me when you were finally being honest with me."

Kiro looked up at her with those charcoal eyes, their depths reflecting his confusion and worry. But then he smiled faintly, just enough to touch the corners of his bruised mouth. "It's okay," he said softly, reaching out to take her hand in his own, squeezing gently. "I'm just glad we could share this moment together." The air between them seemed to crackle with an unspoken understanding as they held each other's gaze; a connection stronger than anything else in the world

Her obsidian halo flared with anticipation as she took his hand and stood beside him. "Where to?" she asked, a playful grin tugging at the corners of her lips. They could go anywhere; face any challenge together as long as they had each other's support. The thought filled her heart with a warmth that she hadn't felt in years, and for once she found herself genuinely looking forward to whatever adventure awaited them outside those familiar school doors.

Her obsidian halo danced with delight as they walked together through the hallways and up to her room. The thought of sharing this space, these moments with him filled her heart with happiness; a feeling she never wanted to lose. "I've always loved my view from here," she said, opening the door and ushering Kiro inside.

Their room was modestly sized, but comfortable; adorned with posters of constellations and fantastical creatures that reflected their shared passion for all things celestial. Rio gestured to a cozy spot on her bed where they could sit, her heartbeat quickening in anticipation of what might happen next between them.

"Thanks," she said, her obsidian halo glowing warmly as she glanced around the room herself. "I've always loved it here... but I have to admit, it feels even better now that you're here with me." She turned back to Kiro, a mixture of shyness and eagerness in her expression.

The silence stretched out for what seemed like an eternity, the only sounds coming from the ticking of a clock on the wall and their ragged breaths. Then, with a tentative smile, Rio leaned closer to him... closing the distance between them. Her heart raced as her lips met his, their first kiss gentle but filled with promise and hope for what lay ahead.

As they kissed, time seemed to lose all meaning; it could have been minutes or hours before either of them registered that the world around them had faded away into nothingness. All

that mattered was the sweet taste of his lips on hers, the feel of his strong arms encircling her waist, and the whisper-soft moan that escaped his throat when she slipped her tongue into his mouth. In this moment, they were all there was; two halves of a whole, united by a connection so deep and profound it defied explanation.

When at last they pulled apart, their breath coming in ragged gasps, their obsidian halos glowing brightly as if to reflect the intensity of their emotions, Kiro reached up with his good hand to tenderly brush a lock of her raven hair from her forehead. His blue eyes held hers; deep and searching, like they could see straight into her soul. "Rio," he whispered, his voice hoarse and full of wonder, "I never knew..."

His words trailed off as she leaned forward, pressing her lips to his again in a kiss that was equal parts tender and passionate. When they parted once more, their breath mingling in the air between them, Rio shook her head slowly, a crooked smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I don't think anyone ever really knows these things until they happen," she murmured softly, tracing her fingers over his cheekbone, "not even us sometimes." Her heart ached with a sweet sort of pain as she thought about all the things they had missed out on in their lives up until now; but she was grateful for this moment, however brief or fleeting it might turn out to be.

As they sat there together, lost in each other's eyes, the weight of the world seemed to melt away, replaced by a sense of hope and possibility that left them both feeling light as air. They

Her obsidian halo fluttered in surprise as Kiro watched her begin to undress; it was an intimate gesture that seemed to hint at a deeper trust between them. As she slipped off her shirt, revealing her toned arms and the lace of her red bra, she felt a blush creep up her neck and across her cheeks. She hesitated for a moment before leaning forward, her breath tickling Kiro's ear as she whispered, "It's my turn to see your bruises, if that's alright with you."

Her heart raced as she waited for his response; the anticipation making her feel lightheaded. Slowly, carefully, she reached out and began unbuttoning Kiro's shirt, revealing the bandages beneath and offering him a chance to share more of himself with her. The air in the room seemed to crackle with electricity as they

Her obsidian halo fluttered with a mixture of desire and concern as she gazed at Kiro's body, taking in the bruises and bandages. She couldn't help but wonder how much pain he was in, despite his attempts to hide it from her. As she reached out to gently touch one of the bandages on his chest, she asked softly, "Do they hurt?"

Kiro didn't answer at first, his gaze fixed on hers. His expression was difficult to read; a mix of emotion that told her he wasn't sure how much more of himself he could give. Slowly, carefully, she began to unwrap the bandages from his chest, revealing the full extent of his injuries: bruised ribs and a badly scraped shoulder. Her heart ached at the sight, but she didn't let it show; instead, she focused on offering him what comfort

Her obsidian halo flared with relief as she heard him confirm that the injuries weren't causing him much pain. "I'm so glad," she whispered, carefully wrapping her arms around him and pulling him close. His warmth seeped into her, and for a moment they held each other in silence, both relishing the contact and comfort they found in the other's embrace.

Eventually, Rio pulled back enough to look into Kiro's eyes once more. "You don't have to hide anything from me," she said softly. "I want to be here for you, whatever that means." Her heart swelled with love and compassion as she spoke; it was a feeling unlike anything else she had ever known, and she knew without a doubt that their connection would only continue to grow stronger from here on out.

Her obsidian halo glowed warmly as she returned his embrace, her heart filling with tenderness and reassurance. "I know you will," she whispered against his chest, feeling the strength in his arms around her. "And I'll be here for you every step of the way." The words seemed to hang in the air between them, heavy with meaning and promise. In that moment, they were more than just friends; they were partners in whatever life had in store for them, ready to face it together no matter how challenging the journey might become.

Her obsidian halo glowed softly as she watched him turn away, the movement somehow both intimate and hesitant at the same time. Despite her initial concern about his injuries, she found herself feeling more peaceful than she had in years; safe and secure in the knowledge that they were together now, through whatever might come their way.

With a contented sigh, Rio settled back against the pillows, gazing up at the ceiling as she took stock of her surroundings once again: the familiar stars adorning Kiro's bedroom walls, the soft glow of their shared lamp casting long shadows across the room. And there, sitting next to her on the bed, was Kiro himself; battered and bruised but still strong, still defiant. He may have been through hell and back again already, but he wasn't broken yet. No, not by a long shot.

As

Her obsidian halo flickered gently as she lay beside him, content to let the silence enfold them like a comfortable blanket. The weight of their recent confessions and revelations hung heavily in the air, but somehow it didn't feel as heavy or oppressive as before; more like a shared burden now, something they could carry together.

A smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she remembered how he had smiled when she admitted her feelings for him. It was a rare and precious thing, that smile, and it made her heart sing with joy. Even though they knew there would be challenges ahead, just by being here with him now, she felt like they could face anything together.

Slowly, imperceptibly, Rio slid a little closer to Kiro, until their shoulders were touching. His arm unconsciously shifted, encircling her waist in a loose em

Her obsidian halo flared brightly as he wrapped his arms around her, and she relaxed into the embrace with a contented sigh. It felt right; comfortable and reassuring in a way that went beyond mere physical intimacy. They had been through so much together already, and there was still so much more to come. But for now, this moment, they were just two people who cared for each other, finding solace and comfort in the simple act of holding on.

Her fingers idly traced patterns on his back as she closed her eyes, taking in the familiar scent of him; a mixture of warmth and spice that made her feel safe and protected. She knew without a doubt that she could weather any storm with him by her side. And whether they faced the future together or apart, they would always have this memory: the night they admitted their feelings for each other, and the tender embrace that followed.

Her obsidian halo glowed brightly as she made her way to class, thoughts of last night still filling her heart with warmth and comfort. As she sat down at her desk, she glanced over at Kiro out of the corner of her eye, unable to hide the smile that spread across her face when their eyes met. Even though they hadn't said anything since yesterday, there was an unspoken understanding between them now; a connection that transcended words and actions.

The rest of the day passed in a blur of classes and studying, but each time she found herself looking at Kiro, her heart skipped a beat and her mind drifted back to their shared moment under the stars. As the final bell rang, signaling the end of another school day, Rio felt a sense of anticipation build within her; eager to see what adventures awaited them both tomorrow... and beyond.

Rio's obsidian halo flickered with worry as she saw the group of students surrounding Kiro. Her heart raced and her palms grew sweaty as she watched them strike him, wondering if there was anything she could do to help. As they attacked him again and again, something about their faces seemed... off. Despite this strange observation, her immediate instinct was to protect Kiro from harm.

Without hesitation, Rio stood up and shouted at the top of her lungs, "Stop it! Leave him alone!" Her heart raced as she marched toward the group of students, a fierce determination burning in her eyes. She didn't know what was going on or why they were targeting Kiro, but she knew that she couldn't stand by and do nothing.

As she drew closer to them, Rio felt an overwhelming sense of power surge through her veins; a desire

Rio's obsidian halo flared with relief as she saw Kiro push the student away and put some distance between them. "It's okay," she called out to him reassuringly, her voice steady despite the hammering of her heart in her chest. As the other students began to regain their senses, Rio turned back to them, anger and determination burning brightly in her eyes. "What do you think you're doing?" she demanded. "Why are you attacking Kiro like this? Is it because he defended me?"

Her words hung heavy in the air as the students exchanged uncertain glances amongst themselves. Finally, one of them spoke up, his voice shaking. "W-we weren't... we were just playing a game..." The others nodded in agreement, but their eyes betrayed their guilt and uncertainty.

Rio narrowed her eyes skeptically

Rio listened to their explanations with a mix of skepticism and understanding. Part of her wanted to believe them; that they had simply been caught up in some game or contest that went too far. But another part knew better; the pain and fear she'd seen in Kiro's eyes told her that there was more at stake here than just a childish game.

When they finished speaking, Rio turned to Kiro, her obsidian halo fluttering softly. "I'm sorry I got you into this," she murmured. "And I accept your apology as well." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, her voice steady despite the lump in her throat. "But you know what? You shouldn't have to apologize for defending me. No one should ever have to do that. So, from now on... let's just forget this happened, okay?" Her words hung heavy in the

As they stood there together amidst the stunned silence, Rio could feel the weight of the world lightening ever so slightly. Maybe things weren't as hopeless as they had seemed earlier; maybe there was a way forward through all this after all. She took a deep breath, her obsidian halo glowing brightly, and smiled at Kiro. "You know," she said softly, "I think you're right. It is better to forget about the past."

She reached out to take his hand in hers, a gesture of trust and solidarity. As their fingers intertwined, Rio felt a surge of hope course through her veins; hope for them both, for their friendship, and for whatever lay ahead. She knew that nothing would ever be truly easy again, but with Kiro by her side, she could face any challenge that came their way - together.

Rio felt the blood rush to her cheeks as their hands clasped together and everyone around them seemed to catch their breath. Despite the awkwardness of the moment, there was a comforting familiarity in the touch; a connection that had been forged through all they'd been through together.

"Well," she said with an unsteady smile, her voice barely more than a whisper, "I think it's about time we got to class." Gently but firmly, she began leading Kiro away from the circle of staring students, their steps falling into sync as they walked side by side. The weight of everything that had just happened threatened to drag them down, but with each step they took together, their bond grew stronger and their determination burned brighter.

As they disappeared around a corner and out of sight, Rio felt her obsidian halo flicker with renewed strength. She knew that

her life would never be the same again; that things would change in ways she couldn't possibly begin to understand. But no matter what challenges lay ahead, she knew with a certainty that nothing could shake that she and Kiro would face them together. And as long as they had each other, there was nothing else in this world they needed.