What makes a Rose...

Set: The whole story is placed at Lillian's, and surroundings,

Main Characters: All Maria Sama Ga Miteru 's ones. An UTTERLY NEW Rose family. This family is named Rosa Yeskaoda (an anagram of mine and we will be using the color black for it).

Time Line: Here we wont go to the "only 3 years" not sure of how many (from 4 to 6), but we start with the year in which Yumi enters Lillian's.

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So the Rose cast is like this:

White: S. Rosa Gigantea (Izumi), Sei, Shimako, -

Red: S. Rosa Chinesis (Hoshino), Youko, Sachiko, -

Yellow: S. Rosa Foetida (Nanashi), Eriko, Rei, Yoshino

Black: S. Rosa Yeskaoda (Aneko), Mariko, -, -

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Main Pairing: Pretty much a whole big mix, but basics I guess would be:

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Red Rose Family:

S. Rosa Chinesis (Hoshino) / Youko (slightly)

Youko / Sachiko

Sachiko / Yumi

White Rose Family:

Super Rosa Gigantea (Izumi) / Sei

Sei / Shimako

Shimako /Noriko

Yellow Rose Family:

Super Rosa Foetida (Nanashi ) / Eriko

Eriko / Rei

Eriko / Yoshino

Rei / Yoshino

Black Rose:

S. Rosa Yeskaoda (Aneko ) / Mariko

Mariko / Saky

Saky / BnT (ばら色の種)

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More notes at the end of this chapter.

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THIS FIC IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING FIXED/REWRITEN TO FIX VARIOUS ERRORS. STILL NEW CHAPTERS ARE BEING ADDED IN THE PROCESS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE AND SUPPORT.

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Chapter One:

Lillian's catholic school for girls: An institute for Ladies.

The ladies that gather in The Virgin Mary's garden have heavenly smiles that even today, overcome the great fence. Their pure bodies and minds are wrapped in dark uniforms; the crinkles in their skirts mustn't be noticed. Their white sailor collars must be always clean and tight. Here slow walking is preferred.

At this school there is a Student Council which is referred as The Yamayurikai, and it is conformed by 4 Roses: Yeskaoda (The black rose), Chinesis (Red), Gigantea (White) and Foetida (Yellow), the roses take in petite sœurs which are referred as "Rosa - en Bouton".

The sœur system is not exclusive for the roses of course, every student has the right to have a sœur, and these relationships are sealed with a sacred private ceremony in which the Grande sœur gives her rosary to her petite sœur.

At Lillian's the Roses are deeply respected and not so secretly adored as they are the Institute's best and brightest. And the way the council works is mostly a democracy. When one is someone's petite sœur, the natural way to call that person is "Onee-sama". Everyone at this school refers to the roses as "Onee-samas" in a respectful way. And every rose has the right and obligation to look after her family, her line of roses. However the Yeskaoda family has the obligation not only to look after it self but the others. Which makes every rose to call them "Onee-sama" as well.

At this moment what we know about these exceptional girls is this: Our Hoshino (Rosa Chinesis) is a very refined and elegant young lady, which has mastered the fine art of listening and calculating ahead. She is quite an AS when it comes to logical outcomes. With her Bouton Youko, who is but a perfect match. Equally elegant, calculating, and slightly lady like mischievous. Youko has met her own petite sœur last year, Sachiko, a black haired lady, with good grades, unstained manners and exceptionally good family, with so far, only one foul: her temper.

Next to her we have Nanashi (Rosa Foetida), a well breed, and educated lady, with just the right amount of arrogance to be able to handle just about any quandary. Her Bouton is Eriko, who is known for always having the best notes, and most indifferent "mysterious" look, with a craving for the unusual. Eriko stalked her own petite sœur before making a decision, and finally came to ask Rei, a young kendo practitioner, with a tomboyish look, and a kind heart.

On a different ground is Izumi (Rosa Gigantea) that while deeply involved with the council and it's members, still has the ability to liberate her self from any student related issue, seem like she doesn't care (sometimes actually not caring), and yet be able to be there for her dear friends in just about every right time and place. And obvious Bouton is Sei, an astonishing western looking girl, with many of her Onee-sama's qualities and defects, but probably an even greater heart. And an unusual drawn towards witty answers and smirks. Sei has not yet found a good match for her among the students, due to a personal tragedy last year.

And last but not least, there is Aneko (Rosa Yeskaoda), who as appeasable and well mannered as she might be, has never (and odds are never will) changed her mind when made. She will put just about everything up for discussion, and cheer for dialogue, except for 2 matters in which no one does ever gets a saying: discipline, and her own already made choices. With the most matching Bouton, Mariko, an extremely disciplined young lady, intelligent, controlled and self-exigent to the bare, who as Sei, has not yet found a worthy heir for the Yeskaoda family.

This year, more girls have arrived to Lillian's, and so, the story unfolds.

Sitting at the table are both Aneko and Mariko, drinking a cup of tea as they watch without much interest reflected on their faces, how once again Youko "talks" with Sei about finally getting a sœur. Afraid the Gigantea line will end with her due to her lack of discipline and will.

"Yes Youko, to you *everything* has to be about discipline and will, can't you just for once think with anything that isn't your left sided brain?"

"Good one, I didn't know Sei was good in biology, Onee-sama" Said Mariko in a very low voice.

"Well, someone has to actually *think* here, and not just go with the flow of an unbalanced burst of laziness and lack f interest, and that's obviously isn't you Sei"

"There goes Youko back in, less witty, though" Said Mariko sipping her cup.

"Look, if you are just trying to find someone to let you PMS with, go ahead and try it on Mariko-sama, because I've had it with you, I don't *have* to find a sœur, only because *you* the mighty all sœur-ed up Youko has chosen to nag me day and night"

Mariko turns to her Onee-sama with her eyes on lines (|¬,¬|) "Why should she always put me as an excuse to end such chats, Onee-sama?"

"Well, you *are* her Onee-sama, so it's only fair that she follows you lead, not that she does anyway, but truth be told, until you get a sœur, and I'm not saying you must, she will be able to say so" Says Aneko with a calm voice and a little smile.

"Don't get Onee-sama on this, she has *good* reasons not to have done so yet, you on the other hand, just avoid the subject and pretend it isn't there"

"Of course she has good reasons, and so do I, you are just pissed that I wont tell you Youko"

"Language" Says Aneko in a fairly audible voice

"Gomen Onee-sama, I'm leaving now... Gokigenyou"

"Gokigenyou" Say both Aneko and Mariko.

"Fine, go then," Says a very frustrated Youko.

Aneko stands and gets close to Youko "You now better than to say that Youko, I expect you to mind you manners, even if angry"

"Gomenasai Onee-sama, I just get so frustrated with her attitude..."

"I understand, Youko, and because of you link with her I allow you to talk to her the way you do, but notice that it isn't proper for you to tell her how to run her own family, there might come a day in which you might regret it"

"You are right Onee-sama, I just worry... mostly about her, and not her family, when Izumi-sama graduates, she will feel terribly lonely, and I just want her not to get hurt"

Aneko placed a hand on Youko's shoulder and said "Of course, but hurting her now, so that she doesn't get hurt later isn't really a good idea"

"Can men force rain to purr? Seours arrive at time, Youko, remember that" Said Mariko.

"Forgive me, Onee-sama, I did not mean to refer to you, nor your decision as equal to Sei at any moment" Said Youko vowing her head forwards, and staying like that for a moment expecting an answer from Mariko.

"You did not offend me, Youko, be at ease, to tell the truth is in no way wrong, and I do comprehend your motives." Mariko spoke in utter calm, giving Youko a reassuring feeling, so she finally lifted her head, with a smooth smile, only to encounter Mariko turning her head away with a truly sad expression.

"Try not to worry Youko" Said Aneko while striking her hair softly, "And for the time being, a good idea would be not to miss your classes" she finished.

Youko took a glimpse at her wrist and vowed them both "Gokigenyou". They answered equally to her, and so she went out.

Mariko stood up, to go to class half-minded, and she was stopped by Aneko's hand on her arm. "You don't need to feel pressure, I am glad to have you as my sœur, and feel proud about you not giving you principals up even when pushed. You shall find your own sœur on time; you are wise to think so. That was the way I found you, and I will be happy if your sœur makes you even half as happy and proud as you make me, day after day, Mariko" When Mariko turned her face towards her Onee-sama, she felt truly touched as she knew her words were true from both the look in her eyes, and the fact that her Onee-sama would never lie.

"Thank you Onee-sama, I wish not to let you down... If you ask me to, I will take upon any girl of your choosing as my sœur"

"I know you will Mariko" this wasn't the first time the girl had said this, but Aneko didn't want her sœur to be just someone right for the place, or the Yeskaoda family, she wanted for Mariko to have the special bond sœurs have, and if that meant to have to let discipline around the subject a little loose, it was a short price to pay. "But I rather see you do it by your self. I'm sure you will find one on your own, you are perfectly capable of it."

"Thank you for trusting me so much Onee-sama"

Aneko let go of Mariko's arm and said "Gokigenyou" with a smile. As much as she would have preferred to be with her little sœur longer, she did thought missing class what a dreadful idea. She got a "Gokigenyou" I return, and so her sœur was gone. She was left to think.

Lunch hour had come on, and Mariko didn't feel up for going to the Rose Manor (Bara no Yakata), and even though skipping it was absolutely beneath her. Not being early, that she could do, so in stead of going straight to the Manor at the bell's sound, she took a little time and went trough the school's cafeteria to see what "normal" students looked like at this time. She flew her sight slowly from one side to the other, without much interest, until suddenly she was overwhelmed with the most interesting thing she had seen in... She couldn't even remember how long.

It was a girl, long red hair resting in her back and shoulders, white skin... so white... green deep eyes... Eating with the most perfect lady like manners, watching outside the big window, somehow even though she seemed nostalgic, and felt out placed, the view of her alone was at once heart braking and extremely attractive... "Unique" was the only thing Mariko could think, and said it out loud without meaning to.

"Gokigenyou Onee-sama" said a voice next to her. Without getting an answer, after a few seconds, the voice said "Onee-sama?"

"Eh?" she slowly turned her face from the vision to encounter Rei's face, and so she regain composure, as she remember having answered in very un-lady like manner, she rephrased her self "Gokigenyou Rei-san"

"Gokigenyou Onee-sama"

"Rei-san, do you know this girl?" She said turning back her sight to the vision, only to realize that surprisingly enough she wasn't the only girl in the cafeteria, but was the only one in an empty table. So she pointed for Rei to see the table.

"Yes, Onee-sama, she is the sensation of the moment, she was admitted here 1 year younger than anyone else, apparently she's gifted somehow, it's said that she could have gone straight to collage but decided to enter here instead." Rei had a puzzled face

"So she is special..." Was all that Mariko said, before walking up to the girl in question and asking straight without thinking the meaning of her words. "Gokigenyou. May I to join you for lunch?"

"Gokigenyou" said the girl looking at her, and without any hesitation pointed a seat across her and added, "Please do". Mariko sat down, took her bento box out and placed it in the table.

The girl closed the book she had been meaning to read up until Mariko showed up and placed it on the table. "My name is Raznie Saky," said the girl looking at Mariko with a smile. "Pleased to meet you Raznie Saky-san, my name is Tsaphero Mariko". After this, they said no more to each other, and ate their lunches.

At the same time in the Rose Manor, Rei sat down with and even more puzzled look, she had never seen Mariko-sama act like that, she didn't even say good-bye, that wasn't like her to do, as she was so well mannered.

Eriko realized her face, and had no choice but to ask "Rei-san, are you ok?"

"Eh? ... Yeah Onee-sama, thank you... I just... I..." She trailed off.

"What happened, is everything alright at home, Rei-san?" This time Eriko's question was filled with concernment.

"Yes, Onee-sama... I was just... It's probably nothing..." said looking further puzzled

Aneko opened the door, and looked at the scene for a second, Rei was sitting on the left side of the table, close to the window, with a very confused look, next to her was Eriko apparently worried about something that had happened to Rei, and everyone else's attention was on the girl as well, both Youko and Sei, who apparently had been arguing some more, were now quiet looking at Rei, trying to decide whether to be worried or not. After her, came Hoshino, Nanashi, and Izumi, who stood startled as her self, then regaining a bit of composure, she moved, seated down in her usual chair, inviting the others to do the same, and only then, did she noticed that for the first time since she had taken her to the Rose Manor, Mariko wasn't there before the roses.

"Is something the matter, Rei-chan?" said Nanashi with a bit of a concerned tone.

"It's nothing Onee-sama..." And before anyone else got to ask something, Rei added looking at Aneko "Onee-sama, when was the last time you saw Mariko-sama walk away without saying "Gokigenyou"?"

"I haven't ever seen her be that rude, Rei-chan, why?" asked Aneko

"I was just... wondering"

Aneko got the hint, so she quickly changed the subject by asking a very interested Youko to make some tea, and just as quickly asked for Sei to help her, anticipating questions from her as well. The others returned to the chat they had been having before, about the upcoming ceremony to welcome the new students.

At the end of lunch, they both stood up, and it was Raznie the first to speak "It's been a pleasure, Tsaphero-san, thank you"

"My pleasure, Raznie-san, would you like for this to happen again tomorrow?"

"Of course, thank you, Gok..." she was interrupted by Mariko's voice.

"Then would you please be kind enough to meet me in front of Maria Sama, at the lunch bell tomorrow?"

Saky smiled "As you please, Tsaphero-san"

Mariko loved that smile, so refined, yet so childish and tender. But just said "Thank you, Gokigenyou"

"Gokigenyou"

At the end of lunch, everyone stood up, except for Aneko, who waited until then, to ask Rei to stay, and then both said good bye to everyone and when they were finally alone, Aneko said "Rei-chan, I would like for you to explain to me what is it that happened with you and Mariko today"

"It was nothing, Onee-sama, truly, please ignore my immature ways" Rei had been a part of the Yamayurikai long enough to know that Aneko-sama would not stand for rudeness, and was rumored that whenever she thought it was truly necessary, she would rise the ruler on those who had committed a foul, without hesitation. Even though she had never actually seen her do it, she had however seen her stay with someone after a meeting and that someone sometimes would rub her hands on an unusual way. And even though she wasn't quite new to such situations, having gone trough similar situations at home, as most girls, she wasn't so fond of it either. And was not about to rattle her friend out either.

"I'm not concerned with the rudeness, Rei-chan, I'm more curious about what caused it" She said in a loving tone, as she understood what Rei was thinking... Of course she would rectify wrong ways, but it wasn't like her sœur did something of the matter that often, so it had to be something extremely special what had made her just walk away.

"Oh... Well, it's really nothing, Onee-sama, I my self don't understand it"

"So tell me exactly what happened, Rei-chan, and we can try to make sense of it"

"Well, I was in my way here from the professor's launch and while I walked I heard Mariko-sama's voice outside of the student's cafeteria watching something inside, I greeted her, and she didn't seem to noticed, she was a bit distracted, and when I called her again, she greeted me back and asked who a girl was, I told her what I knew about her and she just walked inside... she said something like "so she is special" and I was going to call her back, but by the time I thought of it, she was already talking to the girl and I had to get here or I would be late, so I left..."

"I see... and who was this "girl" Rei-chan?"

"Oh, she is a first year student, Onee-sama, she is somewhat a star, many people are talking about her because apparently she is gifted and could have gone straight to collage, or get into any school she wanted, but in stead she decided to get in here, she only skipped one year, and of course, there's the fact that she is the only one with red hair in the whole school. She already got into a couple of clubs, but hasn't yet done much, as we are just starting the year. I do know that her own class mates refer to her as "sama", though..."

"I see... do you know anything about her family?"

"No Onee-sama, I had never heard her last name before, and I don't think it's Japanese"

"Which is it?"

"Rashike, or something of the sort..." Tries to think hard, and finally says, "I really don't remember, Onee-sama, but I can try on finding out"

"Please do, Rei-chan, do you know anything else about her?"

"Well, she did have particularly good manners, she had her bento box out, and was eating with a very nice fork, not a plastic one..."

"I see... well thank you very much, Rei-chan, I'd appreciate it if you didn't talk about our little chat for a while, as I need a few more pieces of information."

"Hai Onee-sama" and so she stood up.

"Gokigenyou"

"Gokigenyou Onee-sama"

Mariko was alone in her room, had just finished homework and suddenly she finds her self thinking about Saky, how her hair was so long and shiny, how it didn't get in her face, even once, how she had offered her, Mariko, to try some of her lunch, and she that never would do something so ill mannered, had said yes, and even pushed her head a little inviting Saky to feed her... When thinking this she blushed, but remembered just how nice Saky's smile was, and how she actually did feed her, so carefully that she had thought she probably had done it before. And the food most have been really good... But she really didn't realize she had just enjoyed Saky's actions, she had even touched her when she feed her, she held her chin a little...

She just couldn't stop thinking about her, through class and the way home, she had been trailing off to her image on her mind quite a few times, she almost said her name at class when asked about binary systems... Yes, that had been fun... Fun? Since when is being stupid fun? ... she wanted to scold her self for it, but couldn't really do it, it had been but a little mistake... and didn't happen after all... But what if it had? ... Maria-sama! ... And just like that a high tone noise got her off her thinking, and as she had been balancing in her chair, she fell down, right in her rare.

Annoyed and hurt, she gets up and finally snaps out of it, realizing it's the phone ringing; she goes and picks it up. "Gokigenyou, Tsaphero Residence"

"Gokigenyou, Mariko"

"O-Onee-sama.." Only then did she realize she hadn't been to the meting, nor had she made it at lunch, and didn't even ask for permission from Onee-sama... Now she was in trouble... She must be... And she deserved it too she had been so selfish and irresponsible. The silence went on just a couple of seconds, until she finally said "G-Gomenasai O-Onee-sama... I..."

"It's ok, Mariko, would you like to explain to me why didn't I have my sœur with me today?"

"O-Onee-sama... I... She... We...Eh..."

"Yes? Who is "she" Mariko? Are you ok?"

"Oh, oh yes, Onee-sama, arigato, I... I just forgot... Gomenasai"

"You forgot?" a bit what Mariko thought was anger shone in her voice

"Y-yes Onee-sama, I'm very sorry... it wont happen again... I promise..."

"And what exactly were you doing when you "forgot" Mariko-san?"

Ok, *now* I'm in trouble, she never calls me "san" unless I am... Well, what can I do? I can't blame her, she has every right to be angry at me, I should at least have let her know, ask for permission, she wouldn't say no... I'm so stupid sometimes; I even amaze my self...

"Fine, if you don't want to answer, don't, I'll see you tomorrow, be on time"

"O-Onee-sama..." she hadn't realized she wasn't speaking, and didn't mean to leave her waiting... now she had just made it worse.

"Gokigenyou"

"Gokigenyou, Onee-sama..." She said without much conviction, but she knew that keeping her on the phone would only add to her fouls, so better just leave it... After this, they hung up, and she just went to sit on her bed, feeling half like crap, half the happiest... it was quite the quandary to decide which one was greater, but having them both sure was confusing, so she decided she would be happy, and then, when that was over, she would be crappy and think about what would happen tomorrow with her Onee-sama.

Almost everything went according to plan, she did feel very very happy, even a bit girlish for it, but didn't really care. Bad thing was she had fallen sleep before feeling crappy and thinking about the next day with her Onee-sama, which was bad because now she was walking to Maria-sama and had no idea of what might happen, therefore she wasn't prepared... she hated not being prepared for things...

Finally about 10 minutes after, she found herself outside of the brown door in the first floor of the Rose Manor. She instinctively held her hands together, and then opened the door.

Aneko was standing right in the middle of the room, she wasn't happy, but didn't seem angry either... though this didn't say much to Mariko, at least she knew there weren't any hard feelings. So she was the first to speak "Gokigenyou Onee-sama"

"Gokigenyou Mariko" Good, back to first name basis, thought Mariko.

"Onee-sama... I wanted to apologize for missing yesterday's meeting." Then she bowed her head while saying "Gomenasai"

"It's ok, Mariko, as I told you yesterday, I merely want to know the reason for this, than even mind the fact it self"

"I got distracted, Onee-sama, I was selfish and careless, and I would understand if you wish to punish me for such childish behavior."

"Alright, Mariko if you wish to keep eluding my question, you may have it your way. I will however ask you to defer your self from the Manor for the rest of the day."

"Onee-sama I..." she was interrupted

"Gokigenyou, Mariko-san"

"G-Gokigenyou... Onee-sama" she said truly sad, she would have preferred for Aneko to have used the ruler, than this... she just couldn't bare her Onee-sama's indifference... she was much too important, but now, there was little she could do, but to follow the command she was given and hope for a way to make it up to her later on.

The lunch bell rang and Mariko left her class room, it wouldn't have been good to be seen there during lunch, everyone knew she was at the manor every day, however not being able to attend to it, she walked aimlessly around campus, all she could think about was her Onee-sama, she hadn't meant for this to happen, but for some reason she didn't want to tell her about Saky, not yet... she wondered why not, and got no answer, it was as if Saky was something special, and she didn't want to share it with the rest of the world... then suddenly she saw 2 figures in front of Maria-sama, she couldn't tell who they were, but her stomach got fuzzy, she kept walking to see who these girls were, and suddenly, one of them went the other way, leaving just one.

She then wondered what had just happened, and tried to make something out of the sight of the one leaving... however she was unexpectedly stopped by a voice "Gokigenyou Tsaphero-san" she didn't recognize it at first, but those butterflies in her belly couldn't lie...

She turned to the right and said "Gokigenyou Raznie-san". Everything she was thinking up until then flew away. The sight was perfect, the green grass, Maria-sama, and Saky before it all... she couldn't believe it. So it was Saky who took control, once again. "Tsaphero-san, was there a reason why you picked this spot? It's delightful..." Saky spoke looking around with a smile.

"I thought you may like it, and there's a bench close by that not much people use, so we could have lunch there, if that's ok"

"I'd love to" and so they walked to it, once they were sitting down, Mariko got a chance to see Saky get her lunch out and place it on a fabric napkin above her lap. She couldn't have imagined that there would be a girl as well mannered as her self, (maybe even better) yet, so natural... She had always thought that she looked a bit rough... But this girl... she was delicate, she looked like someone you just want to look after, but doesn't need you to...

"Tsaphero-san, are you not hungry?" she wondered why had Saky said that, and only then realized she had got her lunch out but hadn't taken a single bite from it. "Oh, sorry Raznie-san, I was only thinking..." she said taking a small bite, not quite for hunger, but because she wished to appear normal and not like some weird staring girl. And so once the food had left her mouth, she added "I'd like it if you could call me by my name..." Saky turned to her and smiled "Very well, then Mariko-san..." she let out a soft laugh to add, "I like the way your name flows, it's very nice... And please, use my name as well".

So well mannered, she thought, "Thank you, Saky-san" and as these words left her lips, she felt so right, and looked straight ahead... she called her Saky... Saky-san... that had to be a good start, after having met her just yesterday... how can one feel so comfortable with someone you just met the day before?. But truth be served she had felt just as good yesterday, so there wasn't much of an answer.

They spent lunch talking about themselves just barely, Mariko now knew that Saky-san *was* indeed gifted, as she had been able to choose from the top 8 schools in all Japan, but had chosen this particular one because of the sœur system and someone she knew from here. Mariko didn't know who that someone was and didn't think about it until later on, she meant to ask who the girl with her earlier was, but didn't, as she had come to a conclusion. She had to ask this particular girl to be her sœur, she had found her perfect match. That was the only possible reason as to why she hadn't felt sad at all being with her, or upset, or even awkward, she hadn't felt that pressure she felt all the time to be at her best, she had simply flown with her, and she was happy... However she couldn't very well ask her to be her sœur out of the blue, and even before the welcoming ceremony. So she decided to wait, only until then, she would ask her the same day...

And in the mean time, a lunch date wouldn't hurt, so at the end of the hour, she asked Saky to repeat the situation once again if she didn't have anything to do. To which Saky agreed. After all, she *was* glad to have someone to have lunch with. Not that she minded being the outcast, she had got used to it after all this time, but Mariko-san was by far the nicest company she could have asked for, and seemed to find her normal, unlike the others.

The next day, Mariko wasn't sure whether to show up to the manor or not, but did so anyway. She went at the lunch hour to do her cleaning duties, and excused her self after having done so. She then went to the bench near Maria-sama to encounter Saky-san who was just then being talked to by 2 first year students. And so she over heard them.

"Oh, see, I'll challenge you too, how dare you cross my path? I'm the all mighty Tomo! And as I'll defeat Sakaky-san I'll defeat you too, mark my words!" the girl seemed very enthusiastic, she had short black hair, white skin and big eyes, and while saying this she even raised an arm to the sky. Though Mariko wondered whether she meant what she said...

Saky looked at the girl with a serious and slightly wondering face, and said "Ok Tomo-chan"

"I'm sorry about her, please forgive her, she is such a jerk sometimes, my name is..." the black haired girl interrupted.

"She's Yomi, and she shouldn't be messing with my challenging, she is just such a big chicken, and a chubby one as well" she said the last words while picking on "Yomi's" belly. Which the girl didn't seem to like, because she started hitting "Tomo-chan" on the head.

"Pleased to meet you, Tomo-chan, Yomi-chan. My name..." again "Tomo" interrupted.

"You are Raznie-sama, everyone knows it!" she said with a "that's so obvious" tone.

"We need to go, Raznie-sama, I apologize again for this behavior, and we'll see you later." Said Yomi taking Tomo by the back of her neck and pulling her away. Tomo was still bluffing out loud about defeating her, as she was dragged away.

This is when Mariko finally reached the bench, and she was somewhat amazed to listen to the whole thing, but mostly because the girl had called her "Raznie-sama"...

"Gokigenyou" Mariko greeted

"Gokigenyou, Mariko-san" After the scene, Saky seemed somewhat sad, but had smiled at Mariko's presence.

Mariko was somewhat panicking over the fact that she realized she hadn't even made sure Saky was indeed a first year student, and she already wanted to ask her to be her petite sœur today. Mariko sat next to Saky, unconsciously took her lunch out, while absorbed in her thoughts, looking straight ahead. Saky noticed her friend and asked in a worried tone "Is everything ok, Mariko-san?" Mariko thought the question over for a second, and responded "Saky-san... do you have an Onee-sama?" Saky smiled and answered "I don't, Mariko-san, and to be truthful I don't believe I'll get one..." the last sentence had a bit of sadness on it. Which only helped Mariko get even more worried.

"Oh, Mariko-san, please don't act so surprised, I indeed got in the school because of the sœur system, but I doubt anyone will take me as their sœur... Not that I was expecting them to... Honestly it makes me happy enough to see others enjoy such bliss"

"Oh..." Mariko got it right away, but still needed some confirming so she asked "But you *are* a first grade student, right?"

"Yes, why do you ask, Mariko-san?

"Well, I might have misheard, but I thought those girls that were here with you were first year students, and they called you "Raznie-sama", and it's not usual for girls that are on the same year to do something like that..."

"I know, everyone always calls me that... Even those who seem to not be able to care less about respect, such as Tomo-chan..." this time the sadness was so real in her eyes, Mariko had to fight a great deal to be able not to take her in her arms right then, instead she said "Well, you *are* quite special, I can see why they feel the need to show you respect, and I'm glad I can call you Saky-san"

A smile appeared on Saky's face as she turned to face Mariko. "Me too, Mariko-san"

Then she seemed to think a little and then asked. "Do you have an Onee-sama?"

Mariko looked both happy and crushed at the question, she did have one, and she loved her deeply, but... the situation right now was far from the best, so she answered, "Yes, I do... And... that's something I wanted to talk to you about today." She said looking a bit insecure (which was pretty unusual for her)

"I'd love it if you shared a little about her, please" Saky had a nice warm smile.

"Oh..." Mariko blushed a little, she knew she was acting childish, but didn't really care about it. It felt good to be a child sometimes. "Well, she is very nice to me, she's strong and always there when needed, many people look up to her, and ever since she took me, she has been very protective of me, even though she takes care of many people, not once has she left me alone. She is wonderful really, even though some say she might be too strict, the truth is that she is only fair. And as long as I've known her she hasn't once been irresponsible or selfish..." she trailed of.

"She sounds like a wonderful Onee-sama, Mariko-san, really"

"I'm glad you think so... She really is." Mariko took a deep breath and carried on "See, Saky-san, the welcoming ceremony is today, and so after today, many girls will be asked to be sœurs. And though many already have been asked, it will become "real" after today. You know?"

"Yes, today we meet the student council, the Yamayurikai."

"Yes, well you see... I wanted to ask you... Saky-san would you like to be my petite sœur? I know we have only known each other very little time, but I sincerely think we are right for each other..."

"Mariko-san...I... " Saky seemed shocked for a couple of seconds, but carried a calm face right after.

"You don't have to say yes, honestly... I'd understand if you didn't want to, or if you preferred to wait for someone else... Plus, even if you said yes, I'd have to introduce you to Aneko-sama before we could make it official... Which would probably mean a lot of unnecessary work for you..." Mariko stated rather rapidly.

Saky smiled, placed a hand on Mariko's shoulder to calm her, and then answered looking at her right in the eye "I'd be honored, Mariko-san".

Now it was Mariko's turn to be astounded. Had she said yes? Did she? She couldn't have... Really... Had she? ... Judging by her smile, there was no doubt... she had indeed said yes... Mariko now had a sœur... The best sœur she could have hoped for, and she just couldn't believe it. However there still was a rather important thing to take care of. She had to introduce her to Aneko-sama and hope for her acceptance... And the way things were...

Then again, she couldn't very well wait a lot before doing so, the more she waited the worse, and there was also the matter of, after choosing her as her petite sœur, she also had to introduce her to the rest of the Yamayurikai... now *this* was complicated. But: one step at a time.

Without realizing she had hugged Saky, and was now in her arms. This made it all better, there wasn't anything hard enough to make her not enjoy this moment. So once they spread, Mariko spoke "Saky-san, I believe it would be best if you meet Aneko-sama today, before the ceremony, as after it, there will be some more people for you to meet officially."

"When can I meet her?"

"I'd say now is as good time as any."

"Very well then, shall we?"

So they stood up and walked together, Saky had no idea as to where they were going, but she trusted Mariko, so she merely followed her. And so they arrived to something that seemed to be a quiet place, a house inside the school. Mariko opened the door and asked her to go in with her. She did. Once inside they went up the stairs, and into a door. Silence was overwhelming. There was only one girl, drinking tea in her seat.

"Gokigenyou Onee-sama" So this was her Onee-sama, Saky thought... She was quite a nice lady.

"Gokigenyou, Mariko-san. I wasn't expecting to see you now. Not until the ceremony, anyway"

"I'm sorry, Onee-sama, but I felt like I should explain my behavior, and also, introduce you to someone." After saying this, she turned to Saky and commanded, "Introduce yourself"

"Hai... Gokigenyou. I'm a first year student, my name is Raznie Saky." She stated with a soft bow.

By the way she introduced herself, Aneko was sure this was no ordinary student, she was far more educated than most... And did seem to be quite special. She was pleased.

"Gokigenyou Raznie Saky-san. My name is Miyazaki Aneko"

"She is my Onee-sama, Saky-san"

"It's an honor to meet you, Miyazaki Aneko-sama" Great handling of words: calling her "sama" from the first time.

"Please, take a seat, Raznie-san" she said showing her a chair.

"Thank you". Both Mariko and her seated.

"Would you like some tea?" the moment the word "tea" left Aneko's lips, Mariko stood up.

"That's very nice of you, Miyazaki Aneko-sama"

So Mariko served two cups of tea, refilled her Onee-sama's cup and went back to her seat. After watching them for a short while, Aneko was sure, she knew Mariko's intentions, but wasn't about to let her off so easy, so she asked. "Wasn't there something you wanted to explain, Mariko-san?"

"Yes Onee-sama... About my behavior... The reason I missed lunch the day before yesterday is that I was with Saky-san..."

"So *that's* what made you "Forget", Mariko-san?"

"Hai, Onee-sama..." she meant to continue but she found no words to do so.

"I see, in such case, Raznie-san, you must be genuinely special. See my sœur isn't easily distracted like that. I take it you know her?"

"Fairly, Miyazaki-sama" Well, she did pick up on the name, thought Aneko.

"Onee-sama, the reason I wanted you to meet her, is because I intend to ask her formally to be my sœur, and I wish to have you acceptance before I do so."

"I see... Well I have no objection as it is, however I would like to know what it is you think about becoming the youngest of the Yeskaoda family, Raznie-san"

"The..." It was then when it hit her. She was in the Yamayurikai and had no idea of it. And so the girl that had been so nice to her, hadn't been an ordinary one, it was... Rosa Yeskaoda en Bouton? This she wasn't expecting... Anything she could have seen coming but this... This was too much. Her becoming a rose? Her walking around with the Yamayurikai? Not that she didn't like it, but... She simply hadn't ever considered the possibility, not because she thought she couldn't handle it, but she just hadn't given it any thought... She did know it wasn't a simple job, and being a part of the Yamayurikai would probably help her plans a big deal, but... Shouldn't she ask for clearance before going ahead? ... No... If she asked, then things wouldn't work... If all of this is placed before her so perfectly, who is she to undo what has heavenly been given her? . She had a calm face all through her thinking, as a lady should. However a blink of wonderment had escaped her.

"The Yeskaoda family, certainly you know what the Yamayurikai is..." said Aneko

"Yes, forgive my delay, I wasn't aware of the fact you were Rosa Yeskaoda, Miyazaki-sama"

"I am, and of course, that makes my sœur, Rosa Yeskaoda En Bouton, and if you were to accept being her petite sœur, you would belong to the family as well, and be considered from that day on as a member of the Yamayurikai. And as such you would be expected to carry on certain tasks and behave a certain way... It could be a lot for a first year student."

"I see... Well, I have every intention to be Mariko-sama's petite sœur, and whatever comes with it, I shall accept gladly."

"I merely mean ask you to consider what you would be taking upon yourself, as you would not be a normal student anymore, and as you may or may not know, the Yeskaoda family has the obligation and responsibility of taking care of all the other roses, we are to be examples at all times, and I as your Grande sœur would not allow for any rudeness or inappropriate behavior. As I'm sure, Mariko wouldn't either."

Saky sighed in sadness, this reminded her so much to her situation at home that she could have laughed if it was any good. "Rosa Yeskaoda, I understand your concern for your family very well. And I can honestly tell you that what you ask from me is nowhere near what I can provide. I've never been what you would call a "normal" student, nor have I ever been a bad example for anyone. And I say this without pride, but as a fact. I've been taught to be a lady, to be an example, and I've taken care of others from the day I got to be 6 years old. And in such case all of this wasn't enough, Rosa Yeskaoda, I can sincerely guarantee you, that whatever is asked from me, to please Mariko-sama, and do well to what she has offered me. I will give. This including pleasing you, and honoring your line of roses"

Mariko was dazed through the whole thing. She couldn't believe her Onee-sama honestly thought she was *that* good, of course she had trust on her, but the way she put it, seemed as she was carrying the weight of the whole world... It didn't feel like that to be her sœur. Yet she was asking this girl, the perfect girl she had encounter, to be the picture of perfection... She could only hope for Saky not to step back, and while listening to her last statement, she realized she wasn't going to, and it made her truly happy. As sad as it was to listen to it in the way Saky said it, it *had* been perfect. So perfect that the next thing Aneko said was "Excellent. Welcome to the Yeskaoda family, Saky-san"

"Thank you, Rosa Yeskaoda" An assertive move as she couldn't yet call her Onee-sama, nor could she keep on referring to her by her last name.

"Very well, I think it's time for all of us to go into the chapel, the ceremony is about to start, and it wouldn't be right for us not to be there. Would it?"

And so they did, the now whole Yeskaoda family went into the chapel. A beautiful tradition was carried on with everyone in place. The Yamayurikai giving everyone a saint and the first year's all getting one. Being welcomed into the life of the institute.

After the ceremony, Mariko gave her rosary to Saky, as a symbol of their union. Before going home, they went back to the Rose Manor, they found most of the Yamayurikai, and Saky was introduced to the roses and their Boutons as Rosa Yeskaoda en Bouton's petite sœur. However the petit sœurs weren't there.

Aneko introduces Nanashi, and Eriko, as the yellow rose family, Hoshino, and Youko as the red rose family, Izumi, and Sei as the white rose family, and then tells them that Saky is from now on he youngest of the Yeskaoda family, Rosa Yeskaoda en Bouton's petite sœur. Saky greets them with "Gokigenyou Roses" and they all answer "Gokigenyou Onee-sama" which surprises Saky. They sit down for a cup of tea and taking a second, Mariko explains to her that as they take care of them all, every rose calls them Onee-sama. However most likely only the Boutons and petite sœurs will call her that, Saky tells her she doesn't mind.

She wonders who the petite sœurs may be, but they weren't there. She was going to meet them later.

Saky usually left in her family's car, however this particular day, her father had gone to pick her up himself, something that made Saky's face shine with happiness. She had walked the way out of the school with both her Onee-samas and she had been pleased. She had behaved as nothing but a perfect lady, yet she became little but a child at the sight of her beloved father. Her eyes widened, a broad smile crossed her face, and a slightly loud "Father!" came out of her lips, then she hurried, almost even ran to him, hugging him as she reached him. She was absolutely glowing. He wrapped his hands around her, responding to her hug.

He was a tall man, with black and perfectly groomed hair. And impeccable black suit with a red tie, and a white shirt, he was indeed happy to see his daughter; both girls were touched with the scene. By the look of it all, Saky was from a good family, wealthy as well, as they were standing next to a luxury black car with a driver ready to open the door for them. They came closer, and once the hugging was done, Saky turned to them, softly blushed and said "Father, allow me to introduce you to my classmates, this is Miyazaki Aneko, a member of the student council, she is Rosa Yeskaoda, and this is Tsaphero Mariko, Rosa Yeskaoda En Bouton. These are my Onee-samas, as today I became Tsaphero-sama's petite sœur." Then turning to the girls, she added, "Onee-samas, this is my Father, O... Raznie Ryo" hesitating a little about his name.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, girls. Gokigenyou."

"Honored to meet you Sir. Gokigenyou" They both said at once bowing their heads to him.

"I wish you both have the deference of joining us for dinner sometime soon"

"Thank you sir."

With a smile he told his daughter "I trust you'll see to it, Saky?"

"Of course, Father"

"Very well, I believe it's time to part, the whole family awaits, dear"

"Yes, sir... Would you like for us to lave you some place, Onee-samas?"

"No, thank you Saky-san, we have our own paths to follow, we'll see you tomorrow as scheduled, Gokigenyou" said Aneko

"Gokigenyou" was Mariko's farewell

"Gokigenyou, Onee-samas"

And so, Saky left with her father that day. Glowing in bliss.

Next day in the Rose manor, at teatime was Saky getting the place ready along with Rei, Rosa Foetida en Bouton's petite sœur. Once they were done, which was much faster than usual as they were extremely good at it, Rei had to go out, as she was required at her kendo club. And only a couple of minutes after Rei left, the door opened, Saky believed it was Mariko, who as she was told, usually arrived about 15 minutes before everyone else. Instead she found Rosa Gigantea standing behind her. "Gokigenyou Rosa Gigantea"

"Gokigenyou Saky-san"

"Would you like a cup of tea?"

"Hum... I'm not so fond of the herbal stuff Youko brought, and the rest ran out yesterday, I have no idea of who's turn it was to bring some... so until there's something else there, I prefer not to get all yucky with green issues..." she said with a grin in her face "Thanks anyway" she added.

"Oh, well if you'd like we also have these" she said placing a small very nice looking box in the table, it had little envelopes sorted by colors, separated by little walls in the box.

"Hum... who brought that?" Rosa Gigantea asked.

"I did, it's ok if you don't like them, I just thought..."

"Where did you buy it?" Sei interrupted

"Oh... well... Hakiro's I think... why?" (Hakiro's is a very expensive store there.)

"You don't have to go around spending your money like that to impress us, you know?" She said in a somewhat scolding tone. "Normal not green stuff would be just fine" she said to light it up a bit as she felt she had been too hard.

"Oh... well... I didn't mean..." she was trying to explain, as the door flew open once again, only this time the girl that entered was no other than Ogasawara Sachiko.

"Gokigenyou" she said not having turned yet to face the others.

"Gokigenyou, Sachiko" Said Sei.

Sachiko turned, and so did Saky, their eyes met, for a second there was no expression on either face. Then Sei spoke "I see it was your turn to bring the tea, huh?" watching a little box identical to the one Saky had brought she added "But you've been beaten to it." And pointed to the little box in the table. Sachiko saw the little box at the table, as Saky looked at the one on Sachiko's hands. Then turned back to each other's eyes and laughed.

Sei had a confused look, and then made up her mind and said "Sorry, I'm rude, Sachiko, this is..."

"Saky-sama" she said and bowed her head towards Saky.

"Huh? You know her? ... Well, Saky, this is..."

"Sacchan"

"Ok, now I'm confused, aren't you a first year student Saky?

"I'm sorry Rosa Gigantea, I think we do owe you an explanation" Sachiko said.

"And I think I owe you one as well, Sacchan"

"Ok, so lets all sit down and explain to each other, 'cause I'm as lost as a gecko on the sea," Sei laughed a bit after saying this.

Once they were all sitting down, Saky was the one to explain first "Ok, so remember how I told you I was having lunch with another girl? This "girl" I thought was maybe a first year too, or whatever, turned out to be Mariko-san"

"Rosa Yeskaoda en Bouton? God, this is *so* you..." Sachiko said in a half joking half exasperated tone.

"Yes, I know, so basically long story short, we got along wonderfully, and yesterday, at lunch she asked me to be her sœur... and I met with Aneko-sama, and after the ceremony, she made it official, and you know how Father picked me up, right?"

"Yes, he told me to go home, and I didn't get a chance to talk to you during dinner"

"Yeah, well. Today I'm here... You see."

"As Rosa Yeskaoda en Bouton's Petite sœur?"

"Yes, that would be me"

"God... this is so... nice! I didn't think you'd make it into the Yamayurikai, but the part certainly fits you. You definitely belong in the Rosa Yeskaoda family..." Sachiko said with the most loving eyes.

"Thank you, Sacchan... When Aneko-sama told me what would be expected from me..."

"I bet it's not even half, right?"

"You know all this too well, don't you Sacchan?"

"I know as I said before, this is a perfect match, you belong on the Yeskaoda family, congratulations"

"Thank you... Again" Saky smiled at her, a somewhat paternal smile.

"Ok, so all this is very nice, and I already knew it, well not about your father, but everything else, so now what I want to know is what's up with you two."

"Forgive us, Rosa Gigantea" Sachiko said.

"Yes, please"

"It's ok, just tell me already, what's with the name calling?" Sei was starting to get desperate.

"Well, Saky-sama and I are cousins, Rosa Gigantea."

"So are Rei and Yoshino, and I've never heard Rei call Yoshino "sama" of course Yoshino calls Rei "chan" but even so..."

"Yes, but in our family, we are quite traditional, and when a child comes to the age of 6, they are given to look after a younger one. However, in our case, I was given to Saky-sama to look after me, and not the other way around, as she, truly surpassed me in many aspects. It's not something done a lot, but as you can see, it happens, and it turned out for the best."

"Oh, Sacchan, I didn't..."

"Oh yes, you did, you outshone me by far, don't even try on being modest right now, I beg you, because you still do"

"I believe I'll keep quiet before you manage to blush me, dear."

"So, let me get this straight... you go for the whole "help growing up" Sempai/Kohai thing, and the Sempai... Is *you*?" she said looking straight at Saky.

"Yes"

"So when *you*" she says looking at Sachiko "were 8, you were given for guidance to *her*?" she said pointing at Saky.

"I was still 7, I'm only 1 year and 11 months older than Saky-sama"

"Ok, this is too much, really" she said in between laughing.

This was when the rest of the Yamayurikai showed up. And the first thing they noticed was Sei laughing loudly.

"What's so funny Sei?" said Youko.

"Oh Youko, really how divine it is that the one to ask is you, really!"

Sachiko blushed softly and Saky took her hand for a second.

"Would everyone please get in and have their seat?" The voice came from behind the door and it was Aneko's.

Everyone did as told as Sei tried to calm down. Once seated, Rei was the one to make tea, because Sei had asked her to do it on her own. Then, Youko repeated her question.

"Ok, Sei, what is it that you've got, that mischievous look of yours can only mean that there's something you are dying to tell us"

"Oh there is, you must have already noticed the fact that you petite sœur is here... and you haven't introduced her to the new Yeskaoda member, have you?"

"No I haven't, I apologize Saky-san" she said looking at her.

"Please don't, Rosa Chinesis en Bouton"

"Hey, Rei, in your family, when you were children, did Yoshino's parents made her your kohai? Did they give her to you for guidance?"

"Yes, but it was a very long time ago, and we really don't mind it, why?"

"Well, you see these two?" She said pointing to Sachiko and Saky. And then added "Sachiko, would you please tell us who the girl next to you is... you may leave the rose thing out" She said with a grin.

"Saky-sama is my cousin" Sachiko said calmly, as she wasn't at all embarrassed by the situation, she had only dreaded that Saky was, but the early grabbing of her hand had secured her that thankfully Saky was ok with it all.

Everyone seemed fairly ok with it, except for Mariko, who spoke next.

"So... You would like to change Onee-sama, is that it?" she seemed hurt.

"No, Onee-sama" was the answer that came from both girls, in the same fast surprised way. Everyone seemed now puzzled, they were cousins but didn't want to be together? Then what was it with the whole sempai thing?

"I could never have Saky-sama as my petite sœur, Onee-sama" Sachiko spoke much more calmly.

"And I do love being yours, Onee-sama" Saky added.

"Then what is it?" Eriko was now the one to speak.

"Oh, not much... only... Saky-san, do you mind telling us who got whom?" the smug on Sei's face grew bigger

"I'm Sachiko's Sempai" Saky was serene, diverging with everyone else's that looked quite staggered.

"I-Is this true, Sa-Sachiko?" Said Rei as puzzled as ever.

"Yes" Was Sachiko's only response.

"But... how?" Nanashi asked.

"Quite simple, really, when I was 6 years old, Saky was quite better than me in most our classes, so they decided it wasn't fair for me to be her sempai, and there were no other cousins available, so when she turned 6, and I was 7, they took a deeper look to decide what to do, and as she was still better than me by far, and I already followed her lead anyway, they decided to do it like so. They gave me to her, so she could guide me... Surely I've been a burden, but she hasn't ever complained..."

"Sacchan, you wont ever be a burden, please, you are unquestionably the best thing in my life, and I don't believe I'm better than you in a single thing." Saky spoke right from the heart.

"So... this is the person you knew from before here...right?" said Mariko

"Yes, Onee-sama" Was Saky's reply

"Alright, so I see no important things here, Saky happens to be Sachiko's Sempai, is there anything else you would like to share, Sei?" Said Aneko in a hard tone.

"Hum..." Sei put on a fake thinking face, and then said "We have 2 fancy boxes of tea... and I think that's about it, Onee-sama" Sei still had a smile in her face.

And so the day goes on without any more "special features"

PREVIEW:

"Gokigenyou" Sachiko's voice greets "On our next chapter, we are going to have some very sexy stuff"

"But, how Onee-sama? I'm not even on the cast yet..." Yumi objects.

"How selfish of you, Yumi, and you haven't even greeted our audience" Sachiko scolds her

"Gomenasai Onee-sama, Gokigenyou Minna... Maybe I should be punished" There's a wink somewhere in her tone.

"That's better, and we also have some of that... But for now think a little peek wouldn't hurt: Every Onee-sama gives her petite sœur... "A big surprise" as soon as possible after the rosary..." Sachiko says in a sexy voice

"Oh really? ... I can't wait Onee-sama... but if everyone does it..." Yumi stops to think for a second and carries on "Then that means you and Rosa Chinesis en Bouton...!"

"Yumi, you are just going to have to wait and find out on the next chapter of "What Makes A Rose"

"Oh, and when will it be published?"

"Well, it's sitting on our author's laptop, so... As soon as some feedback is written"

"Oh, please everyone, write lots of feedback really soon so we can find out, I *really* want to know what happens with Onee-sama" Yumi whines.