Chapter 11

The eleventh chapter of Claymore by Norihiro Yagi, first published in the May 2001 issue of Shonen Jump.

Short Synopsis
The victory over the Yoma comes at a terrible price. Clare has crossed her limits of Yoki use and thus has lost control of it. Her body distorts and she tries to slit her own throat, but is unable to do so. Her arm acts on its own and attempts to kill Raki, however she manages to force it down. She begs Galk to kill her, but Raki will not leave her side, saying that she is the kindest person he knows and, if she dies, he will die as well. Her Yoki aura skyrockets and then miraculously dissolves at its peak, with Clare's human side fully intact. The next day, a fully recovered Clare leaves town with Raki, but not before Galk gives Raki a holy sword to help him protect his companion.

Loss of Control
As Clare stands over the fallen Yoma, and Sid and Raki cheer for her, she realizes that she has lost too much blood, and her Yoma power is out of control. She drops to her knees and watches her hands become veined and inhuman. Raising her sword, Clare tells the horrified Raki that she will have to kill herself while she remains human. As Raki tries to stop her, she loses control of her arm and nearly cleaves him in half, but drives her sword into the floor at the last second. She tells Raki to not come near and asks Galk to take her head.

Rescue
As Galk prepares to execute Clare, she explains to Raki that she is becoming a Yoma and says that she is glad to have traveled with him. Raki embraces her, telling her that he lost everything after the Yoma attack; he wants nothing but to die with Clare, because she has been kinder to him than anyone. With an effort of will that shatters the floor, Clare manages to reverse to human form. Galk slumps down beside Clare and reminds her that Raki has saved her as the boy hugs Clare and sobs.

Departure
After some rest, Clare and Raki are seen off by Father Vincent and a guard who is ashamed that their heroic act can't be publicly acknowledged, though Clare doesn't mind. Father Vincent mentions that he would be willing to take care of Raki, but Clare simply asks Raki if he wants follow her, to which he happily answers yes. Galk and Sid say goodbye, with Sid stealing a kiss from Clare, for which Raki kicks him in the groin. After a small fight, Sid tells Raki to grow strong and protect Clare, he promises to do so as they leave together.