I printed this one out days ago, and would've commented then but for the fact that my brain was thoroughly pain-fried and I would've said something to the effect of "...pretty!...Ima go die now."
I mentioned it in the email (...I think...that whole day's a bit of a blur. x_x;; ) but I think white was definitely the right choice for the background color here, just because it blends in better with Jou's shirt. A dark purply background might also have looked neat, but then you run the risk of Jou looking like one of those ominous disembodied heads in scifi B-movies. XD
I like Jou's expression, and his hair has a nice amount of layering and floof to it. And Mai came out great! I can speak from experience when I say that she has the most evil hair in the series, but you've drawn it really nicely here. It's detailed, and I really like the overall shape of it...it looks like it has realistic volume, and the little bangs-y bit on her forehead is positioned well, too. I have a hard time with that bit...it always ends up looking like some sort of growth when I draw it. ._. And I agree that her figure came out well, particularly where breast-placement is concerned. Seriously, a lot of people have a problem with it...I saw one of those How to Draw Manga books with an entire chapter on doing it properly, so it must be an issue.
You already know I love fanart symbolism, and I like Mai's expression...it's really suiting to the mood. It's also neat to see her in a partially-dressed Doom-y state. snuggles all over Thanks so much again...I really appreciate these pictures. ^_^
IT's very good! Try doing some shading, I'm sure it'll turn at good. :3