WARNING:
This chapter has detailed description of a suicide attempt, please, if you have any kind of sensitivities/triggers about this subject, please skip it (it happens in the first scenes)

Arc 3

 

Scene 0

The beginning of 2017 went smoothly. As well as Aisa and Andou, Mio and Phaniel, Mia and Iro were now another happy couple to add. The girl had finally gone back to work at the bar and was talking to Zenska and Kieza again. It seemed that everyone was happy. Maybe they could finally find some peace in the city. After all, the city had already been rebuilt, residents were gradually arriving and life was being restored in Dìxía. Unfortunately, however, this was not the case. Yes, on the outside everyone was happy, warm, with their dreams fulfilled. Everyone was friends, some had their love of life by their side, others were surrounded by family. However, some people still held grudges, sadness and hurt inside. Hiding a dark side, an ugly side that even they themselves hated. 

It's night, but in the Ocean residence, it seems that the "darkness" has taken over much more:

- Hahh - Yuki sighed heavily, her eyes seemed to glow in the total darkness - I'm getting tired of these games...

Her eyes, sharp as they usually were, had a totally different aura. She looked exhausted, tired, as if she couldn't take anything anymore: 

- But I have to trust her - She reached for her eye patch - It's not time yet. I need patience.

At the same time, in the next room, Mio was having insomnia again. Even though her relationship with Phaniel was amazing, the two of them still didn't live together, mainly because of her older sister's protests. Although the two of them had been planning the move for some time, it would probably take a while. Because of this, Mio slept alone. She had improved a lot from her nightmares and sleepless nights since she started dating, but recently it seemed that everything was back to square 0. That was a bad sign. After all, her insomnia was only resolved when 2.0 was sealed in her mind:

- Again, I can't sleep. 

She sat down on her bed and turned on the lamp. Mio picked up her bass and, as in the past, tried again, miserably, to write lyrics. In exactly the same way, she scribbled a few words, crumpled up the paper, picked up another and started again. She stayed in this cycle until something began to take shape:

- "Somebody like yourself, true and kind, would never understand this aching heart of mine" - Remembering the melody from a few years ago, the lyrics seemed much more congruent now - "...and so, I write songs to pass the time", "I've always dreamed to be on TV to hear the audience lovingly praise me" - She then stopped, remaining silent

Mio wrote it all down on a clean sheet of paper, then left it next to another sheet of paper, now in her hands. It had a similar handwriting, as if this one had much better handwriting:

- "I'm suddenly taken back to that time. All the summers who would bore me out of my mind... didn't I quit playing piano?", "Everything will be okay", "Whatever I do, it just won't disappear. It's still right here.", "I don't really care though. Not about music, or truth, or this world, or this life I hold. I don't really care, no", "I've tried, but I still don't understand why. Why is it we have to fight to live our own life? Why I can't live off doing the one thing I like?", "Yeah, I think I got it right."

She then stopped playing her bass, raising her face:

- OH FOR GOD'S SAKE - She jumped in fright

A laugh echoed through the room:

- Go on... I was just enjoying myself, you know - Two green eyes appeared in the darkness

- How long have you been there... - She carefully put her bass away

- It's been a while~

- Aw - She put her hand to her forehead - Who knew my puppet would come to life one day?

- In my defense, it was against my will.

- Right, right. What do you want here, Mary?

- Oh~ just to have a nice chat! Would you like some tea? - She said as she prepared a tea set on top of the headboard

- What's for tea today?

The two then amicably struck up a conversation. During the nights when Mio started having insomnia, she was always visited by Mary. She was her companion in the early hours of the morning, usually chatting until dawn or until Mio fell asleep. The woman never questioned why the puppet went there almost every day, after all, Mary had never tried anything, and who would reject company when you're completely alone? It was already the middle of 2017, they had been having these nightly conversations for a few months. It helped that all this time had passed much more quickly for Mio than she realized:

- But, you know, Mio, don't you think you've got to fix this?

- Yeah, I know, Mary, you always say that - she sipped her tea

- You're already 23! This insomnia could cause a lot of trouble.

- You're right...

- Besides, Yuki can't interfere in your relationship all the time. Seriously, it's weird. Where have you ever seen a couple that doesn't live together? Even Mia and Iro are almost living together, and you've been dating Phaniel for two years?

This kind of dialog became commonplace during these evenings, Mio never contradicted anything Mary said, just silently accepted it. Comments like "you have to do this", "that's wrong", "do it this way", "it's weird" and so on were quite common. Perhaps it was due to the lack of a mother figure, but Mio was extremely submissive when Mary took this attitude:

- You're right, you're right.

- Oh, please! You always say that, Mio, I've had enough of all this - she made her tone more rigid

The woman raised her face, which had been lowered as soon as the "moral lessons" began. She had a sad expression:

- You never seem to listen to anything I say, honestly - She nodded.

- I'm sorry, Mary...

- Honestly. - Her eyes began to shine - you're no good. 

How many times had she heard that? She'd gotten tired of counting:

- You're completely useless, to an extent that I don't think there's any point in trying to change. I think some people are just born to be useless~

It was a speech she was already tired of hearing. She knew exactly everything that was said by heart. Perhaps, given how often she heard it, it was true:

- Oh~ Mio - Mary's image distorted, all that friendly appearance from a few minutes ago crumbling away - you're so useless I feel sorry for you, what am I supposed to do with you, huh? Should I help you?

Maybe she really was useless, worthless. Maybe no one would notice she was missing. Yeah. I don't think anyone would care:

- Oh, I know - her eyes sparkled, in harmony with her macabre smile - how about... - her smile seemed to distort, it was frightening - you kill yourself?

Yes. No one would care. No one would care. It was pointless. Why was she even still alive?

- Maybe I should... what do you think, Mary? - She looked completely inexpressive, accepting everything the puppet said

- Well, Mio, that's something you have to decide for yourself. OH~or are you so useless that you can't even do that - She laughed - All right, I can help you, then - She smiled

- Thank you, Mary, you're very kind.

- But you'd better sleep for today, we'll talk about it another day, okay? 

- Right - She lay down, just obeying the other woman's orders

It's the middle of 2017. Everyone slowly began to realize that Mio was acting strange. Not only did she seem tired and exhausted again, like at the beginning of 2015, but she seemed distant from everyone. Even from Phaniel. The woman constantly avoided going out with her friends, talking to them, and lived at home, rarely going out. This even opened up many more opportunities for Yuki to go out to the bar. Everything seemed to have gone back to the way it was in 2015. Everyone had thought that they had overcome that phase, and that they had finally evolved, but with all this, they felt like they had gone back to square 0. Her closest friends began to worry that she might be depressed, but no one was able to really talk to her and try to "save" her from it.

From between the roofs of the houses, a portal opened up. It was night and the only source of light, apart from the moon and the streetlamps, was the portal. A figure stepped out of it, it was small, but it exuded strength and intimidation:

- It's terrible here - It was a thin, feminine voice, but it had lost its softness years ago - but I think I can change it - The woman turned her spear - Anyway, I can just destroy this timeline if needed - She slowly lowered her scarf, revealing her face

Blue, round eyes, but tired, exhausted. Short, blue hair that was chopped up, messy and badly treated. A long shark-like tail, full of scars, just like her face. Her clothes were pure chaos, full of pockets, compartments, hems, holsters, straps, ribbons, bows, knee pads, gloves, elbow pads, scarves and big boots. She was extremely similar to Mia, looking much older and more tired:

- This one is... - Some kind of hologram appeared right in front of her, as if it were an interface - timeline attempt #6,269. Dìxía in August 2017. A few weeks before Mio's suicide attempt - She took a deep breath of air - Ahh... how I miss that time. 

However, she had two big things that stood out from the younger girl's appearance: Her spear had countless sources of light, filling it completely. They were souls. Also, on her right shoulder, there was a kind of metal shoulder pad that imitated countless feathers. Much like the one Andou and Iro always carried. She was a Reaper and Jumper. Someone in charge of looking after and, if necessary, mowing down possible "sick" timelines. These timelines are the result of a situation where, at a certain moment, some kind of butterfly effect was generated which led to the complete corruption of that timeline. Whatever it is, it's an effect that completely destroys the balance of the entire universe. So much so that the butterfly effect can be so great that it even affects other timelines, leading to the same fate for them. That's why R-J exist. They are tasked with destroying these infected timelines, preventing them from spreading to others. However, there are some beings who want to infect timelines, one example being Xaphan. A glitch that wants to destroy the balance of the universe. That's why a glitch like him and a reaper and jumper are archenemies.

Now. The question is. Why exactly is a kind of "Mia from the future", who is R-J, coming to this timeline, who is she?

- Right. The last time I came to this timeline - She ran her finger across the hologram, she seemed to be searching for something - it was my best attempt! That's great - she closed the screen - Right - she got serious - I have to do something different.

 

 

Scene 1

At Mia and Kirisaki's house, the two of them were calmly eating breakfast. Both had grown very close over the last year, not least due to the fact that they each had their own jobs, friends and even a boyfriend - even though Xaphan was still very much on the outs. Because they had both managed to get on with their lives in a healthy way, they were also finally able to cultivate a decent relationship with each other:

- Hey, Kiri... I don't mean to weigh down the mood, you know.

- Say - She was eating a pancake

- It's about Mio...

- Mhm - She swallowed her food in one go

- Kiri. - She was annoyed by the lack of attention

- I hear you, Mia.

- It's just that Mio's acting strange, you could pay more attention, no?

- It's just that I'm tired of all this talk, like, everyone already said that Mio's acting weird, every day it's like that. We know. We've tried everything we can - She shrugged - Even Phaniel didn't make it, do you think we'll make it?

- I know - She mumbled - but what bothers me most is that Yuki seems totally indifferent. She's at the bar every day. What is it about her that makes her drink so much?

- Well, everyone has their secrets, don't they?

The two remained silent, looking at each other:

- Yes - she sighed - but I feel that Yuki's are much darker.

- Still - she giggled - if we try to figure her out, I think we'll end up in the cemetery.

- true... then there's nothing to do, is there? Just... trust that everything will work out - She looked down

- But it won't.

- What? - Mia raised her face, startled

It wasn't Kirisaki. It didn't even sound like her voice. Slowly, she looked in the direction of the voice:

- What the fuck? - The one with the red hair immediately stood up from her chair, bringing out her spear

- who... are... you? - The other was still sitting, completely still, frightened

The woman who had appeared that night, that reaper and jumper, had somehow gotten inside Mia and Kirisaki's house. She was right in front of them, wielding her spear, watching them with her dull eyes:

- I am you, a few years in the future. 

- Who? - It was the redhead who answered

- Do you want me to repeat it? - She answered dryly

- wait, is that possible? - Mia had finally said something

- Yes - she sat down casually at the table - haven't you ever heard of timelines, alternative universes, different dimensions? I imagined that you, more than anyone else, would know about that - She picked up a plate and a cup, helping herself. 

- Well, I know, and I imagine you know that I know. If we're the same person - Mia looked at her with confusion

Kirisaki was still wielding her spear, but she was calmer, even if she was perplexed by the way this woman was casually eating breakfast:

- Look, we're technically the same person, but since my timeline is different from yours, there are things I know that you don't, and vice versa. 

- That's clever, it avoids generating paradoxes - She mumbled - but... wait... - She raised her voice - Why did you come here?

- Oh, yeah - She sipped her coffee and ate bread with butter - about that... 

The room was completely silent while the woman ate:

- Uhm... okay, while you're eating, if you're me, what do we call you?

- I don't know - She took a sip of her coffee

- Huh - She sighed, exchanging glances with Kirisaki, both of whom were extremely perplexed. 

- How about Future? - The redhead said

- 0 creativity, huh - The younger girl said

- It's practical, it's fine - replied the other.

After a while, she had finally finished her breakfast:

- Okay - She got up - answering your question from before - She fixed her clothes - It'll go wrong, don't trust Mio.

- Calm down! What do you mean she's bad?

- No - she looked annoyed - she's going to try to kill herself. Very soon. Keep your wits about it. 

- How do you know that, since we're not on the same timeline? - Kirisaki frowned

- Heh - She smiled, showing her sharp teeth. She spun her spear around - That's why my spear is full of souls. Everyone will die if you carry on like this. And if you fail - she looked grim - I'll take destroy your timeline.

- But how can you be sure that this will happen in ours? 

- It doesn't matter. Just DON'T get in my way and DON'T let Mio die. If you don't, you'll all die, either at my hands or at Yuki's - She vanished into thin air

- Hahh - Kirisaki sighed - she talked, talked, and said nothing. I'm just even more confused! How annoying - She looked at her friend - So, what do you want to do?

- I don't know - she looked at the place Future was a while ago - but I'm going to trust her. 

- WHAT? Are you crazy? She hasn't proved anything, she could just be some lunatic! If she didn't have that damn spear full of souls... I'd have killed her right here - She grumbled.

- Calm down, Kiri - Pause - I don't know, what do we have to lose? I imagine that paying attention to our friend who's completely isolated won't hurt anyone, at most we'll just be a nuisance to Mio...

- Hmhnm - She mumbled to herself as she reflected. She sighed - you're right, you can never look after your friends too much. So, what the hell do we do?

- I'm going to organize a meeting. 

- Oh, yeah. I'd forgotten about that. You didn't talk to Iro for months, and since you started dating, Cheng and Mary have been so quiet... - She crossed her arms.

- Yeah, - she giggled - and you and Xaphan are too busy to destroy any timelines. 

- HEY! We don't have anything like that between us, okay? - She rolled her eyes

- Of course, of course. But it's been a while since we had a meeting. You don't want to take part?

- Pff, and have to look Iro in the face? I'll pass - She shrugged

- What do you have against him? 

- Do you really want me to list it, sweetheart?

- Ahh, that's fine - She shrugged - I already know exactly what it is. But in that case, don't you think we're even? I don't like Xaphan either - She laughed

- The difference is that you're dating Iro. 

- And you'll soon be dating Xaphan. There's no difference.

- WHAT - you're RIDICULOUS! - Somehow Kirisaki's face was even redder

- I'll be going, Kiri~

 

 

Scene 2

- Starting meeting number... - He was organizing some papers

- Does it matter? - Sora snorted

- I've lost count since the third meeting - Kieza said

- If you know it was the third meeting, then you haven't lost count - Zenska commented

- Look at Zenska being clever - Andou laughed

- HEY! I'm studying to get into college, okay? 

- Now it all makes sense - Kieza and Andou said together

- Shall we focus? - He finished organizing the papers

- Iro, the no-fun - Sora giggled as she pointed at him.

- Yeah. It's my middle name - He put the papers to one side

- HAHA - Zenska laughed - What's your name, Iro No-Fun Brown?

- Almost that - He closed his eyes

- He's so funny today... - Andou commented

- He's in a good mood - Kieza crossed her arms

- Shall we focus? - He tried to put things in order - the reason for today's meeting is very important.

- I figured, since it's been a few months since we organized a meeting - Aisa finally said something, closing her book - this is no time for jokes - She gave a serious look to Sora, Kieza and Zenska

- your "boyfriend" deserves a scolding too, okay? - Kieza grumbled

- I've already put him on the line - She removed her glasses

- a double meaning joke? - The redhead commented

- a double meaning joke. - Kieza echoed

- a double meaning joke! - Sora said

- It was NOT a double meaning joke!- Aisa's face was red

- uhh... I ask for focus from all of you, please - He coughed, clearing his throat

- Sorry, Iro! - Andou was the only one who replied

- Very well, Mia. Tell us what happened this morning. 

- ah... so - She was embarrassed, everyone was looking at her expectantly - a me from the future came to my house and had breakfast with me and Kiri and she said that everyone was going to die - She said it all at once, without even taking a breath

- A - Everyone had no reaction

- Okay, okay, let's take it easy. Can you calmly tell us the sequence of events? - Iro had the posture of a leader, surprisingly.

- Right... - She took a deep breath - I was having coffee with Kiri as just another ordinary day. We were talking about how worried we were about Mio's situation, then I said that we should trust her, because everything would work out in the end. I thought it was Kiri who had said that, but when I looked up I saw her looking behind me, completely frightened. It was a me from the future. She had said that nothing was going to work out.

- Okay... what else happened? 

- We named her Future. She said she wasn't coming from our timeline, but from another one, so there wouldn't be a paradox. However, she said that if we carried on the way we are, Mio would kill herself, Yuki would go crazy and then everyone would die. 

- How can she say that with such certainty? If she comes from another timeline, many things could have happened differently in ours and/or hers, so she can't prove it! - Sora stood up, looking annoyed

- Calm down, Sora - Iro said

- I asked her the same question - Mia continued - but she didn't answer. She just said that's why her spear glowed. It was kind of scary. There were hundreds, maybe even thousands of souls on her spear! I didn't even know my spear could do that!

- It makes sense, your spear is made of water. It can absorb, just like you, both the power and the soul of anyone - Aisa pondered - given that, if her spear was so full of souls... that means it's insanely strong!

- Someone's strength is trapped in their soul - Sora muttered.

- She's an extremely strong and dangerous enemy - Iro said - we can't let our guard down. Mia, if her narrative is correct, then that means that Yuki, in her timeline, was killed by her?

- Yes... and it seems that this timeline of ours isn't her first attempt. Because she was very objective. She said we had to stop Mio from killing herself, otherwise either Yuki or she herself would kill us. She'll take down our timeline if we fail.

The room was filled with silence:

- That's dangerous - Iro said - did she have any other details, anything you missed, anything else?

- She seemed a lot older than me, so it could be that the future where Yuki kills everyone is more distant. 

- We don't know how long she's been taking down timelines - Zenska commented

- But I think that if Mio died, regardless of the time, Yuki would go crazy - Kieza said - this isn't just a danger from now, it's like a time bomb. Yuki is a time bomb.

- Yes - Sora said - even if I am the Goddess of Time, I'm no match for a Chronos like her. She's the strongest being in the entire universe, she's the only creature who can alter time in any way she wants. Even I, as a Goddess, need her permission even if I only want to see the future, any change in time has to be reported to and accepted by a Chronos. And since she's the only Chronos... 

- She basically has an insane monopoly of power in her hands - Aisa crossed her arms - if you get on her bad side, it's a snap of fingers and she literally destroys your life.

- Wait, wait, that way it's Yuki who's the dangerous enemy, not Future. We're getting away from the point. Mia, please continue - The leader interfered

- Uhm... - She looked at them, when her eyes ran over Iro and Andou she seemed to have remembered something - AH, that! She was wearing that feather shoulder pad! 

- This? - Andou pointed to his shoulder pad

- YES! 

- uhhm - Andou and Iro looked at each other

- Well, that's a good and a bad thing - Iro said - It means that her narrative is actually correct. But it also means that she really can take down our timeline if she wants to. And if she's like you said... - He swallowed dryly 

- She's stronger than me and Iro - Andou finished his friend's sentence

- We're fucked. It's Yuki who's dangerous, and that Future girl too - Kieza had her hands on her face.

- If we told Yuki about this, wouldn't she realize something and not get mad? - Zenska thought

- No. It's too risky - Aisa replied

- If that were the case, wouldn't you just ask Sora to see the future? - Kieza said

- I just said that I need Yuki's permission even for that. If Yuki even knows we've had this conversation, we're screwed. And not at the hands of Future. She hates people looking after her life. There's a chance that if we tell her, this possible future will become a present. 

- What a "present", huh - Zenska giggled

- Okay, but look. If Yuki is a Chronos, doesn't that make her omniscient? And if that Future killed Yuki, doesn't that make her omniscient too? What's the point of hiding anything from them? - Kieza asked

- Exactly. 

- Huh?

It wasn't Zenska's voice, or Kieza's, let alone Sora's or Aisa's:

- You guys actually think.

It might have been similar to Mia's voice, but it contained a lot more tiredness, stiffness and time:

- Future... - Mia muttered

- Sup - She twirled her spear as she tidied up her scarf. 

Everyone looked at her ecstatically, wondering how someone as sweet, gentle and sensitive as Mia had turned into someone as rigid, cold and frightening as Future:

- What do you want here? - Iro readied himself

Future stared at him for a while, perhaps wondering how he could be so reckless:

- It's been a long time since I've seen you. - she said quietly to herself, hiding a little smile - I just came to warn you - Suddenly her air changed, she was even more frightening - Don't waste time arguing about futility. Time is running out. Stop Mio from dying.

- And why can't you do that? - Kieza asked

- Maybe because I've tried it thousand times, and they've all failed. 

- Then I guess you really are bad - Sora added.

- That could be. That's why I'm asking for your help - She replied coldly - Of course - She smiled cynically - unless you want to see your loved ones die in front of you, before you're murdered - And she disappeared from sight.

Everyone was silent, the air was heavy:

- It would be easier if we talked to Yuki... - Zenska muttered

- How can we go on? - Iro said - Does anyone have any ideas?

- Probably bother Mio every day, we could alternate the days so we never leave her alone. We have to schedule things to occupy her day, and obviously find some way to convince her that it's not worth killing herself - Aisa was the first to say something

- I also think we should always do this with her, pay special attention to her. If she has suicidal tendencies, it's not something momentary, it could happen again - Andou added

- Maybe talk to Phaniel about it? He is her boyfriend, after all - Sora said

- Maybe not telling everything to him, just the details - Iro said

- Is there any particular reason not to tell him about all this? - Zenska asked

- It's too much information for him, he might get too desperate and end up missing something, both for Mio and Yuki. Besides, Phaniel may be a half-plant, but compared to most of us, he has little contact with this side of timelines and alternative universes... even Kieza and you, who are human, have more knowledge of this than Phaniel. I think it's best to keep Future's identity between us. Even if she's from another timeline, it's best that she interferes as little as possible here.

- I totally agree with what Iro said - Aisa pointed out

- We're terrible friends, huh? - Mia said

Everyone suddenly looked at her, who had been quiet until now:

- What... do you mean? - Sora asked

- Look, a woman had to come from somewhere else, from the future, to tell us that we have to pay more attention to our friend. She doesn't even know our Mio, she's never technically seen any of us, and yet she has more sense than all of us, more sense that our friend is feeling lonely than we do, who see her every day... or almost every day. 

- That was painful to hear - Andou laughed lightly

- But that's because she's right - Iro added

- Hearing that, now I want to be by Mio's side even more. She's helped me so much with so many things, and look, I can hardly tell when she's sad - Aisa said, crestfallen - I have so much to thank her for, but since she's naturally a kind person, I've forgotten... got used to it.

- Yes, no wonder she's the Goddess of Loyalty - Andou laughed

- Right, how are we going to organize this planning? We can assign a person to spend time with Mio each day, and then the person in charge of the day decides what to do with her. Do you agree? - Everyone nodded - Well, does anyone volunteer to be the first?

And then the meeting went deeper, with everyone organizing their plans, agreeing what they would do and so on:

- Okay! That's perfect. Does anyone want to add anything else?

- Who's going to tell Phaniel about all this? - Sora asked

- I can take care of it.

- I want to go with Iro - Aisa said

- Very well - Iro looked around - Kieza, you've been quiet for a while, you haven't even commented on the plan to spend time with Mio. You're the closest to her here, do you have anything in mind?

- Hm... - She seemed to have her mind elsewhere - I'm not very confident about all this. That's why I didn't say anything. I didn't want to spoil your fun.

- So you don't want to take part in the plan?

- Ahh - she looked away - I don't think I should plan it, because I'm busy with a few things these days, but if the opportunity arises, I'll help. Ah! Speaking of which, look, I have to go! Bye, guys.

Everyone said goodbye to Kieza. As soon as she left the bar, her expression changed completely, she looked almost like someone else. 

 

 

Scene 3

Mary had given the signal. The day had finally arrived. After a few months of waiting, the day when Kieza would have to drink that... "strange liquid" for the first time had arrived. She was nervous. She would have to do it twice more, and then perform a ritual. Honestly, on second thoughts, it all seemed so much like some kind of scam, but she had already made a deal, she couldn't go back on it. All she had to do was pray, in case there was a "God" out there. 

She went home, took that bottle of sticky liquid out of her handbag. She had to take it all. There were two others in her bedside drawer. Well, what could go wrong? Tired of postponing it, she opened the lid and drank it all in one go. It didn't matter if the taste was strange, if the texture was disgusting, she was going to finish it all in one go. Huh, it wasn't so bad. Maybe she'd been too suspicious of Mary. Ah- wait... yeah... it was a bad idea to trust a demon. 

A horrible feeling began to rise in her stomach. Was she going to throw up? Was she going to faint? Was her blood pressure low, was she dizzy? She didn't know. It was just the worst feeling she had ever felt. Well, actually that kind of feeling was something she was used to. Every time someone looked at her with disgust, or every time she heard that fucking name, when she was treated in a way, no, when people mistook her for someone who died, someone who NEVER even existed, a pattern that society had built up and imposed on her. Yes. It was the same feeling. That feeling of anguish, disgust, anger, as if something unwanted was living in the same body as yours, as if there were two of you, your body and mind rejecting one of them, but it wasn't going to leave so easily. She had to lean on her kitchen counter, she was in a cold sweat, her vision was distorted, her whole body seemed to weigh three times as much, even her ears seemed to have stopped working. Her breathing became heavy, and it wasn't long before she began to regurgitate, as if her body was aggressively trying to expel something. What the fuck was in that bottle? Then, little by little, she lost consciousness. Ah, but at least the pain was gone.

At the same time, not far away, someone else was also having a bad experience. Mia had arrived home after the meeting. She quietly went to her room and locked the door. She stared at the floor in complete silence. She seemed lost in thought. Was she worried about her friend? Nervous about the appearance of a version of herself from the future? No, it was nothing like that. 

"Why are they so worried about her, but when I tried to kill myself countless times, only Kiri seemed to care?", "Maybe, if I kill myself, no one will really care" And things like that were going through her mind at that moment. Both Mio and Mia had something in common: they both had suicidal tendencies. The only difference was that Mia's suicide attempts were much more frequent, or at least drew a lot more attention, than Mio's. This is because Mia is someone with insanely high regeneration, making her almost immortal. Whether it was alcohol, medicines, colds, viruses, bruises, scratches, cuts, surgeries, loss of consciousness and many others, her body regenerated so quickly that she didn't even realize she was getting sick. She had tried everything: hanging herself, suffocating, jumping from a high place, cutting herself, shooting herself, overdosing, starving and thirsting, drowning, being run over... Nothing, absolutely nothing, worked. And that only made the desire to kill herself grow even more, an anger, irritation, as if she wasn't even good enough for that, she was so useless that she couldn't even kill herself. Not even when she jumped in front of Mary's attack. It was simply impossible. Did she really have to go on living that horrible life? It was exhausting. 

She sat on her bed, looking at her desk, specifically the panel attached to the wall just above the table. She had pinned up countless photos and memories with Iro, Kirisaki, Sora, Zenska, Kieza, good memories, memories she would like to keep with herself forever. She sighed. But just a moment's attention from her friends wouldn't help. After all, even with those memories and photos stuck on her dashboard, she was still thinking about dying. It's not that simple:

- I hope it works at least with Mio - She muttered - because it won't with me - She said even more quietly

Since two bad experiences aren't enough, a third person would also have to suffer. Sora and Aisa arrived home, and with all the talk about Yuki, the younger girl couldn't help but reflect on her friendship with her. She went to her room and sat on her bed, immersed in thought as she fiddled with her hair. The habit of braiding her hair when she was nervous, or just thinking, came from her mother. When she was younger, her mother always kept Sora's hair long because she loved to do different styles with it, so she got used to braiding her hair. Even as a memory of her late mother:

- Hahhh... - She sighed - Yuki... 

She looked at the locks of pink hair in her hands. There was a question inside her. A question she had been refusing to answer for years. Yuki had been the biggest influence on her perception of this question, but also the biggest reason for Sora to ignore it. She knew very well why. She was afraid that by answering it, she would be rejected by the woman. However, with each passing day, the answer became more and more obvious, inevitable, it stopped being a question and became... reality. A reality that Sora hated. After all, deep down, she had always known the truth. She just didn't want to accept it:

- I can't hate you. After all, who could judge a sister's hatred and pain? Haven't I been through something similar? - She gazed at the ceiling of her room

Sora's childhood was perfect, incredible. She was definitely the favorite child. And that wasn't just an assumption, on the contrary, her parents made it very clear. While her older sister, Aisa, was forced to study all day, the youngest could go out and play with the other children. In fact, the discrepancy between the sisters was so great that they weren't even allowed to play with each other. Of course, as she was very young, Sora wasn't able to notice these different treatments. In her innocence, the little girl even felt sad when her parents didn't allow her to play with her sister. Not that this was enough to make her depressed, as she soon forgot about it - after all, she had a loving and kind family. Still, when her parents suddenly told her to run, run as far as she could without looking back, she didn't realize it at the time, of course, she was a spoiled little child, but when she got tired of running and finally disobeyed her parents' order and looked back... she was alone. For the first time, she faced loneliness and fear. And she didn't know how to deal with it properly. She became corrupted, and for many years she wandered the universe as a Nightmare, the initial stage of a Corrupted God. If it hadn't been for meeting Yuki, Mio and, later, Aisa, today she would be a Fallen Goddess. That's why she understands the pain that possible future Yuki went through. For if she lost Aisa again, perhaps not even Yuki would be able to save her. However, her concern was nothing of the sort. After all, when she discovered the reason for Future's dystopia, she had already made up her mind: she wouldn't blame her friend:

- But... if she hated me... - she laughed wistfully - maybe it would make sense for me to become a Fallen Goddess altogether.

And so the days in Dìxía went on. On the front, everyone acted normally, but slowly the fear, insecurity and regrets of the residents took over. None of them could show it, they were all too overwhelmed with saving Mio. They couldn't fail in their task. A shame, frankly. For it was all in vain. It had been a few weeks since Future's appearance, apparently she had gone quiet. Meanwhile, they were all doing their best to spend time with Mio, who always turned them down, and it was a huge sacrifice every time to convince her to leave the house. As if that wasn't enough, Yuki kept going to the bar every night, and no one could tell her anything, for fear of annoying her. It's night, and again the shadows seem especially darker:

- Hah... - She sighed

Future pulled down her scarf, leaving her face completely exposed. She was looking at some kind of shiny object with a slight reddish tinge:

- You called yourself a phoenix - she giggled - but you didn't come back from the ashes... - She had a bitter smile - I miss you... ki- 

Before she could finish her sentence, in the blink of an eye, something completely shattered the object. The remains of the "glass" crashed to the ground, only for Future to stare at the fragments, completely static. As if she had just seen a loved one die:

- w...ha...t..? - She barely had the strength to say anything, she seemed on the verge of tears

- Pathetic - A harsh, intense voice came out, just as strong footsteps approached

The other quickly covered her face again with her scarf and resumed her posture. She looked in the direction of the voice, angrily wielding her spear:

- That's useless. I just did you a favor~

A hooded figure emerged from the shadows. It was a female silhouette, nothing more information could be gleaned from that person. Well, maybe the left eye: it looked like a golden watch:

- Who are you? - Future said, ruder than usual

- Hmm~ how about I keep a little secret? 

A little way away, at Kieza's house, Mary had given the second signal. She was nervous. She couldn't sleep. Technically, she could have taken it, but for some reason she had gone to bed and decided to take it the next day. Well, it didn't solve anything, because she couldn't fall asleep. She stretched out her hand to the bedside, opened the drawer and took out one of the bottles. She sat down on her bed and took a single sip of the liquid. "It doesn't seem so bad," she thought. But then she felt something strange, it seemed as if her heart had forgotten to beat for a few seconds. She broke out in a cold sweat, shivered and felt weak, but none of this came close to the immense headache she felt. It hurt, oh, how it hurt. She didn't know how long the pain continued, because she soon lost consciousness. And then she woke up with the sunlight bothering her eyes. She got up, just like another day. She went to wash her face and made the worst mistake of her entire life. What the fuck was that? When she looked in the mirror, there was something there. Something. It wasn't there last night:

- What is... it? - She touched her face, trying to make sure it wasn't a dream (it wasn't)

On her forehead, at each end of it, there were two... stumps...? They were growing out of her skin, as if from the inside out. They were still short, but something told her they would grow longer:

- What the fuck? HOW CAN I LEAVE THE HOUSE LIKE THIS? - She quickly panicked - CALM KIEZA- Breathe... breathe...

She looked in the mirror again:

- I could try covering it up with a band, yeah. I always wear a headband, so it won't be so abnormal - She smiled, proud of her decision. She remained silent. Her smile gradually faded - Yeah. But it'll grow. aHHH WHAT A BITCH! WHAT A PIECE OF SHIT! WHY DID I ACCEPT THAT CONTRACT?????

 

 

Scene 4 

A few days later, at Mio's house, it seemed that the melody of her bass had become frequent. To some, this might seem like a good thing; after all, the woman was really skilled when it came to playing and singing. However, if you know a bit more about her, you'll notice that she only plays her bass when she's feeling down. Looking on the bright side, the melodies that Mio had been trying to compose for years finally seemed to be taking shape. Under her bedside were two sheets of paper with countless verses, the volume of crumpled sheets in her garbage can had decreased, and the verses seemed much more complete and organized. One of the sheets, in particular, already had a title for the song: "That's why I gave up on music". Mio now had this sheet in her hands, positioning it in a place where she could read it easily. She got up from her bed, her eyes fixed on the sheet music. She straightened her posture and placed her hands gently under the instrument, taking a deep breath:

- "I'm suddenly taken back to that time, when I waited for you underneath the blue sky..." - Pause - "Can someone tell me what'll happen next? Say, tell me how to make it go on just another day. Looking right into your eyes, as I walk away from you one last time" - Pause - "All the summers who would bore me out of my mind. Didn't I quit playing piano?" [...] Hey, can someone tell me what I'm gonna do? Hey, anything besides music should be okay" - Pause - "But I've got it wrong again! I don't understand, I don't really care though. Not about music, or truth, or this world, or this life I hold. I don't really care, no!" - Pause - "Hey, do you know what you'll be doing one day? Passing through the years, I knew what I would do one day. I'd be doing nothing at all!", "All your positivity ignites a hatred deep in me. Knowing I'll never be happy, knowing that I'll never be enough, can't you see? It haunts my every single waking dream!!!" - Pause - "But without love, or salvation, or kindness, or comfort, though, is it really life? No!!" - Silence

Mio was really into the instrumental, it was clear that she had put all her emotions into that song:

- "I've tried, but I still don't understand why. Why is it we have to fight to live our own life? Why I can't live off doing the one thing I like? I don't care if my lyrics aren't quite right... I don't really care, no... 'Cause I think I've got it right. Yeah, I think I've got it right. Yeah, I know I've got it right.....?" - Pause - "So now you know why... so now you know why I don't do music anymore."

She took a deep breath. There were still a few verses to go, but the song was practically ready. The other score, on the other hand, was missing most of the lyrics. Nevertheless, she prepared to sing it, but was interrupted:

- Congratulations - Someone clapped their hands slowly 

- Ah, Mary... - She looked at her as she put her bass away - I hadn't seen you there...  

- I came for a visit, as usual - She was sitting on the bed across from her

- You're early - She sat down on her bed 

- Oh... I remembered I had something to do... - She looked away - ANYWAYS! - She looked back at Mio, her eyes shining.

- You know, Mary - she started to speak before the puppet - I was thinking... everyone has been trying so hard to keep me alive - she smiled - it's kind of funny, they're trying so hard... it makes me wonder - she looked down, with a slight smile - I mean, seeing them like this, so committed, makes me - she lifted her face - disgusted. 

The puppet, who was listening with a serious face, gave a big smile when she heard the word "disgust":

- Oh~ isn't that right, Mio? - When was the last time they worried about you? And yet Yuki probably didn't even notice... - She laughed

- Exactly... - She had a wistful smile - They never cared. They never cared.

- And if you disappear - She looked at her - they won't either...

- You're right - She looked up at the ceiling - if I die, will any of them call? Will I mark my identity in their minds?  

- Maybe...

- No. I don't care - She laughed - I can't take it anymore, Mary. 

Silence filled the room. The two stared at each other. One greenish eye was completely dead, dull, while the other was so green that it seemed to emit light on its own:

- do it. 

Mio closed her eyes, letting her head drop. She seemed to be considering many things:

- thinking about someone? - Even so, Mary kept urging her on

- No... I mean, it depends - she opened her eyes slightly - would Phaniel even mind? 

- You know the answer, but do you want me to say it out loud? - Pause - He doesn't care, Mio. Not Yuki, not Phaniel. None of them - You're useless, Mio

- Just die. Just die once. 

Mary's voice began to merge with another voice. One that seemed to have disappeared ages ago, but... came back. It had come back:

- 2.0.... - She lifted her face in fright, looking in the direction where the puppet layed 

This proved futile, as the girl was no longer there. On the contrary, there was a distorted, dark image of herself, with just a big smile, side to side: 

- you... shouldn't you be stuck in my mind? - She was scared, she hadn't expected that

- heh, yes! And it was hard to get out, you know? After all... it took almost three years, huh? 

- It could have taken another 3 years.

- Geez Mioo~ is this how you're going to receive me? I missed you. I missed this useless girl! 

- Yeah. I really am.

- Oh! You finally admit it? Then why don't you just kill yourself? It's much easier~ I'll help you! 

Mio's gaze was distant, dull, lifeless. She didn't seem to be thinking about anything else. She had no opinion of her own:

- Damn it - she clucked her tongue - these guys are really useless, huh? - Future tidied her scarf, twirling her spear

She was standing on the roof of a house next to Mio's, watching her from the window. It was already dawn:

- In the end, I'm going to have to do the dirty work, huh? I told you so. If this shit fails, I'm going to destroy this entire timeline - She jumped to the ground, running to Mio's house

She jumped out of the window, smashed it and was faced with a horrible scene. She had seen similar scenes before, she'd gotten used to it since that fucking day. She had seen all her friends and loved ones die, die in the worst possible ways. Not just once, over and over again. Meanwhile... she never seen anyone... so desperate:

- he..lp..mee... - Her voice was muffled, choking

In an improvised way, on top of Mio's closet, she had attached a rope and tied a knot. The chair she had climbed up from had fallen just below her feet, which were still struggling. Her hands were already red from the effort it had taken to remove the rope that was tied around her neck. The woman was still trying to call out for help, but her voice was too weak. Choking on her own saliva, short of breath and fearful of death, she could barely form words. Future had never seen such a horrifying scene. And to make matters worse, standing next to her was a distorted figure of Mio, with only a big smile, staring coldly at the desperate expression of her true self. She shouldn't panic, though. If she managed to save Mio, she would not only save that timeline, the future of that entire universe was in her hands. In a single movement, she cut the rope with her spear, catching Mio in her arms. She pulled a small knife from a compartment in her boots and cut the rope around the woman's neck, who promptly fainted. She gently placed her on the floor, leaning on the wardrobe. She stood up, directing her cold gaze at the other woman:

- Netzach - A voice came out

It was a hooded figure, pointing a stylized flintlock pistol, the same figure that had appeared to Future earlier. Without even hesitating, she fired twice at 2.0, who barely had time to react:

- What? - Future was static

2.0's collapsed body fell to the ground, there was no blood flowing from it, but there was a hole in her chest and another in her forehead. However, her death had not been from gunshots, but from old age, after all, she looked 50, 60 years older. Before she could ask anything, the figure had already disappeared:

- what was that? - She looked at the two bodies - At least she's alive - She picked Mio up again and put her on the bed

 

 

Scene 5

- So... she tried to kill herself in the end? - Zenska used her hand to support her face

The meeting group was together as usual, all around a table in the staff room behind the bar:

- Our efforts were useless, then? - Sora said

- Let's not be so pessimistic. It must have done some good... and she's not dead, it was just an attempt - Aisa replied

- The who tries once, tries again - Zenska said

- Yes, we had to rely on Future. If it hadn't been for her... - Sora didn't finish her sentence

- Everything worked out in the end, let's be positive! - Iro stepped in

- But do you think Mio is right in the head now? Look, anyone who sees her from afar thinks she has the perfect life.... she's dating, she's got her sister around... a lot of friends to rely... - Andou commented

- Right, it's not just because the danger of now is gone that we can let our guard down. Mio needs attention more than anyone! - Iro continued

Everyone was silent, thinking their own thoughts:

- And... Mia, Iro, how is she? - Aisa started another conversation, looking hesitant

- eh... she's better... - He sighed - as much as possible 

The room fell silent again:

- Could it be that the attention we've turned to Mio had ended up affecting Mia? - Sora had the courage to say what was on everyone's mind

- That's not relevant, we have to pay attention to both of them until they get better.

- I agree, Aisa - Iro said - Anyway! That's it for today. 

- AH! Wait - Zenska raised her hand - what about Kieza, any sign of her? She doesn't answer my messages anymore, and I haven't seen her at work... does anyone know anything?

- She said she was a bit ill... - Andou commented

- Yeah, that's the last thing she said to me - Iro also spoke up

- so no new information - The redhead sighed - ok, thanks anyway guys...

Meanwhile, at Kieza's house:

- What a mess, Mary! - She had her hands on her head

The woman was sitting on the end of the bed, bent over, looking at the floor:

- Calm down... - The puppet was a little way away, facing her.

- How am I supposed to calm down, WITH THIS ON MY FOREHEAD? 

She removed her hands from her head, revealing a pair of small horns:

- CAN YOU EXPLAIN? 

- Okay, okay - she sighed - What do you want to know?

- What the FUCK is this? Is it from the liquid I was drinking?

- Yes, you're basically undergoing a transformation. Instead of being a Human, you're turning into a Demon. 

- AND SINCE WHEN DID I ASK FOR THIS?

- I told you I'd need a Demon subordinate. Besides, didn't I also say that, in your current form, as a "Human", Mio wouldn't have eyes for you?

Kieza stared at her for a few seconds, completely disbelieving:

- ahgh REALLY? What a piece of shit!  - She mussed her hair as she grumbled - FUCK YOU, MARY!

- Oh, but I only did what you asked... - She smiled sarcastically

- you MANIPULATED my request! 

- You're the one who accepted the contract - She shrugged

 After a while, the woman calmed down:

- Okay, okay... it's not like I can do anything about it now. Damn.

- Is there anything else you want to know?

- There's something that's been bothering me... we had Cheng, Xaphan and you before, bothering everyone. Do you know why only you have been making moves?

- Hmm - She smiled - Not bad... I've formed a contract with each of them. Cheng was going to wait for the "right moment" anyway, and Xaphan is already too annoyed with Kirisaki. In the meantime, I was forced to form a contract with Iro in exchange for information. 

- With Iro...? - She looked incredulous

- I'm not allowed to touch Mia, in return he gives me any information I want.

"The part about you being bait so I can continue with my plan, I don't need to reveal"

- Got it - Pause - so... what else do I do??? I'll drink the last bottle today.

- I'll come to your house again in a few weeks. You don't have to worry about anything else.

- don't forget to fulfill YOUR part of the contract!

- Of course, of course! - And she vanished

- Well, here we go - She looked at the bottle in her hands - it's the last one. I can do it - She drank all the liquid in one go

At first everything seemed calm, perhaps too calm. However, Kieza didn't mind this, assuming that, having taken two other vials previously, she would have gotten used to this terrible sensation by now. However, it wasn't long before she began to feel a tightening in her heart, almost as if her body had forgotten. Forgotten how it was supposed to work. How her heart was supposed to pump blood, how her lungs were supposed to breathe, how her brain was supposed to think? It all seemed so much harder. Her heartbeat had lost its rhythm, her breathing was out of control and nothing logical crossed her mind. When she was finally able to recover her posture, the worst pain she had ever felt ran through her entire body, concentrating in just one place: her forehead. It wasn't a simple headache, much less a migraine. Nothing could compare. The basis of the pain felt very much like that constant ache that any child eventually gets used to, the pain of growing up. Oh, right, except that the bone grows inside you, not outside. Kieza wanted to rip it out, get rid of that pain, and in an attitude of complete desperation she put both hands under the horns, trying to pull them out, force them out, rip them out. To no avail. It only made the pain worse, as she tore off not the horns, but the flesh of her forehead, which leaked blood, running down her face and dripping onto the floor of her room. The blood mixed with tears of pain and despair, as she finally realized what was happening. Kieza was no longer a mere Human. However, her "soul" was still Human, and her body rejected the Wicked magic provided by the flascks she was drinking. Thus, together with the horrifying, agonizing pain of her flesh being torn apart from the inside out, her entire body made every effort to reject that transformation. Her viscera and organs all twisted, in line with the woman's cries of despair, and it wasn't long before she began to vomit. Not just food, but blood too. It was a completely disgusting, terrible, traumatizing scene. Then, after a good few minutes, the pain stopped. Of course, a huge migraine was left as a remnant of the growth of the horns, just as Kieza's whole body was still in agony. She collapsed, losing consciousness. 

Meanwhile, at Mia and Kirisaki's house:

- Hahh - The redhead was sitting on the end of her friend's bed, stroking her hair - what do I do with you?

The other girl was lying on the bed, sleeping peacefully. Only part of her body was covered; on her wrists, which were outside the blanket, it was possible to see some adhesive plaster and bandages. Even though she was sleeping peacefully, Mia looked tired, with dark circles under her eyes and even some signs of weight loss. It had been a few days since her last suicide attempt, a factor that had become all too common since Mio had also tried. As a result, Kirisaki and Iro took it in turns to look after and supervise her, since she wasn't mentally well enough to work, let alone be left alone. Of course, if it were up to them, they would both be by the girl's side 24/7, but they also had to work (especially when Mia couldn't do that):

- Well, I think you'll be up soon, so I'll prepare some light food - She stood up 

Suddenly, something grabbed Kirisaki's hand. It was Mia, who had woken up:

- no... stay here a little longer - She looked at her

- ah - The other looked back, visibly shaken - ok... ok... - She sat down again - how are you?

 - I'm getting better... - She looked away

- you don't have to force yourself, you know...

- I know. - She sighed

"I wish I could tell you, Kiri"

- What do you want to eat?

The other looked at the redhead in disbelief:

- What? - She smiled slightly - I don't want to lecture you... but sometimes eating good food improves your mood... 

- I know... - She smiled - especially coming from you, I know how important it is to eat...

The two remained silent:

- Mia... - Her voice broke - why? - She looked at the floor, holding back tears.

- hahh - She sighed, turning her face away. This question would eventually come - can I be honest? - Her voice lost its softness, becoming dry, harsh 

- please... - While the other struggled to keep her posture

- I don't know. I don't have the faintest idea, Kirisaki - she sobbed, suddenly a downpour began - I just do it, I don't think about it, I have no control over it. It's not regret, it's not because I'm dissatisfied with something. Honestly, all you can do is pray, is hope, that tomorrow I won't have this urge again.

They were both silent again, with only Kirisaki's sobs filling the room:

- yakisoba. 

- what? - The redhead still had her hands on her face when she turned around

- I want to eat yakisoba... 

- ah - she giggled - ok... I'll make it, then. Ah- but no meat, right? - She stood up

- You can have it with meat. 

- But... 

- I'll just take the meat out. You like yakisoba, and you like meat, don't mind me. 

- But Mia...

- Kiri - She had a sweet look on her face - it's my way of thanking you, please... 

- ok - She laughed with relief - ok, Mia - She kissed her on the forehead

 

 

Scene 6

- Wait- let me get this straight - She was sitting at the table - is Phaniel thinking of proposing to Mio??? 

- Yeah... - Aisa was still eating her lunch 

- And what do you think? - Sora had already finished eating

- Well, while I'm happy for both of them... maybe he's being too hasty. Not that Mio doesn't love him enough to reject him. Just... well, maybe he'll get a "no" because he didn't know how to wait for the right time. Do you understand?

- Yeo... - She sighed - love really is complicated, huh... - She looked up at the ceiling - like, she loves him, so why would she say no? 

- Isn't it kind of obvious? She was trying to kill herself just a few weeks ago and the two of them have never lived together! There's a huge difference in a couple's relationship before and after they move in together. 

- You seem to have a lot of experience - She leaned on the table

- Ah- - Her face turned slightly red - without leaning on the table! - She slapped her sister on the arm

- What about you and Andou?

- Well... that... 

- Do you want to move in with him?

- No, I don't! We've never had the chance to live together that often, Sora, so obviously I'm not going to throw away the great times with my little sister just for a mortal.

- Wooow~ you sounded ruder and more insensitive than I imagined. 

- It's not that! I love Andou very, very much. But I also understand my priorities. And, at the moment, you're above him. 

- Yeah - She shrugged - You've only known each other for a few years... getting married now would be rash.

- All the more so when, at the same time I met him, I was able to meet you again. Of course I want to spend the next few years close to you!

- In that case, then we agree that Mio and Phaniel's marriage is rash. 

- Look - She sighed - I think any marriage between a god and a mortal is rushed - She lowered her eyes

- Ah... so that's why... - Sora looked at her, eyes trembling - but why are you assuming that I won't grow old with you?!

Aisa smiled gently at her sister:

- Sora, would you throw your whole life away for me? Even when you want to be with Yuki?

- What? - She looked incredulous - I... - She looked away

- Was I wrong about something?

- No... but... 

- All right, Sora, I don't hold grudges, and I'm mature enough to understand that your choice doesn't mean you hate me. You alone, like me, know what your priorities are.

- No, Aisa it isn't like that - she closed her eyes - You're right, I wouldn't grow old with you, but it's not for Yuki. I don't stand a chance with her. 

- Who said that?

- She said it herself - She looked at the other

They both remained silent:

- That's not true. 

- She may not have said it directly, since I haven't declared myself, but it's certainly obvious. And even you already know that. 

- no.. Sora. You can't just give up like that! 

- Enough.

She got up from the table and went to her room, closing the door:

- ahh... what do I do with you - She still had her gaze on the chair in front of her

The other, meanwhile, sat on her bed, lost in thought, while stroking her long hair:

- Yuki already likes someone else. It's just silly for me to worry about these things - she sighed - I should just ignore these feelings once and for all. 

She stood up, having braided all her hair. She looked at her reflection in the mirror:

- Still, how I wish my concern was "marrying a mortal", or trivial things like that. Come on, Mio and Phaniel love each other, Aisa and Andou love each other, just get married once and for all!!! Fuck the others. What a drag - she grumbled - enjoy yourselves while you have someone who loves you - she paced around her room, arguing with herself - it seems that everyone in this town has someone they love... i'm sick of it. 

Meanwhile, in the house next door, Mio was lying partially on her bed, her feet on the floor, staring at the ceiling, arms outstretched:

- Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhh - she sighed heavily - I hate this - she said to herself. She turned over on her stomach, looking at her hands - I hate all this attention. None of them have ever shown all this, it's strange to receive so much concern out of the blue - She closed her eyes. She remained silent for a long time - and strangely I miss 2.0... - She remained quiet

The woman stood up, looking for something in her bedside drawers, while reaching for her bass. Once again, the cycle repeated itself. Mio picked up her sheet music, tried to create something, while staring at the empty bed on the other side of the room. It was always the same two songs, with the same unfinished and disconnected verses. Yet over time, incredibly, they seemed to be taking shape:

- "I'm suddenly taken back to that time, when I waited for you underneath the blue sky. Passing by me in an instant, slipping from the depths of my imagination, hey", "Can someone tell me what'll happen next? Say, tell me how to make it go on just another day. Looking right into your eyes, as I walk away from you one last time" - Pause - "I'm suddenly taken back to that time. All the summers who would bore me out of my mind... didn't I quit playing piano? Out of habit, tapping on my desk to play the notes. Hey, can someone tell me what I'm gonna do? Hey, anything besides music should be okay. Everything will be okay" - Pause - "But I've got it wrong again! I don't understand, I don't really care though. Not about music, or truth, or this world, or this life I hold. I don't really care, no!" - Pause - ""Hey, do you know what you'll be doing one day? Passing through the years, I knew what I would do one day. I'd be doing nothing at all!", "All your positivity ignites a hatred deep in me. Knowing I'll never be happy, knowing that I'll never be enough, can't you see? It haunts my every single waking dream!!!" - This part wasn't finished yet - "I've tried, but I still don't understand why. Why is it we have to fight to live our own life? Why I can't live off doing the one thing I like? I don't care if my lyrics aren't quite right. I don't really care, no. Cause I think I've got it right. Yeah, I think I've got it right. Yeah, I know I've got it right.....?" - Pause - "But I've got it wrong again, I don't really understand. I don't really care, though. Not about Humans, or truth, or this world, or this life I hold. I don't really care, no. Never giving a reply, just philosophic lines, is just an excuse, right?" - Pause - "So now you know why... so now you know why I don't do music anymore." 

The woman took a deep breath and stared at the empty wall for a while. She put away the sheets and her bass:

- These songs... it feels like I'll never finish them - And she lay back down on her bed, just as before

 

 

Scene 7

- Okay... it'll work out - She breathed deeply - it'll work out. 

Kieza was standing in her room, doing breathing exercises while repeating the same words to herself:

- In your own time. - Mary, in the corner of the room, with her arms crossed, watched the other woman

- okk... ok... - She took a few more breaths - I think I'm ready! - She looked at the puppet

- Really? There's no turning back - She walked away from the wall, walking towards Kieza.

- Yes! I want to finish this once and for all. 

- oh, very well then... give me your hand - She held out her hand

As soon as the woman obeyed, the other made a cut in her palm, enough for blood to flow:

- Don't stop. I'll need the blood. 

- okk - She'd lost some of her hope

Gradually, on the floor of the room, Mary drew some kind of symbol with Kieza's blood:

- Are you sure I'm not going to bleed to death? You're drawing a whole picture there...

- Have patience... - She rolled her eyes

After a while, the symbol seemed complete. Mary took the other woman's hand again, turning it over so that a drop of blood fell right in the middle of the symbol:

- Close your eyes.

That was the last thing Kieza heard. The silence that followed that sentence was deafening, and she couldn't help but feel anxious, restless. How much longer would she have to keep her eyes closed? She assumed the puppet would warn her, but hadn't that been enough? Wasn't it too long? These thoughts began to seize the woman's mind. Overcome by anxiety, she remembered her breathing exercises, and as soon as she started doing them, she seemed to be able to hear again. The light rustling of the trees, the crackling of her house, the sound of the wind through the windows, even her breathing, the beating of her heart. It was strange. It seemed as if she had never been able to hear these things before. Just as she was being able to appreciate this newly acquired "ability", an agonizing pain went through her whole body, her heart seemed to skip a few beats. Yes, she recognized that feeling. It was the same as when she drank those bizarre liquids. In fact, remembering the consistency of her blood when Mary used it... it was strangely similar to the liquids. Ahhhh, there was no point in making assumptions now. After the shrill pain, beneath her feet, where that symbol was supposed to be, Kieza could feel a slight warmth, which slowly increased. She remained diligent, not opening her eyes. Which, not long after, turned out to be useless. After all, the sound of an explosion is impossible not to recognize. 

At the same moment, Kieza opened her eyes in terror. How long had she kept her eyes closed? Before she could react, she realized that she was in mid-air. Not because she was flying, but because her house was breaking into shards, into rubble, and she no longer had any ground to stand on. Trying to regain some of her rationality, she analyzed the situation. It was complete chaos. She didn't know what the hell to do. Everywhere she looked, her house was being torn to pieces, everything she loved most, everything she had achieved with so much effort, was disappearing in an instant. And, as a reflex, she looked at the ground, where that symbol should have been. Ah, now it makes sense. From beneath her feet, where the ground once was, and a ritual made in blood, countless demons appeared. And then Kieza suddenly fell to the ground:

- FUCK! What the FUCK? Where's Mary????

Looking around, and watching the demons appear, something crossed her mind. No, that wouldn't be it, would it? She reluctantly brought her hand up to her forehead, where two large, sharp horns resided. She closed her eyes in disgust:

- I'm an idiot. 

And her vision went completely blurry.

.

.

.

- IT'S AN EMERGENCY!!! - Mary was running, desperate and panting, the complete opposite of her usual posture

Everyone in the bar looked at her, confused:

- hello? - Iro was the first to answer

- What now? - Zenska crossed her arms

- uhh... so... - She breathed quickly, trying to catch her breath

- Spit it out - Iro continued

- Did something happen? - Andou walked out of the staff room

- It's Mary... - Zenska replied

- MARY? - Mia also came out of the same room

- ok... I know this is weird - she giggled - but... I need your help.

- Hi? - Iro frowned in disbelief

- uhm... it's Kieza. 

- What about her? - The redhead seemed to lose patience

- she lost control. For some reason she tried to become a Demon and now... she's destroying everything!!! - She looked desperate, completely desperate

- WHAT? - Zenska shouted

- Calm down... let's stay calm - The leader was trying to calm the situation.

- That's why Kieza... - Mia was already worried.

- Where is she? - Andou approached the puppet

- at her house! We have to be quick, before she hurts herself or someone else!!!!

- If you're lying... - Iro said

- NO! I swear I'm not! - Mary refuted

The whole group followed the puppet, who took off running like a bullet:

- Did you see that? - Yuki entered the room

- What? - Mio immediately turned off the TV

- Uhm, it looks like it's Kieza's house... everything's destroyed, on fire.

- WHAT? Where did you see that???? 

- Uhhh, from the window. - She pointed in the direction

The other looked in the direction she had pointed, seeing, in the distance, what had once been a house, on fire and in ruins:

- WHAT?????? - She was in shock

- I hope she's all right... - She didn't seem affected at all

- I NEED TO SEE IF SHE'S ALL RIGHT! - Mio opened the door of the house and ran out.

- HEY! WAIT!!! - She barely managed to stop her sister - agh... don't get into any trouble, okay? 

The scene was frightening, perhaps even a little intimidating. Any mere mortal would turn away from that place on pure instinct; they didn't even have to get close to realize that the whole aura around that place was terrifying. Some parts of Kieza's house were still recognizable, for the rest, rubble and shrapnel seemed to line up at a single point, as if that was the source of it all. And right in the center was her. With her hands to her face, she seemed to be crying in despair as countless demons emerged from a kind of portal just below her:

- Zenska! Stay back - Iro said, realizing the situation

- ah... yes... - However, the woman was worried about her friend

- I'll stay here, too - Andou took a few steps back.

- It's just me and Iro? - Mia asked

- There's no time to call Aisa or Sora. If we hang around here a bit longer, Kieza... - Iro argued

- Okay... - She replied reluctantly - what should we do? 

- We have to get Kieza out of there and seal that symbol. I can do both. But I need you to control the demons. 

- Right! - She made her spear of water appear

Mia stood a little further back, while Iro drew a kind of rope, which lassoed Kieza and pulled her out of the circle. The woman didn't react. 

"Ughh, I can't lure the demons here. Iro needs to seal the symbol, so I'll have to distract the demons." - Mia thought - "That is. I'll have to get in the middle of it."

After thinking about it, the girl ran towards the portal, without much idea of what to do:

- At such times, someone like Xaphan or Kiri would help a lot! - She said as she attacked one of the creatures

- It's not too difficult! Just keep them busy for me - Iro crouched down in front of the symbol

- maybe... - Mia seemed to think of something

She gripped her spear tighter, shaping it to imitate the shape of Kirisaki's spear. Stretching the water chains between the spear's poles, Mia passed between some of the demons, trapping them with the spear itself:

- NICE! 

But there were too many to hold. It didn't take long for them to break free. Mia had to shape her spear into a common form. Luckily, dodging attacks had always been something she was very skilled at, so even though there were a lot of them, these simple demons were no big deal:

- How much longer is this going to take, Iro?

- Calm down! 

Mia, while dodging the attacks, tried to lure the creatures away from Iro, but the problem of the large numbers made this difficult. Even if one or the other followed, many were still left behind:

- Haaah, this is getting boring.

Mary, who until then had lagged behind Zenska and Andou, suddenly picked up her scythe, walking calmly towards Mia and Iro:

- Zenska, Andou. You'd better get away, as soon as Iro seals that symbol, a shockwave could hit you.

- Are you sure? - Andou said

- Yes - She turned towards them, looking at them

- ok... - Zenska looked reluctant

The two of them turned around, running away. After waiting for the two to disappear over the horizon, Mary turned towards those who remained. She leapt towards them and, with a single attack, turned all those demons to dust, falling right in front of Mia:

- finally decided to help, huh? 

- naah~ 

The puppet, with her green pupils, touched Iro's head and he fell hard to the ground. She looked at him without much reaction, with only those two large holes in her face, which she called eyes, staring at him:

- W..hat? - Mia's voice was already shaking, fearing what Mary was planning

- It's a pity none of those useless bastards managed to hurt you. You'll only make my job harder! - She leapt towards the girl

Mia managed to dodge deftly, as always, but she wasn't expecting an attack from behind:

- WHAT?!

It was Kieza, who until then had not stopped crying uncontrollably. Her eyes were entirely black, with their irises reddened, and what looked like blood dripping from them. It wasn't tears she was crying:

- Did you like my little present? - Mary smiled

- you... - she looked at her, irritated

- Well, I had a contract to fulfill - she looked at Iro - it's okay if Kieza kills you, right?

- YOU- 

- What's up? - Her smile distorted - ARE YOU GOING TO KILL YOUR OWN FRIEND??? - And then, in disarray, she attacked Mia non-stop

The poor girl barely managed to dodge the puppet's attacks and was already being attacked by Kieza. She was simply incapable of trying anything. She wouldn't last long like this:

- COME ON MIA!!! I want to see you murder your friend!!! Go on, perform this show for me!

- no. I'd rather die!

- OH, HAHAHAHAH! WELL DIE, THEN! - She continued her incessant attacks

- Kieza...? - She turned to her friend - can you hear me? - She looked into her eyes

Without an answer, the woman couldn't act in her right mind, she was completely lost:

- Kieza, listen to me... please - Her eyes were trembling with worry.

- useless. - Mary replied

With her guard down, out of concern for her friend, Mia was kicked in the back, causing her to roll on the floor. She was already exhausted:

- Oh, how pointless. Not even to die in a dignified manner - The puppet walked on, slowly

- Kill me, then - She tried to get up

- Kie...za? - It was Mio

The woman, who had finally arrived on the scene, barely noticed Mary and Mia. She became static the moment she saw the state Kieza was in. Incredibly, the other woman seemed to have heard that, slowly turning her face towards her:

- what... happened?

Mary and Mia looked in her direction, perplexed:

- so she can hear you - Mary muttered

In that little slip of the puppet's, where she stopped paying attention to Mia, the girl stood up and attacked her with everything she had, almost throwing herself on top of her:

- OW! YOU MOTHERFUCK-

Mia had slammed Mary's head so hard against the floor that cracks began to appear. She did all this with a dead look on her face:

- oh, yes. That's what I wanted to see! YOUR TRUE FA-

Before she could finish the sentence, another thud against the floor. Her vision began to blur, it was hard to think:

- hghhg... damn!

Gathering up the rest of her strength, she pushed the girl off her and ran like a shot, disappearing into the darkness. Mia stood up and looked in the direction of Mio and Kieza, the two of them staring at each other, completely static. And then, on the horizon, an unknown and unrecognizable figure appeared. It appeared to be a female silhouette, although completely covered by a hood. Her presence, however, would be hard to forget. The girl looked at Iro, who was still passed out, and ran towards him:

- ahh... AaaAhh - Kieza mumbled, with her hands on her face

Mia struggled to lift the man, while keeping her eyes on Kieza:

- AAHHH... AAAAAAHHH!!! - Her screams got louder and louder, as she pulled so hard on her horns and skin that she scratched herself

- come..on... Iro. - She dragged him away, trying to lift him up

Mio was static, in shock, not reacting, as she watched Kieza lose her sanity completely:

- AAAAAH.... AAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!!!!! - Her legs lost strength and she fell to her knees on the floor. More blood dripped from her eyes.

Mia was finally able to carry Iro, placing him on her back. She took one last look back, seeing Kieza, her friend, in a state of complete insanity, and Mio, also her friend, just watching the scene. She closed her eyes bitterly. The hooded figure that had been on the horizon before was approaching the scene. Mia ran out of there:

- AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!

Kieza was screaming in agony, pain, hatred and regret. It was a mixture of terrible feelings. The remnant of sanity inside her was unable to bear it all. Perhaps she really should let herself be controlled:

- AAAGGHH! AAAAAAAAAAAAGHGH!!! AAAAAAAAHAHHHHHHHH!!!

Completely oblivious to the situation, the hooded figure enters the middle of the other two women. She pulls down her hood. Revealing long reddish hair with a few black strands, one red eye and one yellow eye, imitating a clock. As if she were Kirisaki, but a few years older. The woman pulls out a flintlock pistol and points it at Mio's forehead, who doesn't even react. Kieza, however, reacts when she sees this. She takes her hands away from her face and looks at it, startled. She seemed to have regained some of her consciousness:

- Chokmah - The trigger was pulled, completely piercing Mio's forehead. 

- MIO!!!!!! - Kieza, who seemed to be conscious, shouted

- Geburah - Another shot

- NO! - She ran towards Mio, who soon fell to the ground, unconscious

The figure just looked at the scene, without showing much reaction. She covered her face with her hood and disappeared over the horizon:

- MIOO... Mioo... mio.... - Kieza held the woman's body in her arms, this time crying tears

She leaned her face against Mio's chest, crying:

- come back, come back, come back....

She repeated this, almost like a chant, a ritual, in complete despair:

- come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back...

Neither of the two women noticed, but a glow began to emerge from Kieza's horns, growing brighter every time the word "back" was said:

- come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back, come back...

It seemed that the heavens had heard Kieza's pleas, the light from her horns becoming so strong that the two women had become invisible. And after a while, while only her cries could be heard, the light was gone. And then, where there had once been two large horns, there were only two scars, and where the bullet had pierced Mio's forehead, another scar had remained. In the midst of tears, Kieza also lost consciousness.

 

 

Scene 8

In the staff room of the Ocurrens bar, the atmosphere was very heavy:

- I hate it.

Zenska was sitting in one of the chairs, crestfallen:

- Yeah... I know what you mean - Andou was leaning against the wall, arms crossed

- Sometimes I wonder why I even take part in the meetings, if I'm just useless. Even you are more useful than me, Andou. Not even Kieza is a Human anymore! It's just me.

- Even if you can't help in battle, that doesn't mean you're useless. You know that, right?

- This little talk doesn't work, don't even start - She looked down

- But...

- I want to be quiet. 

The room was filled with a terrible silence, which didn't last long:

- WE'VE ARRIVED!!!!!! - Sora opened the door, bursting with energy

- Sora... I don't think this is the time for that - Aisa was right behind her

- AH! You've arrived, good - Andou looked relieved

- So... can you give any details? - The older woman sat down on one of the chairs

- Well... - the man glanced at Zenska, who was still frowning - according to Mary, Kieza tried to turn into a Demon and ended up losing control. Although we're not sure if Mary is involved in this, she warned us in time to prevent any disaster. 

- Mia and Iro stayed behind, along with Mary. At first Andou and I were advised to stay behind, but then Mary said it was better if we just went back. 

- There's something strange about that, huh... - Sora was sitting on the table

- Yeah... that attitude is too sudden for someone like Mary - Aisa added.

- Yes, I agree with that too - Andou said - but we're not Iro who can spot lies. And if he believed Mary... maybe she wasn't lying.

- It makes sense... still - The older woman had one hand on her chin - isn't it dangerous to leave Mia and Iro alone with Mary?

- They're both strong - Zenska commented

- Fair enough - Sora replied

The room fell silent again, Aisa got up and started to make some tea:

- It's chamomile, good for calming down. Sora, you can get some cookies, they're in that cupboard - And she pointed in the direction

- OKK!!! - She got down from the table and began to do as she had been asked

While the group ate calmly, trying to lighten the heavy atmosphere, after a while, they were able to hear some commotion:

- Ah! Someone has entered the bar - the door bell had rung

- It must be Iro and Mia!

Sora was the quickest and soon opened the door to the staff room, luckily or not, they came across Mia, struggling to carry Iro. She was dragging him on the floor, visibly exhausted:

- Ahh... can you... help me? - She was panting

- MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!?? - Sora was in shock

- What happened? - Andou promptly ran towards Mia, holding Iro up.

- Here, a glass of water - Aisa offered, while also pulling up a chair - sit down.

Mia sat down, drank the water and took a deep breath, regaining her posture. Iro was gently placed on a sofa. Everyone in the room looked at her expectantly:

- soo... Mary tried to kill me, as expected... and before that, she touched Iro and he just fell... hard! Ahmm... and then... - She was clearly nervous - then Kieza started freaking out and screaming, so I grabbed Iro and got out of there. But before I did, Mio appeared and stared at Kieza, standing there. Then a strange person appeared. I was tired and scared, so I didn't have the courage to look back - She closed her eyes - but.... I heard two gunshots.

Everyone was in shock, in complete silence:

- I don't know... who that person was, and I don't know if Mio and Kieza are all right... sorry...

- No! No, you did very well! - Aisa gently placed one of her hands on the girl's back - your safety first! 

- So... what should we do? - Zenska asked - should we wait for Iro to wake up?

- I don't know... should we go back and check on them? - Andou said

- I think some of us will stay here and look after Iro and the rest of us will go after Mio and Kieza - Aisa took action

- I want to go after them! - Zenska said, almost instantly

- Are you sure? - Aisa asked

- Kieza is her best friend - Andou replied

- Right... so, I think it's best if Mia stays here, she's exhausted - Andou continued

- And if Aisa stays here, looking after Mia and Iro. Me, Andou and Zenska go? 

- That's fine! - Andou said

 

 

Scene 9

The smell is familiar, this scene too, all these sequences of actions. How many times had I relived that same day? She was up in a tree, sitting on top of the branches. The war was still going on, the Commander of Olympus had recently been replaced, maybe it would all finally be over. Not that it mattered. What mattered most was the well-being of her older sister, who had been missing for a few months. Mio deduced that she had probably been taken by the Humans. Ah, and what bad luck, eh? 

In the distance, Mio was able to see Yuki, covered in bandages, full of bruises, an eye patch over her right eye. The girl was running in desperation, panting, and at the same moment Mio climbed down from the tree to meet her sister:

- MIO! - The girl screamed, panting

- YUKII! YOU'RE OK! - She finally reached her

- We don't have time! - She quickly grabbed the younger girl's arm as they ran together

- What happened? - She was worried

- I managed to escape! But they've realized that, and they're coming after me!!! We need to hide!

Mio was able to get a better look at her sister. Her hair was messy, her clothes dirty, her skin covered in scars, cuts, bruises, bandages... not to mention that there was a LOT of blood. So much that she couldn't even tell the difference between Yuki's own blood and that of other people. Not to mention the visible tiredness in the girl's eyes, the malnutrition... how many things had she been through? In respect for all this, she silently followed her sister:

- Here... here... I think you can hide for a while.

 The two of them entered an abandoned house, which was already falling apart due to the war:

- we may have to spend the night here, our life will be difficult... but... 

Mio looked into her sister's eyes, or now only into one. She took a deep breath:

- There's nowhere else to go, Mio...

She began to look through her sister's bruises, trying to find something to help:

- It's no use... 

- I know what to do, Yuki! It's okay, it's okay! - She'd finally said something

- stop - she suddenly became angry

- No, I can handle it myself! 

Searching through her clothes for something, she kept a smile on her face:

- MIO! 

- it's going to be okay, Yuki - she said as she hugged her sister tightly

- you... honestly... - her voice slowly weakened

- it's okay, it's okay... 

- the world would be better without you, Mio.

- I know... 

Mio looked at her sister's dead body, right in front of her. Both of their stomachs were stained, as were her hands and, of course, the knife she had used. Yuki's neck also had a large amount of blood on it.

How many times had she revisited that same, bloody, day? It always came back to haunt her. But for some reason, this time, everything was strangely vivid. As she looked at her own bloodied hands, the warmth of the fresh blood on her skin, the typical iron smell, the dust created by the rubble, the texture of her clothes. Even the sight of Yuki's body, which was slowly losing color. It was all too much to bear. As if she were living it all over again. 

And she lost track of time, of how long she just watched that body. Originally, she hadn't done that, buried the body and run off, aimlessly. But this time... she had stayed there. Keeping her sister's corpse company.

.

.

.

- You're finally awake, huh?

She was in one of the coziest laps she'd ever laid in. It reminded her of her mother's. However, when she finally opened her eyes and could see who was the owner of the lap, it was obvious that it wasn't her mother:

- Mia... 

- Good morning, Mio... how are you feeling?

She looked around. She seemed to be in the living room of Mia's house, lying on the sofa:

- where am I... what happened? - She got up

- ah, ah, ah - She put one of her hands under Mio's chest, forcing her to lie down - you're at my house. After you went after Kieza, while she was going crazy, you ended up being shot twice - she said this, while gently running her hand over a scar in the middle of Mio's forehead - the person remains unknown. After that, you and Kieza fainted. 

- How long has it been?

- You've both been asleep for a day. There's no need to worry, your body spent a lot of energy healing, so it's only natural that you needed to rest.

- Where's Kieza? Is she all right? - She tried to get up again

- she's been sleeping in my room ever since... unlike you, she seems to be taking a while to wake up - Mia didn't stop her this time

- I need to go and see her - She sat down on the sofa, then got up

- You know where my room is, would you like some help? - She gave up trying to stop her

- Come with me...

- ok - She gave a slight smile

The two went upstairs and Mia slowly opened the door to her room, letting the other enter first:

- It's better if we don't stay so long, she needs to rest...

- Oh my God! - Mio had her hands over her mouth in shock

- I know - she sighed.

Kieza was sleeping peacefully, but at each end of her forehead, there were two large scars:

- Her horns seem to have disappeared... but... 

- she's okay, right?

- Yes. It's just that she's been through a traumatic event, had her Human body forced into becoming a Demon, and has been forced to heal like this...

- It'll take her a while to wake up.

- Yes, that's right - She opened the bedroom door - Kiri is preparing lunch. You'd better eat a lot.

 

 

Scene 10

- Are you sure?

They were gathered in the bar's staff room:

- Yes... I've already made good money. For the rest, I can live off part-time jobs and small jobs, and I want to focus 100% on my studies. It was only a matter of time... a big part of why I was still here was because of you... and today that's no longer the case.

Zenska was sitting on one of the chairs, Iro was in front of her, standing with his arms crossed:

- I haven't told anyone, but at the end of the year I plan to take the law entrance exam. I want to go to university next year. And, not to mention... I've never been much use in meetings - she smiled slightly 

Iro watched her in complete silence. He let out a long sigh:

- All right, Zen... 

- huh? - She lifted her face in surprise - It's been a while since you've called me that.

- I'm just feeling nostalgic - He giggled - I'm going to miss you, you know?

- yeah.. - She smiled a little - I think I will too... 

- I'm going to give you a contribution. 

- Huh? You don't have to! Really - she was embarrassed

- Don't worry! It's my way of saying thank you. 

Just then, Andou entered the room:

- Hey, Andou! - Iro greeted him - Zen is quitting! 

- WHAT? - He was shocked

- You could have been more smooth... - she said, embarrassed.

- Calm down, what's all this about? - Andou was confused

- Ahh... I've been thinking about it since that day about Kieza... so I also want to focus on my studies... 

- Ah... I see - he replied, looking sad - I'll miss you... 

- Don't worry about it! It's not like I'm not going to see you anymore, you know. 

- WAIT! - He went to the corner of the room, picking up a bag - I bought this shirt the other day, but it was a bit tight on me.

- ...and? - Zenska was confused

- It's a present! - He handed over the bag

- uhm.... - She looked at him, confused

- Aren't you a lesbian? I think you'll like it!

- HEY! Damn - she picked up the bag - give me this!

- Hmm? - Iro watched them both, confused - is she a lesbian?

- Yes - They both answered, Zenska in particular had a despondent look on her face

- huh.

- Yeah, Iro, dating you was so traumatizing that I turned gay.

- WHAAAAAT??????????

Andou and Zenska laughed. And, adding to the lively atmosphere, a rather loud conversation began inside the bar:

- It sounds like Aisa and Sora's voice - Iro commented

- Since everyone's gathered around, why don't you tell them too, Zenska?

The three of them left the room and walked into the middle of Mia, Aisa and Sora's conversation:

- Guys! Zenska has something very important to say - Iro said

- uhh, that's a nice way of cutting the mood, Iro? - She replied - So... guys... I'm quitting. I want to focus on my studies, and I've never been much use in meetings. It's for the best...

- WHAT? - Sora looked sad

- Oh, that's too bad. - Aisa also looked a bit sad

- NOOOO - Mia hugged Zenska - I'll miss you... 

- Well, it's very important, too, to focus on a university - Aisa commented - What do you want to do?

- Law!

- WOOOWW! - Sora reacted - THAT'S SICK!

- Hey, don't swear - the older woman scolded her

- In that case, take these - Mia picked up a small bag from the counter - they're butter cookies!!! I made them! - She handed them to Zenska

- Ah, so we're giving out souvenirs... - Aisa was thinking - I have a very large book at home, which details some of the most common court cases. It might interest you.

- Why would you read that? - Mia asked 

- General knowledge.

- I don't think that's general knowledge - she replied.

- Yes, I do, Aisa! 

- Hey! I'll feel left out if it's like this!!! - Sora complained 

- Hmm, Sora, you always braid your hair beautifully. You can teach me some! - Zenska commented

- OH, YOU THINK SO? Thank you~ - She seemed pleased

A few more days passed:

- I don't know, you just don't think it's weird? 

Yuki was sitting on a chair, leaning on the back of it with her legs between her. Mio was standing:

- Oh... what else could I do? - She had one hand on her face

- Look, I'm just saying. But calling that woman home, before moving in with your boyfriend, is a bit strange, I'd say. If Phaniel's cool with it, he's the simp... - She shrugged

- Yuki. You're to blame for Phaniel and I not living together yet, and you know it. Besides, Kieza's homeless, she has nowhere else to stay. And we have a spare bed in my room! 

- I'm not stopping you, I'm just saying that it's strange... I don't know what kind of rumors are going around. 

- I just want to help my friend. Nobody's saying she's going to live here forever, it's just temporary, okay? She's lost everything. 

- It's fine, it's fine. Do what you want. It's your house - And she got up

- hah.. - She watched her sister walk away - that's the only thing you and Phaniel agree on. Why do you hate Kieza so much?

 

 

Scene 11

Now at Mia's house, Kieza had spent these weeks recovering. Since her house had been blown up, and all her belongings had been lost, she was completely without a place to go. She still had to get used to her "new" reflection in the mirror: red eyes and two huge scars on her forehead. Luckily, she still had some money saved up, but it still wasn't enough to rent a house. It was just enough to buy basic belongings, such as clothes, food, household utensils... oh, why did she have to accept that deal with Mary? While she was pondering these things, she heard a conversation in the living room and immediately went downstairs when she recognized the voice:

- Mio? - She said in surprise

- Kieza. - She answered, looking in the woman's direction

- THANK GOD YOU'RE ALL RIGHT! - She ran over and gave her a hug 

Since that event a few weeks ago, Mio and Kieza hadn't seen each other. It took Kieza a few more days to wake up, and her whole recovery took a long time. In all that time, apart from not leaving Mia and Kirisaki's house, she didn't receive any visitors. After all, her health was really poor:

- It's good to see you well, too - Mio hugged her back

- What are you doing here? - She let go of the hug

- So, your house has been completely destroyed... until you find a new place to live... how about living at my home? There's a spare bed in my room, and I'm used to looking after Yuki, so I don't think you'd be any worse than her!

- Calm down, is this serious? 

- Yes!!! Of course, if you don't feel comfortable, that's fine. But... I don't know if other people will have space for you. 

- No! It's not a problem. Yes, I accept! - She smiled

- Aw really? That's great! I'm so happy! When are you moving?

- I don't have any belongings, you know. Everything has been lost. 

- Ah... true... 

- I'm sorry to intrude - Mia, who was there the whole time, finally said something - but how about taking advantage of the beautiful day and doing some shopping for Kieza? 

- Good idea, Mia! - Mio replied - And then, it's not like there's much to "move", so you can sleep at home now!

- Mia, thank you so much for looking after me all this time!!! - She gave her a tight hug

- Ahahaha - she was embarrassed - you're welcome! It's the least, you've done a lot for me.

- Still, I'll pay you back! I promise!

- Okay... then - She gave a sweet smile - Anyway, go, go, enjoy this moment!

- Ahm, ok... ok - Kieza looked at Mia, embarrassed

- Come on, Kieza! - Mio was already heading for the door - Bye Mia, see you later!!!

- Bye Miaa!

The two women then went out into the city, the first thing they looked for was a new cell phone for Kieza. After that, they both had to buy new clothes:

- Yuki could lend you some...

- I don't know if they'd fit me... in terms of volume, I'm more like you, even though I'm taller than you...

- Then it would be easier for me to lend you one - She laughed

- But don't worry. 

All the stores in the city had been visited, which may seem like a lot, but for a place that had barely recovered from the ravages of war, there weren't that many clothes stores. At least a considerable amount of clothes were bought:

- I realized you like one-piece outfits - Mio commented - Bodies, dresses, overalls, dungarees... 

- Oh yes! - Kieza said, as she looked through some racks

- Well, if you don't find anything in this store, we've already bought enough - She looked at a large number of bags in both of their hands - speaking of which... you also like green and blue, don't you? 

- Yes! - She smiled - Did you notice that too?

- They're my favorite colors, too - She smiled back

- Great! You can lend me your clothes too, hehe...

- Hey! I'll only lend them to you if you lend me yours!

As well as clothes, Kieza also wanted to buy some accessories, rings, earrings and even hair accessories. She also made a point of buying shampoos, conditioners and finishers for her hair, since it's very big and curly:

- I admire that - she said

- What? - The taller one replied

- I mean, taking care of straight hair is a thousand times easier, you know. Phaniel also has curly hair, and no matter how much he straightens it or dreads it, it's still a lot of work! 

- I can teach you how to look after it... 

- Hm? 

- Ah, who knows! It's romantic to look after your partner's hair... - She looked away

- Hahahaha - She laughed - true... you're right! In that case, I want to do yours too.

- AH - I can just teach you, for Phaniel. 

- Hmm but that was my way of thanking you.

- For what?

- It was because of you, you know? - She pointed to her scar in the middle of her forehead - that I'm alive now. I imagine you used all the magic in your horns to heal the hole in my forehead. That's why my scar is much more subtle than yours...

- So, Mio... - Both left the store

- Oh, can we go to the market? 

- Okay - Pause - So... I didn't want to be the one to say this to you, but... it's already strange to call me to your house, when you don't even live with Phaniel.

Upon hearing this, Mio closed her eyes:

- I know it's just your way, you've always been kind to the extreme... but I don't want to be the cause of rumors about you being spread around.

- Yuki said the same thing - she sighed - but I'm just helping a friend. It's no big deal! Even Phaniel didn't seem to mind.

- If you say... - She looked away - then you can't blame me. 

 

 

Scene 12

- That's why I decided to leave the meetings. While I was staying at Mia's, Kirisaki offered me a job and I thought it was more plausible.

- Hey, hey, hey, slow down!!! - Iro said - What job is that?

- At the Ministry of Control. I'm not Human anymore, I don't know if I have any kind of power. Kiri offered to help me with that if I also helped with her work. Of course, I don't have to work in the same field as her if I don't have any powers. But... they pay a lot better... and I need it.

- Eh... I get it - He sighed - without you and Zen here, it'll be sadder. I'll send you some compensation.

- Zenska left too? 

- Yes... recently - He giggled

- Well, Cheng is quiet, I don't know if Mary will make any other moves... and Xaphan is quiet too. There's not much reason to have a lot of people at meetings, and she and I have never been much help. Of course, if you need help in the bar, just call me!

- True! Before you went, what was all that about with Mary? When she called us to where you were, the only lie I detected was her saying that she "didn't know why" you'd gone mad.

- She manipulated me. I imagine so that she could attack Mia without breaking her contract with you. 

- And what did you get in return?

- Exactly what I got - She smiled - Mio's attention.

Iro looked at Kieza for a long time:

- Don't tell me, you don't know how I feel?

- heh... yeah... I understand. I'm not going to judge you, I think I'd do the same - he laughed - in fact, depending on how you look at it, maybe I've already done the same.

- We're even.

- Look - he was looking for something in the living room - we had prepared this as a welcome gift, but I think it's going to be a goodbye... - He handed over a basket, full of sweets and even some wine

- Wow! Thank you so much - She gave him a hug 

- You've been a great waitress and a great friend. Thank you, Kieza. 

- Well, I can still see you, so it's not a farewell. 

- I've got a bad feeling about this - said Andou, as he entered the room.

- Andou, you're right - Iro replied

- First Zenska, then you?

- Sorry... - She laughed awkwardly

- I understand, after everything that's happened. So, are you going to work somewhere?

- The Ministry of Control, Kirisaki invited me.

- Oops, perfect! I go there every now and then! I'll still be able to catch up on all the gossip you used to tell me.

- Hey, hey, friends share! - Iro said - I want to know the gossip too!

- Relax. I'm still going to tell you. Maybe I'll visit the bar once in a while just to gossip, hm?

- I'm up for it! 

- Are you making plans? - Mia entered the room - Ah, Andou, Aisa's calling you.

- Thanks, Mia! - He left 

- So, what happened? Ah, Kieza! Did you like the welcome gift?

- So, Mia, I kind of changed it to a farewell present.

- HELLO?

- Yeah... Kieza's leaving, too.

- Ah - she didn't seem that surprised - although, I heard when Kiri called her to the Ministry of Control. I suppose she accepted?

- Yes! They pay more... but we agreed that I'd still visit the bar... to gossip... - She laughed

- Did I hear that right? Is Kieza also leaving the meetings? - Aisa entered the room with Andou

- Did everyone get together? - She answered, surprised 

- Would you look at that? - Iro said - HEY! Andou, you have to get back to work!

- Just me???? Mia too! 

- Well... 

- That's favoritism!!! 

- All right, Andou, let's get back to work - Mia said - Iro, you need to get back to work too - She laughed

- Yeah, yeah! 

- Kieza, it's good to see you well! - Aisa approached her as soon as everyone had left the room

- Thank you, Aisa - she smiled

- If you need any help finding a new house, or financial help, please count on me and Sora! - She looked around - oh, where is she, by the way? 

- She didn't come into the room with you.

- Oh, that girl! 

- Hahaha, give her a break!

- Well, Kieza, I have to go. But please, keep coming back to visit us - She hugged her and then said goodbye.

 

 

Scene 13

Another day, she was dragged to Ocurrens with Aisa. She was going to say hello to Andou and her other friends. This was never a problem for Sora, of course, as they were also her friends, but it was also tiring to watch. After Zenska's departure, only Kieza was left. The only one there who also suffered from love. 

 

"- And what did you get in return?

- Exactly what I got. Mio's attention. Don't tell me, you don't know how I feel?"

 

She accidentally ended up eavesdropping on the conversation between Kieza and Iro, while Andou and Aisa stayed in their own little world. So Kieza gambled everything, just for the crumbs of attention? Had Iro done something like that too? It made her think. Maybe she should do the same. She wasn't feeling so well, so she ended up going home. She went upstairs and sat on her bed. She kept braiding her hair while staring at the ceiling. This happened every time she got thoughtful, and it had become more common. She had been considering taking action towards Yuki, and now, with this conversation between Iro and Kieza... maybe she should do the same. Look, Iro did something and managed to date Mia, Kieza made that contract and now lives in the same house as Mio... maybe... if Sora made an effort too... It was almost October 2017... She was going to be 21 and Yuki 27. The age difference was never a problem, I wish that was the only problem!

- I just wanted... your eyes to be on me.

Deep down, Sora knew the answer, but she wanted to ignore it. She would ignore it like the other answers inside her. One she had accepted: she liked Yuki. But with that came another question: does Yuki like me? And that one, she almost had the answer to, it was kind of obvious, everyone knew, but she didn't want to accept it. Look, Mia hated Iro for 8 months, but today they're dating. Mio is dating Phaniel, but for some reason she invited Kieza to move in with her before her boyfriend did. So... Yuki may not like Sora now... but things can change, can't they?

- I hate all this. I just wanted it to end once and for all.

But that wasn't the only reason she ignored her feelings. This question was triggered by Kieza, but stopped by Yuki:

- When you see your reflection, are you expected to identify something? What can I call gender?

Both men's and women's clothes fit Sora well. And she felt good in both. The same went for pronouns. For a while she also wondered about her name, but it was already androgynous enough. But... why didn't she tell anyone? Perhaps it was because of the indifference, not just from Yuki, but from everyone, when Kieza suffered transphobia. Because of how normal everyone acted when they heard so much hatred aimed at someone. She was afraid. Sora was afraid that Yuki would have acted the same way if she had been the victim. Worse, what if Yuki didn't like it? Then, if her chances were already low, they would become even lower. Why did it have to be this way? Why did she have to like Yuki so much? Why did she have to feel that way?

 

 

Scene 14

- You're useless. Didn't I tell you not to interrupt my plans? 

Mary was visibly shaken, full of cracks in her porcelain, and many of her strings were cut. She was lying on the floor:

- I didn't think taking the hourglass would bother you... - she replied.

- hah - They held up the hourglass - yeah, maybe I forgot to warn you - They laughed

- So... you could spare me - Her eyes glowed green.

- Don't try to manipulate me - They plunged a dagger into one of Mary's eyes.

The puppet squirmed in pain:

- I gave you a chance, Mary, and you threw it away. I have no reason to spare you. Cheng will do a better job than you.

- Cheng alone isn't enough - She was panting - and you know it - Her smile was distorted

- Yes - They smiled - that's why I'm going to have to... rely on other means.

- Who...?

- Hmm - Their smile widened - I can spare you, if you give me enough information. I can't observe Dìxía as closely as I'd like.

- What do you want to know? - She tried to get up

- In the end, Mio didn't die, right?

- That's right.

- Who stopped her?

- It seemed to be a future version of Mia. Not to mention that a future version of Kirisaki had also appeared.

- Huh... - They crossed their arms 

- I think they both came from another timeline, where Mio had died, and some butterfly effect was generated. They must have gotten out of there and decided to stop that future. 

- It's likely...

- But they've already left this timeline, they've gone to another one - She was still trying to stand up, but it was very difficult.

- Good. What about Yuki? 

- There's nothing special about her attitude. What's more, she and Sora spend some time together, and she goes to the bar almost every night. Although it's definitely Sora who's been acting strange.

Upon hearing this, the woman reacted in a positive way. They turned their back to Mary:

- Okay. The end of the year is coming soon - They were looking at a kind of mural

- If you don't mind me asking, who are the people you'll be calling? I think I can do a better job than them. 

- Hahahaha - They laughed - it's impossible - They smiled, turning their face towards the puppet - both of them do a job that, honestly, not even Cheng comes close to. Oh, and besides - They crouched down, approaching Mary - I told you, you're useless.

- But... didn't you say you'd spare me? - She tried to get up, in desperation 

- What? - They grabbed the rest of her strings, immobilizing her - do you REALLY think I'm that merciful? - They laughed out loud - Mary... I never thought of sparing you, you were always just another pawn!

- I curse you.

- Do as you please...

The woman, holding onto the puppet's strings, threw it against the wall. More cracks appeared, and her face distorted:

- just finish her off once and for all - They weren't talking to Mary

As the figure looked at that mural again, at the back of the room, cries of despair and help echoed:

- Nothing out of the ordinary for the moment. Everything is going according to plan - Their two hands were behind their back

The screams stopped:

- Is it over? - They looked back

- Yes, but killing a puppet is no fun at all.

It was Cheng, who bowed slightly. She walked away, leaving only Mary's body, entirely cracked, broken and disfigured. The only thing recognizable there were the two huge holes in her face, which had once been her "eyes". The woman looked at the mural again:

- Let's see... it shouldn't take long - They smiled

They also left the room. Leaving the room empty, where there was only a broken puppet and a wall full of newspaper articles, papers, notes and photos. The room was very poorly lit, and its monochrome color contributed to this. The woman followed long, narrow corridors, which didn't seem to be painted in any visible color, they just seemed to distort reality, or they distorted reality to fit the three-dimensional format. They walked the whole way with a smile on their face:

- but I must be patient. Until she takes off that eye patch, I can't show myself.

 

 

Final Scene 

 So another year passed and soon 2018 would arrive. Thanks to everyone's efforts, Mio hadn't died, and a calamity had been stopped. Even though Mia had also tried to commit suicide, and Kieza had made that contract with Mary, who was now dead. In between, 2.0 had also finally been killed. Now Future could go on to the next timelines, following the same plan and eventually erasing the future where Mio is dead:

- So now you're finally going to reveal to me who you are? 

Even after the events with Kieza, Future still stayed in Dìxía for a while longer. She was talking to that hooded figure:

- Well, since you asked me so nicely... 

The woman pulled down her hood. Her hair was long and reddish, with a lock of black bangs. A watch-like yellow eye:

- I missed you, Mia.

- Kirisaki? - Future was static, she couldn't believe her eyes

- I've given up that name, although Mia is no longer your name either. I'll call you Future now, and you can call me Sakura.

- Heh - she smiled bitterly - I didn't think you were alive. When I went after your body, all I saw were ashes, and in the middle was your condensed soul... - She closed her eyes - which, by the way, you destroyed. Without even WARNING ME! Do you have any idea HOW sad that made me? 

- I'm sorry, I'm sorry~ but you wouldn't need that, since I'm all here, would you? 

- Yeah, yeah, you're right - She crossed her arms - but how did you come back to life?

- I'm a phoenix, have you forgotten, dear?

- AHHHH - She was surprised again - it makes sense - She laughed with relief - I was such an idiot!

- Good. Now we can go out and do our work together, hm? 

- Yeah, I don't think I have another job in this timeline. And you, have you played enough with that gun of yours?

- For now, yes - she smiled slightly - my Kiri isn't ready yet. After a few years, I'll come back and see how she's doing.

- I hope Mia's still alive by then - She sighed - She's a lot more suicidal than I thought. 

- Look, you've always been like this. - She patted her on the back

- HEY! But not so much... common.

Now that all the problems had finally been solved, they could relax. Of course not. It's obvious:

- What's up? - The girl ran down the corridor, trying to catch up with the other one

- What?

The woman had long white hair:

- did something happen? - She turned towards the girl

- I'm just curious! They didn't do their job properly, so... 

The girl had short, pink hair:

- we'll go there in person - she smiled

- Calm down, are you serious? - Another woman entered the scene

- Yes... I told you, didn't I?

This one had black hair:

- ahhh, what a drag. 

- But you'll have to go along. Both of you!

- OK! I'm going!

And elsewhere, two women were also talking:

- Did you see that? - She threw a card on the table

- I saw it... 

- Who does she think she is?

- It can't hurt, can it? It'll be interesting...

- Hah! We can do whatever we want, can't we? I very much doubt it... 

- Well, we're not so weak, so..

- You're right. It's not that hard to cause a bit of terror.

Once again, it seemed that the city of Dìxía would never have peace. Even if none of the residents had any idea of it. After all, they were much more concerned about the end-of-year celebrations than these "possible problems". 2018 was beginning, a new page, a blank year. Who would care about such things? It was just time to have fun, enjoy your family, friends and loved ones!