A/N: Hey just a quick one cuz I'll do another one of these at the end. But this is a little bit of a trigger warning again just in case you missed the last one. This chapter does have certain things like homophobia, bullying and the like. If that sort of stuff triggers you or you feel that its getting a little too much for you. Don't worry I put in some gaps in to help signify that kind of stuff, you don't need to force yourself to read it if it does trigger you. Is what I wrote worth the warning? I don't know but its better to look like an idiot and fail rather than not warn and potentially have consequences. Other than that, enjoy the chapter.

Mitsuko and LingQi made their outside of the forest and rest on a log overlooking the lake. If it wasn't for the carvings on the tree trunks you would never have thought a fight never broke out. It was serene and calm, just like how Mitsuko liked it. The earth was softened after the brief drizzle. The two sat in silence as the moon shone above them and with the lake casting its majestic reflection. Mitsuko fidgeted a bit, she wasn't sure how to explain her situation in a different timeline.

'So the truth is I'm not actually a part of this timeline. I actually came from the future…a time yet to be so to speak.'

'If that's so, how did you get here?' LingQi asked.

'Well…I kinda got dragged down by a giant water snake from a lake who offered me strength which I accepted.' Mitsuko states, she doesn't know how to make it sound believable so she just states it and hopes for the best.

'How come? Were you not strong before?' LingQI questioned curious as to why she would leave her home and everything behind her.

'Its…well…a little complicated. My time is a lot different to this one here. Different atmosphere. For one there's less death. At least where I was from. It was peaceful, paved roads everywhere, buildings that look as high as the sky, torches without the use of flames, carriages without horses. Technology has really advanced since this time.' Mitsuko chuckles, she's been here so long she could barely remember the sounds of traffic jams, the hustle and bustle of the city. The rushed nature of everyone rushing and complaining about traffic jams and the same old stuff.

'Heh, its funny. Everyone there was constantly stressed by one thing or another of all ages. Adults needed to go to work to provide for their family, children need to get good grades to get good jobs for the future. Whereas here, despite the fact everyone here is fighting for survival in the most literal sense its more relaxed to an extent. Sounds weird I know. But I genuinely feel more relaxed here than I ever did back at my own time.'

'Sounds…different. But you have peace back where you come from right?'

'For the most part, there are a few places where this stuff happens but where I lived it for the most part was peaceful. Though there is a caveat, the people in charge make the people down below feel really weak, its about how wealthy you are and who you know to get by in that world relatively unscathed. It could just be me but I think they all felt powerless by everything. So they turn to crime, harming people using their fears to justify their causes.'

'Like bandits?'

'…Yeah like bandits, that's a good way to describe them.' Mitsuko responded as she remembered various new reports of gang and violent crime in general on the rise. She clenched the jaws of her snake tightly as she began to remember just how bad the situation was.

'The people in charge that people elect, they don't do a good job. They may have done once upon a time but now…it's a mess. They abuse, bribe and manipulate the minds of the common people and when they win it turns out they were just spewing out bullshit and push their own agendas for their own personal gains. Plus when everyone finds out they lied its not like they can do anything about it. Even when they say they do they don't in the end, everyone just accepts it. Accepts their fate like they're scared or they don't care. Maybe there's things I just don't see, maybe they're just trying their best and the best they can do is fuck things up for other people. I don't know. But what I do know is that goddamn system made me feel so weak and powerless that I felt I couldn't do anything. Everyone gets the idea of a perfect person drilled into them when they're really young. Which is fine but that lets other people exploit them! Hurt them, makes them suffer and they feel like they can't do anything to fight back.' Mitsuko left eye becomes bright blood red as she remembers the times before she took the plunge back then. Though she then sighs as her left snake glances at LingQi who looked concerned though curious.

'Anyway that's what it felt like to me at least. Because I never really had parents, they died when I was very young…or so I heard. I don't remember them and I grew up in an orphanage. Its like a place where abandoned children stay in the care of someone and then wait for a couple to adopt them…if they ever do. I never was so I was kind of left alone to my own devices. Apart from the times I had to attend school I didn't really socialise, I never felt the urge to you know? I had a tv…which was like mechanical box that runs various stage plays and the like is the best way I can describe it to you. Man it really is hard to imagine how far humanity as a whole came after experiencing here. Its kind of incredible.' Mitsuko stops herself to let that fact sink in, she was too busy being a warrior to think about that kind of stuff. LingQi stays silent, she knew this was just the beginning of Mitsuko's story so she stays silent and waits for her patiently. The way she describes her world it sounds amazing and yet sad, was it really that bad she thought to herself.

'Anyway, I'm making it sound horrible aren't I? Its not all doom and gloom, like I said technology got a lot better, so has medicine so more people are living which is nice I guess. I suppose I didn't realise how much I hated everything or what it was like before I got here, slaughtering yellow turbans and the like.' Mitsuko sighed as she realised she's starting to ramble on about things LingQi doesn't understand or even care about.

'Sorry, I'm just rambling on about nothing really. Well long story short I kind of did just grow up alone, no one to care for me. No friends, just me, myself and I. I never really cared though. It was just something I was used to you know? I never really cared about the fact I didn't have parents since I never had them. Its one of those things that since I never had it, I couldn't miss it you know. Well that translated to me not having enough social skills to make friends. I was kind of left to my own devices growing up which was fine with me. I was used to it. I wouldn't say I was a freak or anything, just no one approached me and I never approached them either. I was pretty much a coward, I couldn't muster up the courage of playing with the others so I just kept to myself. I wasn't that smart, I wasn't that athletic I wasn't really great at anything so I just blended in the background, so no one approached me but that means no one gave a damn about me so I got by pretty much unscathed. That was fine for me. I was lonely but it was tolerable. I mean I had my consoles to occupy me…which were like…how do I put this? Interactive entertainment boxes. Probably not the best way to describe it but I think that's the gist of it.' Mitsuko explains, LingQi notices the more she talks about the world the more upset…and angry she got in her voice. Even her snakes start to get a little restless, hissing quietly as Mitsuko recalls her memories.

'So when I saw kids getting bullied by absolute bastards, just shit people in the making pushing others around for one reason or another I just hid myself and just hoped they wouldn't go for me. Again…I was a coward. I couldn't keep up with them in any way and I would've just gotten hurt, so what was the point? That's what I told myself anyway. Anyway as I grew older and progressed through school that was the usual. I studied at school, went home to play games on my own. Day in and day out. My outlook on the world was well to put it mildly, gloomy. That was…before I met her.' Mitsuko stopped to compose herself. Here she was, finally coming to the forefront of her mind willingly in a long time. She almost cried immediately though she held back her tears and after a deep breath she continues.

'We had a transfer student named Akari. When I saw her, I was speechless, I never saw anyone so beautiful in my life, I was never into stuff like beauty before I met her. She had like bright red hair that she dyed, clear skin, cute pair of glasses…which were like a way to help her see from her eyes and a gorgeous smile. I never saw anyone smile like she did. Her blue eyes were also something else, they really captivated me, I couldn't keep my eyes off them. Heh, I remember the time we met like it was just yesterday' Mitsuko's voice grew softer as she reminisces not the Akari of her nightmare but from her memories and a small smile also grew on her face.

'Alright class, we have a new student. Please join me in welcoming Akari Nakai.' The teacher said in front of the whole class. Akari stood there smiling widely as she introduced herself with such confidence. I don't know how she did it, if I was there I would've just said a meek hello and go to my seat. But no Here she was, proudly and loudly greeting a bunch of strangers she never met before. We all said hello to her.

'Ok you will sit next to Mitsuko over there.' The teacher pointed at the empty seat next to my desk, she made her way happily to the desk next to me. I wasn't the most enthusiastic as I thought she'd just get on my nerves though when she greeted me like how she did. I never felt so flabbergasted in all my life as I was caught off guard as she just greeted me like we've known each other all our lives.

'So your names Mitsuko? Well I'm Hikari, I hope we can be friends.' She beamed brightly at me and I could only respond with just an unenthusiastic 'same here.' Since I had no idea what to do in this situation. She let out a cute giggle before we did our lesson. When that day ended I was preparing to leave as usual, staying behind a bit to avoid the crowds though to my surprise as i walked out the classroom I found her waiting outside with her bright smile intact.

'Wow you take a while to leave don't you? I'm normally the first one out.' She joked.

'I like to avoid all the carnage of trying to escape. I like to get where i need to in preferably one piece.' I stated simply, again not sure of what to say. She laughed though at that.

'I know what you mean. Well since we're both here do you want to walk home together? I'm still new here so you can show me around a bit right?' She asked out of the blue. I was flustered, i didn't know how to respond.

'Erm…sure I guess.' I finally managed to make some of my words escape. Despite my awkward hesitation she was happy and quickly hugged to my side, it all happened so fast I didn't return the favour.

'Yay, is there a donut shop nearby? I'd love one.' The first thing she casually asked me I couldn't help but laugh. She transferred to the city from far away and after her first day of school she wanted a donut. I thought I offended her but she seemed happy. After that she started to wait for me after school was over she said it was "more fun with two people." And naturally as a result we started to get…closer and became friends. We started to see each other outside of school hours. I think she brought out the best in me.

'It sounds like you really grew fond of her.' LingQi stated as she started to stroke very soft the top of the snake's head that was beside her to help Mitsuko know that she's still there. The snake closed its eyes peacefully at this action. Mitsuko's smile grew a little wider as the memories started to come back.

'Your right, I did. The closer we got, the more fonder we grew off each other…eventually we had a…forbidden relationship lets say.' Mitsuko admitted in her own way, she wasn't sure how LingQi would react to her being interested in girls since this time as far as she knew it was basically illegal to do so. As a result she kept it a secret for now, its something she's gotten used to for a while since being in this time.

Mitsuko and Akari were at Akari's house enjoying a weekend day. Her parents were out and left some money for food should they need it. They were playing Dynasty Warriors 3 co-op with Mitsuko playing as Pang tong and Akari playing as Guan Yu.

'Damn how do you have so many kills already?' Akari questioned.

'You just need to get better.' Mitsuko bluntly replied.

'Or maybe you just enjoy playing this game a little too much. You always try to eradicate them all.'

'That is what these feeble mortals deserve! Those who defy empress Mitsuko shall face only death! They may think of it as a war, but this is pest control!' Mitsuko playfully evil laughed.

'You can really be scary at times, you know that right?'

'Maybe.' They both laugh and stayed in silence for a while. They eventually start studying for an upcoming test while remaining in silence before Akari spoke up.

'Hey can I ask you something?'

'Sure, what's on your mind?' Mitsuko questions.

'Do you…like anyone, like really like like?' Akari asked. Mitsuko quickly tried to formulate an answer as this was something she didn't expect this question. Even though it was a simple no since no boy ever really grabbed her attention even the more attractive ones. The panic quickly overtaken her senses.

'I erm…I no, not really. I erm I don't really like anyone. I erm I don't have any interest in boys.' Mitsuko awkwardly answered and flushed with embarrassment as Akari giggles slightly at her behaviour.

'Why? D-do you like someone like that?' Mitsuko hesitantly asked.

'Hmm…I think I do.' She pulls a small coy smile, for some reason this makes Mitsuko's heart sink slightly. She didn't know why.

'Well…who is it? What's he like?' She pressed on for more information. Her curiosity getting the better of her. Akari puts a finger on her chin as if in thought.

'Well I think they're really cute, shy, the most gorgeous pair of eyes I've ever seen. Short black hair, needs to see how amazing and should have more confidence about themselves. They're who I consider my best friend and looks cute in their school uniform.' Akari admitted as she leant in closer to Mitsuko who didn't understand what was happening and blushed madly. Her heart started to skyrocket but she didn't really know why.

'Doesn't sound like any boy I know.' Mitsuko was nervous as they never got this close before. Akari smiles seductively as she cups Mitsuko's face and pulls her closer to her until she could feel her breathing.

'Who said it was a boy?' Akari whispers as she pulls Mitsuko closer for a soft, delicate kiss. Mitsuko was surprised at first as she didn't expect this to happen, the longer it went on though the more she realised that she liked it though she didn't know what to do, so she closed her eyes and kissed back to the best of her ability. Akari pulled back as she blushed just as much as Mitsuko.

'Ok erm…wow…erm.' Mitsuko was dumbstruck and couldn't make a sentence come out even if she wanted to.

'Yeah…so…' Both of them struggle to find the words as they awkwardly try to traverse the minefield they laid out for themselves.

'Wait…can you like me like that?' Mitsuko fidgeted with her free hands unsure of what to feel.

'I don't see why not is it wrong?' Akari asked.

'I…erm I don't know. I mean we're both girls, surely we'll get people staring at us and…are you sure you want to date me of all people? Other girls are prettier than me and-' Akari cups Mitsuko's face to interrupt her and makes her look at her eyes. Akari hesitated to say something as they both stayed in silence, staring at each other's eyes.

'I don't know if how people will react to us, when I first met you, you gave me butterflies and you still do, I don't know if you can call this love but I know that I never felt this for any of my other friends or any boy for that matter. You don't have to accept my feelings as I don't understand them myself but what I do know is that I never felt this way towards anyone. So we can you know…take it slow, no one needs to know at least you know until we figure out everything. I mean that is if you want to you know go on a date with me, you don't have to I-' Now it was Mitsuko's turn to interrupt as she pulls Akari in with a kiss, surprising her so much she couldn't kiss her back. Their lack of experience shows as Mitsuko pulled back almost immediately.

'I'd like that.' Mitsuko smiles at her making Akari beam happily with her as they held each other's hands in silence for a moment, just enjoying each other's companies and just letting the events that just transpired sink in.

'We did get close and for a while I was at my happiest. I didn't realise how happy I could be, sad thing to say I know but it was true. Thanks to her I grew more confident and started to do some stuff I never thought I'd do like skipping class to spend some more time with her. Heh, I think she was a bad influence on me.' Mitsuko chuckled as she remembered one time being pulled into an empty cupboard in school for a quick makeout session. LingQi had no idea that Mitsuko had anyone like that in her life. It did sound like she helped her in quite a few ways, though she wondered to what extent their bond went and what made it so forbidden in her time. She felt a sudden change overcome Mitsuko as she felt a vibration running through the snake she was holding onto, while the other one hissed quite loudly at the bright moon in the sky.

'But that all changed when that goddamn bitch interfered.' Mitsuko opened her eyes to reveal both her eyes are blood red staring at the moon as she seethed venom in her words.

'This woman called Rachel found out about our forbidden relationship and revealed it to everyone in the school. We found ourselves surrounded by students who laughed at us and jeers saying how awful our forbidden relationship was. They ridiculed and humiliated us. I didn't understand what was so wrong with it! I still don't!' Mitsuko furiously vented at her former schoolmates attitude.

'What's this about Rachel?' I asked as I sighed. She just stopped me and Akari dead in our tracks as everyone was getting ready to go back to class. She couldn't resist her maliciously smug smile forming on her lips.

'Oh nothing much, just wanted you to check out my photography skills . I really think I've been improving. What do you think of this picture?' she whipped out her phone and showed a picture of us two having a…not a forbidden act but for the bond we had it was forbidden if that made sense.' Mitsuko fumbled her words to try to come up a way to say a kiss without explicitly saying it.

Well anyway she whipped out this picture of us attracting everyone in corridor at the time.

'Hey everyone look at what I managed to find. Looks like our two classmates here can get a little frisky with each other.' Rachel announced and shown everyone the picture. Their laughter started to echo in the hallways, that and their jeering, their protests of disgusts. They…overwhelmed me. I wasn't used to being the centre of attention so I just closed my eyes, put my hands to my ears and hoped they would stop. This is what I feared was going to happen when we participated in that forbidden relationship…I didn't care at the time because I was happy and now…it started to collapse. I tried to shut them out, I just couldn't deal with them. They all stopped when Akari announced something.

'You got the wrong end of the stick, if you actually sticked around you'd have heard me confess to her and also her rejection. She told me she did it out of kindness, so we're not together. Sorry to disappoint you.' She gave a smile to her as she gave a low growl of annoyance when the jeers and laughter died down. As soon as she was about to say something in retort the bell rang and most people scattered with whispers mainly about Akari as Mitsuko is largely left out of the picture. Rachel left annoyed with her small posse leaving Mitsuko and Akari alone.

'C'mon Mitsuko we're going to be late for class you know what he's like.' Akari giggled as if everything is normal. She started to walk to class before Mitsuko quickly grabbed her sleeve and looked at her with fearful eyes.

'Wh-why did you do that? You didn't have to.'

'I know but I also know you don't like crowds like that, especially when they say stuff like that. Don't worry about it, it'll be fine ok? This way no one can know our little secret. Now c'mon we have to hurry.' I let go of her sleeve as she walks away, leaving me there alone. As she walked away I started to realise just how pathetic and weak I must've been. And just like that my confidence dropped. I should've said something, I…cared for her and yet I couldn't stand side by side, I could only watch as she defended poor weak me! Mitsuko's rage started to direct itself as she felt the sudden urge to scream out loud and pound the ground with her arms as hard as she can. Though as she glances at LingQi looking at her with concern and worry she prevents herself from losing control. As she does her eyes dart to the ground as tears start to threaten to escape her tears.

'Mitsuko…you don't need to tell me if-'

'No! I..I do. You asked and…you have the right to know. I just, its just hard to face the things you regret is all.' Mitsuko interrupted, struggling to face her regrets. Despite everything she pressed on.

So as a result I did nothing, I just followed her to class and for a while it was ok, though I noticed that we started to hang out less and less. When I tried to invite her to anything she said she was unavailable and promised next time. Though even when she did, she was absent minded, I knew it was about that confrontation. I don't think she ever experienced anything like that. I didn't ask her about it though. I don't know why, I wasn't good at being forward or bringing up conversation and I secretly hoped it was nothing, that it was just my imagination. That didn't stop me worrying about her though. Every now and again she skipped a day from school, every time that happened I'd sent her a message and hope she was ok. She assured me she was so I didn't really pursue it, I thought to myself that she may react negatively. I suppose that was my way of consoling and justifying myself for my own cowardice. Every now and again in class I'd…I'd find her have one or two bruises on her face though I didn't ask about it. I thought the last thing she wanted was for me to bring up stuff like that when we hung out together. Part of me…also just wanted to ignore it I hate to admit. I just…didn't know what to do to help her. Though one unfortunate day I couldn't ignore it.

Mitsuko went to the toilet during break time, however as she was about to exit the stall the entrance suddenly slammed open followed by a girl grunting as she was pushed to the ground. Mitsuko backed further into the stall hoping that she wouldn't be found.

I found myself trapped. I knew if I got out then I'd be the one suffering. As you can see there is a theme running with me in the past heh.

'Fucking lesbian freak, you really think that was a good idea trying to pull a fast one on me!?' The schoolgirl Rachel asked Akari as she pulled a few punches of Akari stomach. She ordered her friends to stand outside the doorway before to make sure no one came in as she was dealing with Akari's punishment. Akari groaned in pain as Mitsuko could only close her eyes and try not to make a sound or cry. She desperately wanted to tell her to stop, to leave her girlfriend alone…though she couldn't. She was too afraid and can only cover her ears. She didn't want to hear her suffering. Though Mitsuko could only muffle the sound slightly.

Even though I hated myself for not standing up, I still sat doing nothing. I sat by and let her suffer all this time and now the time when I was in proximity to help…I didn't…I was so fucking cowardly!

Rachel knocked Akari to the ground and continually kicked her in the stomach numerous times making her cough blood. The sounds she was making was awful for Mitsuko to hear. Rachel chuckled at her as she knelt next to her as she held her hair.

'Look at you transfer student. Lying on the ground like the disgusting wretch you are. Do you really think anyone will miss you when your gone? Tch, not even that loner Mitsuko will miss you.'

I was shocked when I heard my name mentioned. And furious, it was the first time I experienced such anger. I wanted to break out of the cage of fear I built myself, I wanted to break out and cave her fucking skull in! Though I couldn't, I was still too afraid then…and I despised myself for it. What kind of a friend was I to let this happen to her?

'Leave her out of this.' Akari weakly spoke out, surprising Mitsuko. She wondered if that would change if she knew how afraid she was and how close she was. She let out a small yelp as Rachel pulled her hair back sharply.

'Is that a threat? You really are a piece of shit aren't you? Sounds like you need a lesson about what we do to pieces of shit around here.' Rachel dragged Akari as she screams to the stall next to Mitsuko. Her screams suddenly stopped as she heard splashing and the toilet flushing.

I was really afraid but also of anger, I was furious with her but also with myself. I can hear suffering next to me, yet all I could do was sit there and hope it didn't happen to me. I tried really hard to not make a sound, though I should've made all the sound in the world to make her stop making her suffer. I…I should've helped her. Mitsuko held back the tears that were building up in her eyes for a while, she didn't want to but she felt she had to. She found herself choking up though she persevered onwards. Her snakes lowered their heads and look upon Mitsuko with sadness with the left one t

As the toilet flushed Mitsuko heard the body just crash to the ground as Akari coughed violently.

'Too bad break time doesn't last long otherwise I'd show you more. But you probably enjoyed it you fucking gay freak. Remember, tell this to anyone and I'll get your precious Mitsuko don't forget.' Rachel threatened as she exited the stall and left the bathroom leaving Akari and unbeknownst to her, Mitsuko all alone. Mitsuko stayed silent, completely paralysed at what she just heard.

I was afraid that she'd come back to do the same to me, I don't know how I could've coped. I just didn't want to get hurt, as I heard her standing up I was about to exit the door before she knocked the hollow wall next to me.

'Hey listen whoever is in there, don't worry about what you just heard all right?' She called out to me but I don't think she knew I was there, I was too dumbstruck to actually say anything like a fucking idiot.

'You don't have to worry about not helping me or anything, its ok I understand. Please don't tell anyone though, especially Mitsuko. I don't want her to worry about me and if you tell anyone…well I don't know what they'll do to her but I can't let that happen to her you know?' I couldn't believe what I was hearing, tears were streaming down my face and I was too choked up to respond. I wanted to tell her that it was me, I wanted to tell her I was there. But I couldn't. I felt so pathetic. She chuckled weakly though after I didn't give an answer.

'Already forgot everything huh? Thanks. Well, I better clean myself up, class starts very soon. Oh don't worry, I won't mention anything about you as long as you keep your end of the bargain.' I heard her turn the water on and clean herself up before going to class. I felt so pathetic, so disgusted with myself for not showing my support or even letting her know. I thought if she knew it was me, she'd be disappointed. But that's not an excuse for me to not help her in her hour of need. After that day, I sent more messages to her, hoping she would open up or hang out like old times if only for a day or so but she became more and more recluse…like me.

Shortly after that I woke up, just like…another day. I was walking to school. However when I arrived at the entrance there was a crowd I didn't know what was going on so I wormed my way through the crowd just to see what was going on…and…I saw her. Dead…I..I…was speechless, I couldn't believe it. Her body was just surrounded by a pool of her own blood, her own head split open to reveal a little bit of her brain. There were people tending to her corpse, cleaning it up and trying to get the rest of the students to go back to class. As I remembered how happy she was when we first met, her beaming smile was gone. Her fun and happy attitude was gone. I'd never get to see her be happy again…and it was my fault. I couldn't face it so I just ran. I made my way out of the crowd and went back home.

I crashed onto my bed and just cried. I didn't escape from my room for 3 days, though the person in charge put some food and drink out for me and opened the window for me. I didn't look up though as I just stayed in bed, crying like a pathetic infant. I-I should've done something! I should've helped her I told myself. I cursed and hated myself for ignoring her. I was too pre-occupied with my own safety and too concerned thinking how I should approach helping her when I should've just stood beside her. I…I murdered her. Even though she herself jumped off from the building, that wouldn't have happened if I just let her know I was there for her. I should've let someone know what was happening. But I didn't…so as a result…I've had to live with that. It didn't matter what I was like before, she was someone dear to me…and I just let that happen to her…I felt I was the one that pushed her off the building. Mitsuko paused, she found herself choking on her own tears. She didn't want to do this in front of LingQi though its clear she's still affected by it. The left snake head hisses softly as it tries to nuzzle its face to help wipe away the tears threatening to roll down her face. LingQi stayed there silent while watching Mitsuko, she wanted to help console her but she thought it would be better to let her finish, she glances down at the snake that she held in her hand who is visibly upset. LingQi couldn't help but wipe away its tears, she noticed that its eyes were a pale blue as opposed to the blood red eyes before. She then glanced towards Mitsuko who took a sharp breath before continuing.

After that pathetic session of mine I went back, I was questioned by my teachers but I didn't care…I was alone again. I reverted back to what I was like, I just hoped no one would bother me. However…as luck would have it a few days after I started to settle in…that fucking bitch didn't lay off me did she? Mitsuko and her snakes eyes turned blood red once again as they started to fidget and hiss violently at nothing.

Once a day Rachel dragged me to a private room to beat the shit out of me, degrading me, making me suffer physical just as well as mentally. She called me all sorts of vile names. When she ran out of time she would just leave me to my thoughts. I'd struggle to stand. I thought about asking for help but when I stared at myself…I remember how much of a coward I was and resigned myself. I thought I deserved it so I just let it happen, its not like I could fight back. Though the more I suffered at her hands the more I just lost my will, I wanted my suffering to end, I wanted Akari back. I wanted everything to go back to the way it was, This was when I realised just how unforgiving the world could be. One night, I just lost it. I hated everything, I wanted everything to stop so much…I almost took my life. Mitsuko lowered the collar of her armour on her right side of her neck with her left snake with its two fangs. Revealing a faint line across it.

'I took a knife I had and slit my throat. I lost everything, I was alone…I wasn't thinking straight and part of me thought I could appeal to Akari if I killed myself like she did.' Mitsuko explained. LingQi was lost for words as she examined the scar more closely.

'How did you survive?' LingQi whispered softly.

'Honestly I don't know. I laid there dying, my vision was going blurry. Before I blacked out I noticed the light turned a golden colour. I guess I was found by a couple of people as I heard some muffled voices in the background. Though I can't remember. Then I blacked out. Next thing I knew I was in a medical facility, what we call a hospital. They told me I was brought there but no one saw them. They told me I was lucky when they brought me, a couple of more hours later and there would've apparently been no saving me. I thanked the nurse but…I despised myself. I couldn't even kill myself properly, I thought of it as a failure.' Mitsuko explained.

Soon I was discharged with a leaflet which was like a scroll of information for mental health counselling sessions and I should give them a call. I told them I would but I didn't. There was no point I thought, it wasn't going to be of much use to me. As I got back I grew bitter, about the world, about the people. About everything. But most of all I hated how powerless I was to change anything! I thought I was always going to be a weak spineless idiot who lets those she cares about die. I know now that I didn't much think about Akari after that, just my own suffering, my own hatred. Though again I couldn't do anything, when I got back…nothing happened surprisingly. I was waiting for that bitch Rachel to come up and proceed with her daily beatings though she never did. I wondered what she was planning. I was getting very anxious as days went passed as she never went to me, I never saw her in school…life was starting to get back to how it was. I was even starting to forget about Akari like I wanted to. If I was going to be strong I'd have to forget about her I thought to myself. However one day when I got back home I found my room…trashed. Everything I owned, destroyed. Stuff that was helping me get through this, gone in the link of an eye. As I was trying to see what survived the carnage frantically I found a note. It read "I know where you live." I knew this was from Rachel. I lost it…she found out where I lived. Now there was no way I could stay, nowhere where was safe for me. I couldn't do anything. I shouted and screamed and cursed. I despise her with all of my heart, I grew tired of her, of this world, of the behaviors of the people that lived in it, how shit everything was. So I ran, I ran far away form that room as fast as I could. I didn't know what I was doing but I felt compelled to run, to get out of there and find something else. Something to help me get stronger, to give me the power to change just SOMETHING! I eventually found myself panting in exhaustion overlooking one of our cities piers. I walked over to one and found myself looking at the open sea. Part of me wanted to try to end my life again by drowning but then the water serpent came. It asked me if I wanted to accept its offer of strength and I agreed. I didn't care what was the price, I wanted power. I wanted to change things, to stand up for what I believe in without fear. So I agreed, it swallowed me up and I ended up in this world.

'The rest as you say is history. We eventually met and became friends and…well I don't know what we are now. But the more I think about it…nothing really changed did it? I let Zang Ba and Wu Zi die…I killed your father without thinking of the consequences, my own bloodlust got in the way. And ever since I arrived here…I dreamt about Akari every night. She haunts me…I wanted her to stop, to leave me alone. Though I always think to myself she just hates me that much and I…I don't blame her. I really am just the worst person. I didn't even mourn her, I just tried to forget all about her. I thought that was the best way. With things like what happened…I just have to wonder whats wrong with me? I keep…I keep killing and hurting the people I care about, I wanted strength to stop that! I just…I just-' Mitsuko could barely contain herself, she struggled to finisher her sentence by how much she was choking up. Everything just processed for her at once. Though her train of thought was interrupted as she felt a pair of arms pull her in for a warm embrace. Mitsuko couldn't respond, her snakes stayed in place, looking at each other, unsure of what to do.

'Mitsuko…its ok.'

'What?'

'Its ok. You don't have to keep it in anymore.' LingQi whispers in Mitsuko's ear who still is confused.

'but I-'

'I won't pretend I understand everything about your world or your people…but I understand you better now. And I'm grateful for you trusting me with this.' Mitsuko's snakes naturally start to wrap around LingQi. A little too tightly but LingQi didn't mind.

'I know that I won't be able to change your mind but I don't believe it was your fault, you didn't kill her. You don't need to burden yourself with her death. I don't think she would want you to burden yourself either.' Mitsuko opened her eyes in shock as she heard this.

'From what you told me, she was a very good person who cared for you like you cared for her. She doesn't seem to be the type to be full of vengeance, especially towards you. Your world is an emptier place without her I'm sure. As for both Zang Ba and Wu Zi…even though they were following your orders against…my father. I know full well they were loyal enough to follow you despite everything and I know they wouldn't hold anything against you either.'

'D-do you think so?' Mitsuko questions as she still struggles to keep herself together in front of LingQi.

'I know so. I also know what its like to blame yourself based on the actions or words from someone else. Whenever my father was angry at me, I always thought it was my fault even when I didn't do anything. But you don't need to blame yourself. It wasn't your fault, though I know I can't convince you otherwise. However I think if you want to blame anyone, you should blame that vile, despicable woman who dared to cause her and yourself severe harm, driving you to consider taking your life in the same way.' LingQi advised, her words seethed venom as she was talking about the woman who would even make her suffer like that and held her tighter.

'You don't need to worry about being strong, you're the strongest person I know…you even beat my father which I'm sure was not an easy thing to do. You were the opposite of weak Mitsuko…you kept it together for so long I'm amazed you held on for so long, so its ok. You can drop your guard and let it out. No one else will know.' Mitsuko immediately let the tears stream down her face after so long and silently sobbed.

'I-I'm sorry.' She let out, LingQi held the back of her head and pulls it to closer to her and slowly strokes her head with her index and middle fingers.

'Hey don't worry, its ok. I…I think we both need to put our pasts to rest and start anew.'

'But…what if I can't, what if despite everything I don't change, what if-'

'Then I'll help you.' LingQi interrupted Mitsuko.

'I'll help you, the same way you helped me. Just…don't shut me out ok? I can't bare to go back to us keeping secrets from each other. Not after tonight. Can you promise me that?' Mitsuko mustered a small smile as she closed her eyes, she felt warm in LingQi's arms, the same way as Akari. She thinks that she can't have the same relationship and she's ok with that, she just doesn't want to be separated from her.

'Yeah…I'd like that.' Mitsuko responded, earning a smile from LingQi she can't see.

'Good.' LingQi says. Mitsuko figured that was enough so she tried to pull back from LingQi though she quickly pulled her back, surprising Mitsuko.

'I told you can let it out didn't I?' LingQi asked.

'Yeah but.'

'No buts, you can let it out Mitsuko. We agreed no more secrets.'

'I know…But what if it takes all night or what if I accidently fall asleep?'

'That's fine with me.'

'Tch, you're really going to stay here all night just for me on this log with a bright moon overlooking the lake?' Mitsuko questioned.

'Of course.'

'…thanks.' Mitsuko responded as she begrudgingly let out some more tears, however she started to feel lighter.

Some time later Gyuki exits the forest and spots the two on the log embracing each other. He quickly stormed to their position after trying to look for them for so long.

'Oh there you two are. I've been looking around forever for you. I heard from Dodomeki and the phoenix what happened. It sounded like you were in trouble but I'm glad that…oh sorry.' Gyuki quickly hushed his voice as got in front of those two to see them sleeping as they embraced each other while sitting up on the log, unknowingly leaning on each other to prevent them from falling to the ground. Mitsuko's snake arms coil around their bodies with their heads resting on one of their shoulders.

'That position is not good for your posture. C'mon I think its time to go to your tents.' Gyuki whispered as he carefully picked both of them up with his hands and walk to the forest. As he traverses the trees he notices as Mitsuko looked peaceful as she slept. He glanced towards LingQi and smiles warmly.

'I'm glad you helped her and didn't leave us. We won't let you down I promise. I'll have a word with Dodomeki, don't worry about that.' He promised her as he reached Mitsuko's tent.

'Well here we are. C'mon now.' Gyuki carefully places them inside the tent separately to make sure they don't wake up. As he placed them he noticed there was a certain coldness to the breeze.

'Hmm, can't have you both getting cold getting cold now. Its getting close to winter. I'm sorry if it doesn't smell the greatest but I think its better than you being cold.' Gyuki stated as he removed his large jacket and placed it over them both. Gyuki took a step back to see LingQi lying on her back sleeping while Mitsuko lied on her stomach with one of her snake arms draped over LingQi's chest with the head on the floor near her side. It was fair to say that Mitsuko didn't suffer from nightmares that night. Gyuki was about to leave though he noticed something about Mitsuko. He leans in closer slightly and saw the scar on her neck which suddenly caused him a sharp pain in his mind. He took a step back and crashed to his knees.

'Oh no she's injured! She's bleeding a lot, what do we do!?' Gyuki questioned panicky.

'I don't know…we need to get her to a hospital and fast.' Mitsuko struggled to open her eyes, Dodomeki quickly knelt down besides her and grabbed her hand.

'Don't worry my lady, you'll be ok. Gyuki, do you know where the nearest hospital is?'

'Yeah! C'mon, carry her and climb on my back, we need to get there as fast as we can.'

Gyuki panted as he stood up as he rubbed his head.

'What the hell was that? That was Dodomeki and…lady Mitsuko? I don't remember that at all. But she seemed to be injured. It felt so familiar but why don't I remember anything about that? Hmm maybe Dodomeki knows. I'll need to ask him when I next see him.' Gyuki took one last glance at the tent before sitting down nearby and started to rest his eyes.

A/N: And there we go, hey guys. First off, really sorry for the long delay. Part of it was just the fact that as I was writing this, I had an idea of what the structure was in my head until I came to writing and then was like "hmm no that don't feel quite right." So it was a bit of a struggle to find the right words and so on. Plus I moved back to my house so I can finally write on my pc again which feels good. And I submitted a black library story submission for Warhammer 40k since I recently picked up the hobby a few months back. RIP my wallet. The sisters of sickness will infest the imperium for grandfather Nurgle! So yeah I was a little bit busier but I still should've done this earlier so sorry about that. If my submission is unsuccessful I may write the story on here if people want, though the last thing I want is to be overworked and have too many projects and keep you guys waiting for this one to be updated, which I should be able to return back to my normal upload schedule after this. Though I was also thinking if enough people want I can try to setup a discord server for all of us, a simple place to hang out and I can keep you updated on my stuff, you can see my other projects, discuss ideas for the future and the like. But I think I rambled enough for one chapter. Hopefully you enjoyed this chapter and I hope it was worth the wait. I'll see you guys next chapter, Sayonara.