So yeah, another update

Noriko finally gives Taka a piece of his mind and Miaka is finally able to heal and move on, a lot of feels here

"Miaka, you're such a crybaby, you're reckless and stubborn, you never stop eating…." Nuriko whispered hoarsely. He'd failed his priestess by promising to protect her for the rest of his life and ended up hurting her the most. Dying recklessly in a solo mission, instead of asking for help from his fellow warriors. Bleeding to death but lying peacefully on a snow covered mountain.

Miaka gripped her best friends hand tightly, tears spilling over her cheeks "Nuriko, just hang on, Mitsukake will be here soon" she stammered. Why had Nuriko done something so stupid? Wasn't he usually the voice of reason? Why would he endanger himself instead of asking for help at the risk of his life? Why did he have to die like this?

Nuriko smiled weakly, Miaka was crying, he'd made Miaka cry again and this time he couldn't apologize to her "You have to live Miaka, live for me and be happy" Nuriko begged weakly. He could no longer stand by her side as she summoned Suzaku and summoned the shinzaho, but he would watch over her from the heavens.

Miaka sat upright rigidly, her eyes wide with fear and sweat dripping down her body, tears spilling down her cheeks, panting heavily and staring into oblivion. How many times had she wished she could reverse those events, the heartbreak and the loss that she endured in the book all for the sake of summoning a god. Nakago hunting down her warriors in a spiteful game to hurt her, knowing full well none of it had been necessary. Manipulating Yui until she had used up her resourcefulness and revealed how all along she had been a tool to him. She remembered that day, the nightmare she could never forget, lucid and painfully realistic. She had believed that the journey would be pain free and despite the hardship they would all get through it together. However, the ties were severed repetitively until only 3 of her seven warriors were left alive. The day that Nuriko accepted she was in love with Miaka and risked her life to fight Ashitare and lost her life for it. Being impaled on his claws, to which she died of shock and blood loss in order to open the cave harbouring the Genbu Shinzaho. Instead of waiting patiently for Mitsukake to arrive and heal her, she pushed herself to a critical state which cost Nuriko his life.

The first time Miaka lost one of her warriors, how she failed to protect one of her own, realising her weakness and falling into an endless pit of depression and guilt. Miaka never forgave herself for her inability to protect them, but gained a stronger love and respect for them. But a bitterness grew inside of her, a hatred of those whom had caused this suffering. How Nuriko lost her life needlessly to fit into Nakago's plots, but was reborn into her world as an ordinary woman albeit still carrying her memories and strength. She bit her lip and wiped her eyes, muffling her sobs bitterly, she didn't want to wake anyone, attract attention, but she couldn't control the rage of emotions swirling around inside of her. She could never undo the past, she couldn't turn back time and prevent these moments from happening, these memories burned into her mind and allowing her to grow up and mature. Every decision had a consequence and nobody could undo these actions, but Nakago had manipulated every moment to fit his schemes and didn't care whom he hurt or who suffered because of this. She wiped her eyes and took some slow breaths, hoping to calm herself, she slowly reached out to pick up her phone from the bedside table to realise it was around four in the morning. Her gaze became cold as she noticed the missed calls and messages from Taka, ever since she abandoned home and stopped coming home, the endless barrage of harassment seemed ongoing.

When are you coming home?-Taka

Answer your phone babe?-Taka

Miaka huffed, rubbing her eyes sleepily and wishing she had never checked her phone, she would have been happier and felt lighter. Having problems in your everyday life alongside personal life added further stress to your psyche. She and Taka's relationship had been over for years, neither of them had been able to admit or realise it. But because of those who loved her, she was able to break from her cage and realise how empty her life had been. He never cared when she had been alone before, yet now he was acting possessive. She stepped out of her bed wearily, pulling on a bedside cardigan as she paced out of her bedroom.

Miaka leaned over Yui's balcony in silence, the night wind gently blowing her hair and easing her mind, her long reddish-brown hair twisted across to tumble down her shoulder. The cool night air tickled her skin and cleared her mind, the simplicity of it all bringing her a sense of comfort. Removing herself from her cage and enjoying the freedom of normality. It had been a long time since she felt this peaceful, that she felt safe and happy, given her shared flat with Taka felt empty and cold. Wrapped in a black cardigan to keep herself warm, wearing a red lace camisole vest and matching lacey shorts, trying to find the constellations of her warriors in hopes that her heart would be connected to them. That they could hear her thoughts, that they would come here to support her and offer advice. How much she wished she could see them again. The night was so peaceful, the dark blue sky eternally stretching into the distance, the twinkling stars above her, the city lights glowing in the distance. Reminding her of her time as a priestess, how she would sit on the balcony from her bedroom and count the stars while thinking of home. The night always reminded her of that unforgettable time of happiness that was now in her past. The quiet city, where the people slept and lived their lives in blissful naivety of the otherworldly forces that existed. The powers that were held in the small book that had been written hundreds of years ago.

The silence of the sleeping people as the world came to a temporary stop, the calmness of it all, the world pausing until another day came. The night owls who enjoyed the night life, endured night classes and late shifts. This was her home, the world she protected when Nakago tried to become a god, trying to get revenge using the gods powers for the suffering he had endured at the hands of the emperor. She had made her wish to save both the world of the book and her world from the chaos Nakago had caused, selflessly putting her own feelings aside for the better good. For her actions, Suzaku had shown her mercy and granted her hearts deepest desire. Giving her what the previous priestesses before her longed for but were never granted, something she deeply regretted upon reflection. She had been granted happiness with Tamahome by being reborn as Taka, Suzaku used his power to give Tamahome a new life and false memories of a human in her world. If she had known her relationship would have become this depressing and toxic she would have moved on from Tamahome. She would have found a new love, began dating and decided to create a new life for herself away from Tamahome, growing up and moving on. For others had been more deserving of her love.

Hotohori had died in battle, abandoning his love for her despite being devoted to her since his adolescence, hoping and praying to meet her in hopes she would love him as a man. That she would save him from his loneliness, that he would finally find a person who would truly understand him. However, when Miaka cruelly rejected his affections he found a new priestess in which he was able to find true love. But ultimately this was not to last after Suzaku was sealed away, leaving behind his newborn son and wife who adored him, having risked his life for his country in battle. Though her heart ached for the heartbreak poor Lady Houki suffered due to Hotohori's death, she couldn't help but wonder if she could have saved him if she had returned his love. If she could have made him happier if she had accepted his kindness and loyalty rather than chasing Tamahome like a blind fool.

Mitsukake had died giving his life for fallen soldiers and dying people, dying in peace and yet leaving behind people with broken hearts. His soul going to heaven to be reunited with Shouka, the woman he had loved so deeply and died from illness with loneliness in her heart. Chichiri gripping to his best friend and begging him not to leave, angrily sobbing and raging at soldiers who returned to battle once being revived, disrespecting Mitsukake's dying wish. Chichiri still held the memories of his friends close and worked alongside Taiitskun, living a nomadic lifestyle and moving on from his past.

Chiriko the youngest warrior dying to prevent Miboshi from possessing him and killing the rest of the Suzaku seven. He had been quiet and studious, the weakest warrior in terms of strength, though empathetic and intelligent. However, he proved himself to be the strongest in heart showing how far he went to sacrifice his life to save his priestess.

All of her warriors had died in pain, all of her warriors had died with passion in their hearts and yet unnecessarily. All of them had followed her into battle to travel to the other nations to gather the shinzaho to summon Suzaku and ended up losing their lives for the cause. If she had only been stronger, if only Nakago hadn't turned Yui against her, maybe things could have turned out differently. Instead of selfishly wishing for Tamahome and longing for him to come back to her, instead of dreaming of romance and daydreams, she could have been more empathetic. She could have asked Suzaku to bring back her warriors, she could have asked them to come back and return to their loved ones. She could have reversed the crimes that Nakago had caused her friends. She sighed heavily, rubbing her eyes in frustration, it was all well said and done saying these things now after all these years. After having matured and grown, she realised how childish her previous wishes for Suzaku had been. The teenage mindset she had and how now as adult her views and emotions had changed drastically since then, wishing she could give her past self advice on how the future would have turned out. How many lives she could have saved, how she could have resurrected her warriors and given them a second chance at life. Instead, Tamahome came back to her, only for their love to die, the irony of it all was laughable.

"Miaka, what are you doing up this early?" Yui asked in concern, it was far too early to be awake, she wasn't home so she could sleep peacefully. Miaka had always taken naps back in their high school years, she was always sleepy and always spacing out. But here she was wide awake and restless during the early hours, how times had changed. Her gut told her something was wrong and she wouldn't ignore Miaka when she was in need. Miaka had never given up on her and she would do the same for Miaka now.

Miaka peered over her shoulder to find Yui with messy tousled bed hair, wearing an oversized green bed shirt with a white daisy pattern. She knew Yui balanced her part time job and relationship with Tetsuya alongside this. She had matured so much since her time in the book and overcome her trauma's coming out stronger than ever. She'd always had a kind heart and looked out for everyone else. Now she had taken in Miaka while she fought her way out of a toxic relationship, what did she do to deserve her? "Yui-chan, gomen did I wake you?" she apologized. Everything had become so crazy, nothing made sense anymore but she knew what she had to do.

Yui pouted, she had hoped Miaka would get out of there for months, watching Miaka deteriorate from the person she used to be. She could stay here for as long as she wanted until she could get back on her feet again. Miaka was practically family and she could never be a burden to anyone "Pssh, don't worry about me. Why are you up?" she repeated in concern. She knew talking often helped by venting the thoughts that piled up and overwhelmed you, Miaka had so much on her plate where would she even begin? Miaka smiled sadly, she was so lucky to have Yui as a best friend, after the events in the book in which Nakago manipulated her, in which she felt lost and bitter. They had come out of it stronger than ever and believed in one another. Their love and respect for each other merely growing. Now when she needed her most, Yui welcomed her with open arms.

Yui walked out onto the balcony, taking Miaka's hand and leaning against her gently, they didn't have to speak if Miaka didn't want to. They could just stand here and reflect until Miaka felt better. Miaka squeezed Yui's hand appreciatively, taking a deep breath, she felt ready to speak about it, to work through the swirling chaos in her mind. "I… I had a nightmare…. I was dreaming….dreaming about Nuriko, the day he died…." she muttered. It was so vivid, so real, it was like she was dragged back in time. Yui's expression became pained, her blue eyes filling with pain, she knew Miaka had never betrayed her, she knew Miaka was still loyal and loved her. But she had been wallowing in her jealousy and bitterness, causing her to do awful things to someone she loved. She knew she was being manipulated and it wasn't her fault, Miaka had never held resentment or anger towards her for what happened. But she would always feel guilty and responsible for the grief that Miaka endured, how Nakago had killed Miaka's warriors in cold blood to prevent them from hindering his plans.

"All Nuriko wanted was for me to be happy with Tamahome, she gave her life for me before she was reborn as a woman. Now I reflect on whether I made the wrong wishes if I should have asked for the fallen Suzaku warriors to come back" she vented painfully. She could have saved the people who were by her side supporting her from the beginning. The people who waited for her and admired her with all their hearts, who became like her family whom she built a bond with. Nuriko had loved the emperor before falling in love with Miaka too. Never knowing love in return and dying alone.

Yui's eyes flicked with tears, biting back her sadness and desire to yell at the top of her lungs, she was so angry at how her warriors schemed behind her back and caused needless pain and suffering. The only kind people among her warriors who truly cared for her was Suboshi and his twin Amiboshi, all of her other protectors were dead. Nakago had caused Miaka and the Suzaku warriors pain for his sadistic pleasure, forcing her to summon the beasts god to make himself a god. She would never forgive him for that, though he was flawed his intentions had been self serving.

"Hotohori loved me, he'd loved me for years but I ignored him and chased after Tamahome. I can't help but think that if I'd chosen him all along I could have been happier. He fought for me, his country and he left his wife Houki and baby son Boushin behind" Miaka sobbed. He'd never given up on her, he'd always waited for her, he was always honest about his love for her. He tried again and again to show her how much she meant to him, but ended up breaking his heart over and over. Maybe if she became his empress and loved him, she could have known some kind of peace. Instead she just led him along with her indecisiveness and caused further damage she could have avoided.

"Miaka, you could never have known how things had turned out, you did what you felt was best because you loved Taka back then. His death was never your fault and he died happily" Yui soothed. She had known from the beginning that Hotohori loved Miaka with all his heart but had been blinded by her jealousy. Maybe if she hadn't let Nakago manipulate her, she could have acted as a wing woman for her best friend. She could have helped Miaka work through her feelings, yes she had loved Tamahome too, but Miaka was always the person she loved most of all. Her anger at being abandoned had consumed her. She knew Hotohori could have made Miaka happy, all he had ever wanted was her.

"Chiriko was a damn child! A child Yui and he died to save us from Miboshi, he had died needlessly because of Nakago and there wasn't a damn thing I could do" Miaka snapped. He was the youngest of all the warriors, he lacked the physical strength of the others yet harboured intellect beyond his years. He hadn't been able to help much in battle or even do much to help. But he had proven his worth by protecting his friends from being crushed by the demon Miboshi summoned by possessing his body.

Yui gripped Miaka's arm, staring at her firmly her eyes filled with pain "Miaka listen to me, I wish more than anything I could undo what happened. That I could bring them all back if it would make you smile. But I can't, I can't undo what I did. All I can wish is that the rest of the warriors are reborn in this world like Noriko" Yui responded fiercely. She could never bring back Hotohori, Mitsukake and Chiriko, but their souls were looking for reincarnation. But Nuriko had been reborn as a woman in their world with memories of her past, her powers and her love for Miaka. She had a second chance at life and she wanted to spend it with her priestess. Miaka's eyes welled up with tears, leaning against Yui as she let the tears fall down her cheeks. Her shoulders trembling as she let her emotions pour out of her in waves, part of her had known this for so long, but reflecting on and being told bluntly, it truly opened her eyes.

Miaka sat on the couch nursing a cup of hot cocoa, but she felt relieved from being able to let out her emotions, it was strange how something so simple could ease her worries instantly. She and Yui had always been able to tell each other everything, Yui really did understand Miaka better than Taka ever had. She'd been able to see the cracks in their relationship long before they fell apart like this. Maybe if she had listened sooner, she could have gotten out before it got this bad. Yui gazed at her best friend with tenderness and worry, Miaka had calmed down and through her eyes were still puffy from crying, she looked relieved. She wondered how long Miaka had been holding back those tears upon Taka breaking her heart and becoming controlling. This was another step to Miaka moving on and becoming happier in her life. She would help Miaka through this and help her find new love again, she deserved it more than anyone "Are you feeling better now?" she soothed. If Miaka still needed to be held to feel safe, she would happily indulge her.

Miaka smiled shyly "Hai, Arigato Yui-chan you're always such a loyal friend" she responded gratefully. After everything, being abandoned in the book and Nakago's controlling nature. Being pit against her best friend and their rivalling missions, summoning their respected beast gods and saving their world, then healing their friendship. They had come a long way since then, talked things out and healed their scars. Both coming out of this stronger and their love and respect for each other merely growing. After everything, facing Tenko, finishing high school and becoming adults, the world felt strange. But they could always rely on each other for help and guidance.

Yui smiled fondly "Miaka, with all you've been through for the past year, I'm surprised you haven't snapped sooner" she scoffed. She remembered her own paranoia and suspicion in the book. The coldness she felt from Soi, Tomo and yet the obsessed devotion of Suboshi, she knew they were born to protect her yet they treated her with a bitterness. She was merely a pawn to most of them, none of them truly loved her at all.

Miaka laughed awkwardly, she'd been in a daze for the longest time and now she was beginning to wake up "I guess I just needed a reality check is all" she joked. She needed to separate reality from her dreams and memories. Though a reincarnation, Taka was not truly Tamahome and didn't fully remember his past, having been given false memories. For the longest time Taka had become colder and controlling, refusing to allow her to leave the house without him, keeping her trapped in a cage like a bird with clipped wings.

"Sometimes the most painful lessons are the most helpful" Yui responded bitterly. It had taken learning her warriors were apathetic manipulators to know they hated her. She was an outsider brought to her world to use Seiryu's holy power to save their nation. Soi had resented her out of jealousy and love for Nakago, merely following Yui out of duty. Soi avoided her when necessary and simply approached her out of duty and when she needed protection, she spoke little to Soi and after finding her she was seen mostly with Tomo and Nakago. Yui could sense her feelings for Nakago and her bitterness towards his fondness for his priestess. The only warriors to have concern for her had been the twins, Amiboshi and Suboshi. Amiboshi had been too kind to be a warrior, his heart was gentle, he was a pacifist and hated killing people. He could have killed the Suzaku seven yet he restrained herself, hoping he could live happily with amnesia. Allowing people to believe he was dead. Suboshi merely wanted her love, devoted to her unwaveringly, the only person he loved more than her was his brother. "Most of the warriors are being reborn now, right? Maybe they can find happiness again" she reassured her, they could only hope their souls found peace.

Miaka shifted, she knew Yui was right, she tended to be most of the time. Yui had always been the voice of reason, her patience and maturity were why people admired her so much. She felt selfish for asking this but she knew she wouldn't sleep through the night "Yui-chan….I… I know this is a strange request but… can.. can I sleep with you tonight?" she asked cautiously. She had found herself suffering from insomnia due to the stress and depression, lying awake in an empty bed until exhaustion overcame her.

Yui blinked, this was a request she would have never expected from Miaka, she had become so vulnerable these days. Closing herself away and repressing herself to a point she became unrecognizable. She and Miaka hadn't had a sleepover since they were children, she could see how shaken Miaka was, she was feeling vulnerable and alone. She wouldn't behave like Taka and abandon her, she wouldn't ignore her tears and her pain. "Of course, just don't kick me in your sleep or I'll hit you with a pillow" she joked, she knew Miaka was a restless sleeper. Miaka pouted but laughed in amusement

Taka sat on his bed silently, reflecting on how Miaka hadn't been home now for three days, the house felt empty without her. Nobody to welcome him home with a bright smile, a warm meal and a loving hug. She was supposed to be his wife, the love they had shared in the book had began to wither and die. She hadn't answered her phone, she refused to respond to texts and avoided him at all costs.

Any form of attention he attempted to reach out to her was immediately blocked or ignored as if he never existed. All of her belongings were still here and their shared flat was empty, like a ghost memory of a life long since passed. He worked so hard at his job to provide for them, earning money so they would never go hungry, spoiling Miaka when he got his paycheck. So why would Miaka abandon him like this? He didn't understand, what had he done to make her hate him? She felt so distant and lonely, like she was staring through him like a mirror. He knew he was once a Suzaku warrior born under the star Ogre, he protected and loved Miaka with all his heart, Suzaku bringing him to this world so he could be happy.

Now they were finally together and Miaka was pushing him away, she rejected all form of attempt he made to reach out to her. Running away from him, every time he got close she slipped through his fingers. He could tell she was hurting yet she avoided him when he tried to understand and comfort her. She was running to Yui and her brother constantly for help instead of turning to him. He trusted her to be loyal to him yet she was keeping secrets, was she cheating on him? No, Miaka wouldn't do that to him would she? He wondered if it had something to do with that woman, Noriko, they had become particularly close these past weeks making him suspicious. He needed to know the truth and the only way he would know was by asking Miaka.

Miaka nuzzled against Yui's soft chest affectionately, she felt so safe and warm here, she could feel her soul being soothed and a sense of comfort she had been neglected of for years. This was the love that had been missing in her life, the kind that Taka once showed her, before he became an apathetic controller. Yui always made her feel so calm and whole, she harboured a deep maternal soul that was like hugging sunlight. She never had to hide anything from Yui, they trusted each other indefinitely "Oyasumi Yui-chan" she mumbled sleepily.

Yui smiled fondly, wrapping her arms around Miaka fondly, it was like cuddling a warm kitten or a sleeping puppy. She was happy to see Miaka smiling again and returning to her old self, she was even beginning to smile again. Miaka had such a kind heart yet she had been hurt so deeply, she didn't deserve to suffer this kind of pain. She deserved to be loved and feel loved in return, her kindness balancing with someone. "Oyasumi Miaka" she yawned sleepily

Noriko yawned sleepily, pacing through the kitchen drowsily, rubbing her eyes as her messy tousled hair bounced, she had never been a morning person even during her time in the book. She was always a night owl, enjoying the nightlife and stargazing to her heart's content, a romantic person deep down. She was more than prepared for the caffeine to fill her system and give her the boost she needed, helping her to stay motivated through the day. It had been a long night and Miaka had been staying with them for 3 days, making herself at home. She was prepared to ask Keisuke to collect Miaka's things and bring them here, so she could recover and live with them before finding a new place to live. Miaka couldn't cohabitate with Taka a minute longer, it was becoming detrimental to her physical and mental wellbeing. Miaka's shine was being diminished, her essence and soul broken, doubting herself and closing herself off from others. She needed to bring back her smile and the same brave woman she admired. She wondered if Miaka would appreciate pancakes for breakfast, hoping it would make her smile, she knew Miaka harboured a sweet tooth.

"Maybe I should ask Yui" she muttered sleepily, she wanted them to have fun together, to bond as friends. After she was reborn in this world, Yui had reached out and given her a home. Apologizing for her past crimes and helping Noriko to adjust and find her footing, she paced towards the direction of Yui's bedroom sleepily, knocking lightly on the bedroom door "Ohaiyo Yui-chan" she muttered. Her eyes widened in shock at the adorable sight before her, this is not what she had been expecting whatsoever. She wished she had a camera to capture this moment. Miaka had cuddled up angelically to Yui, the latter's arms wrapped around her protectively while Miaka nuzzled up to her like a sleeping kitten. She knew Miaka had been vulnerable all this time and suffering alone, for the first time in a long time she looked peaceful. She didn't know how Miaka had ended up in Yui's bed but it felt cruel to wake them both, closing the door slightly but leaving the door open a crack so the scent of food would rouse their hunger.

The scent of butter, syrup and delicious cooking wafted into the bedroom, the air smelled like breakfast, the soothing scent of comfort food filling the house. Miaka roused, her stomach growling loudly, her goldish green eyes snapping open, some things never changed. She had forgotten how good food could smell, Taka often being cheap or never bothering with anything fancy when she was living alone. Her mouth watered at the scent of food, whatever smelled delicious she needed to eat now.

There was a soft laugh beside her, Yui shifting sleepily, before stirring and her eyes opening sleepily "Leave it to your stomach to act as an alarm" she teased. She remembered in high school how Miaka followed her stomach no matter what the consequence, she could never ignore her stomach. But Miaka's disinterest in food lately was another red flag. Wondering how much Taka controlled her life, to the point of obsession. She sat up, rubbing her eyes and stretched, ready to start a new day.

Miaka bolted to her feet, peering curiously out of the bedroom door to see Noriko standing by the cooker. She looked so homely and natural as if she had belonged there her whole life. She had never seen Noriko cook so she couldn't help but wonder when she had learned "O..Ohaiyo Noriko" she stammered shyly. She knew she was acting childishly, forgetting that part of her personality still existed inside of herself.

Noriko turned to her with a bright smile, she was glad Miaka showed such a positive response to her cooking. For a minute she looked like her old self, bright eyed and eager, waiting for food. She hoped over time she would be able to recover the girl she fell for "Ohaiyo Miaka, hungry?" she asked kindly. Miaka nodded eagerly, crying had used up a lot of energy and the restful sleep had energized her. She was eager to start the day well, moving on from her past.

Miaka stuffed her jaw with pancakes hungrily, the delicious fluffiness of the pancakes covered in syrup melting in her mouth, she felt herself crying with joy at how wonderful this breakfast was. She felt like a little girl again, waking to her mothers' bright smile and homely breakfast, giving Miaka the strength to get through the day. Due to how tight-fisted Taka could be, he never spoiled her with stuff like this, this felt like a dream come true. She didn't have to worry about being judged, she could just indulge. Yui smiled in amusement while enjoying her pancakes with a cup of tea, she remembered how Miaka could consume whole meals in a heartbeat. How Miaka had an appetite that could often times be disturbing. But she had lost weight since Taka became abusive, it was good to see she still enjoyed meals normally, meaning he had been controlling her in other ways. "Wow Miaka, quite the appetite this morning" Noriko teased, but she meant it out of love rather than spite. She took it as a huge compliment that Miaka enjoyed the taste so much. She couldn't wait to prepare more meals for her to sample in the future. Miaka blinked, wiping her mouth awkwardly with a blush on her cheeks, she'd forgotten she was in company for a second.

Yui smiled, this felt so natural, as though they were a family "Miaka had a rough night last night, I think she appreciates this little surprise" she explained. After crying all night, finally moving on from her guilt and trauma, she had unloaded a great deal from her shoulders. But she was proud of Miaka and was glad she was taking this step forward. Pancakes was the perfect way to celebrate and more good things were to follow. Noriko became concerned, if Miaka hadn't been feeling well she could have woken her, she knew Miaka hated to be a hindrance and often acted without thinking. God knows how Taka had conditioned her through their relationship.

Miaka shifted, sensing the tension, she didn't want them to become troubled due to misunderstandings "It's…. Gomen, I… I just had bad dreams is all, flashbacks from the past. But… I'm fine now" she babbled. She didn't want Noriko to be reminded of her death, nobody wanted to hear such a thing. It was too depressing at such an early hour in the day. She had been reminiscing of the past a lot lately, maybe it was due to her mind becoming clearer?

"Miaka, it's ok to talk about this, venting can help relieve stress" Noriko reassured her, she had been holding back for a long time. Being emotionally overwhelmed was understandable, the seal on the bottle popped and everything came pouring out at once. She was a very strong person but even resilient people had a personal limit and she finally hit hers. Having nightmares and feeling upset were natural reactions, she needn't feel ashamed of such a thing.

Miaka hesitated, clenching her fingers around her fork tightly, staring at the sticky pancakes intently, "I… I dreamed about that day when you climbed the mountain that led to Takiko's grave, the priestess of Genbu. How you died because of Ashitare, but more so how needlessly everyone died and how Tamahome was the one who was brought back" she huffed. Now that she was able to reflect clearly, she realised how much she had changed. Tamahome had been the least deserving of resurrection, in the end, no matter the tragedies in the book. Of all the souls she could have saved why did it have to be him?

Noriko softened, she could understand how she would think that now. But back then she really had loved him and she didn't have to be ashamed of that. "Well, we couldn't tell how stupid Taka would be in the end, just gives us all the more reason to kick his ass. But you shouldn't blame yourself Miaka, you weren't to know" she assured her. Sher had done what she thought was right, but life was often unpredictable. Miaka gazed at her with gentle but hesitant eyes, she wanted to trust her she did, but she supposed that seed of doubt would always exist.

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door, causing Miaka to stiffen, who could that be? Yui sensed her panic and decided to take care of this, the last thing she wanted was for Miaka to become riled up again, not after she had finally found some closure. She had learned to be on her guard since dealing with Taka's behaviour, Yui got to her feet slowly "I'll go see who that is, you guys keep eating" she smiled. She didn't want Miaka to be dragged into this all over again.

Yui opened the door cautiously, her eyes widening in shock when she saw Taka standing outside her door with a frustrated expression. He had some nerve showing up here after everything. It was clear he never loved Miaka if he was willing to treat her like this, like hell she was going to let him drag Miaka back. "Taka, what the hell are you doing here?" she growled fiercely. If need be she would use Seiryu's power to banish him, if it meant she could protect her best friend from harm.

"I need to speak to Miaka" Taka responded firmly, she'd been hiding long enough, playing games with him and running away in public. She smiled so beautifully for Noriko yet showed him a coldness and hateful expression, what had he done to deserve it? He'd been nothing but loyal to her, he never even cheated. He just wanted to live a happy life alongside her. Why was that so wrong?

Yui frowned, the last thing she would want right now was to look at Taka's face. The guy had no problem ghosting her before, vanishing for weeks, months at a time and neglecting her. Yet now that she was moving on and leaving him he was constantly hounding her, pretending to be a dutiful boyfriend? What a joke. "Miaka has had a rough night, the last thing she needs is to see you" she huffed, when would he get the message to back off?

Taka huffed, why was she being so difficult and lying to him? He knew Miaka was here she was the first person she would run to in trouble. This wasn't the first time Miaka had gone missing, alluding that she had been with friends. Miaka didn't have friends, she only ever had one and that was Yui. "She's my girlfriend Yui, you can't stop me from seeing her" he protested. He had every right to speak to her, this was between the two of them, this wasn't Yui's business.

Yui scoffed, now he was trying to act like he was a victim. Yet he had broken Miaka's spirit, left her alone in an apartment until depression broke her down and left her an empty shell. He denied that he had broken her or done anything wrong like the apathetic asshole he was. "It never stopped you from neglecting her in the past though" she snapped. Now that he was being confronted on his actions he became defensive, how predictable.

Taka's expression darkened, why was she confronting him like this? As though he was a villain, he may not have been perfect but he loved Miaka. Suzaku had granted their wish to be together and he could be with her forever. All he ever wanted was to live by her side in peace, but now she was running away from him, like he was some kind of monster. How could she be so cruel and never explain why? It didn't make any sense to him. "I was working Yui, I have a job, I need to provide"

"I have a job too, Taka, but I still make time for her" Yui argued, she worked full time at a desk job before she would finish her schooling to become a lawyer. So she could help people who were in her best friends position and get them away from abusers like this. She worked hard at her job but always made time for Miaka, putting her above everything. Taka had no excuse, he prioritized money over Miaka and that made him cruel.

Taka shoved past Yui, who attempted to slam the door against him, she was trying to piss him off and it was working. "You can't stop me from seeing her" he yelled, she had gotten between them long enough and he was sick of it. He shoved Yui aside, causing her to crash into the wall in protest, Taka storming through the house to see Miaka sat at the table in her nightwear with that girl again "Miaka!" he yelled. Just what in the hell was she playing at? Lounging about here? Ignoring him, lying to him and pretending that their relationship meant nothing. He knew she loved him, he knew she always would. So why was she pretending that he was an asshole? Miaka froze in her chair, her fork stiffened and her body becoming rigid, the light in her eyes dimming and the fear returning, she daren't look him in the eye. Why was he here? What did he want? Why couldn't he just leave her alone? Why was he hunting her down and trying to rip her from her happiness? Just what did he want from her? "What the hell have you been up to? Running off and leaving me alone like this, I've been worried sick" he demanded

Miaka sighed, she was so sick of his games, sick of his bullshit, sick of it all. Why couldn't he just get the message and move on? Their relationship had been over for years yet she was the only one to recognise this. She hated that he was here, she hated that he was blaming her, like he was the victim in all of this. Still ignorant to how much he hurt her, the pain she had endured for months for his sake. She slowly got to her feet, turning to face him with a cold hardened gaze "I'm moving out Taka, I'm staying with Yui until I can find a new place. Don't expect me to come home, that flat now belongs to you, but then it always did" she stated. Taka stared at her in awe, was she being serious? She was calling quits and abandoning him now? He thought she loved him? She was willing to throw everything they had away? Burning their bridges and ignoring their dreams? How they promised to find one another.

Yui came running into the dining room angrily, how dare he behave like this and attempt to confront Miaka using bully tactics. He needed to leave her alone and get out of her life. "You can't just barge into my damn house Taka! Get out!" she raged, he wasn't welcome here nor had she invited him.

Noriko got to her feet, slowly moving towards Taka angrily, he'd proven that he was no longer her best friend, the man she had cared for and even shared a bond with. Why she had once tried to steal him from Miaka she would never understand? Or given up on Miaka to let her date this jerk. Glaring him down like the asshole he was "I once told you that you were nothing like Nakago, I trusted you to be a good man and look after Miaka. I was so foolish to give up my feelings for her back then, I should have stolen her from you" she snapped.

Taka stared at her in confusion, what was she talking about? Nakago? Wait, the guy from the book? How did this girl have memories from that world like he did, more so clearer memories he no longer knew of. He had some fragments of memories of his past life in the book but they were patchy "Who… who the hell are you?" he babbled in confusion.

Noriko scoffed, his memories really had been warped, they should have let Tenkou kill him instead. Maybe she should have tried harder to break them up to save Miaka from heartbreak "Forget me so easily Tama-baby" she mocked. He was no man, he was no admirable warrior, he was a coward and she hated him for it.

Taka blinked, Tama baby? Wait a minute? It couldn't be, Nuriko had died against Ashitare and left to rest on a mountain. How had he been reborn in this world and as a woman no less, how had he not sensed her appearance? "N…Nuriko?" he babbled, it couldn't be, this was whom Miaka had been getting cosy with?

Noriko smiled, finally, he was putting it together, his ignorance was fading and he was becoming smarter, she then lunged at Taka, aiming her first to punch him across the jaw. Sending Taka flying across the floor gripping his face in pain, Yui stared in awe, Miaka's face filled with surprise. "I trusted you, Taka, I told you how I felt about her that night and asked you to protect her in my place. I died so you could get the shinzaho and you go on to become Nakago!" she raged bitterly. Tears welling in her eyes as she realised everything she sacrificed had been wasted on him. Taka's eyes widened in shock, how was Nuriko alive and how had he never known? "You've broken Miaka's heart and treated her like crap! You've lost your chance, now stay the hell away from her!" she screamed. Taka backed away in awe, aware that her inhuman strength had been transferred into her new female body. Nuriko sighed, approaching Taka to drag him out of the flat, shoving him out of the front door "Keisuke and I will be along soon to collect Miaka's stuff, later" she snapped before slamming the door

"Are you ok Yui? Did he hurt you? Gomen.." Miaka babbled, she wished she could have done something, anything to prevent this. She knew now that Taka was not the same man as Tamahome. Tamahome would have never laid his hands on her best friend, he never would have done any of this. The more she separated them, the more the love she once harboured for him dissipated into nothingness.

Yui scoffed, she would live but it would hurt for a while "He just shoved me is all, slammed into me hard, maybe some bruises but I'll live" she mocked. She'd suffered worse than this in the book of four gods, this was nothing. Taka raising a hand to her just proved how far he had fallen and how little he deserved Miaka. He just couldn't admit his mistakes and looked for someone else to blame through it all.

"Miaka, believe me, his face will hurt more" Noriko joked, she'd gone easy on him despite her urge to beat the shit out of him. Taka wasn't worth any of it, she would be sure to sweep Miaka off her feet and treat her as she deserved. She loved Miaka more than anything and she planned on proving it as much as possible. For starters by living as her roommate and protecting her from further harm, knowing Taka wouldn't easily back off.

"I never thought he would come looking for me" Miaka protested, she never thought he would hunt her down. He'd never acted like he cared in the past so why was he so obsessed with keeping her trapped in their home? Why was her being missing something that mattered to him? She didn't understand his thought process.

"I knew he would, he'd been hounding you for weeks, control freak that he is" Yui laughed, it was only a matter of time before he snapped. Miaka groaned angrily, she knew what she had to do, she couldn't deny the reality of how dangerous this was. She needed to stay here with Yui and Noriko, it was the safest place to be, with people who loved her. She would need to warn Keisuke about this however, so he was able to keep an eye out for Taka. She knew Taka would grow impatient eventually, trying to drag her back home and force her to stay while he went outside. She would be kept a prisoner and her light would become weak, she couldn't live like that anymore, she couldn't go back to that loneliness that she endured for so long. She stared down at her finger, the shining silver ring with the red stone embedded into it, the same ring Tamahome bought her when he was transported to her world before she summoned Suzaku. The ring she treasured all this time, that now appeared tacky, merely an ugly reminder of Taka's false promises. She slowly raised her hand to remove the jewel from her finger, surprised at how easily it slipped off. She hated to look at it, like a miniature handcuff bound to her hand, tying her to Taka.

"Miaka?" Noriko responded in concern, she knew she would still be shaken from Taka's visit, but she wasn't to blame. She needed time to rest and recover from this ordeal, anything she wanted or needed they would be right by her side.

Miaka paced slowly to the bathroom, her gaze cold and empty, she had no hesitations about what she was going to do. Finally breaking the bond between her and Taka for good, she knew Suzaku would sense this. Opening the lid of the toilet, gazing at the porcelain bowl before dropping the ring into the water and flushing, watching the ring swirl and dance before disappearing down the drains. "I'm no longer bound to him, the Tamahome who gave me this ring had loved me. This ring is now just a shackle for Taka to own me, I'm not his anymore" she responded coldly.

Yui stared in shock, this wasn't just some simple decision she had made, that ring held memories and essence of her bond from her time as the priestess. Miaka had bought those rings before the battle against Nakago, her way of proposing to Tamahome so they would always be together. Now she had disposed of a ring she harboured even as they entered high school, waiting for him to return while trying to move on. To abandon it meant she was truly over Taka "Miaka…" she trailed off.

Miaka smiled painfully "He hurt you Yui, he hurt my best friend. He kept me prisoner like a bird in a cage and he tried to drag me back. I'm the priestess of Suzaku, I need to spread my wings and find the fire in me, so I can be happy again". She couldn't live in the past any longer, the events of the book had been four years ago, she just needed to accept that. As much as it hurt she needed her memories of Tamahome to die.

Yui approached, wrapping her arms around Miaka protectively, she knew how much this must have hurt but she was so proud of her. "You are Miaka and always have been, he clipped your wings but no more. You're free now" she reassured her

"HE DID WHAT?!" Keisuke screamed down the phone, he'd shown up at her home and threatened Yui and Miaka. He had some nerve breaking and entering, he was willing to break the law just to see Miaka? Did this guy even understand he was responsible for why she was like this to begin with? What a delusional fool. He had some choice words to give Miaka.

"Is Yui ok? Did that asshole lay a hand on her?" Tetsuya growled, he'd fallen in love with Yui after learning what she went through in the book. Harbouring nothing but pure love for her, the healthiest relationship she had ever known. He never thought less of her despite any of her actions.

"Aside from a bruise Yui's doing just fine, I kicked Taka's ass and sent him packing. But its clear Miaka belongs here. Taka's proven himself as an abuser" Noriko explained. She doubted he would get so cocky again, not unless he wanted to hurt worse than last time.

"Is Miaka ok? Did he hurt her?" Keisuke demanded

"He showed up trying to take her back home, but she stood her ground. She even flushed his ring down the loo" Yui laughed in amusement from the background. She was so proud of her best friend and this deserved another celebration, a new step into Miaka's future and forgetting Tamahome. Something they had all wanted for so long.

"Listen Keisuke, Miaka is safer here and I think we can all agree on that. But we need to get her stuff from Taka's place. I need Tetsuya here to protect them while we head to Taka's flat" she explained

The line went quiet for a brief time, Keisuke sighing "hai, that's an understatement. Me and Tetsuya will be over shortly" Keisuke responded before hanging up

Tetsuya held Yui closely, acknowledging the bruise on her arm, though shaken she was unharmed. But Tetsuya was still angered deeply by this, he knew Yui suffered deeply at the hands of Nakago and some bandits when she first arrived in the book. Knowing Taka had hurt her despite knowing this made it worse. He was silent with rage as he simply held his girlfriend close to comfort her. "Gomen Tetsuya, Yui got hurt because Taka was looking for me, she tried to protect me" Miaka apologized solemnly, she hated that he felt helpless. She hated that he couldn't be here to protect Yui and more so that it was her fault. Taka had shown up here for her, if she wasn't here then maybe it wouldn't have happened.

Tetsuya's expression darkened "Miaka, never apologize for the actions of an asshole. Yui protected you because she loves you, as do we all. If anything I'm pissed at him for laying his hands on her to get to you" he reassured her. Miaka had nothing to apologise for, she'd been suffering his abuse first hand, she'd been struggling alone all this time. There wasn't anything Yui and the rest of them wouldn't do to protect her. The light in her eyes had died, she had visibly lost weight because of him and seemed paler. But she was on the road to recovery and finding herself again.

"But…." Miaka stammered, fighting back fresh tears as her voice began to tremble.

Tetsuya approached to ruffle Miaka's head affectionately, given he was dating her best friend. He'd come to look at Miaka like a little sister, as well as a sister in law "Miaka, you're Yui's best friend, you never gave up on her and now she's not giving up on you. I'm Yui's boyfriend and to me, you're damn family, the next time I see that jerk I'm gonna turn his face black and blue" he warned. Taka had proven he was no better than Nakago at this point, he was manipulative and cruel, their relationship based on his terms.

Miaka softened and smiled shyly "Arigato Tetsuya" she muttered

Miaka then felt Tetsuya wrap his arms around Miaka protectively, stiffening at the gesture before relaxing "You've been a brave girl Miaka, and we are all so proud of you" he soothed. They all loved her which was why they were going to these lengths for her sake. Yui approached, wrapping her arms around Miaka from behind despite the slight pain in her arm, she didn't regret acting as Miaka's shield. Noriko followed suit, hugging both Yui and Miaka and burying her face in Miaka's reddish brown hair.

Keisuke sighed heavily before approaching and cuddling Miaka "You're a pain in the ass as a kid sister Miaka, but we love you. You never deserved how Taka treated you" he comforted her. Miaka felt her eyes stinging with fresh tears, she wondered what she did to deserve this kind of love. To have people still willing to protect her after everything, closing her eyes and nuzzling against her friends, a gentle red glow radiating from her body.