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Chapter Text

Diana waited at the Ley Line Terminal for the others to arrive. After everything involving the Missile Crisis, it was actually nice to enjoy summer break. Of course now school was starting and she was the first to arrive... naturally. Diana looked at a watch, which Akko had given her before she left for Japan.

"I thought we agreed to meet here 53 seconds ago." She said.

"You really are a stickler for time, you know that?"

Diana looked to her left and saw Amanda walking towards her.

"Well someone in this group has to be." Diana said, "I can at least make up for your tardiness."

"See, this right here is why I went back to the US for break." Amanda said, "The British are too reliant on rules."

"Of all the people to arrive after me, it had to be you."

"Admit it, you missed me." Amanda said, hip bumping Diana.

Diana stepped to the side from the bump, but quickly recovered and looked at Amanda with a look that said 'Stop or I'm going to slap you'.

"I will never admit it."

"But you aren't denying it either!" Amanda said.

"Is she bothering you, Diana?"

The two looked and saw Hannah and Barbara walking towards them. Diana smiled.

"Yes, but no more than usual." Diana said, "How have you two been?"

"Pretty good." Barbara said, "Exploring Europe was so much fun, I wish you could've gone."

"As do I, but sadly I could not afford something like that." Diana said, "Someone has to keep an eye on my family."

Hannah walked up to Amanda.

"And you." Hannah said, looking up at the taller girl, "Rob anyone important over the summer?"

"Well there was this one guy." Amanda said, "Not really that important. Weird hair, a horrible fake tan, lives in this big white house. What about you? See anything fun while touring the continent?"

"Well, it was nice to catch up with Lotte while in Finland." Barbara mumbled.

"What was that?" Amanda asked with a grin.

"Nothing." Barbara said as she looked around. "Where is Akko anyway? I thought she would've been the first one of us to get here."

"I was wondering that too." Diana said, "Though, it is possible that she ran into Lotte and Sucy and you know how she is when she sees them."

"Yeah, she acts like she hasn't seen them for years, even if they've only been apart a day." Amanda said, "After a couple months? I think we may not see them with how hard Akko hugs."

"Speaking of teams, where are Constanze and Jasminka?" Barbara asked.

"Eh, I saw them earlier." Amanda said, waving Barbara off, "Jasna and Cons were heading to a bakery, so... you know what that means."

"We won't see them for a bit." Diana said, "Well, I suppose it can't be helped."

'But why hasn't she contacted me in any way by now? Has something happened?' Diana thought with worry.

She got even more concerned when she saw Lotte and Sucy coming towards the terminal... without Akko.

"Hopefully you haven't been waiting long." Lotte said, smiling a little, "Sucy saw some mushrooms."

"I'm not sorry." Sucy said.

"Have either of you seen Akko yet?" Diana asked, getting straight to the point instead of greeting them.

"No." Sucy said, "We figured she'd be here."

"Well she's not." Diana said, getting concerned.

"It's Akko, she's the undisputed champion of being late, we know this." Amanda pointed out.

"Not for the first day of second school year. She kept saying she would be determined to be on time this year. No matter what." Lotte said, adjusting her glasses.

"Well, Constanze and Jasminka aren't here yet, so we still have time to wait." Diana said, "Japan is far away, it's likely that there was an issue with her travel."

"If you say so. I guess I can use this time to practice the spells I learned over the summer for fun." Amanda said, pulling out her want.

"They're not dangerous, are they?" Lotte asked, taking a step back.

"Please, it's me we're talking about." Amanda said.

The rest of them backed up.

'Akko, where are you?!' Everyone (minus Amanda) thought since if Akko had arrived on time, this situation probably wouldn't be happening right now.

(Line break)

Constanze and Jasminka were very confused when they arrived. Mostly because everyone was covered in ash as if they had just escaped a fire. Secondly because Lotte and Barbara were trying to stop Diana from impaling Amanda with her broom.

"What in the wide world of witches happened before we got here?" Jasminka asked with wide eyes, nearly dropping her bag of snacks in the process.

"…" Constanze reached into her pocket and pulled out a handkerchief to cover her nose from the smell.

"How was I supposed to know that a combustion spell would be that explosive?!" Amanda said.

"BECAUSE IT'S A COMBUSTION SPELL!" Diana shouted, "THEY DO ONE THING. BLOW UP!"

"... Will it take more than snacks to fix this?"

Constanze nodded. They all knew that Diana this mad meant that Amanda had to be on her best behavior for the next few days... or something would distract Diana and take her attention away. Thankfully, that distraction would come up soon.

"Where's Akko?" Stanbot asked, perched on Constanze's head.

That got Diana's attention.

"Okay, now this is becoming very concerning! She's never been THIS late before." She said, pulling out a watch to check the time.

"And we can't really wait much longer." Barbara said, "If we wait any longer we'll be late ourselves, and I really don't want to spend the first day on laundry duty."

"She's right." Lotte said, "As much as I hate to say it, we have to go without Akko."

"Besides, she'll probably fall through a portal and make a mess like last year." Sucy said.

"We heard about that. It sounded funny." Stanbot said as Constanze grinned a bit.

Diana didn't like the idea of leaving without Akko, but... she also knew she had no real choice.

"Come on, then. Let's go."

They all entered the terminal.

(Line Break)

They arrived at Luna Nova and smiled at the familiar sight.

"Okay... I'll admit it... I missed this place." Amanda said.

"Yeah. It does have that, quote unquote, magic to it." Hannah said with a smile.

"I wonder if the lunch menu has changed." Jasminka wonders.

The eight witches walked into the school, excited for the start of the year, when suddenly they say someone with their head against the wall and their arm blocking their face.

"Akko?"

Akko quickly wiped her face and turned to look at her friends.

"H-h-hey, guys!" She said.

"When did you get here?" Diana asked.

"Why were you leaning against the wall like that?" Amanda asked.

"Why is your face all wet?" Sucy asked.

"Oh, uh… I had to come back early. My wand got broke during break so I had to get another one." Akko said, "My punishment for breaking it is… I have to run laps around the school. Professor Nelson is the one that gave that punishment. I was just resting for a bit before resuming it."

"For a broken wand?" Lotte asked, confused.

"It makes sense with you of all people. You break more wands than a 7 year old breaks toys." Amanda said as she crossed her arms.

"Y-y-yeah, well, see you guys soon. Want to get my final couple laps in before the opening ceremony!" Akko said, before running down the hall and around the corner.

"Well, nice to know that she's still the same after break." Hannah said.

"Yeah, I was worried things would get boring here." Amanda said.

Diana looked… concerned.

'There's something off, but I can't put my finger on it.'

"Are you okay, Diana?" Barbara asked.

"Yes, I'm fine." Diana said, her gaze lingering in where Akko had turned, "We should head to the auditorium."

Diana moved ahead of the group, her mind still thinking about Akko and what she might be hiding behind her usually radiant smile.

'Hopefully nothing bad has happened.' Diana thought.

Chapter Text

The group went into the auditorium and looked around, seeing new and old faces.

“Another first day speech, let’s see if something crazy happens this year.” Amanda said.

“Well, Akko is attending again, so it might be possible.” Sucy said with a shrug.

“We can’t expect chaos with Akko all the time. It’s not like she’s trying to get into trouble.” Lotte said.

"Yeah, but you have to admit, trouble kinda just... finds her." Barbara said.

"It really does." Amanda said.

"It's true." Jasminka said, stuffing a donut into her mouth.

Diana looked around and saw Akko come in with Professor Ursula... Chariot... honestly Diana doesn't know what to call her now, she had forgotten to ask the Professor before she had left for the summer. That was besides the point, Akko was practically hiding behind Chariot.

'That's... strange.' Diana thought, 'Akko was never really one to hide away, she was usually the center of attention... whether she intended to be or not.'

Diana didn't get to think about it much longer as Headmistress Holbrooke walked onto the stage along with a few of the professors.

"Good morning everyone." She said, "To the students returning, please allow me to welcome you all back. As for the new students, welcome to our prestigious academy. Not only have we turned out some of the most successful witches, but we also are proud to say, we have the savior of magic enrolled here. Atsuko Kagari."

There was a bit of clapping, and a LOT of cheers. Akko gave a smile and waved for a small bit, before going back to hiding behind Professor Chariot.

"Before I explain the rules and regulations, I have an important announcement to make." Holbrooke said, before getting a serious expression, "With the return of magic throughout the world... There are those that have decided to fight against it. Over the summer, attacks on witches and wizards have become more and more common. While still only making up less than a percent of targeted attacks, we wish to ensure the safety of our students and staff. So please, do not go off campus alone. If you see something happen, please report it to the proper authorities immediately. We have been working with local law enforcement over the summer to help deal with these situations. While I can say that things are not at a point that we need to worry about, I still wish no harm comes to anyone."

The students began to mutter and look concerned. Attacks on witches? Something like that hasn’t happened since the time of Salem, hundreds of years ago. When humanity first discovered witches existed and labeled them all as evil.

Not all were evil, just a few that turned into the folklore of many stories.

“I know how it sounds, but please remember, staying together off campus will help prevent these attacks, and they will never be able to act out here.” Holbrooke said, “The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority.”

Everyone muttered and nodded in agreement as Akko looked down at the floor. 

“Now, I believe the second years and beyond remember the rules, even though some of them don’t obey them.” Holbrooke said, looking at Amanda, “Miss O’Neil.”

“Akko’s done worse!” Amanda said, getting a laugh from the crowd. 

“Regardless, all second years and above are free to leave and get settled in.” Holbrooke said, “As for you first years, I am going to go over the rules.” 

That’s when the group left the auditorium. 

“Ah, time to return to the old room and get my sleep on.” Amanda said.

“Classy.” Diana said, spotting Akko, “Excuse me.”

She briskly walked over to where the Japanese witch was standing and speaking with professor Ursula.

“Ahem.” Diana let out, causing Akko to jump a bit, “Akko, I didn’t get the chance to say this earlier but I am happy to see you.” 

“Oh, Diana.” Akko said, turning to her and calming down a bit. “Sorry I left in a rush. It’s nice to see you too.”

"You seem to be a bit on edge." Diana said, "Is everything alright?"

"Y-y-yeah, just... not really used to all the attention I've been getting since... everything." Akko said, "So I'm going to be spending the day with Professor Chariot. That way I have less of a chance of being swarmed by fans."

Diana nodded, even she had been asked for a picture or autograph, but she was simply more accustomed to it since she's part of a prominent family.

“I suppose that makes sense. If you want, I could teach you some spells in order to avoid the masses if the attention becomes too much.” Diana said.

"I... I will get back to you on that." Akko said, grabbing Chariot's hand and squeezing it gently.

"Yes, Akko is right, we should get going before the students get out." Chariot said, "Come along, Akko."

The two walked away, to the observation tower. Diana was left looking concerned.

‘Something happened to you, Akko. Something bad.’ Diana thought in concern.

"Diana, you mind helping me out before these two morons get into another argument?" Barbara asked, point at Hannah and Amanda.

"Y-y-yeah, just a second." Diana said.

She looked at where Akko and Chariot had left. She had a bad feeling about this.

(Line Break)

Akko looked out the window of the tower, not saying anything. Chariot walked over to her.

"Akko, it's-"

"Please... don't lie to me." Akko said, her voice so low you'd swear she wasn't even speaking.

Chariot frowned, before having an idea.

"You know, why don't we practice your magic? You must've gotten even better since the last time I saw you!"

"... I don't want to." Akko said, closing her eyes, "I... I just want to... I don't know."

Akko looked down and saw a group of witches down in the courtyard. They seemed happy, almost ecstatic to be there. Akko scowled at the sight. Chariot put a hand on Akko's shoulder.

"Akko, remember what we talked about."

Akko closed her eyes and shrugged Chariot's hand off. She felt tears form and tried to wipe them away. She wasn't successful.

"... Why?" Akko asked, "Why did this have to happen?"

Akko felt something wrap around her. She turned and saw Chariot putting a cape around Akko... Chariot's old stage cape.

"If there's one thing I hate, it's a frown. Especially on the face of a girl that deserves the world." Chariot said, "Maybe this can help bring her smile out, even if it's just for a minute. Afterall, I remember her being Shiny Chariot's number one fan."

Akko looked at the ground.

"I'm sorry I've become a burden to you." Akko said.

"Akko, look at me. You will never be a burden." Chariot said, pulling Akko into a hug, "You're more than just my student... you're a friend. One that I think we both needed."

Akko said nothing.

"Oh, I know something that might cheer you up." Chariot said, going to a small pot on the side of the room, "It was a pain to get them here, but... care for some pickled plums?"

“…I guess one couldn’t hurt.” Akko said, gaining the tiniest smile over her favorite treat.

“You can have more than one if you want, Akko. I understand how tasty these plums are.” Chariot said as she picked up the small pot.

Akko kept eating them. Soon they were gone. 

“Oh, those were good.” Akko said.

“I’m glad you enjoyed them. They were a challenge to get here, but to see you smile a little, they were worth it.” Chariot said.

‘It’s important that we can smile even in the worst of times, because that would be the death of hope.’ Chariot thought as she put the small pot away.

"Now, would you be willing to practice some magic?" Chariot asked, holding out Akko's wand to her.

Akko looked at it with a nervous look. Chariot offered a warm smile.

"I promise, I won't let anything bad happen." She said.

Akko slowly grabbed the wand. The second she grabbed it, she had a distant look in her eyes.

"Akko?" Chariot asked.

"H-h-huh?"

"I asked if you can do a simple levitation spell." Chariot said, motioning to the chair she pulled over, "Do you feel like you can do this?"

"Y-y-yeah. Totally!" Akko said, holding out the wand.

Akko's hand was shaking, that didn't go unnoticed.

'Oh, Akko.'

The wand began to glow with magic, followed by the chair. The chair floated into the air for a second, before something inside Akko flipped a switch. Her shaking hands couldn't hold the wand anymore. It dropped along with the chair. Akko started grabbing her uniform skirt so hard that her knuckles turned snow white. She was sweating immensely and looking around with heavily dilated eyes. Her heart rate had accelerated and she couldn't take it anymore. She pushed Chariot aside and rushed out of the room.

"Akko!" Chariot yelled, before rushing after her.

(Line Break)

Akko had run nonstop for... honestly she doesn't even know how long she's been running. Time stopped having a meaning to her, all that mattered was going somewhere safe. At the moment, that just happened to be a room she found behind the stairs on the eastern side of the ground floor. By the time she got in there, she collapsed and held her knees to her chest. Tears began to form in her eyes as she closed them. In her shuffle to hide herself from the empty room, her sleeve moved up... revealing bandages wrapped around her arm... dried blood showing up easily on the otherwise white wraps.

Chapter Text

Akko doesn't know when she fell asleep, but she does know that by the time she woke up, she felt horrible. Her body hurt, her head hurt, everything hurt. She stood up and looked around, seeing nothing but chests she found long ago that had been emptied equally as long ago. She quickly lowered her sleeve and walked back into the hall. She looked out the window and saw that the moon was already high in the sky, it was easily past curfew.

'I must've in that closet for hours.' She thought, holding her head in pain as she stumbled down the hall.

Not only did she run away from her professor and hide from everyone, most likely making her friends incredibly worried, but she also missed lunch and dinner, so she was basically fasting without knowing it.

'The others are probably so worried.'

The clearing of a throat made her jump. She turned and saw Professor Finnelan.

"You caused quite the scare, Miss Kagari." Finnelan said.

Akko slowly blinked. She looked at the ground.

"... I'm sorry." Akko said, her voice raspy.

Professor Finnelan looked at Akko. The young witch was pale, sweaty, hair a bit tangled, bags starting to form under her eyes, and honestly looked like she was about to throw up.

"Come with me." Finnelan said.

Akko did so in silence. She hugged herself as she looked at the floor. Finnelan opened the cafeteria doors and walked over to a table.

"Sit." She said.

Akko did as she was told. The professor walked to the kitchen and came back a few minutes later with a tray. She put it on the table in front of Akko and sat at the chair next to her. Finnelan grabbed the cup and put it in front of Akko and filled it with tea.

"Drink... you look like you need it." Finnelan said, pouring tea into her own cup.

Akko slowly grabbed the cup and brought it to her lips.

"Professor Chariot told us about what happened." Finnelan said, "We spent hours looking for you."

Akko looked away in shame.

"I'm sorry." Akko said, repeating her newly adopted catchphrase.

Finnelan put her cup down and looked at the young girl.

"We're worried." She said, placing a hand on Akko's shoulder, "When we learned about what had happened, we knew you would be struggling, but... I don't think the others know just how bad it would affect you."

Akko looked at the professor. It was a look that Professor Finnelan had known all too well.

"Miss Kagari, let me tell you a secret. I had an experience quite similar to you, roughly around the age you are as well... there were days when I just couldn't take it and I just wanted to run away and hide. Then there were the days that I was overcome with anger and hatred. Hatred towards friends, teachers, anyone that actually gave a damn about me." Finnelan said, clenching her fists out of shame, "Even now, years later, I can't look back upon those days without regret."

"... What changed? How did you get out of it?" Akko asked, hoping that she could do the same.

Finnelan let out a sad sigh. She knew what Akko was thinking.

"Sadly in this type of situation, what works for one doesn't necessarily work for the others." Finnelan said, "What got me out… was someone coming to me and becoming something of a mentor to me. Headmistress Holbrooke. I don't know why she even bothered with me. I tried to brush her off, but she refused to let me wallow in self pity. She stood by me then, made me believe I could be more, gave me purpose, and she's the reason I chose to become a teacher, so I can hopefully guide witches towards a better path."

Akko felt sad again. She already had a mentor, and she had just run away from her.

"You should eat something." Finnelan said, pushing a small sandwich towards Akko, "Going without food for as long as you have isn't good for your health."

Akko didn't say anything, she just took a single bite of the sandwich.

"Atsuko... don't block others out." Finnelan said, "There are those that care for you deeply, going as far as being willing to help stop a missile with you, even though the odds seem slim. Let them in, they may be able to help more than any professor can."

Akko remained silent, slowly eating her sandwich. Professor Finnelan gave her a sad look, knowing she's done all she can to help the girl. One thing she knew from her own experiences, it was going to get worse, long before it got better. No matter how much she wishes she could prevent that from happening.

After Akko had eaten as much as she could handle, which was sadly a little more than half the sandwich, Professor Finnelan decided to walk her back to the red team's dorm. Once there, Professor Finnelan kneeled down and put her hands on Akko's shoulders.

"I want you to remember, my door is always open in the event you need to talk." She said.

Akko just gave a small nod. Professor Finnelan stood up and opened the door. Inside, Lotte and Sucy were still up, waiting for Akko. Lotte practically lunged at the girl.

"Akko! We were so worried!" Lotte said, wrapping her arms around Akko, "We were told you had some kind of panic attack! Was it from the missile?"

"Y-y-yeah... I was practicing and just... I was back there and... it was too much." Akko lied.

Professor Finnelan walked away, feeling a bit upset by Akko's lie, but also understood why. It takes a lot to confess to something as serious as depression. With what happened to Akko, it'll take a lot more than that.

'I'll at least go let the others know that she's been returned to her dorm.' She thought, 'It will put Professor Chariot's nerve to rest a little.'

In the room, Lotte and Sucy were watching Akko.

"... I-I-I'm fine." Akko said, "It was just a small-"

"It was a panic attack, that's not small." Sucy said, "You should've said you were feeling the effects of that event."

"It's not easy to speak about." Akko said.

"Maybe not, but we're here to listen." Lotte said, sitting next to Akko, "We're your friends, no matter what."

Sucy sat on the other side of her.

"We'd do anything to help." She said.

"Thanks." Akko said, "But... right now, I'm kinda tired."

"Then we'll talk more in the morning, you've had a long day." Lotte said.

It was late, only a little past one AM. Lotte and Sucy were deep in sleep. Akko though... She was still awake. All she could do was lay in bed and listen to the voices in her head.

'You're a failure.'

'You're a burden.'

'Everyone around you suffers.'

'You'll never amount to anything.'

'Everyone you know will die and it will be YOUR fault.'

That last voice was the only one that wasn't her voice. The more things she heard in her head, the worse she was feeling. It got to the point that she had reached into her bag and pulled out something that would stop the voices... the only thing that stopped the voices... a switch blade. She raised her sleeve and removed the bandages. She put it against her skin before thinking one thought.

'I deserve this.'

Chapter Text

Akko did not look good in professor Lukic's class. Due to them being older students, they got right to work on making potions instead of having a few days of safety instructions. Naturally, Akko and Sucy were partners.

"Akko, did you even sleep last night?" Sucy asked, "Your eyes are looking a bit bloodshot."

"I... I'm fine." Akko said, her eyes drooping a bit.

"Are you sure? You look like a zombie." Sucy said.

"Is that a compliment or an insult?" Akko joked.

"It's concern." Sucy said, one of the rare times she's shown concern.

"I'm fine." Akko said, her eyes almost fully closed.

"It's funny, because I don't believe you."

"I'm fine, Sucy." Akko said, before yawning, "Let's just finish this potion."

Akko reached and grabbed a vial. She went to pour it, so exhausted that she didn't even check what it was. Sucy's eye went wide as she realized what Akko was about to pour.

"Akko, wait, that's not-"

Too late. The dragon's breath went into the potion. Fun fact, it's called that... because it burns worse than fire. Add it to a potion properly, and it can be used to speed up the heating process, use incorrectly like Akko just did? Boils over with enough strength to burn through wood. That's exactly what happened. Akko woke up for a second when she heard the bubbling and smelt smoke. She looked down and saw it boiling over. As if that wasn't bad enough, the ingredients weren't mixing well... which meant only one thing... an explosion was about to happen with Akko's face being directly above it. In the blink of an eye, the potion went boom, and Akko prepared for the pain... but it never came. Instead she felt a push, and heard a scream.

'Sucy!?' Akko thought.

She hit the floor and looked up, seeing Sucy falling to her knees with her arms smoking from the potion. Sucy just looked at her arms as the potion burned through her sleeves and began eating away at her skin. She had never been in this much pain before in her life. She tried to hold in the pain... but that was a losing battle.

"rrrrRRRRAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

The scream was otherworldly, gaining the attention of the entire class. Professor Lukic rushed over and pulled a blue bottle out of her sleeve. She poured it over Sucy's arms.

"This will mitigate the burning, but I'm taking you to the infirmary right now." Lukic said, before helping Sucy to her feet.

She led her out the door. People went to speak with Akko to ask what happened, but they turned to her and saw that she wasn't there. Just gone without a word.

A small orange mouse ran through the halls, trying to avoid being seen by anyone.

'IDIOT! YOU FUCKING IDIOT! YOU BURNED ONE OF YOUR BEST FRIENDS!' Akko scolded herself, 'WHY DO YOU HAVE TO RUIN EVERYTHING!?'

Akko kept running until something grabbed her tail. She looked behind and saw a cat paw holding her tail. The cat then bit down on the back of her neck and lifted her off the ground.

"Well, looks like we found ourselves a little mouse." Hannah said, walking up to the cat, "Good job, Barb."

Hannah took Akko from Barbara before Barbara turned back to normal.

"We heard Sucy is in the infirmary." Barbara said, "We know you were her partner, so we want to know what happened."

Akko looks down. She felt tears come back as she recalled the events of the past ten minutes.

"It was my fault!" Akko said, "I messed up and she got hurt because of me!"

The two British witches looked at each other, sharing a look.

"Okay, maybe explain from the beginning." Hannah suggested.

"W-w-we were working on a potion and I added the wrong thing or the wrong amount or something like that." Akko said, "it started bubbling and burning and then it just exploded and... Sucy pushed me out of the way... she got her arms burnt because I was too stupid to do the potion right!"

Akko was sitting on Hannah's hand, holding her tail as if that would help comfort her.

"Honestly, I think you're beating yourself up over nothing." Barbara said, "It sounds like an accident and I'm sure Sucy will forgive you."

"Yeah, she's nice." Hannah said, getting a look from the witch and mouse, "... Okay, she's nice when you get to know her. Whatever, let's just go speak with her."

"W-w-what?" Akko asked, looking nervous.

"We'll go speak with Sucy and you can hear her tell you that she would do it again."

"I'm willing to put money on it that she'll tell you, word for word, that 'I would do it again in a heartbeat, no question asked'." Barbara said, taking the mouse from Hannah, "And just so we know you don't run away."

She took the ribbon from Hannah's hair and tied Akko up in it. Akko struggled in the ribbon, even trying to undo her transformation spell, but somehow she was unable to!

"Struggle all you want, that's a charmed ribbon to prevent it from breaking." Barbara said.

"Why is that even a thing!?" Akko yelled.

"Because this ribbon was given to me by my grandmother before she passed, I'm not going to risk something bad happening to it." Hannah said, "Come on, let's go see Sucy."

Sucy looked at her wrapped up arms. The burning and pain had been stopped, but Sucy knew that healing from potion burns would be an annoying process. The chances of burn scars was very high and the numbness of her arms was annoying, even if they would be better by tomorrow. She heard the door open and saw Hannah and Barbara walk in, Barbara holding an orange mouse in her hand that kept trying break free of the ribbon it was wrapped in.

"Feeling better, Sucy?" Barbara asked.

"Yeah." Sucy said, "Judging by this site, either you brought me lunch or Akko was trying to hide after the accident."

"Yeah, it's the first one, here you go." Barbara said, handing Akko over to Sucy

Sucy looked at Akko.

"You've been crying." Sucy said, seeing the dried tears going down Akko's fur, "Let me guess, you're feeling responsible."

"Sucy, I-"

"Akko, I have literally gone with you on every dumb and life threatening adventure you've been a part of." Sucy said, "I didn't do that because I was forced to, I did it because I'm your friend, and I care for you. I would do anything to stop you from getting hurt."

"….even if it gets you killed?" Akko asked.

"Even then. And I don't die so easily, so don't go thinking so." Sucy said with a teasing grin.

"But I-"

"I willingly pushed you out of the way, I knew I would get hurt." Sucy said, "Now stop blaming yourself or else I will eat you."

"... Please don't."

Sucy held Akko by the tail.

"I don't know, you're bite sized." Sucy said holding Akko in the air, over her mouth, "And I did miss lunch because of you."

"Sucy! Stop!"

"Stop fighting little mouse, you're looking pretty tasty!"

Akko tried to get out of the ribbon, which caused Sucy to laugh and toss her onto a nearby chair.

"You know I'm just messing... I would turn you into a mushroom if I wanted to eat you."

"Oh, thanks, can't wait for that nightmare." Akko said, "Get me out of this ribbon!"

"Are you done being all sad over this?"

"Y... yes." Akko said.

"Good, Hannah, take your ribbon back."

Hannah grabbed Akko and undid the ribbon.

"Ugh, smells like Akko."

"I didn't have a choice in the matter!" Akko said, before scurrying away.

They watched as she ran off.

"... Why is she still a mouse?" Barbara asked.

"I think that's just Akko's true form." Sucy said.

"I always wondered... why does she squeak? She's very capable of speaking like a human as an animal, but she always makes animal noises." Hannah said.

"I think she just likes to do it." Sucy said, "Now, if you two could be so kind as to get Lotte as I'm going to need her to take notes for me next class."

Akko tossed and turned in bed, another night filled with nightmares. Her eyes shot open as her sheets were drenched in sweat. Once her breathing returned to normal, she looked over at Sucy. She was deep in sleep. Akko's eyes focused on the bandages that peaked out from under her sleeve.

'This was all your fault.'

Akko closed her eyes and tried to fight back against the voice.

'She did that to protect me.' Akko thought, 'She cares about me.'

'She probably just lied.' The voices said, 'She doesn't care about you, she only did it because you're her favorite test subject.'

'N-n-no... you're... you're wrong!'

'Am I?'

"Y-y-yes?'

'Then why did you phrase that as a question?'

'...'

'That's right, you are NOTHING. You are a BURDEN. They don't care about you, they only PITY you. Once that's dried up... they'll leave you and you'll be all alone.'

Akko felt tears form in her eyes.

'Crying? Are you really that fucking pathetic? Just do what you do best and grab your knife, you coward.'

Akko reached into her bag and pulled out her switchblade. She removed the bandages around her arms and put the cold metal against her skin, slowly dragging it across her skin. Once she did, her mind was empty. No voices, no more thoughts... no more sadness. Once she had an appropriate amount of pain, she put the knife away and wrapped her arm back up. She laid in bed and looked at the bottom of Lotte's bunk.

'I deserve it... I deserve to suffer.'

Chapter Text

Diana was having tea with Barbara and Hannah, their usual afternoon activity.

"How have you two been after this first week?" Diana asked.

"It's been nice." Hannah said, "I won't say that I missed school specifically, but... being with the others again reminded me how much fun having some unpredictability in life can be."

"Yeah, Lotte and I are already planning an entire day for when the new Nightfall book releases next month." Barbara said.

Hannah and Diana shared a look, which made Barbara blush a bit.

"W-w-what? What's with the faces?" She asked.

"Have you ever thought that you might... have feelings for Lotte?" Diana asked.

"W-w-what!?"

"I mean, when we were traveling around Europe, I can safely say that when we saw her in Finland, you were at your happiest." Hannah said, "You clearly feel happy just being around her."

Barbara went into defensive mode.

"W-w-what? No! She's just really cool! It's... it's not like I lie awake thinking about her."

"I know you don't." Hannah said, "Because you keep me up all night with your sleep talking! Which by the way... IS ALWAYS ABOUT LOTTE!"

Barbara nearly dropped her tea cup as her face turned completely red with steam coming from her ears.

"T-t-that's not... I don't-"

"Oh Lotte, I just love spending time reading with you." Hannah said, mimicking Barbara's voice.

"T-t-that doesn't mean anything-"

"Oh Lotte, your lips taste like cherries."

"I-"

"Oh Lotte, you have no idea how lovely it is to have married you under the light of the Sorcerer's stone."

"..."

"Oh Lotte, yes, harder, punish me with your-"

"THAT ONE NEVER HAPPENED!" Barbara said, face more red than a fire hydrant.

"No, it did." Diana said, "I was studying when I heard you say that."

"... Fuck me."

"We all know you want Lotte to do that."

"I will smash that teapot over your head if you keep talking!" Barbara said, glaring at Hannah.

Diana let out an amused chuckle. Oh how she missed this during the summer.

"Moving on, I heard about an accident the other day involving Sucy." Diana said.

The two shared a look. Not really anyone knew what had happened apart from an accidental over pour, but that's really it.

"Yes, she got burnt by a potion accident." Barbara said.

"Strange, Sucy is usually very careful with potions." Diana said, drinking from her cup.

"It was... actually Akko... that caused the accident." Hannah said.

Diana spit her tea on the floor.

"What!?" Diana said, "How!? I know that Akko is usually not the best with potions, but she is at least very careful when it comes to being around active potions!"

"From what Sucy said, she's been losing sleep, and that caused her to put in the wrong ingredient." Barbara said, "Sucy even said that she's seen Akko tossing and turning in her sleep, muttering something about being sorry."

"Nightmares? She's been having nightmares?" Diana asked, "Then... why hasn't she ever said anything?"

"We don't know, we haven't been around her much." Hannah said, "And Lotte and Sucy have said that she's been fairly quiet and reserved lately."

Diana thought about it for a second before standing up.

"I shall return soon." Diana said, "I might know someone that can tell me more."

Diana walked out of the room and closed the door behind her. Hannah looked at Barbara.

"Now, if you need help proposing to Lotte, I know a really nice spot to-"

Barbara literally tackled her off the couch.

Diana walked up the stairs to the observatory tower. She knocked on the door and was greeted by a pair of red eyes.

"Diana, how many I help you?" Chariot asked.

"Sorry to bother you Professor, but I need to speak with you." Diana said, "... It's about Akko."

Chariot's face changed from happy to serious. She opened the door all the way and allowed Diana to come in.

"I had a feeling you'd be perceptive enough to notice her recent behavior."

Diana walked into the room and looked around. Not much had changed since last semester, but she did notice a framed picture of Chariot and Akko on the wall. Diana smiled at that, noticing the honest and wide smile on Akko's face. Her mood then changed as she remember how much of a fake smile Akko put up.

"Yes, her mood recently has been very... it's not like Akko at all." Diana said, "I noticed. Hannah and Barbara have noticed. I'm sure the others noticed as well. Sucy even said that she's seen Akko having nightmares. Do you know what's going on with her?"

Chariot got a sad look in her eyes. She cast her eyes to the ground. Diana knows that look.

"You know something." She said, "What is it? Please tell me so I can help Akko."

"Sadly, this isn't something you can fix." Chariot said, "Diana, you deeply care about Akko, you need to remind her of that. Remind her that there are those around her that care about her. That is all I can tell you."

"Tell her that... what's going on? Why won't you tell me? How am I supposed to help if you won't answer me!?"

"Diana." Chariot said, using her professor voice, "I know you care, but getting worked up won't help. Akko needs you to be level headed and prepared for anything."

"But-"

"All I can tell you is that the staff have been sworn to secrecy by the Headmistress. We couldn't tell you what happened even if we wanted to." Chariot said, "... Akko wants it that way."

"Akko... she wanted this?"

"The only way you'll be able to know, is if Akko herself tells you." Chariot said, "So as much as I wish I could help, I am unable to."

Diana was upset. Not at Chariot, but more at the universe itself.

"I... I understand. Thank you, Professor." Diana said, rubbing her arm, "Um... before I go... could I..."

Diana pulled out a picture of Shiny Chariot. Chariot smiled and grabbed a pen. She wrote on it and gave it to Diana.

"There you go." Chariot said, "Nice to know there are two people I gave honest inspiration to."

Diana grabbed the picture.

"Thank you, Professor."

Diana left the room, holding the picture close. She looked at the picture.

To Diana.

Remember, believe in yourself, that's your magic.

- 'Shiny' Chariot Du Nord.

'Believe in yourself.' Diana thought, 'That's what I'll do. I believe we can help Akko... because that's what she would do for us.'

Chapter Text

It was another day that Akko had to drag herself out of bed. She may be able to put on a happy face, but she can't change her appearance as easily. She had very large bags formed under her eyes. Her eyes were bloodshot from all the crying she did. If you looked closely, you could even see her uniform was a bit big on her. She hasn't had anything more than the bare minimum of food and each day was eating less and less. Amanda and Diana were on their brooms looking down at Akko as she got on hers.

"Are you ready, Miss Kagari?" Professor Nelson said.

"... Yes." Akko said, quietly.

"Then take to the sky!"

"Tia Freyre." Akko said.

Akko flew into the air, joining the other students. Amanda and Diana just shared a look.

"I don't like this." Diana said.

"I know, I don't either." Amanda said, "It's like she's an entirely different person. Have you tried talking to her?"

"Yes, but she just brushed me off and said she was fine."

"The most obvious lie I've ever heard." Amanda said, laying down on her broom, "Maybe we should go into town, maybe a change of scenery would help?"

"Normally I would say you're wrong, but... that might help."

"See? I'm not wrong after all." Amanda said with a prideful smile. "So just go up to her and invite her to go into town after classes."

"But what if Akko says no?" Diana asked.

"Force her, simple as that." Amanda replied.

"I... I can't just force-"

"Ugh, you useless lesbian." Amanda said, "Fine, I'll do it."

Amanda flew over to Akko and smirked.

"Yo, Akko, I just got Cabbage head to say I was right." Amanda said, "What about we go to town to celebrate."

"Amanda, I don't really-"

"Sorry, Akko, I wasn't asking." Amanda said, "We're going to town later and that's final. You don't have much of a say... besides... Diana REALLY wants you to come."

"S-s-she does?" Akko asked, "Why?"

"Why? Girl, are you blind? Do I need to have Lotte take you to get glasses? That girl loves you."

Akko looked confused, then scared.

"L-l-love? That... that can't be true." Akko said, before quietly saying, "I'm not worthy of love."

She didn't think it was loud enough for Amanda to hear, but Amanda did.

'Good thing I have a good poker face, otherwise she might notice that I heard that and book it.'

"Well, it's the truth. I'll come get you later." Amanda said.

"But-"

"See you then!" Amanda said as she flew away. "And don't try to hide, I'll find you!"

Amanda went back over to Diana.

"Easy as that, you Gayby." Amanda said.

"I am not gay." Diana said.

"Then you're Bi or Pan."

"I am straight."

"Yeah, as a circle." Amanda countered, "Just admit you like the girl."

"I will push you off that broom if you don't stop right now."

Amanda rolled her eyes and flew off to go bother Hannah... her favorite past time. Diana was left along to think.

'Even if I was gay, and I'm NOT, I don't have time to focus on a relationship with Akko in this state.' Diana thought, looking at Akko just floating in the air, not moving, 'She needs help.'

(Line Break)

After classes, Amanda was dragging Akko through the halls.

"Ready for a fun afternoon, Akko?"

"I would much rather spend it sleeping in my room after doing my homework." Akko said.

"Liar, we don't have any homework today." Amanda said.

"I have classes that you aren't in, you know." Akko said, "So I could have homework."

"Akko, look at me in the eyes and tell me the last time you cared about homework."

"…"

"That's what I thought. Come on, it's the first time all nine of us have hung out since last school year, doesn't that sound like fun?"

"Yeah but school is just as important. Even more for since I couldn't even use magic until before our first year. I need to work harder to catch up with everyone." Akko reasoned.

"Well you saved the world and brought magic back from the edge of extinction so I think you're owed one." Amanda said.

"I'm not owed anything, trust me." Akko muttered.

'If I'm owed something, why did something I cherish get taken away?' Akko thought.

"Well then you deserve something." Amanda said, "And that something is-"

"Not an annoying American dragging you by your wrist." Hannah said, "Seriously, why did we trust you with this?"

"It was my idea." Amanda said.

"Yes, which is why my expectations are low." Hannah said, pushing Amanda aside, "Move you brute. Let someone elegant handle this."

"Do you know someone?" Amanda asked.

The two were about to start fighting, which is why Diana took Akko's attention away from them.

"I have no idea what I'm going to do with those two." She said, "Are you excited, Akko?"

"... Not really." Akko said, "I haven't been feeling like moving lately."

"Which is exactly why we want to do this." Diana said, holding Akko's hands, "We've noticed your mood is getting a bit... sad... as of late and we were hoping that this could help cheer you up a bit. We just want to help."

'I didn't ASK for your help.' Akko thought.

But she was still Akko, so instead of speaking her thoughts, she said something different.

"... Okay... what's the worst that can happen?" Akko asked, putting on a smile.

Everyone was just happy to see her smile that they didn't even realize... It was a fake smile.

'Another disaster could happen and it would be all your fault.' Akko's mental demons said to her.

'No it won't because I won't let it happen.' Akko thought.

'Keep telling yourself that. You walking calamity.' Akko's mental demons said once more.

"Alright, let's go have some fun!" Amanda said.

"... Ten pounds says she ends up in prison by the end of the day." Hannah said, holding up a tenner.

"Twenty says it takes an hour." Barbara says, pulling out a 20 pound note.

"Have a little faith." Akko said, getting some looks, "... I think I have a 10k Yen note on me."

"How much is that in pounds?"

"About 50." Akko said.

"A ten k note of money in Japan is worth 50 pounds?!" Barbara shouted.

"It's the money exchange rate." Akko said, putting her money away.

"You really need to study more." Diana said to her lackey.

"Why do you even have Yen?" Sucy asked.

"I haven't had time to go to a money exchange." Akko said, "I've been... busy."

"Ugh, you people are wasting time!" Amanda said, "I'm going to head to town, if you want to come, then follow me."

(Line Break)

They arrived at town and everyone, minus Akko, got excited.

"Oh yeah, I wonder how the club is doing." Amanda said.

"The last thing we need to do is watch you pull out a fake ID and get drunk." Hannah said.

"Hey, I don't do that!" Amanda said, "I threaten them until they hand over the booze."

"You can't wait a year and a half to drink?"

"Nope!"

The others looked at Amanda and Hannah about to start another argument.

"Maybe we should leave them to this?" Lotte suggested.

"But if we do, they might suddenly start kissing." Sucy said blankly.

"Please do not make us vomit." Stanbot said as Constanze made a gagging expression.

"Maybe we should get something to eat first?" Jasminka suggested.

Diana just got tired and walked up to the two arguing. She grabbed them by the ear and started pulling them along.

"I'm fine with whatever." Diana said, "And I'm sure they'll agree. Right?"

"Y-y-yeah, anything." Hannah said.

"If you don't let go of my ear, I will fucking hurt you." Amanda said.

"I'm not intimidated." Diana said, "Hey, Akko, what do you feel like doing?"

Akko wasn't paying attention, the reason being she saw something. It was blue and white police tape.

"What happened over there?"

"It looks like an accident happened." Lotte said.

"Or maybe some sort of breaking and entering." Sucy suggested.

"Let's check it out!" Amanda said, excited.

"You're way too excited about that." Hannah said.

Nonetheless, they went to check it out. What they saw sent a chill down their spine. In an alleyway, was a burn scarecrow with a witch outfit on, with the wall behind it having the words "Death to all Witches" in red... what the group hoped was paint. The others were a bit shook, but Akko... she was pale, her eyes went wide while her pupils dilated.

"Akko?" Diana asked, seeing Akko's change in mood, "Akko, are you-"

Akko took off running.

"Akko!"

Akko didn't hear any of them, she could only hear the sound of her heart beating a mile a minute.

'No! No not here! This place was supposed to be safe! So why are those people here?!' Akko thought in a panic.

"Akko, wait!" Diana said, running after her.

'What's gotten into her?' Diana thought, before noticing something.

"Akko, watch out for the stairs!"

Diana reached out to grab Akko right before she fell down a flight of concrete stairs leading to the street from a fountain... sadly the momentum caused Akko to fall regardless, and since Diana grabbed her, Diana went down as well.

(Line Break)

Akko woke up with a groan, and a splitting headache.

"W-w-where am I?"

"The infirmary." A nurse said, "You and Miss Cavendish took a bit of a tumble in town and your friends brought you here."

"D-D-Diana got hurt?" Akko asked, "Is she-"

"You can go see her as soon as we make sure you don't have any lasting injuries." The nurse said, "You experienced some cuts and bruises after your fall, and you seem to have a mild concussion. Luckily those should heal quickly with a bit of rest."

Akko looked down and noticed something. The old bandages around her arms were replaced with fresh ones. The nurse then gave her a look.

"And of course there's the matter of your arms." The nurse said, "I will have to speak with Headmistress Holbrooke about that. Once she signs off on it, we can offer you some services to help with... I can tell you're not listening."

The nurse put her clipboard down and put a soothing hand on Akko's shoulder.

"Don't worry, we won't tell your friends. We can only tell the staff members that are aware of your current state of mind." The Nurse said, "Though, you should tell them. They're very worried about you."

"... They shouldn't worry about me... I'm a burden." Akko said.

"I beg to differ." The nurse said, "I'm sure you have a lot of fans after saving magic, but those 8? They're real friends. They don't care if you're famous or not, they worry about you because they are afraid of losing you."

"... Can I go now?" Akko asked.

The nurse sighed and signed something.

"Yes, I just want to prescribe you some medicine to help mitigate the head issue you'll have with your concussion... as well as some sleeping medicine." The nurse said, "As I can tell by your eyes that the 40 minutes between your fall and waking up here is the most you've gotten all week. You can pick them up tomorrow from Academy store B. And just so you know, because I know you might try, they are medical potions that are made specifically to prevent overdosing."

Akko just nodded and quickly left the room. She pulled her sleeves down to hide the bandages.

"Akko."

Akko looked over and saw Diana, her leg in a cast and crutches holding her up.

"D-D-Diana, I-"

"Are you okay?" Diana asked, "I was so worried about you."

"But what about-"

"Akko, this is not the first time I broke my leg." Diana said, "I'll be fine in a few weeks. I'm more worried about you."

"I... I need to... I need to go speak with Professor Chariot!"

Akko quickly ran away, except this time, Diana had no ability to chase after her. Diana let out a sigh.

"Well, if we had a track team, I'd say she should join it." Amanda said, leaning against the wall, "Guess my idea only did more harm than good."

"Not exactly." Diana said, "I might have figured something out. When we saw the burnt witch scarecrow, we all got a little nervous, but Akko... she looked like she was having some sort of traumatic flashback."

"You think she experienced something like that over the summer?"

"I wouldn't doubt that. If she was attacked, or at the very least; threatened, it could explain her recent behavior." Diana said, turning to face Amanda, "Amanda, could you keep an eye on her? I can't do that for the time being."

"Yeah, I got it." Amanda said, "I wonder if her parents sent her back to Luna Nova early because of her being threatened? I mean she was here before us."

"I'll see about getting into contact with her parents and getting some information from them." Diana said, "Please, let me know if something happens."

"Don't worry, Cabbage Head, I'll take care of her."

"... Okay... I trust you... Amanda."

Amanda smiled.

"Think that's the first time you've actually called me by my first name." Amanda said, lightly patting Diana on her shoulder as she walked past, "Don't worry, Diana, I'll make sure she doesn't do anything stupid... mostly. It is still Akko, after all."

(Line Break)

Akko was... actually she doesn't even know where she was either, she just knows she's alone. She fell to her knees and held her head as it throbbed.

"Wow, here I thought you couldn't fuck up anymore than you already have." The voice said.

Akko went cold as she looked up, seeing herself standing in front of her. Vision Akko kneeled down and gently patted Akko on the head.

"Either you hit your head a little too hard, or you finally lost it." Vision Akko said, before grabbing Akko by the hair, "Why do you even still try? You're a failure, a burden, you are WORTHLESS."

"I-"

Vision Akko slapped Akko, knocking her back. Vision Akko stood up and smirked.

"Don't try and talk back, you know nothing you say will matter. First Sucy, now Diana? You're really going for the hurting everyone you care about speed run." Vision Akko said, "I'm just waiting for the day you finally break and accept your fate."

Akko blinked and suddenly the vision was gone. She put a hand on her cheek and could feel the sting from the slap.

'I... I am a failure. I'm sorry Diana, I'm so sorry I hurt you.'

Chapter Text

The professors were looking at the grades from the past two weeks and have noticed a

concerning pattern.

"Ms. Kagari is a C student at best, but she has shown improvement." Professor Badcock said, "However in the span of just two weeks she went from getting C's and B's to getting D's and F's."

"It is a concern." Professor Finnelan said, "Is it perhaps due to the fall she took?"

"I think it might be something worse." Professor Chariot said, "I've noticed ever since the fall, she occasionally gets very nervous when looking in a certain direction, almost as if someone she was scared of was there. Problem is, she's often just looking at a wall. This afternoon, I plan on asking her about it, I just need to find a way to do it without scaring her off."

"And what if something comes up or she makes up an excuse not to speak with you?" Finnelan asked.

"I'll have to cross that bridge when I get there."

'Please, Akko. Don't let it come to that.' Chariot thought.

(Line Break)

Akko was sitting in an empty room just looking at the floor.

"What's wrong, chase all your little friends away?" Vision Akko asked.

"Shut. Up." Akko said.

"Someone is Feisty!" Vision Akko said with a laugh, "It's funny really. You're acting all tough, when you're just a depressed little bitch."

Akko stood up, pushing the chair back.

"I am reaching my fucking limit with you." Akko growled.

"Oh? Well why didn't you just say so?" Vision Akko said, "What about this?"

She changed into Diana. Akko clenched her fists.

"Hm, not very accurate, I guess." Vision Diana said, "I don't have the leg that YOU broke!"

Akko swung at the vision, but it just disappeared. Akko was then knocked forward as Vision Diana reappeared behind her and punched her in the back of the head.

"How dare you try and hit this gorgeous face?" Vision Diana said, "Haven't you disfigured your friends enough?"

"I never meant to hurt you." Akko said, rubbing her head.

"You don't mean to do anything but be an annoyance." Vision Diana said.

Vision Diana grabbed Akko by the chin and forced her to look at her.

"You are the biggest mistake I have ever seen." Vision Diana said, "You should do everyone a favor and just hang yourself before you cause anymore damage."

"I-I-I-"

"No one will miss you." Vision Diana said, "Everyone will be happy if you finally die, and you said you wanted to make people happy, right?"

Akko shook a bit as the grip tightened. Suddenly there was a knock on the door.

"Akko, are you in there?" Chariot asked.

Vision Diana suddenly punched Akko in the eye, knocking her to the ground, just as Chariot entered.

"Akko? Are you okay?"

"I... yeah... I just... I just fell." Akko said, standing up.

Chariot walked over to Akko and put a hand on her shoulder.

"Akko, do you mind if I speak with you in the astrology room?"

"Sure. I don't mind." Akko said, turning her head in a way that made her hair cover the eye that "Diana" punched.

(Line break)

The two went to the astrology room and Chariot gave Akko a look.

"Akko, I am very worried about you." Chariot said, "Not only have you been looking physically exhausted, but your grades are slipping, you've been very quiet, and you look like you've seen a ghost most days."

Akko looked at Chariot, and saw Vision Akko behind her. Akko flinched a bit.

"Akko?" Chariot asked.

"I… I need to go."

Akko turned to go, but Chariot grabbed her by the wrist.

"Akko, please, don't run away from this." Chariot said.

Vision Akko smirked and leaned down to Akko's ear.

"Running away? That seems to be the only thing you're good for."

"Akko please talk to me. I just want to help." Chariot said.

"You're so far beyond help that it's pointless." Vision Akko said.

"Akko, I'm worried about you!" Chariot said.

"A failure to everyone. You failed your friends, you failed your teachers… you failed your parents." Vision Akko said.

"Akko, I know the incident has been hard on you, but you can always talk to me, I will listen no matter-"

Akko turned to Chariot so fast that her arm pulled out of Chariot's grip.

"Don't act like you know what I've been through!" Akko snapped, "You don't know what it's like to watch as everything you love is taken from you!"

Chariot took a step back.

"Akko, I just want to help."

"I don't need or want your help!" Akko yelled, "I am sick of people trying to wedge themselves into my life! Everyone that does just gets hurt!"

"Akko, we care about you!" Chariot said, "You're depressed, we know about this, we just want to help you get through it!"

Akko was shaking with rage. Vision Akko, being the instigator she is, whispered into Akko's ear.

"Look at her trying to play the mother figure." Vision Akko said, "Doesn't that just annoy you? She's trying to replace your mother."

Chariot stepped forward.

"Akko, please just-"

Chariot felt the force of Akko's fist hit her jaw. She was knocked to the ground and looked at Akko in shock. Akko finally snapped.

"How about you stop trying to act like my mother!?" Akko yelled, "Because guess what?! You aren't and never will be her!"

Akko turned and stomped out, slamming the door on her way out. Chariot just laid in the ground, wondering what to do, because she knew that Akko was close to doing something that she might regret.

'I need to find her!' Chariot thought, getting up.

(Line Break)

Akko stormed down the stairs and into the hall. It was the fourth floor so no one was really up there… except for two people.

"Akko?"

Akko turned and saw Barbara and Lotte. Lotte looked concerned about Akko's mood. Akko just turned and started to walk away. Sadly, Lotte didn't allow that to happen.

"Akko, what's wrong?" She asked.

"None of your business, Lotte." Akko growled, "Just leave me alone!"

Akko went to walk away, but Lotte grabbed her arm.

"Akko, wait, what's wrong? We can help!" Lotte said.

"I said leave me alone!"

"I'm your friend, I won't leave you alone when something is clearly troubling you!"

Akko was starting to get real angry.

"You know, she's it going to stop." Vision Akko said, getting between Lotte and Akko, "I don't even know why she bothers with you. You're just a pathetic. Little. Bitch."

Akko snapped. She swung at Vision Akko… but sadly, the only thing that happened was her fist going through Vision Akko and slamming into Lotte's face. Knocking her back and breaking her glasses. Barbara was instantly at Lotte's side, trying to help her up.

"Lotte! Are you okay?!" Barbara asked.

Akko just looked at her hand and then at the knocked out Lotte. She started to slowly walk backwards and quickly turned and ran down the hall. Just as she turned the corner, Chariot made it down the stairs. She rushed over to Lotte's side.

"What happened, Miss Parker?"

"I'll tell you what happened! Akko lost her fucking mind and punched Lotte out of nowhere!" Barbara said as she quickly pulled out a handkerchief for Lotte's bleeding nose.

"Akko did what?!" Chariot asked in shock.

"Do you know what way she went!?"

"No, I don't." Barbara said.

Chariot looked around and sighed.

"I am trusting you to get her to the infirmary." Chariot said, "I have to go let the Headmistress know about this… I was afraid something like this would happen."

(Line Break)

Akko flew as fast as she could. She held onto her broom so tightly that her knuckles were turning white. She couldn't focus and crash landed on the top of Luna Nova tower. Above her, the sorcerer's stone shined bright.

"Ugh!" Akko groaned in pain, lying on the rooftop as blood was leaking from her forehead.

"DAMN IT!"

She slammed her fists into the ground.

"Is now a bad time?" Vision Akko asked.

Akko glared at her. She wanted nothing more than to just beat the shit out of this hallucination. She grabbed her broom and growled at her.

"Ooo, this girl's gone rabid, time to put her down like she should've been a LONG time ago." Vision Akko said.

"SHUT UP!" Akko shouted, swinging her broom.

The broom didn't do anything but go through the vision and break in half after hitting the ground.

"Are you really that dumb?" Vision Akko asked, "Don't answer that, I already know the answer. Dumbass, I am a hallucination. You CAN'T hit me... I thought you'd figure that out after trying and knocking out that little ginger girl."

Akko looked at the ground, feeling worse than she's felt before.

"I didn't-"

"You did." Vision Akko said, "In fact, I distinctly remember her on the ground with a broken and bloody nose while unconscious."

Akko felt tears rush down her face. Vision Akko smirked as she walked up to Akko. She slammed her fist into Akko's nose, making blood rush down it.

"There, feel better? Now you have a broken nose as well!" Vision Akko said, "What? Not enough? Fine, I guess I can have some more fun with you."

Akko looked at her, only to be turned around and come face to face with Diana.

"D-D-Diana, what-"

"Why did you do it, Akko?" Diana asked, "After all we've been through, you dare hurt us?"

"I-I-I-"

Akko was grabbed by Hannah and Barbara and forced to her knees.

"We should've done this a long time ago." Barbara said.

"You're nothing but a waste of oxygen." Hannah said, "A stray dog that needs to be put down."

Vision Diana walked up and began slapping her, multiple times. As she did that, Vision Barbara and Vision Hannah were hitting her as well. They picked her off the ground and then threw her to the side. Akko was covered in bruises and blood. She crawled a bit, only for her hand to be stepped on. She looked up and saw Amanda.

"Honestly, how many times have you put us all in danger?" Vision Amanda asked, "Why would we ever bother hanging out with someone like you?"

Vision Amanda grinds her foot into Akko's hand, before kicking her in the head. Akko's vision was blurry, but she could see Constanze and Jasminka standing over her. Constanze looked angry at her and Jasminka looked like she wasn't going to share her snacks with her.

"I... I don't-"

"Why did you do this, Akko?" Vision Jasminka asked, "Do you really care that little about us?"

"No, you're my-"

Vision Constanze pointed a gun at her. Akko then tried to scramble away from her... only to run into Sucy.

"S-S-Sucy?"

"I did my best to be your friend." Vision Sucy said, grabbing Akko by the shoulders, "And YOU caused me to get burnt!"

"I didn't-"

"DO YOU LIKE WATCHING US SUFFER BY HELPING YOU!?" Vision Sucy yelled, "WHY DON'T YOU SHOW THE WORLD YOUR SCARS FOR A CHANGE!"

Vision Sucy ripped Akko's sleeves off, revealing her bandaged arms. Akko tried to hide it, but Vision Sucy wouldn't let her. She grabbed Akko by the wrists and slammed her head into Akko's face. Akko was dazed.

"You think that cutting your arms will make us better?!" Vision Sucy yelled, pushing Akko away, "You're wrong!"

Akko collided with someone else. Akko had a feeling she knew who it was... and how she wishes she was wrong.

"Akko... all I wanted was to help you." Vision Chariot said, "I thought I was your hero... clearly I was wrong. You're nothing but a burden, you're not a friend... you were right about me not being your mother... because I would be horrified to have a daughter as pathetic as you."

Akko tried to get away, but she was surrounded by the visions. They began to take turns hitting her, before attacking her all at once. Vision Akko just watched with a smile. After a couple minutes of Akko being attacked, she walked up to the beaten and bruised girl on the ground.

"You know, there's only one way for you to end the pain." Vision Akko said, helping Akko up, "Just take a bit of a walk and it's all over."

Akko slowly limped away... right to the edge of the tower. She looked down, holding her limp arm with her other one.

"You're a failure."

"A pathetic Loser."

"A waste of space."

"No one will ever miss you."

"Do the world a favor."

Akko closed her eyes, she couldn't tell who was talking at this point, but she heard multiple voices. She was just standing there, trying to decide on what to do, when someone helped her with it.

"Jump."

Akko looked to her side and saw Lotte standing there, bloody and broken nose, busted glasses, unable to even look at Akko.

"Lotte-"

"I hate you." Lotte said, "I always have. I was just too nice to say anything. In reality, I hate you with a burning passion. I would never miss you, no one would. You deserve to die and should just end it all before you mess something else up. You've hurt enough people."

Akko started crying silently. Hearing her first friend tell her that… it just broke her.

"Go on, do the world a favor." Lotte said, walking away, "Jump."

Akko looked over the edge of the massive tower... and walked off it.

Chapter Text

Akko felt like she was falling for hours. Her eyes were closed and she felt... at peace. She knew her suffering would soon come to an end and that everyone would be happier once she was nothing more than a red stain on the ground. As strange as it was... she had a sincere smile on her face.

'Just a few more seconds.' Akko thought.

Unfortunately for her, she felt something wrap around her and fly back up to the top of the tower. Akko landed on the tower top like a sack of potatoes, while Amanda scrambled off her broom and grabbed her.

"Akko!" Amanda said, "Are you okay!?"

"... Why?"

"A-A-Akko?"

"Why did you save me?" Akko asked, her voice full of anger but also quiet and timid, "Why won't you just let me die?"

"Akko, why would I sit back as my friend is falling-"

"We're not friends!" Akko shouted, "All you and the others have done is torture me!"

"Ak-"

"All I see is you and those other visions you create!" Akko said, "You wanted me to jump, you wanted me to end it all, so why did you save me!?"

Amanda gave Akko a look over, before seeing her bandaged arms. She grabbed Akko's right arm and removed the bandages. All she saw was dozens of scars, long and small, shallow and deep, fresh and old, littering her skin.

"Akko... why... why did you-"

"You know why!" Akko shouted, "You know all of it! You know that I'm a failure! A disgrace! That I'm the reason my friends hate me! That I'm the reason they're all hurt! That... that I..."

Akko closed her eyes and started crying.

"That I'm the reason my parents are dead!"

Amanda went still at that revelation. She just looked at Akko crying and holding herself.

'Oh Akko… you… you poor girl.'

Amanda reached out and pulled Akko into a tight hug. She couldn't do anything other than just let the Japanese girl cry on her shoulder. Akko just kept crying, while Amanda heard her mumble something about "Ruining everything" and "I'm a failure". Amanda just hugged her tighter until Akko seemed to just stop. Amanda looked at Akko and saw that she was out cold. Amanda didn't know if it was because of her lack of sleep, the adrenaline wearing off, or her body just not able to handle everything, but she knew she had to do something. She picked Akko up and began to go down the stairs. She wasn't going to risk using her broom and having Akko fall off, she's had enough being up high, and Amanda wasn't too good with teleportation magic with two people.

"Don't worry Akko, I'll take you to my room and then I'll let the others know." Amanda said, "This is not how I was expecting today to go."

(Line Break)

When Diana had been told what happened, she moved as fast as her crutches would allow. She was a witch on a mission, and she wasn't going to stop until she had completed said mission. Even if that involved doing something that completely went against her beliefs. She pushed the doors of the Nine Witches Hall open and went in, just as the professors were having a meeting with the headmistress.

"Miss Cavendish, this is a very poor time." Professor Badcock said.

"Oh, my apologies, I figured you'd like to know that Amanda had just informed me… THAT AKKO HAD JUST TRIED TO JUMP FROM THE TOP OF LUNA NOVA TOWER!"

Chariot stood up, looking like she was about to pass out.

"What!?"

"You heard me!" Diana yelled, "What's going on with her!?"

"Diana, you already know that we're under a spell-"

"I don't care if your fat gob is sealed with binding glue!" Diana shouted, "You're telling me what's wrong with her so I can help!"

"Diana-"

"She's one of the few people that have actually given a damn about me!" Diana said, "She never cared about my name, my status, she only cared about ME! So tell me what's going on so I can help her or I'm shoving one of these crutches up your arse, you wrinkly geezers!"

The professors just looked at Diana in shock. She had NEVER spoken to someone like that. Diana looked down, her anger starting to get replaced as the reality of the situation settled in.

"Please… I just want to help her… she's done so much for me, I just… I don't want to lose her." Diana said, tears coming to her eyes, "I… I can't lose her."

Headmistress Holbrooke walked up to Diana.

"Miss Cavendish… try to calm down, getting angry will do no one any good." She said, "If you wish to help, then I suggest you make your way to Miss Kagari as soon as possible. She can explain it better than we can, and she's going to need you. After she tells you, we can speak with you about this and you can discuss with us on how to help her. Sadly, that is all we can do at the moment. Now, please get to her so we can continue our conversation, as it looks like Professor Du Nord is feeling a tad unwell."

Diana looked over and saw Chariot holding onto a chair, looking pale. The mere thought of Akko being THAT close to death… it made her feel ill. Diana left the room, bitter, angry, she hated that she had to wait for Akko to tell everyone herself.

'She's my friend, one of the few people I can actually trust.' Diana thought, 'She's suffering and I… I don't know what to do!'

Diana leaned against the wall. It was all she could do to stop from falling against the floor, and she didn't want that for obvious reasons, but her remaining good leg was shaking and Diana could barely hold her crutches. She thought about Akko. All the things that made that girl happy and energetic, and… honestly sounded like a squeaky toy if you hugged her… vs this new Akko. The miserable, sad, willing to just end her life Akko. Those thoughts began to change to other thoughts. Every moment that Diana had with Akko. The mere thought of Akko brought a smile to Diana's face.

'She was so happy. So… pure. She… she was this ball of optimism that you couldn't help but love to be around.' Diana thought, 'Love…'

Diana thought about it. One word. Four letters. She closed her eyes. She denied it… for so long she denied it. Her entire life she had believed that she had to act a certain way. Behave and follow the expectation. Love the person you were told to love… the thought never even occurred to her until she met Akko. She understands why she was so mad that she couldn't help Akko. It's not because she's her friend, it's more.

'Love.'

…

…

…

…

…

'I love Akko.'