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   Half an hour, that's how long I've been in this damn room watching the hands of the clock go by, ("Ban yue, be late and you will suffer the consequences"), it's kind of ironic to remember that, the meeting should have started 20 minutes ago but no one has come through the door yet, I feel like I should be angry but the only thing going through my head is how weird this is.

  One of the Ban Clan's mottos is to act perfectly at all times, so how can the person who preaches this the most be late? Whenever this meeting takes place, my parents arrive exactly at the agreed time (it's strange to call them that), strongly judging those who don't do the same.

So why is this? Something is wrong, very wrong, and all my senses tell me it's not good. I don't want to sit around and find out after it happens, I'm going to leave.

 I said that, but even with my hand on the door, I can't move to open it. I can't help but laugh at how pathetic I am, "I can't stop shaking." I was given the order to always arrive 10 minutes before everyone else and leave 10 minutes later, disobeying such an order would mean suffering harsh consequences. Thinking about this, I look at the various scars spread across my body and take a deep breath, finally opening the door.

  "You only live once, right, Mei?"  Who would have thought that a low-ranking employee of the organization would make me feel things I've never done in these 19 years, by her side I feel...human. My lips twitch into a smile just thinking about her beautifully stupid face.

   I stop walking, leaning my body against the wall, clasping both hands above my heart, which has never been so light, forgetting my problems and focusing only on her image is a bad habit I've acquired and...SHIT I'M DOING EXACTLY THAT, how illogical am I acting????? I slap my hands on my face to wake myself up and focus on my goal. 

  "Right, find those two, suffer the punishment for disrespecting the order given to me, write down everything that is said at the meeting to my brothers and see Mei. I think that's all...". I quickened my pace, going down the stairs to head to the training site, the Wu-Xing organization has more than 800 members, not counting the apprentices, it is not possible to be so quiet and without any presence, something is definitely happening.

  My heart beat faster while my mind alerted me to something I didn't know, the closer I got to the last door that would lead to my destination, without thinking twice, I opened it just to see everyone around something. I couldn't suppress my surprised reaction, everyone is here, is it a fight? No, it wouldn't bring the entire organization together, and it certainly wouldn't be so quiet. 

   If the environment had any other sound, it would be impossible to hear this unmistakable noise, that of a body falling to the floor. Now everything makes sense, the delay in the meeting, everyone being gathered here and the deadly silence. The leader was punishing someone, showing not only the person but everyone at Wu-Xing what would happen if they did not comply with the orders he established.

   But that still doesn't explain why I wasn't called, they always make sure I see these punishments first hand, to "get used to it" and train me to apply them in the future. Shit, my heart was hurting from how hard it was beating, my arms were already hurting from all the effort I was putting in trying to get through so many people. I wish it was just in my head, but deceiving me like that would be stupid (another one for the list), it's just like them to do something like that, to do something with her.

   Would this be a punishment for me or an action driven solely by hatred? I don't know, anything is possible when it comes to them, the bastard leader along with his damn advisor, my beloved parents. In their eyes I was nothing more than a tool with a single purpose, to take care of their boys and ensure the Ban Clan's dominance in Wu-Xing.

   They never wanted a daughter, since women could never reach positions of real relevance within the organization, the only use I would have would be occupying the position of counselor. Normally it is a place occupied by the leader's wife, but they don't trust that someone from outside could support my brothers in the right way, in their own way.

     So from an early age I was molded and trained with this goal, as long as I didn't fail in my obligations they didn't care what I did in my useless life. That's why I thought it wouldn't be a problem, damn, damn, DAMN!, I always knew how much hatred they had for low-ranking employees, since they had no direct connection with any Wu-Xing clan, but because I was just a mere tool , I thought they wouldn't mind. Let me be wrong, please let me be wrong, let it not be her there, let it not be Mei, please.

    My desperate prayers fell on deaf ears, what did I expect? Being a descendant of a people who disinherited their deities could not be any different. I feel pain coming from my hands, my nails were digging into my palms and the blood was quickly dripping between my fingers, but I couldn't move, I couldn't even breathe. How could I, seeing this? Mei, who always has a smile on her face, who always welcomed me with a hug, is now lying on the floor almost lifeless.

    My heartbeat increases like it's about to explode, not from fear, anxiety or happiness it's anger. Without even thinking, I head to the railing ready to commit the biggest madness of my life until I feel two hands stop me.

   "What do you think you're doing?"

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I look back seeing my two brothers, Ban Chao and Ban Zhi, who were looking at me like I was crazy, maybe I am but it doesn't matter, nothing matters now, how could I? Mei is suffering, I refuse to stand by and see her life at risk, but they don't seem willing to let me go... should I rip off their arms? No, with what I'm about to do I will already receive a painful punishment, hurting them would only make my situation worse.

  "Let me go." Even with the difference in treatment I never hated my brothers, how could I? They are everything in my life, against my will, however not having hate does not mean having love. I've never been able to care about them, they've always been a means to complete the purpose I was given, but now these two are really getting on my nerves.

    "You have completely lost your mind, how can you even think about intervening?" Ban Chao sternly says these words squeezing his hand on my arm, as if I had already done the offense, he was someone who saw being born into a Wu-Xing clan as a blessing. The organization's rules were his way of living, it was obvious that he agreed with what was happening, Bastard.

  "Stop brother, you're going to hurt her like that, be understanding, it's her friend over there." In the Ban clan, Zhi is the only one who has a little compassion, but are there any point in nice words without any attitude? Would someone that good stand by and watch this? I laugh weakly as I close my eyes facing reality, no one in a position of privilege would try to intervene on behalf of a "lower class". Nobody interfered when it was me in Mei's place, it's funny how some have to kneel at the will of others, live in the cold while the worms snuggle in the heat, that they feel the same, that they freeze. 

        At that moment, their argument no longer reached my ears. The pain of fatigue, of my bloody hands, of the violent grip around my arms was no longer felt by my body. For a woman to use this technique is an offense to traditions, but I didn't come this far to stop for punishment.

      When I opened my eyes again, the silence that was already disturbing now reigned, no breathing was heard, no movement was made, the spectators turned to ice.

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 I hate seeing her with that desperate expression, I hate having to do this but it's necessary. No one from this place will stand up for us, only one can leave, I want it to be you who is too good for this place, who can reach extraordinary places. It's one step away from being accomplished... what? Shit, I interrupt the process to focus on a shield, I bite my lip in anger at the situation I put us in, it took me too long and he's standing up.

 "It seems that this worm has completely influenced you, but don't worry, death will purify you, daughter, and send this thing to hell." His calm tone was deceiving, but seeing his expression it was notable how angry the man was, damn he is focusing his power on the area we are in, I could keep the shield but he is using wind and fire.

 No, the protection falls apart, he was already preparing to attack with everything, he was too fast, I couldn't summon another shield, I failed. I throw myself on top of Mei's body in a futile attempt to at least protect her, was that the end of us? The end of it? Damn, damn, damn.

  I close my eyes and hug her tightly, if that was the end, I want to feel her one last time. I wait for the pain that never comes, but how? I lift my head and see....what? What am I seeing? Who is it? Who is this woman?

  I couldn't form any thoughts in my head, I couldn't move, just look. Just by crossing her arms she was able to protect herself and us too, incredible was little to say about the situation.

   "What's going on? Are you okay? Are we okay?". Mei looks at me looking for answers and comfort after so much stress, I wish I could say that yes, now we were sure that someone would fight for us, protect us but it seemed like a lie. "I don't know, however we have no choice but to see." I focus my attention again on the woman in front of us, she seemed to be over 5’11 feet, her long black hair cascaded down her back, her muscles were capable of putting any man in the organization to shame and her slightly tanned skin just added to her charm.

When she opens her arms a path between the attack opens and finally the two standing in the arena face each other. The surprise in the leader's eyes was understandable, Ban Jun had never seen a woman with such grandeur in his life, but his astonishment only grew greater when she turned her back and walked towards me and Mei. If from the back she was impressive from the front it was even more so, her beauty was just like those described in the legends I read in secret about the gods that our organization disinherited. 

  Eyes the color of the blue of the sky, lips the color of the most delicate flower, and an expression that could make anyone feel safe. "Hello, I'm Diana! I ask you not to worry, sisters, everything will be fine now". She touches my shoulders while saying words of comfort, I hear Mei thanking her but I can only look at her trying to understand what was said, it seemed like a lie, she touches our heads with affection and again turns to face the angry man, I finally focus my attention. pay attention to the figure on the other side of the arena, and wow I could see the veins on his face from here.

 "A foreigner, not only entered a country that is not yours but also protected sinners, you must be one of the disgusting ilk that has reappeared, heroes that are pathetic, they are just cowards living under false names that seek adoration." Heroes, I just heard about them, these super humans began to emerge around the world bringing many changes with them, when the newspapers named this phenomenon as the "Golden Age of Heroes" a statement was made by the Wu-xing council: 

 "Just like the Monkey King they came to leave a trail of destruction from their battles taking humanity hostage in the process, our mission is to protect our own, in the past we fell into the illusion that Jade Emperor would protect us, we will not make the same mistake, existence of that society of justice cannot be repeated"

"I wouldn't call myself that, nor do I seek any thanks from you, I came to the patriarchy in order to save mine and your people from an ancient threat, I stayed in this unknown land after being given an impossible mission but worth it , and to achieve this I can't let you continue to do this, we don't need to fight, just let me take them away where they can get medical help." Even in the face of the accusations, she remained calm, but even so, you could see a hint of anger when she said that there was no need for confrontation, was her indignation at our situation? What a strange person. 

   "Do you really think I will allow you to take them? Their lives belong to me and I decided to end them, now get out of the way false goddess or be killed too." When he said this, the two put themselves in a confrontational position, he in attack, she in defense. 

  "We are masters of our own lives, as Gaia declared, I believe it is useless to continue talking, this issue can only be resolved through combat"

  He had never faced an enemy who could pressure him so easily. He was going beyond his limits, the wind was causing cracks in the wall but Diana remained in the same place as if she were in a light breeze. She put her arms back and positioned herself, was she going to jump to the top? Even though she had monstrous resistance, it was impossible to hold on in the air now, she would be caught in the attack.

 "DON'T DO THIS-". Before I could finish speaking her feet left the ground but not to jump, Diana was flying just like birds, her body seemed to have been designed to overcome air resistance. It was as if heaven were her place, however as she approached the leader the wind cut her from head to toe like daggers making her blood spill onto the ground, her body made a movement as if she were going to fall.

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Both my heart and Mei's heart beat faster at that moment, she wouldn't die, right? She couldn't, as we went into despair, Jun cracked a smile but it didn't last for long.

        Composing herself, Diana grabs him by the collar and throws him down, opening a crater in the ground. It was deep and wide but it was still far from us, even though she was injured our safety was still a priority in her mind, I will never get used to it. She lands in front of us, placing her arm in front of us to protect us, not taking her eyes off the crater, with difficulty Mei touches her hand. "Are you okay? We were a little scared when he attacked you, but you got up again, it was incredible, really, but it's okay, it must have hurt, right? Yue and I are going to get bandages for you-". If I didn't put my hand over her mouth, this litany would continue for a long time, Diana looks surprised while Mei squirms uselessly

.       "You idiot, you can't even move properly and you're worried about her surpassing the strongest person here? Look at the size of her muscles, that must have been a scratch, save your energy to get out of here, OH SO DISGUSTING." I quickly remove my hand after feeling Mei's lick, I look at the culprit who responds by showing me her tongue, what a child.

        "You're really annoying, you know that? The pretty girl is helping us and got hurt and you were more worried than me, you ridiculous girl." Son of a bitch, we continued to stare at each other until we heard a laugh from the third woman, it was melodious, I would even be surprised that she laughed at that moment but this scene just now was really pathetic, Diana smiles and looks at us with that kind look as if we were important.

       "I'm happy that you're interacting like this and I thank you for your concern, sisters, I'm fine, the Goddesses are protecting me but I still need to get you out of here." She kneels down to be at our level, it was strange how protected I felt next to this woman, I couldn't even doubt her intentions. How does someone like that exist? 

      I come out of my reveries when I feel an absurd pressure, we look in the direction where the energy was coming from, the crater, that's... he- he wouldn't use it, would he? The whole place is shaking, damn that crazy old man, Diana gets up again to return to the confrontation but I step forward and take her arm if I was right it wouldn't be as simple as before.

  "We need to go! Now!". I see the doubt in her eyes, but still Diana follows what I ask, carrying us and flying to go through the hole she entered. When we got close the space was quickly covered by ice, SHIT, from behind a glacier was coming in an attempt to crush us with no other option having her hands full Diana dodged in time only to find several others that were destroying the entire place in the process, I look down seeing that the statues I made had been completely swallowed by the ice if he continues with this all of Wu-xing will die, I wouldn't be sad about that but Mei and Diana probably. Let's resolve this once and for all.

   "Diana, I know it's crazy but I need you to trust me, next time don't avoid the glacier, go towards it" . It's risky but if we want to get out of this situation I have to try. "I trust you 100% sister next time I'll be ready." 100% is it? So I better not disappoint you, well if I make a mistake we will die but that's just a detail.

   In the classes given to Wu-xing men on controlling elements, greater focus is given to destructive attacks, but in situations like this you need to have greater skill and I fully guarantee this. When Diana places me in front of the huge ice stone, I raise my hand and control its molecules, building a path that allows us to reach the middle of the arena again.

     "BY THE GODDESSES"

    "What is that?" 

    Their surprise was understandable, it is a disturbing scene. Ban Jun was levitating in the middle of the arena surrounded by energy, his body covered in veins that looked like he would explode at any moment. Voices spoke over his own and chanted incomprehensible words and in front of him was the culprit: the amulet of the honorable. 

   In the rebellion against the divine, Wu-xing was massacred with only 4 warriors remaining, knowing that it was impossible to defeat the beings of the heavens, the only option they found was to seal them out of the earth plane, preventing them from having contact with human beings. For this the strongest of the warriors, Ban Han, used a forbidden ritual and summoned the souls of the warriors killed in battle to his medallion, it worked and now with the help of the medallion he was equal to the gods. However, it was too much power for a human being to control because making use of souls was an unstable artifact, Ban Han succeeded in sealing the divine beings but died in the process, having his soul sucked out by the amulet, thus recharging the power and keeping the seal stable.

  "What's going on? Why is he like this?" Concerned, the warrior asks holding our bodies in fear that at any moment we would be attacked." Because he didn't want to be defeated, he appealed for something he was unable to control, the amulet in front of him is the source of all this power. We need to take it from him before it destroys everyone present here and himself" 

    "Do you have any ideas, sister? Approaching now seems like an invitation to meet the Queres." I don't know what the hell a Quere is but I understand her point, if we get close now we would be met with vicious attacks, we need a plan. "NoT So fAst WoRmS"

   The moment he says these words we are thrown to the ground and immobilized by the earth, with difficulty I try to move my head just to see Diana and Mei completely covered. 

                                                                     "INsOleNt wOmeN KilL aLl tHrEe"  

   "NO! OnE iS FrOm tHe ClAn!"   "FilThY dIvInE bEinGs" "I cAn'T bEliEve a BaN wAs CorRuPteD" "DEfIeD ThE paTriArCh" "JUst ShOws tHe fAthEr'S wEaKnEss"

                                                                  "KILL THEM" 

    They have taken full control of the body, but they can't come to a decision it's a battle of wills, maybe we still have a chance. Diana must have thought the same, the layer of stone that trapped her broke and like a rocket she hit the body with several minds launching it into the air. The reaction was instantaneous because the target was just one, the objective was just one, but what if there were two targets?

They attacked Diana who was having difficulty defending herself, I broke Mei's layer of stone and threw an iceberg at them which was broken before doing any damage. The attention was on me, the voices showed anger, sadness and disappointment but it gave Diana the opportunity to land a kick, when he repositioned himself I summoned two walls with the intention of crushing him.

     Seeing this, the fire was moved as a barrier around Ban Jun but it is not enough. "Minds that together possess the knowledge of ages but are still foolish enough to underestimate an opponent, know that an ember does not protect you from frost." Overcoming the barrier of flames, I crushed the body, giving Diana space to pass through the ice, hitting the enemy with three punches.

   This time there is no counterattack, Ban Jun remains lying on the ground and the amulet is no longer activated, do we win? I look back to where Diana helps Mei, I take a deep breath and walk towards the defeated leader, my heart pounds, whether it's from relief or fear I don't know but I need to get that amulet.

   The closer I get the louder my heart beats as if it were going to come out of my chest. Taking that amulet would be confirmation that it was over, Mei and I would leave, I thought I would die here inside this place. I have always been a step made for others to climb, can I get up? Achieving something not for others but for myself? I touch my fingers to the amulet and-

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                                                            "TRAITOR"           "INSOLENT WOMAN"        "DIE YOU USELESS WOMAN"    
                                                  "A WOMAN WHO DOESN'T KNOW HER PLACE"               "DIE YOU BITCH" 

           Huge hands hold my neck, taking away my air and burning my skin, I bite my lips madly, I could die but I won't give them the pleasure of seeing me scream. But the pain stops, am I on the ground? Tears fall from my face, I can't know what was happening but words reach my ears.

   "How dare you??? How can you treat her like this? How can you treat anyone like this? Her life has value! Not even if you were a God would you have the right to say and do such evil things" 

          Diana? With difficulty I look up only to see the warrior holding Ban Jun's body by the neck, she was being attacked by him but her grip did not weaken, her sweet and melodious voice conveyed hatred. 

                                                           "FILTHY WOMAN"  "THIS IS WHAT YOU DESERVE-"

  "With each passing day I understand more why Lord Ares gave me that mission, there will be no justice for women, not today, not 100 years ago, that's why I will continue to fight, that's why I will endure this pain to save at least a little my sisters of the patriarchy" 

         She takes the amulet and throws it to the other side of the arena, causing the ancestors to leave Ban Jun's body and he now falls to the ground with no chance of returning. She turned to me, her face now had burns and cuts but even so her beauty remained mesmerizing, not a word was said as Diana helped me up and in an unexpected movement hugged me.

   "Thank you for holding on until I arrived, thank you for fighting for what you thought was right, you honor the goddesses of Themyscira, sister!" 

          I think I'm the one who should be thanking her, she was the one who fought for two strangers but now I'm curious. "What is Themys-?"  

    "YUE! DIANA! ARE YOU ALL OK???". Mei... She's fine... I thought this would be the end of us, I can't even bother with the unnecessary shouting. I smile at the girl on the other side of the arena who, when she sees me, gives me a smile that rivals the sun and to think that when I first saw her she was close to death. I come out of my reveries with a touch on the waist and look up seeing eyes the color of the sky.

    "Come on, I'll take you to a safe place." After that I couldn't even ask anything, tiredness finally reached my body, while Diana took Mei and me out, I lost consciousness as I saw for the last time the prison in which I was born.

      What? Where? Bed...I'm in a bed but it's not mine, this one is much more comfortable, I slowly open my eyes as recent events (or not) pass through my head. I quickly get up to see if it was really real, I look at that simple and beautiful room trying to find proof that it wasn't an illusion, Diana and Mei, where are they? 

     I need to find them, when I moved to get out of bed I heard something fall to the floor. I look in the direction of the noise and see a blonde woman who appeared to be elderly, was she the owner of the house? Was she Diana's friend? Ahhh I don't understand anything, I need to ask. 

    I said this, but before any sound came out of my mouth she was already holding my hands. "I'm relieved to see you awake! Diana and Mei will be extremely happy when they find out." She didn't seem to want to hurt me and mentioned those two, it was what I needed, that all happened, we're fine. I lower my head as I touch my face, this action must have worried the lady who touched my shoulders almost instantly. 

    "Is everything okay, sweetheart?" 

    "Yeah, it's just a lot to digest." Mei was alive, we defeated Ban Jun and left Wu-xing it's as if I had died and gone to heaven. I want to smile but the shock is too great. "Diana explained the situation to me, know that you can stay as long as you need, if you need a job I can find one at the college where I work." This is the second foreign woman who has shown so much sympathy, I'm not used to it. 

    "I appreciate the offer and your kindness in allowing us to stay here but I don't want to abuse it any further." Those English classes are being very useful now, Diana spoke Mandarin so well that it's even strange having to change the language like that. 

    "Mei told me you were stubborn but I didn't imagine it would be like that." I look up and see Diana together with a girl with an ugly look on her face (how irritating) but wow, it was impressive how beautiful she was with whatever clothes she wore, instead of the tights with gold details, she was now in casual clothes. I smile when I see her body with few injuries and even though it's stupid I feel relief that she's real (no one needs to know).

     "Mei talks too much, I'm happy to see you but where is she-". Before I could finish speaking something comes towards me knocking me onto the bed while getting on top of me. "YUEEEEE YOU ARE ALIVE." Mei hugged me while crying I held her back while I circled her back, she's fine I can still feel her, I can still hear her voice, what a relief. "We're idiot, are you okay? How have you been spending your days? Have I been sleeping for a long time?" She lifts her head but nothing understandable comes out of her mouth, wow I hold her face and Diana gives her a comforting touch on her shoulders. 

      "It's been three days since we left there and you lost consciousness, we were worried about you Mei especially, she doesn't know much English but thanks to Julia life hasn't been difficult and she's gotten used to the crutches."

     "WHAT? CRUTCHES?" I look back at Mei now noticing the missing part of her body, her leg.  "It's not bad y-you know? I-I'm alive, I have you and I've met more people." She says that, but why did she have to lose her leg? What right did that man have to take something from her? If I were stronger maybe- 

        "OH STOP IT!" 

        "VANESSA!"

    "But mom, she's being stupid and the room is cold." Julia slaps her hand over her face while Vanessa continues to speak her mind, I admire the audacity but what a brat. "I didn't really understand what happened, but you and Diana defeated the boss, right? Now it's time to enjoy it and not get caught up in what already happened!" 

     "Don't be disrespectful! I'm sorry Ban Yue, my daughter speaks without thinking but she means well."

   She corrects her daughter but without hurting her, Julia is impressive. "No need, she's a little rude but she has a point, there's no point in getting angry, I'm sorry and I thank you all, I just have one question for you Diana." She takes her hand off Mei's shoulder and kneels in front of me showing that she was ready to listen. 

        "I appreciate what you did, but it was unreal and I'm not talking about your strength and agility, why did you stop? Because you helped us? You went through unimaginable danger for women you don't even know, no one does that, sorry if I sound rude but who are you exactly?". She was surprised by the question, but to my relief, not offended, her expression changed to sadness? But she smiled. 

    "I understand your doubt and I think you deserve an explanation, I'm not from the patriarchy, I lived my whole life with the Amazons, warrior women created by the Goddesses whose mission was to end violence, but the gods and the world did not accept them and in order to prosper they went to an island, Themyscira, where they acquired immortality and developed. My mother, Queen Hippolyta, had the desire for a child and molded me from clay and from this Hera and other goddesses gave me life and blessings."  Everything she said seemed like a lie and if I hadn't seen her fighting I wouldn't have believed it, Diana had a smile on her face when she told the story, she looked like a child, the animation was so genuine.

    "I grew up being looked after by several mothers, I never had to worry about anything, there were some disagreements but nothing that couldn't be resolved through conversation, my people didn't believe in differences, we could have different positions but we were equal, a community." Of all the things said, this was the most unbelievable, the word equality had always been a bad joke in my eyes, but listening to Diana it was as if it had a meaning that I never knew before.

  "Why did you leave?" I had to ask her, her home looks like a paradise, a bubble where there is no harm, why would she want to leave? I don't understand. Standing up, Diana puffs out her cheeks as she looks at me and with a movement raises her fists to the side as if she were going to say incredible information.

  "The god of war wanted to bring destruction to the entire world so to save my people and the patriarchy I fought to become the champion that would be chosen for this mission. I love my people, my mother and my sisters are the most important people in my life, but I wanted a purpose, to be more than I was to prove to myself that I wasn't just the princess." 

   "I was successful but another mission was given to me by Ares himself, that of teaching men the path of peace so that they can save themselves from themselves, it seems impossible and perhaps I'm not up to it but seeing your situation and so many others I see the how necessary it is so I will make it my purpose". Enlightened people exist and they scare me, I can't say anything negative about it just by shaking my head. 

    "That's incredible, isn't it?" Mei holds Diana's hand and mine as she smiles with puffy eyes. "We're all going to do incredible things, and best of all, TOGETHER! Nothing will go wrong!" Diana, Julia and Vanessa smile at the statement, but are they? Well I hope so.

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 1 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓:

𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙙𝙙𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣, 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙬𝙤, 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙡𝙡, 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙡𝙚𝙛𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙤𝙣 𝙘𝙧𝙪𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙧𝙥𝙨𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙡𝙚𝙜. 𝘼 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝, 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙨𝙩, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚. 

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙧𝙪𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙨. 𝙉𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙨, 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨. 𝙊𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙚, 𝘾𝙡𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙤, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙇𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙨, 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙝, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘼𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙤𝙨, 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙘𝙪𝙩𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙮, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙞𝙧𝙖𝙨,  𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙙𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙚𝙚𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙟𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜.

 𝙔𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧:

"WHAT DID YOU SAY OFFICER?" Injustice caused by people who should fight for you causes this: anger. 

"Sir ■■■■ I ask that you remain calm or we will not be forced to use force." Even from afar I can hear guns being pointed at someone who is not a threat but who committed the crime of not lowering their head. 

 "My name is Layla, and how can I stay calm after what you and your team said? WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM?" She approaches making the mistake of expecting human behavior from people who think they are superior because they have power. A shot comes out but doesn't reach the target, my reflexes were faster causing the bullet to be deflected by my bracelets. 

I swore to use this to protect the innocent from threats, but they should not come from the side of justice. Few have their hearts in the right place.... take a deep breath Diana, you have work to do. "Hello everyone, I came to provide my assistance but seeing what happened perhaps it would be better for me and my organization to take over from here." I look at the person in charge, my expression must have conveyed what I feel as he hesitated for a moment. 

 "Put down your weapons and leave." That sounded very aggressive and if they find it offensive things could get complicated, forcing a smile I say calmly.

 "Please". It had a good effect seeing that everyone listened, they gave threatening looks but left without fuss, that's rare. 

 "Are you okay sister?" Other women were around Layla trying to comfort her, I approach and put my hand on her face which is welcomed. "You know, Diana, I thought I'd gotten used to being treated like that, being in the business I'm in, being what I am, but I still feel scared and angry, I feel stupid."

  Layla is the owner of a brothel, the work offered is not to my liking but in the patriarchy system it is understandable, it is a chance for survival that deserves respect. I met her before the transition (I was happy to welcome her as a sister), her work consisted of welcoming homeless women and offering them a place as staff or employees. 

    Thanks to Layla, many lives were saved but society is cruel. "You have the right to feel this way, never think otherwise, tell me what happened." When I said these words, several voices spoke at the same time, I understood some parts: 

   "They took Eliza!"   "They didn't do anything great" "They were transphobic towards the boss" "Filthy pigs!!!!" 

    With the confusion out of control, Layla takes control while still holding my hand. "Girls, thank you for your support but let me take it from here, go in and calm down." They don't like having to leave but they respect order anyway, I wave as they go. 

     "Thanks again Diana, I don't even want to think what would happen if you hadn't shown up". Her face is still pale, I don't speak but I also don't want to imagine Layla being taken to the kingdom of Hades by the Queres. When the time comes, I hope in a peaceful way with Thanatos leading. 

      “This is not something worthy of thanks, please tell me the situation.”
 
      "Of course, as you know brothels have been under attack with girls forcibly kidnapped."  Yes, a few weeks ago these kidnappings started to occur but no one bothered to report it and the police showed indifference to the case.

      So it was up to my organization to take care of things but when it came to their attention several cases had already occurred and I to improve, I came later, I was not able to see or stop the kidnappers but I am here now I must act and try to bring the hostages back .

      "I am aware of this fact but I didn't think that the police would show up and intend to help since I am also trying to solve the case. However, Athena was not merciful and that situation happened." 

     "I was also surprised when they showed up but I would have preferred if they hadn't bothered, they disrespected us from start to finish, they called me by my dead name and......". I take her in my arms and tell her to take her time, I don't like seeing her like this. Layla breaks the hug, breathes and continues her story.

    "When they saw the crime scene, they blamed the girls. They said they should have asked for it, they even made fun of the corpse and wanted to know if she could still do her job." So that's why Layla lost her mind, what disgusting people still felt entitled to demand calm. No matter how long I'm here this type of behavior is something I'll never get used to and...wait corpse?

Chapter Text

 "Did someone die?" The kidnappings were already a worrying thing, we had an urgency to resolve the situation, now they started murdering? By the Gods. "Yes, imagine our surprise and horror when we woke up and found that, I almost didn't recognize the girl she... shit...come."

Layla guides me into the establishment by the hand, my heart beat faster, this situation is not strange and when I arrive I understand why, a burned body, unrecognizable, Mei. 

 "Did you say something?" I look at Layla but it takes me a few minutes to reorganize my thoughts and have the strength to respond. "I'm really sorry sister, I just remembered something similar." I kneel in front of the body and ask that Melinoe, the goddess of ghosts, can protect her in the afterlife when I failed. 

 "The organization will take care of the autopsy and preparations for the passing of our fallen sister and I will discover those responsible for this cruelty." I couldn't do anything last time, but now I can. 

  "You're the only one who cares, thank you for everything" 

  "I use the nickname Wonder Woman to help others, it's my duty, you don't need to thank-" 

  "Diana? Are you busy right now?" A voice sounds from my communicator, one of my favorites but perhaps it wasn't the best time, I ask Layla's permission and answer my little star. "Donna, hi! Did something happen?" I already have a little idea why she's calling me, I look at the clock to see if I'm late but I'm not. 

  "I just wanted to know if you're going to be too busy in the afternoon." I smile without thinking, no matter how much she has grown, surprisingly my little sister still managed to be very cute, she must be nervous for the event meeting her, she must want everything to be perfect for her return as a photographer. "Am I such a bad big sister to make you think I forgot about the fashion event? Don't worry, I'll be at the front desk watching you."

  "Thank you, but please don't, I'll be even more nervous." I laugh at the quick response and tease her a little. "Afraid I'll tell your friends you messed up?" I hear a laugh in response, it seems like she has calmed down a little and I'm happy. 

   "I'm afraid you'll see that I messed up and if you know, our general mother is also going, but now I'm going, kiss." I say goodbye too, it's funny how talking to Donna makes me feel lighter but I need to focus on the situation now. 

   "To have that smile you were totally talking to one of your sisters." A voice I would recognize from miles away with unique animation could only come from Etta Candy. When I met her she was in the US Army and didn't really like me, now a trusted supervisor on one of the organization's teams and a dear friend. 
 
       "It's great to see you Etta, I was talking to Donna, she will be participating as a photographer in a parade." 

       "Oh the charity fashion show is going to be a big event, I heard there are models from all over the country."

        "Yes, I'm excited to support my sister, but with this situation-". 

       "NO WAY!" My eyes widen at the unexpected scream, not just me but Layla and the girls too. While Etta's team acts like it's just routine. 

       "You've been working like crazy these days and you're still going, take advantage of this to breathe a little! Come on in, woman!" These last few months have been turbulent but I don't feel good going out like this, taking advantage of this moment of pain for these women.

       "I know but I'm not sure-" 

        "NOOOO, we have everything under control if something happens you will be the first to know now bye! Take photos!" She was guiding me through the door and I didn't have the courage to contradict her, because of work I ended up not paying as much attention to those around me, if I had done that maybe Vanessa... NO! I can't be stuck with this, I'm going to save her.

     "It'll work, you're skilled Donna." We were in the limousine heading to the event, (I would rather fly to be honest) Donna now had a worried look on her face. 

     "I joke, but there are things you don't unlearn even if you try, my camera skills are not something I'm insecure about." I don't doubt her words in everything Donna does she has always aimed for perfection, a perfectionist just like our mother, General Philipus. "So what haunts your mind?"

"After months on mission I will be able to return behind the camera, I love being Troia but I feel that more and more I can't do simple things like that anymore and I'm scared that something will happen because of who we are and that it will ruin the important day of others who are as excited as I am." Because we lead the life we ​​lead, we end up not having much time for ourselves apart from all that chaos, your concern is understandable. 

       "Your concern is valid and I can't say anything to you since I don't have the gifts of the Moiras, but if nothing happens, wear your Wonder Girl uniform for a week." She looks at me and raises her eyebrow and with a smile I just say. "I like it when we combine"

     We were approaching the finish, holding my hand she says with a smile. "Since we're betting if something happens one night of video games with me." Oh no, she notices my displeasure and laughs, How can she be the first follower of Momo, the god of nonsense. 

     "Oh come on it'll be fun." She pats my shoulder but I can't believe that statement.

     "You only insist because you always win." Even if I try this, it's something I don't have any skills in, why fight on a screen instead of in real life? 

     "Obviously". This brat, I look to the side and we were next so I let it go. "This is where I get off, I'll meet you inside?" 

    "I should ask, they're going all out on you, are you going to be okay?" I wanted to say yes, but with them you never know, I just smile and kiss her on the cheek.

    The moment I step outside I am greeted by thousands of camera flashes, before this kind of attention scared me, such appreciation as if I were someone extremely special since it wasn't something I had on Themyscira where I was loved but it was normal. Today I can walk more confidently and I can smile, but I still can't handle it as much as I would like with how invasive they can be. As I walked, I heard the questions:

    "With Hippolyta dead, who is the Island's new queen?"  

    "Is it true that you had a connection with the villainous silver swan?" 

     "This morning you were seen in a brothel, are you in favor of prostitution?" 

     "A petition has been made for you to return to Themyscyra how do you feel?"

Chapter Text

  Questions with the intention of hurting, some succeed but I don't let it show. I follow what Myndi Mayer once told me (may the Elysian fields have her):



     "Like vultures they will try to get something out of you dear, they turned innocent situations into scandalous ones, they used your worst moments with the intention of hurting you. They want to see you angry, uncomfortable, their intention is to destabilize you, to protect yourself you have to do the opposite, show that you are fine even if you are not, they will talk anyway but they will not be able to say that you are crazy or fragile".

 
  

  I smile and wave, I get into the parade and only when I sit down can I breathe again. Unfortunately my mind doesn't rest, the only thing that goes through my mind are my mother's last moments, I didn't think they would ask about her. If I had Cronos' gifts I would do so many things differently, I can't hold on to the past, but at times I miss the relationships I had and feel consumed by guilt, after all they ended up that way because of my mistakes.


  "AND NOW THE PARADE BEGINS, ALL MONEY RAISED WILL BE DONATED TO THE WONDER WOMAN ORGANIZATION THAT HELPS MANY PEOPLE!" I get out of my head when the host starts talking before opening the show.


  "SPEAKING OF HER IT'S AN HONOR TO HAVE YOU HERE DIANA!" I smile and sit down and bow to show gratitude for the compliment, the audience applauds and I wave to them.


  This event is something that celebrates all cultures, so models from all countries appeared and as the organization operates around the world, it was decided by the planners that all money raised will be donated.


As the models pass by, I try to find Donna among the photographers, which is not difficult, her bright smile makes her stand out in the crowd. It's strange to see how much she's grown, that this incredible young woman is the same little girl, who was behind me, she's been through so much but never went down a bad path, I'm very proud of her.


  "Next is a newcomer who has never walked the runway before." I hear the comments of people close to me, and I look at the stage the first time something can be scary, I hope the gods give strength to this sister and that everything works out.


I focus my attention on the woman who now has everyone's attention, it was as if time stopped and the only thing that existed were her black eyes that, thanks to Orpheus, kept me awake on so many nights Great...Hera, it was really Ban Yue in front of me. I blinked to see if it was true and if it would disappear but it didn't Yue hasn't changed at all, she's as beautiful as she was years ago, I wish I could fly there and hug her and ask her where she's been.


So close but still so far, does she resent me? The good moments seem insignificant with the ending we had but I still keep her in my heart. I'm happy to see her moving on with her life, having left everything that hurt her behind. As I think about how amazing she is, my worst moments flash through my mind, I must follow Ban Yue's example, overcome it and use it to be better.


May Hera guide me and give me strength, I must pray to my goddess when I get the chance. A pop is made in front of my face, startling me, I look forward and see Donna. "You've been doing this a lot lately, is everything okay?" I smile awkwardly because my sloppiness is noticeable, should I tell Donna? Well, I have nothing to lose.


   "Thank you for your concern sister, I saw someone I knew a long time ago parading, she was a dear friend and I was happy to see her achieve something so incredible." As she said this, Donna opened her eyes wide, opened and closed her mouth simultaneously until she spoke excitedly.

 
   "This is incredible! Who is it? I took photos of all the best models from Brazil and China, I think I outdid myself today but coming back, which one is it?" I laughed fondly at Donna's actions, she needed that, I'm happy to see how fulfilled it makes her.


   "It's China's but our friendship came to a delicate end, I don't know what reaction she will have if I try to talk." Donna quickly closes her face and thinks before speaking again.


   "Is she an ex of yours? Well, seeing your history, it's not really recommended to talk to her." What? Blessed be Aphrodite, what does she know about my love life???

 
   "No! She wasn't my girlfriend and what kind of background is this Donna Troy?" She seems to realize what she said and looks to the side with a small smile on her face. "Mom kind of mentioned how you broke a lot of hearts and how it seemed like Aphrodite didn't give you a chance on the even issue." I should have known, I wanted her to understand that not everyone finds a perfect match, Hippolyta and Philipus were mothers who always showed their love for each other and who always affirmed to me and Donna how important it was to have someone who values ​​and respects you.


   "Is your track record better, little sister?" I touch her cheek and laugh at her reaction, she pouted in indignation. "This isn't about me! Let's go back, since she's nothing like that, I think you should talk to her." I hug her back and ignore the change of subject.


   "Even if I wanted to, how would I find her again?" 



   "All the models will be at the after party to communicate with scouts, I bet she will be there, do you want to try?" It won't be like before, but it's a chance to redeem myself even if I get a no, I must take the risk, I take Donna's hand and we go to the party.