A/N: Thank you for the continuing support and all the reviews! Again, this is un-beta read so if you notice any horrible grammar/spelling mistakes that I've missed, please point them out...

So, we're finding out more and more about the Magic World in the manga. Depending on what's revealed in the coming weeks, it might be unfeasible for the crow demons to live in the Magic World and journey to Mahora. If such is the case, just consider this story slightly AU please.

Disclaimer: I don't own Negima.


Illumine

…..Chapter 4…..


Someone, at some point, had handed her the sheath to Yuunagi, and now she clutched the blade in both hands. She had held Yuunagi before, never for long—Setsuna would never let her hold it for long—but it had always felt heavy and foreign. She was surprised then at how natural it felt in her hands. What did weigh her down were the pactio cards in her pocket—the original and Setsuna's copy.

She knew it would be futile as fast as she had seen the crows move earlier, but, gripping the original pactio card, she had tried to summon Setsuna. Distantly, she had felt the point of magic that was Setsuna. She had strained, and pulled. She had it, and it slipped, and then it was gone. Her girlfriend was much too far for summoning, even if she could stretch the summon ability farther than other pactios. And now, Setsuna's copy of the pactio was just another reminder of her failure.

Mana's hawk-like vision, so tuned to picking out details, picking out the optimal place for a bullet, spotted it half buried underneath the slick leaves of the forest. The slim-card held Setsuna's proud visage, similar to what it first looked like years ago, but the features had evolved with age and the costume had since changed quite a number of times. Konoka had studied the card for but a moment, catching the cutting eyes, the confident stance, the edge of Takemikazuchi, and the inherent power that was from them both. Then she slipped the card into her pocket, and she knew what she had to do.

"Chachamaru," she said, oddly calm now that she knew a way to buy them time, "I need to use Eva-chan's resort."

The robot nodded, "Of course. Your reasoning is sound. If she grows angry, I will placate her."

"Thank you," Konoka said softly. Then she quickly took off, running through the trees and back to the path with no mind to her friends. One hour. She could spare one hour and gain twenty-four to figure out her plans. She hated that one hour—it was one hour that Setsuna got farther away from her—but she knew she needed to think, to plan how she was going to get her girlfriend back. She didn't realize the others were following her until she got to the steps of Evangeline's cabin. She hesitated, even though she knew she shouldn't be surprised. "You guys…"

"Oh come on Konoka! Like we're going to let you run off and save Setsuna all on your own." Asuna said clapping her on the shoulder as she passed, heading straight inside.

Konoka quickly followed into the main room of Evangeline's home, relieved and just a little bit more reassured. She was not going to sit back and let them do all the work though. No matter how much she messed up earlier, she wasn't an untrained, unaware child anymore. She couldn't just sit back and let others bloody themselves for her and her cause. No matter what it takes, no matter what I have to give of myself, I will not let my friends get hurt and I will save Setsuna. Focus. Get to the resort—then you can think.

Konoka was jarred by Mana brushing by her. "This use of time and services out of my life are free…until I decide whether or not to come, but if I do come I'm quintupling the charge because Setsuna is doing her best to annoy me today," the mercenary said. She hesitated just enough for Konoka to know that those words meant nothing. Mana was going to come, and probably just charge her standard rate for it even.

"This one thinks you should quit playing games already de gozaru," Kaede said as they reached the model that was Evangeline's resort. Waiting for everyone to file into the room, Konoka had a second to watch amazed as the ninja leveled a rare, clear gaze at Mana. "You've already made up your mind."

"Shows what you know Kaede," Mana smirked. The glimpse she provided of the revolver tucked into her jeans matched the challenge in her eyes.

"We can talk about it inside de gozaru," Kaede said politely as Ku Fei brought up the rear. The small room was rather congested with the number of bodies taking space.

"Ready?" Konoka said simply. She could breathe once they got there—once she had twenty-four hours.

"I will remain here to explain to my master what has occurred," Chachamaru said from near the doorway. "I will be ready to accompany you at a moment's notice Konoka-san."

"Thank you, Chachamaru!" Konoka said gratefully. That worry behind her, she turned and reached out, initializing the jump to Evangeline's resort. The transition was smooth, like sinking into water. A mere blink and they were all there.

And Konoka breathed. But she didn't hear the gentle sound of the nameless sea lapping against stone and sand. She didn't register the clear night skies or the too perfect temperatures. She didn't feel the breeze tugging at her clothes. Konoka breathed, but she didn't relax. She wouldn't relax until Setsuna was back where she belonged. At my side.


"So we know they're pissed at Setsuna because they think that when she showed her wings back in the Magic World it's screwed them over today. Still the stupidest thing I've ever heard, but what do we know about them? Where would they be? How strong are they?" Asuna asked.

Konoka opened her mouth and then thought better of it. What did she know about the crow demons? Nothing aside from the encounter yesterday. Setsuna rarely mentioned her wings, much less gave ethnographic details on the beings that provided such genes. And Konoka had never thought to ask, especially when it had always been such a touchy subject. I should know these things. If it's about Setsuna, I should know it. But I need to respect her privacy too. She's already given me so much of herself, she should be able to keep what she wants too. This is important though…

She was thinking in circles—a complete waste of time. A full twenty-four hours was more than one, but it still wasn't all that much when she needed time to plan a rescue mission and recover her own state of mind. Exhaustion hit as soon as her adrenaline disappeared. It didn't help that she was sitting on a veranda, reclining on a soft cushion in perfect weather, and her body just wanted to be still. It was dark too, fake stars glittering in the sky to correspond with the world outside the resort. It was a late hour in real time, and between her birthday, crow demons, and Setsuna, it had been a long day.

A very long day…but plan this out! Figure out what to do and then take a rest with whatever time is remaining. Once she caught herself, recovered that determination, that image of Setsuna in her mind, it was much easier to pay attention.

Asuna was sitting up ramrod straight, her eyes searching her companions in the lamplight provided by the resort. Not finding an answer, her shoulders slumped in defeat. "Does no one know anything?"

"Setsuna's never talked about them outside of her wings. I've never learned about them either," Negi said. He was looking intensely toward the ground. Konoka could easily recognize that he was trying to hide his frustration and anger at the whole situation. "I don't believe any of us have ever been in a position to know about the crow demons. Except…Chamo?"

"Nope. Sorry, it's not my area of expertise," the ermine answered distantly. He stroked his whiskers with a tiny paw, looking distracted.

Konoka was beginning to regret her decision to run off to Evangeline's resort. What could they plan if they didn't even know where to start looking? She should have grabbed Chisame and had her use her artifact to gather information no matter how much the other girl may have grumbled. Or made sure Evangeline was here. She knew all sorts of things and probably would have been able to tell them something. Konoka's only option now was to wait and hope Evangeline would show up after awhile, and be willing to share information…

"They have a sizeable settlement in the Magic World. Last I heard, the nearest city to their village was Tharsis," Mana said. She was casually cleaning one of her guns and sitting on the parapet that was the only thing that separated them from a drop into the sea.

Konoka's head popped up. That was as good of a start as any, and it seemed to get everyone else thinking too.

"Would they have been able to use the gateport legally?" Yue asked thoughtfully.

"Most likely. If they produced the right documents, and though I hate to say…what they've done is not illegal under the law of the Magic World," Chamo said. "Setsuna is part of their clan by blood even if she is exiled. They're completely in their rights to take her if they want. It's all very complicated provisional laws for the various tribes and groups…just know they're pretty much autonomous."

"Maybe someone should change those laws then," Asuna growled. She crossed her arms indignantly.

"You got a lot to learn about politics ane-san," Chamo said.

"I'm going to the Magic World," Konoka said before Asuna could fire something back. "I'll get to Tharsis and I'll find my way to the village—"

"And we'll come too!" Haruna announced. She stood, one foot propped up on a nearby table, hands fiercely planted on her hips, and a wide smirk spread across her face. Her mini-skirt did little to hide much of anything with her stance, but Yue and Nodoka were quick to remedy that. Haruna was brought to the ground with what essentially qualified as a flying kick.

"You're panties were showing," Yue droned.

"This is no time to be worrying about panties!" Haruna said dazedly, glasses and hair askew.

"I think everyone here has seen each other's panties by this point aru," Ku Fei said. "But it's time for an adventure again! Off to the Magic World!"

"Just a moment Ku. Even if we do have an idea of where to go," Kaede said while distinctly eyeing Mana, "we can't just go rushing in. We have to consider the possibilities of what we might be facing. Anything that can take on Setsuna is not going to be easy to deal with de gozaru."

"Anything that ignores threats from Evangeline isn't something that can be dealt with lightly either," Negi added.

Kotarou smirked, rising to the challenge. "How about threats from any of us?"

At any other time Konoka would have gotten sucked into the typical banter and behavior of her friends, but she was much too worried. And with the little bit of information she had obtained, her mind was already racing through rescue scenarios. Take the new gateport at Osaka. Avoid trouble in the Magic World. Travel to Tharsis. Find someway to get to the crow demon's village. Get Setsuna back no matter what you have to do.

"Konoka." Asuna was beside her, speaking softly over the mayhem of the rest of their friends. "What are you thinking?"

Konoka stared back at her roommate and wondered why Asuna was asking such an obvious question. "That I'm going to save Setsuna."

"I never thought I would have to give you of all people this lecture...Remember Negi and his search for his father, and how he was convinced he had to do everything alone? You have people that want to help. People that want to save Setsuna too. You guys are my closest friends for god's sake! I want to save her and your happiness. I may not be the most powerful mage in the world…" She gave Konoka a very pointed look and then grinned. "But I have my talents. I'm a princess too after all. Do you want me to go over the capabilities of everyone else? 'Cause you know I will, it just might take a bit of time this group."

Konoka bit her bottom lip. "I know," she said after a moment, keeping her voice low. "Asuna…I may be a powerful mage, but...Setsuna has given her everything to protect me since she was a child. Everything. I need to do the same, and I failed when I was given the opportunity. The Kansai and the Kanto…proving my magic for that doesn't matter, but…for her. For Setsuna, everything matters. I need to show her that I'm willing to go as far as she is for me."

"She knows how much you love her. You don't have to prove it..." Asuna said seriously, and then she grinned. "She's not the same oblivious middle school girl she once was."

Konoka couldn't help the smile that came with those words. Setsuna certainly wasn't the same girl. "I know. And I'm not the same girl either, which is why I will save her…" She trailed off, thinking. I made a promise after Tsukuyomi, and I will keep it no matter what. But Asuna has been right all along, I don't have to do this alone. I know that. I've always known that.

"Konoka—" Asuna began.

"But you'll be there too," Konoka interrupted her.

Asuna blinked and then smiled. "That's more like it."

Konoka stood up, her whole being filled with purpose and commanding attention. The chaos caused by her friends vanished completely, and now still, they looked at her attentive and expectant.

"As soon as the time is up here, I'm rushing straight to my room to get necessities. If you want to come with me—"

"Hell yeah we do!" Kotarou said with a feral gleam in his eyes. Cheers from most of her friends followed.

Konoka smiled softly. "Then meet me at the World Tree thirty minutes after we get back. From there…we'll have to get to the new gateport at Osaka as quickly as possible. Once we're in the Magic World, we stay low. We avoid drawing attention and hope the fact that we're older will prevent people from recognizing us easily. If that's not enough, we can use disguises like last time. We get to Tharsis as quickly as possible and once there, we figure out a way to the demons' village. I can't say what kind of complications or difficulties might occur, but I'm going at this with my all. I'm sure you have an idea of how important Setsuna is to me…"

"Setsuna is important to all of us," Nodoka said with conviction.

She looked surprised that she had spoken, but Konoka wasn't. If there was anything that she had learned about Nodoka over the years, it was that she was surprisingly candid when it came to her feelings—when those feelings were not romantic anyway.

"We've always managed in the past. It'll work out," Yue said. She turned a kind gaze onto Konoka who could not help but feel reassured, and then continued. "The question remains, is there anything specific we can prepare for now?"

"Maybe we should bring along a few other people just in case aru." Ku Fei stroked her chin and looked to be deep in thought. Others latched onto her idea.

Haruna grinned wickedly. "Chiu-chan!"

"You're more than welcome to be the one to drag her along then," Yue said.

"Nah, we can do it together. Peer pressure you know?" Haruna answered. "She'll secretly want to come anyway. Nodoka can join us, and if she puts up a little resistance, we'll just give her an excuse. I'm sure there's a secret in there that we don't know yet."

"Haruna, y-you know I don't like to use my artifact on friends," Nodoka said.

"Situation calls for it. Soldier up Nodoka!" Haruna called, pounding the quiet girl on the back.

"Kazumi and Sayo-chan might be useful too, and you know they'll be willing to come."

"Don't forget Chachamaru if Evangeline is feeling generous."

"What about the Sports Club girls?"

"Hakase! And Natsumi!"

"This isn't a field trip!" Asuna yelled, jumping to her feet to gather attention. She was momentarily surprised when everyone actually shut up.

"Thanks Asuna," Konoka said softly in silence. Then she spoke more loudly, meeting each of her companions' eyes in an effort to include them. "We might already have too many people coming as is. I want this to be as fast and as conflict free as possible. I want to avoid fighting, but after seeing what the demons are willing to do, I know that might be hard to accomplish. Setsuna…Setsuna would only think it was pragmatic to bring fighters along, and she would also see the advantage of including people with more creative talents. I see the advantages, but…"

"Let's just say whoever is at the Tree after thirty minutes is going. If need be, people can wait at Tharsis or another location," Negi said thoughtfully.

Konoka immediately recognized this as the best solution and nodded. Her class held many talented people with all the manner of pactios. What if one of them was useful? Do not go there! Don't start to think of your friends as tools! The only drawback would be their ability to avoid attention. Her class always attracted attention.

"This one agrees. The question remains though, how will we get to the gateport at Osaka?" Kaede said.

"At least there is a gateport at Osaka now," Chamo added. "Can't remember the last time they even considered making a new one, but you have yourselves to thank for that."

Chamo's words were true. The new gate to Mundus Magicus was only established after their time there in part because of Asuna and in part because of herself. Asuna, or more correctly in this regard, The Twilight Imperial Princess Asuna Vesperina Theotanasia Entheofushia, may have been allowed to go back to her life at Mahora after all was said and done, but the government wanted as easy access as possible to her if needed for good or for ill. Konoka was also aware of the other political reasons. The Kanto and the Kansai were not going to be separated for all that much longer, and, as much as she often tried to ignore this fact, she knew she would be the one sitting at the head of the table of one of the most powerful magical groups of this world. Powerful enough to make officials sweat in the Magic World. They wanted easy access to her too, and right outside of Osaka was the most convenient place to set up the new gateport.

"Magic," Negi answered Kaede. "I have a couple of ideas in mind that could get us there quickly. And I think I have enough time here to try them out too."

Negi's always thinking, always planning on how to use his magic in different ways. Why can't I be more innovative like that?

It took Konoka a minute to realize that everyone was silent and staring at her. They expect me to lead…She cleared her throat and self-consciously tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "If no one else has any questions, how about we rest for now? It's late in real time."

There were nods and murmurs of agreements, and just like that Konoka felt the adrenaline leave her body once again. She was exhausted. She settled back into the cushions as her friends rustled and jostled around her. She could move to where Evangeline actually kept beds like it looked as if most of her friends were doing, but the thought of having to get up and move was not that appealing—not when her limbs felt like they were laden with lead and the cushions were as comfortable as they were. More than that even, she could stare up into the dark abyss of night, and looking into sky like this made her think of flying, white wings and Setsuna.

"Hey Konoka, you don't want to move inside?" Asuna said somewhere to her right.

She didn't move her gaze from the night sky. If she kept looking upwards, even in this made up world, she could almost imagine being close to heavens once again, held securely in arms, safe and free from the world around her. Set-chan…She reached for that image, hearing the beating of wings, and seeing a soft smile that was reserved only for her.

"Konoka?"

The image flitted, threatening to disappear, but Asuna sounded worried so she provided her roommate with the simplest of answers. "No."

"Okay."

There was rustling beside her, and then a flop that was accompanied by a groan. The phantom of Setsuna vanished, leaving Konoka with emptiness. But the complete void only lasted for a moment, because Asuna spoke, pushing in a drop of life and hope into that emptiness.

"You know, Setsuna may be an idiot about certain things, but she's a survivor and I guarantee that she knows right here"—there was a light thump that Konoka guessed was Asuna pounding against her heart—"that we're coming after her. She knows you're doing everything you can to get her back. Besides…Ayaka told me she interrupted some business earlier. It's not like you need it, but that's even more motive."

Konoka was caught between the blurring of tears in her eyes from the warm tone of the first part and soft giggles at the wryness displayed in the second. She managed not to sniff, the laughter pushing down the lump in her throat. She replied affectionately, "Thank you Asuna. For everything."

"Just know I got your back through all of this."

Konoka smiled easily, returning her focus to the dark sky. I'm coming for you, Setsuna, and everyone else too. It was easy to fall asleep with Asuna's familiar, steady breathing near her, the distant sounds of commotion from the rest of her friends, and the prospect of Setsuna waiting in her dreams.


"…up…"

Not yet.

"…ake…upid..."

Set-chan will get me up. Just wait until then.

"Wake up!"

Konoka's eyes opened blearily. She blinked, trying to grow accustomed to the world around her again once again. She resisted the desire to huddle down for more sleep.

"Get up you stupid girl!"

Evangeline stood, towering even in her petite size over her and Asuna. The vampire was glaring menacingly down at them both, radiating anger. Konoka immediately snapped to full awareness, and was just in time to witness Evangeline's foot crashing down on Asuna.

Asuna's eyes flew open. Her body, previously sprawled out on her stomach across the cushions, was wracked into a spasm that sent her curling into a fetal position as she groaned. Then she was on her feet, bearing down on Evangeline with clenched fists. "What the hell?!"

The vampire grabbed her by the collar of her shirt, bringing Asuna's face to her level. Konoka gulped as Evangeline narrowed her eyes and showed her fangs. "My place, you follow my rules."

"Master, please don't terrorize Asuna so early in the morning," came the pleading voice of Negi.

Evangeline gritted her teeth and released Asuna who reeled backwards. Konoka, sensing the danger had passed, sighed, full reality returning to her. She shivered, the air feeling cooler after having her body refreshed in slumber. She rubbed at her eyes, prying off the last bit of sleep, and did her best to ignore the stale taste in her mouth. As soon as she was able, she was going to get her hands on some toothpaste. The sky was beginning to tinge with the pink of dawn, but other than that, all her other surroundings remained the same. And no Setsuna.

Negi stood alone just behind Evangeline. Konoka guessed that Evangeline probably woke him up first, and if she was the gambling type, she would put money on her guess that the vampire woke him up just as violently as she did Asuna. Konoka realized he was peering at her closely, and she forced a smile for him. "Good morning Negi-kun."

"You," Evangeline said pointedly at Konoka before Negi could respond. The glare and fangs were now fully focused on her, and Konoka forced herself to keep the smile. She ended up being pleasantly surprised by Evangeline's words. "Judging from what Chachamaru told me, you made the right decision to come here. Most people would have just run after her without a plan, and that would not have ended well for anyone—not against the foe you face."

Konoka blinked, realizing that Evangeline had given her a rare, clear compliment, and then let her mouth relax into a much more natural smile. "Thank you Eva-chan. I would appreciate any help or advice you might have to give. And thank you for coming so quickly. We still have…" She hesitated, sensing the magic of the resort and her own innate sense of the passage of time. "…about 18 hours."

I'll need to sleep again. There won't be time to rest once we get out of here.

"Don't get any wrong ideas, when I felt the magic of the resort, I rushed here to make whoever touched my things pay," Evangeline said shortly, crossing her arms as she settled onto a cushion. "I certainly didn't have any beneficial reasons in mind, but now that I'm here and the half-bird idiot is gone, I might as well help."

"Did Chachamaru tell you everything master?" Negi said, sitting beside the vampire.

"Of course," she scoffed. "Don't ask useless questions unless you actually want people to think you're ignorant."

"Yes master," Negi coughed with a faint blush.

"For example, I'm not going to even ask if you are planning a rescue attempt. As ridiculously loyal every one of you is, and as much as I can sense their presence"—Evangeline pointed at Konoka—"all over each other all the time, I know you didn't just come here to wallow in self-pity and anguish. So out with it! What do you know about the crow demons and what are you planning to do?"

Konoka let Negi reiterate the plans they had made, watching Evangeline's scowl melt as she listened.

"What do you plan to do once you reach their village?" The vampire asked Konoka after Negi finished debriefing.

"I'll investigate the situation and then judge what to do," Konoka said. "I won't be leaving without Setsuna."

Evangeline snorted, "I wouldn't expect any less. But do you understand what you're up against?"

"Hey they seemed plenty scared when they ran off earlier!" Asuna said.

"Of course they had reservations then! There weren't all that many of them going up against you. And it is you lot who were the heroes. Not to mention they were on your territory and more of your allies could have appeared. Do not underestimate them. The crow demon clan is strong, and they are masters of trickery. Fighting them on their territory is an entirely different matter. You should also be aware that their hierarchy is based on strength. The leaders are going to be in a different class than the pawns. Are you prepared for this?" The vampire said. Konoka swallowed as Evangeline's eyes bore into hers.

"I'm ready for anything," Konoka said determinedly. Setsuna is waiting.

"Are you? We'll see about that."

That was all the warning she received.

The world bent around Evangline as she twirled a glowing hand upwards. Konoka's eyes widened and she only just managed to pull up a magic shield in time. The vampire's attack thudded and exploded in impact. Konoka gasped as the impact threw her backwards, but the shield held. She got to her feet and scrambled for more distance, blood pounding in her ears and her heart racing.

Through the haze of smoke, she could see Evangeline hovering in the air a short distance away. The vampire was smirking, showing off a sharp fang. Konoka didn't dare take her eyes off her, her mind racing.

She wants me to fight her. To prove myself? I don't need her approval. I'm saving Setsuna regardless. She has to know that. But…a little less than 18 hours…there's plenty of time. After failing to do anything last time, I need to show I can do this. I won't lose, Eva-chan. I'll show you how far I'm willing to go to get Setsuna back. I won't lose!

"What are you doing!? Attacking Konoka like that! Are you crazy?" Asuna yelled, waving off the smoke of destruction.

Negi coughed, "Master, I…I don't—"

"Shut it both of you, and don't interfere. This is between me and ojou-sama," Evangeline said, and then she turned a threatening stare onto Konoka. "You've been through significant amount of training. You have the potential to be the most powerful mage in existence. Let's see how far you've come, Konoka. It's about time you started shedding potential and started showing what you can do. If you can't beat me in this form, I'll keep you here and let Negi lead a rescue for the halfbreed."

"Eva what is it with you and your insane tests!?" Asuna yelled. "It's always prove this, prove that, prove—" She was interrupted by a flash of magic that exploded near her feet. She yelped and instinctively backed up even knowing such magic wouldn't harm her.

"Sit down and get out of the way. Just watch," Evangeline said. She then half-turned her head, flicking hair over her shoulder as she eyed something behind them. "And keep those other brats from interfering."

Konoka took only a second to look beyond Evangeline and see the rest of her friends emerge from inside. Kaede and Ku Fei both looked ready for battle as they came skidding out. Mana, on the other hand, walked out rather stately after them, not even bothering to reach for a gun. Kotarou was pushed out by Yue and Nodoka, still looking asleep with his droopy tail and ears. Konoka identified the white blob on top of Haruna's head as Chamo who enthusiastically brought up the rear with a battle cry.

"Yes, master!" Negi said. He grabbed Asuna's wrist, pulling her along.

"What? Negi?! We can't just let…!" Asuna said, stumbling after him.

"Eyes on me Konoka, otherwise you'll never stand a chance." Evangeline said smirking with anticipation.

Konoka had never sparred against Evangeline. She had gone up quite a number of times against her other classmates in duels and groups fights, and she had even fought Negi and Kotarou too. But never had Evangeline put herself up against Konoka. Nearly all the others have fought against Eva-chan on some level, but never me. I don't really match up all that well against someone like her when I don't have anyone to guard me while I cast spells. How am I supposed to win against her speed? I…I don't have time to wonder! I just have to win. I will win, Setsuna. For you. Because I can and will save you.

"Lux Ala Lumen Ensis!" The activation words, despite her choice in Latin, flowed off the tip of her tongue with ease. Start big and end it now! "Unus Fulgor Concidens Noctem, in Mea Manu—" She had less than a second to gasp and throw up a barrier. It was a weak one in her haste, barely strong enough to hold back the dark magic Evangeline aimed at her, and she was sent flying backwards. She was lucky enough that it was only the force of the attack and not the magic itself that sent her flying. She couldn't help the yelp of pain when her body hit the ground, skidding a few feet in momentum before stopping. Tears pricked at her eyes, but she did her best to ignore the pain and warily climbed to her feet when she didn't sense another attack. She held her magic, ready to perform a simple, yet effective barrier at the slightest movement from Evangelin.

"No time for that when you don't have your ministra to guard you!" the vampire shouted. She hadn't moved. "You're going to have to do more than just cast spells to beat me because I'll finish you off quickly if you give me that much of an opening." Then she glided forward, fangs prominent.

Konoka resisted the instinct that told her that she was the prey here, and she scrambled for more distance, running out of the veranda and onto the broad path. Evangeline chased her with an ice version of Sagitta Magica, keeping her entirely on the defensive. Fortunately, with her power at the ready, Konoka was able to evade with a magical shield.

She's serious. She's not holding back at all! She's completely serious, but she's right too. I've gotten to be too dependent on Setsuna and others to guard me so that I could do flashy spells at will. I need to take charge and show her what I can do. I hesitated before, but no more. Aggressive, smart, controlled. Setsuna depends on this. I will prove that I'm not weak, that I can protect her too!

She concentrated, dividing part of her magic to maintain her shield and used the rest to manipulate the ground underneath her feet. Konoka felt it stir, and when a brief gap in Evangeline's attack appeared, she urged the ground into motion. It shot up, reaching for the vampire and destroying the brick path. She didn't realize how much force she had put into it until she noticed the yawning chasm that stretched across the path in her magic's wake. But Evangeline had neatly dodged the pillar and was charging at her once again. Eyes wide and trying to stay calm, Konoka frantically met the incoming dark spell with her own light equivalent, and their collision of magic formed a swirling, sparkling wall. Holding the vampire's attack at bay, gave her a chance to recollect herself, and she pushed more power into her spell, knowing, just knowing that she could overcome Evangeline's. And she did. The dark magic broke and collapsed under her power. Invigorated, she pushed her magic forward, ready to consume whatever waited there

"Don't be naïve."

Konoka whirled, her eyes only barely catching the flashing form of the Dark Evangel as she flew forth with a glowing fist. With a sharp intake of breath, Konoka quickly raised her hands with yet another shield. Evangeline's fist cracked against the wall of magic, and the vampire held it there, pushing more force into it, trying to burrow into the barrier.

Powerful! Eva chan's powerful…but stay calm. Hold her back. How does Negi do this all the time?

"I shouldn't be able to do this Konoka, but you're making it too easy. For all your power, you lack finesse! What have you been learning this whole time?" Evangeline scorned.

Don't listen to her. Setsuna is waiting!

Konoka didn't rise to the bait. Instead she redoubled her efforts on her shield, amassing energy in hopes of finding a moment to push back.

Evangeline stared intently through the barrier, a cruel smile playing at her lips. "You're still much too dependent on others to fight your battles!"

"No!" Konoka shouted back. "I'm—"

"—Wide open," Evangeline sneered.

Too late, Konoka felt the hair thin magic slip underneath the bottom of her shield and grab her ankles. Evangeline's hand not occupied with breaking the shield twisted, and Konoka didn't have time for anything as her legs were pulled out in front of her. She groaned as she landed hard on her back, and was only saved from another strike of Evangeline's by the remnant magic of her shield that followed.

"You've chosen to follow the path of a mage," Evangeline said imperiously. She stared down at Konoka, magic glowing threateningly in her hands. Then it flared around her whole person, and Konoka found that she couldn't move, couldn't look away from the inhuman eyes that locked onto her. "I once forced Setsuna to make a choice. Looks like you're going to have to do the same!"

Get a grip Konoka! She's just trying to terrorize you! She's like a cat, playing with its prey. Show her you're no prey! Show her that you can protect Set-chan too! Setsuna needs me!

She reached for more. It was all too easy to draw on her power then—desperate, motivated, tired of Evangeline's mind games. Magic welled exponentially, and she let the floodgates open. Raw, unbridled power rushed forth, and she caught a flash of the vampire's widened eyes before the sunburst blinded her from her surroundings. She knew that was much too easy though. There was no way Evangeline would lose like that. Konoka quickly got to her feet, holding her magic at the ready.

"Not too bad ojou-sama. You can push back when you're shoved."

Konoka quickly found her a short distance away, perched on the parapet that separated them from the sea. She looked to be unharmed, but then Konoka noticed the trickle of blood that ran from her mouth down to her chin and the way she slightly hunched over her abdomen.

"Set-chan didn't make a choice! She chose both and I do too!" Konoka said determinedly.

"True, but Setsuna's different from you—"

"It doesn't matter! I choose both—my happiness and my magic," Konoka said. Saying it aloud filled her with confidence and she felt an easy smile grace her lips. She pulled, and kept pulling, more and more power filling her. Setsuna needs me!

"Heh," Evangeline smirked, "Alright then, show me where happiness gets you in this ugly world!"

The vampire launched her magic again, and this time it was accompanied with aqueous light that solidified as it raced toward Konoka. Pillars and shards of ice, sharpened and empowered to deadly degrees, all aimed for her.

However, Konoka's relaxed smile remained as her magic flew through her mind and body almost instinctively. She felt the endless wellspring inside her; a seemingly eternal source of power located both in the center of her chest and wrapped up in the very essence of her being. And she kept pulling from it. Power enveloped her form in a warm embrace, shuddering down her arms, over her legs, encasing her fingertips. Evangeline's attack shattered against the magic barrier a few feet in front of her, the ice giving away completely. The shield was strong enough that she didn't even flinch much less stumble backwards from the blow. The vampire redoubled her efforts when no counterattack came into a constant barrage of magic that should have overtaken anyone, but Konoka merely took steps forward. Her body hummed with power as she closed the distance between them. She kept pulling it forth, pooling the magic more and more around her. It was so easy, so natural, and it felt so right. The pactio cards in her pocketed reverberated, and she could feel Setsuna around her with the magic. Wings enfolding her, guiding her, protecting her. A ghost of a presence mingled with power, directing her, telling her to keep walking forward. That her target was there, just ahead and nothing could touch her.

I will save Set-chan!

Konoka only remembered where she was, who she was when she saw Evangeline's wide eyes in the heartbeat between her attacks.

She watched in what felt like slow motion as the vampire's weight shifted. She's going to dodge, get around me, and look for opening. The thought came calmly, and Konoka knew she could and needed to end it now. She smoothly raised an arm, magic swirling around it. Just as the vampire sprang, she let her arm drop, fingers extended. The magic surrounding her arm, a curious almost colorless power tinged with yellow and pink, slid to her hand, curling around her fingers.

I will save Setsuna.

The spell shot forward, and she distantly felt her whole body recoil. Her attention though was on the vampire. She watched tranquilly as Evangeline gritted her teeth and raised her arms, doing her best to shield herself with the quickest of magical barriers. Her efforts were futile, Konoka knew. The spell was true.

Setsuna.

And then the world rocked back to normal.

There was an explosion that kicked up dust and debris from the impact of her spell. Before she could even wonder about Evangeline, she was consumed with what felt like a vacuum as her magic rushed back in and that open connection to her power closed like a slamming door. A thick pressure rested on her chest, and it felt like her heart was being squeezed. She gasped, unable to catch her breath. She bent over her knees, her whole body feeling weak and spent as if she had been awake for days without rest.

What did I just do? God, it hurts. I've never pulled that much before. Why did I keep going after it? There was still more too…and it was all so natural. I've always stopped before, I didn't have to go that far against Eva-chan—Eva!

"Eva-chan!" Why did she sound so weak? She struggled to move, but when did it get so hard to take a step? Her voice was not but a whisper, "Eva-chan?"

"Konoka! Take it easy! She's okay!"

Asuna. Always dependable. Konoka smiled, feeling her roommate physically support her. She tried to look, to see for herself that Evangeline was just fine, but her vision was swimming with spots and colors. She settled on just responding to Asuna. Moving her mouth was easier. "Thank…good…ness."

"Don't worry, everything's okay. But damn…what was that? I've never seen anything like that…" Asuna said, sounding both awed and uncertain.

Konoka worked her thoughts into a coherent sentence. "…Setsuna…she's waiting for me."

"Hmmm…maybe we should make you the knight and Setsuna the princess?" Asuna said mischievously.

It was easier for Konoka to spot a grin amid her swimming vision when Asuna was this close, and she managed to return her own tired version. With her roommate's support, she was feeling a bit more stable now, and not quite like she had been knocked unconscious

"Yo Negi!" Asuna yelled, and Konoka winced, her ears ringing. "How's Eva doing?"

"She's good," Negi answered. "I did a basic healing spell, and she's already—"

"—I am just fine brat," the vampire answered much to Konoka's relief, but her voice sounded thin. Evangeline appeared out of the settling dust with Negi supporting her, and Konoka blinked hard to center her vision on them.

Negi immediately talked over the vampire. "Wow! Konoka-san! Just wow. I've never seen anything like that!"

Konoka didn't respond. She was too focused on Evangeline, forcing her vision into complete clarity. The vampire looked spent. Her face was ashen, her hair limp, and she looked as if she was just barely forcing her body to not be dead weight. And Negi had healed her even. What did I do?

"If only I was in my prime," Evangeline growled as they drew closer, "then this could have gotten really interesting…" Her eyes landed on Konoka's and she jutted out a finger. "And you! Are you trying to kill yourself?!"

Konoka took a step back at the ferocity. She closed her eyes as her head pounded in protest at the movement. She was grateful for Asuna's steadying hand on her arm.

"Master, please. Take it easy," Negi said, attempting to soothe the irate vampire.

By this point, the rest of their friends had gathered around them too. Konoka spared them a glance once her headache subsided into manageable pain. They were oddly silent, watching the exchange with a mixture of wonder and concern. Her attention quickly reverted back to Evangeline and Negi who were in something of a hissing spat. The vampire huffed after a moment, crossing her arms, and Negi turned toward Konoka, the corners of his mouth pulling downward in a frown.

"Konoka-san, can you tell me exactly what you did with your magic at the end?" he asked, not unkindly.

She was worried now. Evangeline's brash attitude and Negi's unease, made her realize that she did something unexpected and perhaps unwelcomed. She spoke softly. "It was like any other time I've, or I guess anyone, cast a spell. But then…I don't know…I just kept pulling more and more magic, without a specific spell in mind. There was so much of it, an infinite amount. I mean, I've always known it's there, but I've never felt it like I did today where I could just keep gathering magic. I think I could have kept getting more and more forever."

"We all know that there is a lot on the line right now, but Konoka-san, promise me you'll be more careful," Negi said seriously, but still with ambiguity.

"What he's trying to say," Evangeline continued shortly, "is that with the amount of magic you hold, you can't just let it out freely and unguided like that when you're still not able to fully control all of it. Your magic reserves are too vast to be able to mentally and physically handle it all. Do you understand?"

This really wasn't helping her headache, or the rest of her pains for that matter. "What do you mean I couldn't handle it all?"

"Your magic stores are astronomical, and without the proper control, it can get out of hand. You have to channel it through a spell and not simply release it at your current stage. Think of it this way," Negi said. "You have a floodgate holding back a huge reservoir of water. You open that gate a little bit and a trickle comes out, and the gate holds without much difficulty through its channel. You open it a little bit more, and it's a stream. It's still manageable but the gate is starting to strain under the pressure. Finally, you open the gate some more, and it collapses under the water pressure resulting in a deluge that overtakes everything."

"I was…I would have…" Konoka said with her mind struggling to remember all of her actions over the course of the fight.

"I'm not sure if your body or your mind would have been torn apart first if you had kept pulling more magic without direction," Evangeline said almost casually.

"Eva!" Asuna scolded.

"What?" Evangeline snapped back. "A little truth doesn't hurt anyone. It could save her even."

Konoka distantly observed the two glare at each other, her thoughts racing. First I can't do anything, and then I go too far! What is wrong with me!? Why can't I use my magic like I have been over these past few years without issue? Am I liability here? Can I save Setsuna if I can't even manage myself?

Eventually the vampire sighed, rolling her eyes before speaking with a notable amount of patience. "You're a natural healer. You instinctively know how to handle your power for anything that involves healing, but you're much less use to fighting even after learning and practicing various spells since you started training. It's simply not an innate use of power for you to draw on so much without a spell for guidance in attacking. If you draw on exceptional amounts and keep pulling more and more without directing it through a specific channel, you're simply going to lose control of the magic. And then you're dead and no good to anyone."

"You have made great strides since you began training, but you just have to take steps to control it," Negi said. "It can't all be at once. Eventually, you'll get used to all the magic you hold and be able to release all of it without a spell and without threat. Today you almost reached the limits of control. I don't know if you realized how powerful your final attack was, but Konoka-san…"

It was growing hard to listen, and Konoka tuned Negi and everyone else out unconsciously. She understood what had happened. She had failed. Again. She had gone too far, and nearly burnt herself out in the process. She could have hurt Evangeline too. When did using magic come with all of these catches? It always seemed so easy to Negi as powerful as he was, and to Yue and others to. In the past, she had thought nothing of her ability to use magic. She only knew that she was powerful and making moderate improvements in her usage through training.

But, more than ever, Konoka was determined, and even now, after realizing her mistakes, she was optimistic because she had learnt from both extremes.

I just need to focus on my real purpose. My magic can control itself. I went too far. I was too eager to show that I could save Setsuna. I know I can….But why do I keep faltering in these real situations? I can't be a proper magister magi like this. I can't be Setsuna's partner like this. I'll just have to keep getting better. I have to keep learning. I've proven my power. I did beat Eva. Setsuna is still waiting for me, but I can't blindly rush. I won't make that mistake either. At least I know I can react when being threatened…Goodness, is Negi still talking?

"I understand, Negi-kun," she said gently, interrupting him in mid-sentence. "I know exactly what I did wrong—" Channel your magic through a spell until you can deal with all that raw power you hold; you can't just release it because you can't handle it yet. "—and I'll stop myself from doing such a thing again."

Negi, momentarily taken aback, smiled, "I'm glad to hear it."

"This is a good lesson for the rest of you brats too!" Evangeline said haughtily, eyeing the crowd around them disdainfully. Konoka couldn't help but nearly giggle as she turned her attention to her friends. All of them looked rather glazed over from the talking. Even Asuna, standing beside her supportively had a distant, not-quite-all-there look in her eyes. But everyone perked up immediately at Evangeline's next words. "Alright, who's up for some breakfast? You're going to have to work for it of course."

"Yes!" Kotarou shouted, coming to life. "Food!"

"What are you? A bunch of animals?" Evangeline grumped. "Go on then, head to the dining area."

Everyone headed off in a leisurely pace, much livelier than before with jokes and teasing passing through them with ease. Konoka still caught a couple of them looking back at her curiously as she made to follow them. She took a couple of steps, and that's when she realized all her aches and the odd pressure in her chest were completely gone. Refreshed, or at least no longer feeling as if she had been run over, she was struck by the obvious. "Eva-chan, would you like me to heal you?"

"No. I'm fine," Evangeline huffed.

Konoka chose not to press the issue. If Evangeline said she was fine, then she was fine. Or at least fine enough to heal quickly at her own pace.

"Then I want you to know, and you two as well," Konoka said including Asuna and Negi, "that I've realized my mistakes. Earlier today, I was frozen and couldn't do anything to help Setsuna. Just now, I overcompensated for that failure and went too far. But now, more than ever, I'm determined to save Setsuna. And I will."

Asuna swung a companionable arm around her shoulder. "Like that was going to stop you? I never doubted it for a second."

"I certainly don't like the idea of getting in your way of helping Setsuna—not that I ever would," Negi grinned boyishly. "I'll be there with you every step of the way."

Evangeline looked at her with one eye. "You did beat me. I expect you to bring the halfbreed back. She owes me lots of training for getting into this mess in the first place."

Two mistakes that could have been fatal, and both times I'm bailed out by friends. I'm not one to push them or their help away. But my mistakes and all of my training still serve a purpose, and I will save you Setsuna. Wait for me.


The remaining hours flew by. Konoka ate, practiced magic through simple relaxing spell exercises, and slept. No one said anything about what happened earlier. She was grateful for that as she had internalized the events plenty enough for her own good. What everyone knew was that she was still singularly focused on saving Setsuna, and that was all that mattered.

And now they waited to be transported back to reality. Evangeline watched them go, her face unreadable. As the pull for the return began, Konoka caught the vampire's eye.

"You're not an idiot, and you've learned. It'll work out," Evangeline said with a fanged smile.

"Thank you Eva-chan," Konoka said softly, surprised at the voiced vote of confidence. She watched as the vampire turned her back and stormed away without acknowledging the thanks. Konoka smiled to herself, and it stuck. They had plan, she had learnt a valuable lesson in control, and they were in motion to chase after Setsuna. She took a deep breath as she felt the magic wash over her that would take them back to Evangeline's house, and once again it was like diving into a swimming pool. Then she was on her feet in the familiar wooden room with the rest of her friends crammed into the space.

Konoka shook her head, gathering her wits before moving. "Remember," she said, turning at the doorway to the main room to meet her friends' expectant faces. "Be at the World Tree within thirty minutes. I'm leaving then regardless."

"We'll be there!" Haruna exclaimed, wrapping an arm tight around both Nodoka and Yue who made strangled noises.

"Yeah I'm ready for ass-kicking!" Kotarou said, his tail bristling in anticipation. Ku Fei elbowed him in the gut, grinning all the while.

Others enthusiastically nodded their assent, and Konoka smiled at their support. She whirled back around, ready to dash out of Evangeline's home, but she stopped short once seeing what waited in the main room.

"Konoka-chan," the headmaster said, climbing to his feet.

"Grandpa."


A/N: As for the gateport at Osaka…I couldn't remember if the one in Wales was the only one in the manga or not. To make up for that, and the fact that five minutes of research couldn't procure an answer, I just put a new one in myself with some explanation.

Sticking with the Martian theme of the Magic World, I pulled the name Tharsis from a region composed of a volcanic plateau on Mars.

Thanks for reading! And don't forget to vote on my profile on what you want done in regards to other couples in this fic!

-Yavapai