A Certain Infinite Possibility

by Darkbetrayer

An ancient organization has emerged from hiding in order to bring the world into darkness. Will Touma be able to stop them or will his actions make everything worse. Will Touma finally develop the harem he deserves? Magic and Science will collide in ways no one thought possible. Touma X Harem (Maybe, he is really dense.)

35. S2 ITEM

First chapter of Season 2 is officially here. It is quite long for me because of so many things happening. I wanted something filled with information and excitement with plenty of humor sprinkled in. This chapter will set the stage for future events, but only time can tell what will happen. The winds of change keeps blowing and powerful forces are on the move. Also, thanks for all the positive comments and interesting suggestions.

Guest and whwsms: I wish I had your idea earlier. This chapter was almost done before I read that. It would have taken a lot of changes to try to add that. But, I'll keep an idea your comments gave me for something later.

Several people wanted to see certain girls. Many more will be introduced overtime, but there are limits how many I'll introduce at once so I can keep their character development going. This season will focus on one main group of new girls after a certain point.

PrinceRazor: I could see that, but also Adam with an emotionless voice might also work better. But it's all pretty funny.

I noticed the thing most people were sad about was the dragon in Touma's hand did not stick around. But when you think about it, all the times it shows up, it doesn't stay very long and usually dominates. I'll make a promise for you all though. Next time, well if, it appears again, I'll make sure it lasts longer, just because I like you all.

Anyway, enjoy the new chapter.

Disclaimer: I do not own Toaru Majutsu no Index or any of the characters.

---

"We did it!"

The diner was crowded as a large group of students took an entire corner of the establishment. They included, and sat in this order around the table, Misaki, Touma, Mikoto, Kuroko, Ruiko, Kazari, Jason, Index, Last Order, and, looking like he was dragged there against his will, Accelerator. Everyone else held their glasses up into the air and cheered they all got back in one piece. To them it was a celebration along with talking about the events they had just participated in. Since they took the back corner of the diner, as long as they were not too loud, they could discuss magic without being heard. They had finally given a brief explanation to Ruiko and Kazari about what magic was and how that organization was involved. Both of them were skeptical, but really had no choice but to believe it with all their friends telling them.

"But remember," Index said. "Do not spread the information around. Magicians like to live in secret. It was only due to this special situation we were involved." Kazari and Ruiko nodded, but they were a little excited about everything that happened.

"Don't look so down," Mikoto said to Index. "It's a party so we should enjoy ourselves, even with Mr. Grumpy Pants over there." She nodded her head to Accelerator who growled slightly under his breath.

"What are you, a primary school kid?" Accelerator asked sneering. "I don't even know why I'm here."

"MISAKA believes you should attend more social interactions to avoid being a neet MISAKA explains as MISAKA wants Accelerator to be a productive member of society." Everyone, except Index, at the table had to avoid looking at each other for fear of bursting out laughing. Index looked confused and Touma realized she did not know what a neet was.

"Anyway," Touma said steering the conversation back to the more important matters. "Index, what can you tell us about Lucifer? All we know is he was a fallen angel in Christianity. The Herald guy said he was the first angel and developed free will."

"But that's impossible," Index protested. "Angel's don't have free will or any personal identities. They are just designed to fulfill God's orders and act as messengers to humanity."

"So they are like blank computers?" Kuroko asked. Index looked at her blankly.

"She doesn't know a lot about technology," Touma interrupted. "She meant they are just blank slates until someone, God in this case, inputs an order." Index nodded in understanding.

"If an angel malfunctions and can't understand the orders or does something God does not order," Index continued. "They can become what are known as a fallen angel or demon. They still act similar to normal angels, but they follow different orders. So this free will of Lucifer should not exist. He should be just following different orders as he malfunctioned. Anyway, about Lucifer, he was the angel closest to sitting at the right hand of God. He was the oldest and most beautiful of angels and known as the Light-Bringer. "

"What happened to him?" Ruiko asked.

"When he rebelled against God, he was struck down by the Archangel Michael," Index continued. "Michael used the might of God as a blade to strike down Lucifer who was leading an army of angels against God. Michael then became the leader of angels and more powerful then Lucifer, even though they were once equal."

"How powerful is an angel?" Kazari asked looking around.

"Their power is supposed to defy reason," Jason muttered. "They can cast spells that defy all common sense and could annihilate the world." Everyone looked at him in disbelief.

"I can agree to that," Touma said. "The archangel Gabriel would be able to turn half of the world into ashes. Anyway, we can't allow an angel to materialize on earth."

"Then why did you let them go," Accelerator snarled. "We should have stopped them before they could cause any problems."

"We were in no condition to fight them," Touma retorted. "You saw the girl's power. She could make more The Herald guy we fought. If we had problems with fighting him, do you think we could have fought her while exhausted?"

"Couldn't you just summon that dragon thing," Accelerator asked and everyone flinched. "It worked pretty well the first time."

"Dragon?" Index looked at Touma curiously.

"I'll explain later Index," Touma said hastily glaring at Accelerator. When Index was looking away he shook his head slightly indicating for them not to talk about it in front of her. Accelerator raised an eyebrow and shrugged, but kept his mouth shut. Everyone else knew about it to a certain extent if they were there or not, but they wanted to avoid talking about it until Touma was ready to.

"Anyway we should celebrate while we have the chance," Ruiko said moving the conversation forward. "Only one week left till Golden Week. Sucks we have all those tests this week. I haven't been studying much." She got a little depressed, but everyone got distracted when Touma face palmed.

"Damn I forgot about those exams," he grumbled. "I haven't been keeping up with studying and I know I am going to fail." He slumped down on the table while Mikoto and Misaki started to pat him reassuringly on the back.

"I'm sure you will do fine," Misaki said honestly.

"You just need to cram a little," Mikoto added.

"I doubt the hero can do it with just a little," Accelerator said laughing. "With how many supplemental classes he has to take for being so far behind."

"Shut up," Touma said. "It's not like I don't want to do. It's just, with my hand, all the ability related fields go right over my head. I can't relate to them at all."

"If you need help," Misaki purred. "I'll be glad to answer any questions you may have. Maybe you would like to meet in my room for a pirate lesson?" She leaned up close to him and Touma's heart started pounding.

"If he went over I'm sure he will fail even more," Mikoto snapped at Misaki. "I can help him if he needs it."

"I knew you were just an ape," Kuroko said shaking her head. She was annoyed Mikoto was jumping up to help Touma. "Just how stupid can you be to not study? We have to study constantly and can't fall behind because Tokiwadai has a really strict curriculum." Mikoto and Misaki nodded in agreement. Tokiwadai was a very elite school and even though they were in middle school, their lessons were more advanced them Touma's. Kuroko also had a secondary motive of trying to keep Touma away from Mikoto as much as possible too. "You should study more with your own power. I know onee-sama has helped you before with work, you should be grateful someone as noble, smart, and beautiful would give you the time of day."

"Come on Kuuuuuro-chan," Jason said emphasizing the new nickname. "Don't be so hard on him. We can't all be geniuses."

"What did you call me?!" Kuroko snapped completely distracted. "How dare you address me like that?" Everyone else at the table started to giggle, but tried to stop when Kuroko shot sparks out of her eyes. She and Jason started to argue and everyone else turned back to their conversation.

"Why don't you and Jason look worried about exams?" Kazari asked Accelerator.

He grinned. "It's super easy for us. We don't even study and can pass these exams."

"Must be nice," Kazari said depressed. These exams were always tough for her. Jason will probably help if I ask. Jason put his hand around her shoulders in response to her words and she blushed.

Accelerator turned his gaze over to Ruiko. "Hey girl," he called out and Ruiko looked up. "Did you do what I recommended at the hospital?" Ruiko opened her mouth and got really red fast.

"You told her that?" Misaki and Mikoto yelled simultaneously and even Touma looked surprised. Kuroko, Kazari, and Jason looked confused. Index and Last Order were busy talking about magical girls and stopped paying attention to the teenager's troubles. Accelerator merely grinned in amusement at the sudden reactions.

"Though I can't wait for the system scan Monday," Ruiko said changing topics fast again. She held out her hand and pieces of a paper napkin started to swirl in it. "I can't wait to see how my ability is developing." She looked over to Jason. "What's next?"

"Well I'll have to look at the data from the scan to determine what will happen next," Jason said looking at her. "Due to some unforeseen circumstances dealing with the sin organization, I've been told to cut a lot of my experiments short. Once we get you to level two, you will probably just continue with the normal curriculum."

"Ok," Ruiko said sounding slightly disappointed, but quickly smiled. "I don't care. It's still an ability. I'm interested to see how far I can go with my own strength."

"I'm sure you will do great," Kazari said encouragingly. Mikoto and Kuroko nodded in agreement too. They really wanted Ruiko to be happy with her ability since she was a level 0 for so long and never complained about it. Now that she had a chance to get one, they wanted her to succeed. The party continued for a while and ended on a high note, as they stopped talking about the magic ordeal they had just been through and focused more on everyday school like. Everyone had a good time poking fun at Touma about his school work and then all got depressed at the upcoming exams. Eventually, Accelerator had to leave and started to drag Last Order away when everyone else realized it was getting late. They all left together, still talking, until they got to a point they needed to split up.

Accelerator and Last Order were heading to their apartment, Mikoto, Misaki, and Kuroko were traveling to their school dorm, Kazari and Ruiko to theirs and Touma had to go to his. Maybe I can get an hour or two studying tonight for the review session Komoe-sensei is sure to have tomorrow, Touma thought to himself. Jason decided to go and walk Kazari back to her dorm to spend time with her. Touma wanted to make a joke to get revenge for all the times Jason made fun of him for hanging around a girl, but before he could think of something, someone else spoke up.

"Hey I need to talk to you," Kuroko spoke up. She wasn't talking to Touma, who immediately gave a sigh of relief, but to Jason.

"Sure," Jason started to say. "But wha…." No one else heard anything because Kuroko grabbed his shoulder and teleported them both away. Everyone looked at each other in surprise at Kuroko's weird unexpected action.

"What do you think that was about?" Touma asked. Everyone else just shrugged, except one person who grinned before walking away.

"Obviously she was going to confess her love to him," Accelerator said laughing slightly. Mikoto didn't know if she should laugh or not. Everyone else had a look of pure shock on their faces at his words.

---

Kuroko teleported herself and Jason far away from the rest of her friends, and the ape. She took a breath and looked at Jason who was watching her curiously. "I need to ask you something."

"Ok," Jason said raising an eyebrow.

"When I was fighting one of magicians named Envy," Kuroko began after taking a breath. "She mentioned something really disturbing. I think she was just trying to mess with me psychologically, but she mentioned you." Kuroko was watching Jason's face closely as he frowned slightly. "What is the Parameter List?" She knew she struck gold when his face darkened ever so slightly for a second. If she was not watching him closely, she would have missed.

"Well..." Jason started to say.

"So it's true," Kuroko said turning away from him. She felt as if she died a little bit inside. So our powers are known from the beginning and hard work doesn't matter. They knew onee-sama was going to be a high level even when she was just a level 1. Worst of all, for Kuroko, she was worried her friends were also going to be stuck at a low level and no matter how hard they worked, they would not be able to develop a high level ability. It's so cruel, after all those things they tell us about hard work to get stronger. It also diminishes all the hard work onee-sama put in to level up. She almost felt like crying slightly until she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned around and saw Jason staring at her, but she also saw a look of kindness in his eyes.

"I'll tell you something," he said and Kuroko didn't hear the normal joking tone he always used when talking to her. "It did exist, but they scraped it because it was flawed."

"What?" Kuroko asked. Flawed? What does he mean?

"The first thing I did in the curriculum development division when I found that list was to prove it was false," Jason said. "I developed a process to turn people who were supposed to be stuck at low level into higher levels. Then I had to show someone important I could turn a specific level 0 into a high level. I purposely chose someone who the Parameter List said could not be one."

Kuroko's eyes widened in surprise. "Saten-san?" she asked and Jason nodded.

"According to that list she should not have developed level 1 for a couple years and then she would be stuck at it," Jason continued. "If I get her to a higher level, the list will be scrapped for good. Not only do I help a friend, I get rid of that cruel list that defies the very essence of what the city tells us."

Kuroko didn't know what to say. She always thought Jason just goofed around and never did anything. His words this time actually felt like it mended her heart. I won't be bound by that list. I can get stronger by working hard. I can be like onee-sama. She looked Jason over. "So you are trying to show anyone can become a high level ability user." Jason grinned and nodded.

"I bet if you work hard you can stand side by side with Misaka-san," he said grinning. Kuroko did not want to admit it to him, but she loved the sound of his words. "Oh," he added. "For obvious reasons, don't go spreading that information out. I shouldn't have even told you about it, but I don't care what those guys think." Kuroko frowned.

"You are certainly carefree about your job," she stated. "But even so, you did answer my question. So thanks, it was important to me."

"Anything for you Kuro-chan," Jason said smirking. Kuroko smiled evilly in return.

"For that, you can walk back to everyone else." The last thing she saw was his surprised face before she teleported back to the group.

---

Touma was walking back to his dorm with Index who was really happy. Sure she had bitten Touma on the head, when he was out of the hospital, for putting himself and others in danger to save her, but then she hugged him sincerely while thanking him. Touma was just happy everyone managed to get back alive and no one was traumatized by the events. As they walked, his thoughts turned to something else that came out of nowhere earlier that day.

After leaving Jason's hospital room, and before he met everyone else at the diner, Touma had received a message from, he had no idea why, Frenda. The message said, we need your help, call me immediately. He told Jason he had to run, and left the hospital before pulling out his phone and calling Frenda. The phone rang twice before she answered. "What's the problem," Touma asked concerned. "Are you ok?"

"I-I'm fine," Frenda stuttered before regaining her composure. "It turns out we have an important mission tomorrow and Mugino needs your help with it."

"A mission?" he asked. He had no idea what she meant by that. "I don't know…"

A second later Shizuri's annoyed voice came on the line. "You always said you wanted to help people, well someone's life is on the line if you don't help us. Are you still unsure?"

"Can you give me more information?" Touma asked quickly. "Where should I meet you?"

"Calm down," Shizuri said impatiently. "I can't give information over a non-secure line, but right now you need to meet us tomorrow after your classes let out. Hurry over to the same location you met us when Frenda picked you up before. I'll tell you the information then."

"Ok," Touma sighed. He had no idea what this mission was going to be about, but if someone's life was on the line, and he could help them, he would without a second thought. "Anything else?"

"Yes," Shizuri said and Touma felt her tone indicated she was smiling. "What size jacket, pants, and shoes do you wear?"

"Eh?" Touma asked shocked.

---

Touma was exhausted the next day. Even though he slept well, he still felt like he did not have a lot of energy. He forced himself to get up and make breakfast for himself and Index then headed to school. As he left his dorm, he ran into Motoharu leaving too. "Hey Kami-yan," he called out. "You look terrible. Were you with too many girls last night?"

"Don't be stupid," Touma said yawning. "I was stuck in the hospital most of the day and then we had a small celebration because we all came back. How are things on your side?"

"A lot more peaceful that's for sure," Motoharu said smacking Touma on the back. "Thanks to you and your friends help. We got back most of the grimoires back from that organization. Best of all, your direct participation was not identified thanks to the Amakusa."

"Wait," Touma said slowing down. "Most?"

"We recovered twenty grimoires form the arena," Motoharu said seriously. "However, a total of twenty five grimoires had gone missing recently."

"Eve and Adam must have kept them to try to revive Lucifer," Touma muttered and his words stopped Motoharu in his tracks.

"They are trying to revive Lucifer?" Motoharu asked suddenly. "As in the fallen angel Lucifer?"

"Yes," Touma said looking at him before realizing Stiyl may not have known about it to tell Motoharu. "Eve and Adam said they were trying to collect his wings to complete the ritual to revive him." Touma grew concerned at the serious look that came over Motoharu's face. "I know an angel on earth is a serious matter, but what's with that look."

"Ah nothing," Motoharu said and his face broke into a wide grin. "Just thinking about things." Touma knew he was hiding more information than he was telling, but Touma also knew he couldn't get any more information from Motoharu unless he chose to give it.

Back at school, they were greeted by Pierce who looked like he was trying to talk to Accelerator before they arrived. Accelerator looked like he wanted to smash Pierce over the head with a desk though. "Hey Kamijou," Pierce called out. "Help me settle an argument with Accelerator. What's the best color of a girl's underwear?"

"White," Touma said instantly. "White is the sign of a pure heart."

"Ah what are you talking about?" cried Pierce. "Everyone knows bright colors are the best. Girl's need to keep their child-like innocence."

"You are both wrong," Motoharu said. "Purple is the best by far. It represents mystery with eroticism."

"Accelerator was trying to say black was the best," Pierce said jerking his thumb at him.

"It's more adult than his stupid choice," mutter Accelerator. "Now keep me out of your damn argument." He leaned back in his chair and went to sleep. Of course, the Delta Force could not let such an important topic stop without serious debate. Their debates usually turned violent and this one was no exception. They were still trading blows when Seiri entered the room. She walked in and heard them yelling about something.

"White!"

"Purple!"

"Bright!"

"What are they fighting about now?" she asked someone.

"Underwear colors." Those two simple words made the Delta Force suffer blunt force trauma as Seiri sighed, made a fist, and proceeded to pummel all three of them. Accelerator opened one eye and was glad he managed to avoid their stupid argument. When the bell rang the Delta Force pulled themselves up from the floor into their seats. Touma noticed Jason was not here today and frowned.

That's weird; I thought he would have to be here for the system scan?"

"Good morning class," Komoe said as she walked into the classroom and stepped up onto her stool so she stood above her desk. "As you know, the next couple of days we will be focusing on exams before you all forget everything over Golden Week. Before then, please focus on working hard this week, because I know none of you want to stay here over break. Of course, if any of you have to stay and have supplementary classes, I will be teaching them. As a teacher though, I hope you all can enjoy your break. Right Kamijou-chan?" Several of Touma's classmates snickered when she singled him out.

"Yes sensei," Touma said quickly. Most of the morning was taken up by the periodic system scan to determine every student's development. After Touma was hooked up to several machines and completed the test, he saw the scientist measuring his ability shake his head and mutter, "Still Level 0." Normally this would bother him a little bit, even though he never let it worry him in the long run, but now he knew his hand emitted something different then a normal AIM field. Only Jason, Accelerator, and Mikoto knew about it, so it would make sense these scientist did not know unless Jason told them. He went back to his class and joined Motoharu and Pierce to celebrate continuing to be Level 0s. Touma watched Accelerator return nonchalantly and go back to sleep.

The rest of the day was devoted to reviewing for the exams they would have the next couple of days. Komoe was going over all the main topics that would be covered and Touma was desperately taking notes and trying to pay attention. He did not want to have to stay and take supplementary lessons. It was hopeless though. He got lost about twenty minutes into the lessons. He occasionally knew what she was talking about, but overall, anything relating to abilities was over his head. He could at least understand the math, science, and language easily enough. It was the ability credits that were most likely going to be his downfall. I hope I can memorize these notes at least, he thought looking at the pages of notes he was scribbling down as fast as he could. I might be able to just remember them and put them down as an answer and pass that way. It was a small ray of hope, but it was the only thing he could think off.

"Hey Kami-yan," Motoharu said about five minutes before the end of the day. "Want to come hang out. We found a new video store that rents out ANY movie to anyone." He gave a big wink and a high five to Pierce. Touma shook his head at their antics and even Accelerator looked at them.

"Come on Kamijou," Piece said. "Even Accel-kun is coming." That made Touma turn his head in shock at Accelerator. Accelerator suddenly looked pissed.

"I never said that b#$*%!&," Accelerator growled. "Don't go putting words in my mouth."

"You would come anyway," Motoharu grinned. "You can't resist our fun." Accelerator looked like he was about to reach out and strangle them.

"Sorry guys," Touma lied. He was not sorry at all. "I'm busy tonight and can't do stupid things with you, maybe next time."

"Going to hang out with girls Kami-yan?" Motoharu asked grinning.

"Kamijou you b#$$^&%," hissed Pierce. "Blowing off your friends to hang out with your girlfriends, I'm ashamed at you. How many is it this time?"

"You know what?" Touma said exasperatedly. "Yes, I am going to meet a bunch of girls. Does that make you all feel better? I am going to hang out with girls instead of you tonight." They both looked at him stunned with their mouths open. Even Accelerator looked surprised as he raised an eyebrow.

"Huh," Pierce said regaining his tone. "I guess he is just going to study for the exams. There is no way Kamijou would tell us that. He must be trying to be sarcastic."

'Well played Kami-yan," Motoharu said grinning. "We almost believed you."

"I think it was mentioned yesterday some girls from Tokiwadai were planning to help him study," Accelerator said grinning evilly. Touma looked at him and mouthed 'why?' Accelerator shrugged and laughed slightly.

"There's the Harem King we know," Pierce said shaking his head. "He will just sit at home and the girls will come to him. I guess he is trying the passive strategy now. He's at such a high level."

"If we hurry," Motoharu whispered. "I'll be able to monitor them after we get the videos. I'll let you know what happens." Pierce gave him a thumb up and Touma groaned.

As soon as the bell rang, Touma ran out of the classroom. Not only was he trying to escape whatever plan Motoharu and Pierce had set up, he had to go meet Shizuri and Frenda at their base. I hope I remember where their place is. Mugino could have been more specific on the details of what they need my help for. I hope she wasn't lying about saving a life. He wasn't exactly sure where to go since it had been awhile, but he saw a few familiar landmarks and finally found the place. He put in a code Shizuri had given him to bypass the card reader on the door and he entered the apartment complex. He went up six floors, found the apartment, and knocked. A second later the door opened and he was greeted by the short brown hair of Saiai.

"Wow," she said looking slightly surprised. "You actually showed up." She let him into the apartment.

"I was told it was important," Touma replied looking around. The only other person in the apartment was the black haired girl, Rikou, who was actually standing up and stretching. "Where are Mugino and Frenda?"

"Frenda had to move out late last night," Saiai said as she sat down on the couch. Touma thought he could almost see under her fluffy dress, but it always seemed to just barely cover the important parts. "Mugino is getting ready in there." She nodded to a door and Touma assumed that was the bathroom. "Mugino he's here," she called out. The door opened and Touma was momentarily speechless.

When Touma was told mission, he thought they would be running around back alleys fighting some weird organization. That was how his missions usually went when he went to help someone. Normally, you would wear practical old clothes since they were sure to be destroyed. He did not expect Mugino to step out of the bathroom in a full length revealing bright red dress. It was a backless type with the front barely covering her well-endowed chest. It was long and reached down to her feet. Since Touma usually hung out with girls his age or younger, he forgot the beauty of an older girl until now. He wasn't sure how old she was, but he assumed, at the very least, she was his age, but she might have been a year or two older. However, he was captivated by her looks, something that Shizuri did noticed. She smiled.

"Close your mouth Kamijou," she ordered and he snapped it shut immediately. She flipped her hair back. Touma almost didn't notice, because of her dress, but her soft tea-colored hair was now pitch black. She had obviously dyed it for some reason. "I suppose you want to know why we need your help."

Touma nodded. "I take it has something to do with your new look?" The corner of her mouth curved downward slightly at his lackluster tone.

"Very astute," she said. "I suppose I should give you a rundown of the organization you are a part of tonight. We are called ITEM, Frenda, Takitsubo, Kinuhata and me. Our group's purpose is one thing, keeping the balance of the upper classes of Academy City, including the board of directors. We do whatever needs to be done, no matter what it takes."

"What do you mean balance?" Touma asked. He didn't like the sound of her last statement though.

"You see," Shizuri explained. "Once some of those people get in power, they want more. Many times, they try to stop others from gaining power because they see it as a threat to theirs. In some situations, they will even kill to stop them." Touma gulped but kept listening. "That is what is happening now. Someone is trying to kill a member of the board of director using a very special nanobot technology. The nanobots are designed to target a specific biological DNA pattern and will break apart the DNA inside the person, dismantling them apart from the inside."

"What kind of person would do that?" Touma asked slightly sick.

"I didn't ask," Shizuri said. "We were told we can't touch him for some reason. Our purpose is to stop the nanobots. Kinuhata and Takitsubo," she motioned to the other two girls in the room," are going after the container with the actual nanobots. We are going after the activation switch for them. Frenda has always infiltrated the location we are going to, in order to set up surveillance devices."

"Where are we going to find this switch?" Touma asked.

"The Yanadem Tower, are you familiar with it."

"Vaguely," Touma said. "It's a really fancy hotel for the upper class right?" That would explain why she is all dressed up. Going into the tower dressed in casual clothes would certainly attract attention. He had heard of the tower, but never had any reason to go near it. He was a poor high school student after all.

Shizuri nodded. "A simple, but accurate, description, as expected of you." Touma chose to ignore the slight insult and focused on another question that had been bugging him.

"Why do you need me to help?" Touma asked. He was confused at why she wanted him to help her infiltrate such a high class place. Surely she wouldn't be suspicious the way she looks. I mean, she looks really high class just by herself.

"The answer is really quite simple," Shizuri said crossing her arms. "The switch is going to be disguised and sold during an auction in the ballroom. Our informant got us two invitations to the auction. However, these kinds of things are always designed for groups or some wealthy business man. They were willing to send one of their men as an escort, but they always draw attention. I thought about it and decided someone closer to my age would draw less attention. Some people might overlock a thirty plus year old man with me as an escort, but others will not. While there are a lot of shady people at these events, some are actually decent human beings. You also have combat experience which may be necessary if things go south."

"So you want me to escort you to this auction so you can find the switch?" Touma asked to clarify. "But I'm just in my school uniform and I know I don't have any fancy enough clothes for something like this."

"You are doing more than just escorting me," Shizuri said and this time there was a definite smile on her face. "YOU are going to this auction and I am simply accompanying you as your date."

"EHHHHH!" Touma gaped at her in surprise.

"Close your mouth," Shizuri said irritated. "I know you consider yourself lucky to be in my company." Her smiled widened again. "As with the problem with your clothes, why do you think I asked for your sizes? Bring his new clothes out." Rikou walked over to the closet and pulled out a black suit, white undershirt, tie, pants and shoes then brought them over to Touma. She immediately walked away after handing the clothes to him.

Touma looked at the clothes and his heart stopped. The suit and pants were very high class and he doubt he would have even been able to afford them even if he saved up for a year. How much money does she have? He didn't know the brand of the shoes, but they looked to be of similar quality. "These must have cost a fortune," he stammered.

"They did," Shizuri admitted. "However, it is a small price to pay to accomplish our mission. Now get in that bathroom and put those clothes on before I get impatient and make Kinuhata force you into these." Saiai grinned at him and cracked her knuckles. Touma didn't think she looked dangerous, but he lived in Academy City long enough to not judge a book by its cover, for example Mikoto and Kuroko. He sighed and went into the bathroom to change.

This doesn't look bad, he thought to himself. He looked at himself in the mirror. The black suit and pants fit him really well. The tie was dark blue and went with the suit. He still couldn't get his hair to lie flat. Touma sighed knowing Shizuri was not going to be happy with that excuse. He unlocked the door and walked out while straightening out the sleeves. He could feel all three of the girl's eyes examining him.

"You were right," Shizuri said muttering to Saiai. 'He wouldn't make his hair flat, go ahead." Before Touma could react Saiai jumped up behind him and hit his hair with some kind of gel. He thought about struggling, but he froze under Shizuri's glare. It said simply, 'move and die.' Saia stopped and wiped her hands off on a towel as Shizuri inspected him. "Hmm, he really doesn't look bad." Shizuri walked up to him and straightened his tie. "He is at least presentable and will not attract any attention to us."

"I think you will attract more attention them him," Saiai said and Shizuri grinned.

"Well it's a good thing then," Shizuri said. "If he was unattractive, then no one would believe he would actually be able pick up someone like me up." Saiai nodded in agreement while Rikou just stared at Touma making him very uncomfortable, especially as he realized something else.

Did she just compliment me? Touma wasn't sure, but he definitely felt she did. It made him feel slightly better getting complimented by an attractive girl. He glanced at himself in the mirror with his hair slicked down. I look weird without spiky hair. He shook his head slightly as he remembered why he was here. We are saving someone life. "When are we leaving?"

Shizuri looked at the clock. "Kinuhata and Takitsubo, you both need to go now." They nodded and left quickly. "We will get picked up shortly by a limo and be taken directly to the tower. Any other stupid questions?"

"When we get there," Touma asked figuring now would be the best time to understand what he was supposed to do besides stand there. "What all am I going to be doing?"

Shizuri glared at him as if she thought he was trying to be funny. "First, don't attract attention, I'll guide you. We are simply arriving, and heading straight for the auction. After determining which item is being sold with the switch, we will meet Frenda in her room to steal it. Tsk," she made an impatient noise with her tongue. "I hate doing this the subtle way. It would just be easier to go in blasting."

"Can I ask why you colored your hair?" Touma asked cautiously. Shizuri looked at him, but Touma had a hard time figuring out what the look was. It seemed to be a combination of irritation and amusement.

"Even though I am a level 5," Shizuri told him. "I am involved in the dark side of Academy City, I cannot let me name and appearance be widely known or it could be dangerous for me. So I simply changed my appearance a little to avoid detection. As long as I don't cause too many problems, even with just a simple change of appearance, they won't recognize me. We also have people to help make sure information doesn't get leaked. Why did you even asked?"

"No reason," Touma said quickly and looked away. "It just looks good…," he added sheepishly.

"You sound like a normal guy now," Shizuri said. Touma was looking away so he didn't see her smile. The only thing he could think of was his words did sound like he was flirting. Luckily, he was saved from any further embarrassing talk by the arrival of the limo. "About f$%*ing time they show up," growled Shizuri. "Let's go." They left the apartment and entered the limo. During the ride, Shizuri handed him a card. "This is your name now if a situation comes up." He looked at name on the card, 'Munoto Karubo.' It sounded a little ordinary to him, but it could have been worse. They drove off in silence and he gazed out the window for most of the trip. He could have sworn he saw Shizuri watching him out of the corner of his eye but, every time he glanced at her, she was looking out the window.

Touma was nervous since this would be the first high class event he ever attended, but Shizuri seemed bored by the entire thing. He had realized through their conversations, she was more of a girl of action rather than infiltration. When they arrived at the tower, Touma looked out and noticed all the very high class looking adults walking into the building. His eyes fell on the women and he began to realize the difference between commoners like him, and these rich individuals. Even Tokiwadai wasn't as impressive as the Yanadem Tower. He saw the marble statues outside the main entrance tower over them as they pulled up. This is an entirely different world. He did notice many young people around his age, and slightly older, come and go so he shouldn't draw to much attention.

"Don't gawk idiot," Shizuri hissed at them as they got out. She clung to his arm as they walked up the steps to the tower. He could feel a lot of people's eyes on him. Many women were looking at Shizuri with jealousy while the men were looking at Touma with jealousy, along with them wishing him nothing but ill. Touma could feel Shizuri's chest right up against him, but he tried to focus on walking forward and not attracting attention to him for not belonging here. He passed the invitation to a man inside the main lobby and he was given a number to use for the auction. They walked into the ballroom and sat down side by side at a table in the back without any problems. "Now we wait," she whispered to him.

"I thought it would be harder to get in here," Touma whispered back.

"These events are all about appearance," Shizuri said as a waiter brought them drinks. She sipped hers and looked toward the stage. "Hurry the f%&$ up already," she muttered angrily. "This is such a waste of time being here." People were slowly making their way into the ballroom and taking their seats. Of course, some of the males did not bring dates. One male guard was standing in a corner that Touma did not notice, but this guard did notice him.

"Is that really Kami-yan?" the guard muttered to himself.

"Hello gorgeous," one male said walking up to Shizuri, grabbing her and Touma's attention. He must have been forty years old at least. "How would you like to sit at my table and we can talk about the future?"

Shizuri rolled her eyes and clutched Touma's arm. "I'm sure that would be lovely," she said smiling insincerely. "But I'm with Karubo-san today. Please leave." Touma raised an eyebrow slightly at her lady like response. That was not the usual reaction he knew from Shizuri. The guy looked like he was thinking about arguing, but as Shizuri told him, appearance is everything here. He left without incident. Touma saw a glint in Shizuri's eyes as she wanted to kill the guy. To keep other guys away, Shizuri hung onto his arm often and laughed as though he said something funny. Touma did find himself constantly staring at her as she was an incredibly attractive girl. "Finally," she whispered. "It's starting." The light dimmed and a man walked up on stage.

"Welcome ladies and gentleman," the man said speaking into a microphone. "As I know you are all eagerly waiting for today's auction, let's not waste any time. Just a quick reminder all purchases are made at the end of the auction. Our first item is this lovely…"

Touma stopped paying attention. He did not know what he was looking for, but Shizuri apparently did. She was staring intently at each item that was brought out. Touma didn't understand why any of this stuff was considered valuable. A single painting went for ten million yen. He could not comprehend how anyone would pay that much for something to hang up on their wall. I guess this is the difference between the rich and poor. He couldn't talk to Shizuri because he might distract her as she was looking for the switch. Touma knew what would happen if she missed it because Touma distracted her.

"There it is," Shizuri whispered and smiled. Touma turned his attention from her to the item being sold. The item being sold was some kind of medical kit with several vials. The man on stage was saying it could extend someone's life by easily fifty years. It was developed as a side project of Academy City's plan to extend the average individual life expectancy. However, this particular project was discontinued because it was too time consuming just to make enough dosage for a single person. Touma couldn't believe something like this existed and the bid opened at fifteen million. "It is number twenty two," she whispered and Touma saw she was whispering into a microphone hidden in her dress. "Ok Kamijou, let's go."

"Where we going?" he whispered as they got up.

"To our friends room," she muttered then smiled and said louder, "I'm bored Karubo-san, let's go to your room and have some fun." Touma immediately felt his ears go red as they started to leave the ballroom. He heard whispers from several nearby guys.

"Lucky b#^*!&^."

"He must be rich to score a girl like that."

"Hate those brats who get into these events with just their parents influence."

They left the ballroom and took the elevator up to the tenth floor. They went down the hall to the fifth room on the right. Shizuri knocked twice before she slid her key card into the slot. The door opened so they walked in then shut and locked the door behind them. Touma looked around at the fancy hotel room. There was a huge king size bed and a large desk in the corner. A huge flat screen TV covered an entire wall and there was a door that probably let to the bathroom. Frenda walked through that door holding a headset and laptop. She was wearing a very revealing bright blue dress too. It did not suit her nearly as well as Shizuri's, but it made her look a lot older then she probably was. She looked Touma up and down and blushed slightly, then turned back to Mugino.

"You look good Kamijou," she said red then to Mugino, "I have good news and bad news. The good news is the storage area for the items is on this floor since they didn't want it near the ground to be easily stolen."

"What's the bad news?" Mugino asked glaring at her and Frenda coward under her stare.

"B-basically," Frenda stammered. "It's not my fault. They heightened security because they found an unauthorized individual near the ballroom. Several security personnel chased him out of the hotel, but now they are worried he might be part of a group. One of the guards was late to return saying he was almost ambushed, but managed to get away. So now, even though the storage area is down the hall to the right, there are a lot of security personnel there. Basically, we won't be able to sneak in and will have to rely on force." She pointed to her laptop were several cameras were showing the guards. "They haven't found my hidden cameras so we still have the advantage."

"Damn it," Shizuri growled. "Some idiot made a mess for us. What did he look like?"

"Basically, they just said he had brown hair," Frenda said shrugging. "It could be a disguise, but they didn't provide any other information."

"F#%^!" Shizuri spat out and sat down on the bed. "Let me think." She did not expect someone else to try to infiltrate here. It might not have been too bad if they didn't mess up and make security tighter. Then again, if they were smart, they might have a reason to add more personnel. They could be after something else here for some other reason. She glanced over at Touma who had taken a seat on a chair and Frenda who was monitoring their communication. "Keep me updated Frenda, you know what will happen if you slip up." She started to flex her fingers.

"Y-yes Mugino," Frenda stuttered turning pale and went back to work focusing on the security conversations.

"So Kamijou," Shizuri asked. "What do you think of this world?"

"Well," Touma said rubbing his head. "It's a little weird being in such a high class environment. We really haven't done much."

"True," Shizuri conceded. "Usually there is a lot more violence. Give it time."

"I'm not really looking forward to violence," Touma said honestly and Shizuri smirked.

"You are to pure Kamijou…" she started to say when Frenda interrupted her.

"Mugino!" Frenda cried. "Something is happening." Both Shizuri and Touma crowded behind her and watched the screen. One of the guards was walking up to the storage area before being halted by all the guards at the door. They were talking, but to softly to be heard from the camera's microphone. It looked like the new guard was trying to get through the door. Suddenly, a younger guy in the back shouted out.

"He's an imposter, shoot him!" He might have had some sort of mind reading ability.

All the guards started to pull out his weapons. The imposter guard was faster and pulled something out of his pocket and tossed it. The small metal orb released a green cloud of gas and all the guards fell to the floor. The green gas disappeared quickly and the imposter guard walked to the door and reached for it. Several bullets exploded through the wooden door and the imposter just managed to dive to the side to avoid them. He turned and ran down the hall and turned a corner out of sight of the cameras Frenda set up. The door to the storage room burst open and about twenty guards burst out. One of them yelled out, "search every room on this level and kill anyone the least bit suspicious. Then, A group move upstairs and B group move downstairs."

"Yes sir!" They said and ran out. They had some kind of master key cards to open doors and started systematically checking all the rooms. So that meant even Touma's, Frenda, and Shizuri's room was going to get checked.

"Shit they are almost here," Shizuri spat out. "Frenda hide the equipment then get on the bed." She grabbed Touma and threw him on the bed before he could even ask. A second later Frenda jumped on the bed too. Shizuri shot a quick look at the door as the footsteps were getting closer. She pulled down one of the shoulder straps of her dress over her arm revealing her black underwear. She then moved on top of Touma and looked down at him.

"Eh!" Touma explained.

"Mugino…?" Frenda said looking at him.

"Shut up and flirt," Shizuri growled and right when they heard the door click unlock, she bent down over Touma, half undressed, and kissed him passionately on the lips. At the same time, Frenda grabbed Touma's hand and slipped his hand under her dress onto her chest. She looked over at Touma and Shizuri's kiss when the door burst opened by two men. The guards stopped for a second, and closed the door quickly. Shizuri lifted her head and listened.

"What was that? You didn't even check the room?"

"A guy was currently doing it with two attractive females."

"Lucky b#$&*^%. I want to kill him."

"SHUT UP AND FIND THAT INTRUDER!" The stomping slowly got softer as the groups spread out. Shizuri stood up and pulled her dress back up. Frenda, who was beet red, moved herself away from Touma and refused to look at him. Touma was also bright red, but he was so stunned he couldn't move or think. The surprise attack had clouded his mind. It was a very passionate kiss along with him feeling another girl's chest. Being in that position was any man's dream. Finally, he shook his head and stood up.

"Wha… What was that?" he gasped.

"Hiding in plain sight," Shizuri said simply while glancing at Frenda, who was still bright red, and smirking. "They were looking for a suspicious individual, not a rich man making love with two girls. You two just need to grow up and stop acting like a grade school couple."

"Basically," Frenda protested, but was obvious embarrassed. "It's not like that."

"Shut up," Shizuri snapped and Frenda's mouth closed instantly. "I don't know who that was, but he just made our job easier. They lost most of their guards. We should still assume there may be one or two guards still in the storage area, but now it's our best chance. Let's go." She headed to the door and Touma and Frenda quickly followed her. They made their way to the door at the end of the hallway and stepped over the unconscious guards. The door was closed so Shizuri knocked. They saw someone looked through the bullet holes in the door.

"Move it girl, this area is off limits."

"So sorry about that," Shizuri said smiling. Out of nowhere, she spun around and delivered a powerful kick to the door and sent it flying off the handles. It smashed into the guy's head, knocking him out, as it flew backwards. Shizuri walked forward while Frenda and Touma followed right behind her. Frenda jumped to the side and kicked another guard who was pressed up against the wall near the door. There didn't seem to be any other guards as Shizuri looked around. "There it is," she walked over to the corner of the room and reached down to pick up the metal box containing the medical equipment and, supposedly, the switch.

Suddenly, from behind one of the cabinets, a brown haired guy leaped out and stretched his hand out toward Shizuri. His hand was glowing red and the air around it was shimmering slightly. Shizuri recognized it immediately as an ability to concentrate heat at a single point. Heat focused at one point could turn someone's hand into an incredibly sharp blade. It was coming right toward her chest. Shizuri's Meltdowner ability is incredibly powerful as an attack, but has a fatal weakness. She needs a certain amount of time to aim her ability. If she doesn't, it could shoot off in a random direction or, even worse, hit her. Frenda reached under her skirt for her bombs, but she was not fast enough. I can't believe I made such a rookie mistake. I'm going to die for this. She was incredibly pissed at herself, until she saw a blur out of the corner of her eye.

Touma had already begun moving as soon as the man appeared form behind the cabinet. He did not know what the man was able to do. All Touma knew was the man was going after Shizuri. He reached out his right hand and knocked the heat blade hand the man made. There was a sound of breaking class, and the blade disappeared. The man opened his mouth to yell in surprise, but Touma drew back his fist and delivered a powerful blow into the man's jaw. The man flew backwards and smashed into a heavy cabinet with a dull thud. He looked up in a daze and saw Shizuri standing over him. A green orb appeared next to her and she was looking at the man in pure anger. She grinned, but it wasn't a happy grin, it was an evil grin of someone who was about to kill another person.

"Please…" the man whimpered.

"Would you have shown me mercy?" Shizuri asked.

"Don't do it," Touma's voice called out from behind her. She turned around and looked at him. 'He's already beaten. You don't need to kill him."

Shizuri kept one eye on the guy before her. He was still dizzy from the punch so he wouldn't be able to concentrate on his ability for a bit. She didn't know why, but after hearing Touma's words, she was actually debating on whether to kill this guy or not. Normally, she wouldn't leave anyone alive during a mission like this, but she was told to keep it subtle as much as possible. It is possible someone could recognize my ability. She also knew leaving someone alive who saw her face would come back to bite her later. When she saw Touma's eyes, she again saw the strength and determination she saw in it before. He was one of those guys that she always believed to be weak, always spouting about helping others. Now, one of those weak guys had not only beaten her once before, but even saved her life. Her heart started beating heavily and she felt like her stomach was slightly nauseous. "Fine," she said bitterly as the orb disappeared. The man on the ground sighed in relief, and then Shizuri turned and delivered a kick to his head. The man fell down unconscious. "Frenda, wipe his mind of this incident, along with the guy by the door."

"What are you doing?" Touma asked nervously as Frenda pulled out a small electric handheld device from under her skirt.

"It's a handy little device," Shizuri said as she reached down to the medical kit for the switch they had come for. "If you use it on someone unconscious, it sends a little electrical impulse into their mind that wipes out the last thirty minutes or so. It is quite handy to use on people we can't kill, but also can't allow ourselves to be recognized. It's not nearly as nice if you use it on someone conscious though." She gave a slightly evil laugh and Touma felt his stomach turn. "Got it," Shizuri said pulling out the switch. She stuck it into her chest. "You finished yet Frenda?"

"Yes Mugino," Frenda said standing up after shocking the second man. "Also, I just sent the signal to fry the laptop so they can't get any information from it."

"Excellent," Shizuri said. "Good work both of you. When we get back, we will be sure to celebrate. Let's move." Touma and Frenda both nodded and followed her. They took the elevator and, right before they got to the ground floor, Shizuri hung on to his left arm, while Frenda hung on to his right arm. The door opened and they walked across the main lobby. Touma could swear he was receiving death glares from several of the other men, but he did his best to ignore him. He was used to death glares from his classmates, so they did not bother him horribly. He just didn't want to get shot in the back. To his relief, they managed to leave the hotel without incident. They all got into their limo waiting for them before the girls let go of him. They spread out in the seats and Touma finally relaxed.

"Now if Takitsubo and Kinuhata did their job," Shizuri said. "This mission will be a complete success." She actually appeared to be in a good mood to Touma. But he didn't know she was still slightly annoyed she didn't get to kill anyone.

"That was stressful," Touma said leaning back in his seat. "Keeping a low profile with you two clinging to my arms was tough."

"Oh?" Shizuri grinned evilly. "What do you mean by that Kamijou?" She leaned over and grabbed his arm and pushed her chest against him. Touma turned red and avoided eye contact with her. She winked at Frenda who got the message. She grabbed Touma's other arm and pressed her chest against him. She wasn't as big as Shizuri, but she still had a chest.

"W-what do you mean by that?" Touma asked franticly toward Shizuri.

"Basically, it almost sounds as if you didn't appreciate us," Frenda said. Touma noticed she and Shizuri were grinning slightly, though Frenda was slightly red. "Are we not attractive?"

"Umm, err," he stuttered before finally crying out. "Ah, you two need to stop messing with me!"

---

Outside of the warehouse, Saiai and Rikou were monitoring the shipment of the nanobots as they crouched behind a large crate. They had to wait for quite a while, until the shipment was delivered by trucks. Saiai turned to Rikou. "Do you see any ability users among them?"

Rikou shock her head. "They all appear to be normal people, but there could be a chance someone can hide their AIM field." Saiai nodded in acknowledgement to her warning.

"This is going to be over super fast then," Saiai said cracking her knuckles. "Simple guns can't stop my Offense Armor. I only count about fifteen of them." She stood up and started moving toward the warehouse. "Contact me if you detect any ability." Rikou nodded and Saiai ran forward. Because of her small body, and the sun beginning to set, she wasn't noticed until she was almost to the nearest guard. The guard started to raise his gun and Saiai reached over picking up a heavy crate and threw it. It smashed into him and continued flying forward a good twenty feet before it stopped in a resounding crash. Suddenly, the air was filled with the noise of gunfire as many of the guard started firing at her. For some reason, the bullets seemed to stop just short of her skin. She smiled.

Saiai's ability was known as Offense Armor. Her ability allows her to control the nitrogen in the air in order to create a barrier around herself. It was the result of the nightmarish experimentation done to her in the Dark May Project, where a portion of Accelerator's thought patterns were inserted into her brain. Saiai received an idealized version of Accelerator's Redirection, and this allowed her the ability to create a 360 degree barrier around her. The barrier is made of super-compressed nitrogen instead of Accelerator's vector manipulation. She can also control compressed mass of nitrogen and lift heavy objects, like the crate she just threw, and deliver extremely powerful punches. All the bullets were stopped by her armor. They would need extremely powerful weapons to break through her armor, handheld automatic guns just would not suffice.

"Is that all you got?" she laughed and ran forward punching two more of guards. She heard their bones break before they collapsed. The other guards spread out and kept firing, but they might as well have done nothing for how much damage they did. She grabbed another heavy crate and crushed another one. The fight was over pretty quickly as Saiai systematically killed each of the guards. "Easy," she said into her microphone. "Luckily these guys are part of the dark side or I might have felt super guilty killing some innocent stooges. I'm heading inside."

"Understood," Rikou said. Right when Saiai walked into the warehouse, Rikou saw it, an AIM field. Her eyes widened as she recognized it and she felt shivers down her spine. A monster was heading directly to the warehouse where Saiai was. "Kinuhata?" she whispered. "Kinuhata?" No reply came back and all she heard was static. There must be something in the warehouse blocking the transmission. Be careful Kinuhata. All she could do was watch the two AIM fields get closer and closer.

Saiai on the other hand was too busy dealing with a couple more guards inside the warehouse. "Hah," she laughed. "These guys are a joke. Where are the anti-armor rifles? If you guys know you are doing something illegal, you should be super prepared for a fight." Her Offense Armor also prevented any blood from getting on her which kept her clothes clean. She walked over to a large crate and grabbed the side of it. She ripped off the side and threw it away as she looked at the contents. Inside was a large machine with a large vial of some kind of green liquid. "I found it Takitsubo," Saiai muttered into her microphone. "What was the process of destroying them again? Takitsubo?" All she heard was static. "Damn it, we are super close and I can't even hear her on how to destroy these." Before she could decide on what to do, a loud explosion rocked the warehouse. She turned around and gasped in shock and horror.

The wall behind her was ripped apart and several nearby machines exploded from the force of the wall crushing them. A lot of fire and smoke was filling that side of the warehouse. From out of the smoke, a skinny albino youth emerged. He was completely unfazed by the smoke and fire around him. Saia could only watch as the most powerful ability user walked toward her. She was alone and there was no way she could stand up to him. For some reason he seemed annoyed as he held up a phone to his ear. "What do you mean the f$#&ing hero is at the tower?" Accelerator asked the person on the phone.

---

Motoharu, disguised as a guard, was standing in the corner of the Yanadem Tower's ballroom waiting for the auction to begin. He saw something that shocked even the famous double agent so much he had to do a double take. A young man and a very attractive young woman walked into the ballroom. The woman had dark hair and was clinging to the male's arm. The male's hair was slicked back, but Motoharu was sure he recognized the face. When he looked at the girl closer he recognized her as the fourth rank level 5, Shizuri Mugino. "Is that really Kami-yan?" he muttered to himself. He didn't have much time to dwell on it as he received a message from Mitsuki Unabara.

They were part of an organization called GROUP. GROUP was formed to take care of internal affairs of Academy City's Dark Side. They have been described as a small group that exists in the underworld, working to defend the mainstream society. Motoharu looked at the message and saw Mitsuki has successfully taken on the disguise of one of the guards and was planning to try to infiltrate the storage room. GROUP had received information someone was planning to release a strain of powerful nanobots to kill a member of the board of directors. Their job was simply to neutralize the activation switch or the actual nanobots. Accelerator was taking care of the warehouse where the nanobots were supposed to be, while Motoharu and Mitsuki tried to infiltrate the tower.

Motoharu shook his head and tried to ignore Touma, but inside he was wondering what could possibly have lured him here. Does he know about the nanobots? Is that why he is with the fourth? His suspicions were confirmed when they left right after the auction item that held the disguised switch was presented. He left the ball room and called Accelerator. "Where are you on your end?" he asked.

"About to enter the area with the warehouse," Accelerator reported. "Hang on, there are a couple guys with guns. I'll call you back." The line went dead and Motoharu sighed. He waited for a bit wondering what was taking Accelerator so long when he received a message from Mitsuki. They had some mind reading ability user and discovered his disguise. Shit, he thought to himself. It would have been a lot easier for them if they could kill the guards, but they were told most of the guards were just innocent people who had nothing to do with the dark side of Academy City. They were simply acting as guards for a lot of wealthy individuals. Motoharu couldn't go up to the storage area to help out because all the guards had been notified to find the intruder. He would be label suspicious if he went up there now. He trusted Mitsuki could conceal himself. Finally, Accelerator called back.

"Yea," he said annoyed. "There were some issues with a couple snipers hiding and avoiding my reflection. It's taken care of."

"That's good," Motoharu said. "I got some bad news on our end though. There is a lot more security, including some mind reading that makes stealth almost impossible."

"Well as long as I take care of my job it's all good right," Accelerator asked. Motoharu heard the sound of ripping metal and a couple explosions.

"I'll leave it to you," Motoharu said then he smirked slightly. "Oh, funny thing, it seems like Touma Kamijou is in at the tower."

"What do you mean the F$#&ing hero is at the tower?" Accelerator asked.

"It seems he is on a date with the fourth rank level 5," Motoharu said snickering. "Complete your side and head back. I'm going to make sure there is nothing left I can do on this side." He hung up as Accelerator tried to reply and he walked toward an abandoned security room on the first floor. There he pulled out a laptop from a hidden compartment and opened it. He was monitoring several cameras. When he came to scout out the location the day before, he found those cameras hidden on the floor. But whoever set them up had either been careless or just plain stupid. They were complete unguarded without any security locks on them, so he was able to access them via Wi-Fi. Let's see what's happening.

---

"What the hell?" mumbled Accelerator as Motoharu hung up. There's no way the hero could be on a simple date in that place at this time. He must know about the nanobots. He looked up and saw a small girl with a fluffy dress that reached down to her thigh. "Well look who it is. You look familiar. Aren't you a friend of the fourth rate and the hero?"

"W-what are you doing here?" Saiai asked nervously taking a step back. She was strong, but standing up to a monster like Accelerator wasn't something she could do and live. She felt nothing but fear and shivers went down her spine.

"Oh come on," he said smirking. "You can't be that stupid. I'm probably after the same exact thing as you. Now why don't you be a good brat and step away from those nanobots."

"Yea right," Saiai said. She knew Accelerator got injured a while back so he was weaker than before. She had to take the risk if she was to succeed in her mission and not get killed by Shizuri for being a coward. Fight or flight was her only options and neither would end well for her. She suddenly charged Accelerator. "I'll just take you down here and finish my mission."

Accelerator yawned and simple tapped the incoming girl. Saiai flew backwards and crashed into the wall leaving a good human size dent in the wall. Saiai had a small body and even with her Offense Armor, a strong blow could still knock her back, but with Accelerator it was different. He could manipulate vectors, so even the smallest tap would send her flying if he wished it. What surprised her was she was still alive. Accelerator could kill with a single hit. She groaned slightly from the force of the wall hitting her and stood back up. "Why did you keep me alive?"

"No particular reason," Accelerator said as he operated the machine with the nanobots. "You know the hero so I decided to spare your life for being stupid enough to think you can challenge me. I won't be generous a second time. If you attack me again, I WILL kill you." He flipped a couple switches and the green vile in the machine turned orange. While what he said was true, nowadays he tried to avoid killing if he could help it. The stupid hero is rubbing off on me and making my life more difficult.

Saiai could feel the truth behind his words. They were not a threat, but a simple fact of what would happen if she attacked him. He's such a monster. After a single blow I'm frozen in fear. "What are you planning to do with the nanobots?" she finally asked.

"Are you blind," he asked with his back turned. "I'm destroying them." The vile turned red and started to bubble. "Let's see," he muttered. "I overloaded it, changed the composition of the liquid, so self-destruction should occur in thirty seconds." He sighed and pushed another couple buttons and several lights began to flash. "If you value your life, you should leave. This machine is about to blow right after the nanobots self-destruct. But if you want to stay, I won't force you." He laughed as he left the warehouse.

Saiai was completely confused, but managed to grab hold of her senses and rush out of the building before the machine exploded and collapsed half of the warehouse. She didn't waste any time and headed for the rendezvous point with Rikou. "What an asshole," she muttered but she still remembered the shivers she felt when he glared at her. He at least completed my mission for me and his glare was super hot. She found Rikou and waved.

"I saw your AIM fields clash," Rikou said. "Are you alright?"

"Yea," Saiai nodded. "For some reason he was doing the same thing we were. I think he knew Kamijou was at the tower too. Well let's head back. If we are too late Mugino is going to get mad." Rikou nodded and they headed back to their safe house.

---

Touma, Frenda and Shizuri had arrived back at the safe house first. Shizuri let Touma use their bathroom so he could change back to his school uniform before she and Frenda took their turn. He had time to remove the gel from his hair and it was back to being spikey. They had just finished changing back into their normal clothes when Saiai and Rikou arrived. Shizuri looked up from the couch. "Well?"

"We were interrupted," Saiai said shaking her head. "Accelerator arrived at the warehouse, but it seemed like he had the same objective we did."

"Accelerator?" Touma asked surprised. "How did he know?" He reached down and looked at his phone, He had turned it off before entering the tower, but the only messages were from Motoharu, Jason, Mikoto, and Misaki.

"Who knows?" Shizuri said. "Doesn't matter anyways, the job is done and that it all that matters."

"So how did Kamijou do," Saiai asked turning to Frenda. "Did he super make your heart flutter at his usefulness?"

"Shut up," Frenda cried. "Basically, he did fine from what I saw, but you should ask Mugino. She was with him longer."

"He's too noble," Shizuri said disinterestedly. "Other than that he did fine. He took down an ability user who managed to surprise me so he was definitely worth bringing. We got the switch, but it didn't really matter with the nanobots gone."

"I wasn't going to let you kill someone who was no longer a threat," Touma said angrily. "You took care of it without killing."

"It was still a waste of time," Shizuri said glaring at him. "In our line of work, a second could mean life or death. Would saving one person and allowing countless others die be acceptable to you?"

"I'll just have to save everyone," Touma said clenching a fist. Saiai and Frenda both sighed at his words.

"There you are super playing the hero," Saiai added. "You are just talk."

"Basically," Frenda said shaking her head but smile slightly. "You want to do the impossible."

"Maybe not," Shizuri muttered causing several heads to turn to her. "He saved me without a moment's hesitation after I made a stupid mistake. He definitely is not all talk." Touma was shocked. That was the first time Shizuri actually paid him a straightforward compliment. "Anyway Kamijou," she said turning to him. "We don't need you anymore tonight. Leave the dress clothes here in case we have another need for you again."

"Yes," Touma said sighing in relief. He was finally free to go. While he was surrounded by attractive girls, they had some issues he wasn't ecstatic to be around. He got up quickly and almost ran out of the door.

Shizuri watched him leave and frowned slightly. He was definitely useful to her. After being dragged suddenly into the darkness, he not only exceled, he managed to keep the light in his eyes. If I had met someone like him earlier, would I have traveled so deep into the dark side? Her heart started to beat fast again and it annoyed her because she felt weird. It can't be. She glanced at Frenda who had also watched Touma leave and was blushing slightly. Saiai and Rikou had gotten drinks and turned on the TV. Shizuri glanced at them and noticed something on the table.

"That idiot forgot his cellphone," Shizuri snapped. "Frenda, return it to him. How could he be so stupid? What if we need to contact him again?"

"Yes Mugino!" Frenda said standing up quickly and grabbing the phone. "I'll be right back," she said as she dashed out the door. Shizuri sighed and looked out the window. Her eyes narrowed when she saw a group of girls walking near the building.

---

Touma walked down the stairs thinking back to what happened. If what Shizuri told him was true, missions where they had to kill were the usual for them. Touma did not like it and would always try to save others, even if they were an enemy, but he knew everyone else could not do that. He wished they could leave the dark side and if they ever needed help, he would be there for them. He was glad he could show they would be able succeed even without violence. He opened the door at the bottom of the apartments and walked out into the street. He did not expect what was about to happen.

"Touma?" two voices asked. Touma recognized both of them.

"Ape?" a third voice asked. He recognized the third one too and he felt his stomach drop.

He turned to see Mikoto, Misaki, and Kuroko. He was surprised to see Mikoto and Misaki together, because they did not get along very well. Kuroko on the other hand seemed to be walking between them. He wasn't exactly sure why they were here, but he realized the circumstances could have been much worse. They could have seen him with Shizuri. They all seem to have issues when they meet. Do all of the level 5s have to be so aggressive to each other, even Gunha likes to fight. "Uh hi," he said nervously.

"What are you doing here?" Mikoto asks curiously looking up at the apartment complex.

"You can't be thinking of living here?" Misaki asked excitedly. "It would give us a lot more private time." Mikoto gave her a glare.

"There's no way the ape can live here," Kuroko said crossing her arms. "Someone like him has to live in a small run down room."

"Don't be rude Shirai-san," Misaki said. "I won't introduce you to Kamiko-san if you act like that to Touma." Touma frowned slightly at this and Mikoto just looked like she had given up.

"Ack," Kuroko's voice got stuck in her throat and she glared at Touma but didn't say anything else.

"So what are you doing here?" Mikoto asked again. "This is a pretty high class area. You normally don't hang out here."

"I…. was just helping out a friend," Touma replied after a moment of hesitation. The pause was not lost on the girls as all three of them caught it. Kuroko raised an eyebrow and Mikoto and Misaki stared at him as if trying to see through his words. "What? I was told they needed help so I helped them. Why do you all looking at me like I did something wrong?"

"That's so like you Touma," Misaki said smiling. "Of course I believe you."

Mikoto shook her head then grinned. "So you planning to get stuck with remedial classes during Golden Week since you aren't going to study?" Kuroko snickered.

"Don't remind me," Touma cried as crocodile tears fell. "I'm heading home now to get an hour or so of studying for tomorrow. So I really need to get going if I don't want to repeat this…" His words were cut short when someone opened the door behind him.

"Hey Kamijou," Frenda said. "You forgot your ph…" She stopped short when she saw who was talking to Touma. "AH! What are you doing here?" she asked pointing to Mikoto.

"I was in the area," Mikoto said glaring at Frenda. Mikoto did not like her because Frenda had once tried to kill her along with Shizuri. However, her anger right now was targeting someone different. "So Touma, the friend you were helping out…?" She was beginning to radiate a dark aura.

"See onee-sama," Kuroko said pointing. "I told you he's no good and a player."

"Well, well," Misaki said placing her hand on her cheek as if she was thinking, but there was definitely a dark aura radiating around her too. "Would you care to explain this Touma?" She smiled, but it was a strained smile Touma was unused to seeing on her.

Touma sighed and his instincts told him he was not going to get out of this easily. "I told you, I had to help someone. Nothing else happened."

"That's not nice Kamijou," a cold female voice said from behind him and his blood froze. The voice was angry, but it was a controlled anger that put even more fear into him. Mikoto's and Misaki's eyes widened in shock while Kuroko, who only met the girl in passing once, did not know who she was, but she sensed the danger immediately. "After all we went through tonight, you still say that."

""Touma!" Mikoto yelled at him as she started sparking. "What is she talking about!?"

"You really should explain," Misaki said almost as coldly as Shizuri. She reached into her bag. "I would hate to be forced to read this girls mind and possibly over extend my power."

Kuroko looked at both Mikoto and Misaki, who were suddenly furious, and asked. "Who is she?"

"Shizuri Mugino," Mikoto said not taking her eyes off Touma and Shizuri. "Also known as the number 4, Meltdowner."

"What?" Kuroko asked shocked. How many of the level 5s does this ape know?"

"Don't say stuff that leads to misunderstandings!" Touma shouted at Shizuri as she walked out of the building until she was next to him.

"M-Mugino?" Frenda asked. 'What are you doing out here?"

"I was seeing what was taking you so long," Shizuri said glaring at her and Frenda paled. "I see you found the third and fifth rate again."

"What did you do to Touma?" Mikoto asked angrily. Shizuri just glanced at her and smirked.

"Tell us," Misaki said raising a remote. "Or I'll force it out of her." She pointed to Frenda.

"Just try it," Frenda said reaching under her skirt and pulling out several handheld missiles. Kuroko realized the danger and pulled out her spikes.

"Stop!" she shouted. "I'm part of Judgment. I will take you all in if you start fighting here, even you onee-sama."

"I would like to see you try," Frenda replied her hands still on the missiles.

"Kuroko it's dangerous," Mikoto said not keeping her eyes off Shizuri. "You should step back. This fight could get ugly." Damn it, I don't know how many of her people are in that building. She knew when level 5s started fighting, there ended up being a lot of collateral damage.

"Onee-sama," Kuroko began. "As part of Judge…" She was interrupted as several green orbs appeared next to Shizuri.

"If you want a fight," she said half laughing and half in anger. "I'll be more than happy to oblige." Shizuri saw Mikoto tense up, then she felt a hand grab her wrist and the green orbs immediately disappeared. She looked at Touma as he kept a firm grip on her. "What the f%&^ are you doing?"

"Stop!" Touma said, half shouting to indicate he was talking to all of them. "There is no reason to fight." Mikoto, Misaki, and Frenda both gave him a look. When he shouted, he seemed to radiate an aura of command. Mikoto stopped sparking as she stared at him with a slightly red face knowing she acted childish in front of the guy she liked. Misaki lowered her remote as she looked at the most important person in her life. Frenda couldn't believe Touma suddenly acted like that. She was use to a much tamer guy, but now he was the person who only showed his true colors in hostile situations. When she saw Mikoto and Misaki no longer in fighting stances, she lowered her handheld missiles and looked at Mugino.

Shizuri was conflicted. She hated Mikoto, the Railgun, for many reasons, beating her, ruining a mission, and, worst of all, being a higher level than her and being just a brat. As for the girl known as Mental Out, she just didn't like her personality. All were good enough reasons to get rid of them if she had to, but for some reason she stopped. Not just because Touma was canceling her power, but for some reason she did not want him to hate her. What the f$*^ is with that thought. Who cares what he thinks? She sighed under her breath. "Fine," she growled looking at Touma and pulling her wrist out of his grip.

"So what were you doing with him?" Mikoto asked finally beginning to use her words again instead of preparing for a fight. Now she was actually curious as to what Touma was doing with her. She had to bully him into helping her. Ah no, that idiot probably volunteered to help her without even knowing what she was doing.

"I told you," Touma said exasperatedly. "I was just lending her a hand with something important."

"That is true," Shizuri admitted. Misaki and Mikoto raised an eyebrow and looked at her skeptically. Frenda and Kuroko were confused at this surprising turn of events. Shizuri immediately felt annoyed at their looks of disbelief. "Don't give me that look brats," she snapped. "I needed a guy to help me with something and he was available. But that reminds me." She suddenly thought of something deviously evil. It would cause both the third and fifth pain and it would repay her debt. "That reminds me, I forgot to pay him for his help." She grabbed Touma's shoulders.

"What are y.,,?" Touma started to say but was quickly muffled.

Shizuri had just learned in and gave him a deep passionate kiss, on the mouth, right in front of everyone.

"M-MUGINO!" Frenda cried. Not only was she surprised but she was also upset Shizuri kissed the guy she liked, though she would never admit that. Mikoto, Misaki, and Kuroko were all staring at them with their mouths opened as their jaws hit the floor. All of them looked like they had been hit over the head with a club. None of them expected that with what they knew about Shizuri.

The kiss didn't last very long before Shizuri pulled herself away from Touma. "Come on Frenda," she called out as she walked back to the building. After a moment of hesitation, Frenda rushed after her. Frenda was trying to think of what she could possibly say to Shizuri when they were back in their private room. Shizuri didn't glance back once before entering the building, but she felt weird again. It was an odd combination of accomplishment at hurting Mikoto and Misaki, but it was also mixed with happiness. She frowned at the weird feeling of pure happiness that surpassed the time she beat several losers into bloody pulps to relieve all her stress. There is something about that guy.

Back in front of the apartments, Mikoto and Misaki were not amused. "TOOOOUUUMMMAAAA!" They both called out in anger and surprise. Kuroko was still shocked that anyone could like the ape that much.

Touma shook his head and snapped out of it as he realized the danger. He had been completely thrown off guard when Shizuri ambushed him. He only had one thought pass through his mind as she kissed him.

She's using tongue.

He was surprised at how good she was at French kissing. It had felt really good and he had to shake his head again to clear away those thoughts. "It wasn't my fault," he said as he slowly started to back away from them.

"Touma," Misaki said, and then she jumped at him. "If you wanted a kiss so bad all you have to do is ask. I'll do it anytime. Let me wipe away the taste of hag." Touma suddenly had Misaki wrap her arms around him and she also kissed him deeply. He was once again stunned by the turn of events. Misaki stopped the kiss and pulled her head back looking up at him and smiling at his surprise look. "See, I'm better then she is."

Crackle.

They both turned to look at Mikoto beginning to crackle with electricity. Her face was bright red with embarrassment and anger. Kuroko was smart enough to teleport several feet away to avoid getting shock. She had a smug look on her face as she glanced at Touma. Touma felt like he could read her mind, you are going to die. Misaki noticed the danger and spun around Touma and hid behind him as a bolt of electricity flew at them. It disappeared with the sound of breaking glass as Touma held out his hand. "Why don't you listen to me Mikoto!" he yelled at her.

"Shut up idiot!" she cried. "You are always flirting with other girls."

"I don't even know how to flirt!"

"IDIOT!" she yelled again and ran at him. She knew he would just block her electricity, but she was so angry she wanted to hit him just once. She was blinded by rage and tripped when she was almost within striking distance of him. Her last clear vision was Touma moving forward and reaching out his arm while crouching slightly. She closed her eyes and felt her body crash into his and they both fell with her on top of him. She felt something on her lips and opened her eyes.

Her eyes were staring right into Touma's as their lips were pressed firmly together.

"Oh my Misaka-san," Misaki said feigning ignorance at the situation. "How unromantic for a first kiss."

A dark aura full of rage and murderous exploded near them as Kuroko started walking toward them with her spikes out. The aura was clearly visible. "AAAAAAAAAAAPPPPPPPEEEEEEEEEE!" she cried out in pure anger. "How dare you defile onee-sama's perfect lips? Even I haven't… only I can touch them. Must. Kill." She was prepared to teleport those spikes into every place on his body.

Touma had tried to catch Mikoto when he realized she was falling. He knew she was mad at him, but part of him felt like it was his fault for not explaining himself better. He still couldn't let her get hurt. He managed to position himself under her in time as she fell on top of him. He did not expect for her to lay on top of him with her lips pressed against his. He could also feel her chest pushing down on his as he stared into her eyes. He saw a combination of confusion and sadness in her eyes and his heart hurt. Then he saw her face change from anger red to embarrassed red. Storm clouds began to gather as he heard Kuroko walking toward them. His heart sank.

Such misfortune.

Part of Academy City was wrecked by another enormous thunderstorm and many areas lost power, including Shizuri's apartment. She was not amused.

---

Jason: Achievement unlocked: Triple Level 5.

Motoharu: I'm so proud of him.

Accelerator: Even though he did it by accident, it's still impressive.

Motoharu: Speaking of impressive, I see you got a fan in this chapter.

Accelerator: Huh? You mean that girl in the fluffy dress?

Motoharu: Yep.

Accelerator: I rather date Musujime.

Jason: I thought she was your girlfriend?

Awaki: They don't know me yet, but there is no way I would date him.

Accelerator: She's a shotacon, so watch out Jason.

Jason: *shiver*

So I feel this was a good opening chapter for season 2. There are lots of fun adventures ahead for everyone. Feel free to leave a review, comment, suggestions, or idea. I love reading them.