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.)

101. S5 Reunion

You guys are so lucky August is the next month and not April. If it was, I would have posted a short note saying I was going to discontinue this story as an April Fool's joke. I was going to see what kind of comments that announcement would have given before I uploaded the real chapter. I was sure the hate would be interesting to read due to the fact Othinus just made an appearance.

Anyway, back to the main topic on hand. Season 5 had begun. It has been almost a month sense last chapter, so I hope this was worth the wait. Nothing like a nice long chapter to open a new arc, right? The Australia arc is finally done and everyone is going to be reunited. That took longer than I planned, but I feel it was worth the effort. This next Season will focus heavily with issues within Academy City and resolve some lose ends, while another group enters the fray to cause even more problems. Two things I noticed people really liked last chapter were Othinus showing up and Accelerator getting the talk. I suppose both could be important, somehow. As for the story progress, when I originally thought of this story, it was only going to be five seasons. Now, I'm looking at a minimum of seven, but I think eight is more likely. So with a haphazard guess, this story has passed the halfway point. All good things have to end sometime. Adding more for the sake of only extending the story can easily ruin it. There is still plenty of time and excitement ahead before then, so everyone who has continued this far, prepare for a lot more. Also, thank you for sticking around and commenting. I really like the fact I can return the favor by letting others enjoy what I write, because of how much I enjoy what others have written. One final note, due to budget issues, the next could chapters will have advertisement. You may be able to scroll down, but without your support, there will only be more. Kuroneko Ice Cream is our main sponsor.

MrQuestionMark: Huh, who is this guy? Couldn't be that one guy who writes ACUL0. He doesn't comment much unless I hit a milestone…. Oh. Last chapter was my 100th, so it all makes sense. I knew you would like Othinus finally arriving. I have quite a few ideas involving her in this AU line. Australians watch anime. What do you think a bored magic god does? She turns on Hulu and watches TV shows.

Mizericordia: When I started this story, I told myself not to half-ass it. This was never planned to be a short story, but finding the time to write can be a challenge. If you enjoy what you make though, it never feels like work. Aleister makes other people do most of the work, he only steps in when he has to. Not sure what will be worse for Touma. Othinus, Carissa, or his mom showing up. Imouto is fun to write and can easily cause other people to be forced to take action with her bluntness. As for Kakine, there is a clue in this chapter about his fate. I figure people take the time to comment on a story, I could give out some kind of acknowledgement I read them. Some chapters, it has gotten a little longer with the number of reviews.

321jaz: Conversations are touch. Hard to make them flow smoothly and not machine like. Still a few chapters from seeing Thor in action. A couple other issues have to be resolved first. Dang it… you just mentions on what Jason was going to do soon. Blood rituals in NT18 solidified his magic.

general ironox: Funny enough, they had more serious conversations this chapter instead of the video. It will pop up soon enough. Poor Accelerator. The talk is pretty rough. I'm toying with her walking in and announcing Touma got her pregnant, just to write everyone's reaction.

wildarms13: End of a season can resolve a lot of issues, but also a perfect opportunity to add some foreshadowing of future seasons.

Agent Nine: Now I wish I had written something like that. Maybe if Motoharu finds out he can make that joke. I'm not going to do the infinite hells, but there will be a challenge of some kind. Touma has changed from canon and thus, needs something more unique for him. But you should remember, Index is actually a battle series, it's just a lot of people like to focus on the slice of life and relationship aspects.

Whwsms: Accelerator's talk will be heard by the incarnation of evil… Worst. Everyone will learn about it soon enough. Shizuri will never let him live it down. No, it would be funnier if they trick Komoe sensei into giving Touma the talk. Or maybe have her explain it to the class due to all the relationships forming. Well, the maid does have some ties to a few important people in Academy City, so it only made sense and it gives me flexibility in the future. When I researched that snake goddess, I realized she was going to play a big role in this story.

naruhinasakufan1: My friends and I bond the same way. Someone is nice, someone is rational, and the rest of us insult each other. Seems like everyone loves Othinus. Sometimes you need a goddess in your harem to get really kinky.

Destati69: All at once? That must have been fun.

Guest: 1) It was fine, I might change a few if I do the omake, but overall it was interesting. 2) Probably missed it. 3) I could. 4) Othinus is aware of gods, but that remains to be seen. 5) M rated? Hah. We are talking about XXX rated with every fetish. 6) She tried a couple times, but Touma kept breaking it.

The Wolf Paladin: I started the story before I reached Othinus in the LNs, so I had to wait for a good opportunity to add her. Things will change because Touma is not the same person as he is in canon due to previous events.

Cyber dragonarmy: If his organs still work, donate them to a hospital. There might be some kids who need them.

Anon Guest: I have to say she's hot for him. Not only cause he could resist her, but because of his unique situations with thousands of relationships. Your idea would cause the world to divide into two groups. They will be 'The Way of the Tou-Man' vs the 'Church of Skirt Flipping.'

Salishious: Omg, Smuggle-chan can totally tell Mikoto and Misaki about hers and Othinus' relationships. Proving BFFs are the same, no matter how strong you are. Oh, there is lots of misfortune for our hero. We finally see him again in this chapter, and a sneak preview at what is about to happen to the poor boy. Elizard talking to Touma's parents, that would be great.

GameCguru: The game show has been made already by someone. It's called Total Drama Harem and HAS NOT BEEN UPDATED RECENTLY! I hope he sees this.

Guest13: I hope Touma has legendary endurance. He will need it.

Lord Bamus: What's the top ten on your list?

Guest00: What to do. Drink heavily and pretend I never read it? Haha. I did it for a bit, but kind of lost interest. Now the space is reserved for advertisement. Maybe I'll bring it back after someone becomes an important character in a chapter and give them a chance to answer questions after that.

Chris: Eve is still kicking, but everything you referenced is going to happen.

Tardis42: That will be explained this chapter. Touma might not connect the dots anytime soon. He and his friends escaped unharmed, so I doubt that will be the first thing he wants to ask about.

RPGPersona: The issue with Kuroko was she could teleport away in an instant if she didn't want to be somewhere. Unless you keep her knocked out or mind controlled, which Mikoto would definitely not want. Mikoto and Kuroko have gone through some important stuff here. Accelerator's situation was my favorite part too. Takitsubo will have a couple opportunities for some interesting bonding with Shiage. I'm sure Jason can treat a girl sneaking into his bed in a more professional way than Touma. Remember, when in trouble, blame Kami. Julunggul's purpose is a little more complicated than just joining a harem.

xaxiel1572: A wild Othinus appears. I hope you have a master ball handy.

Handsomistic1: 1) Ew, that seems like a lot of work on my part. I suppose I could try I suppose. Give me some time and I might do it. Or I will leave it to a reader who is kind enough to do it for me. 2) Definitely. 3) She has fangs, so probably.

Generation Zero: There's still the final outcome of the level 5 involvement though. Jason works for the city, so he does what they make him do, on his own terms as much as possible. After Othinus arrived, Thor does seem to be the person people like to reference. Who wouldn't like a girly guy with electrical abilities that could overwhelm the Railgun. In the LN, the gods have mentioned what happens to the mortal realm when they accidently release some of their power. They create special objects like magic mirrors. It warps the world, even if they don't mean to. By restricting their power in different ways, it's the only way they can prevent that. The reason I dislike Kamisato and the WR is that he was too powerful and we missed out on so many cool gods.

Jujudude: They have to see Saten flip skirts first. You gave me an awesome idea for Thor, Snuggle-chan, Touma, and Othinus. Can't say anymore though. As for Touma's mom, he is going to meet one special girl first and cause a huge misunderstanding. The girls will start taking more drastic steps in this season. Why does everyone want Kamiko to reappear? It was supposed to be a funny joke, not a constant reoccurring theme. Yuna would be a good choice to win the day with Kami. But don't forget, after this weekend, next weekend is the other half of the schools festivals and they are sure to invite Kami. Rejoice, for this chapter is long.

FrodoFighter: I feel you write these long comments to make me respond. Poor Jason, I feel like you think he's up to something bad. A lot of magicians tend to understand other branches of magic, even if they can't get into details. The theme for Eve's group is it doesn't have to be based on religion. Gives me a lot to work with. Because Jason would still have feels for them if she used her magic on them like that and he could try to cure them. Dead is dead. No, Misaki was right. Mikoto is the most adorable drunk. Accelerator is a nice guy now. No more random destruction. They have way too much fun with Accelerator. "A girl wearing a boy's clothing is kinda similar to a conquered fortress which has your flag on top of it." Best line you have ever given me. If you put Adam in concrete and let's say he did not have to breath, his magic would cause the concreate to decay. Death takes even the strongest material. Nothing natural lasts forever. Thor is a fun character to use when you want someone to fight. As for the goddess sleepover, it turns out Ling-Ling was the life of the party.

Geust's Account: What? Of course they mix. You won't hold back when drunk. I don't know. I haven't felt like doing them, but someone else asked about them. I'll think about it once our budget is solid.

UltimatebadassOVERLORDsayan: Well, I think it actually exists outside of what we understand as sexes. Trying to rationalize it as male or female is too closed minded. However, it would probably transform into a girl if it was trying to get close to Touma. Yandere might not fit it, since it wouldn't act sweet and suddenly go crazy. It would be obvious it would strike anyone who approaches it. It would transform into a boy if it just wanted to learn about the world. This is not counting the other dragon heads.

Simmering Teapot: Huh, you reached the chapter the same day I'm preparing to update. Thor should be worried if he annoys Snuggle-chan when she's flirting with Touma. Kongo Mitsuko shall return, because she is such a great friend of Touma Kamijou. She needs a fake date at some point to impress her friends, like Kuroko. Eve will do stuff too. She's a hard worker, but still makes time for fun.

Disclaimer: Random people do not own Toaru Majutsu no Index or any of the characters. Reading this story may cause you to burst out in laughter or start yelling at fictional characters. This may cause nearby people to assume you have gone crazy. Please read responsibly.

---

Kuroko turned over on the bed and tried to ignore the bright light that seemed to fall directly on her face.

The sun never hits my face in the morning, Kuroko thought to herself and pulled the covers over her head. Suddenly, it dawned on her. Everything that happened last night flooded into her mind. Her feelings, running from Mikoto, finding Jason, spending the night, and there was even a foggy memory of getting up in the middle of the night. Her eyes shot open and she froze. Please tell me that last part was a dream. She didn't see anyone else under the covers and sighed, before sitting up. She blinked and found herself in the main room on the pullout couch. The robe she was wearing started to fall off and she quickly tightened it. However, Jason was nowhere to be seen. The only sign he must still have been there was a kettle of water sat boiling on the stove. Her head still hurt slightly and embarrassment welled up within her at the thought of sneaking into Jason's bed, but otherwise she felt like she had a restful night's sleep. She scooted over to the side of the bed and was just about to get up, when she heard Jason's voice.

"…not a good time," he said frustrated and Kuroko leaned toward the sound. He was in the bathroom, but the door was cracked. "Okay, I know that already, but I have something else to take care of… no, I know this is important, but… Dang it, listen to me. Why do I have to be there?" There was a long pause as Kuroko watched him step out. He didn't glance over at her, being too focused on the person at the other end of the line. "You think I can control them? Just because I know… No, I swear I will do everything in my power to see you b… Good, as long as you know." Jason hung up and threw the phone into a chair. He was looking more peeved than Kuroko could remember seeing him, outside of a fight.

"Something wrong?" she asked. She gave an involuntary chuckle, as Jason jumped in surprise. He had forgotten she was there.

"So many things," he groaned and walked into the kitchen, before rummaging around for a mug. "Good chunk of the city has been destroyed because of Eve's minion's fight with several level 5s and the cities forces. Now, someone at top wants to blame it all on our friends."

"Why?" Kuroko asked confused, ignoring the angry voice in the back of her mind telling her Mikoto deserved it. Misaki, Accelerator, and probably Mugino had to have been involved somehow.

"Academy City can track AIM fields," Jason explained. "From their end, all the destruction was in the same locations as the level 5s. Besides my boss witnessing a fight personally, the others only have one capable person. Some people at the top want to blame them for everything. That means they could all be locked away indefinitely. Do you think someone like Accelerator or Mugino is going to accept that?"

"They would fight back and only solidify those views," Kuroko whispered.

"Exactly," Jason agreed. "Now, I'm expected to go and figure out what happened, which we both know what occurred, but those idiots don't, and try to do some damage control. Worst of all, they expect me there ASAP, which interferes with what I was planning to do today."

"What was that?" Kuroko asked. She wasn't used to seeing Jason so irritable, but she supposed after last night, the work he would be expected to do was probably pretty intense.

"I wanted to take you to Index so she could help you, but I can't reach her and now there's no time to drive in the opposite direction from where I need to go. Someone will be here in twenty minutes to pick me up and I was warned by my superior to be there, regardless." He banged his head on the counter. "I hate them all so much."

"Is… is there anything I can do to help?" Kuroko asked tentatively.

"Not unless you want to come and take notes for me," Jason mumbled sarcastically, still not lifting his head up. Making breakfast was all but forgotten. Kuroko tilted her head and stared at him for a moment.

"Okay." A moment of silence passed and Jason tilted his head to look at her out of one eye.

"…What?"

"You said last night there might be side effects of Juliet's magic," Kuroko pointed out. "So you wanted me nearby in case something happened. If we can't reach Index, than I have to go with you." She actually had an ulterior motive. Kuroko wanted to learn more about Jason, so she figured why not start now. She also enjoyed spending time with him, but she wouldn't tell him that. "My writing is also clear and legible, so my note taking should not be a problem. Some of my teachers are… not the most exciting individuals, thus you won't have to worry about me falling asleep if the meeting is dull."

"There's going to be classified information," Jason pointed out.

"I'm part of Judgment," Kuroko refuted. "I'm used to keeping certain things quiet." Jason blinked and a small smile formed on his face.

"When did you get so good at arguing?" he asked.

"Hanging around with you and those idiots you consider friends," Kuroko replied with a smirk and crossed her arms. Jason straightened up and stared intently at her for a moment. He's actually considering it. She was surprised when he sighed and shook his head.

"Sorry," he told her. "I can't let you."

"Why not?!" she demanded.

"Because," Jason stated. "There will most likely be a lot of higher-ups there. If you show up, you will be recognized and there is no doubt some people will try to make your life living hell. I won't allow that."

"Maybe I don't care."

"Well, I do." Kuroko's cheeks flushed, but she stared determinedly at him. "I do a lot to make sure none of them bother Kazari. Given a chance, people would try to use her to get to me, and she's not even involved in my work. Imagine what would happen if you showed up to this meeting." Kuroko frowned, his words made sense, but she knew him better than that. If he wanted to do something, he could make it happen.

"Couldn't you… disguise me or something?" Kuroko asked. "You guys do it to the ape all the time."

"You are really adamant about this," Jason answered after a moment. "Aren't you?"

"I can be stubborn too," she replied with a grin.

"Why?"

"What do you mean why?"

"Why do you want to help me so much? You know I would find a way to solve this myself."

"Because-…" Kuroko replied, but stopped herself. What should I say? That I like him? It's not a good time, but he can be just as stubborn. "You need to accept when one of your friends are trying to help! You always complain about work, so you should be jumping at the chance to share the burden." Jason opened his mouth, but Kuroko cut him off. "No buts, just accept it. You did so much for me yesterday and I want to help you with this. Not just as a repayment, but because you are my friend." Jason opened his mouth again, shut it, and then rubbed his face. Hah, she thought triumphantly. He rarely was ever rendered speechless.

"Alright," he relented and walked over to where his phone was resting. "Give me a moment." Kuroko smirked smugly as she watched him dial. "Kat, I have a favor to ask you." Kuroko could swear she saw a vein twitch in his head. "Yes, fine, I'll buy you two since this is none work related. You know Kuroko Shirai?" Kuroko frowned, because she didn't know anyone named Kat. "Don't give me that, I know you spy on me when you're bored." Kuroko's eyes widened. "Do you think you could get her a disguise so she could take notes for me at a meeting without attracting attention?" There was a long pause while the person on the other end responded. "I'll send you the address, but I swear it better be normal. This isn't time for fun. We can embarrass her later."

"Hey!" Jason only grinned.

"Thanks," Jason told Kat. "No, I won't forget." He hung up and texted Kat the location. "Okay, she will have a disguise for you when we arrive."

"Who is Kat anyways?" Kuroko asked.

"One of the few people in my department," Jason explained with a shrug. "We just got another guy, but he's not happy and wouldn't do something non-work related for me. I have to bribe Kat with manga from a horrible genre for her to help." Kuroko raised an eyebrow. "She only reads Yaoi trash." Kuroko's face turned red. "What, are you embarrassed about that? Imagine me, who has to buy that crap for her,"

"I'm getting a picture of you buying it," Kuroko told him. "Then sending it to everyone we know."

"Then I'm releasing to the news who the Kuroneko mascot really is," Jason threatened. They stared at each other with straight faces, but both of them were struggling not to laugh. They wouldn't do anything that bad to each other. Well, Kuroko might take the picture and share it with a few friends, but it wouldn't get out. Finally, Jason broke the standoff. "Your clothes are still in the laundry room. I would advise not wearing the Tokiwadai jacket. It stands out to much. Once we meet up with Kat, you shouldn't attract attention anymore." Kuroko nodded and stood up to retrieve her clothes, when she decided it was time to apologize.

"Jason," Kuroko muttered. "Sorry I snuck into your bed last night."

"I didn't know you were a sleepwalker," Jason commented, but he diverted his eyes. "Learned something new."

"I'm not-…" Kuroko started to say and then snapped her mouth shut. Is he giving me a way out? He doesn't know I have fallen for him, so maybe he just thought it was Juliet's magic. Though, I thought it was just my feelings on her, not on everyone else. Wow, he really is giving me a way out. Maybe I should tell the truth instead. She couldn't bring herself to confess yet. It wasn't like her. She had always been honest with her feelings, but this was something more. It wasn't the right time and she had to talk to Kazari first. "I was out of it yesterday," Kuroko admitted. "The stress must have caused it. I hope I didn't do anything to you."

"You were gripping my arm for a while," Jason shrugged. "But eventually let me go. Nothing big." Kuroko sighed internally, but part of her was suspicious. Jason was still not looking her in the eye. She had no way to call him out on it right now, without dying from embarrassment or causing a rift in their friendship. Instead, she said sorry one more time and went to retrieve her clothes.

One day, I will find out what happened. I have to know.

---

The ride to the meeting was uneventful.

A black SUV with tinted windows arrived to pick them up. Kuroko stared out the window while Jason talked to the driver. Instead of parking in front of a large skyscraper, they pulled around the back. Right when they stopped, the back door open and a girl with dirty blonde hair peaked out.

"Good," Jason mumbled. "As efficient as ever." He turned to Kuroko. "Get in quick and follow her. I'm going up to my office to change." Kuroko nodded and they entered the building. Jason went one way and she followed the girl, who she assumed was Kat, up the stairs. At first glance, the girl did not seem very… respectable? She obviously had bedhead with part of her hair in the back sticking up. Her clothes consisted of wearing sweatpants and a T-shirt. Kuroko flinched slightly when Kat grabbed her hand out of the blue.

"Don't let go," Kat whispered and they walked into a main hallway. Kuroko figured someone would comment on them, but no one even spared them a glance. They reached a dark office and Kat led them in. She turned the lock before flipping the light on. She then gestured for Kuroko to follow her to the closet, before she pulled the door open. "Here," Kat said and pushed a casual dress into Kuroko's hands. "Do you think this will fit?"

"It looks like it will," Kuroko nodded, holding up the blue and white dress. "Where did you get it?"

"Not important," Kat told her. "Our time is limited." She pulled open a desk drawer with a couple hair care products and a folded sheet. "Sit down, I need to dye your hair."

"Wait, wha-…?" Kuroko tried to protest, but Kat pushed her down.

"You don't want to be recognized," she pointed out and threw the sheet over Kuroko's clothes. Kat started using the dye and working it into Kuroko's long hair.

I feel like they did this to the ape, Kuroko thought, remembering all the weird colors his hair turned when he dressed as Kami. There wasn't much to do while Kat worked on her hair, so she tried to start up a conversation. "Why did no one seem to notice us when we walked by them?"

"My ability is Stealth Field," Kat answered bored. "I can't be detected by sight, sound, infer red, pretty much anything. I can extend the range to others, but it gets weaker the more people there are. One won't change much, but five is my limit. Anything passed that and up to ten is only sight."

"Sounds convenient," Kuroko commented.

"It does allow me to sneak away from some of the people Kagere has to work with," Kat said and smirked slightly.

"How long have you worked with him?"

"Not terribly long," Kat answered. "He came back to the city recently and I was tasked to help him. We don't have a lot of people in our area, so the higher-ups make him do a lot. I'm surprised he even sleeps, since he wanted to attend high school."

"Really?" Kuroko asked confused. "He always seems to complain about work, but he never let it interfere with doing anything he wanted to do."

"He is good at micromanaging his time," Kat said with a shrug. "We just got a new person, so we are showing him the ropes. Once he knows what to do, it should lighten our load."

"That's good," Kuroko mumbled. Does he really work that hard? I always called him a slacker who only pretends to work.

"Done," Kat announced and gestured to the mirror. Kuroko turned and saw her hair had been dyed black and pulled into a side ponytail. Kuroko didn't even notice her hair being styled. Kat was a master at her job. "Now, get changed. This won't give you a perfect disguise, but most people won't spare you a second glance. They will be too focused on the task at hand. You can wear heels, right?"

"Of course I can," scoffed Kuroko indignantly. She quickly changed and looked at herself in the mirror. She looked different, but she could still tell it was her and it would not hold up to anyone who scrutinized her closely. There was a knock at the door and Kat answered it.

"She's ready," Kat informed Jason, as he stepped inside. He was only wearing a white lab coat over his shirt and jeans.

"Thanks for doing this so fast," Jason said to her with a nod.

"Remember, you owe me."

"I'll get you your porn," he sighed.

"It's not porn," Kat huffed indignantly. "It's art."

"That is what they all say," Jason laughed and then turned to Kuroko. "You sure you want to do this?" he asked. "It's not too late to back out."

"I said I would help and I will," Kuroko declared. "So stop trying to make me doubt myself."

"Okay," Jason relented and handed her a tablet and a piece of paper. "Use this to write down notes. I really only need you to write down what people say. That way, I can focus on people's reactions and any evidence they show." Kuroko nodded. "The paper has a small magic circle on it to help keep your disguise. It will distort your features in other people's eyes, so you will look slightly different, but you need to keep it on you at all times." She nodded and stuck the paper into her dress. "Well, it's time to go meet those old farts who make our lives miserable." Kuroko looked around and frowned.

"Kat disappeared," she pointed out.

"Yeah," Jason acknowledged. "She does that. She will be back in time to help you get out when we are done." Kuroko nodded and felt relieved. They left the office and took the elevator to one of the top floors. The entire time, Jason kept whispering stuff to her. "Don't talk unless someone addresses you directly, but don't give more information than absolutely needed. Try to stay as inconspicuous as possible. I'll do my best to keep attention off you."

"Calm down," Kuroko told him and slapped him on the back. "It's not like you to be nervous like that."

"I'm usually not," he admitted. "But I'm not normally risking you in the process."

"Risking me? You mean them trying to use me to make you do stuff?"

"Exactly."

"I would like to see them try."

"Please, don't tempt fate. They are devious bastards." Kuroko smirked at him and Jason gave a reluctant grin. The elevator dinged and the door opened. The two of them walked down a hallway until they reached the room at the end. Jason took a deep breath and turned to Kuroko. "You are going to see a side of me I save for work, don't freak out." Kuroko rolled her eyes and he grinned. "Don't say I didn't warn you." He pushed open the door and they walked inside.

"You're late," an old man said immediately. Kuroko glanced around the room. There was only one long table with six people sitting down, two women and four men, all easily over forty. Three were on one side and two were on the other, with an empty chair, where Kuroko assumed Jason was to sit. Each place had a screen in front of them. The final man was sitting by himself on the far end of the table and was staring at Jason.

"It's not like I was woken up first thing in the morning," Jason replied amused. "Only to find out someone was incompetent in stopping large scale destruction of Academy City." Kuroko was surprised by the abrupt change in his attitude.

"We are going to discuss that right now," the man said and continued to glare at him. "Who is the girl behind you?"

"The only note taker I could find on such short notice," Jason answered with a shrug. "If you had called me last night, I would have had more time." He sat down in his chair at the table and gestured to Kuroko to sit down in a chair behind him. "Okay, so what's the huge pressing issue involving the level 5s that require me to have to be here?" Kuroko was shocked at Jason's lack of respect, but she kept her mouth shut and prepared to take notes. The man pressed a button and two screens emerged from the wall behind him. One had a picture of a destroyed park, while the other revealed a room with Accelerator, Shizuri, and Misaki.

"Last night," the man explained to everyone. "Five disturbances took place simultaneously in Academy City." The screen behind him started swapping between pictures of the park, streets, and a crater next to some train tracks. "The resulting damage has been exponential. However, even with the wide spread destruction, casualties were almost nonexistence. All civilians had mysterious left the area shortly before the fighting began."

"Did we find out why?" one of the others asked.

"Interviews did not yield much," the man acknowledged. "None of the people knew why they left, only that they did." He hit a button on his computer and the screen displaying the destruction changed. The screen now showed several people being interviewed and they all said roughly the same thing.

"I felt like I had to leave and couldn't resist."

"I thought I was late for an appointment and then remembered I didn't have one."

"I had a bad feeling when I was heading back and decided not to."

"They were obviously under the control of a mental ability," the man continued when the last interview finished. "Which leaves us to the main topic of discussion for this meeting."

"It would have to be an extremely powerful ability user," one of the women stated and her eyes flickered to the screen displaying three of the level 5s. "You think Mental Out was involved?"

"We know she was involved," the man explained. "Everyone, turn your attention to your own monitors." Kuroko noticed Jason was actually paying attention and swiping across the screen as he examined the data. "Our equipment tracked the AIM fields of the individuals at each location. Each incident had a level 5 right in the middle. Accelerator, Railgun, Mental Out, Meltdowner, and Number Seven were all involved."

I didn't know Sogiita was involved in this, Kuroko thought. Was he being targeted too? As if answering her question, the man continued.

"Number Seven was cleared of any wrongdoing already, due to his arrival in helping Academy City forces deal with a malfunctioning power suit. It seems the AI had been corrupted and started attacking anything that moved. It was one of the reasons our forces were delayed in arriving at the other locations."

"So that leaves the other four," someone muttered. "What were they doing and was anyone else involved?"

"Two other AIM fields were detected with Mental Out. They were identified as her classmates, but fluctuated and weakened slightly, indicating they had been knocked out. Accelerator had two individuals identified as electromasters, but I was informed they had been cleared due to age. The Railgun's roommate had been identified too, but again, she had been knocked out shortly after the fight escalated." Kuroko flinched slightly. "Meltdowner had her usual companions with her."

"Who were they fighting?" another person asked.

"We did not detect any AIM fields in the vicinity capable of clashing against any of the level 5s," the man answered. "Upon examination of the areas where the fight took place, we identified the unique kind of destruction each of the level 5s abilities could cause. The reason we have summoned them here is that, if we determine there is likely cause for concern about their stability, each will be isolated until further notice." Kuroko noticed Jason's face darkened.

They are not going to like that, Kuroko thought.

"Obviously, they are a threat," one of the other men said and pounded his fist on the table. "We only tolerate their destructive tendencies because of the information we can gather from them. It was only a matter of time before they snapped and attacked the city itself."

"Hold on," the older of the two women stated and turned to the man. "You can't accuse them without proof. While it's true they tend to go a little overboard, when was the last time you heard of them causing this much destruction. They are smart enough to know this would not be overlooked."

"They keep pushing the boundaries because we are too lenient," the man snapped at her. "Pardon my rudeness, but you don't deal with the cleanup. My area does. The number of reports I have to read dealing with people being electrocuted, broken bones, memory issues, along with destructions of buildings and streets is ridiculous. They have been doing holding back recently, but I knew it was only a matter of time. We need to show this will not be tolerated." All the men and women continued to argue and discuss possible repercussions for the level 5s taking part in the destruction of Academy City. The man at the end of the table answered questions and kept periodically glaring at Jason.

I see why he complains, Kuroko thought to herself as she tried to keep up with the rapid conversations. She didn't know the other people's names, so she gave them seat numbers and identified everyone by them. Jason didn't seem to be involved in the discussion, but was shifting through the photos and information on his monitor, lost in thought. He said he would take care of it, but I don't see how. Academy City doesn't believe in magic, so it's not like that excuse would work. The discussion grew more heated, but then consensus seemed to agree the level 5s had to be monitored for a while.

"Someone has been quiet," the man at the end of the table announced suddenly and everyone turned to him. "Jason Kagere, you normally would try to find a flaw in anything we discussed. Why so quiet now?"

"Just checking a few things before I show off you incompetence," Jason said smugly and hit his monitor again. Kuroko saw the man's face flash red with rage. "There we go, I'm ready. Turn your attention to the main screen." Everyone looked and he continued. "I noticed several strange patterns at the scenes of a couple of the fights, the biggest clue involved Mental Out." The picture of a crater next to the train tracks appeared. "From the map, this was where a train station had been before the fight, now it's gone. Mental Out does not have that kind of power, but I have to ask if the two people with her would be able to do this?"

"No," one of the men answered. "Neither's ability would be capable of that within the time frame. An advanced large scale explosive had to go off to remove the debris. Physically destroying the station would have left behind rubble."

"Which would be weird for Mental Out," Jason pointed out. "When has she ever used explosives like that?" The room was silent. "There was also the strange phenomenon of all the areas experiencing civilians being manipulated. She could not have been in four places at once. It would have been suspicious if it was only in her area. Because of this, I examined the other scenes for unusual signs. Accelerator's fight had the second most obvious issue." He changed the picture on the screen to the park where a giant circle of sand had formed. "He turned the ground into a sand trap. I have never seen him use his ability like that before. Look," he pointed. "There are signs of the ground being broken up by him in the background. He has done that plenty of times before, but turning dirt into sand, I can't picture how he would do that."

"Now that you mentioned it," the woman next to him said. "I suppose if he sat there and tried to use his ability to destroy the ground over and over again, it would allow something similar, but I doubt it would turn into sand as fine as that."

"It seems unusual for him," Jason continued. "He could just plow straight forward against any adversity. Next is Meltdowner's fight." The screen changed again to show a destroyed street. "This is an interesting scene. You can see where Meltdowner fire from her location here," he used a pointed to indicate the ground. "The street was melted slightly and you can see the craters in the distance. "The weird part is this line here." He highlighted a deep groove in the ground. "It's too neat and fine for one of her attacks. There are no signs of melting to indicate extreme heat." He changed to a couple other photos. "The same kind of damage is evident in other photos too. It looks more like a wind ability created a vacuum blade."

Nice, Kuroko thought, as the group continued to discuss this point of view. He didn't mention magic, but pointed out the destruction left behind are inconsistent. Once the conversation settled down, Jason moved on to the last scene.

"Not entirely sure what happened here," Jason admitted and flashed a few pictures across the scene. "There is definitely electrical damage here and a couple things have been cut, which I suppose could be done with her iron sand. The issue involves these buildings." He flipped to the last picture. "It looks like a good chunk of these buildings were disintegrated. This doesn't coincide with what the Railgun is capable of. Her railgun attack couldn't cause that kind of area damage." The conversation started again and everyone fell into agreement.

"So what do you think happened?" the man at the head of the table asked.

"I think someone initiated a simultaneous attack on them," Jason explained. "While the AI power suit was going out of control. In fact, that timing seems oddly suspicious. Wouldn't you agree?"

The room fell silent for a moment.

"There were no other AIM fields," one of the men stated. "And no remains of any machines that could have warranted a fight of that caliber. What on earth do you think could have happened?"

"It's possible some person or group is after the level 5s," Jason said flatly. Kuroko was not the only one who drew in a sharp breath. The head scientist leaned forward and looked directly at Jason.

"Who do you think could have the power to face a level 5?" he asked slowly and deliberately. "A hidden individual like Kami? Or maybe someone from outside the city?" Jason stared defiantly back at him.

"You know damn well what I mean," Jason replied curtly. "I was forced into this position for a reason. If you believe that Academy City is the only group that is working on abilities, you are a fool. America won't let Japan stay ahead of them for long and Europe has begun their own group already. I bet it's some fringe group trying to prove their abilities are superior to ours." Kuroko was behind Jason, so only she noticed. But Jason's shadow was unfurling from his pants leg and messing with the electrical wires under the table. They appeared to be connected to the intercom.

"None of those groups are anywhere near our technology," one of the other men pointed out. "It's much more likely those children decided their powers allow them do anything they want."

"That is paranoia at best," Jason dismissed casually. "Unless you have proof, then it is only speculation. Has anyone actually talked to them?" When he asked that question, he gestured to the screen. For the first time, Kuroko noticed Mikoto had arrived. She had been too focused on trying to take notes. The man Jason was talking too spluttered in indignation, but was saved by the man next to him.

"As an ability user, yourself," he said to Jason. "You understand the responsibility of your gift. Their abilities are something in a completely different league than your own. As a scientist, you understand both sides of this argument. You know how much data their gifts give us, and you know the power they wield. Any one of them could kill in an instant."

"Now they are joining forces," the previous man said.

"You guys are paranoid," Jason repeated.

"If you are going to spend so much time in their company," one of the women suggested. "Why don't you go and question them."

"Cowards," Jason laughed. "Misaka-san and Shokuhou-san are pretty harmless, unless you attack someone in front of them. Then they just incapacitate you. Accelerator is like a puppy, all bark, though if you bait him too far, you will get bitten. Okay, I will give you Mugino-san. She scares me a little too." Kuroko couldn't believe the way he was talking about Accelerator and Shizuri. Though, truth be told, they scared her a little too. They tended to be a little more violent than Mikoto and Misaki.

"If you are so confident," the head scientist said. "I order you to go and find out what happened yesterday. Get their side."

"Fine, whatever." Jason stood up and Kuroko saw his shadow retract. "Feel free to listen to make sure I don't jeopardize or betray, or whatever you think I do when you have your back turns. I know you don't trust me at all."

"Trust is earned, boy," he told Jason. "You may be intelligent and skilled, but that does not equate trust." Jason rolled his eyes and moved to leave. Kuroko was about to ask if she should stay here, but he was gone before she could say anything. One of the woman glanced at her for a second, but everyone else seemed to have turned their attention to the room watching the level 5s. Kuroko imitated them and this time, she heard some sound.

Okay, Jason. How are you going to get them out of this mess?

---

"Let's get this over with," Jason sighed in front of four of the level 5s. None of them talked much when he arrived and revealed himself. Misaki actually said hi and Mikoto gave a small wave, but Accelerator and Shizuri only glared at him. "Do you four know why you are here?"

"Nope," Accelerator denied.

"They told us nothing," Shizuri snapped.

"Sadly, no," Misaki answered.

"No," Mikoto lied and shook her head.

"Well," Jason continued. "I figured as much." A smirk appeared on Accelerator's and Shizuri's face. He grabbed a chair, turned it around and sat down on it backwards while facing them. "Last night, at roughly the same time, the four of you were involved in some kind of altercation, which led to the destruction of several large areas in the city. What do you have to say for yourself?"

"It was Kami's fault," Accelerator replied immediately.

"Definitely his," Shizuri agreed. Misaki had to try really hard not to laugh or giggle. In some twisted way, it was the truth. Touma had been the first one to meet Eve's group and slowly dragged the others with him. Mikoto did not find the situation funny, but she was also worried about Kuroko's condition, so she didn't speak. Jason blinked in surprise.

"Ooookay?" he said and marked something down on his own tablet. "You know, I wouldn't doubt that, not with all the crazy stuff he gets involved in. It always makes more work for me." He typed a few more things. "But, for the old guys listening in on us, let's go into a little more detail." Those words were more than a light jab at the higher-ups. It was a warning that they were indeed being monitored. "What happened yesterday to warrant the destruction of the city? Before you lie and say you were not involved, the city identified your AIM fields at each location. Now, please explain what happened." The four level 5s looked at each other and nodded. They had to tell the truth, or at least part of it.

"I was attacked," Mikoto replied.

"Likewise," Misaki agreed. "And we assume Accelerator-san and Mugino-san were too." They gave a noncommittal jerk of their heads.

"Interesting," Jason muttered and tilted his head slightly. "Did you recognize these people?"

"No," Misaki answered. "It was the first time I met the guy who attacked me."

"What about the rest of you?"

"Never saw the asshole before," Accelerator muttered.

"Bastard's gone now," Shizuri added.

"The girl who attacked me was different," Mikoto finally added.

"If this is true," Jason said thoughtfully. "I need to know about the people who attacked you. What were they like? What did they fight you with? Was it some kind of weapon or was it an ability?" He looked at each one of them in turn, but no one volunteered. "Fine, we go in order. Accelerator, you can go first." Accelerator glared at him, but Jason only raised an eyebrow.

He knows what happened, Accelerator thought. And warned us. That means he is looking for us to say something specific. I can't mention the magic shit, but if I pretend it was an ability of some kind, it would make my actions self-defense to the city. Not that I really care, but it would save me and the brats some trouble. "Some old guy showed up and said he was sent to kill me," Accelerator said, choosing not to give a name. After all, what kind of assassin gave their name? "He had the ability to manipulate earth and plants. We fought and I won. Left a mess in our wake, but shit happens. That's it."

"Did he use any noticeable technology or was it purely an ability?"

"I did not see any technology."

"Okay," Jason said and touched his tablet. "Mugino-san, what about you?"

"Almost identical," she said. "Except that guy had the ability to swing a sword and cut everything in its path." So we are going to ability route, huh? Easily enough and I won't have people breathing down my neck. I wonder if I can get this bastard in trouble while I'm at it. "But you know this already, don't you?"

"I was briefed before coming here," Jason commented nonchalantly. "Two questions, what did he want, and when you said cut, was it like a wind blade or…?"

"He wanted to kill me and I only noticed the cut when it hit a solid object."

"Great," Jason muttered dryly. "A guy with a sword who can cut things at a distance. Shokuhou-san, you are up."

"Lovely," Misaki said sweetly. "I was at the train station with a couple of my friends and we were attacked by an adult male with blonde hair, along with several masked individuals. They assaulted us and we had no choice but to defend ourselves. During the altercation, we were forced to retreat and an explosion went off. If we had been in the station, we would have been killed. They must have cleared everyone else out, because no one came to our assistance before the explosion. Then they disappeared after that. I bet they knew the noise would attract attention."

"Thank you for being more cooperative than those two," Jason said politely. He glared at Accelerator and Shizuri, neither of who looked the least bit apologetic.

"Of course. I only want to help catch these people." Misaki immediately understood what everyone was doing. No mention of magic, check. Explain damages, check. Now hopefully Misaka will follow our example. She seems a little out of it since she arrived. Something must have happened. I'll talk to her once we are cleared. She smiled at Jason and looked innocent. All she was doing in the eyes of anyone watching was explaining how some criminals attacked her.

"I appreciate it," Jason told her and smiled. His eyes then turned to Mikoto. "Misaka-san, your turn."

"Kuroko and I were walking back to the dorms when a girl attacked us," Mikoto said slowly. She was not as skilled as the others in omitting information, but she at least had examples to follow. Her conversation with Jason last night helped too. He wants enough information to help clear us, so I have to make sure not to incriminate us in any way. "The girl only said she wanted to kill us. Kuroko was knocked out early on to protect me and I was forced to try to escape with her. The girl could transform her body into blades and armor. The blades were able to cut through pretty much anything and the armor was resistance to electricity and my iron sand. Eventually, I managed to stop her and she disappeared. Kuroko woke up and we headed back to our dorm." It wasn't exactly a lie, as everything did happen, but it was omitting a lot of important information.

"Thank you," Jason said and hit a few buttons on his screen. "I noticed something interesting involving your AIM fields. Each one of them began to fluctuate wildly for a short time during these fights. Did you experience anything… unusual?"

"Pssh," Accelerator said dismissively. "None of us track AIM fields. A good life or death struggle gets my blood moving though."

"I can agree with that," Shizuri laughed and Mikoto frowned at them.

"Nothing I haven't seen before," Misaki said with a shrug. "But I was more focused on the guy trying to hurt me."

"Well then," Jason mumbled and swiped his tablet. "In your opinion, were these people who attacked you from this city? You guys said they were mostly adult males with abilities, yet college students tend to be the most common older individuals."

"They were definitely from outside the city," Misaki said instantly. "The man I fought wanted me to go down quietly so he and his companions could leave."

"He was Japanese," Shizuri admitted. "But he definitely wasn't from around here."

"Guy I fought was probably from some no name crap hole," Accelerator mumbled.

"No," was all Mikoto said.

"One final question," Jason said. "After these fights, why did none of you think to contact Anti-Skill about being attacked? Students being attacked should have been reported immediately, even if it was only to Judgment."

"Because this is nothing new," Accelerator stated simply and glared at Jason. "I get attacked constantly by people thinking they would be considered the strongest if they beat me. The amount of time I would waste waiting for the idiots working security in this city to do their job would leave me with no time to do anything else. If they want to take care of trash that injures themselves, let them."

"I agree with the albino," Shizuri added and pointed to Accelerator.

"Go die in a ditch."

"After you." She turned back to Jason. "People always want to fight a level 5. They usually learn their lesson immediately afterwards, so there's no point in doing something as boring as reporting it."

"I was worried about Kuroko and didn't think of it," Mikoto admitted. "We just wanted to get out of there. I think she was planning to write a Judgment report today."

"While Accelerator-san and Mugino-san have good points," Misaki finished. "Their vulgar reasoning could use some adjustment." They glared at her. "Some people do falsely believe that if they defeat us, it would mean they are a level 5. No matter how much they are informed it is based on ability, not combat prowess. I know you are quite skilled in that regard, but there is no indication that is enough to make you a level 5, no offense."

"None taken," Jason replied and waved her on. "Please continue."

"So we eventually became dull to it," Misaki continued. "The city usually arrests those that instigated the fight if any destruction occurred. While these guys were tougher than run-of-the-mill students, we had no real reason to act any differently if we did not need medical attention."

"Very well, Shokuhou-san," Jason said and hit a few more buttons. "Thank you for those details. I'm hoping this question and answer session will be over soon-…"

"You mean interrogation," Shizuri spat.

"Do I look like someone who could interrogate anyone?" Jason asked with a grin. "I'm too adorable." Misaki and Mikoto gave an involuntary chuckle.

"Hasn't stopped me from wanting to punch you at school," Accelerator mumbled.

"Speaking of that," Jason said and glanced at his pad. "They are debating about letting you go and, if they do, you will be excused from classes for the rest of the day to go home and get some rest."

"That sounds nice," Mikoto said. She actually wouldn't mind that. It had been a long night with little sleep.

"I wouldn't mind that," Misaki agreed.

"A few hours to relax before the brats return," Accelerator mumbled. "I like the sound of that." Shizuri crossed her arms and glared at Jason.

"So," Jason remarked conversationally. "What was with those earlier comments about Kami? Was he involved in this?" Mikoto stared at him in disbelief.

I thought the whole purpose of this was not to get any of us in trouble, she thought. He even knows Touma is out of the city. What is he planning? Misaki was thinking along the same lines, but she could disguise her expression better. Accelerator and Shizuri were not as kind.

"He probably got involved with the wrong people," Accelerator scoffed. "And now we have to deal with the fallout. Bastard keeps opening his mouth and causing problems."

"If he was here," Shizuri added. "I would teach him the meaning of respect." A green orb appeared in her hand, but then extinguished it a second later.

"It's probably not a good idea to threaten people here," Jason remarked mildly, but he was grinning with amusement.

"Don't care," Shizuri snapped.

"Just blame him for whatever they are trying to pin on us," Accelerator suggested. "I want to go back to sleep."

"Kami does make some very broad claims," Misaki added. "A couple of my friends were rather insulted."

"Stop it, guys," Mikoto told them, slightly annoyed. "He wasn't involved and you know it."

"Kami fades in and out of sight easily enough," Jason pointed out. "He could be doing a lot. Guess I have to keep an eye out for him." He shook his head. "For some reason, only I seem to run into him often enough. The rest of the city officials can never locate him when needed." This time, there was a collective smirk on everyone's faces, even Mikoto gave an unwilling one. They sat in silence for a minute, while Jason tapped on his tablet, and then a voice came through a speaker into the room.

"Accelerator, Mental Out, Meltdowner, and Railgun," a man stated. "We appreciate your cooperation in this investigation. Please accept our apologies for earlier today. With security of the city at stake, we had to determine your safety and level of involvement…"

"Bullshit," Accelerator and Shizuri muttered.

"…Based on your testimonies," the man continued. "We believe there is sufficient evidence you acted in self-defense."

"Damn right," Mikoto heard Jason mutter.

"For now, you are free to go. However, your actions will be monitored and we advise for you all to learn some restraint. If new evidence arises that you have or plan to cause more destruction to our city, know we will be forced to administer discipline."

"I would like to see you try," Accelerator mumbled.

"I don't plan to," Misaki announced sweetly. "I like to avoid conflict."

"Sure you do," Shizuri said sarcastically with a roll of her eyes.

"May we go now?" Mikoto asked.

"Kagere-san will escort you out." There was a slight buzz of static as the speaker shut off.

"Of course I will," Jason muttered and stood up. "Well, looks like you are cleared for now." The other four stood up too. "Please try to keep property damage to a minimum."

"When have I ever caused property damage?" Shizuri asked innocently. Mikoto was not the only one who rolled her eyes.

"I'm pretty sure you have a quota to meet every day," Misaki said and Shizuri made a rude gesture.

"As much fun as this was," Accelerator told the others as they neared to the exit. "I hope I never have to see you brats again."

"Is that your way of saying you adore us?" Misaki asked sweetly.

"It's my way of saying you haven't earned a face in the wall yet," Accelerator snapped.

"Have you gone soft on us?" Shizuri asked with a mocking laugh, which caused Accelerator to growl at her.

"Your social skills haven't changed," Mikoto mumbled to herself. They reached the exit and she turned to Jason. She opened her mouth and tried to ask the question that had been on her mind the entire meeting. I have to know how Kuroko is. "Kagere, how-…?"

"It was nice seeing you again," Jason interrupted her and reached out to shake her hand. "I hope you don't run into more trouble anytime soon." He smiled and waved, before turning around and walking back into the building. Mikoto had frozen and her hand was clenched tightly in a fist. She walked out of the building to see Misaki waiting for her.

"I figured we could walk back together," Misaki suggested. "Accelerator-san and Mugino-san do not make good company, sadly. Besides safety in numbers, we can talk about last night."

"Yeah," Mikoto agreed as they walked down the street. "But maybe we should grab the other two before they disappear." She looked up at Misaki's curious expression. "Here." Mikoto passed a piece of paper in her hand over to Misaki, who took it and frowned slightly.

"Do you know where this is?"

"Unfortunately." The words on the paper Jason gave her were painfully clear.

One hour, meet where Mugino and Kami fought.

---

"We're here," Shizuri stated irritated. "Now, where is he?"

"It's only been forty-five minutes," Mikoto told her. "Besides, it's probably only a rough estimate." She, Shizuri, Misaki, and Accelerator were all standing around on the shore near the river, a bridge a short way in the distance. It was a pretty good place to have a private discussion. No one would be able to sneak up on them and, with school being in session, the number of people who would possibly approach them were limited.

"I think this gives us the opportunity to discuss a few things before he arrives too," Misaki added. "Kagere-san works for the city, so he probably wants to talk about what their plans are that involve us. For now, we need to talk about last night. Obviously, we were all attacked by Eve's forces, right?"

"Quit stating the obvious," Accelerator snapped. "I fought a damn vampire, or at least he called himself one. He was the one who stopped Kagere's ex bitch last time. He bit Last Order and I have Bayloupe watching her, but if there is any lasting damage, I'm going to that damn nun. The hero also has some explaining to do about a classmate." He gritted his teeth and Misaki looked at him curiously.

"Can't even protect a brat," laughed Shizuri, only for Accelerator to turn his glare toward her. "There's the look I remember. My opponent called himself Oda Nobunaga." She sneered when Misaki and Mikoto stared at her. "Yep, the legendary one. I took him down."

"They sure like to take grandiose names," Misaki commented. "I fought Arthur Pendragon-…"

"Wait," Mikoto recognized. "As in King Arthur?"

"The very same," Misaki confirmed. "He even wielded Excalibur. That blade was what destroyed the train station. I had to convince him and Lancelot to leave."

"We know what you mean by convince," Shizuri pointed out.

"Physical violence is beneath me," huffed Misaki.

"More along the lines you pass out after any physical activity," Mikoto said with a grin. Misaki scowled at her. "I faced Juliet, but managed to incapacitate her, I think."

"You think?" Accelerator asked annoyed.

"Well," Mikoto said and scratched her cheek. "She turned into a small black orb, so I'm really not sure."

"I prefer to make sure my enemies are gone by hitting them with my ability directly," Shizuri said.

"And that is why we don't trust you," muttered Mikoto.

"The exact details on how we won our fight may be relevant in a minute," Misaki interrupted and stepped between everyone. "However, a piece of information I discovered about Eve's plan involves us."

"You mean how she ordered her goons to push us to our limits and see if we change?" Shizuri asked with a slight grin.

"You know?!" Misaki gasped. "Here I thought it was because I managed to see a few memories."

"He was not exactly subtle about it," Shizuri muttered. "He did everything he could to piss me off, even saying a level 0 was more of a challenge than me, and it wasn't even Kamijou and his bullshit hand."

"Juliet was the same way," Mikoto agreed. "Her words, her actions, they were specifically targeting me emotionally, to get me angry. She purposely targeted Kuroko first and then me."

"That makes sense," Accelerator mumbled. "Cain was rather focused on attacking the brat over me. He obviously was sent to kill me, but also to turn Last Order." He frowned. "Eve's plan involves the brat and when I see her again, I'm going to rip her to pieces."

"I'm not sure how Last Order fits in," Misaki admitted. "But I'm a firm believer she wanted to see if we all could transform. We know she saw my transformation in England. This had to be a test to see what kind of power our transformation toward level 6 granted us. The question is, why?"

"Scout her enemies because she knew we would get in the way?" Mikoto asked.

"That would be stupid," Shizuri spat out. "As much as I hate to admit it, she is much smarter than that. Making us stronger, even to sate her curiosity, would only add risks to her plans. Her minions should have been skilled enough to assassinate us if they didn't reveal themselves. The fact that they did, proves Eve was after something more."

"Keep up, third rate," Accelerator added.

"Shut up!" she snapped back at him.

"This led me to only one conclusion," Misaki continued. "I don't believe Eve has a full grasp of what science side abilities are, as she is part of the magic side. For her to have beyond a basic understanding, indicates someone in Academy City is feeding her information."

"Why would someone do that?" Mikoto asked.

"Money, power, fame," Accelerator stated. "Take your pick. This city is full of greedy bastards."

"Touma and Saten-san told us Eve would make deals with people," Misaki continued and nodded toward Accelerator. "Since they first saw the fluctuations in my readings after England, to any transformations you guys experienced in the city before yesterday, there has to be someone interested in making a level 6. If Eve promised them something, I bet they would agree."

"You make a lot of sense," Shizuri agreed grudgingly. "Regardless of how well-known some of those people are, they need allies. The more powerful allies they can get, the more they are willing to trade. Betraying the city to satisfy themselves would be a common occurrence."

"Great," Mikoto muttered to herself. "Now, we have spies to deal with too."

"And it won't be easy to look for them," Misaki added. "Because of the disturbance, our actions will be closely monitored for a while. I bet our AIM fields are being tracked as we speak. "

"So we can't just have her scan everyone we meet," Accelerator said and jabbed his thumb toward Misaki.

"That would be inefficient and taxing," Misaki replied.

"Then what should we do?" Mikoto asked.

"We find out information from the other side," Shizuri said and pointed. "Here comes our source now." The other three turned to see Jason walking toward them. He had changed out of the lab coat and was wearing normal jeans and a T-shirt. All four of them stared at him impatiently until he joined them. "You're late," Shizuri snapped.

"I have five minutes," Jason retorted.

"Did everything work out?" Misaki asked.

"Best as I could hope for," Jason said to her with a nod. "Thanks for playing along and answering some of those leading questions. We had enough evidence showing someone else was there because the scenes showed damage unrelated to your abilities, especially yours. They were having a hard time trying to figure out how Mental Out erased a train station."

"I'm pretty exceptional," Misaki said with a wink.

"About damn time the city realized that," Accelerator mumbled. "It should have been obvious."

"Oh, they did," Jason admitted and the four of them turned towards him. "However, I believe a couple people wanted you guys to get blamed for it. You see, while they tracked your AIM fields, each of them changed, pretty drastically, and they probably wanted to run experiments on you."

"That… might actually relate to what we were just discussing," Mikoto said and Jason looked at her in confusion. It only took her and Misaki a couple minutes to explain their suspicion, with Accelerator and Shizuri commenting occasionally with snide remarks. "So?" Mikoto asked. "What do you think?"

"Has to be Ricane," Jason mumbled.

"Who?!" the other four asked.

"Scientist," Jason answered. "Sogiita actually met him in Rome. He had the Mark of Gluttony. Turns out, after some digging, we found out he made clones of himself and copied his memories before transferring it back to his main body in cryogenic stasis."

"So he's been working with Eve," Accelerator shrugged. "What proof do you have that the bastard is trying to make us transform?"

"Because he was the one who started giving out those illegal boosting drugs," Jason answered simply.

"You mean the ones Judgment had been working on stopping?" Mikoto gasped. "But I thought they didn't have any leads. The supply dried up recently."

"Anti-Skill keeps a lot of secrets from Judgment," Jason said with a shrug. "Something about children not being involved." He rolled his eyes. "Anyways, he had released those drugs into the civilian populace. Turns out he was manipulating Kakine along the way." Mugino and Accelerator raised an eyebrow. "Probably promised him power."

"He did," Accelerator confirmed. "It also explains how he used magic. If this Ricane was working for Eve, he would have access to both."

"Fucking dark matter clones," Shizuri spat out. "It allowed him to bypass those conflicting laws you told us about."

"It was pretty ingenious," Jason admitted. "But once Kakine was defeated, Ricane lost his heavy hitter and had to disappear underground."

"Did he also steal that one long range communication device?" Mikoto asked. "Kuroko mentioned that when she was taking your spot." Shizuri glanced over at her. She was the only one who had not been involved in the body swap.

"The Dimensional Transmission Emitter Console?" Jason asked. "Huh, I forgot about that with everything going on. Yeah, I think he has that if Kakine's group was the one who stole it."

"So we have a scientist with intimate knowledge of magic," Misaki mumbled. "Along with possible clones that can use magic."

"What did he specialize in?" Shizuri asked. "Was he heavily involved in ability research?"

"Well, no," Jason replied.

"Huh?" Shizuri growled. "You better not be shitting me!"

"He specialized in robotics," Jason explained. "Machines, AI, advanced technology, you name it. If it wasn't for him actually making that drug, I wouldn't have believed it either. Anti-Skill confiscated a lot of it before Kakine was defeated. It worked, but the side effects were horrible." Shizuri briefly met his eyes.

So that's how he acquired those drugs, Shizuri thought to herself. He must have worked with those drugs to measure the dosage. Combine that with the transformation Mental Out went through in England and that he works for the Research Division. It explains how he could get the drug to transform me, but I don't need it anymore. However, that puts him in the perfect place to be a spy too. If he is, it has to be the long con. He nearly died a couple times and was saved by one of the others. It was her nature not to trust others. I'll have to watch him closely. It seems unlikely, but there is a chance he could slip up, if he is with Eve.

"Well," Accelerator said. "We keep finding new questions and none of us have answers. I'm bored, so I'm going to leave. Don't bother me unless you have some real news." Have to make sure the brats okay and what Bayloupe has to say on the diagnostics. Can't believe I woke up right next to her. We were exhausted, but still… that is not like me. Jason and Misaki waved goodbye, but he ignored them.

"It is a waste of my time to stay any longer," Shizuri added and left without another word.

"They are right in a way," Misaki added. "We really shouldn't stay grouped together like this without reason. It looks suspicious. I'm going to head back to the dorms. It was nice to see you Kagere-san and thanks for all the help. I'll talk to you later, Misaka!"

"Sure," Mikoto replied and nodded as Misaki gave a cheerful wave and left. Mikoto purposely stayed behind until the others were out of earshot. Jason didn't make any move to leave and waited patiently. Glad he knows what I want to ask. She turned to him and opened her mouth. "Is Kur-…?"

"She's fine."

"Really?" Mikoto gasped and her legs started shaking. She fell backwards onto the grass and landed on her butt. "Thank god." Jason smiled and sat down across from her.

"I was late because I had to take Kuroko over to Index first," Jason explained. "I was going to do this first thing in the morning, but then I was ordered to go to that meeting. I had to bring her with me."

"Wait, Kuroko was there?!"

"Disguised," Jason added with a chuckle. "She heard the entire discussion, including what happened before I talked to you guys. I think she actually believes I do real work now."

"Yeah, I doubt that," Mikoto replied and couldn't resist laughing. Everything was brighter knowing Kuroko was in good hands.

"Anyways," Jason continued. "Index was at Touma's dorm and I told her what I knew. Turns out, Itsuwa was also there and I didn't know. I'm really bad at keeping track of magicians." He muttered the last part and Mikoto had to hold back a smirk. "But they said it would be an easy fix for her. I trust them both, so expect Kuroko to return soon."

"Finally," Mikoto sighed in relief. "Everything can go back to normal." She then frowned. "Actually, will she remember everything that happened?" Jason nodded. "No, things won't go back to normal. We will have to have a serious talk." She looked closely at Jason. "Did… did she try anything when she was at your place?"

"Not really," Jason said with a shrug. "We mostly talked, but she didn't do anything crazy like confess."

"What would you have done if she did?" Mikoto prodded.

"I'm… not sure," Jason admitted. "I would try to pass it off as the magic messing with her, but if she really got serious, I would have to try to let her down easily I suppose."

"That's what I figured." Mikoto stood up. "Thanks, for everything Kagere-san. For helping Kuroko, for your interference with the city, for listening to me vent, thank you."

"It's what friends are for," Jason replied dismissively.

"I guess so," Mikoto admitted. "Would you happen to know when Touma will return?"

"Sadly, I do not. He needs to return soon though. The raffle won't be the same without him."

---

"He's back!"

Accelerator knew something was wrong the moment he reentered the apartment. He had not gone straight back and mulled around the city for a bit before grabbing some lunch. When the door opened and he heard Worst's excited yelling, his danger sense went off. The door closed behind him and he stepped into the living room. "What is going on?" he asked suspiciously.

Aiho was standing in the middle of the room, while Kikyou fiddled with a projector. This wouldn't have been that unusual, except it was a school day. Aiho should have been teaching gym at his school. What was even more suspicious was that Bayloupe and Estelle were both here. They were sitting in two separate chairs. Estelle smiled and greeted him, but she looked slightly confused at what was happening. Bayloupe only nodded her head at him, but diverted her eyes. Worst had the largest smile her had ever seen on her face when she looked at him. The danger alarms in his mind blared louder. There was the faint sound of music coming down the hall from Last Order's room, though her door was closed. He raised an eyebrow as Aiho turned to him.

"We didn't expect you back so soon," she said. "But I guess it doesn't make much difference. Kikyou is almost done."

"With what?" he asked. "And why are you even here?"

"Day off," Aiho replied dismissively. "Had to work late last night and that was my reward."

"Again, what the hell is this?" Accelerator asked and gestured to the projector.

"I'll get to that in a moment," she told him. "Go ahead and have a seat." He glared at her, but sat down in the open chair next to Bayloupe.

"You are going to love this," Worst whispered excitedly to him. "Misaka was waiting all morning for you to return." She was virtually bouncing on the balls of her feet.

Damn it, Accelerator thought. This is going to suck. Anytime Worst is happy, it only means bad news.

"I'm not sure what is going on either," Estelle whispered to him. "They only talked to us and said they had something to show everyone when you got back." Accelerator turned his eyes toward Bayloupe. Estelle was naïve in many ways, especially about anything relating to nudity, but Bayloupe was smart. By her expression and determination not to look at him directly, he knew something was up.

"They asked us what happened last night and why we were here," Bayloupe whispered back softly. Accelerator could barely hear her and her lips didn't seem to move much. "We couldn't tell them about our side, so I may have had to… embellish some details."

"What did you say?" Accelerator demanded in an undertone through gritted teeth.

"All done!" Kikyou announced and stood up. The grin on her face made Accelerator flinch. "Take it away, Aiho."

"Okay," Aiho announced and clapped her hands together. "Last Order is in her room with the music turned up because this conversation is for adults." More warning bells went off for Accelerator. "When Kikyou and I returned yesterday, we were surprised to say the least."

"I still find it hard to believe Accelerator brought two girls over to spend the night," Kikyou added with a chuckle.

"I would prefer some notice before you bring friends over," Aiho continued and looked directly at Accelerator. "But they explained the situation." She crossed her arms. "Bayloupe made it quite clear it was self-defense when you five were attacked."

"We were definitely attacked first," Estelle agreed. "If it wasn't for master, we would have been killed." Accelerator face palmed when she called him that. No matter how many times he told her not to, she kept at it. Since Aiho and Kikyou did not seem to mention it, she must have explained why she called him that to them at some point.

"Some idiot thought he could take me," Accelerator yawned and made a dismissive motion with his hand.

"So we figured," Aiho agreed. "Bringing guests wasn't the problem and I'm actually glad you did. It showed how much you have matured since you arrived. The old you would have just left them there."

"You make it sound like I'm a monster," Accelerator muttered. I used to be, so it's really not inaccurate.

"Indifferent or uncaring would be a better word," Kikyou said. "You usually ignored people."

"Master may not necessary be happy to get involved," Estelle argued. "But if he sees someone in trouble, he will step in."

"He helped my friends and me back in England," Bayloupe added. "Though, I think he was pressured by someone else." Accelerator glared at her and she smirked at him.

"Misaka thinks he was just trying to get into your pants," Worst sneered and Accelerator threw a cushion at her. Bayloupe tried to keep a calm demeanor, but her cheeks flushed slightly.

"We are getting off track," Aiho interrupted firmly. "The point I was trying to make was we were not concerned about you bringing friends over. What we," she glanced over at Kikyou, who was smiling, "were concerned about was the fact we found you in bed with a girl."

"I told you nothing happened," Bayloupe stated defiantly. "We were exhausted and collapsed. We didn't wake up until this morning." She had exhausted herself healing everyone that night. It was the reason Accelerator did not have to go to a hospital.

"Last Order wanted to sleep with her," Accelerator said quickly. "But must have followed me."

"Suuuuure," Worst commented sarcastically.

"Regardless what may or may not have happened," Aiho continued with a huge grin. A vein in Accelerator's head throbbed. "You were still found in the same bed with your girlfriend." Accelerator blinked.

"My…WHAT?!" Accelerator shouted, the second his brain processed the information.

"No need to be embarrassed," Kikyou laughed and winked at him. "It all made sense when we found out. Worst was particularly interested."

"Still can't believe it," Worst admitted. "She's somewhat attractive. Why on earth would she want to be with a scrawny loser like you?"

"Fuck you," Accelerator told her.

"Misaka might be willing to have a threesome," Worst laughed. "But saying that in front of your girlfriend? Tou-san grew some balls." Accelerator turned to Bayloupe.

"What else did you tell them?" he asked through gritted teeth.

"Nothing much," Bayloupe replied nervously. "It was the only way to answer all their questions." Accelerator thought about it for a moment. It actually would be a good cover story. Last Order had possibly been turned into a vampire and Bayloupe would be watching her until they could find a cure. It gave them an excuse to travel together. Bayloupe also provided information on the magic side if Jason was not around. All and all, it wasn't that bad of a plan. If he was honest with himself, it could have been a lot worst. He didn't hate Bayloupe and actually found her tolerable. If it had been someone like the third, fourth, or fifth rate, he would have had to kill everybody there.

"So you found out," Accelerator sighed and resigned himself to the lie.

"Aww," Kikyou said to Aiho. "He's embarrassed."

"I bet they were waiting for him to get the nerve to tell us," Aiho whispered back, but loud enough for all of them to hear. Worst was laughing hysterically and Accelerator was gripping the armrests of the chair with enough force that they were at risk of snapping.

"I knew they were friends," Estelle admitted. "But I didn't know master was dating her. Congratulations."

"Whatever," Accelerator said and turned to Bayloupe. His eyes flashed and she tried to apologize without saying a word.

"Where were we?" Aiho asked Kikyou.

"They were in a bed together," Kikyou replied instantly. "So that is why we have to do this."

"Right." Aiho turned back to the others. "Anyway, you are all high school students, so this type of behavior is to be expected…."

"Huh?" Accelerator, Worst, Bayloupe, and Estelle asked in unison.

"…Which is why we set this presentation up," Aiho continued. She gestured to Kikyou and the projector.

"Nooo," Accelerator began to panic when someone clicked in his brain.

"It's about time you guys had the talk," Aiho finished. "And learn about male and female reactions, along with the consequences."

"Tada," Kikyou announced and hit a button on the remote in her hand. The lights in the room went off and the projector turned on. The presentation appeared on the wall with a very obvious title.

Sex Education, Why the Hell Should We Care?

"FUCK THIS!" Accelerator roared. His protest was drowned out by Worst's hysterical laughter.

---

"Queen!" a group of girls called out when they arrived at the café.

"Hello," Misaki greeted her friends, as she set down her cup of tea. She was sitting outside at a table under a large umbrella. Because of her absence, she had received numerous messages asking why. Instead of trying to explain to everyone, she decided it would be easier to just talk to a group of her closest members of her clique. They had to wait until after school, which gave her time for some much deserved rest, and then travel to one of her favorite café's near their school for a cup of tea. "Sorry about the sudden disappearance, but the city requested my attendance at the last minute." Six girls sat down around the table.

"That was rather rude on their part," one of them said, after they had ordered.

"Sometimes things happen that do not allow for advanced notice," Misaki replied mildly.

"You are so understanding, Queen," another girl told her, beaming. Misaki gave her a small smile. While she did enjoy spending time with the girls, she had been getting used to hanging out with Touma, Mikoto, and all their friends recently. They were a lot more blunt about their opinions, rather than reserved and agreeable. A couple months ago, she would never have imagined she actually would enjoy their company. Both groups had their appeal, but it surprised Misaki how she could miss both groups.

"I can't go into a lot of details," Misaki explained. "But several of the other level 5s were there, Misaka, Accelerator-san, and Mugino-san. The city was just informing us about our new schedules and personnel who may work with us." She added that last part in case Jason would have to meet with her randomly. Last few times, she had to use her power to persuade the other girls to let them talk. "I'll try to keep you up to date if something happens, but my schedule may be a little disorganized over the next few weeks."

"Thank you for letting us know," one of the other girls said. "We won't have to worry now, but you can come to us if you ever need help."

"I know," Misaki replied and smiled at her, causing the girl to blush slightly.

"Queen," the girl with lilac hair in ringlets asked her. "Do you have any plans to attend the raffle involving Kami on Saturday? Since you missed class, I feel I should inform you most of our school are talking about it. They are quite excited and hoping they can win the prize of having him visit."

"Hmm," Misaki mused in pretend thought. A finger delicately pressed against her cheek. "I think I will," she finally admitted. "If our classmates desire his attendance, it would be rude for me not to assist. It might even be better for me to escort him around, being a level 5. Our classmates all know proper etiquette, but many of them lack experience with young men."

"Your presence would be most welcomed."

"Though, I'm worried about Kami being at our school." Misaki turned to the other girl who just spoke up.

"What do you mean?" she asked kindly. "You can speak freely about any concerns."

"I remember when he had that interview," the girl explained hesitantly. "I'm worried he might try something. From what we seen, he is not the most… well-mannered individual. He might try to take advantage of those who do not understand males." If she had said that about Touma, Misaki doubted they would be friends anymore, but because this was about Kami, she controlled herself.

"Misaka and I talked to him," Misaki reassured her, determinedly keeping her voice calm. "Turns out, while he is a level 5, his relationship with his classmates is very strong. He tends to get roped into their ideas and one of them wanted him to say that during the interview, if he was asked about that. The time during the crime event, he was just staying in character so his friends could receive the extra credit they needed. He is not nearly as bad as those two appearances made him out to be."

"Oh," the girl replied, clearly embarrassed. "I jumped to conclusions and I apologize. If he is as you say, I have no reservations about this. Would you like us to assist you?"

"We will have to judge how popular the raffle is," Misaki answered seriously. "I have the feeling this will be much more complicated than a simple game should be. We may have to rely on luck."

---

It had been a long day for Mikoto. She spent nearly all of it in her room, trying to sleep. Jason had returned with her briefly to retrieve the ball Juliet was in. Once Mikoto gave it to him, he left, leaving her alone. She kept tossing and turning in her bed, worries about Kuroko and what Eve was planning kept her up. After what felt like an eternity, Mikoto instantly sat up on the bed, when she heard the door to her room opened.

"Kuroko!" Mikoto cried out when she walked in. Kuroko grinned sheepishly and closed the door behind her.

"Hi, onee-sama," Kuroko whispered. "I'm b-…" She was interrupted when Mikoto bolted over and embraced her in a tight hug.

"I'm so glad you're back!" Mikoto exclaimed through her tears. "I was so worried." She did not let go for over a minute and Kuroko returned the hug just as tightly. "Are…are you cured?"

"Index took care of," Kuroko confirmed. "She broke apart Juliet's spell and Itsuwa performed the magic. It only took a little time for them to gather the items they needed for the spell." Mikoto sat down on her bed and Kuroko on hers.

"So," Mikoto said hesitantly. "What all happened since you left last night?"

"I was in a bad place," Kuroko admitted. "Juliet's magic was messing with all of my emotions." Mikoto nodded, because Jason had told her that already. "I still remember hating you, but when I think back, I can't really understand why I hated you. My feelings for you now haven't changed from before. When I left, I had no idea what I was going to do. If I hadn't run into Jason… I don't know what would have happened." She looked at the floor and Mikoto got up to sit next to her. She put a reassuring arm around Kuroko's shoulder. "Thanks," Kuroko mumbled and wiped her eyes.

"Do you want to continue?" Mikoto asked. "I can understand if you want to wait."

"I can," Kuroko reassured her. "He took me back to his place, so I could dry off and avoid catching a cold. After that, we talked for a bit and he let me stay the night. This morning, he was forced to attend a meeting with some other people. You know the one. I convinced him to let me tag along."

"He mentioned you were there," Mikoto admitted. "So you really heard everything?"

"Yeah," Kuroko confirmed. "I was still under Juliet's magic, so I got angry for no reason when you spoke, but I managed to hold on. We teleported to the ape's dorm right after Jason managed to escape." A small smile appeared on her face. "I found out today he actually does work. All this time, I accused him of just goofing around."

"I told you he works occasionally," Mikoto said with a roll of her eyes. They both had a short laugh about that. The laughter died out and there was an awkward silence between them. The argument last night was still fresh in their mind. They turned to each other and spoke simultaneously.

"I'm sorry!" They both blinked and looked confused.

"I was the one who overreacted to everything and hurt you when I ran off," Kuroko protested.

"I should have done more to find you," Mikoto retaliated. "You were in pain and I could only stay here."

"There wasn't anything you could have done!"

"That just made it worse." They stared at each other, both thinking about what they could say.

"Maybe we could say both of us were in the wrong?" Kuroko suggested. Mikoto blinked and smiled.

"Okay," she agreed. "As long as we promise not to blame ourselves too much."

"Deal." They hugged again.

"Kuroko," Mikoto said. "No matter what happens, you are my best friend, so I promise to try to stop hiding anything from you. You have told me I don't have to shoulder everything alone, and I shouldn't." Kuroko smiled brightly at her.

"Thank you," Kuroko told her. "You have no idea what that means to me. Knowing I can support you through any storm." She hugged Mikoto tightly again. "You are my best friend too." Mikoto hugged her back and then something occurred to her.

"You haven't tried to grope me," Mikoto mumbled, not realizing she said that out loud.

"Huh?" Kuroko asked confused and they broke apart.

"Nothing," Mikoto replied quickly, but diverted her eyes. Kuroko narrowed her own suspiciously and then smirked.

"Oh? Did you want me to?"

"W-what, no!" Mikoto denied. "It's just, I know we can have serious talks, but you tend to try something at the end. I was just confused for a moment, so you don't have to try anything to prove you are okay." Kuroko laughed and then grew serious.

"If we are being honest," Kuroko admitted and rubbed the back of her head. Mikoto raised an eyebrow and Kuroko gulped. "Index and Itsuwa might have finished curing me over two hours ago." Mikoto sat in silence for a moment.

"What?" She looked slightly hurt that Kuroko didn't come to her immediately.

"I… had to do some thinking," Kuroko mumbled and looked away. "Once my head was cleared, I had to think about these emotions inside of me."

"I see," Mikoto mumbled when it dawned on her. This had to happen eventually.

"Onee-sama," Kuroko continued. "You are amazing, smart, beautiful, caring, and perfect in almost every way. I have admired you since we first met. I tried to show you how I felt, even knowing you did not feel the same way about me."

"Kuroko…" Mikoto said softly.

"Please let me finish," Kuroko interrupted and Mikoto went silent. "I held onto the belief that your feelings would change, but they didn't. Instead, you met the ape and fell for him. I admit, I was devastated when I first found out, but I still believed this was just a temporary thing. I realize now I was only fooling myself. You would never be attracted to me in the same way." Mikoto opened her mouth, but Kuroko kept pressing forward. "I had to force myself not to show it. Then something happened. I found myself feeling weird around someone else. It wasn't the same type of feelings I had with you, it was more embarrassing and made me feel… uncomfortable, but in a good way."

"Kagere-san?" Mikoto asked hesitantly. She wanted to be absolutely sure and Kuroko confirmed it quickly with a nod.

"I found him so annoying at the beginning," Kuroko sighed and flopped back on the bed. "But he grew on me. Confident, willing to help us with problems, strong, and funny… do not tell him I said that, ever! I know we argue a bit, but I kind of enjoy it. He doesn't let people push him around. I have seen how he treats Uiharu and that is what makes this so difficult." She covered her eyes with her arm. "Onee-sama, I fell for him and I think this is my first real crush. My feelings for you are more admiration, like an idol or older sister. You are still a really important person in my life, but it's not romantic I think. I probably feel that way about Jason as you feel about the ape." Mikoto smiled and laid down right next to Kuroko.

"It sounds like it," Mikoto admitted. "So, how do you want to do go about this? You always acted so confidently when you expressed yourself around me."

"I want to tell him," Kuroko stated with passion. "But how could I? If he was single, this would be easy, but he's with Uiharu. She's my closest friend after you. If I tell Jason I like him, it could ruin our friendship."

"Keeping it bottled up inside is only going to hurt more in the long run," Mikoto countered. "I did that and it was only by accident he found out. That made it so much more embarrassing."

"I don't want to lose any of my friends," Kuroko complained. "Why does love have to be so hard?"

"One of life's great mysteries," Mikoto muttered with a grin. "So, are you going to keep calling me onee-sama, or use my actually name now?"

"I think I'll keep calling you onee-sama," Kuroko replied with a smirk.

"Why?"

"Because you're still special to me," Kuroko answered. "As I said, I admire you like an older sister, so it's appropriate."

"That's fine, I was just curious." They sat in silence, but enjoyed each other's company, as they mentally ran over everything they discussed and went through over the past twenty-four hours.

"I think," Kuroko announced suddenly. "Tomorrow, I'm going to talk to Uiharu. I don't want to lose my friend, but I'm afraid I'll act differently and make a mistake if I don't do anything."

"Would you like me to go with you?" Mikoto asked.

"Thank you, but no. This is something I have to do myself." Kuroko took a deep breath. "At least Jason doesn't know I liked him, or last night would have been uncomfortable."

"Errrr," Mikoto trailed off and Kuroko glanced at her.

"What was that noise?" Kuroko asked suspiciously.

"You see…," Mikoto started. It only took fifteen seconds to explain what she learned last night. After two minutes of silence, she looked over at her friend. Kuroko had not moved and her eyes were blank. I think she broke. A second later, Mikoto almost went deaf.

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE KNOWS!?"

---

"I'm baaaaack," Frenda announced. The sun had set in Academy City by the time she burst into the safe house. She doubted anyone was asleep this early and she knew Saiai would be excited to see her back. The door shut automatically behind her and she looked around. Only Shiage and Rikou were in the room. Shiage was watching TV on the couch and Rikou had been sleeping in a chair. Frenda's announcement had jolted Rikou awake.

"…Oh, Frenda," Rikou said and yawned. "It is good to see you back."

"Good to be back," Frenda agreed. "Basically, I have so much to tell you guys."

"Frenda," Shiage said hesitantly.

"What do you want, Hamazura?" Frenda snapped at him, as she walked toward them. Shiage muttered a single word in warning.

Run!

Frenda opened her mouth to respond, but a hand fell on her shoulder and gripped her like iron. She turned around and froze in fear.

"You are finally back," Shizuri hissed. "I'm pretty sure I told you I wanted constant updates."

"We had no reception in Australia," Frenda squeaked in order to avoid death. "Basically, I had no way of contacting you."

"I see," Shizuri replied and Frenda, for a brief moment, thought she would get out of this alive, but then Shizuri continued. "Yet you did not notify me when you approached or arrived in the city?"

"Eep," squeaked Frenda again and then tried to play it off. She hit the side of her head slightly with her first, turned around and smiled. "Oops, I forgot?"

"Your memory needs some work then," Shizuri told her coldly. She started drag Frenda into the back room. "You and I will work on that after a very long talk."

"Please don't kill me, Mugino!" Frenda cried out, before they disappeared when the door closed.

"I super would not want to be in her shoes," Saiai commented, as she stepped out of the kitchen with a bag of chips. "Mugino has not been in a good mood all day."

"She just wants to find out what Frenda witnessed," Shiage said optimistically. "She won't kill her, right?" A loud scream interrupted them.

Saiai shrugged.

---

Imouto was happy to be back in Academy City, but she was still feeling slightly sour. Night had fallen when they landed in the city and everyone was exhausted. As she, Touma, Ruiko, Frenda, Lessar, and Oriana started going their separate ways, Oriana leaned it and gave Touma a kiss on the forehead as thanks for all his help. The results were immediate. Lessar refused to be outdone and jumped at the stunned boy to deliver her own version of a thank you kiss. It took the combination of Frenda, Ruiko, and Imouto to stop her. Imouto didn't trust Lessar going home with Touma, but he assured her they would be fine. Imouto grudgingly left after that. On the way back, she felt someone watching her. Her hand reached for her gun, as she simultaneously turned around. The sight that greeted her was an exact copy of her.

"Hello, Misaka 19090, Misaka 10032 greets nervously."

"The fact you did not know it was Misaka until you turned, Misaka 19090 states. Shows that you have still refused to reconnect to the network and have not been fulfilling your end of the agreement."

"Misaka does not know what you mean, Misaka 10032 lies. Misaka made sure to update the network with any physical contact."

"That was used as a display of dominance, Misaka 19090 refutes. You will drop your weapon and come with Misaka for questioning."

"If Misaka refuses? Misaka 10032 asks."

"Then we will use force, Misaka 19090 states flatly." From side streets, five more Sisters emerged, all wielding their goggles and weapons.

This is not good. Imouto raised her own weapon in response.

---

"Guess who's back!" Ruiko declared after barging into her room. She briefly heard her name a second before a flowery blur crashed into her.

"I'm so glad you are safe, Saten-san," Kazari cheered, after embracing her best friend with a hug. She blinked away her watery eyes and then began to pound her fists on Ruiko's chest. "How could you just up and leave like that? You barely gave me any information! Baka!"

"I didn't have much choice," Ruiko apologized and they both sat down to talk. It was late, but both ignored the time. "I ran into Frenda at the supermarket and we were heading back, when we saw Touma, Lessar, and two other girls." Touma had asked her not to talk about Mikoto's sister until after they talked with Mikoto. "We followed them and got dragged along."

"Where did you go?" Kazari asked. "You said it was far away, so I assumed it was out of the city."

"Australia." Kazari's eyes widened in shock and it took a long time to explain what happened. Ruiko left a few things out, stuff like sharing a bed in the hotel room and Touma's wardrobe malfunction. Kazari listened in fascination as Ruiko explained how they flew to Australia on a hypersonic jet, traveled into the desert, and met up with Carissa's forces. She gasped when Ruiko described Adam's assault and looked shocked when Ruiko described the battle in the tunnels. Kazari only asked a few questions, so Ruiko could keep the story flow up. The final battle with Adam left Kazari transfixed. When Ruiko finally finished Kazari embraced her again. "What's this for?"

"You have been through so much," Kazari explained.

"This is kind of what I wished for." Ruiko rubbed the back of her neck. "Now that I actually took part, I have a hard time seeing how Touma can continue to jump into situations like this so readily. It gave me a newfound respect for him, along with people like you and Shirai-san. You all risk your own safety for others, even complete strangers."

"Heh," Kazari chuckled. "Don't worry. You have the same crazy desire the rest of us have to help others."

"Is that a good thing?" Ruiko asked with a grin. "Always causing others to worry?"

"As long as you come back," Kazari replied.

"It does feel good to be back," Ruiko admitted and fell back onto her bed. "Hey Uiharu, you know what I have been up to the last few days, what about you?"

"Huh?"

"What have you been doing?"

"Mostly hanging out with Jason," Kazari replied. "It was too quiet without you."

"I'll make sure to make plenty of noise the next few days then," Ruiko laughed.

"Please don't," Kazari pleaded. "People will complain again. Oh, I almost forgot. I did have a meeting with the city about a possible job."

"Right," Ruiko remembered. "How did it go? I bet they were super impress at your skills."

"Kind of," Kazari admitted. She never really liked to brag. "They offered me a position and gave me a couple days to think about it. My boss is a little… unusual, but is really smart and important within the city. I am worried if I accept this job, I might have to give up Judgment duties."

"And you don't want to leave Konori-san and Shirai-san?" Ruiko asked knowingly.

"Yeah." Kazari briefly thought about the warning Jason gave her, but he promised to watch out for her if she wanted to do this. She would also be able to confide with him if something made her uncomfortable there.

"What do you want to do though?" Ruiko asked.

"I don't know."

"I know you do," Ruiko told her and crossed her arms. "You want to accept this job because you feel like you would be helping the city even more than what you are doing now. Not only that, you love working with computers and the idea of being able to use Academy City's supercomputers probably excites you." Ruiko grinned. "I bet you also want to see what it is like working for the city to understand more of what Jason's life is like, right?" She added a wink.

"W-wha-…!" Kazari spluttered, as her face flushed. She calmed herself down, looked at the ground, and nodded. "You know me too well."

"We have been best friends for a long time," Ruiko pointed out with a laugh.

"True."

"You know," Ruiko continued. "You could ask to accept the job on a trial basis and see if it is a good fit for you. If it's not, you can always quit."

"That's… a great idea," Kazari admitted. She stared at Ruiko for a minute. "Who are you and what have you done to my friend?"

"Hey!" Ruiko protested and then grinned deviously. "I see how it is." Before Kazari could react, Ruiko moved in front of her and flipped up her skirt. "Strawberries? Haven't seen that one in a while."

"SATEN-SAN!" Kazari cried out, as she pushed down her skirt.

"I missed that," Ruiko sighed with happiness and sat back down on her bed. "It is so stressful without you around."

"I really wish you could find another activity that did not involve skirt flipping," Kazari complained, but she smiled. "It is good to have you back," she said again.

"It is good to be back," Ruiko repeated.

"You know what," Kazari stated and fire flashed in her eyes. "I think you are right. I need to stop doubting myself and take this once in a lifetime opportunity. Tomorrow, I'm going to call and accept that job. I'm going to be brave like you!"

"Knew you would," Ruiko said and gave her friend a thumbs up. "Now, if you don't mind, I'm going to pass out. It has been a long day. We can hang… out…. tomorrow…" She toppled back onto the bed and fell asleep a moment later.

Kazari rolled her eyes, smiled, and pulled a blanket over her.

---

Jason was sitting in his apartment, the metal orb Mikoto had given him resting on the table in front of him. A look of concentration evident on his face as several shadow tendrils reached for the orb. He cut and pulled the top open. The electricity discharged with a small spark. Carefully, like peeling an orange, Jason removed the rest of the metal. The remains were exactly like Mikoto told him. The small black orb was floating an inch or so above the table. He leaned forward and examined it. It resembles my shadow ability perfectly. He frowned and one of his shadow tendrils moved forward slowly. He stopped when it was about half an inch away, took a deep breath, and then gentle touched the black orb with his own shadow.

---

"Would you please let go?" Touma pleaded for the twelfth time.

"You know the price," Lessar stated. She was being carried piggyback style with her legs wrapped tightly around Touma. She was upset Oriana beat her by kissing him and the others had stopped her from showing him what a true kiss was like. The reason she was being carried was she was exhausted and jumped on his back when the others had left. He only put up with her because she promised not to do anything else to him, while she was being carried. She knew he was just as tired as she was, so she made a deal with him. If he kissed her on the lips for at least five seconds, Lessar learned from her mistake last time, she would walk instead. "Or you could try to force me off."

"I'm sure you could kick my butt twenty different ways if we fought," Touma sighed.

"While that sounds really kinky," Lessar laughed and Touma's ears burned. "I'm too tired for that." Touma's apartment came into view and Lessar was impressed Touma was actually willing to carry her this far. His endurance is amazing. I really want to make use of that.

"I hope Index is okay," Touma muttered. "Itsuwa willing to stay and look after her was a huge load off my mind."

"It's not like the church was going to leave her alone," Lessar pointed out. "Magicians can break into Academy City, you know?"

"All too well," he admitted.

"And speaking of load," Lessar said deviously. "Don't you have another load you want to get off? I can help you with it." Touma did not humor her with a response.

They arrived at his dorm and Lessar finally hopped off his back, so he could unlock the door. As soon as his hand pressed against the door to push it open, the sound of breaking glass was heard. He blinked and looked at Lessar, who nodded for him to enter. Touma stepped in and a movement to his left caught his eye. He turned to see Itsuwa freeze, her spear only a foot away from Touma. "Ah!"

"I'm so sorry," Itsuwa apologized and, in an instant, her spear disappeared as she disassembled it. "The barrier was forcefully broken and I didn't know when you would be back. There was a possibility it might have been an enemy magician." She stepped back and let Touma and Lessar in.

"Did I hear Touma yell!?" Index called out from the other room. She bounded over and her eyes went wide. Touma suddenly covered his head.

"I'm sorry for leaving, Index!" he cried. "Please don't be angry!"

"Why would I be angry?" Index asked. Touma blinked and lowered his arms.

"You normally get mad when I disappear without warning," Touma muttered.

"That's because no one knows where you are," Index reprimanded him and wagged a finger. "You leave me alone without food, so I starve. I have to go out and try to find a kind person to share some! When you do return, you are covered in injuries! That is why I get mad. I get worried for you." She huffed and crossed her arms. "But Itsuwa explained the church needed your help and I couldn't argue."

"Thanks for taking care of her," Touma told Itsuwa, who smiled.

"It was no problem at all," she replied. "If it is okay, I may have to impose myself on your hospitality for a little while longer. The church is still worried about Eve hiding within the city."

"Of course," Touma replied. "I'm glad to have you, but we are going to have rough sleeping arrangements with you and Lessar here."

"That will not be a problem," Itsuwa responded, trying not to let the comment, about Touma glad to have her here, bother her. "I know you only have one bed, so I brought a futon with me. It's pretty comfortable and doesn't take up much room."

"You are a life saver!" Touma cried and leaned up against the wall, while he wiped the gratitude from his eyes.

"I take it everything went well?" Itsuwa asked Lessar, as she tried to avoid looking at Touma's grateful expression.

"Yep," Lessar confirmed with a thumbs up. "Most of what happened we accounted for, but then the Roman Catholic Church decided to send Fiamma of the Right." Itsuwa's eyes went wide and Lessar laughed. "Wasn't any problem for Lover Boy here. After wrecking Adam's assault on our base, he goes and fights Adam one on one to let our scattered troops regroup. Then when Fiamma arrives and captures him and the princess, Lover Boy takes him on in a fight and pulverizes his face. Fiamma is now in England's custody and Adam is gone. Fiamma actually helped us by killing Adam with a giant flaming sword." Touma looked at the ground and Itsuwa decided to change the subject.

"You can tell me the details tomorrow," she told Lessar and then turned to Touma. "You both look pretty drained. We ate already, but would either of you like something? It wouldn't be any problem to whip something up."

"I think sleep is more preferable for me," Touma admitted. "We ate before traveling here, though, the army food was… Zach was right about it. Let's not have that anytime soon." Itsuwa was about to giggle, but the look on his and Lessar's faces caused her to hold it in.

"I need some sleep too," Lessar agreed and then grabbed Touma's arm. "Let's sleep together. It will be fun and it's not like we haven't done it already."

"W-wha-...!?" spluttered Touma. He blinked and realized what she was referring too. "Don't say things people will misunderstand!"

"What's there to misunderstand?" Lessar asked innocently and tilted her head. Touma would have considered it cute, if her words weren't going to send him to the morgue. "We slept in the same bed, cuddled up, and even saw your morning wo-…"

"No you didn't!" Touma shouted, but his denial only exacerbated Lessar's teasing.

"I'm sure there is a misunderstanding here," Itsuwa said, trying to resolve the situation. It failed, miserably.

"When his pants were down, he flashed us," Lessar told Itsuwa. "The princess even saw it. I have to say, it was rather impressive. Could be tough to take it all at once." She winked at Itsuwa, whose jaw just hit the floor.

"Toooouummmaaa," Index growled warningly. Her eyes were red, her unnaturally sharp teeth flashed, and a dark aura surrounded her. "Explain yourself!"

"It was Lessar's fault!"

"I have no idea what you are talking about," Lessar lied and whistled. "Your pants fell purely by accident the day you decided to go commando." Itsuwa's face turned scarlet.

"That was because you stole-… wait, Index! Don't do it! Let me explain… AHHHH! Get her off, get her off!" His pleas went unanswered for several minutes, as Index refused to release her jaws of death upon the poor boy's head. Lessar was laughing too much and Itsuwa was still in shock from the revelation. Her imagination was running wild. It was a lot like what Kazari did.

---

An hour later, everyone was fast asleep. Index and Lessar were sharing a bed, while Itsuwa used her futon. Touma was lying in the tub like usual. Due to exhaustion, it felt like a five-star mattress. None of them noticed the uninvited visitor arrive. The window to the bathroom creaked open an inch and a small, brightly colored, snake slipped in. Nothing touched the window, but it closed once the snake was inside. The small serpent looked around and slid along the floor until it was right next to the tub. The end of Touma's blanket hung over the side and the snake raised its head, before disappearing under the corner.

---

Feel free to leave a review, comment, suggestions, or ideas, I love reading them. If you have a question you wish I ask and would like a quick answer, feel free to message me directly. I try to respond to those within a day or two. Comments, I tend to respond to in the next chapter.

I wonder how much foreshadowing you guys caught during this chapter. Some was obvious, but some may have only been a sentence long. Jason actually got some screen time, but it had to be done to lead to some character development along with a few important pieces of information. If anyone was keeping track of dates, this night finished our Thursday, which means next chapter will start Friday morning. Can anyone remember why Friday was important?

P.S. I was going to do a skit down here showing Accelerator in a Sex Ed class, but I figured you, the readers, warped brains could easily imagine something way funnier than what I could write.

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