Well, this time I seemed to have pulled a MrQuestionmark with this chapter. It's twice as long as a normal chapter. I seriously thought about making this a two shot, but was advised against it. This was only supposed to be a holiday special and two chapters would break the flow of the main story too much. I also considered making this into its own Halloween story. It could easily be 6-10 chapters if I did everything my brain imagined. Couldn't even get to the four horsemen in this one. Oh, a reminder! This is purely an SS and has no bearing on the main story's timing. I try to keep people's reactions to each other the same, but other than that, anything discussed in these will not carry over. I feel some people might have forgotten that. Let's do a quick comment section and you can get to the monster of a chapter. Monster… hehe. Get it? Because it's Halloween?

Bluejack222: Those paintings will be important later on.

The Wolf Paladin: We will see how everyone reacts. I want to give Aisa and Seiri some more spotlight, but it's hard for me. Everyone can write certain characters better than others.

Guest: You are one of the few people who actually wants Jason to be a good guy.

anand891996: I work hard to make sure he doesn't hog the spotlight. He has his roles for when I need certain things to happen. Mikoto and Misaki are… closer? Misaki still doesn't completely want Mikoto as part of the harem, but she will probably accept it. Mikoto finding out the harem is being treated seriously is going to be fun. She and Ruiko didn't really go much with it originally.

Whwsms: The letter is probably going to cause more destruction than anything else you mentioned.

Guest13: Jason and Eve's relationship is complicated. They both have goals they can achieve by working together. Snuggle-chan is anything but annoying. Shizuri gets a little bit, but she's not the kind of girl to blush easily.

wildarms13: The Carissa hype is real, but it will be after the raffle. Everything about Jason will make sense eventually, but then it will be near the end of the story.

Salishious: How did you know all that was about to happen? Besides, Accelerator is still going to murder some people over that painting before the sisters manage to get their own copy. What could Eve do with Touma's mom? Using alcohol again seems lazy.

Cyber dragonarmy: I'm not even sure what's happening anymore.

general ironox: Something will always happen. Death will follow.

DivineDemonDragon: I found someone who drew one picture, not sure if they will draw more. Will have to see.

edinosaur22: She's definitely up to something.

naruhinasakufan1: It's been a while since I've seen you. Still waiting for that update of yours btw. That skit was actually what was going to happen soon.

aGuestfromGreece45: One thing I really like about this story is I have so many things going at once. It can be a curse sometimes because I might forget about something.

Jujudude: The winner has already been decided because of what I can do with her. It may or may not be Yuna. You make it sound easy to 'Take out a Saint.' Remember, Eve has been playing this game for a long time. Someone may mess with her plan, but she just makes an adjustment and goes back to doing it. I'm working Seiri in slowly. Hmm, with a bunch of rich girlfriends, I'm sure a new apartment would be easy to acquire. Maybe if his dorm room blew up again.

Guest: I have it. It was useful for many people so I didn't have to think of something.

xaxiel1572: Touma is the kind of person not to think what he does is amazing. He truly believes anyone in his position would do it. It's only natural to help others who need it.

Sergio644: I'm better Touma's mother mentions it offhandedly to get a reaction and help Mikoto confess her feelings. The lunch date will not go smoothly though.

Generation Zero: Well, it was an Urn of a God and it's not permanent. It also means that urn can't be used again for fun. Magic Gods appear often, but you missed the small hint about how. "Given enough phases, every deity made mankind." Won't give out more if people have no read the LNs because it is a HUGE spoiler. It's not a magic god tied to Jason, but I did put a few hints on who it is. No name yet, but you should be able to guess. The power of friendship and self-worth! This is the reason I won't do the endless hells. He doesn't need to push from the Will to be selfish. Have a more… evil plan for the new Touma Kamijou. The AAA has most of the Five_Over weapons. Could add Meltdowner I suppose.

DEVIL ADITYA: Hopefully nothing cancels it. Remember, only a student can win the raffle.

ReyKingKaiser: Waiting to see what the LN says about that before I devote anything.

FrodoFighter: Okay, essay time. We all know you are Kamikoto fan through and through. "how hot Oriana is." Important plot point. Hey! Male tsunderes are people too and they just want people to love them, but they are shy inside so they act tough. Snuggle-chan is a very modest magic god. She doesn't like to show off, unless it's her body. "We all know that Accel has the habit of putting on some skintight shiny leotard and dance." I died here. Is it bad if Last Order knows the truth before Touma does? Jason vs Kanzaki. Should be a good fight. It's like batman vs superman. "Touma is some kind of mascot?" Yes, yes he is. Hey, Saten spending her pocket money to win a raffle to bring her 'sometimes' boyfriend to school is perfectly reasonable. It was obvious you like Mikoto and her Mom's moment, based on all the quotes. Kat is going to frame that painting above her mantle. Always knew you would love the ending.

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.

"There's no use in trying to run," Motoharu told Touma. "You aren't getting out of this."

"We won't let you," Pierce added.

"Why won't you let me just stay inside on Halloween!?" Touma demanded. "With all the black cats around, I can't risk it!"

"You believe in superstitious nonsense like bad luck from cats?" Accelerator asked incredulously. "What are you, five?"

"Can you honestly say after everything you have learned recently," Touma challenged. "That stuff like bad luck omens can't be real?" Accelerator crossed his arms and huffed, but didn't respond. "This Kamijou can't take that risk. Can you imagine what would happen if my luck got worse?"

"Girls would rain down from the sky?" Jason guessed and everyone except Touma laughed.

"You underestimate it and I have learned what happens when I do," Touma warned. "We would probably disturb some ancient Halloween spirits that would rise from the grave and try to destroy the city."

"I think you have been hanging around that adorable little nun of yours too much," Pierce laughed. "Her superstitious beliefs are rubbing off on you."

I really want to see Stiyl's face if he heard Aogami call Index that, Motoharu thought. "Ignoring your luck," Motoharu continued. "You know how rude it is to deny them your presence after they sent us such a nice invitation?"

"They don't want me," Touma protested. "They want Kami."

"Same thing," Jason said.

"You guys know that. They do not!"

"Quit being a baby," Accelerator snapped. "You let these idiots get you into it. You deal with the fall out."

"As if you are one to talk!" Touma accused. "You get sucked up into their stupid plans too."

"Nah," Accelerator dismissed with a wave of his hand. "I only go along because I get to watch you suffer." Motoharu and Pierce grinned at each other, while Jason messaged people on his phone. The entire reason the five of them gathered was to discuss the letters they received. Each of the letters were obviously from the same sender, as they were orange and black Halloween theme invitations. Touma glanced down at his own letter and read it again silent. It was handwritten in fancy calligraphy, rather than being typed up.

Dear Kami-sama,

We cordially invite you and your friends to Tokiwadai High School's annual Halloween formal, to take place at 6pm Halloween night. There will be dancing, food, and games to celebrate the holiday. We sincerely hope you can attend and, should you accept, have a pleasant time. For your convenience, we have also sent invitations to Misaka-sama, Shokuhou-sama, and Accelerator-sama, along with your other friends. You may bring guests as we do not know all your acquaintances that were not in attendance during the game. Our formal is also a costume party and everyone in attendance will be required to wear one for entry. Please let us know if you are able to attend.

Sincerely,

Yuna Ishikawa

Tokiwadai High School Elected Representative.

P.S. I take no pleasure in reminding you that your friend, Pierce Aogami, has been banned from the Tokiwadai premises since his action after the Cop and Robbers' game, henceforth called 'The Incident'. In hopes it might sway your opinion, he has been given an opportunity to attend, only on his assurance he will behave himself in a proper manner. Again, we take no pleasure in this reminder and hope we can all have a pleasant formal.

Touma was a little surprised about the invitation he received yesterday, but he shouldn't have been that surprised. Kami had been extremely popular when we first arrived at that school and he occasionally had to be seen in public. The girls must have thought it was their duty to repay him for the attention and entertainment he had given them. He also had suspicion that Yuna orchestrated this because there was another piece of paper. The note on this one was most likely written without the advice or consent of the other girls.

Kami-sama,

Sorry for the formalities, but our customs dictate such an action. We are really looking forward to seeing you and your friends again. The reason for this note is I wanted to give you a friendly reminder. While some of us have real world experiences, some of the students here have very little interactions with boys. You might want to make sure your costume is not to stimulating, though I doubt Hanabi would mind too much. Let me know if you can make it.

Yuna Ishikawa

Her number was written right below her name. Touma finished reading and glanced over at Pierce. "I never did find out how you two kept Fukiyose and Anti-Skill from tracking me down after that game. What exactly is 'The Incident'?"

"Don't worry about it," Pierce answered and waved his hand dismissively. "It's over and I promise to behave." Touma eyed him in silence. "Hey, just because I love all girls, doesn't mean I harass them. 'The Incident' was a complete misunderstanding. The collateral damage would have been avoidable if there hadn't been one." Touma looked at the others for confirmation.

"I wasn't there," Jason answered.

"I don't care," Accelerator explained.

"It allowed you all to escape," Motoharu pointed out. "You should be praising us for our quick thinking." Pierce nodded in agreement.

"No." The decision from the rest of them was unanimous.

"If they invited Mikoto and Misaki," Touma muttered. "I bet the others will be coming too." He turned to Accelerator. "Are you really coming?"

"No," he snapped. "The brat wants to go trick or treating with the nun and someone has to chaperone. Do you forget how much trouble those two can get into?" Touma opened his mouth, shut it, and nodded.

"Not to worry," Motoharu told them. "Kanzaki told me she was going to go with Index, so that should be covered." Accelerator stared at him for a moment before making a clicking noise with his tongue. "Hah, knew he would try to weasel out of this."

"We didn't even have to blackmail him," Pierce commented. The killing intent emitting from Accelerator would have caused normal people to release their bowels.

"To be fair," Jason piped up. "He might need to stay back to monitor Worst. Wasn't she planning to rob children of their candy?"

"Maybe we should tell her about the party," Touma suggested. He saw where this was going. If he was going to suffer, he could at least get a little payback against Accelerator for all the times his offhanded comments got him into trouble. "That way, he could keep an eye on her." Accelerator's killing glare turned toward him.

"Don't you even think about it," Accelerator warned with pure venom in his voice. "I'll kill you, or at the very least tell that nun of yours some of your… escapades."

"He's getting better at threats," Motoharu whispered to the other two. Pierce and Jason nodded.

"No matter what we do," Touma told Accelerator. "Those three are going to drag us into it."

"We could kill them and hide the bodies," he suggested.

"…Wait until after the party and see if they deserve it," Touma replied.

"Fine," Accelerator relented. "I'll go, if only to get away from Worst and the other brats. It's the damn high school, so their might be someone somewhat intelligent to talk to. Not like I get it here."

"I'm hurt," Jason cried in pretend aguish. Accelerator flipped him off.

"Now than," Pierce said. "The most important part of Halloween, besides seeing girls in sexy costumes and candy, our costumes."

"We are not doing a fucking group thing," Accelerator snapped.

"Of course not," Motoharu agreed. "But instead of letting you guys choose boring costumes, we came up with something interesting." Pierce pulled out a hat with five pieces of paper in it. "You will be deciding the costume of the person you draw."

"No!" Touma and Accelerator denied instantly. Jason seemed mildly interested.

"What if we add some restrictions?" Pierce said. "Like no female costumes and nothing to elaborate so it fits in a budget. Unless someone is willing to fund the costume?"

"You two are planning something," Touma accused.

"Nah," Motoharu denied. "We just like to have fun."

"I'm okay with this," Jason said, after a minute.

"Why!?" Accelerator demanded. "You have worked with them enough against this damn hero here for you to realize this idiot's way of thinking."

"I have no idea what to dress up as," Jason replied. "And Kazari told me she, Kuroko, Misaka-san, and Saten-san were planning to do some group costume for Halloween." He laughed. "Besides, if you really hate whatever is chosen for you, it's not like we can force you, right?" He leaned over to Accelerator and began to whisper. "Besides, whoever gets Touma is the real winner."

"I heard that!" Touma shouted.

"Humph…. Fine." Accelerator relented and crossed his arms.

"Am I the only hold out?" Touma asked incredulously. Everyone else nodded and he threw his hands into the air. "Alright, but I warned you. This is all on you!" He pointed to Jason and Accelerator.

"Who wants to go first?" Pierce asked and held out the hat. Accelerator was surprisingly first, but it was mostly to get it over with. Touma and Jason followed with Motoharu and Pierce taking the last two. Touma looked down and saw that he had Pierce. Pierce had Accelerator, who had Jason, who had Motoharu, and Motoharu had Touma by default. "Okay, we have one week to get the costumes, so we need to let everyone know tonight."

"That's fine," Touma agreed. "I'm going to regret this, I just know it. Please remember this Kamijou is poor and I can't afford anything fancy."

"Oh," Motoharu said with a sly grin. "That will not be an issue."

I'm going to regret this, Touma realized immediately. Every warning sign went off in his mind.

"I can't believe they invited us too," Kazari exclaimed excitedly.

"You and Saten-san were part of the game," Mikoto pointed out. "So they knew you were our friends."

"Shame Shirai-san wasn't with us," Ruiko laughed and looked over at Kuroko. "But you are obviously coming with us, right?"

"Naturally," Kuroko replied and put her hand on her chest. "Onee-sama invited me immediately upon receiving the invitation." Mikoto had actually just mentioned it, but they both knew if Mikoto was going, she was taking her.

"So any ideas what we are going as?" Ruiko asked. "I drew up a blank for a group idea."

"Same," Kazari said.

"Kuroko and I did come up with one," Mikoto said tentatively. "How about detectives from the Victorian era? We can get the black and brown coats and caps easily enough, plus it will be warm for the cooler weather. Add some magnifying glasses and it will be a simple, but unique idea." She frowned. "We were debating what kind of costumes we expected to see at the high school. Our school's parties tend to be a little…" She struggled on how to explain it to Ruiko and Kazari.

"Rich and uptight?" Ruiko asked. "Sorry," she added apologetically when Kazari elbowed her in the side.

"In a way," Kuroko spoke up. "You're right. Dances are really formal at our school. I'm not sure how the high school compares, but it will probably be similar. Though, Ishikawa-san is rather unusual."

"She's like one of the guys," Mikoto agreed, referring to Touma and his friends. "Speaking of which, how many guests do you think they are bringing? We invited Birdway-san and she said her sister is in town, so she will probably come too."

"Jason didn't mention any guests," Kazari said. "But Accelerator-san might bring Last Order and Worst. Maybe classmates?"

"I'm worried about the ones we know," Kuroko sighed. "Didn't one of the ape's friends do something to get in serious trouble?"

"I vaguely recall hearing about some kind of incident," Ruiko confirmed. "But the details were few and sketchy."

"It's probably best we don't ask," Mikoto declared and the other girls nodded. I bet Shokuhou knows if I really had to find out. "But what do you think of our costume idea?"

"I like it," Ruiko declared instantly. "Detectives are cool and it totally suits us."

"I have no problems with it," Kazari added. "There was a cute pumpkin costume I was thinking about, but this is much better."

"We don't have a lot of extra spending cash," Ruiko admits. "We might have bought a little too much candy." Kazari and Ruiko did not make eye contact, but Mikoto and Kuroko got the message.

"I'm sure we can find a place that rents out the jackets," Kuroko reassured them. "The caps are easy enough to get…"

"Oh, if it isn't Shirai-san and Misaka-san," a confident female voice interrupted.

"…Oh, no." Kuroko grimaced for a second before turning around. "Hello, Kongou-san."

"Uiharu-san," Mitsuko greeted. "Saten-san. It is good to see you again."

"Likewise," they repeated.

"How are you four this fine day?" Mitsuko asked, as she unfolded her fan in front of her face.

"Pretty good," Mikoto answered. "We actually got invited to Tokiwadai High School's Halloween party and we were just settled on our costumes."

"That sounds interesting," Mitsuko replied curiously. "What are you going as?"

"Victorian Detectives," Kazari answered. "Unique and has a touch of class."

"A great decision," Mitsuko complemented and Mikoto, Kazari, and Ruiko beamed at her.

"Don't let us hold you up," Kuroko said rudely, but tried to cover it up. "I'm sure you have someone important to meet."

"Wannai-san and Awatsuki-san are currently working hard at their swim club," Mitsuko answered. "So I'm free for the moment."

"Actually," Ruiko spoke up suddenly. "You know Kongou-san, we can bring guests with us to the party. If you are free, would you like to come?" Kuroko shook her head vigorously when Mitsuko wasn't looking at her.

"Really?" Mitsuko sounded surprised and even raised an eyebrow.

"That's a great idea," Kazari added and clapped her hands together, ignoring Kuroko. "Wannai-san and Awatsuki-san can come too, assuming they are free."

"We really haven't done anything together for some time," Mikoto added in thought. "Sounds fun, actually. Are you free?"

"I would have to verify with my schedule," Mitsuko replied. "I am usually very busy, b-but I think I will be free. Halloween Eve, right?"

"At six, but we plan to meet up around five-thirty," Mikoto explained. "A costume is required, so I hope you have enough time."

"Hmm," Mitsuko murmured and tapped her shin with her fan. "That should be enough time and there are some simple, yet extravagant costumes I should be able to procure easily enough." She turned to the others. "I'll be happy to come with you. Thank you for the invite."

"Great," Kuroko moaned under her breath.

"So you aren't coming trick or treating with MISAKA? MISAKA asks in shock as MISAKA stares at you in disbelief."

"My idiotic classmates are dragging me to some lame party," Accelerator sighed from the couch. "With a bunch of brats, the original included."

"Can MISAKA come? MISAKA asks."

"You're too young," Accelerator lied. "Besides, if you come you won't get all that candy with the nun and that blonde girl."

"Her name is Fremea, MISAKA informs you as MISAKA knows it will take a long time for you to remember her name. And you are right about the free candy, MISAKA mutters to herself."

"Then it's okay if Misaka comes with you?" Worst asked sarcastically, after sticking her head into the living room. "Misaka should be old enough if the original is allowed to attend."

"You aren't going because then it will be an even bigger pain in the ass for me," Accelerator snapped.

"Now Misaka has to go. Misaka will sneak in if necessary."

"If you show up," Accelerator pointed out. "You won't be able to go tricking people and taking candy."

"Don't encourage her!" Aiho called from the kitchen.

"That is a tough decision," Worst mused. "Torture you or torture innocent kids? Misaka is leaning toward you."

"Good," Accelerator snapped. "Maybe the damn hero can save you and you will fall for him. Spend your life making him miserable."

"Aww," Worst cooed. "No need to be jealous. You're the only one for Misaka." A cough interrupted her and she turned toward Bayloupe. "Even if you have a girlfriend living with you. Is she going with you?"

"I haven't invited anyone," huffed Accelerator, but then he caught Aiho's eye from the kitchen. She was staring at him and it wouldn't be the first time Accelerator suspected she knew he and Bayloupe weren't really a couple. He had to act weird occasionally to make Aiho believe their lie. Trying to make up something else would be a hassle and Worst would never let him live that lie down. "The idiots and I decided to do to go. So, Bayloupe, you coming? It's on Halloween, but you need a costume."

"Huh?" Bayloupe was surprised he actually invited her. "Er, sure. Lessar had brought costumes for us so I can just take one of them. She's probably going to join us if Kamijou is there."

"He will be." Accelerator surprised her by chuckling. "But he might be in disguise." Bayloupe looked confused.

Frenda, Saiai, Shiage, and Rikou were staying far away from Shizuri, who was mumbling to herself while watching the news. They had been doing mission after mission and finally got a break. The problem was Halloween was fast approaching and none of them really celebrated it. Shiage was the only one who actually somewhat enjoyed it because a lot of girls took the opportunity to dress up in sexy outfits. The girls were too old to trick or treat and Shizuri hated the fact so many sluts were out there in public. She may enjoy showing off her body from time to time, but there was a time and place for everything. She had been really moody lately and snapped at the others for the slightest provocation.

This also meant Shiage had been hit by many different objects in a span of a couple hours.

"She's been running us ragged," Frenda complained quietly. Just because she hated doing back to back missions, doesn't mean she was brave enough to tell Shizuri that face to face. "Basically, I'm exhausted. We can't keep this up." She hadn't even seen much of her sister except when she said she was going trick or treating with friends.

"We super need to find out why she suddenly decided to accept too many missions," Saiai sighed. "It happens occasionally, but this is ridiculous."

"…perhaps she is upset for some reason?" Rikou suggested.

"Heh." Shiage forced a laugh. "Maybe she's upset she hasn't seen the boss lately." He went back to the manga he was reading before realizing the others were staring at him. "What?"

"…that seems possible," Rikou muttered.

"It seems unlikely," Saiai added. "When was the last time any of us super saw Kamijou, anyways?"

"We hung out with some of his friends last week," Shiage answered. "Guys' night."

"Yeah, we don't care about you guys getting together and hacking off." Saiai turned to the others. "I meant the important people." Shiage flicked her off and she stuck her tongue out at her. Rikou shrugged at Saiai and then patted Shiage on the back.

"He accompanied me on a shopping trip after I ran into some thugs," Frenda reminisced. "He pretended to be my boyfriend and then I persuaded him to help carry bags."

"He's a pushover most of the time," Saiai agreed. "But it's always a shock when he actually stands up to Mugino. Maybe we have to have him super join us on a mission?"

"Might be tough," Shiage commented and popped open a bag of chips. "I heard he got invited to a Halloween party as Kami. Bunch of his friends got invited too. Don't think they said which school it was, but I couldn't accept his invitation because… well, Mugino." When he and Rikou started dating, she had told him about Touma's alternate persona and he had found it hilarious like everyone else.

"That's it," Saiai declared, but forcefully kept her excitement down as to not alert Shizuri. "We have to get him to invite Mugino. She will be too busy trying to get a costume, we won't have time to think about missions. At least, for a little bit."

"I don't think she will," Frenda said. "Basically, she's not into school parties. I wouldn't mind going with him though." Saiai grinned and made a circle with one hand and put her index finger of her other hand through it. Frenda replied with a rude gesture.

"So it's settled," Saiai declared. "Hamazura, tell him to invite Mugino." Shiage opened his mouth to argue but quickly closed it when Saiai and Frenda glared at him. There was no point in arguing with them when they were like this. Shiage sighed, pulled out his phone, and typed a quick message.

Hey boss, you got a minute? He received a reply a few moments later.

Hey, sure. What's up?

You see, Mugino has been kind of overworking herself.

She does seem the kind of person to do that.

We were wondering if you might be able to help convince her to take a break.

I could try, but you know she doesn't like to listen to others. No idea how right now.

Actually, could you invite her to that party you mentioned?

Thought you were busy?

Busy because of Mugino overworking us. Get her to come and the rest of ITEM will come too.

Well, I suppose. You all have gone through some crazy stuff because of me. Give me a minute.

"He's going to try," Shiage informed the others.

"…it will be an uphill battle," Rikou said and put her head on the table.

"So… a costume party," Frenda mused to herself. "Basically, that means I need a costume that will dazzle everyone."

"Good point," Saiai agreed. "We don't have much time."

"Look!" Frenda ordered in a hushed voice while pointing to Shizuri. Everyone grew quiet and turned to see Shizuri pick up her phone that had just buzzed. They could see part of her face and she had raised an eyebrow. Shizuri sent a message and received one a few seconds later. She actually frowned this time and continued to send messages back and forth. Frenda was sure there was actually a small smirk on Shizuri's face. She finally set her phone down and looked up at the ceiling.

"Did it work?" Shiage asked.

"Be quiet," Frenda and Saiai snapped.

"Hey!" Shizuri snapped and everyone sat up straight.

"What is it?" Saiai asked. "Do we super have another mission?"

"No," Shizuri replied. "Kamijou invited us to a stupid Halloween costume party. Figured we could use a break. Any of you interested?"

"Any restrictions?" Frenda asked.

"It's at Tokiwadai High," Shizuri said. "So full of those naïve rich girls. Anything risqué would be hilarious." She kicked the table in front of her and it moved a couple feet. "That idiot decided to only give us a couple days to fucking find costumes. It's like his brain doesn't work half the time." Frenda and Saiai turned to each other and grinned.

"Mugino," Shiage volunteered. An idea had come to him. A suicidal, insane idea that might get him killed, but this was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Not only could he possibly get his girlfriend in this costume, but the others too. He might be able to pass it off as a way to get attract attention and possible embarrass Touma. Sorry boss. I can't let this chance slip through my fingers. "I actually have a suggestion."

Frenda and Saiai would just be casualties.

"Thanks for inviting us," Patricia told Mikoto, Ruiko, Kazari, and Kuroko. Mitsuko and her friends were walking right behind them, talking excitedly among themselves. "I don't know many people around my age here, so attending a party with friends is going to be fun." Mikoto had invited Patricia and her sister to the party as their guests. They occasionally hung out, but she was often busy with her research work and therefore did not have a lot of free time. She was currently wearing a white dress down to her ankles. Attached to her back was a pair of white wings and then a halo was suspended above her head from a small pole attached to her back. She had come as an angel. "Love the group costumes by the way."

"Thanks," Mikoto replied. "It wasn't a problem." She and the others had found the brown pants and jackets, along with the caps. They had been granted permission to take a couple magnifying glasses from school to use as part of the outfit.

"I kind of owe you too," Ruiko said to Leivinia. "For letting me come on that one trip." Leivinia nodded in agreement. "So how did you two decide who was wearing which?"

"As the responsible older sister, I let her choose first," Leivinia answered. She was wearing a similar style red dress, but instead of angel wings, she had a pair of red devil wings and a tail. A headband with two horns adorned her head. She also carried a red pitchfork in one hand. "If I took the one she wanted, she would start crying."

"N-no I wouldn't!" Patricia protested. "And you aren't that much older!"

"But I am older," Leivinia said triumphantly.

"How has work been?" Kazari asked Patricia.

"About the same," Patricia answered after thinking about it. "You have the busy days and the slow days, but I find everything I've been learning fascinating, so it's not really work."

"When did you four meet those two?" Mitsuko asked Kuroko. "And does she really do research for the city?"

"She has a P.H.D already," Kuroko replied mildly. "And we met Patricia-san through another one of our friends. They work together occasionally." She decided to leave a lot of information about Jason, including the fact she had believed he was cheating on Kazari for Patricia. Kuroko glanced over her shoulder at Mitsuko, Kinuho, and Maaya. The three of them were clothed in typical European princess style and wore dresses in red, green, and blue respectively.

"That… is impressive," Mitsuko admitted. "Of course, to be complemented by one such as I is a huge honor."

"Yeah, yeah." Kuroko wasn't interested in arguing with her today. Not with her friends close by. Besides, they had just reached the gate to Tokiwadai High School and it opened up right when they walked up. There were lights on everywhere in typical orange filter. Decorations of Jack-o-lanterns, friendly ghosts, and typical Halloween decorations covered the grounds. Music could be heard coming from the gym and there was a lit stone walkway leading to the entrance. Three girls greeted them and Mikoto, Kazari, and Ruiko recognized them.

"Welcome!" Yuna greeted them, while Hibiki and Hanabi waved. "Right on time, great!" She was wearing a white nurse's outfit complete with hat and skirt. Attached to her hip was a small bag with what she considered props for her costume. It wasn't terribly revealing, the shirt had short sleeves, but the skirt was extremely short, even by Tokiwadai uniform standards. Hibiki and Hanabi were wearing long red and black dresses, equipped with a high collar, and a cloak. When they talked, small pairs of fangs were visible. They had dressed up as vampires. "Misaka-san, Uiharu-san, Saten-san, a pleasure to see you all. Who are your guests?" There was a short break as everyone introduced themselves.

"Did the others not arrive with you?" Hanabi asked and looked passed them. "We thought you, Kami-san, Accelerator-san, and Shokuhou-san would all come together."

"I think the guys are planning to come together," Mikoto replied.

"They are," Kazari confirmed. "Jason just texted me they are almost here."

"We might as well wait for them," Ruiko suggested.

"I hope those guys took the advice about dressing appropriately," Hibiki sighed. "I swear, if they come half naked…"

"Would they do that?" Patricia asked. Kazari and Ruiko remained silent.

"…well…" Mikoto could not truly answer her. Kuroko was the one to speak.

"I'm sure Kami will be dressed up in something stupid," Kuroko said. "His friends will pressure him into it."

"Oh, definitely," Leivinia laughed. "I am looking forward to seeing this." Hibiki rubbed the bridge of her nose.

"They are guys," Mitsuko pointed out. "What did you expect?"

"I never attended a party with boys our age," Kinuho said. "This is exciting."

"Are they really as wild as you say?" Maaya asked Mitsuko.

"They are," Mitsuko replied and stood up straight. "Though there are a couple who can behave like gentlemen when they need to."

"Just be careful when they are in groups," Yuna warned. "Boy's lose IQ points when they are together because they like to one up each other." All the girls laughed at this.

"Looks like Shokuhou-san just arrived," Hanabi announced. "And…wow." The other girls all turned around and their mouths fell open. Misaki had only arrived with two other girls, but it was her outfit that was giving them looks.

"Hello," Misaki greeted them and smiled. Her eyes fell onto Mikoto and she suddenly felt a swarm of irritation at the superior look in Misaki's eyes. Misaki could tell the girls were admiring her outfit. It was a white and black maid outfit, with several major alterations. Intersecting strings were across her stomach, instead of being solid cloth. There was some red on the fringes of the bottom half of the outfit. Long white spider web gloves and socks covered most of the skin on her arms and legs. There was also a pair of tall white rabbit ears on her head. "It's not too much?" she asked innocently and spun around. "I had to make a few modifications from the original design and even added a slightly longer skirt." If that was what she considered a longer skirt, most of the others could only imagine what it was before. The two girls behind her were wearing much more normal black and white maid uniforms.

"Wow!" Kazari said in awe. "It's so bold."

"I'm glad you took our advice and made it more suitable for the party," Hibiki stated. "But still…"

"It's Halloween," Misaki laughed. "We can be a little more bold than usual."

Little more, she says. Mikoto was not amused. She knew what this was all about.

"Looks like someone is trying to get some attention," Leivinia pointed out, her eyes on Misaki's chest.

"It certain will," Patricia added. "Are you trying to impress someone?"

"A girl has to have some secrets," Misaki replied with a wink. Mikoto and Kuroko looked at each other and sighed. "I don't believe we have met. I'm Misaki Shokuhou." Everyone quickly introduced themselves, though Misaki definitely felt Leivinia knew her from their brief greeting. Mitsuko and her friends awe which than was more what Misaki was used to when introducing herself. While they were used to Mikoto and her friends, Misaki was an entirely different person. A few polite compliments on their dresses and receiving a few in return were enough to break the ice.

"It's good to see you were able to make it," Yuna said to Misaki.

"I could hardly turn down an invitation like this," Misaki replied sweetly. "Especially since they were kind enough to invite so many of my friends."

"Most of our school voted to invite everyone," Hanabi explained. "Normally, boys are not allowed, but a few students," her eyes fell on Yuna, "worked out to persuade the principal."

"Nice one," Ruiko said to Yuna and gave a thumbs up.

"It was actually pretty easy when I presented a petition with over ninety-five percent of the students' signing," Yuna told them.

"It probably helps that your school is outside the school gardens," Mitsuko pointed out. "The security isn't nearly as high."

"You will be surprised," Hibiki said. "They have caught quite a few boys trying to sneak in and they were punished pretty harshly."

"Boys do try to sneak into the School Gardens," Kinuho said reasonably. "I heard there are one to two cases a week."

"Then there was the boy who snuck into the dorms to see a girl," Maaya added. "Not sure what happened to him." Everyone had turned to them and missed Mikoto and Misaki exchange a look in silence. Touma's escapades were becoming widely known and there wasn't a lot they could do about it except try to keep the person anonymous.

"So we only have Kami, Accelerator, their friends, and any guests they brought with them," Yuna said and looked at a piece of paper. "Would you all like to join the party now or wait for them out here?"

"I think we should wait," Mikoto said instantly.

"I agree," Misaki added. "It would be rude not to." The only person who didn't seem interested in waiting was Leivinia, but Patricia quickly convinced her to. They didn't have to wait long before they heard voices on the other side of the wall.

"… come on, we still have a chance to turn around and do something normal!"

"Quit being a baby, you will be the life of the party."

"Boss, you will get all the girls in that."

"Unlike Hamazura because he's super dressed like a kid."

"I can't believe he convinced you all to dress up like that. Losers."

"Shut it, albino. He invited as at the last minute."

"Hang on. We have to make the announcement."

"No, not that. I'll knock some sense-…" The last person's words were muffled by something. A second later, two boys walked out from behind the school wall and through the gate. Motoharu and Pierce stopped the second they saw the girls.

"Oh, hey!" Pierce acknowledged them with a wave and a grin. Many of them thought he would dress in some kind of perverted costume, especially Yuna, Hibiki, and Hanabi after The Incident. Instead, he was dressed in a blue and white shirt and blue jeans. A red and white cap was on his head, along with a Pikachu plushy attached to his shoulder. On his belt, several toy pokeballs hung down. "This makes things easier. We were just about to announce Kami's presence to the party."

"Where is he?" Yuna asked.

"He tried to run," Motoharu laughed. "And we wouldn't have that." The girls looked at each other. Compared to Pierce, Motoharu was dressed a lot more elaborately. He was in a full length white robe that was teal on one side. A gold belt was tied around his waist, along with gold markings and trim. A white symbol in the middle looked like three drops spinning around inside a half circle. He had sandals and a very tall pointed hat. He was holding a golden staff, with the top in a large circle around a golden sun. Several rings hung from the circle and purple robe was tied about halfway up it. He was dressed up at an Onmyouji, a practitioner of The Way of Yin and Yang. This would have to be explained to the girls at some point, but most of them figured he was some kind of priest.

"Bring him in!" Pierce yelled over his shoulder. The sound of a struggle was heard before one person was pushed out from behind the wall and in front of the gate. All the girls' mouths fell open in shock and they could only stare.

The girls who know him well could tell the masked individual was Touma, though the black kanji saying Kami on the red cape was a dead giveaway. Touma was wearing bronze helmet, bracers, and greaves. He was also wearing a red kilt to cover his lower body, but didn't even reach his knees. This was the only compromise the others would let him have. In one hand, he held a large bronze shield and the other a basic spear. An iridescent lens on the helmet obscured the face from the masses and most likely his embarrassment. No one doubted what he was: a Spartan hoplite. The reason they were staring, and a few of them might have been drooling slightly, was he had no chest armor.

Actually, nothing was covering his chest.

"Err… hey everyone?" he said nervously and waved his hand with the spear. Everyone was silent for a moment before someone burst out laughing.

"AHAHAHA!" Leivinia had to hold her side from laughing. "It was worth coming just to see this!"

"Birdway?" Touma asked surprised. "Why are you here?"

"My sister was invited," Leivinia explained and jabbed a thumb to Patricia. "I only tagged along."

"Hello," Patricia said waving. "It's… nice to meet you?" Everyone was beginning to get over their stunned stupor. Kazari and Ruiko had begun to giggle, while Kuroko face palmed. Mitsuko, Kinuho, and Maaya were still staring. Out of all of them, they had the least experience with boys, especially half naked ones. It was probably a good thing Mitsuko did not recognize who Kami really was.

"We even warned you to dress appropriately!" Hibiki yelled at him. "Don't you know what that means?"

"Not sure what you are talking about?" a snide voice answered her. Everyone turned to see the rest of Touma's group walking up. Leading the way was Accelerator. It was obvious he didn't put any effort into his costume. He was wearing a pair of white wolf ears and had attached a tail to the back of his pants. Other than that, it was his normal clothes. Only the guys knew the true purpose of the costume. It was actually designed to be a group costume with Last Order and Worst. Last Order was trick or treating as little red riding hood and Worst had dressed up as a hunter. Aiko had taken a lot of pictures before he left and he swore to kill anyone outside of the immediate group who lived in his apartment. "Maybe you are just too much of a prude?"

"You actually decided to show up?" Hibiki asked. "Didn't have anyone else to hang out with?"

"I did," Accelerator laughed mockingly. He was going to enjoy bringing her down a few. "But she was interested in coming." He pointed to Bayloupe, who had just walked up. She looked at him confused.

"Huh?" She was wearing a black and blue skin tight outfit with black wings and horns. Lessar decided that all of her costumes had to be sexy and thus, they were all succubi. Bayloupe had grabbed the least revealing one and it was still a little uncomfortable, but she put up with it. She could have sworn she caught Accelerator watching her occasionally out of the corner of his eye. Even if he was irritable, Lessar was right, he was still a guy. "Right. I thought it would be fun and I knew Lessar was going to be coming anyways. Someone has to keep an eye on her." Hibiki's eyes widened in shock.

"No one has to keep an eye on me," Lessar protested and everyone turned to look at her. She was in a similar outfit to Bayloupe, except in purple and black. Though, Lessar didn't fill it out quite as well, not that she would ever believe that. When everyone saw her, many started to snicker. She had her arms tied to her side by Jason's shadow and the owner of the shadow was walking up from behind her. "You can let me go anytime now."

"We tried that," Jason pointed out. "And then you tried to do things to Kami."

"Well, duh," Lessar said with a roll of her eyes. "Did you see his bare chest? Who could resist that?"

"Yes, yes," Jason agreed in a monotone. "I will be dreaming of it for weeks." Kazari giggled and walked to him. "But I suppose I can let you go for now." Lessar grinned when his shadow retracted.

"I like your costume," Kazari told him. "Caesar?"

"Yep," Jason confirmed. "We randomly drew a lottery to determine who selected everyone's costume for fun. Accelerator got me and just said some officer from another period and Julius Caesar was common enough to find a costume for that." He was wearing bronze armor designed to look antique over a red shirt with a red cape. He had a small circular wreath made of interlocking branches on his head.

"Who chose the ape's costume?" Kuroko asked.

"Tsuchimikado."

"Of course he did."

Meanwhile, Touma had been swarmed by the girls. Misaki, Mikoto, Ruiko, Yuna had to drag Hanabi over, and Lessar. "Sorry we are late," Touma told them. "We had to wait for a few people."

"Uh huh," Mikoto said. "Was it you?"

"It was us," Shiage informed them. The girls had been too busy staring at Touma, they completely missed the large white rabbit. Only Shiage's face was visible in his costume and whiskers had been drawn on.

"Everyone," Touma announced. "This is Shiage Hamazura, a friend of mine. And most of you know Mugino and her friends." Mikoto and Misaki coughed when they saw what the girls behind Shiage were wearing.

They were all dressed up as bunny girls.

"Seems like we had similar ideas," Misaki commented in a voice of determined calm.

"Indeed," Shizuri answered curtly. Her skin tight leotard was purple and she had attached a white puffball tail and ears. The others had different color leotards, but otherwise looked the same. Frenda was red, Saiai was white, and Rikou was black. Rikou however, was standing deliberately next to Shiage and closely watched any girls approaching him. "We didn't get a lot of time to prepare when… Kami… invited us. Hamazura thought it would be funny to suggest this and, of course, we had to stick him in his own."

"Better than wearing the blue version of your costumes," he muttered.

"But you look so fluffy," Patricia said. "I could just give you a hug." Rikou moved closer to Shiage and gripped his arm tightly.

"I can't believe how bold they are," Maaya said to Mitsuko. "I would never be able to wear something like that in public."

"Even our swimsuits cover more," Kinuho added.

"Well," Mitsuko said, quickly recovering. "I could have worn a costume like that, but I was under the impression this was a high class party from Tokiwadai High. Also, I would dress to the same level as you two anyways. We are friends and should stick together."

"You're so thoughtful," Kinuho beamed and Maaya nodded.

"Of course," Mitsuko laughed nervously. She seriously doubted if she could wear something like that to a party if it wasn't for a modeling job. Her body was naturally flawless, but having people, especially boys, ogling her body would be embarrassing. Besides, the only boy she really knows well wouldn't do something like that and she was kind of disappointed she didn't invite him to come.

"Isn't it cold without a shirt?" Ruiko asked Touma. The girls had seen his chest before, but something about wearing armor made it look more muscular.

"A little," Touma admitted. "But the weather is a little warmer than it has been."

"Looks like some people decided to dress boring," Frenda said and gestured to Mikoto and Ruiko. "Basically, Halloween is supposed to be a time to dress naughty."

"We have some modesty," huffed Mikoto.

"Come on," Touma interrupted. "Let's not argue and have fun at the party."

"He's right," Yuna added and stepped into the middle of them. "Besides, we have a costume contest for individual and groups. You can settle your argument there."

"We are super going to win," Saiai declared and glanced over at Accelerator. He had turned away from Hibiki and walked over to Motoharu and Pierce, who were talking in low voices. Everyone began to introduce themselves to the people they didn't know and Hibiki took the opportunity to asked Bayloupe a question that had been bothering her.

"Are you really his girlfriend?" Hibiki asked. Bayloupe turned to her and they looked at each other in the eyes.

"Yes," Bayloupe answered.

"Okay," Hibiki said softly in a tone that revealed her surprise and skepticism. "How?"

"I kind of want to hear about that too," Saiai said and the other two turned to her. They hadn't seen her approach. While they continued talking, Mikoto, Misaki and Shizuri were beginning to have a heated discussion once Touma went over to talk to Hanabi and Yuna.

"I can't believe you two dressed up like… that," Mikoto hissed. "It's obvious why you did it."

"Sounds like someone is jealous," Misaki said and held a hand up to her mouth. "Just because we have the body to fill out these kinds of outfits, doesn't mean you should be jealous."

"Even though your childish demeanor still shows," Shizuri stated smugly. "You should have seen the way he looked at me when I arrived."

"Are you trying to convince me or yourself?" Misaki asked, as her eyes narrowed.

Leivinia watched her sister talking with several of the people there, but she preferred to stay back. It wasn't like Leivinia wasn't a social person, she just was picky on who she would socialize with. Most of the people there she knew, either by actually observing them or reading reports. A lot of them would just be a bother, so she didn't care about them. What she did pay attention too was some of the outfits of certain girls. The way their chests bounced with each movement and her hand subconsciously touched her own. Bunch of sluts, I should have worn something more noticeable.

"Trick or treat!"

Index, Last order, Hyouka, and Freama Seivelun, the little sister of Frenda, held out their bags as Komoe opened the door with a bowl of candy. She was wearing her pink bunny pajamas that doubled as a Halloween costume. In fact, that was one of the main reasons she had her parents buy it in the first place when she was a child. Since she never really grew in size, it became a comfortable every day pajamas and occasional costume.

"Hello, Index, Last Order!" Komoe greeted them enthusiastically. "I thought I would be seeing you here."

"Hehe," Index laughed. "We are planning to hit everywhere."

"I bet you are," Komoe laughed as she passed out the candy. "Let me see." She eyed Index's blue and white costume and Hyouka's black and gold one. "Magical girls?" They nodded happy and she turned to Last Order, who was wearing a red cape and her bag was actually a picnic basket. Her dress under the cape was red and white. "Little red riding hood?"

"Yep, MISAKA answers happily. Accelerator is dressed up as the wolf but he was invited to a high school party MISAKA says sadly as MISAKA droops her head."

"Then he is missing out on all the candy," Komoe told her and Last Order quickly agreed. She turned to the last girl. Freama was wearing a purple and pink stripped dress with a hood that contained two cat ears in the same color. A tail was attached to the back and two fuzzy boots completed the outfit. "I'm not sure what you are," Komoe stated apologetically. "But that costume looks really nice."

"I'm the Cheshire Cat," Freama explained and her smile never left her face.

"Oh! From Alice in Wonderland. I see it now. It's a great choice."

"I know," Freama agreed and puffed out her chest. "I worked hard on it, nyah!" Her smile flickered. "Isn't it boring to be stuck inside instead of trick or treating? You look around my age, so why don't you come with us, nyah?" Everyone grew silent.

"I-I'm a teacher!" Komoe declared, but was unable to contain a slight stutter. "I'm much older than you!"

"Huh?" Freama asked. "Do you know it's wrong to lie, nyah?"

"It's the truth!" Komoe declared.

"It's true," Index said. "She's Touma's teacher."

"She is," Hyouka also confirmed. "I have seen her working at the school."

"See," Komoe said to Freama, who tilted her head.

"But-…"

"The city experimented on her and stopped the aging process, MISAKA explains sadly as MISAKA hangs her head dejectedly."

"You know that is not true!" Komoe told her and Last Order covered her mouth to stifle a giggle. Komoe sighed when she realized it was a joke. "Accelerator's sense of humor has been rubbing off on you." Last Order only grinned back. "Okay everyone, have fun and stay safe." She closed the door and the girls left.

"I can't believe how much candy we are getting," Index said happily and quickly ate a handful. "And we barely even started!"

"Halloween in the best, MISAKA agrees. We should aim to get enough candy to last the entire year!"

"Or at least until Christmas when we get more, nyah," Freama corrected her. The girls laughed, but the fourth girl was silent.

Hyouka was pretty shy, but she would open up among her friends. Last Order and Freama were nice enough and Hyouka enjoyed their company, but they didn't know what she was. Most people would probably think she was a monster and she was glad Index did not tell them about what she really was. To index, she was a friend, and that was all that mattered. She treasured that. As a mark of their friendship, Index turned to her.

"Are you okay, Hyouka?" she asked. "You have been rather quiet."

"I'm fine," Hyouka lied and quickly came up with a reason for her silence on the spot. "I'm just not entirely comfortable with this outfit. It's a little revealing." The three girls looked her over again. Her stomach was bare and the chest piece didn't quite cover her rather large chest. Her lower part was covered, but it was rather tight and she shifted occasionally from discomfort. Last Order put a hand on her chest and sighed. Worst would always point out the size difference to bother her, but Hyouka didn't have a single mean bone in her body.

"But you look great," Index protested.

"I keep seeing guys look at me," Hyouka mumbled.

"Guys will always look at girls, MISAKA explains. Trust MISAKA. It's programmed into their DNA. You should take it as a compliment MISAKA adds as MISAKA wishes a certain guy would look at her." She mumbled the last part.

"Besides," Freama piped up. "If any guys bother you, we will take care of them. Nyah! It's time for us girls to be the heroes!" Hyouka's eyes widened and she started to laugh.

"Thanks," she said to them. "I feel better now. Who's ready for the next area? I think we got all the apartments here."

"I am!" The other three said in unison. Last Order and Freama grabbed onto Hyouka's arms and dragged her along. Index ran alongside them, happy all her friends were getting along so well. Behind the four girls, almost completely forgotten, were two older girls, Kaori Kanzaki and Floris. Both of them were in costumes they would rather not have been seen in, so they made sure not to draw attention to themselves. It wasn't possible though, especially Kaori. She had been tricked by Motoharu and Floris had been forced into one of Lessar's costumes. They had been told they had to wear costumes to accompany Index and her friends. With Eve in the city, Index could not be left alone.

They were rather upset after discovering the lie by watching other older people escorting younger ones.

Kaori only had one outfit, the black and white Erotic Fallen Angel Maid Outfit.

Floris had been stuck with the red and black succubus outfit.

"At least they are having fun," Kaori muttered to herself, after giving a group of high schoolers a glare that was almost capable of freezing blood when she caught them staring.

"Easy for you to say," Floris growled slightly. "Index is your close friend. I don't have any close relationship with any of them. I'm only doing this because Lancis volunteered to pass out candy and Bayloupe needed someone to help watch Last Order. Since she's snuck off with Accelerator to some party."

"You have a point," Kaori agreed. She had made a grave mistake. Motoharu had told her about the party he was going to attend with Touma. He had even offered to bring her along as his guest. Suspecting a trap, Kaori refused the offer and volunteered to watch over Index, even though Itsuwa had been willing to. Instead, Itsuwa then took over the role of passing out candy to the kids. Kaori realized now she should have accepted the offer, even if it meant showing Touma the outfit again. "But you know Index is going to be a prime target wandering around like this."

"True," Floris conceded. "This is the perfect chance for Eve to strike." She frowned and adjusted her outfit that was bunching up uncomfortably. "I'm going to kill Lessar," she muttered.

"I have to kill a pervert too," Kaori agreed. The two followed the other four girls, but still kept their distance. They were more chaperones than anything else. She looked around at all the kids in costumes and then felt the air change. The scent in the wind felt stale for a second and the temperature dropped. "Did you feel that?" she asked Floris, not sure if she had just imagined it or if Motoharu had been talking about her behind her back.

"For a second," Floris confirmed and glanced around. "Thought I might have imagined it, but if you felt it too… any ideas on what that was?"

"No," Kaori said with a shake of her head. "And Index didn't seem to have noticed anything, but she's being distracted. Keep on guard." Floris nodded and the two of them inched slightly closer to the other girls.

"Are you actually working tonight?" Kikyou asked Aiho. "Thought you were off."

"I was," Aiho confirmed and started to change out of her leopard Amazonian dress into normal clothes. "With the kids gone, figured I could have a break while you passed out candy. That call just now, I need to check in."

"Kids getting out of hand?"

"Not sure," Aiho replied and paused. Kikyou frowned at her expression. "Tessou confirmed there are just as many vandals as last year. Egging, teepeeing, you name it. There is also a suspect stealing candy from children who suspiciously fit Worst's description."

"Suspiciously," Kikyou repeated and adjusted her own leopard Amazonian dress. They both laughed for a moment. "We both know she did it."

"I like to give her the benefit of the doubt until we have proof," Aiho countered. "But this was within expectations, it was something else Tessou told me."

"What was it? Ghosts sighting?" Aiho grinned slightly.

"Could be," Aiho agreed and Kikyou frowned. She knew Aiho wasn't a believer in ghosts and spirits. "Decorations seem to have been moved to another. It's like they are shifting from outside the city and slowly being moved to the inside."

"Sounds like an elaborate prank by kids," Kikyou pointed out. "Just harmless fun."

"That's what I said," Aiho agreed. "But no one can figure out how so many decorations have been moved without anyone seeing them. This isn't just one or two pumpkins or ghost lamps being moved, hundreds of decorations are being swapped and more every minute."

"High level ability user? Teleportation or psychokinesis?"

"Possibly." Aiho grabbed her jacket. "I wouldn't go if it was just that. There were reports of a couple kids being attacked."

"Attacked?" Kikyou sat up straight. "By who?"

"Probably the pranksters moving the decoration," Aiho said coldly. "Reports said the decorations came to life. A scarecrow attacked a couple elementary school kids and a couple pumpkins attacked a middle schooler. I'm going to help stop this before it gets out of hand."

"Good luck." Aiho waved goodbye to Kikyou and left, the door slamming shut behind her. Kikyou rolled her eyes and went back to watching TV until more trick or treaters showed up. She glanced at her digital camera on the table next to her and flipped through the pictures. She stopped at one where Accelerator had last Order in his lap and Worst was leaning up against the chair he was sitting in. All were in their Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale costumes. Accelerator didn't look too happy, but the other two did. Kikyou flipped to the next picture and saw Accelerator and Bayloupe leaning against each other awkwardly. Kikyou chuckled to herself.

I should send a copy of these to his friends.

Inside the windowless building Aleister was monitoring Academy City like usual. Halloween was not something he partook in, but he noticed a pattern that should not have been there. Every major Halloween party a school threw had to be approved by the city. Sure there were small ones all over the place made by friends for friends, but they wouldn't generate enough collective belief to do anything. Looking at the pattern, he noticed one began to form and he frowned. Some of the schools had moved slightly on the grounds but not enough for most people to notice. Being able to move an entire building including underground pipes without setting off sensory alarms was not an easy feat, especially for half a dozen schools. He checked the security cameras and saw a young blonde girl using paper to move the schools.

Eve.

He should have known. She had been a constant thorn in his side, but she never directly went against his own plans. In fact, her appearance actually accelerated some advancements of his own, so he hadn't gone out to specifically eradicate her, until she actually attacked the level 5s. Noukan had forced her to retreat and she hadn't done anything suspicious except frequently visiting a certain smoothie stand. He turned his attention back to the chart with lights indicating the major Halloween parties. Aleister immediately spotted a pattern, but there was one light that didn't belong. The light flickered off and the natural circuit was formed.

So that was her plan. The Imagine Breaker is at that location and caused the resonance to break. The mana lines in the city are connecting to form that magic circle. There are three reasons for her to do this, one of which would affect me. If this is just her way of having fun, I will leave it to Anti-Skill. Should she be serious, I will have him deal with it. Sending Noukan out again will only give Eve more insight into his being.

Due to Eve's meddling, all the parties in the city formed a magic circle, with the one Touma Kamijou was attending being canceled. This circle might not have been a big deal, if not for the timing. Halloween was actually a pretty spiritual holiday, which was lost on the vast majority of today's youth. The holiday begins the three-day observance of Allhallowtide, the time in the liturgical year dedicated to remembering the dead, including saints (hallows), martyrs, and all the faithful departed. It marked the end of the harvest season and beginning of winter or the 'darker half' of the year. It was seen as a liminal time, when the boundary between this world and the Otherworld thinned. This meant the Aos Sí Celtic 'spirits' or 'fairies', could more easily come into our world and were particularly active

The Aos Sí were both respected and feared, with individuals often invoking the protection of God when approaching their dwellings. It was believed that the Aos Sí needed to be propitiated to ensure that the people and their livestock survived the winter. Offerings of food and drink, or portions of the crops, were left outside for them. The souls of the dead were also said to revisit their homes seeking hospitality. Places were set at the dinner table and by the fire to welcome them. The belief that the souls of the dead return home on one night of the year and must be appeased was found in many cultures throughout the world.

This is how trick or treat started.

Over the years, the holiday devolved into fun for children, rather than spiritual significance. However, the reason why so many people believed the dead rose on this day was because the ley lines within the earth changed ever so slightly. They would pass through towns and cities, while the mana collected the beliefs of the masses. The collection of beliefs merged with the mana and caused many strange occurrences, such as objects moving, apparitions people swore were family members, and spooking animals. This natural occurrence was about to cause some problems with the current position of Eve's magic circle. Her circle was a focusing device to channel the ley line energy right under the windowless building.

Even though the supernatural was not vastly believed in Academy City, during Halloween, a lot of students began to believe in ghosts and ghouls at least a little. Even older students would occasional have subconscious beliefs, like thinking something is there when it's not or imagining ghost stories when telling kids. Weak or not, these beliefs were being pooled together at the parties, and the ley lines were feeding it with mana. The collection was going to pool under Aleister's building and spread out through the city. The beliefs of ghost, spirits, and demons would begin to manifest and, from some of the radio calls Anti-Skill was passing out, decorations were beginning to collect the mana and come to life.

Aleister was more than a little annoyed.

Let it be reminded that Touma Kamijou, aka Kami the Harem King, was a teenage boy.

He may never have had a girlfriend, but that did not mean he didn't want one. Like most boys his age, he wanted one. The problem was he had considered himself plain and unlucky. This mentality kept him from noticing if a girl showed interest in him. His friends had pointed it out for ever, but he never believed him. Once he knew a couple girls liked him, he was a little more open. However, he was never prepared for this. Touma Kamijou might have been plain, but Kami was a unique existence that everyone wanted to meet. This is why it was not a smart idea for him to go into a school for a party.

A school full of hormonal girls.

Actually, scratch that. It was a great idea for normal people. Touma on the other hand…

"Can we slow down?!" He asked Yuna, as she pulled him through the crowd to meet everyone.

"Everyone wants to meet you," Yuna explained. "It's best to introduce you quickly so you can enjoy the party the rest of the time." Touma had to admit she had a point. The second he and his friends had walked in, all other action ceased. The high school girls in their variety of costumes turned to stare at him for a moment. A second later, the gym erupted in welcome. None of them necessarily shouted, it was just the numbers. Once they had swarmed him, he lost sight of most of the people he came with. Mikoto, Lessar, and Misaki seemed to be the ones trying to stay near. Two of them being level 5s, it kept the attention rather focused for the first twenty minutes or so. The others introduced themselves to random people and began to spread out.

"They seem to be enjoying themselves," Patricia giggled, as she Kazari, Jason, Kuroko, Ruiko and Leivinia went to grab some punch. They had finally escaped the high school girls and could talk among themselves for a little bit.

"If you enjoy being pulled around by your wrist," Leivinia commented. "Then yes, he should be."

"He won't take any action on his own," Jason laughed. "Someone has to push him. We can't be around forever." By we, he meant the guys. "Right?" He nudged Ruiko in the side.

"People don't know the real him," Ruiko said quickly. "They just see him for the mask."

"So you know him?" Kazari asked with a gleam in her eyes. "I thought we only met him once?"

"Oh, no," Kuroko moaned when Ruiko turned to Kazari in shock. "Jason's been rubbing off on her."

"Guilty," Jason snickered and put his arm around her. "Soon, she's going to act just like me."

"My nightmares are going to become real," Kuroko muttered and Kazari giggled.

"Just don't kick him in the head," Patricia warned.

"Kick in the head?" Kazari and Ruiko asked in confusion, even Leivinia looked interested.

"You didn't tell them?" Patricia asked Jason.

"Didn't really see the reason to," Jason said with a shrug. "It was a misunderstanding." Kuroko was actually a little shocked at the thoughtfulness. Mikoto didn't tell Kazari and Ruiko for obvious reasons how they met Patricia, but she expected Jason to tell Kazari at some point. Jason ruined the moment a second later. "But it's a funny story. You should definitely tell it." Ignoring Kuroko's protest, Patricia went on about how they met. Kazari was a little shocked, but Ruiko found it hilarious. Leivinia only half listened and peered around at the others.

These parties are so boring, she thought. And I have to wait for the hype to die around Kamijou before I move in. She saw Lessar trying to get as much skin time as possible between introductions, while Mikoto and Misaki looked peeved. Yuna seemed to find it funny and Hanabi had the obvious twinge of jealousy on her face. She should learn to act instead of being so passive. Her eyes traveled to the far wall where Accelerator was leaning. Bayloupe, Hibiki and Saiai were the only girls near him, but a group of high school girls were a little off, constantly stealing glances at him. Heh, they couldn't be more obvious or desperate. The albino doesn't want to be here and only tolerates those three.

Leivinia glanced around to find the final level 5. She was the one Leivinia was most interested in. Shizuri's eyes held the darkness and experience Leivinia could appreciate. She quickly located her target on the other side of the gym with Frenda, Shiage, and Rikou. A small group of girls were talking to her and she was replying with a cheerful expression, but the smile never reached her eyes. Leivinia could tell Shizuri did not want to be here. Frenda seemed to be more used to these things and Leivinia passed over her. Shiage seemed to be attracting a lot of attention in his childish outfit, which the Tokiwadai girls seemed to find cute. Leivinia wouldn't admit it, but it was kind of appealing. His girlfriend seemed to register the threat and pulled at his arm until he joined her on the dance floor. Can't believe those girls are willing to dress like sluts. Desperate much? At least one of them realizes the boys are popular.

She glanced over at Jason, who seemed to be gathering a bit of attention. Kazari definitely noticed it, because she scooted closer to him. A moment later, probably because he noticed her discomfort, he took her hand and they moved to the dance floor. A couple other girls started offering to dance with Ruiko, Patricia, and Kuroko. Leivinia declined and glanced over at the group of three girls she did not know very well that came with her. Kongou and her friends seemed to be having a pleasant conversation with a group of girls. That wasn't a surprise to her. They were all spoiled rich girls. A sudden movement caught the corner of her eye and she saw one of the girls slap Pierce across the cheek while Motoharu shook his head and laughed.

Why am I here? Leivinia knew the answer. One, it would allow her to spend time with her sister, which work constantly kept them separated. The second, she wanted to bother Touma. It was a lot of fun and she had a kind of sadistic side, which her minions found out if they dared disobey or embarrass her. Mark had to be taught that many times. A shiver went down her spine out of nowhere and she frowned. She didn't sense anything, but her instincts were usually right. Something was happening, even if it wasn't related to a magician. She pulled out her phone from a hidden pocket and sent a message to Mark to keep her updated.

"Why did you come if you didn't want to be here?" Bayloupe asked Accelerator.

"Those idiots would spend the next month annoying me if I didn't," Accelerator muttered. "I'm biting the bullet."

"You should have stayed away," Hibiki told him. "You are bringing down the vibe."

"Annoying you was only a bonus," Accelerator continued. "Why are you even over here?"

"Someone has to make sure you don't do something stupid," Hibiki explained curtly and the mumbled the second half. "And to make sure no one else does anything stupid."

"What do you think he's going to do?" Bayloupe asked.

"Blow up the gym like he did to our school yard last time."

"Blow up a building?" Accelerator laughed. "When have I ever done that?"

"When you and I met the number two," Saiai volunteered. "That building super blew up."

"Huh." Accelerator thought about it for a moment. "Oh, yeah. Wasn't my fault though, he did it." He looked over at Saiai. "You weren't completely useless that fight."

"I have known you long enough to know that's a compliment coming from you," Saiai scoffed, but grinned internally.

"Careful brat," Accelerator growled. "I'm not afraid to sending you flying." Saiai stuck her tongue out at him.

"Bring it," she challenged. As the two of them continued to argue, Hibiki leaned next to Bayloupe.

"Is he forcing you to be his girlfriend?" Hibiki asked. "If he is, let me know. I'll find a way to take care of this."

"No," Bayloupe answered. This was actually true. Accelerator was not forcing this charade, they had agreed on it for other reasons. This girl is pretty persistent. I can understand the initial shock if they actually know Accelerator, but she's on this a lot more than most. Oh… he, I know why. She likes him. This will be fun. No one could say Bayloupe didn't know how to claim her territory. Lessar was the teaser, Bayloupe was the leader. "Actually," Bayloupe whispered to Hibiki, who had to lean closer to hear. "I approached him and didn't let up until he said yes." Hibiki's eyes widened. "I'm dressed up as a succubus for a reason, and I don't take kindly when someone else tries to take my prize."

Hibiki wasn't able to respond to that declaration for a moment, until her brain clicked. "Heh, I'm not one to give up without a fight."

"He doesn't even register you except for a target of his irritation," Bayloupe told her. "Just give up and stop bothering him."

"You really are a demoness," Hibiki hissed. "Did you throw yourself naked at him?"

"Didn't have to," Bayloupe huffed superiority. "When you look as good as I do, nothing is out of reach." Hibiki opened her mouth red faced, but before she could say anything, she and Bayloupe noticed something. Accelerator had followed Saiai to the refreshment area.

"How did that happen?!" They asked in unison.

"How did that happen?" Frenda asked Shizuri in shock, when she noticed Saiai and Accelerator moving together across the gym. "Basically, what did she bribe him with?"

"About time," Shizuri answered with a yawn. "I was wondering when she was going to asked him. She's not exactly oblivious. It might actually be beneficial if he gets close to her. We might be able to use him."

"If you say so." Frenda looked around the gym. "How long do we have to stay? Basically, it's boring here."

"I don't like it either," snapped Shizuri and then quickly replaced her expression with false kindness as a couple people passed. "But think of it as practice for blending in."

These costumes don't exactly blend in, Frenda thought, but didn't voice her concern for fear of death. "Kamijou is still stuck surrounded by people."

"We knew he would be. The brats here rarely interact with boys. In fact, all the guys here are getting notice, except for the blue haired idiot."

"So what are you planning to do, Mugino?"

"I feel like dancing," Shizuri declared and started to walk toward the dance floor. Frenda watched her march up to Shiage and Rikou to cut in. Rikou slunk off next to Frenda and she could have sworn there was a dark shadow on Rikou's face.

Second Kamijou is free, I should cut in. Frenda made a fist in determination as she glanced over at Touma.

"Could you do me a favor?" Kazari asked Jason.

"Sure. What is it?"

"Can you ask Shirai-san if she wants to dance?"

"That's an unusual request," Jason whispered to her. The two of them began to make their way off the dance floor. "What brought this on?"

"She's been off with Leivinia-san," Kazari pointed out. "And constantly glancing at Misaka-san with Kamij- I mean Kami-san." She decided to not mention it to Jason that Kuroko kept glancing at them too. "I bet she's lonely since Misaka-san is… preoccupied with Shokuhou-san. At least Leivinia-san has done a little with Patricia-san." The sisters told everyone they could refer to them with their first names tonight to avoid confusion when addressing them. "I feel bad she's not enjoying herself."

"Wouldn't it be better for Misaka-san to help out? We could let her know."

"It's just…," Kazari carefully phrased her words. "You have a way in cheering her up."

"Ah." Jason understood. "Okay." He spun around on his foot. "I'll lay on the charm." Kazari immediately moved to reduce this dangerous situation.

"You could probably dial it back a bit," she suggested.

"Nope," he replied with a laugh. "I always go all out." Kazari sighed, but she still smiled. Regardless how much Jason and Kuroko argued, she knew they enjoyed each other's' company. She walked over to the refreshments, grabbed some punch, and walked over to Ruiko, who seemed to be talking about a couple rumors involving the school.

"Hey, Uiharu," Ruiko greeted her. "Taking a break?"

"Little tired," Kazari answered. "Figured Jason might want to talk to someone else while I got something to drink." Ruiko chuckled when she located him talking to Kuroko.

"You got a good guy," one of the girls told Kazari. "Not bad looking, interesting, and funny."

"Not as cute as the guy in the bunny suit," one of the others pointed out. "But his girlfriend is so possessive. She watches anyone who approaches him like a hawk. That's definitely a turn off."

"Do you think there's any truth to the rumors about the level 5s dating Kami-sama?" a third girl asked. "They haven't left his side since they arrived. Don't know who that third girl is though."

"Her name's Lessar," Kazari explained. "We met her when our group vacationed in England during break. She's visiting Academy City for a little bit."

"That makes sense," the first girl said with a nod. "She's been saying a few things that don't make a lot of sense, but must be slightly vulgar based on everyone's reactions."

"They… probably were," Ruiko admitted. "She tends to take jokes a little far. But you can learn a lot from her once you get passed that."

"What can you tell us about the other two guys with Kami-sama?" the second girl piped up again. "They are funny, but the one with blue hair is kind of creepy."

"We don't know a lot about him actually," Kazari admitted. "He wasn't with us. Tsuchimikado-san is smart, but I think he uses his brains to tease Kami-san more often than he should. He's funny when he wants to be and can be serious and resourceful when the situation calls for it."

"I think you only see them when they are not at their best," Ruiko added. "We were told guys seem to get dumber the more of them there are. It's some kind of male thing."

"Hibiki says the same thing," the first girl agreed. All the girls laughed and moved onto other subjects. Kazari was having fun, but she continued to keep an eye on Kuroko and Jason. She wasn't necessary possessive, but that didn't mean she didn't get jealous if other girls tried to approach her boyfriend. Most of them were just being nice with their guests, but some obviously had other ideas. She trusted Jason not to fall for their advances, but logic didn't always apply to romance.

"Sup Kuroko," Jason greeted, as he slid next to her.

"Oh, it's you. What do you want?" Kuroko was kind of bored. Mikoto was busy with the ape and she had promised not to try to get between them. Kazari had been busy with Jason and Kuroko was not nearly as sociable like Ruiko. Ruiko could pretty much enter any group and talk to them like old friends. Shizuri and her friends were out, which only left the Birdway sisters. Patricia was nice enough, but quickly got lost into the party. Leivinia was more reserved and they only had a quick conversation before that dried up. Most of the Tokiwadai girls wanted to talk about the boys attending, something she didn't really want to at this time. Mitsuko was Kuroko's rival, even if she didn't act like it. Though her friends were classmates of Kuroko, Kuroko wouldn't be able to talk to them without drawing Mitsuko's attention. Instead, she occasionally socialized with random girls.

"Thought you looked bored and came to cheer you up."

"Uh huh." She looked at up skeptically. "It was Uiharu, wasn't it?"

"She pointed it out, but I agreed." Jason wasn't laughing at her and she noted this. "Everyone sort of ran off and did their own thing, and the costume contest isn't for another hour. So how about you and I dance a bit, to kill some time?"

"I'm good," Kuroko declined. "You can tell Uiharu you talked to me..." Her words died off when Jason held a finger up in front of her face

"You seem to misunderstand me," Jason told her. "I'm not going to take no for an answer about that dance. The only thing up for discussion is the reason."

"And if I continue to say no?" Kuroko asked, a challenging smirk escaping her lips. She felt the familiar spark begun to light up inside her.

"Then I will make a scene," Jason warned. "Be prepared for utmost humiliation. Maybe if I get down on one knee and ask for this dance in a booming voice to everyone around us?"

"You wouldn't," Kuroko stated, but her face paled.

"Try me."

They stared at each other for a moment, neither backing down.

"Fine." Kuroko finally relented and held out her hand. Jason took it and led her to the dance floor. She could hear a few girls point to them and she remembered some of the high school girls were interested in Jason. Being by the refreshments allowed her to hear a lot of the gossip. Guys visiting an all-girls' school was sure to draw those kinds of conversations. They took their place and Kuroko was only planning to move along to the beat.

Before she knew it, she found herself having fun. The music wasn't overly fast, so they wouldn't get exhausted, but wasn't a slow song, where they would have to hold each other and dance close. It would be awkward for several reasons. One, Kuroko was not his girlfriend and Kazari was nearby, probably watching them. The second was all her complicated feelings she hadn't confessed yet. If she confessed here, everyone would see and it would be incredibly awkward. Part of her wanted to see what he would do in this situation, but she was sure he would find a way to turn it around. Another part wanted her to be in a more serious setting because she needed his honest answer. Instead, they talked while dancing together and somehow managed to avoid arguing.

"Thanks," she muttered.

"Hmm?" Jason raised an eyebrow.

"For worrying about me," Kuroko admitted. "And for cheering me up. I'm having fun."

"Knew you would," Jason laughed. "Hanging out with friends makes everything better."

"Getting tired," Kuroko told him. "After this song, I'll probably go and hang out with the others. Hibiki-san looks like she wants to rant about Accelerator and I can share stories about you."

"I knew you cared." They both laughed. "So Hibiki and Accelerator, huh. Will be tough now that he and Bayloupe are-…" He stopped when his pocket started beeping. He pulled out his phone, glanced at the number for a second, before growing serious. "Shit," he mumbled.

"Work?" Kuroko asked.

"If it was I would ignore them," Jason muttered darkly. "It's my boss, so something big must have happened. Need to find a private place. If anyone asks, can you make something up for me?"

"Sure." They left the dance floor together after Jason answered his phone, but then he slipped into the hallway toward the rest of the school while Kuroko headed toward the others.

"I think that's everyone," Yuna finally declared and Touma slumped up against a wall.

"Where do you get all that energy?" Touma gasped. Mikoto and Misaki sat down on some chairs next to them and Lessar didn't seem phased at all.

"Nutrient supplements," Yuna answered and pointed to the pouch on her hip. "But a powerful Spartan shouldn't be complaining about a little socializing. We did invite you after all. I'm sure someone in your position knew what he was signing up for."

"Your logic is exactly like my friends," Touma sighed and everyone laughed.

"Remember when I warned you about how people notice level 5s?" Mikoto asked him. "This is what happens when you stand out like you did."

"That's funny," Misaki added with a grin. "I recall saying the same thing."

"Rub it in you two," Touma grumbled and they snickered. I need to make sure they don't hang around Aogami and Tsuchimikado anymore. They are remembering how much fun it is to tease me.

"He is the most recent level 5," Hanabi pointed out. "It's only natural for him to be used to a different set of standards."

"He secretly likes the attention," Lessar laughed. "And only pretends not to." She suddenly appeared in front of him. "So the powerful Spartan is tried, huh? Maybe he needs a little rubbing to feel better?" She took her hand and moved it down Touma's exposed chat. He flinched and jumped away.

"What are… why is your hand wet!?" Touma demanded.

"Take a guess," Lessar answered seductively with a wink.

"W-wha…?!" Mikoto and Hanabi stammered, her young mind immediately going to the worse possible reason.

"She wet her hand in the water fountain when we passed it," Misaki stated amused. She couldn't see Touma's cute embarrassed face, so she settled with Mikoto's adorable embarrassed face.

"You noticed it too?" Yuna asked with a laugh. "I was wondering what she was planning by doing that."

"I was a little occupied trying to remember everyone," Touma sighed.

"I don't think anyone expects you to remember everyone," Hanabi pointed out. "They just want to say hi and take pictures." Touma nodded. That was a thing. So many girls forced him to take selfies with them.

"And admire those abs," Yuna added and pointed to them. Hanabi blushed but did not look away. "You must work out a lot." Her eyes turned to Mikoto and Misaki. "As fellow level 5s," she said with a smirk. "Have you seen his training regimen?"

"I heard Misaka chased him across the city occasionally," Misaki said instantly.

"Don't bring that up!" Mikoto cried.

"Bet she tried to get physical," Lessar giggled.

"That sounds like a story I want to hear," Yuna said. "So, what was it about?" Mikoto opened her mouth to answer, but nothing came out. She didn't want to admit it was her selfishness in both not knowing his power, but the fact she couldn't affect him at all with her power.

"It was kind of my fault," Touma volunteered, sensing her discomfort. "I did something stupid and she found out her electricity didn't work on me. Instead of telling her, I ran and she chased me to figure out why."

"Is that so?" Misaki asked, a finger on her cheek. "It doesn't seem that ladylike for a Tokiwadai student. Perhaps there was another reason?" She was having so much fun teasing the two of them. Yuna's interest and Hanabi's embarrassment only made it all the sweeter. Lessar was… well Lessar. Her presence was more for her own pleasure than Misaki's.

"No!" Mikoto denied and then quickly changed tactics. Two can play at this game. "Someone sounds a little jealous they couldn't join in because they can barely run two blocks."

"A lady is delicate," Misaki huffed.

"Oh!" Lessar stated and her ears twitched. "I love this song. Come on, Lover Boy! Let's dance!" Lessar grabbed Touma's hand and pulled him toward the dance floor before he could protest.

"W-wait!" Hanabi called out, but she was far too late. They were out of her reach. "I was too late."

"Don't think like that," Yuna told her reassuringly. "He seems like the kind of guy who will dance with anyone who wants to dance with him." She turned to Misaki and Mikoto. "Right?"

"He would," Misaki agreed. "But we need to make sure he knows."

"Nonverbal clues tend to go over his head," Mikoto added. Maybe a slow dance will come on when it's my turn? Her cheeks flushed.

"See?" Yuna asked Hanabi, who nodded. "Great." She pushed her. "Get out there and be prepared to grab him the second this song is over."

"B-but-…!"

"No buts, get out there!" Hanabi hesitated for another fraction of a second, but slipped into the dance floor near Touma and Lessar. "Shy friends, am I right?"

"Yeah," Mikoto agreed. "Uiharu-san is only dating Kagere-san because Saten-san pushed her into it."

"Ishikawa–san?" Misaki asked.

"Yuna's fine."

"Well, Yuna-san," Misaki corrected. "I was wondering, what do you think of Kami?" Mikoto's ears twitched and she turned toward Misaki. There was a calculating look on her face as she stared at Yuna.

"He's cool," Yuna answered with a shrug. "A lot nicer than I expected…. considering his position and moniker. Hanabi really likes him, but Hibiki definitely thinks he is up to something. I believe he's too honest for that and she's just being paranoid."

"So you're not into him like Hanabi-san is?" Misaki asked to clarify.

"Nah." Yuna waved his hand. "Just as a friend and someone fun to hang out with. Besides, I found a cute guy I kind of want to ask out. I would have invited him tonight, but I don't have his number."

"Who?" Mikoto asked. "Do we know him?"

"Not sure," Yuna admitted. "He's a friend of Accelerator and I met him only once." Her eyes sparkled. "Speaking of which, he is here. I bet he has his number." She was mumbling to herself and brightened up. "Going to see if he does. I'll tell you more about him later." She took off.

"Friend of Accelerator," Misaki murmured thoughtfully. "That certainly narrows it down. It can't be any of the guys here… oh, for the love of… It has to be."

"Who…? Oh." It dawned on Mikoto who she was referring to. "Of course it is. Seriously, just one day without some random girl falling for him…" She face palmed in resignation.

"It seems I'm going to have to watch him closer," Misaki mused. "But for now, I'm going to see if I can dance with him. Maybe have a short private conversation there."

"You better not try anything," Mikoto warned.

"Me? Try anything? I would never." Mikoto didn't believe her for a second.

Touma found himself in the middle of the dance floor with Lessar. Even though the music was some popular song, Lessar was taking advantage of it to get as much skin time as possible. Touma had to keep his distance, but she rarely let go of his hand. He noticed a couple other girls watching him, but he tried to ignore their stares and was so glad his helmet was covering his face.

"Having fun with all the attention, though?" Lessar asked with a knowing grin on her face.

"You know the answer to that question," Touma said exasperatedly. "I'm not the kind of person who likes being the center of attention like that. However," Lessar raised an eyebrow, "I do like the fact we are doing a perfectly normal thing for once, attending a party instead of racing off trying to stop some crazy person from blowing up the moon or something."

"So who's doing that?" Lessar asked curiously. "Didn't think the Moon Goddess cult was that desperate yet."

"What?!" Lessar started to laugh and he knew he got played. "Anyway, I am enjoying attending the party with everyone. Even if some of you tend to be focusing on adult things."

"I knew those blondes were up to something," Lessar agreed. "Two are after you and the one in the bunny suit brought his girlfriend. I wonder why?" She added that last line somewhat mockingly and Touma sighed. However, his indignation quickly turned to alarm when Lessar grew serious. "Just as a precaution, I heard from Floris something weird is in the air. It might be nothing, but thought you should know."

"Any suspects, is it Eve?" Touma was preparing himself for the worst.

"Nothing definite. Could just be the souls of the dead returning to the world of the living for some fun." Lessar grinned at him. "It's what the true spirit of Halloween is about, besides dressing up sexily for parties. Don't I look good?"

"Yeah, yeah, you look great."

"I look better with it off," Lessar whispered as the song came to an end. "And you are already half out of your costume. Maybe we should sneak into the rest of the school and dirty a teacher's de-…"

"Excuse me," Hanabi's voice interrupted and she glided between them. "It's my turn to dance with him, sorry." Before either of them could say anything she pulled him after her between two other groups. Once she was sure Lessar wasn't following, she stopped. "Sorry for interrupting, but I was afraid I wouldn't be able to get a chance to dance with you. I hope that's okay. I mean, if you don't want to…"

"It's fine," Touma quickly reassured her. Hanabi was quiet, kind, rather attractive, and a year older than him. "I would love to." He missed the flush of her cheeks at those words. They started dancing when the next song started up. Their bodies were close, but they weren't touching.

"I noticed everyone here seems to be a good dancer," Touma said to her.

"Ah, one of our classes involves dancing," Hanabi explained. "It's mostly classical stuff, but we learn how to read the flow of songs and move accordingly. They consider it to be essential of proper young ladies."

"Do you like those kinds of classes?" Touma asked.

"Some of it is useful," Hanabi admitted. "But there are skills we learned I doubt I will ever really use once I graduate. Hibiki complains about them all the time and thinks it perpetuates stereotypes."

"Mikoto mentioned something similar once a long time ago," Touma admitted. "Can't say I really understand it."

"Heh, what can you do? It's only a small part of the curriculum and I like most of the other subjects."

"That's more than most people care to admit," Touma replied and they both laughed. Once they started talking, Hanabi opened up, something Touma was used to. He noticed she was rather hesitant to start conversations, even if she was willing to answer questions. As soon as the song finished, he found himself grabbed by other girl.

"My turn," Misaki said in a sweet voice, but Hanabi could tell it was a command to her. Hanabi waved to Touma and scooted off the dance floor. "Finally! I've wanted to do this with you since we got here."

"Really?"

"Don't you know?" she asked. "It's our first dance."

"Huh." Touma thought about it for a moment. "You're right."

"Remember this date," Misaki warned him. "I'm going to quiz you sometime in the future."

"Please, don't," he begged. "I'm terrible at dates!" She laughed and he relaxed.

"Don't worry," Misaki reassured him. "You'll have enough problems remembering more important dates like birthdays soon enough."

"What do you mean by that?" Touma asked confused.

"Oh, it will all be clear soon enough." Touma couldn't get much more out of her and the song eventually ended. He tried during most of the dance not to stare at her revealing costume, but the gleam in her eye told him she knew, but didn't comment on it. Misaki didn't even try to stop a random girl from coming up to him. Touma was getting tired, but he could tell there were many people who wanted to dance, so he had to endure. After three more girls, he came face to face with a familiar individual. Of course, his blood ran cold when he saw her eyes.

"Thought you could just ignore me after the invitation?" Shizuri asked him, as the song started up.

"It wasn't like I had a choice," Touma protested.

"Save it," Shizuri ordered and rolled her eyes. "I'm used to how easy you get roped into stupid things. For now, enjoy spending time with me. I know I'm going to enjoy getting away from those annoying brats who kept wanting to talk to me." Touma remained silent as Shizuri ranted about how she rather be doing something constructive. When she finally stopped, Touma took the opportunity to ask something he had been wondering for a while.

"Eh, Mugino?" He asked and her eyes bore into his. "I'm curious, about your group's costume…"

"It's your fault," Shizuri said bluntly.

"My fault? How is it my fault?"

"You barely gave us anytime to decide on costumes," Shizuri told him coolly. "It was a last minute thing. If it wasn't for Hamazura… I still got my revenge on him. Since he wanted a bunny theme, he got a bunny theme."

"Well, regardless," Touma continued. "You look great. Purple really suits you."

"Of course." Her tone was brisk, but she was slightly mollified. "The colors were based on who could pull it off. Takitsubo and I were drawing a lot of attention before we met up with you. Seriously, boys only think with their dicks. If we weren't in a hurry, I would have blasted them."

"Thanks for not killing them," Touma told her. "And not all guys are like that."

"You better be grateful," Shizuri told him and tabbed his chest with the back of her hand. "I'll forgive you for waiting until the last minute because I could tell you appreciated it." She smirked and Touma looked away. "But I'm expecting a list of what you like about me besides my looks in two days."

"Huh, why?"

"Prove me wrong, if you can." She turned and left, right before the song ended and Frenda appeared next to him.

"What did she talk to you about?" Frenda asked, as the next song started up.

"Hamazura's costume solution," Touma said.

"It was totally a selfish act on his part," Frenda sniffed and adjusted her bunny ears. "But we decided not to kill him and go along with the idea. Basically, we make these outfits look good." Touma almost said she and Saiai weren't filling it out quite as good as the other two, but that would be shooting himself in the foot. Frenda at least had something daring, unlike Saiai. Motoharu and Pierce discussed it in details at school once. Saiai would have killed them both if she found out. Maybe he should save that as a panic device to save his life.

"You do look good," Touma admitted, after omitting the slightly nullifying information. "I was shocked when you showed up in those."

"Normally I would kill a guy for looking at me with lewd eyes," Frenda laughed. "But I'll make an exception for you. Basically, you only mean it as a compliment."

"Thanks-…"

"But sneak a peek at my underwear again and a grenade is going down your pants," Frenda finished. "Clear?"

"Crystal." The two of them began to dance and Frenda actually held his hand as he spun her around. Frenda's natural foot work, Touma's height over her, and the upbeat song all worked in perfect sync. They drew a lot more glances their way, but it was more in admiration rather than curiosity. The song stopped and they let go, panting slightly. He barely managed to get a few breaths in before Ruiko took his hand.

"Quick," she whispered. "Before someone else takes a turn." They changed positions before the next song started up and began to do a moderately smooth dance. "We should spend more time with Yuna's friends," Ruiko told him. "They know so many rumors I never heard of."

"Glad you are enjoying yourself," Touma laughed. "How's everyone else?"

"Everyone seems to have found something to do," Ruiko said. "I'm not sure if we will get first in the costume contest though, lots of amazing group ones. Though, I think you have the solo one in the bag."

"I wonder why," Touma muttered dryly, all too aware many girls were still looking at him. "I should have worn a shirt."

"But then we can't see all those muscles you got saving people," Ruiko giggled, even as she flushed with embarrassment at those words.

"To be honest," Touma whispered. "I got these from running away from delinquents and getting out of bed in the morning." Ruiko snorted and quickly covered her mouth.

"Funny," Ruiko said, still chuckling. "But seriously, I think you won. The other guys have nice costumes, but you draw the attention. There are some amazing prizes too. Worth thousands of yen. Can you believe that?"

"Well, they are Tokiwadai," Touma reminded her. "This kind of stuff is probably pretty cheap for them."

"True," Ruiko conceded. "We hang out with Misaka-san so much, I kind of forget she's an ojou-sama."

"That's why we hang out so often," Touma pointed out. "She only wants to be treated like the rest of us."

"I know," Ruiko agreed. "Maybe I should do something for her, just to show I appreciate her."

"Try dropping the san from her name," Touma suggested. "Be more familiar with her."

"Maybe I should." Ruiko thought about it for a moment. "Sounds good, actually. Uiharu may like to be formal, but I'm not. We got on a first name basis pretty fast, didn't we?"

"We did," Touma concurred. "After the museum incident interrupted our first date…" He trailed off. That was technically a date, not a fake one like he had gone on with Mikoto and Misaki before.

"Yeah… I remember that," Ruiko muttered. "Shame that it happened. The exhibit… was really interesting." The song ended and she quickly excused herself. The thought to follow her flashed through Touma's mind, but Mikoto chose the moment to walk up to him.

"What happened?" She asked.

"We remembered something embarrassing," Touma said and tried to laugh.

"Let me guess," Mikoto said smugly. "You put your foot in your mouth?"

"You know me so well, Biribiri." He couldn't resist.

"That nickname!" she hissed. She poked him in the chest with a single finger. "I know how to bypass your hand now. Would you care to repeat that?"

"Oh great, Misaka-sama. Your wisdom and insight has seen through my charade and I humbly apologize for my mistake. I will do anything to earn your forgiveness."

"I-idiot!" Mikoto stammered, sparkling a little. "People are staring." Touma glanced around and say people were beginning to turn toward them.

"Umm, Mikoto," Touma said carefully. "Your hand… it's still on my chest." Mikoto eye's widened and she pulled it back. Before either could say anything, the DJ spoke up through the PA system.

"Let's slow it down," he announced. "It's time to find a partner."

Of course, Touma thought to himself. He didn't know how to slow dance and he figured Mikoto would wait until a more casual song was playing. To his surprise, she took his hands without saying a word and began to move with the music. Touma let her lead and they began to spin slowly around. Her face was red and, if it wasn't for his disguise, his face would probably be the same color. The music continued and Touma could feel Mikoto right up against him. They still weren't talking and Touma could feel her hand trembling slightly in his. He gave her hand a slight squeeze and he saw her flinch. Mikoto looked up at him and smiled. He smiled back and she could just make it out from her position. The dance became a lot less awkward but, as soon as the music ended, Mikoto took off. Touma had to decline a few people asking for dance. "Sorry, I need to take a short break."

Instead of waiting over by the refreshments, Touma slipped out the door into the hallway leading into Tokiwadai High School's main building. He really just wanted some alone time and to rest. The attention was getting to him. So this is what Accelerator, Mikoto, and Misaki go through on a daily basis. At least I can remove the mask. He got a drink from the fountain and leaned up against the wall to rest. He was so preoccupied he didn't even notice the door open and a little devil entered.

"Here I thought you didn't like attention," Leivinia laughed. "Yet there you were, being the life of the party."

"You know I didn't have a choice."

"One always has a choice," Leivinia corrected him. "You simply choose to let others dictate it for you." She leaned up against the wall next to him.

"It's more that I enjoy spending time with people that doesn't involve life and death struggles," he retorted.

"Heh, I can relate." She glanced at him when he remained silent. "What? I love my sister and do everything I can to keep her out of the magic side." She grinned. "Don't you dare try flirting with her either or you will end up six feet under."

"One," Touma told her and held up a finger. "I don't know how to flirt. Two, you really are the textbook definition of an older sister. You sure you are wearing the right costume? Maybe you need the angel one."

"Try sassing me some more," Leivinia warned him and pressed a finger into his chest. "And I'll show you how much of a devil I can be." Touma gulped. "Anyway," she continued. "Just letting you know I'm heading out. Something requires my attention. Let Patricia know if she asks. I'll be back if possible."

"What's going on?" Touma asked. "Do you need help?"

"My cabal is more than capable of handling day to day issues," Leivinia snapped. "But don't worry, if I need you, I will get you. This is not negotiable."

"Of course it isn't."

"Good. You are learning." She turned and left him alone, choosing to escape out a back exit to avoid drawing attention to herself. Touma began to worry and his fears increase when two people entered the hallway from the gym.

"Hey, Kami-yan!" Motoharu greeted him.

"Hope you aren't too tired from all the dancing," laughed Jason.

"What do you guys want?" Touma asked. "I'm trying to relax for a few minutes before going back in there."

"Well," Motoharu said and his tone betrayed he was hiding something. "Your help might be required. Never mind, it is required. We have a… situation."

"Situation?" Touma clarified. "You mean a magic side situation?"

"You know us too well," Jason answered. "But, yes. It seems like an army of ghosts, ghouls, zombies, pumpkins, all the Halloween stuff is marching against Academy City."

"We traced their appearance to ley line energy being focused onto the windowless building," Motoharu continued. "The decorations coming to life and the Halloween spirits are making their way there. What will happen if they get there, we don't know, and we don't want to find out. We are going to use your hand to disrupt the flow into the building and allow the ley lines to resort back to their original position. Any questions?"

"One," Touma admitted. "What drugs are you two on?" This caused the other two to laugh.

"As much as I enjoy a good practical joke," Jason told him and his smiled vanished. This was a big warning sign for Touma. "This isn't the time. We can explain what's happening in detail on the way."

"You're serious?" Touma asked in shock.

"Deadly," Motoharu said with a nod. "Kanzaki and Itsuwa have already engaged several groups converging on the target, but there are so many, they can only slow them down. We might need more help. Speaking of which," he turned around. "You might as well come out instead of listening secretly." Touma and Jason turned to see who Motoharu was referring to. From the door, Kazari stepped out, looking embarrassed.

"Kazari?" Jason asked. "What are you doing?"

"I saw you chatting on your phone with a serious look on your face," she admitted. "And you sought out Tsuchimikado-san to discuss something quietly. I figured there was some kind of trouble."

"You can read me too well," Jason told her with a kind smile. "Did you hear everything?" She nodded.

"Do you want me to get the others?" she asked. "They would be more than willing to help."

"If we all disappear," Touma worried. "It's going to draw attention. The others may try to find out where we went. Ishikawa-san definitely won't just sit back and wait. If they see Halloween spirits and decorations coming to life, it's not going to be good for the separation between sides."

"Plus with how many there are in every direction," Jason added. "We need a small army to form a complete wall."

"Hmm," Motoharu pondered this for a moment. "What if we make them believe there is a reason for the invasion?"

"Huh?" The other three looked at him.

"I have an idea," Motoharu said with a grin. "Is there a Judgment or Anti-Skill branch office nearby?"

"There is Judgment office," Kazari confirmed. "Why? Do you need access to our channels?"

"Kind of," Motoharu told her. "But we definitely need your hacking skills. You see," his grin widened, "it's time for another Public Service Announcement from Kami-yan."

"…so the activities we attribute to ghosts are actually peoples' beliefs being materialized by ley lines passing through the area?" Kazari asked, as she, Jason, Touma, and Motoharu ran down the street towards the Judgment branch office after escaping unnoticed from the high school.

"Pretty much," Jason answered. He and Motoharu had given her and Touma a more detailed explanation and Motoharu's plan. "A lot of magic is based on beliefs and ley lines are really just raw magical energy."

"So why is there an army of Halloween decorations coming to life this year?" Touma asked.

"There must be some kind of focusing device directing the energy toward the windowless building," Motoharu theorized. "Kanzaki said they were heading the way. A lot of kids thought it was a parade, but then the decorations got violent. Anti-Skill has been dispatched and is holding down several areas, but it's only going to continue until we stop it. The problem is, getting close enough to the center through all the madness is going to take time. Hence, this is why I suggested we do this."

"I bet you could come up with a better idea that didn't rely on me to do this," Touma refuted. Motoharu only shrugged in response.

"Do you think you can do this?" Jason asked.

"You have Anti-Skill codes," Kazari told him. "That will let me bypass pretty much everything, but it's going to show you were the one to do this."

"Eh, I can talk my way out of trouble."

"Fine," Touma relented. "Let's do this." They arrived at the Judgment branch office and Kazari opened it with her ID card. They stumbled in and she made their way to the computer. Jason started rummaging around in a closet for equipment, while Motoharu started writing down the script. Touma moved a chair in front of a blank wall, so no one could tell where they were and waited. In less than five minutes, everyone was ready. Kazari monitoring the signals, Jason holding the camera, and Motoharu passed over the notepad.

"It's time for Kami-yan to return to the big screen!" Motoharu declared. "Lights, camera, act…!" he was interrupted by the door to the office bursting open.

"Any luck?" Mikoto asked Ruiko and Kuroko.

"No," Ruiko replied. "But Uiharu is gone too."

"Along with Jason and Tsuchimikado," Kuroko added. "They are up to something and dragged Uiharu into it, obviously."

"Where could they have gone," Misaki muttered. I should have been watching closer. It's obvious he would get drawn into something.

"No one's seen him since he left the dance floor," Yuna confirmed, appearing next to them. "A few people are beginning to ask what happened to him."

"I bet he got captured," Accelerator laughed. He hadn't really gone out looking for Touma. "Then the other three went after him. Or they just didn't care about the party and bailed, which I'm thinking of doing."

"Leave then," Hibiki told him. "No one will care."

"You know you would miss me," Accelerator told her with a smirk. She rolled her eyes in response. Bayloupe looked down at her phone. She knew a little of the situation due to Floris's warning, but she couldn't tell the others as long as non-related people were nearby.

"I hope they are okay," Hanabi fretted. "The boys aside, Uiharu-san wouldn't just leave without a reason. Right?"

"She definitely would not," Ruiko confirmed. "I'm thinking Accelerator is closest to what happened."

"So we need to go find him," Mikoto stated. "Do any of you know someone with a tracking ability?"

"Yes," said Shizuri, from right behind her, which caused Mikoto to jump. "I happen to know what happened to those four." She, Shiage, Rikou, and Saiai had walked up toward them, obviously knowing what their situation was about.

"Then why don't you enlighten us?" Misaki asked impatiently.

"Seems the four of them left a few minutes ago and are in a building a couple blocks away," Shizuri answered with a tone of superiority. "If you had been paying attention, you would have noticed them sneaking out the back entrance. I sent Frenda to investigate. She should be messaging me any moment."

"You didn't try to stop them?" Mikoto asked.

"Why should I have?" Shizuri asked. "I'm not their babysitter. I do enough of that with Hamazura."

"Hey!" he said indignantly.

"Frenda super volunteered for reconnaissance duty too," Saiai left.

"Frenda has made contact with them," Rikou confirmed, as she stared out the window.

"Wow," Lessar said and no one had noticed when she joined them. "I didn't think that quiet girl was like that. Sneaking out with three guys, that's impressive. But they were planning to have a good time." Every girl except Shizuri and Rikou choked and turned toward her in shock.

"Why is the gutter the first place you go to?!" Kuroko demanded.

"All of your minds went there too," Lessar pointed out. She had a point, so the others tried to ignore her.

"Why would they leave though," Yuna mused. "I thought we were doing a good job entertaining them."

"You were," Ruiko reassured her. "We were all having a blast. It's just Kami… tends to get wrapped up in a lot of things."

"That is an understatement," Misaki, Mikoto, Shizuri, Accelerator, and Kuroko muttered in unison. Saiai's phone beeped and she pulled it out. A frown formed on her face when she read the message.

"She says we super need to turn on a TV to any channel," Saiai told the others. "Something about an emergency announcement." Yuna, Hanabi, and Hibiki immediately turned and waved to one girl to get her attention. Everyone else glanced at each other with the same thought on their mind.

Yep, he's in trouble.

"Call down the movie screen and turn it to channel 8," Yuna told the girl, who nodded. The lights dimmed and a large screen began to descend on the far wall. Everyone in the gym grew quiet. From what Mikoto and the others inferred was the screen was going to show the results of the costume contest, so everyone was confused at why it was being lowered already. Once the screen had finished descending, it flashed a couple times and settled on channel 8. There were several audible gasps when they saw who it was, including a few cheers.

Kami, in all his half naked glory, was sitting on a chair and holding a notepad in his hands.

"What is he doing now?" Mikoto asked out loud.

"Something stupid," Accelerator and Shizuri said.

"Or hilarious," Yuna offered as a counter argument.

"It's going to be both," Saiai said and Mikoto and Misaki silently agreed.

"Attention Academy City," Touma addressed them. "This is an emergency announcement brought to you by me, Kami the Harem King, and is being relayed on all channels. As you know, tonight is Halloween, a time for fun, games, and candy, but there is a lot more to this holiday. Throughout the years, it has been a time for cultures all over the world to celebrate and respect the dead, while keeping the monsters and ghosts away. Tonight, the wall separated the living and the dead is at its thinnest and I took advantage of this."

"Huh?" The confusion was evident among the girls and guys at the party. That was obvious for those who did not know Touma personally, but even among his friends they were not sure what was going on. Accelerator, Shizuri, and Misaki began to suspect the magic side first. After all, it was the only time Touma ever started talking about cultures and beliefs.

"My companions and I set up a large scale game for you," Touma continued. "Using some special technology, the Halloween decorations the city has so carefully have begun to come alive with the spirits of the dead and are running amuck throughout Academy City."

"What!?" If someone wasn't confused, they defiantly were now.

"Spirits of the dead?" Ruiko asked the others.

"Shhh!" Mikoto and Misaki shushed her. Hanabi and Hibiki looked at each other in bewilderment, but Yuna was grinning from ear to ear.

"Ghosts, monsters, spirits, figments of your imagination," Touma continued on the big screen. "Whatever you want to call them, are running amuck in the city. It will be up to anyone interested in participating to stop them. The rules are pretty simple. I will have people monitoring the entire city to keep track of each individual's accomplishments. Keeping the monsters from bothering children, destroying them before they reach hidden objectives, and other things are all involved in the scoring process. Whoever gets the top score will receive a special prize."

"Super tell us the prize already!" Saiai yelled.

"The individual who has the greatest participation score will be able to ask me for any one favor," Touma said, after a pause when he seemed to glance off the screen. It sounded like a couple people were trying to muffle their laughs. "And I mean anything. Money, power, fame, nothing is off the table as long as I can provide it. You could even find out…" There was a definite pause here as he glanced over at the people out of view of the camera. "My true identity…"

There was no silencing the obvious gasps this time.

"This message will be repeating throughout the evening to ensure everyone has a chance to see this," Touma finished. "Good luck, have fun, and stay safe." The screen flickered and only gray static with the message 'please stay tuned' moving across it.

"I will never understand what passes through his mind," Mikoto sighed and facepalmed.

"Obviously there is more to this then a game," Misaki whispered to her. "It has to be the other side. Maybe her…?"

"Would not doubt that," Mikoto muttered back. "But why get everyone involved? He always tries to keep others away." Misaki did not have an answer to that, but she did glance around at all the exciting muttering.

"We have to participate," Yuna told Hanabi excitedly. "I knew something amazing would happen if we invited him."

"It does seem like fun," Hanabi agreed. "And that prize…"

"Wait!" Hibiki yelled out and they stopped talking. "How do we even know this is real? Maybe it's a trick of some kind?"

"That… is a good point," Yuna admitted. "Hey Cera!" A girl turned to look at her. "Can you check to see if this event is actually happening?" The girl nodded and turned to face a wall. She stared in silence for a moment, before her eyes widened.

"It is!" she cried. "The pumpkin patch we set up is moving out into the streets!"

"Heh," Yuna laughed. "I want to know how he does this, but I'll settle with finding out his identity." She rushed to the front of the gym and grabbed a mic. "Ladies," she said and everyone turned toward her. "As you heard, a great opportunity has befallen us. We have a chance to learn Kami's secret identity." The girls cheered. "While this game may be as couth as we are used to, it's a chance to… let our hair down." A lot of people laughed. "What do you say, girls? Are we in?" The cheers answered her question. "Okay, you know the drill. Divide into balance teams, support, offensive, and communications…"

"I think they have done this before," Ruiko whispered to Kuroko.

"Obviously," she sighed back. "I take it you are going to take part?"

"Of course." Ruiko puffed out her chest. "I may not have some high level ability, but I can take a bat and knock down a few things. I have to at least try. Even if I don't win, it sounds like a lot of fun."

"Blowing things up without repercussions?" Saiai said to Shizuri and Rikou. "Sounds super therapeutic."

"Hmm," Shizuri muttered. "I suppose so." She glanced at her phone and started dialing. "First, I'm going to get the true scope of things from Frenda, and then we can decide what to do." Rikou nodded and Saiai grinned.

"Well then," Misaki smiled and started walking away. "I'm off. Call me if you need help."

"Where are you going?!" Mikoto demanded and reached forward to grab her arm.

"Going to take part in the competition," Misaki said in a false bewildered tone. "Were you not listening?"

"That's not what I was referring to," Mikoto told her. "Your ability isn't suited for direct combat. You're going to look for him."

"Actually," Misaki corrected her. "I was not."

"Huh?" Mikoto was honestly confused now.

"For whatever reason," Misaki explained in a hushed whisper. "He is asking for help to fight these… decorations that have come alive. We both know it's from the other side, so he is probably trying to stop whatever is causing it. He wants us to stem the tide. As for fighting, I have my ways." She grinned.

"Using other people," Mikoto sighed. "But you have a point. He might ask us directly if he needs us." Misaki nodded. "Fine. I'll do my part, if you do yours."

"I'm glad we are such good friends," Misaki beamed and embraced Mikoto in a hug.

"Get off me!" Mikoto pushed her away. Once Misaki was safely off her, she turned to Kuroko. "Can you transport us to an area that needs help?"

"I can," Kuroko replied. "Then I'm going to scout the area and see if anyone needs help." They smiled at each other.

"Not sure if I can do anything," Patricia told them. "I'm not a combatant, but I wish you all luck."

"Don't worry," Ruiko reassured her. "After this is over, we can hang out, eat candy, and watch scary movies. Uiharu gets scared easily and it's fun to watch."

"I would love to," Patricia beamed. "Though, I'm probably not that much better at watching scary movies."

"That only increases the fun," Ruiko laughed.

"You going too?" Bayloupe asked Accelerator.

"Knowing the brats," he muttered. "They are going to get stuck in the middle of it and expect me to help them."

"Which you will," she pointed out with a smirk.

"Shut it," Accelerator snapped. "You coming, or what?"

"You actually want me to come?" Bayloupe asked with a smirk.

"I figured you know what the hell is actually happening. Tell me on the way."

"You assume a lot, but I do. Also, Lessar took off immediately, so she's either trying to find him or is planning to get the most points to make him do something. Never quite sure if she understands everything or just goes with the flow." They two of them took off and Hibiki suddenly tailed them.

"Why are you following?" Accelerator asked irritated.

"Because your friend is the cause of this," Hibiki huffed. "And I'm suspicious you know more than what you are letting on."

"Oh, he definitely is," Accelerator laughed. "But I don't pay attention to what he does unless it affects me. Do what you want though, no skin off my back." A little distance away from the others, Mitsuko was talking with her friends.

"Are you going to participate?" Kinuho asked Mitsuko. "I think you would do well."

"Naturally," Mitsuko agreed. "But I'm not sure what to ask. I'm really not that interested in seeing Kami's face."

"I'm sure you will think of something," Maaya reassured her.

"For now," Kinuho added. "Everyone else is taking part, we should definitely help."

"You are right," Mitsuko said to her. "If we work together as a team, I'm sure we can win."

"Right!" Kinuho and Maaya cheered.

"I can't believe you made me do this," Touma sighed in defeat.

"Mope later," Jason told him. "We have work to do." He started to walk toward the door.

"Where are you going?" Frenda asked.

"Higher ups want me to guard a certain area," Jason sighed. "Leaving everything up to you three. Kazari, keep everyone up to date on movements, and make sure our friends know what's going on when you get a chance. Some of them are going to be upset with Touma if you don't."

"Please, Uiharu-san," Touma begged and she nodded.

"Good luck," Kazari said.

"If anything happens to her," Jason warned Touma and Motoharu. "Both of you better not return."

"I can take care of myself!" Kazari protested, but Jason only laughed and winked at her before leaving the office.

"We need to make our way toward the windowless building," Motoharu told Touma. "Let's get to it. We have a bit of a jog."

"I'm coming too," Frenda declared.

"Are you sure?" Touma asked. "It's not like you're responsible for this."

"I'm not going to miss a chance to blow things up," Frenda sniffed. "And if the city falls, Mugino and I will be out of a job. Basically, you are part of our group now, so we work together."

"Thanks, Frenda," Touma told her gratefully.

"And it doesn't hurt you offered that prize," Frenda laughed. "It's going to have to go to someone or their will be a riot. Basically, you have to say someone got the most points and, by the fact only you three and Kagere can technically be judges, by odds of winning are pretty good."

"Sneaky," Motoharu laughed. "Nice."

"You three should hurry," Kazari told them. "Seems like Kamijou-san's announcement is spreading pretty fast. Some eager groups have already engaged some of the targets."

"Let's go then," Touma told the other two and they took off. Kazari had given them a route to avoid most of the Halloween 'spirits' to make the trip easier, but they had a ways to go. They began to hear a lot of shouting from a couple streets over and Touma suddenly felt a twinge of guilt. They didn't really have much choice in involving everyone else, but if anyone got hurt, he knew it was because of him. Motoharu must have read his mind, because he spoke up.

"We had to get help, Kami-yan," Motoharu informed him. "The longer these things run amuck, the more ley line energy they are absorbing. Right now, they are probably just minor annoyances, but eventually they will become a threat to other peoples' lives. Halloween beliefs tend to get stronger the later it gets due to people's natural aversion to the dark."

"Just because I know, doesn't mean I like it," Touma muttered.

"Question," Frenda asked. "If all these people are fighting Halloween decorations that have come to life, wouldn't some of them start thinking some of these things might be real? Especially if they get stronger?"

"…"

"Well?" Touma prodded.

"We should probably hurry." Motoharu's response caused them all the pick up their pace. The windowless building eventually came into view from a distance and they turned a corner.

Only to be blocked by a wall of monsters.

Living jack-o-lanterns moved on green vines, zombies shuffled their feet, inflatable ghosts hovered a couple inches off the ground, witches flew on broomsticks escorted by crows, plastic monsters stumbled around. Touma, Frenda, and Motoharu skidded to a stop, but their presence alerted the monsters. They turned around, saw them, and they immediately began to approach them, groaning, shrieking, and cackling. Touma was about to turn and try to find another way around them, but the side routes would take too long. There wasn't that many of these things. Before he could make a decision, Frenda rushed ahead.

"I got this!" she yelled. She reached down at the hem of her costume and a number of small handheld rockets appeared. She threw her hands out and the rockets went off. A chain of explosions indicated her weapons hit their mark and the path was clear, except for a few stray pieces still moving. One jack-o-lantern was still intact, but it was off to the side and they were able to pass them unharmed. "I'm great, aren't I?"

"That was perfect," Touma told her impressed. "But where do you keep your explosives? Your outfit is skin tight!"

"Trade secret," Frenda laughed, though her cheeks flushed when she saw him look her over.

"Isn't it obvious, Kami-yan?" Motoharu asked. "She must have some kind of dimensional panties she keeps her bombs stored in."

"W-what?!" Frenda spluttered.

"That actually explains it," Touma agreed. "She usually reaches under her skirt to retrieve them."

"Her power probably involves space distortion or something," Motoharu continued. "Being skin tight might make it easier to manipulate."

"Do you think the color matters?" Touma asked.

"I bet it doesn't hurt."

"SHUT UP BOTH OF YOU!" Frenda roared. "One more word about my underwear and I'm shoving an explosive into your mouth!" That shut up the two of them for a moment, but then Motoharu had to tempt fate.

"If Kami-yan touched your panties, would his hand go off?"

"I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!" Motoharu took off with Frenda right behind him. Touma sighed to himself and followed, relieved he wasn't on the end of the threat this time. If it had just been Frenda and him, there would have been a misunderstanding and he would be in trouble. Secretly, he was kind of wondering if there was any truth to Frenda having dimensional panties. "I know you're thinking about my underwear!" Frenda yelled over her shoulder. "You're next!"

Shit.

At the speed they were running, they were going to get to the windowless building in less than ten minutes. At least, until they turned the corner and came face to face with a two story tall inflatable black and red dragon and were forced to stop. On the far side of it, a group of twenty students were grouped together. Frenda didn't hesitate and chucked an explosion at the dragon's back. The explosion went off in a flash but, when it faded, there wasn't even a mark. The beast only roared.

"Isn't it some inflatable piece of junk?" Frenda asked. "Basically, how could it withstand an explosion? The previous ones didn't."

"Whoever is on the other side!" they heard someone yell way louder than a normal person. "Nothing we do is working on it! The scales almost seem real!"

"That is definitely not good," Motoharu fretted. "The stronger ones are making people believe there is more to this and their belief is making the ley line effects stronger."

"So these creatures are going to keep getting bigger until we can't handle them," Touma growled in frustration.

"Reason we need to get to the focal point quickly."

"I'll handle the dragon and then we can-…" Touma started to say, but was interrupted when the dragon flicked its tail at them. A car was tossed high into the air and was coming right down toward them.

"Scatter!" Touma yelled. The three of them began to move, but their retreat was made unnecessary as a green beam flew over their heads and disintegrated the car. Touma turned around and saw a figure that both installed fear and relieved him.

"Mugino!" Frenda called out excitedly.

"She sure times things well," Motoharu commented impressed. Behind her, Saiai and Rikou followed and, further back, Shiage was waiting for in a car. Since they had walked to meet Touma and his friends, they must have commandeered that one.

"You!" Shizuri said and pointed to Touma. "Explain!"

"Magical ley lines are causing the beliefs in Halloween spirits to materialize and possess things," Touma explained in a rush. "The longer this occurs, the stronger the magic is going to get. I need to get to the windowless building to stop it. Until then, we need to stop as many of these living decorations as possible so they don't get to the focal point."

"Eve's doing?"

"Probably," Touma answered.

"Okay. Hamazura!" she yelled over her shoulder. "Take Kamijou and his idiot friend to their destination!" Motoharu didn't even make acknowledgement at the insult. "Frenda, you are with us."

"Gotcha!" Frenda exclaimed.

"It's super like vandalism without any punishment," Saiai laughed.

"Thanks, Mugino," Touma called out of the window, after he and Motoharu entered the car. "I'll make it up to you!"

"Oh, you will," was her response.

"Have fun destroying everything, Mugino-san." Motoharu called out. "Try to keep structural damage to a minimum if you can. Bye, Dimensional Panty-san!"

"I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!" Frenda yelled as Shiage drove them away.

"Sorry for him!" Touma cried out to her and then turned to Motoharu. "Why?"

"If we repeat it enough," Motoharu told him. "You will make a slip up one day in front of her." Touma growled at her while Shiage laughed.

"What is with the name?" he asked them.

Back with the rest of ITEM, Saiai was looking Frenda over.

"Sooooo," she said in a singsong voice. "Care to explain the nickname?"

"NO!"

"Shut up you two," Shizuri growled. "We have a mission to do." Then she grinned, which was never a good sign for someone. Shizuri walked forward toward the dragon and half a dozen green orbs appeared around her. A second later, they fired and passed through the dragon like it was paper. Instead of blood or guts, it fell apart with a loud pop. Cheers echoed down the street as the dragon disappeared. The group of students started rushing toward them.

"Nice job!"

"You must be at least a level 4!"

"The Bunny Brigade is a sight for sore eyes!"

A green beam nearly missed the boy who decided to smart off.

"Hey! That almost hit me!" Another couple green orbs appeared.

"Next one won't," Shizuri warned with a dark look in her eye.

"Oh, boy," Saiai and Frenda sighed. Rikou only shrugged.

"Thiss iss way more entertaining than I thought it would be," Julunggul laughed, as she sat on the rooftop next to a blonde girl. Sitting might have been the wrong word though, as her lower body was that of a snake, instead of a human. She was already slightly snakelike, so she dressed up as Lamia for the occasion. The two of them were eating out of a bowl of candy, watching the students, Anti-Skill, and random people fighting against the Halloween horrors. "A very interessting idea to sspice up the holiday."

"You know me," Eve laughed. She was wearing a pink robelike dress with some white semi-transparent cloth attaching to her arms. A golden tiaralike item sat on her head and she wore fancy sandals. She was dressed up like Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of beauty. If she was older, she might have filled out the dress better. In her current form, she looked kind of plain. No one would tell her that, or at least tell her that and not regret it at some point. "I always try to make sure people can have fun, even when I'm working."

"Any other reasson?" Julunggul asked suspiciously. "Maybe to bother ssomeone?"

"It's sure to raise Aleister's blood pressure a lot too," Eve admitted and roared with laughter. "He's been mean to me when all I want is to be friends." She looked over at Julunggul. "You aren't upset I ruined the Imagine Breaker's harem party?"

"He wouldn't have done anything," Julunggul reassured her. "He knowss the girlss want him, but he lackss the courage to continue. It will take time, but he will break. I am here to make ssure of that." She grinned. "And to messs with him. Adam mentioned you had a lot of fun toying with him and I can ssee why."

"He's cute when he is embarrassed," Eve acknowledged. "So, what do you say we… speed things up so we get some larger enemies to spawn?"

"Zombie ssnakes and ssome sspiderss?" Julunggul suggested.

"You read my mind."

"I'm never going to get used to magic crap," Shiage sighed.

"You never do," Touma laughed dryly. "You kind of just have to go with it and hope it gets better." He wished he could change out of the Kami disguise, but because the car did not belong to them, there were no extra clothes available. He had to be content with driving in a car with darker windows.

"To each his own," Motoharu laughed, highly amused. "Good job at getting Mugino-san to take care of that dragon. We have to assume more of those will appear as the night goes on. We have to destroy the source."

"So the windowless building is the source?" Shiage asked.

"It's being used as the focal point," Motoharu corrected him. "Whoever is causing this phenomenon is most likely there."

"Normally, I prefer to run away from crazy shit like this," moaned Shiage. "But Mugino and the boss both want me to, not much I can say."

"I'll make it up to you," Touma promised.

"Maybe the two of you could go on a double da-... HARD LEFT NOW!" Shiage followed Motoharu's order by instinct and something half the size of the car landed on the road where they would have been. Before they could take a look at the large black creature, another one landed on the front of the car and they had a perfect look.

A large black spider about half the size of the car was smashing against the glass. Cracks were running across the entire windshield. Its red glowing eyes had no trace of a soul, but there was liquid dripping down from its mouth. Its hairy legs were impaled into the side of the vehicle. It's head smashed against the windshield again and part of the fangs broke through.

"Abandon ship!" Touma yelled and the three guys threw open the doors. They tucked and rolled as the car continued to move forward and crash into a light post. The spider was stuck between the metal, but was squirming to get out. Touma struggled to his feet, his back hurting and his head ringing, when he realized their situation. Half a dozen large spiders were surrounding them and a couple more were climbing down the buildings. "Any bright ideas?"

"Touch them with your hand and it should make them lifeless," Motoharu advised.

"I only got enough ammo for one, maybe two!" Shiage yelled.

"Great," Touma moaned. Never did like spiders and now the larger ones. The spiders began to grow close when they heard two female voices.

"DUCK!"

Touma, Motoharu, and Shiage ducked as a couple silver strings flashed above them. Touma blinked and realized they weren't strings, but wires. The wires cut all the spiders on the street into tiny pieces, which fell apart into the paper mache, string, metal and whatever else the original decorations were made from. The remaining spiders on the wall hesitated for a moment and then more began to appear from the top of the ceiling.

"Seriously!" Shiage. yelled out angrily. "Who would make so many Halloween spider decorations that size?!" Touma, on the other hand, turned around to thank the people who had helped them.

"Thank you-," Touma started to say when words failed him for a moment and he blurted out something instead. "A fairy and a Fallen Angel Ero Maid?!"

"I am not a fallen angel, I am not erotic, and I am not a maid!" Touma recognized the voice of Kaori. They drew closer and Touma also recognized Itsuwa in the pink fairy maid outfit. "I… know I'm dressed like this, but it's all Tsuchimikado's fault! Even so, the first words out of your mouth shouldn't be 'Fallen Angel Ero Maid' when you see me!"

"Sorry!" Touma yelled and prepared to cover his head.

"Your shock is understandable," Itsuwa told him and he noticed she was panting a little. Kaori's saint power made it easier to run long distances, but Itsuwa was a normal girl. "With everything coming to life, it takes a moment for people to recognize their allies. Index informed us what is happening. Are you heading to the source?"

"That's the plan," Touma confirmed.

"Go then," Kaori told him. "We will cover you." Itsuwa raised her blade and moved to the left of the street, while Itsuwa wished them luck and moved toward the right side of the street, with her spear prepared to strike. Touma, Motoharu, and Shiage were clear and they ran as fast as they could, since their car was broken.

"Boss," Shiage told Touma. "Your angel girl was pretty hot. The fairy wasn't too bad either."

"You're welcome," Motoharu laughed. "I convinced her to wear that maid uniform for Kami-yan."

"We're only friends!" Touma protested.

"Sure," the other two replied sarcastically. The rest of the road was clear, so that had to mean the army of decorations hadn't made their way to the building yet. They three of them would not be able to tell, but a good part of that was due to two groups. Anti-Skill had blocked off several main roads and then Kami's announcement had caused the streets to swarm with interested students. They finally rounded around the last corner and were forced to stop and examine the situation. They slowly approached the windowless building and looked around.

The entire area was covered by an enormous pumpkin patch. Thick green vines were crawling up the sides of the building and had already reached three stories high. The pumpkins grew bigger the closer they got, ranging from ones that fit in the palm of your hand to ones the size of cars. The weirdest thing was once the pumpkins started to get the size of a watermelon, jack-o-lantern faces. Not cut mind you, the faces started forming naturally. The largest ones were actually glowing, as if a fire was lit inside of them.

"The air is thick with magic," Motoharu muttered. "Kami-yan, try touching one of the pumpkins. Touma nodded and reached down. With the sound of breaking glass, the pumpkin disappeared and the vine near it decayed into brown dust. A few seconds later, it started to grow again.

"If they are drawing the mana from ley lines," Touma pointed out. "Aren't they just drawing energy faster than I can negate?"

"I figured they would," Motoharu agreed. "But I wanted to try."

"Why?"

"Never underestimate the power of simple solutions," Motoharu reprimanded.

"Something moved," Shiage warned them and pointed in the direction. "Over there!" Touma and Motoharu turned to see what Shiage was indicating. One of the pumpkins was shaking and began to lift upwards.

Beneath it was a skeleton.

Not a skeleton that might have been carrying the pumpkin. From the neck down, there were only human bones assembled into a proper skeleton. What was actually connecting the bones together was anyone's guess. Whatever it was, it didn't prevent the bones from moving seamlessly. The skeleton rose to its full height, easily over seven feet, and seemed to stretch. One bony hand tapped the side of the pumpkin, which rested on the neck like a head. It was even roughly the same size as a normal head too, though a little wider. The skeleton turned around to face the three boys and Touma saw the pumpkin was actually a jack-o-lantern. Orange light flooded out of its triangle eyes, nose, and blocked teeth. When the thing noticed them, it started walking forward, Unlike the zombies, its movements were graceful, easily bypassing all the vines and pumpkin around him.

"What is that!?" Shiage demanded.

"The boss," Motoharu answered.

"Lovely night, isn't it?" the thing asked them. The words made it sound like an adult male and, while the mouth didn't move, the light behind his teeth flickered with every word.

"You can talk?!" Touma asked in bewilderment and Shiage gaped in astonishment.

Higher level intelligence from a being created by ley line energy is a bad sign, Motoharu thought silently.

"Of course," the thing continued. "My name is Jack and welcome to my pumpkin patch." Touma could swear the haunted grin on its face widened. "You will never leave."

There's no end to them, Mikoto thought annoyed, as she electrified another dozen living pumpkins and ghosts. While there were plenty of others helping out, only a few of them were high enough level to wipe out groups. Most of them could only take down one at a time or they were using makeshift weapons, like baseball bats. She magnetized her body and propelled up a building to get an overview of the area. Most of the roads were taken care of. People really want that prize from Touma, she thought, slightly amused. But I doubt this is a game. Technology couldn't do something like this, so that leaves magic. Bet it was Eve and that's why Touma needed help. Her phone started beeping and she answered it. "Hello?"

"Misaka-san," Kazari's slightly panicked voice came through. "I'm glad I reached you. You're the only one close enough to handle a big threat."

"Direction?" Mikoto asked and moved across the rooftops, as Kazari relayed the instructions. "Do you know what is going on?"

"A little bit," Kazari admitted. "You probably figured out this is magic…"

"Mmmhmm."

"…and the longer this goes on, the stronger these decoration are going to grow," Kazari continued. "Kamijou-san and Tsuchimikado-san should be at the source now. We only need to hold on until they finish."

"So what am I facing…never mind, I have confirmation. Keep me up to date." Mikoto hung up, looked down at the street below her, and flinched.

A large snake with rotting skin was moving along the overturned cars and broken streetlamps. Its body was easily a meter in diameter. People were running away and shouting. A dumpster flew through the air and hit the snake in the head, but all that action did was anger it. It turned toward the girl who threw it and Mikoto gasped.

"Look out Kongou-san!" she yelled and jumped off the building. She wasn't going to make it in time. Mitsuko backed up and fired a trashcan into the snake's mouth, but it only disappeared down its throat. Mikoto was being propelled by magnetism, but the snake was too fast and closing in on Mitsuko. Right when the snake opened its mouth to swallow her, a blur zipped between them and the snake's fangs hit nothing but thin air. Mikoto grabbed a lamp post and watched Kinuho and Maaya zipping along the street on a small amount of water that moved with them. They were holding Mitsuko up between them. Mikoto landed down next to them in relief. "Is everyone okay?"

"I think it might have eaten a few people," Kinuho said worriedly. "If it wasn't for Kongou-san, quite a few others would have been too."

"She distracted it, and, when it gave chase, everyone else managed to get away," Maaya added.

"I had to hold back," Mitsuko told Mikoto with a frown. "Too much force and it would cause way too much collateral damage if it dodges. Then we also can't attack the body, for risk of harming the other students. I had to aim for the head, but it's a lot tougher than a normal reptile."

"Let me handle it," Mikoto said to them and reached into her pocket. The snake had raised its head and looked around. Once it saw them, it began to slither over. Mikoto positioned herself so only the road was behind the snake from her line of fire. "You should cover your ears," she warned the others, who quickly covered them. The snake raised its head high above her, opened its mouth, hissed, and lunged. Mikoto smiled and fired the coin in her hand.

Boom!

The snake's head exploded and the body fell to the ground. What was once rotting flesh was now paper mache, wirings, and motors. As the body transformed back, fists and feet began to kick their way out of the lower body. Mikoto, Mitsuko, Kinuho and Maaya helped the trapped people out. A thin green slime covered their bodies and the girls quickly wiped their hands off on anything they could reach. It was disgusting and Mikoto was secretly glad she had not been eaten.

"Thank you for the help!" one of the rescued girls said. "Ugh, I need a shower so badly."

"It's not a problem," Mitsuko reassured her. "It's the least someone in our position could do."

"Aren't you the Railgun?" a boy asked Mikoto.

"Oh, yeah," Mikoto answered and tried to stay humble.

"Since you know Kami," he said. "Do you know how he made these things? I could swear we were in a living organism and then suddenly it's only a torn Halloween decoration."

"Sorry." Mikoto shook her head. "No idea. He didn't tell us anything. Anyway, I'm off to see if anyone else needs help. Be careful, everyone." She waved goodbye and took off down a side street toward where she heard more people shouting. Seriously, hurry up and solve this you idiot.

"Next year let's petition to not decorate the city!" Hibiki yelled, as she froze several zombies.

"I don't think we will get very far!" Hanabi called back. The burning remains of several evil clowns surrounded her. "Everyone else seems to be enjoying it. I wouldn't be surprised if this becomes a regular thing."

"Oh, god, I hope not." Hibiki was not interested in doing this every year. Yuna had run off with a group of girls to who knows where and now it was up to her and Hanabi to handle a main street. Sure, there were plenty of other girls helping, but none of them had the offensive capabilities as they did. She was pissed at the fact Accelerator and Bayloupe had escaped her. They had rounded a corner and disappeared. There was no choice left except to return to Hanabi.

Screams of terror came from in front of the sisters and they looked up.

Ten girls were running from what seemed to be a swarm of roaches running along the ground and flying through the air. Hibiki and Hanabi's faces paled. Terror overwhelmed their senses and it delayed their abilities until they were too late. Flames exploded in a panic around Hanabi. Hibiki actually hated roaches too, but she had always been the one to remove insects from their room. The secret was, she was actually terrified of them too. It was just, as the older one, she had to put up a strong front for her sister. Now, her mind went blank at the horror in front of her. Once Hanabi tired out from her random explosions, she would be in the same position.

Let me help out, a sweet voice echoed in her mind.

What… who? Shokuhou-san? Hibiki thought in confusion.

Bingo! I'm going to temporarily dial down the fear in you two so you can take care of those bugs. I really don't like them much either.

Can't blame you there, Hibiki admitted and she found herself able to move again. While she still didn't like roaches, the fear had vanished. A quick glance over at Hanabi indicated she was feeling the same way. They made eye contact, smiled, and turned their attention to the horde. In one swift motion, fire and ice made quick work of the vile insects.

I wonder what the purpose of this is, Misaki thought to herself. She was sitting on a balcony overlooking several major streets. Using her ability, she would help out groups of people by organizing them, reducing fear levels, or letting them know people needed help. This was how she fought. Straight on brute force was Mikoto's forte, not hers. Because of her position as virtually a communication tower, she actually saw a lot of fighting though other people's minds. The fact the creatures seemed real until they were destroyed actually interested her. Her ability only worked on humans, so she couldn't even scan them to see how alive they really were.

Imagine what we could achieve if we could harness magic, Misaki mused. Making decorations move would be a simple task, but to turn them lifelike until they are destroyed is fascinating. The problem is, when this happens, some magician is doing this for a purpose and Touma will find himself in the middle of it. It's obvious why he made this fake contest. We keep the things at bay, while he solves the problem. Be careful my prince and don't do anything too drastic. Heh, I know that's a foolish wish. I believe in your success though. You have never failed me before.

"Hold the line!" Ruiko called out to the group of low level ability users. It was obvious to tell that because all of them were using makeshift weapons out of bats, sports rackets, sticks, pipes, pretty much anything they could find and none of them had any noticeable powers. She brought down her pat and smashed a two foot tall ghost. They numbered roughly thirty against seemingly endless mobs of smaller decorations. "Come on Patricia-san," Ruiko laughed. "Take a swing."

"Doesn't this seem… strange, Saten-san?" Patricia asked. "How did Kami-san manage to pull this off? Nanobots or microfiber skeletons could make things move, but to give the illusion of life and have the very fundamental make up change on destruction is amazing. I really want to study this when I have some free time. Do you think he will show me what he did?"

"Eh, maybe?" Ruiko answered with a combination of a laugh and uncertainty. Can't tell her about the magic side. Leivinia-san was very clear about that. "For now, try to enjoy the Halloween fun." Patricia didn't look convinced and stayed back, clutching the metal rod in her hand. Ruiko gave her a smile and immediately a black cat that pounced at her. Patricia looked on as all the other kids kept hitting the living decorations.

Should I? she thought to herself. Leivinia would definitely tell her to stop being a coward, but this wasn't something simple like trying weird looking food or going to a new store. Patricia was a scientist and she loved to learn and create, not destroy. Instead of smashing all these things, they should capture a few of them and see how they were created. Kami-san is an interesting person. I bet he and my sister would get along great. She giggled at the thought. I still want to meet that one guy she talks about so fondly. I never got a name. Her eyes widened when she saw a dented pumpkin stand back up behind Ruiko and stretch out its vines toward her. "Watch out!" Ruiko turned, but Patricia had already begun to move.

A thick squish was heard when the pole smashed the pumpkin and the force of her blow sent guts onto her angel costume and Ruiko's detective one. They stared at each other for a moment and then Ruiko burst out laughing.

"Wow, that was a nice hit! See, I knew you could do it."

"Thanks," Patricia said meekly and blushed. "It was going for you and I sort of just reacted."

"Thanks for that. So?" Ruiko leaned over and her eyes twinkled. "How do you feel?"

"Exhilarated?" Patricia tried to explain. "Energized? Thrilled? I haven't done something like that before." She was panting slightly, but her eyes were sparkling. "I… want to do it some more."

"Well," Ruiko said and grabbed her hand. "We have plenty of time and targets! It's time to show these monsters what happens when they mess with us!"

"Yeah!" Patricia cheered and they waded back into the thicket.

High on adrenaline, neither of them bothered to question how a young girl, not the most physically active person around, managed to smash a pumpkin with a single blow. Overlooking them, another blonde girl had been watching them and just put her own wand away. Leivinia smiled when she saw how excited Patricia was at destroying the pumpkin. Maybe now she won't be such a crybaby anymore. She stood up, stretched, and looked off toward the windowless building. He hasn't finished this yet? Did he stop for a snack or something?

"This isn't your pumpkin patch!" Touma yelled out. "This area belongs to Academy City and all its residents!"

"That is where you are wrong, human," Jack told them and the light in his mouth darkened. "I was born here and my comrades will be born here. You and your kin are trespassing. We will defend our home with our lives." Touma flinched.

"It's not really alive," Motoharu reminded Touma. "It's the mana from ley lines being channeled collecting thoughts and emotions from people."

"Everyone is fighting to give us time," Shiage added. "We can't afford to talk, boss."

"Even so," Touma muttered. The fact this creature could talk to them and appear to think did not sit well on his stomach. He took an uncertain step forward. "If you don't move, more will come and they probably won't be as reasonable."

"Let them," Jack laughed. "The power here fuels our growth and soon no one will be able to stop us." He turned to stare Touma directly in the eyes. His pumpkin head expression didn't change, but Touma felt himself grow cold. "Their bodies will act as fertilizer!"

"If you think you can threaten innocent people!" Touma yelled. "Then I'll shatter that illusion of yours!" He charged forward, but thick vines erupted out of the concrete and wrapped around his legs. He couldn't react fast enough and fell down. He looked up and saw Motoharu and Shiage finished getting wrapped up, before being lifted into the air.

"Looks like we are a little tied up at the moment," Motoharu called down to him. "Up to you, Kami-yan!"

"I should have stayed in bed today!" Shiage cried out.

The sound of breaking glass went off again, as the vines started to wrap around Touma and eventually touched his right hand. The main vine disappeared and smaller vines near him wilted. I cut off part of the magic, but there's too much to negate it all. I bet Jack is acting as a focal point to distribute it somehow. I have to get to him. Fueled by determination and a plan, he sprung to his feet and charged forward again. Jack jumped several meters backwards effortlessly. This was most likely caused by the fact he had no body fat, so he didn't weigh much. Atkins diet probably.

"An insect that kills our lifelines," Jack mused as Touma rushed him. "Maybe you should burn?" The effects were instantaneous and only Touma's danger sense warned him in time.

Jets of fire erupted from several of the pumpkins at Touma.

"Shit!" Touma muttered and held out his hand. The flames disappeared the moment they hit his hand, but he had to back up or some of the flames would reach him around his shield. Eventually the fire ceased and Touma stood there panting, glad the heat was finally gone. Sweat glistened on his torso.

"Such persistence," Jack commented. "But you need to leave. Your power of death is not wanted here."

"It's not death-…!" Touma tried to explain when a vine wrapped around his foot and threw him backwards into a wall of a nearby building. "AHH!" he cried out involuntarily. His entire body ached, but nothing felt broken as he tried to scramble to his feet. The pumpkin vines were still crawling up the walls next to him and more pumpkins were growing at alarming rates. If they didn't do something, Jack's pumpkin patch would be creating more of him. He grabbed his helmet and threw it to the ground next to him. It only limited his line of sight and its weight slowed him down.

"Circle of life, you know," Jack told him. "Organics grow, die, and become nourishment for more organics. Accept your fate."

"Never!" Touma declared. "My friends and countless others are fighting to give me time to stop you and I won't let them down!" He pushed himself up and off the wall.

"You are-…," Jack began to say when another, much louder voice, interrupted them.

"WELL SAID!" the voice boomed and it sounded to Touma like it was coming from the building behind him. "That took a lot of GUUUUTTTTSSSSS!"

The wall next to Touma exploded.

There was only one person with that catchphrase.

Gunha had joined the battle.

Pieces of the metal and concrete building rained down upon Jack and his garden. Pumpkins exploded, vines were cut, and Jack got hit by a large piece of metal right in the head. Touma glanced over, relieved for the backup, when he stopped. Gunha was wearing a costume, but it definitely was not suited for Halloween. He was wearing a white fur trimmed red jacket and pants with a broad buckled belt, a matching hat, and black boots. A thick white beard was attached to his face and he had a large brown bag roughly the size of him slung over a shoulder filled with something Touma didn't know. Instead of thanking Gunha for his timely arrival, Touma changed direction.

"What are you wearing?!"

"A costume," Gunha answered, looking at Touma as if he was crazy. "It is Halloween, you know."

"But…but… SANTA CLAUS?!" Touma cried out. "That's like… the furthest thing from Halloween as possible!"

"Exactly!" boomed Gunha. "Think about it! I will be the only one with this costume and I have a huge bag of candy to give out to all the child errors who are too young to go trick or treating. They deserve to have a fun holiday too."

"That's… a nice idea, actually." Suddenly, Touma remembered they were in the middle of the fight and he turned away from Gunha. "We can discuss that later, right now, we have Jack to deal with."

"Actually," Motoharu interjected and appeared next to them. "Seems like our friend's sudden arrival was outside Jack's plan. A piece of debris pierced his head and he withered away. Look," he pointed to the pumpkin patch. "Everything is receding. Jack was the lynchpin and everything should return to normal now that he is gone."

"I am never going out on Halloween ever again," Shiage groaned and rubbed his head. He looked around. "That was kind of… anticlimactic."

"Well friends," Gunha said. "It was a pleasure to see you, but I must be off and deliver these treats to the kids. Have fun and show everyone your guts this Halloween!" He bounded off into the distance and quickly disappeared.

"He has a few screws loose," Shiage said. "Doesn't he?"

"I think everyone around me is crazy," Touma muttered.

"Hey! I'm the only reasonable one in ITE… I see your point, boss."

"Heh," Motoharu chuckled and examined the hole in the wall Gunha had made. "This reminds me of the Aogami Incident at Tokiwadai High."

"Are you ever going to tell me what happened!?" Touma demanded.

"Nope," Motoharu answered. "But Hamazura, if you want to know, I can let you in on it if you never tell Kami-yan."

"Sure." Motoharu grinned, put his arm around Shiage's shoulders and started whispering into his ear. Shiage snorted loudly and Touma made a fist.

"If you think you can keep it a secret from me forever!" he yelled. "I'm going to shatter that illusion of yours!" Touma chased after his two friends, completely oblivious to a camera on the windowless building watching them.

"BOOOOO!" Eve cried and fell backwards waving her legs and arms. "He ruined what should have been a great fight. I hate that guy soooo much!"

"It'ss not like you could make the bosss too sstrong," Julunggul pointed out. "The kidss need their rest. I did enjoy sseeing you sselect a pumpkin on a headlesss sskeleton, nice choice."

"I had a hard time narrowing the choices down," Eve admitted. "But I needed something that would remain relatively stationary." She grinned. "I hope Aleister's blood pressure went up as he watched this."

Just as Motoharu predicted, with Jack's demise, all the living Halloween decorations began to turn back to their original forms. It started off slow, but spread out from the windowless building. As the swarms of monsters began to fall, a cheer echoed across the city as the kids who had participated raised their hands in triumph. The excitement was short lived though, because now that the unauthorized event was over, keyword being unauthorized. This meant the adults who had been busy dealing with a large number of the decorations were now free.

Anti-Skill was especially not pleased.

The first thing they did was impose an immediate curfew and all the students were forced to their dorms. Most didn't seem to mind though, as many were tired and a lot had fun. Once the students were off the streets, the cleaning bots were set to work overtime. Many streets had to be barricaded because of the sheer amount of debris. The higher ups knew they couldn't let an vandalism like this go unpunished, as they were under the impression Kami was responsible for this, so the following day, every student had to help clean up the city. It was a one day thing, except for a few select students who were deemed to hold more responsibility for the destruction.

This is why, two days later, Touma was in an orange vest picking up trash while Mikoto leaned up against the park wall and watched.

"How long do you have to do community service?" Mikoto asked and then bit into her ice cream.

"Two weeks," Touma groaned. "Two hours after class each day and five on weekends."

"Did you really expect to get away with it?" Mikoto asked. "This wasn't an isolated incident to get swept under the rub. The entire city was involved."

"That's what confused me," Touma explained and turned to her. "If the higher ups don't know I'm Kami, then why was I punished?" Mikoto frowned in thought and then shrugged.

"Maybe because your friends were involved," Mikoto guessed. "So they considered you were too." Touma conceded that point. Pierce, Motoharu, Jason, and even Accelerator were being similarly punished. How they got Accelerator to do community work, Touma would never know. After all, Accelerator had destroyed part of a city block because something was about to catch Last Order. She and Index had been separated from Floris after Kaori left due to the confusion.

"Still not fair," Touma said. "Such misfortune."

"I have something that might cheer you up," Mikoto suggested and Touma raised an eyebrow. "Kuroko told me something funny after we got ushered back to the dorms. She had gone to find Kagere-san, thinking he had something to do with this or could at least tell her what was happening." Touma nodded because it was sound logic. Jason was the magician Kuroko knew the best. "Well, she found him in a fight with a Grim Reaper." She grinned. "The fight was tough, or so I was told and she said she saved his life." They both laughed, knowing Jason and Kuroko were constantly trying to one up each other.

"Jason admitted Shirai-san found him," Touma confirmed. "But he only mentioned they had to stay in a specific area due to his boss's order."

"We probably won't find out what really happen, knowing those two." Mikoto finished her ice cream and stared at Touma for a moment. "I would have thought Kagere-san's punishment would have been longer, since Uiharu-san mentioned he was blamed for her hacking the city's security due to her using his codes."

"I have no doubt he knows people," Touma muttered, slightly bitter. "Oh well, at least the night ended without a casualty." A few people sported really superficial wounds, but he hadn't heard of anyone seriously hurt.

"Even if it was dangerous and caused by the magic side," Mikoto told him in hopes to cheer him up. "People had a lot of fun. They will be talking about this for ages." She grinned. "Think we can set this up against next year?"

"Do not suggest that to the others," Touma pleaded. "I can't go through all that again." He glared at her as she laughed. "Very funny, Biribiri." That sobered her up and she sparked slightly.

"I was going to buy you some ice cream," Mikoto huffed. "But if that's how you are going to act…."

"I deeply apologize Mikoto-sama," Touma told her, unable to keep from smirking slightly. "This lonely Kamijou-san doesn't deserve such kindness."

"Humph," Mikoto grunted pleased, as she blushed and looked away. "At least you know how to apologize."

"With my luck," Touma reminded her. "I have to do it a lot."

"There is one other thing I was wondering," Mikoto said and looked back at him.

"Oh? What is it?"

"Who won Kami's contest?" Mikoto's amused expression never faltered.

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. Also, enjoy the new cover art made by… he never gave me his ID for whichever art account he uses! He goes by Sponge on discord. When I find out his info, I'll give him credit.

Tokiwadai High School Incident #78:

On the evening of the city wide crime event, the eighth level 5, Kami, and his companions invaded the school grounds and took roughly twenty students hostage. Others were later captured and held with our students. After Anti-Skill disbursed the intruders for causing traffic jams around the school grounds, one individual stayed behind and conducted themselves in a way that was unacceptable to our renown institution. Said individual invaded our students' privacy, stole their property, and caused collateral damage. Pierce Aogami has been official forbidden to enter the school grounds, regardless of future events that may allow entry.

Aogami here, I just wanted to clear a few things up. All I did was burp and everyone overreacted. Sure, I may have been in the girls' locker room but it was to move everyone's attention away from my good friend Kami. It's not my fault the lockers magically opened and panties formed a makeshift armor around me. My head was vulnerable you know. Then I was forced to run away as Hibiki-san tried to kill me with ice shards. Totally an overreaction on her part, am I right? Well, I burst into another section of the locker room where a couple girls were cleaning their uniform from dirt caused by Accelerator's fun. They had the nerve to go commando. How is that my fault? Well, once an ice shard nearly impaled my skull, I was forced to break through a wall or two to escape with my life. I was the victim here! Then of course Kami-yan gets all the girls! He better not complain about his bad luck again.