It's been a while, hasn't it? Holidays are a hectic time and I didn't get to write nearly as much as I would like. I also took a break for about a week to cool down, have fun, and go over some ideas for the future. Man, it was hard to get back into the swing of things once you stop doing something for a bit. A couple days of trying to write and only managed to a few paragraphs out each day. Word of advice for new authors, try to do a little bit each day, but never force yourself to write. The end product never turns out well if you do. Other than that, Happy New Year everyone and hope you are doing well. Not much else to say up here, I think? Some interesting events in this chapter, even if it is slightly shorter than some of my previous ones. There are some big set ups for the next couple chapters. Least of all, the name last chapter that so many people liked to point out. Time for comments and then onward to the main show.
hubb2001: I wonder why you could comment so fast after the chapter came out… The answer is always Josh Groban. No one likes John Cena.
Whwsms: She needed more screen time and it will be funny to watch her interact with a boy who is supposed to be a big shot in Academy City. Remember, she doesn't have a lot of experience with males. Not a lot of harem antics this chapter, but Touma isn't as dense as he once was. Still in a little denial, but it's progress.
Iceflame55: It only took 100+ chapters and over a million words to do so. I never liked the ones where the harem just formed together naturally. It's too unrealistic. There are way too many issues that have to be worked out. Good luck and bad luck are relative. What is good for one is bad for another.
anand891996: Cliffhangers are fun and keep you wanting more. Misaki probably realizes Mikoto is going to join in, so she will accept it. There's a fun little story behind Jason's kidnapping and it will be revealed soon.
edinosaur25: Funny enough, I had a little help with the polygamy relationship information from someone who shall remain anonymous. He helped make me realized the kind of situations you can expect in one. Touma is going to have fun at Tokiwadai. Not all girls are as relaxed around guys as Misaki and Mikoto.
Guest: She needed more screen time and someone not used to boys made the best choice. It took a long time, but the harem is within range. Well, Misaki is probably the least likely to attack others for what one Kihara did to her. The others, well… they have reasons.
akd48: Nah, I'm sure it's easy to talk his way out. Remember, those two have dealt with the dark side of Academy City. Everything is taken with a grain of salt. They don't have any real proof of what he has or has not done.
aGuestfromGreece45: Or will he? If he does, I wonder if you can see how he does it.
general ironox: Of course there will be. Touma in Tokiwadai? Always a fun time.
Mizericordia: I've been trying to. I added the Anti-AIM wavelength for plot purposes and because I doubted Kamachi would ever tell us exactly how the IB erased stuff. There is also the possibility that greater power belongs to Touma that is keeping the dragon at bay. Harem with almost 10,000 clones? Yeah, that could work. He might have to sleep with multiples at once though. At least they can share thoughts and emotions.
Guest13: And I had so much hate early on about him being a self-insert, heh.
Salishious: Have you realized Jason's full plan yet? I felt bad about Itsuwa getting neglected, so I added her this chapter. Snuggle-chan HAS to catch up on anime series. Remember, she wants to observe and occasionally comment, not control. Mitsuko's friends would probably follow her out of curiosity at the very least. Who would have the guts to invite Carissa? Awaki, heh. Not sure what to do with her.
Inacio: I mentioned it was put on hold, getting her to level 2 was good enough for them and more important matters at hand. Takitsubo, but Mugino fills out dresses better.
wildarms13: Awaki is kind of in a weird spot. She could go with Touma or go with Accelerator. Really? You never expected it? Really? Pretty sure half the reviewers commented it on at some point.
Guest: 1) I look at a lot of stuff on mobile and it's a pain to delete stuff on it. I usually wait until I get on my desktop. 2) The difference is, Touma gave them a choice. Kamisato pretty much is they fall or he saves them and then the girl has to go with him. Touma gives them the choice of a third option. They can choose to fall for him or not. As I pointed out, many of them would accept Touma's choice, even if it would be hard. 3) 99%. 4) Not sure what I want to do with her right now. 5) Yeah, I heard.
ReyKingKaiser chapter: That seems like a good fight.
amirread97: The reason: "I was drunk and changed my name. It was an accident!" Oh, that would definitely be a problem.
Acpeters: Well, Mikoto wanted to be with Touma, but Misaki liked him for the same reasons Mikoto did. It resonated with her and made it easier to convince her to accept it. It was one of the few times they could agree on something. I'm going to have a lot of fun with Touma and Mitsuko at Tokiwadai.
Bluejack222: Really? A lot of people commented on that in earlier chapters.
Ddraig99: The downside to harem stories is with more people, the less screen time. Hmm, not sure. She's tied in with someone, but not a good spot has opened up yet.
Purrple Cate: Aisa was a classmate and could not participate. The buy-one-ticket girl has another role.
Generation Zero: Main cast has too much screen time. Time for others to shine. I plan to have a few funny things occur because of this. Misaki might have tried that at one point, but not this time. Touma would not be happy about it. One does not fight against Misaki's logic. Mikoto is conflicted. She wants Touma for herself, but Misaki is saying things she feels. Speaking up was sure to only sow confusion. The two girls don't see eye to eye often, so when Misaki was saying what Mikoto felt, it kind of took her off balance. I like how Jason gets in the spotlight without having to show up. Nah, the confrontation will be boring and predictable, obviously. Remember, they have no evidence Jason did anything, only that his name is Kihara. For all they know, someone might have set him up. Experienced individuals with the dark side know not to jump to conclusion. Think about it. What has Jason actually done that they have seen? Accelerator met Ricane as the doctor, so he knows that guy exists.
Agent Nine: He's needed that conversation all his life.
FrodoFighter: The Harem Countdown. Finally, someone who understands main girls can't win everything. 13 million yen is a lot of high class beef and sushi, unless you're Index. "Yes, because Touma has this convenient esper ability to draw whatever he wants." I knew it. Seiri having to say that was great. Nothing bad, just funny. The talk was much deserved and needed, only 100+ chapters and a million words. "No… well… not really." - Translation: "Yes it was foolish, please don't be angry." He's so easy to read. I have a feeling you don't like Jason. No it wasn't. You knew Jason was a Kihara. I'm pretty sure you mentioned it once. Quit playing innocent. On Jason's death, his last will and testament is for someone to clear his browser history.
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.
"Hey, Touma!" Index said the following morning, as she burst out of the bathroom. "I'm ready!"
"No, you're not!" Touma retorted. "Your hair is soaked and you're dripping water all over the place! Itsuwa and I just cleaned up too!"
"But I don't want to waste time drying my hair with a towel," Index whined. "It takes too long."
"Then use the hair dryer," Touma said exasperatedly. "I've told you a dozen times it's faster."
"I-I hate the dryer!" Index cried out. "It makes a weird growling sound…"
"That's just the motor."
"…and it ate my hair once!"
"What did you do?!"
"Remember when you tried to show me how to use it?" Index asked seriously. "It burned my neck."
"That's because you freaked out when I was trying to use it on you, which led to you punching me in the face and caused me to drop it!"
"Don't make excuses!" Index accused. "Accept responsibility for your mistakes!"
"Excuse me." Itsuwa stuck her head in from the kitchen room. "What exactly is the problem?"
"Index won't dry her hair," Touma sighed. "Now there's water everywhere."
"We don't have time!" Index refuted. "It will dry outside in the sun. I finally get to spend time with Touma and I don't want to waste a minute of it. He's been so busy lately." Her eyes drooped and Touma felt a twinge of guilt.
She's not wrong, Touma admitted silently. With all the craziness going on, I haven't had time to do much with her. "I promised we would spend the day doing whatever you wanted, as long as it didn't kill my wallet, but we can't leave until the mess is cleaned up."
"May I make a suggestion?" Itsuwa asked and Touma nodded, Index turned and looked at her. "Index, I can help you dry your hair with the dryer, while Kamijou-san quickly cleans up the water. Then we can leave. Is that acceptable? I promise to be careful."
"I suppose," Index said reluctantly. It was well known to Touma and Itsuwa she was a technophobe, a person who fears, dislikes, or avoids new technology. "You won't burn me, right?"
"I'll be careful," Itsuwa promised. "But you have to hold still. Nothing will bite."
Thank you, Touma mouthed and went to grab a towel. He had just found one, when he heard Index speak up excitedly.
"Wow, the air is warm!"
"That's how hair dryers work," explained Itsuwa patiently. "It's a lot faster than using a towel and your hair won't stay damp. It's really useful in the winter."
She's just like a mom to Index, Touma thought with a chuckle and walked in on them. Itsuwa was sitting on the floor with Index in her lap, while she dried her hair. Touma wiped down the floor as best as he could and then glanced at the bed. On it was a stuffed bear with a pink heart on the chest. Itsuwa had won it yesterday when they had hung out during the festival for a couple hours. The bear was part of a set and there was another one, which Touma had sitting in the kitchen. It looked the same, except it had a blue heart on the chest. Itsuwa gave it to him as thanks for the fun day. However, now, after his talk with Misaki and Mikoto, he began to suspect it might have been more. Itsuwa had been rather red faced when she gave him the bear. Calm down. You can't believe every girl has a crush on you just because they are nice to you. It's wrong to be suspicious of every little thing. Itsuwa is a kind and gentle girl, who is nice to everyone.
"Hey, Touma!"
"Yes, Index?" Touma replied, snapping back to reality.
"What's the plan today?"
"Well," Touma explained. "I figured we would check out the bookstore Itsuwa mentioned. You sounded like you wanted to see it too."
"Yeah!" Index instantly agreed and Itsuwa smile. "I heard they have a huge fiction section and I want to see what cool books they have there."
"After that," Touma continued. "Depending on the time, we grab lunch, as my kitchen is empty, and then pick up ingredients for supper. When we get back, I figured we could play that board game of yours." Index cheered
"Where did you get that game again?" Itsuwa asked.
"I won it in an eating contest," Index answered proudly and puffed out her chest. "No one else was even close."
"I wonder why," Touma muttered, but couldn't help chuckling. They learned not to offer unlimited food to Index now. It was the first day in a long time where nothing else was planned. Finally, a normal day with friends, almost forgot what that is like with everything that has happened. Though, it's a little quiet… Lessar! Touma looked around for a moment before addressing Itsuwa. "What happened to Lessar? She didn't come back last night and I thought she was still planning to crash here." The dorm room was cramped, but with Itsuwa's futon, all the girls at least had a bed.
"She said she was checking something out yesterday," Itsuwa answered and there was a faint look of concern on her face. "Though, it's not like she ever told me her plans. She sort of just comes and goes as she pleases."
"That's true," Touma agreed. "I'm more worried that's she planning something." He sighed. "Guess I'll be on guard for the next couple of days. There's no way she didn't notice the raffle yesterday." Itsuwa giggled and quickly covered her mouth with her free hand. Index tilted her head in confusion.
"If she doesn't return by tonight," Itsuwa offered. "I'll start checking around to see if anyone has seen her." She felt a little guilty that she had an ulterior motive. If Touma was worried about Lessar, he would be distracted all day. By reassuring him Lessar was not in trouble and that Itsuwa would see what she was up to, Touma would be able to go about his day as normal. Itsuwa didn't get many chances to be alone with him, even yesterday they were constantly surrounded by people. It was fun, but not really intimate like she would have wanted. Of course, she had purposely avoided trying to do anything intimate, mainly because after Touma returned from Australia, he needed a break to just do something fun. Now, she needed to find an opening. Index was sure to be distracted by something eventually. If she saw the chance, Itsuwa was going to try to either tell Touma or, if she could muster up the courage, do something physical, like holding his hand in public. She flushed slightly at the thought.
"That will be great," Touma said gratefully. "Thanks a lot. If I know what she's planning, I can avoid it." Itsuwa giggled again.
"It's no problem," Itsuwa reassured him. "I'm kind of curious about it myself." Once she finished drying Index's hair, she turned off the dryer and addressed Index. "Okay, Index. I'm all done."
"Wow, that was a lot faster than using a towel," Index said in astonishment, as she bounded to her feet. "I could get use to that. Could you show Touma how to operate it like that?" Touma face palmed and Itsuwa was trying really hard not to laugh.
"I'll see what I can do," Itsuwa managed to reply with a straight face.
"Yay!" Index celebrated and then spun around to face Touma. "Can we go now? Please?"
"Alright," Touma said with a nod. "I don't see why not." The three of them left Touma's dorm and took the bus across the city to the new bookstore. The trip was enjoyable and Index spent most of it talking about what she, Last Order, and Fremea did at the festival. Itsuwa also talked about a few stalls she had really enjoyed. Touma occasionally commented when one of the girls expected him to, but he let them do most of the talking. There were many things on his mind, including his talk with Misaki and Mikoto, but he wanted to enjoy a peaceful day with Itsuwa and Index, so he pushed everything else to the back of his mind. Now let's hope my luck holds off until the end of the day. They got off at their stop and as soon as the store came into view, Index started running forward, which forced Touma and Itsuwa to chase after her. Once they were in, Index disappeared into the rows of books labeled fiction.
"It's a rather large store," Itsuwa commented. "When I heard about it, I didn't realize it would be this big."
"It's a chain that finally got permission to set up in Academy City," Touma replied. "They are going to go all out. Still, four stories, but I guess that's a given because of limited room."
"Looks like I need to go to the second floor," Itsuwa mumbled, as she looked at the information sigh near the entrance. "What about you?"
"I guess I'll take a look at their cooking books," Touma said with a shrug. "They might give me some new ideas. They are on… the third."
"I'll see you in a bit then," Itsuwa said. Once you get your book, pretend Index is distracted and go see him. Plan established, they took the stairs together until the second floor, where she departed. Touma ascended one more floor and started walking through the aisles until he found the corner he wanted. Since there wasn't anything he was looking for in particular, he just randomly pulled out a book and skimmed through it.
Who can afford these ingredients!? Touma thought incredulously and slammed the book shut and looked at the cover. Just my luck, first book I grab is how to make five star cuisines. He quickly put the book back and decided to actually read the titles. He traced his finger from book to book until he stopped on one that looked promising. He pulled it out and read the title. '101 Meals Under 500 Yen?' Heh, I wouldn't be surprised if it said 'For Touma Kamijou' under it. He flipped a couple pages and made mental notes of some of the recipes that were doable and looked good. Index might like this one, that one looks horrible, and this one is just…
"Excuse me?" A girl's voice interrupted him and Touma looked up from the book. The girl was a couple feet away from him and wearing a dark blue tank top and jeans. Her hair was long and black with streaks of pink, light blue, and purples. She wasn't the most endowed girl Touma knew, but the girl was slightly larger than Mikoto, not that Touma would ever mention that. A joke wasn't worth putting his life on the line and ruining a friendship. The strange girl had an air of confidence, even though her words had been polite. Touma could not recall ever seeing her before.
"Yes?" Touma asked. "Sorry, am I in your way?" She doesn't seem like a magician. Though, it's not like I can tell.
"No," the girl said and shook her head. "I was actually looking for you. Do you realize how hard it is to find you, Kami?"
Touma's heart sank at her words.
"I-I d-don't know w-what you are t-talking about," he stammered.
"Don't even try," the girl told him smugly. "I just want to talk for a few minutes."
"I still don't know why," Touma continued to lie. The girl sighed at this.
"I suppose if you want to feign ignorance," the girl said and put her hands behind her head. "I'll just reveal who Kami's identity is and you can prove otherwise."
"Alright!" Touma relented. "Please, don't tell anyone and I'll answer your questions."
"That's what I like to hear." The girl smiled and Touma's stomach churned.
Such misfortune.
"You find him?"
"I told you I knew where he was going," spat out Accelerator. He was currently leaning up against the wall of a building a block away from a dorm. "He's leaving now with Flower Girl." Accelerator pushed off and started moving down an adjacent street, making sure not to lose them. "They are going to the Judgment training grounds. Unless you want to deal with all those nuisances, I suggest you get your ass here and we confront them. if you don't, I'll do it myself."
"I'll be there," Shizuri hissed. "I'm interested in what that bastard knows. If he tries to fight, are you ready to use lethal force?"
"I doubt he will," Accelerator replied. "Not with Flower Girl there." He hung up and glanced around the corner at the two of them. Jason was gesturing as they were walking and Kazari was giggling. He couldn't hear them from his location, but nothing looked off. That didn't discourage him. Experience showed just how warped those Kiharas were and how easily they could act normal one moment and a psychopath the next. There are too many irregularities for him not to be involved. Ricane had people looking into him, which mean he knows something. He fought Eve with us several times, so unless this is some elaborate ruse, it has to be related to the city. The fact he hid his name is more than enough to warrant suspicion. He's going something, but if it's for himself or the city remains to be seen. Kihara… anytime you deal with them, normality goes out the window. Freaks, the lot of them. A couple minutes passed and he knew he would have to make his move soon. His timing was made up for him when he saw Shizuri emerge from a side street. They locked eyes for a moment and Accelerator walked out in front of Jason and Kazari.
"Accelerator?" Kazari asked surprised and then smiled at him. "Hello."
"Hey, man," Jason added. "What's up?"
"You…" Accelerator pointed to Jason. "…and I, need to talk. Now."
"Okay?" Kazari glanced up at Jason for some indication of what it was about, but Jason only looked confused. "But It's going to have to wait," he continued. "Kazari and I have mandatory training we have to go-…"
"Oh," said a cold female voice behind them, which caused Jason and Kazari to turn around. Shizuri appeared and stood with her arms crossed. "That's not going to fly. You are going to answer our questions."
"What's going on?" Kazari asked, turning from her to Accelerator and then to Jason.
"I don't know," Jason admitted to her and then addressed Accelerator. "You and Mugino-san normally don't hang out, what happened? Was it Eve?" It was a good guess on his part, as Accelerator usually only sought him out when something involving the magic side happened. Accelerator smirked, but there was no amusement in his eyes.
"No," he told him. "This is about you."
"Me?"
"Last night we learned something interesting while doing some work for the city," Shizuri spoke up coldly.
"And this is the last chance you have to send your girl away," Accelerator added. "I'm not responsible for what happens afterwards." Kazari's eyes widened and Jason shifted his position slightly, so he was standing partially in front of her.
"I don't think I've kept anything important from her deliberately," Jason said to Accelerator. His tone had grown stony at Accelerator's implication of violence. "So if you want me to answer something, hurry up and ask, but don't you dare threaten her, even offhandedly."
"And what are you going to do about it?" Shizuri asked mockingly and Jason's eyebrows narrowed as he turned his head slightly.
"Important, huh?" Accelerator growled. "I find it kind of important, Kagere. Or should I say, Kihara?" His smirk twitched triumphantly when he saw Jason stiffen. "Ah, so you understand why we are curious now?" There was no attempt to hide the mocking tone, but there was still a hint of suspicion. Accelerator and Shizuri were not going to let him go until they received an answer.
"Jason?" Kazari asked. "What is he talking about?"
"Yes," Shizuri repeated. "What is he talking about?" Jason sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose.
"Who told you?" he asked.
"This makes things simple," Shizuri commented triumphantly. "He's not going to deny it."
"Doesn't matter," Accelerator snapped. He stepped forward and pointed toward Jason. "The point is every time one of those damn Kiharas get involved, disaster follows. They always stick their dirty hands into the abnormal reaches of science." He paused and glared at Jason. "I might have thought it was a decoy, but it explains how you are working with the city, researching both the damn hero's hands and us, along with being part of Anti-Skill. The last Kihara I saw with those credentials, they kidnapped the brat." Kazari gasped.
"And he had access to the ability development drugs that were confiscated," Shizuri added and Jason glared at her. She smirked deviously back at him. "Didn't think too much of it at the time, but now, I think you might have stolen it for your own ends."
"I'm sure you are all misunderstanding something," Kazari protested and Jason held out a hand in front of her.
"Well," Jason said at last. "I see there's some explaining to do, but Kazari is right, you are misunderstanding a lot of things."
"Oh?" Accelerator asked. "Why don't you fucking explain it then?"
"Just give us a reason," Shizuri added. "And you aren't walking away from this."
"First," Jason said and held up a finger. "My name was Kihara. I had it legally changed to Kagere a while ago. I suppose the city would have records of that, so I was curious on how you found out."
"You never told me that," Kazari said to him.
"I never really found it to be all that important," Jason replied with a shrug.
"Not important?!" Accelerator asked incredulously. "You being part of that damn family is more than enough reason to know about it!"
"Keep your voice down," Jason sighed. "Or we will have to move somewhere more private." He glanced around before continuing. "Being a Kihara does not mean you are related by blood. It's a name taken on by individuals who want to push science to the extreme. They are the largest gathering of scientist that work for Academy City."
"And you just happened to acquire that name?" Shizuri asked with a sniff.
"I was young and naive," Jason answered with a shrug and then frowned. "I didn't fully understand the implications of that name. I was under the impression it was just a group of scientists who reached further than the rest of the world. Once I found out what many of them were like, I decided I wanted no part in it."
"Is that why you warned my about working for Noukan-san?" Kazari whispered as it dawned on her and Jason nodded. "So, why did you leave?"
"Many Kiharas began to completely ignore all moral and ethics of science for sake of experimenting," Jason spat out. "I may have been young, but even I could recognize that. It didn't sit well with me. They followed the law in most cases, but they always pushed as far as they could. There are some who decided to go too far and caused some problems in the city, but they have been arrested." He locked eyes with Accelerator for a brief moment.
So he knows about the one I killed, Accelerator thought. Shizuri realized arrested also meant killed in this context. Kazari thought about checking the inmate record for Kihara when she had the opportunity.
"I was done with them," Jason continued. "I changed my name and never looked back." He glanced at Kazari. "Noukan is an oddity, even among Kiharas. I just wanted to make sure you were aware of the possibility of them trying to make you do something unethical." Kazari scooted closer to him, but stealthily reached down and grabbed Jason's hand. She felt his fingers close around hers. "There was nothing wrong with changing my name and it's not like it's something I can bring up easily. Hey, did you know I legally changed my name once?"
"Shut it," Accelerator snapped. I can check on that. If it's a lie, I'm done being civil. "That's all well and good, but now, how about you explain why you are one of the scientists in charge of overseeing level 5 development?" Jason raised an eyebrow and Kazari gripped his hand tightly. She wanted to ask about that, but knew she needed to let Jason answer.
"I got promoted," Jason replied, which really explained nothing. Kazari almost face palmed.
"Don't give us that crap," Shizuri growled. "You are one of the few people most of the level 5s know and are involved in the ability development program. Then, after meeting you, we get involved in this magic crap and discover those weird transformations."
Transformations? Kazari thought to herself. Like Shokuhou-san in England? Have the others experienced that? Has Misaka-san?
"To be fair," Jason retorted. "I think that was mostly because of Touma's luck." There's was a short silence at this. Accelerator admitted most of the things that happened was Touma's fault and Shizuri briefly remembered the trip to England, where she learned about magic, was a trip Touma won. Neither would admit it out loud though.
"That's not really fair," Kazari admonished. "Kamijou-san can't control those kinds of things."
"I'll humor you," Accelerator relented, but his tone wasn't amused at all. "How did you get promoted? Give me a detailed explanation or you are going to find your face through a wall."
"You shouldn't threaten-…" Kazari tried to say, mustering up her courage, but Jason put a hand on her shoulder to silence her.
"It simple really," Jason explained. "Originally, I was just working with the generic ability development program. My success in that field caused several higher ups to want me to transfer to level 5 developments, in hopes of ascending someone to level 6." Accelerator's glare darkened and Kazari was hanging onto every word.
Fucker, Shizuri realized. That bastard has been using us as Guinea pigs. Well, at least me. The urge to blast him right there passed through her, but the intelligent side of her forced it down, for now. She wanted to know more.
"At the time," Jason continued. "I didn't want to. I, like most other people, didn't believe level 6 was possible. After refusing them a dozen times or so, they gave up for a while, at least, until we returned from England." He sighed and rubbed his face. "That changed everything."
"Shokuhou-san's transformation!" Kazari gasped.
"Exactly," Jason confirmed with a nod. "It's not like the effect of that went unnoticed when she returned."
"So you decided to transfer purely to help us?" Accelerator suggested sarcastically.
"I would be lying if I didn't say I was curious," admitted Jason sheepishly. "That was something I never expected to see. It pushed me over the edge."
"Do you have fun going through all of our personal information?" Shizuri demanded.
"Most of what I see is your AIM field quantum calculations," Jason told her. "It's not like I see your sizes or something. " Kazari elbowed him in the side as Shizuri growled.
"Not the time," Kazari whispered. "They are really upset."
"Tell us what you know," Accelerator demanded.
"I told you pretty much everything I know for sure," Jason pointed out. "You two, Shokuhou-san, and Misaka-san. There's the technical side, but I don't think you care about that." He rubbed his chin. "I could guess why these changes occurred. They seemed to be caused by the strained relationship of the magic side. Life and death struggles tend to cause people to grow and, with the power you guys wield, the growth is exponentially different."
"Make sense, I guess." Accelerator admitted. "What about the damn hero's hand? The third rate and I had to follow you to get that information."
"You researched Kamijou-san's hand?" Kazari asked. "You never told me that."
"Sorry," Jason apologized to her. "What I discovered quickly became sealed information and those two found out about it before then. I promise to give you an overview later." He turned back to Accelerator. "But, seriously man? You're asking why I wanted to research it? Didn't you want to know what it was after you met him?" Shizuri burst out laughing at this.
"Even I knew that and I wasn't there," Shizuri pointed out. "That was pretty idiotic coming from you. His hand is one of a kind."
"Shut up, bitch!" Accelerator snapped. "The fact Eve and her group know things about it and how to bypass it makes what he says more suspicious."
"Good point," Shizuri agreed, growing serious again. "How do we know you aren't feeding her information about us? There's some kind of spy, that I can agree to. You mentioned Ricane and he's definitely on a wanted list, I checked that out through my contacts, but there is no evidence he is working with the magic side." Jason raised an eyebrow.
"Come on guys," Kazari said and stepped away from Jason. She kept darting her head back and forth. "This is ridiculous. There is no way Jason is working with Eve. How many times has he helped us against her group? He went with you in Rome and he nearly died protecting Shirai-san in England. Jason's been a good friend to all of us and honest about working for the city. We all knew he did that part time already. Besides, doesn't this feel like one of Eve's schemes? Making us doubt each other in order to divide us?"
"And I haven't been able to research anything else on his power," Jason told Accelerator. "I told you that too. Besides, didn't it seem like Eve knew way more than we did?" He looked over at Shizuri. "Still, I didn't even think about the fact you were thinking I was working with Eve."
"All we are doing is covering our bases," Shizuri said passively. "He simply brought up a good point and I followed up on it." Her eyes narrowed. "I still don't trust you completely." Not like I trust most people anyways. At least Kamijou can't lie worth shit.
"Not sure what you expect me to say," Jason said and scratched his head. Accelerator was fed up and stepped forward to grab Jason's collar.
"Listen here," Accelerator hissed. "I told the damn hero this once for holding back information that almost cost the brat her life." Kazari gasped in surprise, but he ignored her. "If I find out you are not telling us something important that threatens certain people, there is nowhere on earth you can flee where I won't find you. There is nothing you have that can stop me and, when I catch you, you will regret it. I will kill you slowly." Jason opened his mouth, but surprisingly Kazari suddenly pushed Accelerator back and stepped between them. it was lucky Accelerator didn't have his collar on, or she would have been knocked back.
"No!" Kazari declared loudly and poke him in the chest with one finger. "You listen here! I have overlooked your threats to Jason, Kamijou-san, and several others of my friends. Mainly because Jason reassured me you were only joking and would definitely not go through with it, but not this time. I'm warning you, as a member of Judgment. If you threaten anyone like that again in front of me, I will take action." Accelerator stared at her in stunned disbelief, which prevented him from cutting her off. Here, the quietest and most polite girl among Mikoto's and Touma's friends was actually berating him. Jason was in a similar situation and had his mouth hanging open slightly as he stared.
Shizuri had taken out her phone and was recording the whole thing.
"Just because you are the number one Level 5!" Kazari continued. "You constantly think rules don't apply to you. I've seen the reports of injuries you have caused, even if they were all declared self-defense. You lack common sense and restraint, which is why I worry about Last Order constantly around her. How she became such a polite and caring girl is beyond me." Accelerator flinched at this. "Jason has been by our side long before we met Eve. He has fought against her and helped many of us out. I couldn't ask for a better boyfriend either, so don't you ever accuse him of something without proof." She took a deep breath to calm herself and then blushed, but held her gaze steady.
"What the hell?!" Accelerator managed to ask. Shizuri was snickering as she put her phone away.
"Jason," Kazari said without looking at him, but she reached over and grabbed his hand. "Let's go. If we hurry, we can still make it to the training grounds without being late." Accelerator and Shizuri watched her drag Jason down the sidewalk. They only heard Jason say one last thing.
"That was pretty hot what you did back there." Kazari covered her face with her free hand, but kept walking forward.
"I still don't trust him completely," Shizuri mentioned to Accelerator. "It's too convenient, but there is still a good possibility the information was left there to get us to doubt him."
"I wouldn't put that past Eve," growled Accelerator. "Her plans are overly complicated and convoluted to the point it's almost impossible to discern what it is."
"Think he's involved in it?" Shizuri asked.
"It's more likely he's involved with something for the city than for Eve," Accelerator replied, after a moment's pause. "I doubt he will ever truly stop being a Kihara." He frowned. "It's weird though. He's too involved with the flower girl and the idiots keep pointing out he's getting involved with the teleporting brat. Things have gotten way too close for simple infiltration."
"Or he's skilled in it," Shizuri pointed out. "Getting into relationships with uninvolved people is a way to hide one's intentions."
"True."
"Aww," Shizuri cooed mockingly. "Could the big bad number one be upset his friend might be a spy?"
"Shut up, bitch!" Accelerator flicked her off for good measure. "What about you? Think he's working for Eve?"
"It's not impossible," Shizuri answered. "But I think you have a point. It's a much greater probability he's working for the city." She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye. "If he is a traitor, what will you do?"
"I'll kill him."
"And his girlfriend?"
"Not like she can stop me." Accelerator couldn't shake the feeling that some of Jason's words felt rehearsed.
Mikoto sat at her desk in her room and sighed. She closed her textbook and leaned back in her chair, bored. She was caught up on all the subjects she had missed Friday when the level 5s were called in for questioning. Due to the festival yesterday, she hadn't done it. One quick glance at the clock told her the day was far from over and she did not have any plans. Usually, Kuroko would drag her to some kind of outing on weekends, but she was busy with the Judgment training and wouldn't be free until that afternoon. Calling Touma was out of the question, not after last night's conversation. Every time she remembered that conversation, her face burned. Someone, Misaki had actually made it seem like a good idea and Mikoto was conflicted. While Mikoto definitely wanted to be with Touma, it was Touma's choice of who he wanted to be with and she would do her best to respect his wishes.
Even if his decision forced her to shock him.
Besides, Mikoto reasoned. I shouldn't be intruding on him every day. He has his own life to live. Maybe I could call Kongou-san and see what she's up to. We don't have many things in common, but she's nice and won't fawn over me. Though, she might be planning for tomorrow. Mikoto felt slightly guilty at how jealous she was that Mitsuko won the raffle and not her, even after her mother helped her out. Her phone started ringing and she jumped slightly at the sudden noise. A quick fumble later, Mikoto glanced at the ID and saw it was from Ruiko. That's right. Uiharu-san is training too, so Saten-san is free. "Hello?" she answered.
"Hi, Misaka-san!" Ruiko greeted cheerfully. "How are you?"
"Okay, I guess," Mikoto answered.
"Bored?" Ruiko asked slyly.
"…How did you know?"
"Both of our roommates are gone," Ruiko pointed out. "So I figured you might not have any plans today and I took a shot at it. Paid off though." She laughed. "Since Uiharu and Shirai-san are busy, how about we hang out? Just us? We haven't done that. Are you free?" Ruiko added that last part after a short pause, like she realized she should have asked that first.
"I am," Mikoto confirmed. "And that does sound fun. I was about to go out anyways. Studying was killing me."
"I know that feeling."
"Did you have anywhere you wanted to go?" Mikoto asked.
"I was going to go to the batting cages if you weren't free," Ruiko said. "But we could do something else if you want."
"No, no," Mikoto stated firmly. "That sounds great. I could use some physical activities to blow off some steam."
"Then I'll meet you there," Ruiko replied happily. "See you soon."
"Yeah." Mikoto hung up and grinned. Well, that was convenient. She's right about the fact we don't do much with just us two. Maybe we can talk a bit, like Kuroko and I do. Touma's warning last night crossed her mind and her grin slipped. Oh, no. Saten-san knows about my Sister. I have to tell her and that is going to be so awkward. She took a deep breath and stood up before beginning to browse around in her closet. Calm down. It won't be that bad. She's very understanding.
"So, er, what do you want to know?" Touma asked the girl.
"Hmm." The girl tapped a single finger against her cheek. "How about your name to start out with?"
"It's Touma Kamijou." Touma frowned and looked at her. "And you are?" The girl's eyes widened and she slapped her forehead.
"Oh my gawd," she said and quickly covered her mouth. She seemed to be blushing slightly. "I was so excited that I actually found you, I completely forgot about my manner. Names Suzuki Hibatani." She reached out a hand toward him.
"It's nice to meet you Hibatani-san," Touma said and shook her hand.
"Hibatani is fine. I'm not big about honorifics."
"Okay," Touma said with a nod. "So, umm, why were you looking for me?"
"Seriously?!" Suzuki asked in disbelief. "Everyone is looking for the identity of Kami."
"Please don't tell," Touma pleaded desperately. "It originally started as a joke from my classmates and spiraled out of control… don't laugh!"
"I'm sorry," Suzuki apologized after managing to calm herself down. "Rest assured, I don't have any plans to tell anyone your secret identity." She grinned at him. "And before you ask, no, I don't want to date you or anything." Touma blinked and she scratched her cheek. "If you didn't think that, sorry. I just assumed… never mind. The reason I was looking for you was I was curious about your ability. You see, I never met someone who could turn probability to zero."
"Huh?" Touma asked confused.
"My ability," Suzuki said proudly and put her hand on her chest. "Is the ability to manipulate probability." Touma blinked and stared at her. "Yeah, that's usually the reaction I get when people find out," she added with a small laugh.
"Manipulate… probability?" Touma asked incredulously. "How… is that even possible?"
"That is the second reaction," Suzuki said. "They question how I do that. It's kind of complicated, and even I don't understand exactly how I do it, but it centers on the Bertrand Paradox." The confusion must have been evident on Touma's face because she rolled her eyes. "Yeah, few people know about it unless they delve into probability, so I'll give you an overview. Consider an equilateral triangle inscribed in a circle. Suppose a chord of the circle is chosen at random. What is the probability that the chord is longer than a side of the triangle?"
"Uhh."
"I'll save you the math," Suzuki laughed. "Joseph Bertrand gave three arguments, all valid, yet they yielded different results. He could come up with the correct answer of one-fourth, one-third, and one-half."
"Wait," Touma interrupted. "Then how could you get three different possibilities from one problem? I mean, even if you flip a coin one hundred times, the probability is still fifty-fifty."
"It's actually not," Suzuki pointed out. "What happens if it lands in a crack on its side?"
"But the odds of that-…"
"Exactly," Suzuki interrupted. "Regardless of the odds, the possibility is still there. We round things to simplify outcomes. With the Bertrand Paradox, his problem's classical solution thus hinges on the method by which a chord is chosen at random. It turns out that if, and only if, the method of random selection is specified, does the problem have a well-defined solution. There is no unique selection method, so there cannot be a unique solution. The three solutions presented by Bertrand correspond to different selection methods, and in the absence of further information there is no reason to prefer one over another."
"So he got different outcomes by changing how he selected the chords," Touma stated and she nodded. "So how does that work with your power?"
"I can sort of… manipulate… how randomness is defined," Suzuki explained. "Thus, by doing so, I can fix the outcome to what I wish."
"I still don't understand how that works," Touma said and leaned up against the bookshelves. "What do you do to actually change randomness?"
"My personal reality," Suzuki answered with a shrug. "You're friends with the number 3, Railgun, right?" Touma nodded. "Well, where does she get all the energy for her ability? It's one thing to manipulate something already there, another to produce it yourself. Realities affect and change the world around us."
"Makes sense," Touma said passively. I guess? Not like I would know. But she brings up a good point. I should ask Mikoto that the next time I see her.
"So," Suzuki continued. "Now that I told you about my ability. How about you tell me about your negation one? That's what I'm really interested in."
Figures, Touma thought and sighed. "Fair's fair I guess." He noticed her bright smile and he felt slightly better. This girl was simply curious about him and didn't mean him harm. It wasn't really misfortune, just bad luck that he nearly had a heart attack when she told him she knew his secret identity. "My power is known as Imagine Breaker and, as you said, it has the ability to negate the supernatural." He purposely avoided saying magic. "It actually wasn't developed in Academy City so it's not really an ability. It was something I was born with." Suzuki tilted her head slightly at this. "Because it's not an ability, scientist can't measure it, so I'm normally labeled a level 0. It's always why they can't find me, as a friend of mine made a device to give me a fake AIM field when disguised.
"That's pretty cool," she finally said. "So, do you have any idea how it actually negates abilities?"
"It produces what scientists," Touma decided it was better not to mention Jason directly, "called an Anti-AIM wavelength. When it makes contact with someone else's, the corresponding waves cancel each other out."
"And you thought my ability was impossible?" Suzuki looked at him incredulously and then laughed. "Well, I don't think you are the kind of person to lie to me." She leaned forward and stared into his eyes. "Definitely not, so I'm going to trust you." She smiled at him and Touma felt himself smile back before he realized it. Suzuki leaned back and pulled out her phone. "I wish I could stay and talk more, I still have a lot of questions." She raised an eyebrow, grinned, and held out her hand. "Phone."
"What?"
"Give me your phone so I can get your number."
"Why?" Touma asked suspicious. This is too convenient. Does she want something?
"I want to meet up with you later when we both have some free time," Suzuki explained. "And I think you might skip out on contacting me if I give you my number." Touma couldn't fault that logic, he probably would have. He finally relented and handed her his phone. A moment later, his phone was thrust back into his hands and the girl spun around on her heel. "Bye, Kamijou-san. It was nice meeting you."
"Wait!" Touma called out and she stopped. "I should have asked earlier, but how did you even find me in the first place?" Suzuki turned back slowly around and looked at him. The amused look on her face told him she was waiting for him to ask.
"It wasn't easy," Suzuki admitted and glared at him like it was his fault. "After your little stunt at Tokiwadai High, I thought it might be interesting to find you. That started my grand journey." Her glare intensified for a second and then relaxed. "Seriously, I had no idea why it was so hard until recently. I might have been searching blindly but, with my ability, I should have been able to run into you. I was using my ability to search areas where I had over ninety percent chance of meeting you. Days went by and nothing. I couldn't figure out why!" She flicked a strand out of her face.
"What happened recently?"
"The raffle," Suzuki declared.
"The raffle?" Touma asked and then his eyes widened as it hit him. "You tried to rig the drawing! I negated something and had no idea what it was."
"Yep!" Suzuki confirmed, completely unabashed. "Drawings, with very fixed chances of success and failures are easy to manipulate, regardless if there is a hundred or a million. Though, I can't create something with no chance of happening yet. If a drawing was for a gold ball and there was no gold ball, I couldn't make that ball appear. I was told I would have to be level 5 or even higher to manipulate reality like that."
"I think I will never settle something with you that involves flipping a coin," Touma groaned.
"That is probably a good idea. I flipped a coin a thousand times for one experiment and every outcome was heads." She glanced at her phone again. "I really have to get going. I'll message you in the next couple of days when I'm free."
"Yeah," Touma said and waved to the girl disappearing behind the bookshelves. She seemed nice and pretty normal. Probability manipulation, huh? Jason might know more about how that works. He glanced back at where the girl disappeared. She was pretty cute though and her hair was interesting to say the least.
So you do have the thoughts of a healthy young male! The sudden female voice caused Touma to jump a foot in the air.
Julunggul! Touma thought in shock. You were here?
Yep and saw everything. You handled that well and the girl is going to call you. She's not interested in you romantically yet, but that is easily fixed. The opportunity will come up and I can help you.
No, no, no! Touma retorted immediately. A new friend at best, please don't try to make me court her.
I was just joking, Julunggul laughed. As I told you before, I'm here to observe and advice. Forcing you to do things will not allow you to step into manhood. It must be your choice.
Thank you, Touma told her. Where have you been? You haven't been talking much.
Awww! You missed me. Want me to materialize into my human form in your bed tonight? We could get cozy…
NO! Touma shouted mentally. I expected you to be…
…Up to something? Julunggul finished.
Yes, Touma admitted, slightly guilty.
I've been listening and keeping up to date, Julunggul said. But I saw an anime that came out recently called Gamers! and was hooked.
…
Hey! That was rude. Don't make me punish you. I will and I know 75,476 hilarious ways to do it, and that's just off the top of my head.
I'm sorry and please don't, Touma begged.
So, what you going to do about your conversation yesterday? Julunggul asked. Any ideas on moving forward with it?
A harem still sounds… unnatural, Touma admitted. But Misaki had an answer to all my concerns. I kind of know what Mikoto thinks of it, but I'm kind of curious what other girls Misaki had talked with. Maybe I should talk with them about how they feel?
A wise approach, Julunggul told him, sounding slightly proud. It will help ease your worries if nothing else. Now, one of your well-endowed soulmates is approaching. You should act like I'm not here.
Huh!? Touma exclaimed but before he could ask Julunggul anything else, Itsuwa rounded the corner. She turned and waved, before starting to walk towards him. Great, now I'm only noticing her chest. Thanks.
You're welcome.
I was being sarcastic!
"I'm so tired," Kazari sighed and flopped down on one of the benches. It was around midday and the Judgment training was finally over. Every member of Judgment had to pass the physical training periodically. To ensure they were in shape to perform their duties. As Kazari was mostly support in her branch, the lack of constant patrolling didn't keep her as fit as someone like Kuroko. Jason's going to be a couple more hours because Anti-Skill has to do more, like firearms training. She wasn't sure how she felt about that. Sure, Anti-Skill had them, but Kazari didn't like the thought of them being used to kill people. Jason rarely carried one and she could tell he wasn't a big fan of them either.
"Maybe you should try going out on patrols more often?"
"Shirai-san?!" Kazari exclaimed and jumped slightly. "I didn't hear you approach."
"I saw you slumping over and collapse," Kuroko responded with a smirk. "I wasn't trying to be stealthy. You must be really tired." She sat down on the bench next to Kazari and passed her a water bottle.
"Thanks," Kazari said gratefully and took a sip. "Not like I'll get much of a chance anymore. I start my new job tomorrow. I only came because even part-time has to complete the training." She pulled out her phone to check messages. "Seems like Saten-san and Misaka-san were hanging out today."
"Uh, huh." Normally, this would have infuriated Kuroko. Someone spending time with Mikoto that wasn't her would be blasphemous. Everything started changing merely a few weeks ago. There were much more important things on her mind now. Kuroko wanted to ask Kazari about Jason's response to her confession yesterday, but she couldn't form the words.
"Are you worried?" Kazari asked, clearly identifying the source of Kuroko's lackluster response.
"About?" Kuroko asked, trying to play it cool.
"Come on, Shirai-san," Kazari prodded. "We both know what I'm talking about." Kuroko stared at her friend and finally nodded. "Jason did tell me about what happened yesterday."
"Everything?" Kuroko asked, her throat going dry.
"Yes," Kazari confirmed with a nod and Kuroko's heath dropped. "He said he didn't feel comfortable keeping me out of it and wanted to confirm you did talk to me about it." She smiled, though it was a little forced. "Jason accepted I encouraged you to tell him."
Well, yeah, Kuroko thought. We all know you are extremely honest. "So he told you I confessed… anything else?"
"Only that you kidnapped him," Kazari stated and the corners of her mouth twitched. Her brows then narrowed. "Why, did something else happen?"
"Well…," Kuroko muttered thinking fast. He didn't tell her I kissed him? I was sure… but this might be a good thing. "I got kind of emotional during it and sort of mentioned… some of the stuff we talked about."
"Oh." Kazari flushed. "I mean… I know you told him I said you should confess… but how much more did you say?"
"That you put his happiness before your own," Kuroko invented quickly and started then quickly dug her knuckles into the side of Kazari's head.
"Shirai-san!" Kazari cried. "The flowers." Kuroko laughed and Kazari glared at her. However, Kazari had a hard time giving people angry looks and it reminded Kuroko of a puppy. "So... what did he say about that?"
"He was worried," Kuroko said, trying to remember his exact words. "That being selfless is going to get you hurt."
"That sounds like him," Kazari said softly. They sat in silence for a few minutes and watched other people leave the area. Once the initial rush of people were gone, Kazari stood up and stretched. "Want to get going? Jason won't be finished for a couple more hours and we could hang out with Misaka-san and Saten-san."
"Sure," Kuroko said, only half-interested. The two of them walked in silence until a question that had been eating Kuroko finally burst out. "When you and he talked, did he… er… indicate what his answer might be?"
"…No," Kazari answered, after a moment's pause. "I tried to avoid the topic to prevent influencing his decision. I was worried he might choose me so I wouldn't get hurt."
"We talking about the same person?" Kuroko asked sarcastically, as she tried to lighten the mood. "He's always been pretty direct and never once said something he didn't mean." Kazari laughed. "I feel bad now."
"Why?" Kazari asked curiously.
"Part of me was worried last night about the possibility you might try to influence him," Kuroko admitted, while avoiding eye contact. "I kept telling myself you wouldn't… but I kept thinking about."
"That's understandable," Kazari reassured Kuroko and patted her on the back. "We are all people with emotions and emotions are hardly logical." Kuroko felt Kazari's hand tremble slightly as it touched her back. "I won't lie. I've been worried too and I wanted to ask him about his decision dozens of times." She took a deep breath. "But I remain true to what I told you before, Shirai-san. It's his decision and I want him to be happy."
"And I agree with you too," Kuroko replied. The atmosphere wasn't completely clear, but it was a lot lighter than it had been. They stopped at an intersection and waited for cars to pass.
"Oh!" Kazari stated. "Something weird happened this morning."
"Weird?" Kuroko asked. "Like magic weird or…?"
"Accelerator-san and Mugino-san showed up in front of Jason and me."
"Why? I was sure those two didn't like each other much."
"It seems they found out some information about Jason from somewhere," Kazari said with a frown. "And they thought it might have been possible Jason was… working for someone else against us, like Eve?" Kuroko stared at her in disbelief as a van pulled up to the side of the road.
"Seriously?!" she exclaimed. "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard of."
"I know, right?"
"He fought Eve with us several times," Kuroko continued. "And he was severely injured twice saving us."
"That's what I said," Kazari responded, slightly aggressively. "That wild theory sounds like someone is deliberately putting down false information."
"To divide and separate us?" Kuroko asked and Kazari nodded. "Yeah, that sounds like something Eve would do." She frowned. "So she's targeting Jason, or the spy she has in the city is targeting him?"
"I would definitely say that's a possibility," Kazari agreed.
"What was the information they discovered that made them doubt him anyways?" Kuroko asked.
"Turns out Jason had his last name changed when he was younger," Kazari said with a shrug. She decided the exact details about it weren't needed here.
"Really?" Kuroko asked surprised. "Was his old name lame or stupid in some way?"
"He was distancing himself from a group with a similar name," Kazari explained. "They didn't see eye to eye and he didn't want people thinking he belonged with them."
"That doesn't seem so bad," Kuroko stated. "I mean, a lot of people change their names. It's not really common, but it's far from rare."
"Yeah," Kazari agreed with a nod. "Which is why I had a hard time understanding why they jumped to a conclusion."
"Those two are just paranoid…"
"Excuse me," a girl interrupted and the two of them turned around. A girl around Mikoto's age with brown hair tied into pigtails and holding a map was addressing them. She glanced at their armbands. "Are you part of Judgment?"
"We are," Kuroko replied. "Is something wrong?"
"Do you think you could help me find a store?" the girl asked. "I'm not normally in this part of the city and I think I'm lost." She hung her head in defeat.
"Sure," Kazari told the girl. "Where are you trying to go?"
"Renshin's Appeal on Seventeenth Street," the girl said and pointed to a place on the map.
"There's the problem," Kuroko told her and pointed to a sign. "We are on Sixteenth Street. You need to be one street over." The girl looked at the sign and face palmed.
"I'm so stupid," the girl moaned. The similarity between her and Touma made the other two girls force themselves not to giggle.
"It's okay," Kazari reassured the girl. "Many of Academy City's streets look the same. It's one of the reasons I use the GPS function on my phone when searching for a place I haven't been to before."
"I should try that," the girl agreed. "And thank you for your help. Both of you."
"It was no proble-….Ghk!" Kuroko suddenly felt a rush of electricity surge through her body and a similar cry from Kazari told her she felt it too. Kazari slumped first and Kuroko managed to hold on a fraction of a second longer before her vision blurred and she fell unconscious. There was no time to try to teleport away and the pain prevented even the possibility of performing those calculations. The two unconscious girls were dragged by two guys into the back of the parked van. The girl followed and slid into the front passenger side of the van. The second the doors slammed shut, the vehicle started moving. It happened so fast and the van blocked most of the street from being able to see. No one seemed to have noticed and the girl leaned back in her chain.
"I felt so stupid doing that," she sighed and glanced at the driver. "I'm the one who tells you where you are when you get lost, Sadoa."
"Not cool, Chikako," Sadoa replied. He was a high school boy with red hair combed back "You were the only one of us who could get them to drop their guard. Still, it went so smoothly, I was sure something was going to happen."
"The Doctor's information was perfect," Chikako replied. "He knew where they were and what path they were going to take. We only had to wait."
"This girl is resilient," one of the two guys in the back said, as he gestured to Kuroko. "We tased her with a specially modified one for five times the output of a normal Taser, and she still lasted longer than the other girl."
"That girl is best friends with the Railgun," Chikako explained. "If we were seen, our lives would be forfeit. While the Doctor might be able to handle a level 5, we sure aren't."
"I heard what happened when Accelerator had a run in with a Skill-Out faction," Sadoa added dryly. "It wasn't pretty."
"And the city ignores whatever that bastard does," the second guy in the back muttered darkly. He finished tying Kuroko and Kazari. "So we taking these two back to the base?"
"Nope," Sadoa said. "We have a new destination. The Doctor has a place set up for our true target to meet us at. Tell me when to turn Chikako."
"You don't remember the way, do you?" she asked smugly.
"…"
"Thought so."
"Did you find anything while you were waiting?" Itsuwa asked Touma, as they and Index sat at a hamburger place and enjoyed their lunch.
"A couple ideas," Touma replied and then bit into his hamburger. "Most of it was way outside of my food budget, but there were a few recipes I think you and Index might like."
"Does it involve pudding?" Index asked, before another hamburger vanished into her black hole of a stomach.
Thank you so much Itsuwa, Touma thought to himself in relief. Index had a small pile of hamburgers in front of her and was going through them at an alarming rate. You helped feed us so much. "There was a dessert or two I might try on a special occasion."
"Like next week?" Index asked hopefully.
"What's next week?" Touma asked curiously.
"It's umm… my birthday?!" Index answered and then diverted her eyes. Her embarrassment didn't stop her from eating another hamburger.
"Index," Touma said slowly and firmly. "Is that true? I thought nuns weren't supposed to lie."
"We don't lie," Index replied frantically and then pretended to count on her fingers. "Never mind, I was mistaken. I had the wrong month."
"Uh huh," Touma said and squinted at her while Itsuwa giggled. He eventually sighed, forgave her, and turned back to Itsuwa. "So there's a supermarket on the way back we can stop at. They have a huge sale today I've been waiting for all week."
"That sounds lovely," Itsuwa replied and then frowned. "Do you always have money troubles? I thought the Priestess was supposed to help cover Index's room and board?"
"She has!" Touma confirmed and shook his hands out in front of him. "It's been a life saver." He looked up at the ceiling for a moment and then continued. "The city gives each student a stipend and the amount is based on their level. Higher levels get more as they give the city more data on our abilities. As my hand is not a science ability, I'm considered a level 0. My money situation has always been pretty tight." Probably, I don't remember, but I doubt the previous me could have fared much better on that amount.
"That doesn't sound fair," Itsuwa said concerned.
"Well Academy City is a business," Touma continued. "So people who give them more would naturally receive more in return. It's just how it is and we agreed to this."
"Still," Itsuwa pressed on. "If you would like, I could keep sending you a little to help out-…"
"No, no, no," Touma protested. "You have done so much for us already. I can't become a burden to you, even if it is just a little bit." I can't keep accepting money from people. You have to work on being self-sufficient before you can even consider having a girlfriend… or… gulp… a harem.
"Hey, Itsuwa," Index interrupted, now that her pile of hamburgers was gone. Her eyes fell on Touma's fries and he pushed them toward her, which she happily accepted. "What's the situation in England now that Adam has been beaten?"
"It's calmed down," Itsuwa told her. "The second princess has earned a measure of freedom back and the country is returning to normal. They are still marshaling forces in preparation for whatever Eve is planning, but until she makes a move out in the open again, they can hardly come into Academy City." Itsuwa frowned. "There were rumors of the princess being engaged and the queen had sent her to meet him." Touma was drinking when he started coughing. Index and Itsuwa turned to see if he need helped, but he stopped quickly enough. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah," Touma answered and took a deep breath. That letter… please say she's not here. Please let it all be a joke. "I just found it surprising Carissa actually got engaged."
"Everyone did," Itsuwa said with a small laugh. "That's why it's only a rumor. It's probably some diplomatic venture or a military training event." Touma really hoped it was. She glanced at the clock on the wall. "Should we head to the market?" she asked. "We don't know how long the lines will be."
"Probably," Touma replied. "If it was a convenience store, I would have been there first thing in the morning. A supermarket though, they don't run out that easily and sales are all day." He suddenly looked nervous. "Though… with my luck…" He trailed off. "Yeah, let's go." He turned to Index. "Are you finished?" She looked down at the empty wrappers on the table.
"Can we get more?"
"You're finished," Touma told her and Index started pouting. The three of them left and Index began dragging her feet. When she fell about five feet behind them, Touma and Itsuwa stopped. "Index," Touma asked. "What's wrong?"
"So… tired," Index yawned.
"Why!?" Touma asked incredulously.
"Didn't sleep much last night," Index admitted. "Was too excited about today and now that I have food… I want to sleep."
"She did toss around a bit much last night," Itsuwa added and then quickly turned her head to gaze down an alleyway.
"Seriously, Index?" Touma muttered and face palmed, but he still smiled. While Index's hunger and completely ineptitude with technology frustrated him, he wouldn't change her. She was young and innocent with curiosity he didn't see much in people anymore. "Okay, change of plans. Itsuwa can take you home and I'll go to the store-…"
"NO!" Itsuwa interrupted, a little more forcefully then she intended. Touma and Index turned to her wide-eyed. Itsuwa rarely raised her voice. "I mean… you should be resting Kamijou-san. I was going with you to help ease the burden. Why don't I pick up the groceries while you and Index head back earlier? You can set up the game and start reading the rules until I return."
"But-…" Touma tried to say, but Index jumped on the interrupt Touma bandwagon.
"I agree with her, Touma!" Index cried. "This way, you can't disappear all day if I'm with you."
"I don't disappear all day," Touma protested and Index glared at him. "Not on purpose," he added lamely.
"No buts," Index continued and grabbed his hand and started pulling him after her.
"I thought you were tired!" Touma cried.
"If you backtalk I have to punish you to bring you back to the path of righteousness," Index told him, as a dark Aura formed around her and she bared her teeth.
"I'll go with you," Touma said quickly and pulled out a piece of paper from his pocket. "Here, Itsuwa. It's my grocery list." She nodded and accepted it. Thank you, he mouthed and she smiled at him before waving goodbye. Touma left with Index and Itsuwa wanted until they were out of sight. Once they were, her grin slipped off her face and she turned down the alleyway. Her collapsible spear combined in her hand. "Alright, show yourself. I know you are there and were watching us." She was met with silence, until a figured dropped from one of the fire escapes attached to the wall of the building.
Itsuwa had to guess the person was a boy, but he was very feminine and could have been mistaken as a girl. The boy was white-skinned and dressed in primarily yellow and black. He wore a tight-fitting shirt and pants as well as a dark stole around his shoulders. He had blue eyes and blond hair that reached his waist. Moreover, he was wearing fingerless gloves, with an unusual marking on its palms. Two belts crossed each other, and his belt buckles look like two goat heads. The boy sauntered over to her and his eyes didn't betray any fear or even irritation that Itsuwa found him out.
"Not bad," the boy said. "Didn't expect you to detect me. You're pretty skilled, but I don't have any qualms with you today. How about you go shopping and I go and meet that Kamijou-chan."
"Who are you to be talking about him so informally?" Itsuwa demanded. "And what do you want with him?"
"To fight," the boy replied. "I would prefer you leave so I can avoid the unnecessary bloodshed though."
"Never," Itsuwa growled. "Anyone who threatens him will have to go through me."
"I tried to warn you," he sighed. "Do you think he will be happy to learn you threw your life away so easily?" Itsuwa didn't reply, but her eyes narrowed. "Oh, well. I tried. Let's finish this up fast and I'll catch up with him."
After waiting for ten minutes before someone informed them the bus had broken down a couple stops earlier, Touma and Index had to head back to the dorm on foot. It was a good fifteen to twenty minute walk, so they had time to talk, though Index was mostly excitedly chatting about her new game. Touma figured he was the one who was going to have to read the rules multiple times to understand them, as Index had a perfect memory.
"Have you heard from Kaori lately?" Index asked out of nowhere.
"No," Touma admitted and turned to look at her. "Actually, it's been awhile since I've seen her. Why?"
"She promised to take me to a unique dessert shop," Index explained. "But she disappeared a couple days ago and hasn't returned. "I'm a little worried."
"She does a lot of work for the church," Touma reassured her. "She's probably out on a mission of some kind. Her strength is real, so we shouldn't worry too much. I bet she's looking forward to going with you when she returns."
"That's true," Index said with a nod and considerably brightened up again. "Kaori doesn't lie." She immediately started talking about their plans for the rest of the day, but Touma was only half listening. His mind had, once again, turned to other things.
Harems.
Touma could no longer deny the fact that it might be possible for him to have one. Why him? He still had trouble figuring out. He wanted to talk to someone about it, but his options were limited. Of course, he wanted to find out who Misaki had already talked to about joining and find out why they liked him. The other was finding an adult, someone with life experience who was not related to him, to give him some advice. Maybe sensei can help. I'm sure she can advise me on what I should do… what do I even want to do? A part of him was enticed by the possibility. Harems were something that always seemed like a fantasy. His friends didn't make it seem like it was a possibility either. The other part of him, a more down to earth part, continued to tell him it wasn't possible. Its arguments continued to center around the fact it wasn't fair to the girls and he didn't deserve one.
"…TOUMA!"
"What!?" Touma cried, as he finally snapped back to reality. Index had been tugging on his sleeve and trying to get his attention. He looked around to see where they were. "We are only a couple blocks away-…"
"That's not the issue!" Index interrupted. "You walked right into a People Clearing Field! I tried to tell you, but you ignored me!"
"A People Clear…CRAP!" Touma spun around and made sure Index kept close. "Is it Eve?"
"Wrong!" an amused voiced announced and Touma turned to face the newcomer. A feminine boy with long blonde hair dressed in a very particular fashion, even by Academy City's standards, was walking toward him. "Ah, Kamijou-chan! We finally get to meet face to face!"
"Who are you?" Touma asked, making sure to keep himself between him and Index. "And how do you know me?"
"Who wouldn't know the amazing high school boy who not only defeated one of the oldest beings alive in this world?!" the boy said, being unnecessary dramatic. "Then, during the darkest hour when Fiamma was about to win, you somehow summoned the strength to continue fighting. Imagine everyone's surprise when you won!"
"Who are you?" Touma repeated.
"I'm just a normal magician," the boy said. "But you can call me Thor."
"Thor," Index repeated and glanced up and down the boy's outfit. Her eyes stopped on the two belt buckles shaped like goats. "Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr, the goats who pulled the Norse god Thor's chariots."
"Norse god… Is he a magic God!" Touma asked in horror.
"Don't be silly," Thor laughed. "I just took the name and my magic is based around him. There is no way I'm the level of a god."
"He's telling the truth," Index confirmed. "I do not believe he has ascended to godhood."
"So… Thor," Touma said, trying to remain calm. "Why are you here? Are you after Index? Are you working for Eve?" His eyes narrowed. "Did you come for my hand?"
"None of the above," Thor answered. "But the last one is kind of close." Touma's eyes narrowed and Thor laughed. "No need to be so serious, we are just talking right now."
"You still haven't told me what you want," Touma pointed out. "It's only natural to be on my guard."
"I came here with a single purpose," Thor finally answered. "I want to fight you." Touma and Index stared at him, their mouth hanging slightly open. "That's it. I'm not looking for anything else."
"What the heck is that answer!?" Touma demanded. "Who just wants to fight for the sake of fighting?!"
"Me," Thor said flatly. "As I said, I'm just a normal Magician. I'm not a Saint, a monster like Eve and Adam, or something born with talent surpassing my colleagues." He held out a hand and clenched it into a fist. "If I want to get stronger, I have to do it the old fashion way. Hard work, sacrifice, dedication, and the pursuit of strength is what normal people have to do to reach the levels of the others. If something is too far away to ever reach, most would just give up. But that was not the case for me. By stacking everything up, I made it close enough to grasp the stars in the night sky. This strategy is a bit dangerous, but it's as easy as climbing up on the table to reach the top shelf. There is no reason to call my parents to help."
"You stack these achievements up by…?"
"By fighting worthy opponents," Thor stated simply. His eyes flashed dangerously. "And you have garnered my attention."
"That's insane," Touma said. "We have no reason to fight. I don't have any grudge against you and you don't sound like you have a grudge against m-..."
"You're thinking about this wrong, Kamijou-chan," Thor interrupted. "Anger and hate are not the only reasons to fight. It is not only the bad guys who clench their fists and go in for the punch. You should know that better than anyone, so you can't stop me from doing this. But most importantly, I'm all fired up. My engine has been running full-throttle ever since I first heard about you."
"This power you seek," Touma asked dryly. He didn't see a way out of this conflict without Index and him making a break for it. This option was still on the table. "Why do you want it?"
"I'm not sure anymore," Thor admitted after a brief pause. He tilted his head in a combination of amusement and confusion. "At some point I either wanted to power to save someone or I saved people so I could gain power. That has gotten so jumbled up inside me that not even I know the answer, but that is the essence of what I am. I keep repeating the cycle to gain more and more power, and I reach my hand out to save whoever needs saving during the process. …I have no simple power from some special source, but I continue to reach my hand out and that ultimately builds up more power within me. In that way, I am quite a bit different from you."
Touma stared at him as his brain processed the difference between the two.
Thor's words rung true to Touma. He had to reason to believe the guy in front of him was lying and the difference was clear. Touma saved people merely because they needed saving. He didn't expect or want anything out of it. There was no increase in strength. Once the fight ended, Touma went back to his normal life and the other side would go back to theirs, hopefully for the better. Thor saved people for a much more selfish reason. The magician in front of Touma fought strong opponents to improve in the heat of battle. It is said that a person can tap into power they never realized they had in life or death situations. To Touma, it sounded like Thor was fighting strong opponents to push himself to his utmost limits in order to break them. As he said, this was a dangerous process. The magic side was unforgiving to those who risk their lives needlessly.
Still, Touma had no reason to comply.
"This is stupid," Touma said firmly to Thor. "I'm under no obligation to fight you for your own amusement. I want to live a normal life and I only fight when there is no other option."
"No other option?" Thor asked and frowned. It was obvious he wanted to fight and Touma's words wouldn't change that. "Then maybe it's time I became the villain to get you motivated." Thor stared right at Touma, who was turning and pushing Index along. "What about your friend… Itsuwa?"
"Itsuwa?!" Index called out confused. "She's not here." Touma, however, froze and turned slowly to face Thor.
"What did you do?" Touma asked in a low tone.
"She actually confronted me right after you separated," Thor explained. "When I told her I was looking for you, she got most upset."
"What did you do?" Touma repeated, a little more force in his voice.
"I do hate unnecessary bloodshed," Thor continued. "I offered her the option of moving out of my way, but she refused." He eyed Touma's expression of fear and anger. "Don't worry, she's alive, for now."
"For now?!"
"She's pretty badly injured," Thor said. "And if you won't fight me, I might have to take out my frustration on her." He grinned. "Is that a good enough reason for us to fight? If you can satisfy me, I'll tell you where she is."
He started walking forward and his face become serious.
"Refuse… and she dies."
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.