Painted Prison Chronicles

by Sparity Ikari

When Kamijou Touma and Gokusai sisters reunite after a long while, things certainly go crazy for all of them when they found themselves living together through random twists of fate. In their daily life, Touma, Amazora, Kaibi, and Rikuri will learn about each other, with their light, darkness, and pasts revealed. Among the misfortune, comedy, and romance, their bonds blossom anew!

26. Chapter 26

PAINTED PRISON CHRONICLES

CHAPTER 26

RIKURI III

I. AM. BACK! I know that it took a long time, and believe me, it was hard to be cut off from writing for you for such a long time, but it was a very challenging month, extremely so. In fact, I still have exams next week, but after that, my freedom will drastically increase, so the writing should go back to normal. I realize consistent publishing is important for readers. I think the only saving grace here is the fact that I was trying to have a pace before, so occasional forced hiatus like this one will be alright.

Three pieces of information: one worse and two good. As you can see, I titled this chapter Rikuri III, despite the promise of already getting into Mitsuari Arc. The truth is, I thought about it and decided to delay the beginning of Mitsuari Arc by two chapters, the reason for it being that this is the very important part of the story and I thought I will not do it justice, writing in the period of such a great real-life stress. This isn't the case for contents of chapters 26 and 27, which were drafted earlier and require less preparation time now. This is the slightly worse news for anyone who hoped it will begin immidiately, and I apologize that it will possibly begin in chapter 28. But, the good information. This chapter is also important, and it's more logical to put it before Mitsuari Arc then after it. It also has certain important moments, for Rikuri and not only, so I hope you will be satisfied with this as well. The second important notice, is that the next chapter will serve as a sort of preludium to the Mitsuari Arc with Kumokawa getting a prominent fragment of it, alongside certain surprise characters. I think it may be one of the more intriguing non-sister chapters of the story, so it should be something to look forward too. Chapter 27 will be slightly shorter than a regular chapter and while I still have challenging times ahead of me, I definitely should be able to write it much faster than this one. I will try to do my best to deliver Kumokawa & other goodness.

As always, I am grateful for all of your support, and for your patience with this release.

Small Q&A

TheDarkPublisher: I think you'll find Kumokawa spotlight rewarding. Besides prelude
(next chapter) she is bound to get the screentime in the proper Mitsuari Arc.

FingFangFoom100: I also waited to do Saten justice. And I am really glad you like Tenma, I think he is one of my favourite original characters. Plot twist with Seike was obligatory, even if it was a one time gag.

5had0wHand: There is someone else who will show up in the next chapter, before we get into Mitsuari Arc, but it will remain surprise for now.

Guest: Thank you for reviewing Rikuri I. It was quite some time since that chapter got published and it is nostalgic in a nice way to read a review of it. I was told the story improved since then and I hope you get the same feeling. That Rikuri date was one of the cuttest moments, but to be honest, Rikuri has quite a lot of cute stuff in this fic, as I wanted to add something romantically innocent to her aside from her being an absolute bombshell.

Without further delay, let's begin!

Gokusai Rikuri woke up early, which was most unusual.

Normally she would slumber until someone else woke her up, but that obviously wasn't the case now. Kaibi was still breathing lightly in her sleep, and Amazora was rolling around in her bed, occasionally scratching her still developing chest for some particular reason.

In truth, Rikuri was pretty restless. Of course, she knew the reason for that. It would be strange if she wasn't surprised.

It was almost that day. And of course, if she was to make a move, it would be by then.

Rikuri slowly exhaled and lifted herself up on her bed.

Everyone in the apartment were still asleep. That just showed how unusual this situation was.

Rikuri, as usual after awakening, stretched her sensual body in the rays of the morning sun. She smiled slightly, remembering times when Touma accidentally walked on her doing that. As this particular wake up ritual accentuated certain parts of her already mature body, there was no other option but for misfortunate boy to turn into blushing mess.

Speaking of Touma... Rikuri couldn't help but giggle to herself as she recalled few times when she watched him sleep in peace of recent days. Of course, his misfortune was never truly gone, but Rikuri saw with immeasurable pleasure that in his sleep he definitely could relax much more, looking certainlymore peaceful than at the beginning of their relationship.

Not that she was actively watching him sleep that often.

Alright, maybe more often than not, but... Rikuri found Touma absolutely precious when he was relaxed. And she was more than happy that she could contribute to this happiness.

She glanced at the photograph on the table. Besides the one depicting her and her sisters together with Touma, there were also more broad ones, depicting their most frequent guests, like Maidono, Hasako, and the neighbouring Hanatsuyu twins, as well as Index and Othinus.

Since they began living together, Rikuri could confidently say that she was happier than ever. Even though they were trying to cope and somehow adapt to society after the de facto collapse of Academy City's Dark Side, it was Kamijou's presence that finally made them able to function as a relatively normal family. Rikuri flourished, met someone special, could enjoy moments of tranquility while still pursuing her interest and not being forced to play someone she was not. She worked alongside one of the younger dark siders she truly admired, and made new friend in form of the girl from Kamijou's school who, although nearly 3 years younger, was great to talk with and had some interesting ideas for the future business.

Rikuri could not easily say how grateful she was for Touma's presence in her life. She owed this time of peace, among many other things, to him and his efforts. She was still in process of thinking about his gift, about a way to properly thank him.

But she needed to act in some way, soon, otherwise she felt that the feelings could as well overflow her entire being. She owed that both to Kamijou, and herself. Those feelings were distracting, in a good way, as she experienced giddiness, warmth, and so many feelings while awake, and even greater spectrum of very vivid dreams while asleep.

But...

Rikuri took shaky inhale, returning to her bedroom and taking the phone from the nightstand. It suddenly felt as if it was weighing much more than in reality.

'I can't run forever, especially if I was already tracked down. But there is much, so much for me to do here... with my sisters, with my friends... with Touma..."

She felt her vision get a bit blurry and she dried her cheeks. But just as she tried to collect herself, a message on her phone made her eyes go wide and face pale.

'No... she's... no, that's not possible! But if it is... doesn't mean that I have to...'

She slumped onto the chair, with heavy thoughts in mind and even heavier feelings in her heart.

(FEW DAYS LATER)

"You have to drink your milk and take the vitamins later on!"

"Nooooooooooo! No, no, no, noooooo!"

"Amazora! You can't just neglect that... get back here!"

Touma walked straight into the occasional morning mess of their familial breakfast.

Kaibi lost her temper, determined to supply healthy elements of diet to her younger sibling, which resulted in the two girls chasing each other around the table. Meanwhile, Maidono was smirking in a mischievous manner, looking at Hasako and Index.

"Touma, check this out! Funniest thing you'll see all day!" she giggled, motioning with her index finger.

"Hoshimi-san, that's not funny at AAAAAAAAHHH?!"

Hasako's protest got cut off, as the hair dryer on the long cable 'came to life' and lifted itself of the floor with whirring and buzzing noise.

Both Hasako and Index practically jumped into each other's arms in fright.

"IYAAAAAAAAAAH! Touma! This growling fan wants to eat our hair!"

"K-Kamijou-sama! H-H-HEEEEEEELP!"

Touma sighed, watching the squealing girls getting chased by the telekinetically propelled hair dryer. Surprisingly, Index found quite the good friend in Hasako. Maybe it was since both of them were a little old-fashioned in a sense, and also because Hasako was a good listener to the nun, not judging strange (from science side perspective) phrases or terms she tended to use. So, two girls conversed with each other frequently when they met. They were similar in certain areas, well, except for the fact that Index was a voracious eater, and Hasako would always consume elegant and rational portions of food. But the other thing they shared was occasional technophobia, caused through the isolation from technology in magic side for Index, and unseen evolution of technology through time of her hibernation for Hasako. Although they fared well in most instances, sometimes it didn't take a lot to scare them, as the practical joker Maidono explored.

Touma looked around the kitchen. From time to time, they got prelude's to breakfast just like this one. Especially since they had frequent guests, often lured by the food or company. Their apartment was incredibly spacious, so it was not like they lacked actual physical space. But still, with more people around, the chance of misfortunate accidents proportionally increased, especially since one involved was Kamijou of all people.

It happened a little bit like domino effect.

Itsuki, who volunteered to prepare salad and drinks for breakfast, walked in with a cup of coffee, for either Kaibi or Maidono, who had the tendency to drink something stronger in the morning. But...

"Onee-chan, I don't wanna!"

"I've been holding back on forcing you to be consequent with this, so do not expect any mercy this time."

"Nego... negotiation! Let's make oysters with milk!"

"Please, don't make me lose faith in humanity's lack of aesthetics, this is positively disgusting!"

And so it happened that running Amazora bumped strongly into Itsuki.

"Aaaah?!"

Who spun with a grace of a ballerina, before falling to the floor...

Or rather almost doing so, because Touma managed to catch her before she collided with the ground.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

Itsuki blinked, finally noticing that he was holding her with one arm, slightly bent over her.

"Y-Yes... t-thanks to y-you..."

Inwardly, she was dying out of embarrassment. Why did he always make her act like this? She was a very good actress and was devoted to correct the mistake of their first meeting. She wanted for Touma to yield to her charm and worship the ground on which she stood, like all the other guys before.

Except, apparently, Touma was not just some other guy. For some reason, for each attempt to make him charmed, she was getting twice or thrice as flustered as he was supposed to be. This was putting salt onto her wounded pride even more...

But even still, she couldn't help but find the shivers coming from contact with his arm pleasurable. The fact that his face was so close, and her own reddened quite a bit, did not bother her as much as it did before.

"YAKKUN!"

That angry scream that caused both the boy and the girl to turn their heads, originated from Sakuragi Naruha. But what made her so angry?

20 seconds earlier or so, Itsuki's coffee was sent flying through the air.

Maidono, who perched on a couch as if trying to imitate a stretching cat, (as a matter of fact, she and Sphinx stretched next to each other from time to time during their times of laziness) noticed the flying drink.

"I got this!"

The cup froze in mid-air. However, the same could not be said about its caffeinated contents, that actually accelerated thanks to the sudden halt of their container, and travelled straight onto Naru's lower belly and crotch, still steaming and hot.

"YAKKUN!" the purple haired girl wailed in anger and pain.

But the cherry on top was still to come. As both Touma and Itsuki looked at her, the wet paper partially fell down, with Naru flashing her panties in front of Touma.

Soon, the chase around the table grew to 4 people, as well as Sphinx chasing Othinus, who decided it was a wonderful idea to follow the chase along.

"HEEEEELP!"

Plus one very irritated nun, already recovered from hair dryer prank, who was trying to get through.

"TOUMA! There is a Benny Hill chase blocking the fridge! AND I AM HUNGRY!"

"I don't know if I am more surprised with you knowing Benny Hill or the fact that you are proactively going to the fridge instead of dumping it on me!"

"Human, do something before I get eaten and she tries to eat the furniture! Which already happened before!"

Rikuri, yawning and with bed hair, and Hasako, with her own hair partially tied in a bun she usually wore to sleep, stared at this with dubious gazes. Finally, Hasako let out a roar that caused everyone to freeze in place. The first esper coughed slightly and spread her arms.

"Everyone, please calm down! Let's not make Touma-sama any more problems and enjoy our breakfast in peace. I will cook for you, so if you settle down, it would be delightful"

The girl gazed at Touma and smiled shyly

"Do you want something specific to eat?"

"You..."

Touma too looked at Hasako, with huge amount gratitude. It was amazing just how much could she be firm and consequent while retaining her good-natured self. She was gentle, both in her elegant manners and type of beauty, but always held this pressure of immense authority and self-discipline... possibly a remnant of her former life.

"Ekhm... Touma..." Maidono began to snicker from the sofa." I don't think she is on the menu. Not in that time of the day, at least."

Touma blinked, looking at slightly flushed Hasako, and realized that in answer to her question he answered 'You' before spacing out in contemplation.

"I-I meant... you don't have to do it, I will take care of the breakfast!"

"Maybe we shall all do it together then?" Rikuri offered, coming over and pulling Touma into the hug. "And maybe we can go for ice cream together later on? What do you think, everyone? My treat!"

Although Amazora, Maidono, and Naru seemed very extatic for sweet treats, Kaibi, who usually had a particularly potent sweet tooth, didn't seem so enthusiastic. Instead, she glanced at Touma, who nodded back to her.

(2 HOURS LATER)

"So, I assume that you are noticed that something is clearly off with Rikuri nee-san" Kaibi sighed as she and Touma sat side by side of the pool complex in their apartment building, while observing Maidono and Hasako trying to teach Amazora how to swim properly.

Beginning Child encouraged the small girl to reach her, while Maidono swam nearby, pointing various technical details necessary for Amazora's movements to actually propel her.

"Yes... although I can't put my finger on what is actually going on" Touma nodded. Kaibi put a finger on her cheek.

"Well, for one thing, she is never that selfless. She often is helping out, but she is trying a little bit too hard to give us a good time. She spoils Amazora even more than before, goes to your bed even more often than ever, and talks with me about things that clearly don't really interest her. Not to mention being amazingly calm and kind towards our neighbours. She also started coming for you to school-"

"Yeah, I get it. Something changed. The question is... what? And if something changed in regards to Rikuri-san, what caused that change?"

"What is bothering her, huh..." Kaibi muttered, before shifting her gaze slightly" While I would like to believe that it's some emotional turmoil of feelings similar to what I've been experiencing-"

Touma followed her gaze and shivered. To be honest, he forgot they were holding hands.

To understand this, one had to understand the aftermath of Kaibi's confession after their kiss in Seventh Mist mall. Or rather, prelude which this aftermath inaugurated.

After Kaibi's confession, Touma was absolutely shocked. Kaibi, seeing that, asserted with a smile that while she expected him to give her the answer eventually, he could think it through and take his time with it.

'After all, I know you have a lot on your head and I dropped it on you quite suddenly' she smiled charmingly as they sat by the carbon fountain' So please, tell me when you'll be ready. I hate half-assed answers, so this is for my own comfort. For now, I wanted you to listen to my feelings. And when you sort out yours, please tell me.'

Touma was, in fact, quite lost. Even though in recent times he made some progress in getting around feelings that many, many girl around him had for his person, having a girl actually confess to him was definitely something he was not accustomed to (the only other girl who confessed to him like that was Index, and that was a whole another case of post-amnesia awkwardness to sort out).

That being said, it was not like he didn't like it. On the contrary, he appreciated those feelings. How could he not? The very idea that someone would want to be with someone as misfortunate as him almost brought tears to his eyes.

Even if he wanted to respond to her now, it was Kaibi's own request for him to think this through for some time. Although she was denial-prone and often stubborn, she had great ability to learn and over time, she became increasingly mature. This greater patience and maturity, especially in romantic life, was something that Touma found, well, quite attractive as a trait of character.

All of that being said, his response being put on hold for a period of transition didn't stop Kaibi from trying to make him inclined to fall in love with her. Her demeanour, possibly through the ridding of the burden of unspoken feelings, became much more light and flirty, in a way that she often sought the opportunity to be close to him, or held his hand. She even occasionally woke him with a kiss on the cheek after returning from her morning run. Kaibi did not flaunt this newfound closeness but when they were alone, this was a completely different story. It was, in a way, being more than friends, and less than a proper couple.

Going back to the present situation, Touma listened as the girl finished her sentence.

"... but something tells me there is more to it than that"

"Do you have any ideas?"

"I know for a fact that if she tries so hard and lapses into such servitude, she must either feel guilty of something or feel that she must make up for something, probably what. The only question is, what is the thing that make her clean, buy others food, walk them to schools... she is starting to neglect herself through this and...I am honestly starting to worry."

"Did this happen in the past?"

Kaibi squeezed his hand with a slight grimace on her face.

"Yes, but... it always resolved itself rather quickly. Ultimately, she always told us what was bothering her. Right now, as I see it, I don't think she will disclose what is bothering her unless she is pressured."

Touma thought for a moment, but in truth, he too was worried over Rikuri feeling bad and hiding it. Finally, he let out a sigh of his own, and spoke:

"Tiptoeing around the issue will get us nowhere. Maybe we should talk to her after the birthday party. It would be funny if she was just worried about getting older"

Kaibi chuckled at that.

"I don't think we would have that luck. Especially with you around."

"Oi!"

"But it's a good idea to give it a try"

Kaibi told Touma nearly a week ago that Rikuri's birthday was coming up. Since then, they planned a surprise party for her. From the present's point of view, Rikuri's birthday was due in two days. They were all planning to make it together, with Maidono, Hasako, Hanatsuyu twins, as well as Fukiyose Seiri who apparently became Rikuri's best friends behind Touma's back. They got along through their shared appreciation for health products and Touma was really glad for his older flatmate. Nevertheless, everyone was busy trying to prepare Rikuri the best party in the world.

"Onii-chan, onee-chan, are you talking about part- bhagbaragh?!"

Amazora, somehow overhearing their conversation perked her head up, but that was enough to break her coordination, sending her straight to the bottom of the pool.

Maidono facepalmed and motioned upwards with her index finger.

A large sphere of water, containing Amazora, emerged from the pool, travelled to the floor beyond the water, and then lost its shape, leaving the blond girl laying down and coughing.

Hasako, wringing her long branched ponytail from the excess water, came to Amazora's side, and few seconds later, Maidono was there as well.

"I was so close!"

"There, there" Hasako patted her head" You're doing an excellent job."

"Really?! Owie!"

Maidono chopped her head with her hand.

"Do not lose focus, idiot! You are never going to stay afloat if you react like someone high on sugar and react to every single thing outside of the pool!"

"Y-Yes, sensei!"

Touma and Kaibi got up, while eyeing the teaching attempt.

"Those two... they are really like yin and yang, huh?"

"Yeah, carrot and the stick"

"Kaibi-san..."

"I told you. From now on, you can drop the honoriphic"

"K-Kaibi... I think that for now we should focus on preparing a party. Then we will talk to Rikuri and ask if something is bothering her"

Kaibi smiled at him and nudged him slightly

"You know... if I am being honest, it's nice to have you here in a situation like this"

"In regards to Rikuri's behaviour?"

"Well, that too. You are very welcome in my life for..." she touched her lips with her painted nail, her cheeks adapting slightly pink hue" variety of reasons... but now, I am glad I have someone reliable I can talk with about various issues as well. I love Amazora, she is extremely important to me, but she is not exactly the perfect fit for those type of talks."

With that said, they walked to the other trio.

"Me and Touma will race now. What do you think you plan on doing?"

"Maybe we can do snowball fight?" Amazora suggested.

"I am in!" Maidono's eyes lit up.

"Really? We have summer..."

"Hasacchi, can you do arctic for us?"

"Yes, but only when Amazora-chan dries up. We wouldn't want her to catch a cold just before her sister's birthday". Touma-sama, Kaibi-san, please go ahead and swim on. We will be back in a bit"

So, Kaibi and Touma swam together for a while, before the other girls returned, equipped with warm coats. Hasako had her necklace containing dozen preserved DNA samples required for the usage of her power.

"Ready?"

With a roar, the room became covered in ice and snow.

Soon, Hasako and Amazora went against out to battle against Maidono. This asymmetric arrangement was in part influenced by the fact that Maidono had no equal when it came to remotely sending barrages of snowy projectiles with her power.

Kaibi watched them with amused smile, thinking if she could ask Hasako to switch to warmer environment so that she could sunbath, before realizing that Touma was no longer by her side, or even at the pool.

(LATER...)

Rikuri took a sip of tea and sighed. Her working glasses slipped down her nose and she readjusted them without much of a thought.

She went for a walk. Watched TV. Worked to improve her drones. Done one of her assignments. She also worked with chemicals, which was generally her best way to relax.

Nothing could quell her uneasiness and she felt tired. Tired of feeling worried.

But she couldn't help it. Not when she was alone. After all, tomorrow...

She shook her head and briefly thought about injecting some self-synthesized oxitocine into herself, before rejecting the thought.

No amount of preparation could truly be enough in the prospect of that meeting. And its implications caused Rikuri's heart to yearn, to savour as much of life with her friends and family as possible. To show them her gratitude for being here. To...

'...show them she was still here. Show them that even if she disappeared, she would still care'

"Rikuri..."

She gasped, quickly turning around, to find Touma in the entrance of the living room. She then graced him with a small smile.

"Oh, hello!" she waved weakly, before turning off her laptop, taking off the glassess and strolling towards Touma "I did not see you come in. Did you have fun at the pool? I am sorry that I couldn't come, but I have many projects to work at recently..."

"Right... don't overwork yourself..."

"O-Of course!"

"Are you hungry?"

"No! In fact, I can make something for you if you want..."

Touma took a deep breath and steadied himself. He knew that he and Kaibi decided it already, and it would be helpful if she was here, but he wanted to know what was bothering the eldest sister without resorting to the use of Measure Heart.

He mentally apologized to Kaibi and asked the important question.

"Rikuri... I just want to ask... is everything okay?"

Rikuri's smile didn't change, but her body stiffened at that question.

"W-Why wouldn't I be okay? There is no reason for me to be upset..."

"Yeah... no reason that I would know of..." Touma slowly said" but... you've been acting strange. I don't mean it in a bad way, just... you avoid being with others, but when you are with them you shower them with attention. You are quite pale... also, your eyes are red. Were you cry-"

"Oh, that?" Rikuri shifted awkwardly, and then make few dramatic coughs while rubbing her nose." That's... that's just from the allergies and dust in the air. They are positively dreadful... My nose and eyes are so itchy, no wonder I don't look presentable. "

She quickly turn around. This was of course an excuse to hide her face, with trembling lips and slightly misty eyes.

She hated herself for this deception. For the long time, she debated if she wanted to confine this situation. But... she just couldn't make herself to do it.

Then, she felt Touma put his hand on her shoulder.

"Rikuri-san, you told us multiple times that you are both poison and allergen resistant because you condition yourself. And as much as complains about the forced social service, Naru-san does a good job, so everything is spotless. I know that your eyes aren't red from allergy or anything like this. You've been crying. Can you-"

Rikuri moved away, Touma's hand falling down, and once again smiled awkwardly at him.

"I...I think I will go take a nap. I suddenly felt really tired. E-Excuse me!"

"Rikuri, wait-"

Touma extended his hand, but Rikuri already walked away, leaving him in an uneasy mood.

(20 MINUTES LATER)

Touma went out to the city, deep in thought and with heavy heart.

He actually spoke with Othinus and Index regarding his worry for Rikuri, with both of them advising him just to speak with her directly. However, now he was sure that he acted prematurely. It would be better if he waited.

No matter what he tried to do, Rikuri's unusual situation occupied his thoughts.

Was she angry? Scared? Upset? Confused? All of the above? Could he actually do something about it or was it beyond his control?

How long was Rikuri off like this? A week, maybe?

As he pondered on those things, certain scene in the corner of his vision.

"You dare bother the marvellous Kongou Mitsuko? The nerve, be gone from here this instant!"

"Come on, just go have some fun with us. It will be cool, right guys?"

It was a familiar Aero Hand being hit on by some guys, who were practically glued to her.

'Ah, déjà vu' Touma deadpanned at the sight.

He frowned. He did not remember it, but he was sure that he saved a Tokiwadai girl from being hit on. Or rather, he saved the guys from the girl. Even without criminals, some things just didn't change in the city that was, for better or for worse, filled with teenagers.

Oh well, Kongou was capable, but knowing Tokiwadai ladies' temper, it could easily turn into esper power blasting left and right. Besides, those guys were not really criminals, or at least they didn't look like that. They seemed to be normal students, who just got a little too interested in a pretty girl.

Knowing that he could not just leave, Touma took a step forward. In that moment, Kongou noticed him and her face brightened.

"Excuse me, this is my girlfriend-"

"Excuse me, this is my boyfriend-"

They both exclaimed before pausing, staring at each other. Both of their faces went slightly red.

The thing that made Touma flustered wasn't what he said. He used that trick multiple times while saving harassed girls, sometimes with failure, occasionally with success. However, this was the first time when someone not only got along with it, but apparently got similar idea from her end.

The guys who hit on Kongou were equally confused, and looked at both Touma and Kongou with puzzled faces.

The airline heiress was the first to move, reaching Touma and grabbing his hand with a smile.

"Darling! You took so long. I was just explaining those gentlemen that I should be going, so it's a wonderful thing that you came around."

"R-Right... y-yes, we should be off-"

They walked a few steps, before one of the boys spoke

"Wait! We heard a guy who plays some hero around here and pretends to be boyfriend of various girls. You're trying to steal her from us! Stop butting in, a cutie like that doesn't belong to some boring rando like you!"

Touma felt Kongou's hand clench tighter and saw her gaze get colder.

But before the girl could enact anything she had in mind, Touma, praying to gods for his actions to yield good results, suddenly swooped her out of her feet and into the princess carry. He straightened his back, and looked at the other guys with confidence and power in his eyes.

"She is not an object that can be stolen! And even if she didn't have a problem with being described like that..."

He slightly pressed the Kongou's body to his chest, adding the finishing touch to the act.

"She is mine! So I would suggest you to back off!"

They stared at each other before one of the other students clicked his tongue.

"Tch, damn it! Let's go!"

Touma did not let himself relax until they got out of their sights... and then his head slumped lower.

'I want to die! I truly want to crawl under rock and die! What the hell was that scene? Also, I acted possessive right after asserting that she should not be objectified. I am just the worse. I bet Kongou-san is...'

As he looked down on the girl, he found her staring at him with uncharacteristically meek and red face.

'Oh no, I totally hurt her pride. How do I apologize for that? I literally pressed her against me!'

However, what Touma did not realize...

'Oh my... I do feel his muscles! No one outside the family ever held me that close before. And I know that it was supposed to be acting, but...'

'I bet she hated that macho act...'

'That possessiveness was really... really... that almost felt like a proposal of sorts... no, no, Mitsuko, calm down, acting, acting... but that was so...so...'

Touma, on his feet, and Kongou, in his arms, kept looking into each other's eyes until the girl coughed slightly.

"Darling, you should probably put me down now. People are staring" she muttered with a slight hint of disappointment.

And indeed, quite a few pedestrians glanced at them strangely.

Touma quickly got Kongou back to the ground. The girl dusted herself off, as Touma spoke hurriedly.

"Kongou-san... I really apologize for-"

"No, no!" she smiled reassuringly" Do not apologize for such valorous behaviour, I take no offense. Though, there was no need for intervention, I could have easily put those uncouth ruffians in their place!"

"Yeah, I know. Which is exactly why I granted them some mercy"

Kongou giggled at that.

"Truly, such a strange gentleman you are, darling. Well, as long as you know my wondrous strength, that's alright" she smiled proudly, spreading her fan in front of her face and striking a pose.

Touma scratched his head

"I do know it. But... I heard that you've been the first victim in some accidents..."

"GEH?!" Kongou wobbled on her feet, as if she received an invisible blow to the side.

"... and were frequently hospitalized because of it"

"T-That was because I was overestimating my strength, even I can admit that much. I learned by now"

"Riiiight, hospital buddy..."

"H-Hush now!"

They began walking together, while still talking.

"What were you doing here anyway?"

"Oh, I was supposed to have a dress fitting for the fashion show next week, but unfortunately it was rescheduled to the evening. I headed back to the dorms, where those guys started to bother me. And you, darling?"

"I just... got for a walk to clear my head."

"Oh? Then you should have the honour to walk with Kongou Mitsuko. And of course, I will have the privilege to be with my darling as well"

"Oh, that's alright, I don't want to disturb you"

"Nonsense! I have free time anyway"

In 10 minutes of time, they moved to the river boulevard. It was getting really hot and Kongou actually used her fan for its intended purpose, her hair fringes waving slightly like mini-curtains along with the motions of the fan.

"Kongou-san..."

"Hmm?"

"There is something I've been curious about for a long time. When we first met, I didn't assume that we will get along. I mean, you are one of the richest girls in time, an ojou-sama from a good family, powerful esper with pride in your power. Meanwhile, I am poor, mundane guy, that's possibly the furthest from this rich world of yours as possible."

"Hmm? So? Darling, did you take me as someone who judges people solely based on the social standing"

"N-No! Not exactly! It's just... I expected that we wouldn't get along as much as we do. That I will make you mad at the first occasion and that would be it. Because of how different you are."

Kongou sighed, wiping off the sweat from her wide brow.

"I suppose you could get that feeling from me, couldn't you? Well, I can't deny that I was slightly confused on our sudden first meeting and surrounding matters. It is without a doubt that we have our differences, and we may not see eye to eye in every aspect. But darling... I am not so petty and shallow to not see how valorous your heart is, and how many qualities you bring around. There are many things I don't really understand about you... yet sometimes, it's those differences that make our randez-vous so interesting. Also... maybe we are not so different, you and I"

"Really?"

"I shall not be wrong, and I am almost sure that I saw it in your eyes. The look of care that I also try to convey to your close friends. How could I turn away from someone who looks at his friends with such an exalted care? I simply couldn't!"

"I noticed that before, but you are really focused on quality friendships and creating interpersonal connections. Is there some special reason behind it?"

Kongou looked at him with a sudden flash of coy shyness in her eyes. She looked rather dramatically to the both sides before whispering.

"You shall not spread this around, but... let this not shock you... even me, the great and beautiful Kongou Mitsuko... didn't always have the greatest luck with company"

"So you were..."

"Lonely? Well, I did have my household staff and family, but... I might have taken wrong approach when it came to peers my age. I wanted to dazzle them with my glamour, but I guess it had quite the opposite effect. So now, when I already know better, I want to cherish my friends with all of my heart and give them something that they would want as well"

She inspected Touma and shook her head.

"But enough about myself! Darling, this simply won't do! There is clearly something troubling you and I am insisting that you confide it with me."

"There isn't really-"

"Mmmmmmm!"

Touma sweatdropped, seeing pouting Kongou right in front of his face.

"A-Alright, but I would rather lie down for it."

He stepped onto the grassy hill of the riverbank and streatched on the green steepness.

"Come on, this is the best day for it, it's warm but not overly so"

"B-But..." Kongou hesitated, looking at the stretched out spiky-haired boy" I am a lady!"

"As far as I can tell, there should be no difference"

"B-But, ladies should roll in the grass!"

"Just try it!"

"Woah!"

Touma 'persuaded' Kongou into laying down by grabbing her hand and causing her to slump down on her butt, and then, on her back.

Although for the few moments the girl was wriggling around...

"Oh? This feels..."

The sun was gently warming up her skin, the grass was surprisingly nice, and the wind was just enough for relaxing atmosphere.

Touma smiled to next to a surprised Kongou.

"Pretty nice, huh?"

"Yes, yes it is... I suppose commoner customs do have some occasional merits. Now, shall you tell me what's on your heart?"

"Well, I guess you will keep asking. I didn't want to trouble you, but... the thing is..."

And so, Touma told Kongou about Rikuri's strange behaviour and his lack of knowledge regarding its cause.

"Hmm..." the raven haired ojou-sama pondered for a moment" This does look strange. You say you neither of your friends nor you did anything to offend her"

"I can't think of anything! Maybe she is upset because of her birthday? Girls are sensitive about age, right?"

"Maybe... but I doubt that's all it is to it. I can't tell you the reason behind it, but I think the idea of Gokusai-san was correct one. I know you worried, but you shouldn't approach her along. She might respond better if she is asked by all of the people she loves, not because she has a problem with you specifically, but because this problem may concern all of you, as a whole"

"You think so?"

"Like I am saying, I am only guessing. If you honestly approach her, it should make things easier."

"Are you speaking from experience?"

This caused Kongou to fidget slightly by his side

"W-Well...you see, I had the tendency to give a little... over-imaginative accounts of my endeavours to my friends..."

Touma gasped.

"You? Over the top? Get out of here!"

This earned him a small whack with a now closed fan.

"Ever since I met them, Wannai and Awatsuki-san were nothing but a faithful and magnificent company, most wonderful of friends. I boasted about myself to them and they not only believed me, but praised me on their own. It felt so good after long time of being on my own... I can honestly say that I got addicted to it. But ever since spending time with Misaka-san, and the curry flop...

"Curry flop?"

"Ekhm... I realized that I started to feel bad about this deception. After some time, I managed to face them about it. I was so worried that they will stop seeing me as a friend... but they still managed to support me, even as a version of myself that was less accomplished."

"Speaking of Wannai and Awatsuki-san, how are they?"

"Oh, they are doing very well. They're very, very eager to meet you again too. Wannai-san rose in popularity because her power shot up in a very short amount of time. She just keeps recalling your effort in helping her. And Awatsuki-san actually does plans for spending time with you when you reunite. While I am really happy that they are in such good moods, they do get rather giggly and red... darling..."

"Y-Yeah?..."

"The fact that you conducted some special alone-time training with Wannai-san to boost her power and confidence... and the fact that Awatsuki-san returned to Tokiwadai completely sticky and wet after walk with you..."

"T-There wasn't anything weird involved! Wannai-san was technically trained by my colleague, and Awatsuki-san fell into the emergency water basin!"

"Oh, that so... thank you, they never told me details..."

Kongou said so, but inwardly, she breathed the sigh of relief.

Even though she wished Wannai and Awatsuki luck with their relationships, she still desired to be the first to have some kind of alone-time experience with Touma of more intimate nature.

The sun seemed even warmer and the girl unwillingly yawned.

"Ah... and how was our present? Did you like it?"

Touma blushed slightly and muttered

"W-Well, yeah... it's certainly something specific, but... what guy wouldn't be happy? Having the photobook of three beautiful girls, who happen to be your friends, and with such heartfelt message..."

"O-Oh...I see, that's splendid..." Kongou replied, feeling her heart flutter a little.

She was used to compliments and praised, but for some reason, she felt tangible rise in happiness and glee when it was coming from the boy in front of her. It prompted her to act in a way that would get her more praise.

They laid in silence, in the rays of the sun and breeze from over the river, as Kongou soon found herself unwillingly fantasizing about things rather unbecoming of well-mannered young lady, as she was enveloped by tranquil warmth.

(...)

Kongou found her face pressed into something warm. It smelled nice and comforting among sharp scent of grass.

She opened her eyes to find herself with the cheek squished onto Touma's arm.

Wait... she opened her eyes?...

Kongou jumped backwards, almost rolling over in the grass.

"I... I... fell asleep?!"

"Umm, yes, though I don't blame you, this weather can surely make you sleepy."

"F-For... how long?"

"Ten minutes... maybe fifteen"

"I didn't do anything weird, right?"

"No, you just rolled over and pressed yourself to my arm."

"H-How utterly inelegant! You should just wake me up."

"But you looked so relaxed and peaceful that I just couldn't do it. You looked like you were happy"

The Aero Hand user found no words to that.

"Thank you for your consideration. Well, I suppose I was here quite some time."

Suddenly, she paused and looked at Touma.

"Darling, before we part ways, can I ask you for a favour"

Touma shrugged.

"Sure, fire away"

Kongou brushed her hair with her hand, her cheeks going slightly pink.

"Could you check it?"

"Ch-Check it?"

"I don't mind time on the grass, but there could be some nasty bugs there. Not to mention ticks. They spread many dangerous diseases and it's hard to check your own head and hair. So, please check them out for me."

"A-Are you sure?" Touma's asked in surprise at the request.

"M-Mhm!" Kongou tried to not give away the mixture of uncertainty and strange excitement" I trust you not to do anything strange. I use finest shampoos, so you should be greatful for being able to touch it."

And so, Touma, bracing through the unusual task, took Kongou's hair in his hand.

If he was already at it, he made sure to be throughout with the search. As ticks would be black against black hair, he made an effort to examine the hair with care. After some time, he touched skin on Kongou's head and the girl shivered slightly

"I-Is everything ok?" he asked, backing up a bit.

"Yes...yes, alright. Do continue" the girl answered, quickly composing herself.

Although it was not intentional, Touma's search ended up being similar to the scalp massage, and Kongou couldn't help but feel immensely relaxed and pleased because of it. To distract herself from once again drifting into sleep or into something even more undignified, she asked

"When you spoke of your worries regarding Rikuri-san, a lot of it sounded like you blaming yourself... did you blame yourself for her mood?"

Touma was quite for a moment,

"Kongou-san... there is something that cannot quite be explained rationally, but I am a really, really unlucky guy. More so, when I was little, people believed that I actually caused them misfortune. I was called God of Pestilence. And so, as years went by, I couldn't help but... be wary. I didn't think it would really work out"

Kongou actually turned her head at this, with her hair still in Touma's hands.

"What... What do you mean?"

Touma felt a little bit of guilt at the sadness that suddenly appeared in her eyes.

"I never truly believed that people stay with me. I mean, everyone prefers to be with someone who doesn't have the potential to turn their life into a nightmare. Sooner or later, everyone might just-"

"THAT CAN'T BE TRUE!" Kongou exclaimed, in a tone of self-righteous anger" Those who would abandon you are not your true friends! As someone who tries to focus on making friends, I can only look at you in envy. I still don't know much about those around you, but I do know that you have a lot of people who genuinely care. If in such a short time you touched hearts of myself and my friends, I can't imagine the hearts of people who knew you longer. As someone who does care and who won't turn away, I will not allow you to think badly about yourself like this. There are many things I don't understand about your situation, but I am still standing my ground on this"

"But-"

"No buts! Let me assure you, Kongou Mitsuko associates herself only with life's finest. That also includes you!"

Touma stared at her, before sighing and chucking a little bit.

"You are right, I got negative there. Maybe it's true, I am just worried over Rikuri and my frustration got me overthinking things."

"That's right. No time like the present for genuine talk with her. Worrying about what might be won't get you anywhere"

"Hah, that's true. Also, it's so strange to even consider the future sometimes. With my luck, I sometimes thought that I would be long dead..."

"That's quite dark, you know..."

Touma laughed and then dropped a sentence that was everything but expected

"But it's actually funny! Imagine us as adults. Oh, or as parents!"

Kongou made a loud noise, shooting forward with red face, practically folding herself as she suddenly felt as if punched to the gut

'W-W-What?! What does that have to do with anything?!' she thought, looking at the boy 'Rationally, I know that he didn't mean being parents together, but... but still... this is bad for my heart!'

"A-Are you alright?" Touma commented without missing a beat. .

"Y-Yes!" Kongou said, fake-coughing a few times. She would die of shame if she admitted that she essentially chocked on air.

After a few minutes, they were ready to part ways.

"Thanks for listening to me. Now, I feel much more confident and know what I am about to do" Touma smiled at Kongou.

"That's good to hear. I wish you luck."

"Really? That's like wishing darkness to be bright"

"Hmm... that reminds me. You not only checked my hair, you even tidied it up and brushed it properly. You need a reward"

"I really don't need-"

"Darling, you should not reject lady's offer like this. Now, close your eyes"

"Huh? Why?"

"Just close them"

As Touma closed his eyes, Kongou took a deep breath, took a step forward and planted a kiss on his cheek. She allowed her lips to linger there for a few seconds before separating and smiling at the flabbergasted boy.

"Hmm... you keep saying that your misfortune will keep people from staying... but I for once do have abundant fortune. In more sense than just one. So if you feel at loss with your bad luck, you shalt not fret, because I am more than willing to share mine with you. T-There, see you around!"

And with that she turned around and walked away, waving her hand. Although she tried to look dignified, not looking back was rather purposeful, since her face was still rather red. She had the opportunity to go for the lips, but...

'It's all the matter of pace. Let him fall in love piece by piece. It's a strategy of natural victory'

Touma snapped back to reality after a moment and tried to collect his thoughts.

"Wow, ehm... right, I know what I must do now."

(1 HOUR LATER)

"What is it, boy? You seem rather surprised, if I may say so myself"

Oriana Thomson winked at Touma who gave her a rather sheepish look

"I am fine, I'm just... surprised that you answered my summons that quick."

"But of course. We are well acquainted by now... although there is still much to be desired"

Touma jumped slightly as magical courier's foot nudged his own leg, which earned a small smile from a gorgeous blond.

"You happened to forget that we exchanged numbers, didn't you?"

"K-Kind of... Kaibi is going to kill me for this... what I meant earlier, she tried to locate you for days now, but you never allowed her to find you"

"Of course I didn't. I wouldn't be a good messanger if I allowed just any people to find me. "

"The thing is... she is not just any people"

"Oh? Colour me intrigued" Oriana rested her head on her hand as she glanced at Touma" Then, who is she to seek the attention from dear old me? I was a bit disappointed that it wasn't you who sought me"

"D-Don't get me wrong, I wanted to see you as well!"

"I know, I am just messing with you. Truth be told, I wanted to speak with you as well."

"Really?"

"Yes" Oriana sighed and looked at him with more serious gaze" I thought about it for a while and I came to a conclusion that I owe my relatively stable situation of life in recent times to you."

Touma wanted to speak, but Oriana extended her arm across the small table and put a finger on his lips.

"Let me finish. When I became a magical courier, when I left the church... my reason for this change in myself wasn't to become a proper mercenary. I maintained my freelancing policy at all times, but it was not through the search of personal gain. I wanted to align with someone who would bring about the benefit of people through his actions. That's why I wanted to stay neutral. But I betrayed that principal during the time we first met and got too consumed in my task to notice I could bring harm to those I wanted to bless. You alone reminded me of those things and woke me up to who I wanted to be. More so, you are the one who embody the very actions I wanted to align with. Kamijou Touma, you have my thanks for battling me and reminding me of what's important in my life."

"Oh... there is no need for thanks..."

"I insist that there is. And that's why I thought that it's a pity that we don't know each other better. That's why I propose something. I want to thank you, yet I suppose that I also can count on a favour for agreeing to meet this Kaibi-san. So, let's play genies."

"Genies?"

"Yes. Each of us will get three wishes for other to fulfil."

"Do I have a right to refuse?"

"Oh, don't be so pessimistic. I assure you, we will both benefit from those requests. Besides, think about positives. You have a beautiful lady at your disposal. Just what can you do with it~"

"Oriana-san, don't tease me!"

"Am I teasing you now, I wonder?~... well, since I just told that to you and I want you to take time in thinking about it, I will take the liberty of announcing my first wish. Boy... no, Kamijou..."

She smiled coyly at him and declared:

"I wish you to go on a date with me"

Touma, who was in process of lifting a can with a drink, froze and small stream of carbonated beverage started to trickle down from the tilted can.

"W-What did you say?"

"We shall get to know each other better and I think it's an excellent way to relax. I know how your life gets and believe me, my job is stressful at times as well."

"B-But... do you even imagine... me and you on a date..."

"Oh, I do imagine it. Quite vividly in fact. Don't worry, I will plan it, but I won't make you do anything you're uncomfortable with. That being said though..." Oriana licked her lips ever so slightly" I am not against testing just how far your comfort zone streatches, so take that into account"

"Is that really alright?"

To his surprise, a faint blush appeared on Oriana's cheeks.

"I think it is quite normal for a girl to go out with someone who managed to impress her. Unless of course... you don't want to?" the voluptuous girl asked, her face saddening.

Touma once heard that there was an experiment against free will that proved physical actions were taken by the body seconds before the will to perform them appeared in consciousness. Now similar phenomenon occured, with him shaking his head so fervently that it was a wonder that it didn't come off.

"Wonderful. You take your time with your wish... not too long though, as I am eager to hear your ideas... oh, it appears your friends are here"

And indeed, Kaibi and Amazora entered small caffe Touma and Oriana were stitting in.

Amazora actually ran forward with a smile, ready to greet them.

"Onii-chan! Riku-ne..."

"Sorry, little one, but I am not her" Oriana said, turning around.

The look of overdramatic confusion on Amazora's face was utterly comical, combined with the fact that she tripped and fell front in her shock.

"Huuuuuuuuuh?! But you look just like my nee-chan!"

"So I was told" Oriana shrugged, before looking at Kaibi" I assume you are the one who wanted to meet with me"

"Yes, I am. Touma..." Kaibi looked at Touma with a look of surprise" You got her here so quick."

"Well, we are acquainted and-"

"TOO QUICK. I know by now you have a particular effect on the girls, but is there something else you want to tell me?"

"Ehm... I kind of..."

"Yes?"

"Forgot that... I had Oriana-san's... number..."

"Oh, I see, I see..." Kaibi smiled sweetly, her hand reaching to the nearby table...

(5 MINUTES LATER)

Touma sighed, his head pulsing with pain. Before everyone settled down, Kaibi chased him and managed to whack him on a head over a dozen times with an old-school menu in hard cover from one of the tables for making her waste a couple days of futile search. It was nothing concussion worthy, but it still made his head hurt a bit.

Amazora proudly claimed a spot on his legs. Touma absentmindedly ruffled her hair, the ritual that had a calming effect on both of them, as they both watched Kaibi explained the situation to Oriana.

"And there you have it. Well, I just wanted to tell you my side of the story. We suspect that your mother may be our aunt, and thus, it would make you our older cousin. Do you confirm it?"

Oriana listened intently, her face showing various degree of surprise and amusement, before shrugging and smiling.

"Everything seems true, at least from my perspective and as far as I can contribute to the information. I didn't have much details on mother's side of the family. I knew there was some discord and I briefly remember some funeral, the one you mentioned too possibly, but besides that, there is nothing.

"I remember now, I know for a fact that I saw you there"

"Well, I didn't recognize that girl from back then in you. Possibly because you had a different hair colour. Regardless, mother never talked much about her own past. When I was little, I didn't ask, and when I got to the age when I was curious enough... she was already gone. Father was not much of help either. All I knew that her family was rich and she was estranged. State of my knowledge didn't really change through years. But listening to your side of the story, it actually allows me to fill a lot of gaps in a sensible way."

"Does this mean..."

"Well, until something disproves it, I think it is safe to assume that it is true. It means that we are... oh? W-What are you doing? It tickles a bit..."

Amazora, in a very quick fashion, jumped off Touma's legs, walked around the table, and curiously poked underside of Oriana's breasts.

"I can believe Riku nee-chan is related to you" smaller girl said dejectedly, poking older girl's chest with a finger" This looks the same too..."

Oriana blinked in confusion, before smiling softly.

"You know... Amazora, was it... it certainly explains a lot if we say that rip o... Rikuri, is my cousin. But you know, that means you are my cousin too. I can safely say that if you'll care for yourself and drink your milk, you will grow as big as me."

"I will? Then just you wait, unexpected cousin! Also, there are things that are still my own specialty. Look at my ultimate thigh fla-"

"Amazora! We are in public!"

"That's okay, I don't mind. At least she is creative" Oriana laughed.

"That's not the point here! What a crazy cousin we have now" Kaibi exclaimed in exapseration" Still makes me wonder how two of you even met up."

"W-Well..." Touma fumbled slightly, which Oriana quickly exploited, with a devious smile on her face.

"Oh, I met him during a delivery. He fell straight onto my chest. Then he chased me all throughout the city, before finally getting me in the secluded part of the airport and..." Oriana hit her open hand with her fist a few times" and pounded repeatedly for an hour"

There was deafening silence, with Kaibi's eyes becoming empty as static TV.

"Oriana-san! Kaibi is looking at me as if I was some form of excrement!"

"Oh? No sexy jokes with double meanings? I thought I got it from this side of the family!"

"This is no joke, you are dropping my life expectancy!"

"Onii-chan really goes for everything and everyone that looks like onee-chan..."

"A-Amazora, don't say it in that blank tone while holding onto the knife from the table! Halt that route at once, my luck will not handle a yandere with gattling gun! Everyone! I fell onto Oriana's chest by accident, I was chasing her because I needed to stop her from doing something... problematic for the city, and then we fought. As if, in battle against each other, with pounding being done with a fist! A fist!"

Another moment of silence...

"I don't care if you include fist and beating up in your deviancy!"

"Why is it every time I try to make those misunderstandings better, they somehow got even worse!"

"Onee-chan, can I also get chased by onii-chan into secluded space?!"

"Not on my watch!"

(LATER...)

They went out. Apparently, Rikuri couldn't come because she had something important on the college and had to stay there longer, with Amazora and Kaibi going to meet Touma and Oriana from their respective schools. They decided, with Oriana agreeing, to surprise her with her newfound cousin.

"You are taking it really well, Oriana-san. And accepted it fast" Touma commented, as Oriana, who volounteered to piggyback Amazora, walked next to him and Kaibi.

"Well, it was a big surprise, but it kind of makes sense of the many holes I had in my own history. Plus, what can I say, the more, the merrier."

"Seems like Amazora took a liking to you"

In short span of ten minutes, Oriana and Amazora managed to befriend one another.

"Ori nee-chan is so cool! She was in so many places all around the world. And she promised to bring me souvenirs"

"Don't be so surprised" Oriana said, noticing Touma's look" I always loved to play with children when I had the occasion. Which, unfortunately, didn't happen all that often since my nun days."

As they continued on their way to the apartment, Kaibi grasped Touma's hand with a slightly angry face.

"Listen, I am giving you the time to think about my confession, but I am not allowing such foolery, even if it's with my cousin"

She gave him a cross look, but it seemed earlier irritation already left her, and was doing it more playfully than angrily.

As they arrived before the apartment building, Kaibi spoke to Oriana

"Wait for a moment. We will check if she is still out. Well, she ought to be, as me and Amazora ditched the school earlier today to meet with you. But wait for a signal, so the surprise won't be ruined"

"Alright, alright, I entertain myself for a moment" Oriana waved at them" You go ahead"

And so, Touma, Kaibi and Amazora went inside, took the elevator, and walked to their apartment.

However... the door were open. Not widely so, but evidently someone didn't pay enough attention to fully go inside.

"Kaibi... where is Index?" Touma asked quietly, as both he and the girls tensed in their movements.

"She went with Maidono to check some restaurant. Hasako-san should be out with that bilboard brow know-it-all"

They all got quiet, even Amazora, as they entered the corridor leading to the rest of the apartment.

For few seconds, everything seemed normal.

Until a female voice spoke out

"Don't you think that this is going on for long enough? In a way, this can be beneficial for you in learning independence. But I am sure you are aware that this acting out has its limits"

That was an unfamiliar voice that Touma never heard before. Amazora also didn't appear to react to it. The same could not be said about Kaibi, who paled, with face contorted with shock, anger, and revulsion.

"No..." she whispered" It can't be..."

"But... I can't..."

That was Rikuri's voice, although slightly trembling and choked up.

"Gokusai Rikuri, you couldn't possibly think that this charade of the three of you can go on forever. Think about this rationally. There is no better way for you. All you need to do is come with me. You don't want to let me down, right?"

"I... I don't..."

In the next moment, Kaibi stormed off forward.

"Kaibi, wait" Touma had no option but to follow, and soon...

All three of them went to the living room, where two people were sitting by the table.

First was Rikuri, whose eyes became big with shock as she noticed them.

"Everyone! Why are you here?! You shouldn't be... I am..."

"So they are here too. Perfect, this might be for the better. It will help you close the chapter"

The other woman on the table seemed to be in her upper 30s. She wore an elegant burgundy dress with sapphire lining that matched her blue eyes. The dress was quite daring, showing a lot of impressive yet balanced chest and statuesque legs, identical to those of Rikuri and Oriana. The woman had voluminous hair of a greyish-brown hue, that curled at the ends of each lock. Even if she was in mature age, she looked extraordinarily good. From her eyes and overall body language emanated both beauty and power, as she watched the trio of newcomers.

But that wasn't the most crucial and shocking part. No, it was...

"What are you doing here, mother?" Kaibi asked coldly, not taking the eyes out of the woman.

... the fact that Touma recognized her. Identical with the image of certain photo, the similarity to her daughters was unmistakable.

Without a doubt, sitting in front of them, was the mother of Gokusai sisters, Gokusai Yua.

"Can't I see my daughters? It should be normal for a mother"

Amazora's mouth opened and she wobbled unsurely on her feet. Out of the three sisters she had least amount of memories with her mother, which warranted even greater confusion from the girl's side.

"Yes, it should be. Except you didn't care for years after our escape. Why would you be interested now? No, wait a second... how can you even be here? You didn't know where we were... unless..."

She turned to Rikuri.

"Nee-san... you didn't..."

"Kaibi... I... please understand, she told me..."

"HOW COULD YOU?! I thought we agreed to leave this behind."

"I see you still have that foul mouth and sharp tongue" the woman sighed, crossing her arms" You could have thought you lost sight of me, but I am one of the richest women in Japan. Locating you, even in here, was only a matter of time and patience"

"Onii-chan... onee-chans... who really is that lady?" Amazora asked, with uncharacterisitc uncertainty" What does she want with Riku nee-san?"

The elegant woman looked at the small girl with somewhat melancholic expression.

"Oh yes, because of your little escapade, you barely remember me, is that right? Gokusai Yuamiko, Gokusai Yua for short. I am your mother, Amazora."

The girl gasped slightly and grabbed Touma's trousers, as if in gesture of seeking support.

"Amazora asked you a valid question" Kaibi didn't change a tone of her voice even for a moment" You were absent for so long, yet you show up now. I won't believe pulling any 'loving mother' crap, so just spare as some time and tell us why you are really here"

"Straight to the point then" Yua narrowed her eyes" Fine. But I suppose, since this concerns her, it would be best for your older sister to tell you what's happening. You wouldn't mind, would you?"

Rikuri gulped slightly, before nodding.

"She... Mother's been phoning me for some time now. Ever since I turned 18, in fact. And since I am going to be 19 soon, she doubled her insistence... that I will go back and reassume my position as a heiress. She was very...persuasive, and said that all will be forgiven, and I will be treated like a member of royalty. All I should do is to go back and to leave this life behind..."

Kaibi opened her mouth in outrage

"FORGIVEN?! After we were the ones who suffered?! You can't possibly agree to that!"

"You don't understand! The part of the deal was that you two will be left in peace..."

"There is no way I'm ever losing my sister like this!"

"Losing?" Yua raised an eyebrow" You talk as if she will die or something alongside those lines. On the contrary, I think she would be found. She will inherit what is rightfully hers and then she might be able to help you two as well"

Kaibi stared for a moment, before exploding into loud laughter. It was kind of unnerving, seeing someone so calm and collected getting engulfed by such strong emotions and consuming anger.

"Are you hearing yourself right now? You think I didn't see how you treated nee-san? Ever since dad died, you've been overworking her to the bone."

"I only did that to prepare her for troubles of life. To make her stronger, responsible, mature!"

"Mother, don't act like you actually cared! It was all about business. She was exhausted"

"No, Kaibi-san!" Rikuri got up, voicing her own thoughts" you had it much harder than me. That's why this should never repeat again. Just let me be a good big sister for once and-"

"That's not true at all!" Kaibi screamed back" Yes, I was ignored, and treated like empty air, and it hurt a lot, but I at least didn't have to suffer all the emotional burdens mom put you through. You want to be a good big sister? Then think about me and Amazora. We would never let you go!"

Rikuri turned to Amazora, whose lips formed a thin line.

"Amazora, sweetie, I..."

"I don't know what's going on, but mom can't take Riku nee-san! I won't... I won't let her! We are together, we will always be together! Nee-chan can't go!"

"Amazora..." Rikuri clenched her fists" I... I want to stay with you... I..."

"Rikuri~..." Yua whispered firmly, causing the oldest girl to shudder slightly" Spend the time on goodbyes and not on dragging off this melodrama"

"But mother, they have a..."

"Rikuri... you don't want them to be miserable, right? All you can do to help them is to agree..."

"You can't possibly be serious in listening to her." Kaibi once again screamed towards Rikuri.

"But... you know how influential she is. She can make your life worse in so many ways. I... I don't want this"

"Your sister is the oldest and most reasonable for a reason" Yua answered Kaibi" Unlike some girls, who ungratefully flee homes and take more promising siblings alongside them."

Kaibi's eyes glowed pink.

"I had a inkling of hope that you changed, but it's all the same. You are just like grandma"

For the first time, Yua's face reddened and her fist clenched as well

"Don't you dare compare me to her, Kaibi!"

"Or what? A lot changed since we saw each other. With my power, I..."

Suddenly, Measure Heart deactivated, as Touma, silent until now, put his hand on her shoulder.

"What? Let me do..."

"That won't solve anything. It will now, but it's only a temporary fix"

Touma then addressed Yua.

"Tell me, what kind of mother would manipulate their children like this?"

"Excuse me... who, for heaven's sake, are you supposed to be?"

"I am Kamijou Touma"

"Well, Kamijou Touma-kun, this is a private family business. You should le-"

"No" Kaibi firmly shot back" he is staying"

"Huh? Then I ask again, who are you supposed to be to my daughters?"

"I am... a friend. A flatmmate. And, although it is still fresh... a family"

"Family?" Yua smirked sarcastically" I certainly don't remember giving birth to you, boy"

Touma ignored the remark and continued

"But most importantly, I am someone who can't ignore someone in need of help. I am someone who saves people, everyone in need. And one of the people I cherish is right me, begging to be helped out"

Rikuri opened her mouth, but no sound came out.

"What are you talking about?"

"This should never go on. I've seen people like you before. The tragedy that struck you caused you to try to cope so hard that you actually claimed your protective illusion for truth. There is nothing wrong with trying to protect yourself in order to heal. But if you don't embrace reality, you will end up hurting the ones you actually love. And it will destroy you."

Yua frowned at that.

"I am not hurting anyone. I truly have her best interest at heart"

"You may believe that, and it may even be true in a way. But look at Rikuri-san. It's obvious... painfully obvious, that she is scared of you. I will not pry into what happened between you all those years ago, but she is terrified. What did you say to Rikuri-san to make her act like you wanted to? And for what price?"

"That... that's not what it is! She is afraid because she doesn't understand. I repeat that I only wanted what's best for them"

"Mother... you've been overworking Rikuri nee-san, making her fret every mistake. How many times you scolded her? How many times you showed disdain for her failure?" Kaibi shook her head with displeased scowl" I was a middle child, so you ignored me and tried to separate me from the others. I am surprised you even remembered me at all. But I swallowed all of that loneliness, because I wanted Rikuri nee-san to be free from fear. For Amazora to have a normal childhood instead of growing up a spare. We escaped to be free of this imposed nightmare"

"And I was worried. I truly was!" Yua placed hand on her chest" You may blame me, but what you did was immature and put you in danger"

Amazora tightened her grasp on Touma.

"Onee-chans... always argued of what to think of mom. I... you are scary..."

That actually caused the woman to flinch slightly

"Now, that's a little-"

"If you were so worried..." Touma interrupted mother's reply" then why did you only now tried to return to their lives? You monitored them, didn't you? You knew they were safe enough, so you didn't pursue it further. I heard what happened back then. And I think you are more afraid than anyone here. You averted your eyes from the family and threw yourself into work, and before you knew it, your own daughters turned into instruments for you to cope with that loss. You avoid taking responsibility for your own actions and cover it with excuses so strong that they became your reality. But as things are now, you have no right to interfere in their lives here"

Yua stood up and walked in front of Touma

"You are daring, boy, but who the hell do you think you are to meddle with the affairs of Gokusai family?"

"From your point of view" Touma answered calmly, not breaking away from the blue eyes of imposing woman" probably no one. Yet, I can become anything or anyone needed to prevent those three from having their happiness stolen away."

"I am trying to ensure that happiness. In the future, they will thank me for being forceful right now"

"Maybe, but again, at what cost? When they arrive at that point, they will not be themselves anymore. It's important to take from the past, and plan for the future... but ultimately, we are supposed to live in the present. What you are doing is escaping into the future to avoid the present... because those around you remind you too much of the happy past. You're running from your own family and from the grief you still feel"

"I...I WILL NOT BE LECTURED ABOUT AFFAIRS OF MY FAMILY BY SOME STRANGER! You have no idea what it means to be the head of Gokusai family. Whoever you are, you were clearly not experienced enough by life to-"

"I am going to stop you right there, before my own anger gets the better of me" a voice came from behind Touma, Kaibi, and Amazora.

Yua suddenly paled, and her legs almost gave out under her.

"Sis...ter?" she choked out, a voice octave higher than before.

"You?" Rikuri asked in surprise.

Oriana Thomson walked into the apartment, whistling a little.

"Wow, nice place. I waited and waited, but got a little bored. I decided to search for you, and found first family squabble from my new relatives."

"Aya... no, she is dead... and you have different hair..." Yua shook her head, before looking at Oriana again" But still... you look like a spitting image of my sister when we were younger... but since you look like this, you must be that child..."

"Thomson. Oriana Thomson. I suspect that you are mom's younger sister, which would make me your niece" the blond magician put a hand on her hip, while looking at the older woman" I would say that it's a pleasure, but you said something that really irks me up in a wrong way"

She pointed at Touma.

"I know I am freshly introduced to family framework, but as his former enemy who got taste of his motives and desires, I will not stand for staining his spirit. Those unenlightened by the nature of his right hand may throw comments like that on the wind, but he is anything but lucky. His time of life is shorter than yours, and I don't really know much of it, but I am positive that he experienced a lot more sorrow and strife than you. So, if you don't want to piss me off, don't speak like that"

"Also, mother..." Kaibi walked closer to Kamijou, seizing his hand" Touma is not a stranger. Surely, he can be reckless, foolish, or irrational. But without a doubt, he did a whole lot for this family. By which I mean the three of us. He offered each one of us support and care, even when we weren't in friendly relations, even when we opposed him. He believed in us, and he never tried to forcibly change us into something we are not. He is someone who was there for us time and time again, and...I...I needed time to appreciate just how much he changed me for the better. So I am going to stand by him, and not by you, in a heartbeat."

Amazora nodded, also grabbing Touma's hand

"I don't really know you, mom, but you can learn from onii-chan! He is always caring for me, whenever we have fun, when I am sick, when I have nightmares, when I need to talk about something, or just eat tasty oysters with him. I am the happiest in the world when I am with him. He saved my life, mom! It's only thanks to him that I can smile, laugh, shoot and do all those funny things I can do with my family. He could leave me and Riku nee-chan, but he didn't. He never thought about leaving me, so I am not leaving him, and Riku nee-chan too!"

Oriana sighed and stepped forward

"I am also rather vehement to side with my favourite guy here... oh my, both hands taken, just what should I grab..."

"Oriana-san..."

"Alright, alright, I'm trying to defuse a situation just a tiny bit..." she said, putting a hand on Touma's left arm.

Touma spoke to Rikuri, who was looking with wide eyes at the demonstration before her.

Touma looked at her, straight into her eyes, with her attention focusing solely on the oldest sister.

It could be strange, that this young woman, who in the past poisoned people without as much as an eye twitch, was so afraid that she couldn't even properly opposed her mother's wishes. But this was the thing common about the fear rooted in the past: its roots stretched deep and touched the most vulnerable parts of one's self. They enveloped whatever fragility they found and created vicious cycles so convoluted that one took them as face value. This was why Touma and other people precious to Rikuri had to give her this push.

"Rikuri... what I'm saying is that you are your own person. You and your sisters build something out of those tarnished bonds. Amazora is right, you are a team, and it's one of the qualities that allowed you to cultivate your love for one another despite the darkness of your traumas and experiences during all those long years. I will not stop you, and maybe this result will be beneficial. But will it really be you? That's all I ask for. Think of what Gokusai Rikuri truly wants, who she truly is"

"Rikuri..." Yua grasped the hand of her daughter with almost pleading eyes" Returning with me will finally make things right. Compared to your sisters, you wanted to have those happy times back the most, isn't that right? Help me bring them back, piece by piece, and I swear that we will reclaim everything that we lost"

Rikuri closed her eyes and breathed in.

As she watched Touma and the others, it hit her.

What the hell was she doing? She was so stressed by all of this, so terrified of perspective of confrontation with her mother that she didn't focus enough on what was right in front of her eyes.

She recalled all the times she and her sisters were together. All the battles, all the funny and dramatic moments.

She reminisced on the time when she met Touma and over a year later, reunited with him, got to know him, was impressed and charmed by him over and over again, to the point of actually falling in love.

She realized how much her life had changed, how many friends she gained, how many happy moments she spend with Touma, her younger sisters, their neighbours, and friends. Just how much her world brightened from such simple things.

As cliche as it could sound, it all flashed before her eyes in those mere seconds.

She took a deep breath, and firmly said.

"No"

"I am sorry, what?" her mother blinked, backing away a little.

"I said... no!" Rikuri stood up, finally lifting her head up to look her mother in the eyes." You are right mother, I do wish for things to return to normal"

"Then-"

"But not like this. If I go back, it will not change a thing. You keep imposing your way on me, on all of us. Because you tried to hard, we all escaped and now we have our own lives, that we can't risk to abandon. No, we do not wish to abandon them at all. I admit, running away was, in retrospect, rather selfish. We didn't try to talk it through with you or consider your feelings. For that, I apologize. But for us to make it work, you have to face reality, like Touma said. You have to make an effort from your side."

"But I'm-"

"And I am not talking about the company or your efforts to give us a good life. Our feelings, mother, is what you need to respect. I know that your own feelings scare you, but if you keep avoiding both your own emotions and our own ones, we will never move past father's death. He wouldn't want that. He wouldn't want our relationship eroding away like this..."

"Rikuri..." Yua closed her eyes and shook his head" You used to be such a nice girl... did this boy filled your head with all of this stuff? Maybe I should separate you two for whole another reason..."

But before she could move towards Touma, it was Rikuri who slid in between them.

"Mother, listen closely, because I am not going to repeat myself. And Touma... it's not going to go in a way I envisioned it, but I would hate it for not saying it now.

Mother... it's like my sweet little sisters said. Kamijou Touma did a lot of good for us. He accepted us, befriended us, he even saved mine and Amazora's lives. He's been nothing but a valorous and courageous gentleman ever since I met him. He is a great partner, companion, fellow student from this city, someone who cares for my sisters just as much as I do. But above all the roles I can ascribe to him, there is one reason above all others as to why I cannot abandon him. Why I would never forgive myself if I did."

"WHAT?! Just what is it?!" Yua screamed in irritation" What is the reason for you acting like this, what can possibly be the reason for you to deny my own extended hand, what can this guy be to-"

"BECAUSE I LOVE HIM!" Rikuri screamed, and it was the loudest anyone in the room ever heard of her. It could be to overpower her mother's loud voice, but it had great effect, causing the entire room to freeze.

Rikuri smiled, with small tears in her eyes, and turned to Touma, putting one hand to his heart while putting the other on her own.

"I love him, mother. Yes... I love you, Touma. I love that you saved and protected my sisters. I love how you always care about what I think. I love to wake up in the morning and see you healthy and well. I love your sense of humour, I love when we talk. I love when we try to make food together. I love when you listened to my passions and acknowledged them. I love how beautiful you make me felt with just your opinions on me. I love how much my world brightened and broadened since you came along. I love that we can share our feelings for Amazora and Kaibi. I love that we can chat and laugh as if there is no tomorrow, despite bad moments we experienced. I love how you always confided in me and tried to encourage me to be myself, just like you did now, even when I felt like the hope was lost. Even if we disagree in something, I am motivated to find a solution because I wanted to be happy with you.

You cleared my heart of the only poison I couldn't resist, my own self-doubt and insecurity. There are many things I can't thank you enough. But I can say without a doubt that I know that you made me proud to be myself. A chemist, a mechanic, a woman, and the elder sister of Gokusai family."

"Rikuri... truly... you want to link your life with him?"

"With all the respect, I don't need your acceptance, mother. My feelings are laid bare, what happens now is for Touma to decide. But I declare this: after everything he did, and everything he made me feel, being his love or even bearing his child... it would be an honour!"

Although Rikuri was almost fully red on the cheeks when she finished that sentence, together with absolutely astonished Touma, she still looked into her mother's eyes, mustering her courage once again.

Two women looked at each other for a while, before Yua sighed.

"Even I would be a fool if I assumed that you come with me now. Fine, you can continue living here for a while longer. But this is not the last you see of me, I assure you of that"

And with that, she simply left, as quickly as she appeared.

After she was gone, Rikuri collapse to her knees

"Woah! Riku nee-chan did it! She is staying with us!" Amazora threw her fist into the air.

"Quite a performance there, cousin..." Oriana clapped her hands a few times" I am a bit envious, honestly"

"So..." Rikuri smiled tiredly" we are cousins after all? Just when I thought today couldn't get any more tedious..."

"So, nee-san, it appears we are on the same page now." Kaibi smiled at Rikuri" With you confessing and such"

"It appears so" Rikuri nodded" and speaking of pages, I think I will take one of your book and wait on until... I think until this affair with Mitsuari-san clears up"

"Hmm... not a bad idea, actually. We should tell... hold on, where is he?"

"Onii-chan? He was here just a moment ago..."

(MEANWHILE...)

"Gokusai-san... wait?"

Yua stopped as she was about to exit the apartment complex.

She turned around to face Kamijou Touma.

"What do you want, boy? You came to gloat that my own daughter chose you over me?"

"Wh...no! I mean, I still had to process the fact that she basically confessed to me, but... no, I just wanted to make some things clear."

"Oh?" one perfectly trimmed eyebrow rose slightly in curiosity.

"Gokusai-san, like I said, I am nothing truly important in the grand scheme of things. I am not on a level with girls from a good, rich family, like your daughters. I possibly can't fathom the range of influence you actually possess. But none of this matters. Even in face of all of this, I will destroy every illusion that can threaten the peace and happiness your daughters cherish" Touma clenched his right fist and brought it upwards" Even if it's their own mother"

"Did you come over here to threaten me?"

"No, far from it. I am just stating facts. The fact that I will do my utmost to protect them is one of them. But... when I said that I want to save everyone... that also includes you"

The beautiful woman tilted her head as if he spoke in a different language.

"What?!"

"I saw it in your eyes, in your body language, in everything" Touma spoke on strongly" and I am convinced. You are not a villain or a bad person, Yua-san. You were just changed, horribly changed by the emotions you weren't able to show. You are suffering so much, and you just can't tell the beginning from the end. Just like your daughters. Deep down, you know you are hurting them. Are you feeling guilty for that time? Do you want them to hate you?"

Something shifted in that mother's eyes.

"Yes... no... I... why do you assume those things?"

"Because I know your daughters for some time now. Kaibi-san is really similar to you, and she speaks in the same way when she is agitated. Not to mention, your lip trembles just like Amazora when she tries to hold back tears. I know it's supposed to be the other way around but... the point is..."

He walked right in front of the Gokusai matriarch and smiled warmly.

"Believe me, I know... I know so well... how far you have to come to go home again sometimes. How much you have to do to achieve something seemingly right in front of you. But Gokusai-san... a family should be together. You should belong together. Did you got so lost in your grief that you became the very person you despised? How could you forget?"

As Yua stared wordlessly, she saw another silhouette, overlapped with Touma's.

"Haruto?"

But in a blink of an eye, it was gone, and only young boy with a spiky hair stood in front of her.

"You sounded... you sounded like my late husband, just about now. Quite a peculiar guy you are... I can't decide if I should dislike or like you"

"Feeling is more or less mutual. Although, I suspect I will see more of good, likeable qualities in the future"

"Why... why are you so sure? So kind towards me? Amazora doesn't know me, Kaibi hates me, and Rikuri... I don't know anymore..."

"Because healing takes time and effort. If you were a heartless, egoistic monster... then what are these?"

Touma pointed at her cheeks and Yua gasped when she found the wetness of tears on them.

She was furious not so long ago, and then confused beyond belief. But this boy managed to touch something in her and actually let part of her feelings flow freely.

"As I said, Healing takes time and effort. Maybe you need to think about it. But I just want to say, if you ever open your heart enough to try, I will back you up with everything I have. I will help you truly mend the relationship with your daughters"

With that he turned away. The astonished woman managed to speak before he disappeared inside.

"W-Why? What can you gain from this? Why would you do this for me?"

Touma twisted his head and his smile became more nonchalant.

"I don't need a reason to help others. Besides, I know that you care for them too. You just got lost along the way because of your own sorrow and insecurity. But it's not impossible for you to begin again. All I did was shattering the illusion of hopelessness in your heart. The decision what you do with the newfound choice is only yours to take"

With that, he returned to his home.

Gokusai Yua stood there for a minute or two, before wiping up her tears and looking at the sky with a sigh

"What a strange young man..."

(THE NEXT DAY)

"Surprise!"

Touma, Amazora, Kaibi, Hasako, Maidono, Oriana Index, Othinus, Hanatsuyu twins, Aikawa Enka alongside his girlfriend, Hanamiya Kaira and Fukiyose Seiri cheered, as Rikuri put up hands over her mouth, witnessing the surprise birthday party.

It was all perfect. It started in a restaurant, and then went to their apartment. There were lots of activities themed with Rikuri's interest, including drone-piloting on open air, cooking with lots of fun chemical reactions, karaoke, movie, and many more.

Fukiyose and Maidono helped with reservations and activities, while Hasako and Touma handled cooking. Youen and Kaai, with the help of Itsuki, ordered a drone-shape cake, which almost caused the birthday girl to suffocate from hysterical laughter.

As time passed, Touma felt incredible warmth inside. Seeing Rikuri practically beaming with happiness throughout the evening was all he needed to deem this party a success. It was so brilliant it almost visibly brightened the room.

The guests also found it entertaining to party among themselves. Touma saw Index conversing with Hasako, Maidono showing off in front of Fukiyose, Enka listening to Kaai with a slightly concerned but nevertheless amused experession, and Oriana playing along with Amazora.

"Everybody" Kaibi said merrily, the cheerful atmosphere of a party being enough to influence even her stoic persona" As per tradition, we can share stories about the sister of honour. She had some embarrassing stories on me when it was my birthday, so it's her turn to suffer! Everyone, share some funny stories about Rikuri, come on! The more chaotic and embarrassing the better! Like that one time when she kept outgrowing all of her clothes and the dress ripped right over her butt!"

"That's... quite a tradition" Enka whispered to his girlfriend, as they watched evilly grinning siblings ready to dig up some dirt from the past.

"Well, it varies from family. I guess it's a terapeutic badmouthing to get distance to oneself?"

(MEANWHILE)

With so many people talking about her, Gokusai Rikuri sneezed thrice in rapid succession, as the she and Touma stood on the balcony together.

"Are you alright?" Touma asked, handing Rikuri the hoodie, which she gratefully covered her body with.

"Nothing to worry about, just a sudden chill."

"You partied rather hard, I wouldn't want you to be sick."

"Honestly, it's so adorable when someone who can casually slam a fist into the woman's face is so gentlemanly behaved. No, if I were to be superstitious, I would say Kaibi and Amazora are having a blast with bringing out some embarrassing memories. They always do, it's our birthday tradition to laugh at our flops"

They stared at the sky, before Rikuri smiled seductively at him.

"We both know what you want to talk about"

"Yes... I know acting on this confession is put on hold until we have more time, but I... want to thank you. From the bottom of my heart"

"There is nothing to thank for" the girl smiled, brushing against his shoulder, with her sweet smelling hair glowing in the sunlight" It was an honest truth. Still, I am glad you like it."

"Speaking of liking and disliking... I still have to give you my present."

Rikuri received a lot of presents. A treatment in most luxurious spa in Academy City from both Enka and Kaira. A limited edition lotion and gel from Fukiyose. The stash of very rare ingredients to use in her chemicals from Kaai and Youen. A new dress from Hasako. A most up to date drone from Maidono. A romance novel from Kaibi. A package of sweets and new family crayon painting from Amazora. A pair of stylish shoes from Oriana.

Touma opened his hand to reveal...

"Oh my... is that... an actual diamond?" Rikuri gasped, as she looked at the small crystal on the necklace.

"Yeah. I thought... you like elegant accessories..."

"You... didn't sell any of your organs, right?"

"What? No, no, it's actually... actually it's the cooperation of a few people. Youen gave me carbon of proper quality, and Maidono used her strongest telekinesis to compress it and rearrange atomic alignment into diamond. She succeeded, even though she looked like she was constipated as she performed it and it ended up with a nosebleed. Then I asked Itsuki-san to help me get the facets right. Do you like it?"

"It's beautiful. Can you put it on me?"

Touma nodded, as Rikuri closed her eyes and gathered her long hair to expose nape of her neck.

But as the silver chain got closed around her neck...

"Maybe a little shorter..."

Rikuri giggled, as too long chain caused the diamond to almost disappear between her big breasts and causing Touma to blush.

After readjustment, the small diamond shone on Rikuri's body in all of its glory.

"Well then... happy birthday, Rikuri" Touma smiled and was about to leave, when Rikur grabbed his arm.

"Wait... before you think about my feelings and we get involved in search for Ayu-san... since it's my birthday... I have one more selfish request... you see, while meditating on my feelings, I remembered something we did... and I say we have couple of minutes before someone will actually bother to fetch us.

She clicked the switch on the remote causing the blinds to cover the view from the inside to the balcony.

"So let us just enjoy this anew for this moment..."

Smoothly, as if it was the most natural route of movement, she linked her lips with his own, savouring, caressing, and embracing them.

Touma's surprise was only momentary, before he felt his own eyes closed, more on an instinct than anything else. There was no possible or actual world in which he would oppose something like that from a person like this, as he gladly indulged in Rikuri's selfish wish.

It felt like light, something that would be eternally bright.

But everyone knew and no one knew it better than Kamijou Touma, that there was no light without shadows.

(HOURS LATER)

Shirai Kuroko was going to her dorm from her Judgement office. She was absolutely exhausted.

"And Uiharu wasn't there today... I couldn't evade that damn paperwork..." the teleporter wailed.

She recalled in amusement the moment when ape introduced his silver haired nun friend to Uiharu and how said nun gave her friend an identity crisis as a hacker after memorizing almost entire personal data from their database.

Speaking of ape... he was one of the reasons Kuroko was tired. More precisely, it was the case of Mitsuari Ayu. Even with the help of Hokaze Junko, the case was rather tedious. Questioning the teachers was hard enough, and stories among students varied. It seemed Mitsuari was a recluse of sorts and someone that was on the borderline of taboo. Mental Out was especially awkward in discussing her for some reason.

Who is Mitsuari Ayu, really? And what connection does she have with the ape? I wonder...

And then, it happened. More so, it happened in an instance.

In one second, Kuroko was passing through the entrance to the dark alley.

In the next, she knew... just knew... that a hand emerged from that darkness.

She froze, as the feeling of dread descended upon her.

She didn't sense or see anyone before. More so, she suddenly got goosebumps all over her skin. Those reactions made her act too slowly. She was swiftly grabbed and dragged into the darkness. A hand was put on her mouth.

"Mmmm...mhmmmm!"

"Sh, sh, sh, sh, sssssssssssh..." shushed a quiet, yet vibrant voice next to her ear. "Believe me, screaming is the worst thing you can do... for you and the people that may come to help you, that is. I feel so good in a flesh that I might just do something that would stain my clothes..."

That voice... was smooth as silk, yet in a way terrified her more than most things she heard during her time as a Judgement member. This guy, whoever he was, radiated cold, focused power, not hazy brutality of some street thug.

Worst of all... she found herself gasping, as she realized for some reason she couldn't teleport away. What was going on? Some drug? Technology similar yet different to Capacity Down?

And when she looked up...

Her heart unwillingly accelerated.

She couldn't see entire silhouette, only one hand, wearing a glove, and the eyes. But those eyes, shining in the darkness, were unlike any other she saw in her life.

They were bright green and pink, like some exotic bugs, with irises shifting and gleaming in the darkness.

"Who... are you? What do you want..." she managed to whisper, as her attacker shifted his hand away" What did you do with my power?"

"Answering first would be too much of a bother..." the smooth yet chilling voice answered" and the answer to the third would rob away the fun. As for what I want... I am such a good guy that, I want to warn you, precious Kuroko-chan"

"What the hell are you talking about?" Kuroko muttered before her cheeks were forcibly squished.

"DROP IT. Mitsuari Ayu's case... is not something goody, principled girl like you should get her nose into" as if to play with words, he booped tip of Kuroko's nose with a finger" I assume you are a smart one, so you should be able to backtrack from things beyond you"

"If you're trying to intimidate me... it's my duty as Judgement member to stop anything shady going with-"

"Tsk, tsk, tsk, sweet Kuroko-chan. Wrong, wrong, wrong. Thinking about 'duties' and 'obligations' makes me yawn and barf. No, I need to hear it from you as a person. Do you honestly think tackling this will be enough for you not to break?"

CRACK!

Pain came moment after Kuroko registered what happened.

In an instant, her wrist became dislocated and sprained, as she stifled her cry of anguish.

The mysterious attacker clicked his tongue

"What are they feeding you in Tokiwadai? No wonder it breaks so easily if your arms look like twigs. "

"W...Why are you attacking me? What is so important about Mitsuari Ayu?" Kuroko spat out.

"Oh, you don't honestly think I would give an evil monologue, right? Let's just say that it's of my concern for that girl to be out of sight. I will see that this nauseating other me fails once and for all, so I can assume what's rightfully mine. As for hurting you... come on, what's with you all? How many times do I have to say this? I don't ever need a reason..."

Kuroko's tawny irises widened as the thin crescent moon of a smile, barely visible, appeared under the eerie spheres of pink and green.

"... to hurt others, do I?"

Kuroko felt dread permeate every bone in her body, chilling even the stinging pain in her wrist.

She recalled what they were once told on the training for a new recruits

'One might think that criminals with most violent behaviour are the most dangerous, but it's often the opposite. Criminals with sociopathic tendencies are to be treated with extreme caution. They are not much different than normal people in behaviour, but their won't even flinch in face of things that would get other people emotional. They are cold, calculative, focused, incredibly hard to read. They don't lost focus that easily, and their anger is the one that hits painfully, without as much of a sped up heartbeat from their side or emotional restraint. If you ever encounter someone like this, immediately call for backup'

This guy... Kuroko felt that if he decided something on a whim, he would execute it and move on without much of a remorse.

"Now, as much as it was fun chatty flirt against the wall, I have other things to enjoy in his moment of weakness. See you, twintails"

He let her go and Kuroko coughed slightly, before reaching for the disappearing silhouette.

"Wait! Whatever you're trying to hide... I swear I will uncover the truth and make you pay for humiliating me! I will help Kamijou Touma with this case, if it's the last thing I do!"

The mysterious person chuckled

"I wouldn't phrase it like that. But, I did my part, it's your wish if you and your friends want to ignore such friendly warning. To have a teleporter against me... how innovative... at least I will be able to test how fast can you flee, to quench my boredom a little...

Despite mustered bravery, Kuroko felt her mouth go dry, as the tone of the mysterious attacker was equal to the one of the businessman ordering something in a lunch bar.

"Now then, unlike other irresponsible part of myself, I take my mission of protecting others seriously. Bye bye!"

And just as suddenly as he appeared, there was no trace in the alley.

With a quiet hiss of pain, Kuroko readjusted the forcibly dislocated wrist of her hand. Fortunately, it turned out that it wasn't damaged as badly as she thought.

Only now did she notice that she was covered in sweat. She slowly made her way back to the street and resumed march towards the dorm

What in the hell was that about? Who was that? Why was he threatening her?

Kuroko found herself at loss about many things. Especially...

Her power wasn't working when he was holding her, yet began to work properly once again when he let go. It was just like...

Kuroko shook her head. No, no, no, it couldn't be. Ape was sometimes an uncultured idiot, but he was also kind and heroic, Kuroko had to admit that. Whoever was in that shadowy alley couldn't possibly share a connection with Kamijou Touma, could he?

Maybe ape's ability wasn't unique, like he insisted? Maybe he wasn't the only one that could interfere with her teleportation like that?

Too many questions and clearly not enough answers.

Kuroko passed through the entrance of her dorm, put the identification card against the scanner, and soon she was in front of her dorm room.

When she entered the room, she was greeted with the sight of Misaka Mikoto wrapped in the towel, with her chestnut hair still wet and bare skin slightly steaming

"Oh, hi Kuroko. You're back quite late"

Kuroko nodded and teleported onto her bed, dropping on it like a lifeless doll. It took her a minute to realize Mikoto was still staring at her.

"Oh... onee-sama?"

"Kuroko... is everything alright? Ehm... I feel so stupid that I use this as an actual argument, but... you didn't jump on me after I exited shower? So... are you feeling okay?"

"Onee-sama, is your opinion on my self control that low?"

There was a long stare of brown eyes.

"A-All right, fair enough. But I am fine, absolutely fine. Just very tired from Judgement work"

Mikoto looked at her for a few more seconds, before nodding

"If you say so. Just remember, if you have any problem, you can talk to me, right?"

Kuroko smiled and nodded

"Thank you, onee-sama. I will take it into consideration"

Kuroko said all of this to not make Mikoto worried or upset.

However, she found herself awake even two hours later, when Mikoto already drifted into the embrace of slumber.

'I need to find the answers. I would lie if I said that I am not anxious, but... this case really needs even more attention than I originally anticipated. Even without request, I should check everything out properly'

She shifted in her covers, focusing on Mikoto's sleeping face.

'My power being blocked... it's a good thing that ape is good natured. When I think about it... what do I even know about him? It's been some time since we've met, and I didn't invest him any attention, besides the amount needed to try to keep him away form onee-sama. But maybe, just maybe... he saved my life and is of such high value here... maybe closer look at what makes him tick is not a bad ide-'

Her face suddenly exploded into outraged redness of embarrassment.

'What am I even thinking? AND IN BED OF ALL PLACES?! The fact that my opinion on the ape changed over time does not mean that he is allowed my dreams. I was thinking about serious business, so why is this face of his in my head?'

After some time, and focused breathing, she finally got to sleep.

Kuroko was standing in front of the cheering crowd, as she brought the mysterious sociopath to justice.

"Curse you, you devious and attractive officer. I would have my evil ways if it wasn't for you"

Kuroko smiled as the cameras continued to flash.

"Please, not everyone at once"

"Shirai-sama" Konori bowed to her" I will promote you at once!"

"Shirai-sama!" Uiharu embraced her with tears in her eyes" You were so cool. I will always do your paperwork for the rest of my life!"

"Shirai-sama!" Saten waved towards a big crowd of people nearby" Your fanclub is ready for you!"

But just when Kuroko was about to go down the stage, she accidentally tripped.

"Oh, be careful!" said a familiar voice of Kamijou Touma, as Kuroko landed in his arms. "Just how many times you landed here?"

"I lost count" Kuroko gracefully stood up before realizing both Mikoto and Touma were now in front of her.

"Shirai, what you did...was super heroic" Touma said with enthusiasm, causing her to blush slightly

"T-That's a given, I just did what anyone would do. Can you say it... one more time."

"You are amazingly heroic"

"One... more... time..."

"You are the truest hero, Shirai-san"

"Kuroko... it's obvious that I was mistaken. Even though I love this idiot" Mikoto overdramatically put a hand to her brow" it's obvious that I can't survive without your love. Your awesomeness makes me lose control! Just take me, take me whole!"

"What will it be Shirai?" Touma, suddenly in an apron, said" would you like a bath? A dinner? Or maybe?

The apron exploded, leaving only musculature on full display

"Me?" Touma finished, winking.

Kuroko's breath sped up, as she pounced forward...

... waking up, with her hands outstretched towards the ceiling and slightly flushed cheeks.

'WHAT IS WRONG WITH MEEEEEEEE?! I was assaulted, where is the causal chain between that and me dreaming about this primate along with onee-sama?!'

She took a pillow and burried her tawny head into it. For some time, she didn't go even a moment of sleep.

(IN THE MORNING)

Touma woke up in the middle of the corridor. That in itself was strange.

The other thing was that he didn't feel rested at all. No, it was more as if he was running a marathon after going to sleep. But he went to sleep, so...

After he stopped... fulfilling Rikuri's additional request, they returned inside and enjoyed the rest of the party. Eventually, the guests went to their homes. As everyone else went to sleep, he wanted to clean everything up... and that's when his memories ended.

He looked around. It looked like there was still an hour before dawn. Four o'clock, he would say. As he groaned, getting up, the door's on his right creaked open and out stepped Amazora, rubbing her eyes.

"Onii-chan, it's you!"

Touma smiled at her.

"Did something happen, Amazora?"

"W-Well..." the girl looked around unsurely, before motioning for him to come closer" I had a weird nightmare... and I couldn't stop thinking about it..."

"Well, I am here now, so you don't have to worry a bit." Touma stroke her hair gently" What was this nightmare about?"

"Emm... I know it's weird and all... but I thought that someone was walking around our apartment. He didn't do anything, just walked slowly into every room, and observed everything while moving alongside the walls... I saw him, but I couldn't move..."

Touma frowned at that

"Sounds like mighty creepy nightmare. But well, that's luck for you. It was just a stupid dream, so-"

"Oh, and that guy also had strange eyes... a bit of... pink and green... o-onii-chan?!"

Touma's eyes widened as he suddenly got up.

"I am sorry Amazora, I will be back in a moment. I'll just go to the toilet."

As Touma found himself in the toilet, he lifted his hands up and touched his face.

'He... controlled me? Is that what happened? How did he find a way to do that? That is... insane! I need to try harder... much harder... or he will ruin my life, or worse, ruin girls' lives too!'

As he looked into the mirror, he noticed something black inside his hand.

When he examined it, it turned to be a writing with a marker, slightly blurred, but still clearly visible.

THE TIME IS COMING

Touma slowly looked up into the mirror and demonstratively cleaned his hand under water

"I do not care whatever you are plotting. I will be here to stop you, for sure"

He started to get ready for the day, after briefly returning to convince Amazora to go back to bed. Today, he had a meeting with Kumokawa Maria for their joint cooking. And speaking of Kumokawas, Touma hoped that he could have a word or two with senpai before the start of the action.

Because quite frankly, there were words that needed to be said.

(TO BE CONTINUED...)

So here we go, with my heart ready for what happens next.

In a way, this chapter is sort of a completion of certain aspects of Rikuri's hopes and insecurities. The most obvious part was of course confession, but I feel it enchanting how multi-layered Rikuri's character can be if you take a patient approach to it. Rikuri is a strong, and very intelligent woman, but people so independent and strong also suffer from a lot of hidden fears. In Rikuri's case, it was a fear of expectations, of not fulfilling her dreams, of not belonging with her sisters. And of course, all of those culminated in fear of her own mother, who she loves, but can't agree to fulfill her expectations.

I was deeply pleased while writing both Kaibi and Rikuri's confessions. They are both in different styles while conveying same feelings. Did you enjoy both? Maybe you have a favourite?

It could take many chapters to actually explore the functions and dysfunctions of Gokusai family. There are so many psychological details. We have a generational transfer, with Yua unwillingly inflicting the same oppression on her daughters as her mother did on her. We have repressed frustration of Yua for Aya, Oriana's mother, as she got to flee the country and leave the younger sibling with responsibilities. We have the current generation of sisters, with Amazora, Kaibi, and Rikuri each representing different way of problems within the family dynamic. Rikuri, suffering from overwork and overly high expectations. Kaibi, being ignored and belittled in favour of her other siblings. Amazora, treated as a useful but not ideal version of Rikuri because of her young potential. We see that it easily leads to problems with self (as with Kaibi) hidden fears and traumas (as with Rikuri) and quite atypical emotional development (which we see a little in Amazora).

But in a family system, it's the relation that's wrong, not individual people. Over time, there is no telling of who is the oppressor and who is the victim. That's why, like Touma said, I don't think Yua is a proper villain. It will take time, but her redemption is something that many real life mothers in such family systems go through. I really hope her character becomes more beautiful when she embraces her emotions and love, moving past the grief.

We have Oriana finally getting in touch with her maternal family. I thought she would integrate in quick, because she didn't have a big family before and she may be even happy to find one now. I love how, at least in this story, it got almost instantly established what the dynamics between her and her sisters are, with her being a cool big cousin to Amazora, the teasy, annoying cousin for Kaibi, and a rival/relatable girl from the same age group for Rikuri.

I know that this chapter is similar to Amazora II, in the regard that only half of it features Rikuri directly, and the other deals with her issue through the other interactions. You have to forgive me, I just simply adore Touma and Kongou together. I imagined that Kongou would be the perfect character to talk about problems with a friend, since quality friendships are so important to her. Of all the crackships, I think this is one of the most wholesome and sweet, and has amazing deal of potential. Both Kongou, as well as Wannai and Awatsuki, should definitely got more fanfics with Touma, even with lack of interaction in main series.

And then, we have Kamijou no Touma's interaction and threatening of Kuroko. To be honest, the thought of dark Kamikuro appeared in my mind before, as I was scrolling reddit, and while it wasn't really a shipping moment, it could have slightly sensual (in a twisted way) inflection. But most importantly, the characterization of Kamijou no Touma is mostly sociopathic, with KNT having his own vision of salvation, and absolutely disregarding right and wrong, completely ignoring the rights and feelings of others, while still being charming and composed in front of them, even when getting violent. He is not completely alexithymic (meaning that he can't recognize emotions) but if I were to characterize his style of acting, it's 'coldness so chilling that it actually burns' sort of anger and conviction. I think he is such an epic and cold villain, I really wish he got more expanded in the story as well. If you want to get into the mood, listen to the Douma's Theme (Douma Intro theme from season 3 episode 1) of Demon Slayer, and this will be the inspiration for KNT's mannierism.

One thing that may be needed to mention is that I get the feeling, that some people might question Touma's reactions to the confessions. We got Kaibi's confession, Mugino sort of claiming him, Rikuri's confession and Kongou's half-confession. The reason Touma is not more shocked is because of the future phase. He kind of seen it coming and now, the shock is more from the fact that this possible world is coming closer to reality, and not from the fact that the girl actually loves him. On that note, I know the handling of Touma's confessing back after the Mitsuari Arc isn't the greatest, but it does make sense from one important narrative plotpoint. You'll just have to wait and see.

And now it's time for the best senpai ever! Alongside guests that will surely make you smile as well!

See you next time!