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!

31. Chapter 31

PAINTED PRISON CHRONICLES

CHAPTER 31

1 YEAR PUBLICATION ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

Hello everyone. Life is pain, and my academic year didn't even start yet. Good grief... thanks to this I couldn't possibly make it in time for precise on year anniversary, September 7th. Not to mention when I was travelling, my computer broke, so I had to wait a week before being able to fix it and write anything for you... *sigh*... it is also possible that because new academic year does begin soon, writing next chapter will take me as much time as this one... hopefully this will not come to pass...

But enough ranting. It is with utmost pleasure that I welcome you to another chapter of this already one year old story. It is a rather special chapter, and its size probably reflects that (sorry for that, but I think this one might just be worth it). It is an important milestone, being a culmination of calm before the storm, preceding one of final battles.

Looking back, I am very pleased and feel immensely gratified by this yearly experience. I hope that throughout this year I managed to live up to not only your expectations, but also my own. What started of as story about Gokusai sisters and Touma finding themselves living together through twist of fate grew into something much bigger. Of course, writing doesn't come without challenges, but I can say with sincerity that writing Painted Prison Chronicles up until this point was a great pleasure, both because of the story itself and thanks to my interactions with you, dear readers. Thank you so much for supporting me till now, and I hope future of this story will be entertaining for you.

The Gokusai sisters remain the cornerstones of this story. I wanted to do them justice badly, and there is still much to do even now, when the story is much closer to conclusion than to beginning. But through this tale I am realizing many different goals when it comes to Toaru fiction. One of them includes of course writing the future where multiple girls (because many girls in Touma's harem are absolute gems of characters and it was just so sad for them to lose!) have children with Touma. I always wanted for Touma to have a big, loving, accepting family, since his own childhood was so lonely. Which we will get to in a moment...

Since this chapter is second longest (well, maybe not, but including the Appendix I made for the interested, it gets that spot) I probably should stop talking (writing) now, and get into Q&A. But as always, I am more than happy and eager to speak with you, both in regular comments and in the inbox. So write your soul away!

A bit of Q&A...

Nicko2545: As I explained in regards to previous chapter, Future Phase in NOT set in stone. It is a possible future, so actions of KNT can easily destroy it.

Commander Lace: I-Ching martial arts are my original invention, but are derived from divination techniques. Honestly, the secondary characters as focus are one of the beautiful sides of this story, so I thank you for appreciating it.

DhakaGrayMan: Intriguing idea. What crossovers did you have in mind?

AminadabBrulle: Maybe...

Zatil Hidayah Spensa: You would be right, but... what if KNT somehow manages to match it? More on that will be in this chapter...

KHVSFF: You got the gist of Future Phase rather well. It was designed for a win-win.

Fullbreaker: I mean... it's Nephthys we are talking about. We should thank every day that someone's mind concieved such a gorgeous design for a character. And with interesting personality to add to that. And I am sure there can be a way to make Othi grow, people dealt with worse than that in fanfics.

Jonnysebas Pardo Veliz: Well, it takes some mental fortitude to write for a long time. But I honestly have the excitement from it and it makes my mood better (because reality is often getting you down without a creative outlet). And I am sorry about Rakko. Truly am.

picato67: I thank you wholeheartedly for expressing your love for my series. I do hope that I evaluated Touma's PTSD to at least some satisfying level. I don't know if all of your wishes can be fufilled by the end of the story but majority of them is certainly doable ;)

Without further delay, let's begin!

Life in prison had a handful of benefits.

For example, you have quite some time for yourself, and some private place to reflect without anyone bothering you. A cell for yourself and freedom from annoying distractions of the outside world.

It was, in a way, an introvert paradise.

A paradise if said introvert was mentally and physically powerful, that is.

Both factors were not really problematic for Accelerator. He was powerful and he saw things extending far beyond what was expected from his age. However...

"Everything keep scattering away like scared mice." the boy groaned, flinching as the sun hit his face" It's good to know that they realize who is on the top of the food chain, but seriously, this pathetic display is downright annoying."

When Accelerator went into the shared area of the prison, everyone scattered away. He didn't do it all that often, because he could get food directly to his cell, but he would occasionally walk to through the facility to at least glimpse on the outside reality (despite the fact that he had all that he needed and more in the cell, which included one of the most advanced surveillance systems in the world).

That spineless cowardice and running away what probably made him grin in the past, during which he plunged himself in deep darkness... but now it only made him cringe and sigh.

No, if he was to be truthful... even back then, he hated those reactions even back then. If they weren't bad, he wouldn't want to get so powerful. To think that he didn't consider that something keeping people from attacking him will also keep them from approaching him at all...

Damn, for the most intelligent student in the City, he had low understanding of human relationships at the time. He got better at that, thanks to Last Order and others he lived with, but manipulating vectors was still much easier than comprehending people's absurdities.

He groaned. After countless scans and check-ups, he was finally allowed to go out for his one day clearance to see his family... yet somehow he was already irked up beyond belief through interactions he had on the way out.

"I might as well as use couple minutes to clear my head" he muttered, touching his electrode.

Vector Change was a straightforward yet terrifyingly versatile ability. It relied on the abundance of vectors throughout the universe to achieve vast array of effects. Manipulation of movement, light, friction, velocity, sound, pressure, gravity, radiation, electromagnetic forces, vibrations: all was on the table, the only limit being wielder's imagination and his knowledge of vectors.

Right now, Accelerator engaged in more mundane yet very useful application of the ability: he created a barrier to bounce off the soundwaves.

There was nothing compared to the blissful silence in which nothing except his own thoughts got to him. No distraction, no annoying chatter, not even the sound of his own footsteps. Only peace and tranquility.

However, all good things had to come to an end.

Suddenly, Accelerator was touched and forcibly turned around.

Normally, he would be one second away from flicking the person who did that out of existence with a motion of his finger. But then again...

The very fact that said person even dared to act so casually with him made him completely freeze in shock. What the hell?

The person who turned him around was a stately, young looking woman in the elegant dress combined with cardigan, and large brimmed hat protecting her from the sun. She had long brown hair and eyes, delicate facial features, and dignified gaze, now looking at Accelerator was a slight irritation. She was saying something but he couldn't hear her...

Until he undid the barrier and his ears were assaulted by the stream of words.

"Young man, why do you act like this? That is quite rude. I've been trying to get your attention, from quite some time now, and you were ignoring me. I was utmost polite, so I don't think I deserve this kind of treatement. I-"

"Alright, alright, stop for a moment" he snarled at her" I didn't hear you. You are not from around here, are you?"

The elegant lady placed a hand on her cheek.

"My my, is it so apparent?"

"I mean... no one from this City would be stupid enough to try to approach me like this. You don't know who I am?"

She eyed him carefully.

"Let me think, something seems slightly familiar... But more alarmingly, I see is that you are quite pale, even for an albino. Oh my, and what in the world is that hair? So many bangs and unruly too! You poor thing!"

"HUH?!"

Accelerator couldn't decide if he was pissed or shocked beyond belief. That woman, who looked as if she wouldn't be out of place in some kind of an ojou-sama gathering, conversed with him without fear, even made critical remarks. Not to mention, now that he looked at her face up close, her expressions, especially those of worry, seemed to be strangely familiar.

"Sure..."he replied slowly" can you show me your visitors ID?"

The woman looked at him in confusion but nevertheless handed him the laminated card.

"I got free time and finally managed to get clearance for time longer than a day. It is for family reasons, but I wanted to make it a surprise"

Accelerator looked at the visitor ID... and his eyes bulged out.

"Well, can you help me? I am looking Certain High School Dormitories, but I think I got away from the correct route"

The strongest esper wrestled with his thoughts for a moment, before gritting his teeth and nodding

"Tch, fine. Just... give me a minute, I have to speak with someone"

"Alright, but be a dear and don't take long"

Accelerator quickly got out of the woman's earshot, disappearing into the alleyway, and yelled angrily:

"QLIPOTH PUZZLE!"

There was a dull sound and a demon materialized with a yelp, landing in the pile of trash.

"Y-Y-Yes, master! What do you desire from-"

"I think I explicitly told you to notify me if someone of value crosses the border! I am not going through every single clearance after all! Were you too busy with gossip magazines again?! "

"H-Huh? N-No, I surely wasn't! I-I was on duty this entire time, of course!"

"Then how do you explain her?!" Accelerator motioned to the distance, besides his back.

The jellyfish demon looked through his arm, just as the boy spoke a name.

"Huh? But isn't this..."

"Yes, I am afraid so"

"B-B-But, despite that connection, she's not bad, isn't she? Is she an enemy? A spy?"

"No, worse..." Accelerator said, slowly turning around, with a face that was absolutely done with the day" A mother!"

(MEANWHILE)

Touma awoke in the darkness. Or at the very least, in the greyness of dawn, resulting in the shadow getting mixed with incoming light.

He felt... lightheaded. As if he wasn't really asleep through the last couple of hours.

The room, apartment, and the city itself was quiet. But it wasn't a calm silence stemming from peaceful relaxation. No, it seemed like all the life got frozen in terror in one single moment. As if all that was out there took a deep breath and never let it out.

It was the silence of death.

That silence was so deep and the sound so absent that Touma's own heart resounded like a tolling bell in his chest. Like a funeral bell on the wasteland of desolation.

However, he knew that a sound waking up. A sound, terrifying in it's singularity throughout the void of stillness.

Someone screamed. Someone screamed in that distant darkness.

Shadows moved and Touma realized that he wasn't alone.

He slowly got up from bed and started walking towards the lone swivel chair.

As he did so, he noticed that there were visible footsteps, going from the bed towards the chair, even though he was sure he didn't go there before.

"Did you enjoy your little test journey?"

The chair rotated and the boy that looked like Touma, but wasn't him in the slightest.

Kamijou No Touma smiled, appearing relaxed but strong, like a puma waiting to pounce, as he sat on the chair.

"You left me alone for a considerable amount of time" Touma commented." Did you chicken out and realize that the fighting is pointless?"

"Far from it. I've witnessed all of your pathetic efforts. You didn't even notice then... The greatest battles are won through patience. By needlessly exposing myself before time comes, I would give you time to strategize."

"So you are waiting to strike me by surprise?"

"I guess you can call it that. False security works wonders. I know that you are more tired before our battle even began"

In one moment, Touma swung his arm. It glowed yellow and the spot in which KNT sat was obliterated by the laser-like lightning.

"I am not the one to boast, but don't underestimate everyone's efforts to strike you do-"

"As I was saying, I am well aware of your doings. However, all of this should drive you to one question..."

He was still there. They were back as if nothing happened, even though Touma was certain he conducted the attack.

"If you got so powerful and was pushed to such limits, going far beyond your usual fighting style befitting a normal human..."

He stood up and grabbed Touma by the wrist, grinning and digging his hand into his skin, as pink-and-green eyes shone in the darkness.

"... then just how powerful your enemy... that is, me... got throughout this time? Aren't you curious, inferior me?"

Touma's arm turned into flames as he swung it at his opponent, managing to free himself.

But then...

His head was sliced off... but before it hit the floor-

"Let's do it again"

He was... fine. Touma frantically checked his head and chest, before falling to his knees and to the floor. He tried to got up, but his body could not coordinate itself.

"What's that?" he heard a smooth voice over himself, before he was pulled up by his hair" Did the prospect of me killing you made you lose your composure? I thought you had almost all of the powers of your Dragon Strike at your disposal. And I didn't even truly enact that version of your destiny. The very possibility of dying is sometimes scarier and inflicts deeper scars that the proper physical wound. Taunting, tormenting, inflicting mental trauma... it's the foreplay of the true conflict. Remember this before we meet on the battlefield of our self next time..."

Those cold eyes looking at Touma were now pink, with lime green irises. Same colour was the arm, that seemed to be set aflame. His enemy put a finger on his half-smiling lips. String of crimson, in flux between solid, liquid, and gas, extended from the fingertip, flickering in the air.

"... even if you managed to somewhat tame those lizards, there is much more to Imagine Breaker than you would ever dream. No one, not you, nor Index, nor even Aleister... really get the core of this power. No, not the power... it's far greater than just mere ability. I am its incarnate. I am its pure emanation, beyond goodness and evil of your humanity. Imagine Breaker was made from sublime substance, as the everlasting instrument born from highest wisdom, combined with primordial might in the unending, divine vision. It is an imprint of the purest of phases. Nothing was made in all of creation, excepting the Eternal, before its making. That's what it means to behold its potential. Do you even comprehend what you were born with? What you experience as misfortune and bad luck is but an unpolished fraction of its true might, one string of the thread that might unravel the fabric of destiny itself. You saw the future? Had fun watching your wives and kids? I suppose that was meant to motivate you. Unfortunately, it will only give you more pressure... which works for me. After all, if I kill you in our confrontation, this hypothetical future that you surely grown to love will never come to be"

More and more strings appeared in the air, surrounding them in a spider web that seemed to pulsate and vibrate in a steady rhytm.

Almost like…

"Yes" KNT foreseen Touma's thoughts" It's the heartbeat. The heartbeat of destiny and fate. I wouldn't underestimate implications behind it, even if it does sound a little on the nose"

Touma swallowed. The mysterious strings looked to much like blood for his liking. He gazed up, managing to clenching his fist in defiance.

"If their fate is really in my hands... then losing to you is not an option"

"Perhaps..." the cold smile widened as the fire within the eyes of KNT got brighter" However, the problem is... I am the fate ! There is no fate for you beyond me!"

In the next moment, Touma felt his own hands reaching for his own throat...

He began to strangle himself. He wanted to stop, but for some reason, he was compelled to do so.

He managed to notice couple more of the flickering threads, as his adversary raised his hand.

"See you in the day of your death. I will make sure it will be enjoyable for me"

He began to chuckle slightly. Even if the laughter got louder, it never lost its menacing undertone. And suddenly Touma didn't know who was choking who, or whose lips were laughing. He only knew that he couldn't breathe and that he had to break free-

Kamijou Touma woke up, laying on the floor of his bedroom.

His hands were so tightly clasped on his own throat that he had trouble loosening the hold. And he was sure that it was the sound of laughter that came of his own lips to snapped him back to reality.

Touma broke into loud coughing fit, shakily standing up.

"That... bastard..." he wheezed out, trying to regain his breath.

"Touma..." Index appeared in the door" Is everything alright?"

He wiped off the sweat of his brow.

"Don't worry about me Index. I am fine now"

She pouted at him and marched towards him, before pulling him into the hug

"I-Index-san?"

"Touma... they say that trust is the two-way road, isn't it? I am changing for you, I really am. So why do you still not want to involve me." she said, her voice trembling slightly" Why do you pretend everything is fine? There were times in which I managed to help you, and you didn't object. So why do you try to be strong for me now? You know, Touma... you know my feelings for you, don't you?"

The boy's eyes widened at that, as the girl shook his head.

"But I was too arrogant all that time. I didn't take to account your own feelings and settled for an option that would please me and give me an easy excuse. I will never do that. I want to give you space. But please, if I can do anything, just talk to me"

Touma sighed, putting his hand over Index's head

"Index, I never, ever doubted your willingness to do the right thing. And I certainly never hid anything out of doubts for your abilities. But when you asked me if I follow you to the depths of hell, I became bent on keeping that promise. I always treated it very seriously. No, more than that, I wanted to keep you away from that hell in the first place. You suffered so much, Index. Even then I began to realize it. The reason I am trying to keep you away from danger, the reason I don't want to involve you… is because you changed my life. You opened up my eyes and caused me to see the world through the entirely new perspective. Our bond is by no means ideal, and there are surely things we both have to work through. However, that doesn't change a fact that our shared life is extremely precious to me. I don't want you to ever be hurt nor sad when my actions could possibly prevented it."

Index smiled at him with a bit of sadness mixed within the seemingly happy sight.

"Touma… you took the words out of my mouth. And… I know that this boy… your look-alike from Windsor Castle… is not who you are nor what you stand for. I just want you to stay with me. And for that, I am willing to lend you anything that you might need in order to defeat the enemy. In order for us to continue our life. I will strive to communicate better, to fight better, to be better for you… so if you manage to keep me into your doubts and joys… I think it would be enough for me now"

"I kind of get it, but… we both wanted to see the other unharmed. Can we really find the solution that pleases both of us?"

Index was silent for a moment, before she took a deep breath and done something extraordinary. Standing up on on her toes, she did something which started like a small bite but ended more like a kissing nibble on Touma's cheek, which actually made his body shiver unexpectedly. The girl blushed at her own gesture of sympathy, but stood her ground, having even more of the boy's attention.

"It is possible. We just need to look after one another and do our best so we both make it alive and okay. And the best way to do so is for us to work together. I can't imagine my life without you, Touma. Don't you think that I wouldn't be equally devastated if something happened to you behind my back? You are not the only one who wants to save and preserve the lives of ones you love."

Touma actually felt teary eyed for a moment.

"You really… aren't the same girl that I saw on the balcony all that time ago. I am sorry for not noticing and appreciating that change enough. I am greatful that you appreciate my thoughts and feelings too. Back then, it was very complicated. I just lost my memories and-

"Sssh! I already know. And I think if we take it slowly, it will be much better. I have only a little bit more of my own memories, remember? Maybe, for all that we have been through before meeting each other… maybe it is okay to be lost. But it's far better to be lost together than alone. Will you tell me what is happening with your other side?

"Yes, I will. Thank you for being this mature. Honestly, who are you? Is the Index I knew really changed that much?"

"Hmm, Hmm, Hmm, that is just the power of the mature woma-"

*Growl*

Index's stomach made the loud noise, so unexpected that it made both of them jump.

"B-But still… can you give me food?"

"Heh… some things never change, do they?"

"J-Just do it and don't tease me about it"

Touma went on to prepare breakfast for the eagerly waiting nun

"By the way, where is Othinus?"

"I think she is outside. She wanted time to think so she went to do some raven flying"

"It's terribly late… it's almost noon. I slept that badly because of those nightmares… thank god it's weekend. Index, stop eating bread alone, the food will be ready before you kno-"

There was a notification sound.

Touma looked at his phone… before blankly switching it off, turning it on and then looking once again.

It was a group chat. It was established some time ago between him and the sisters, to improve the communication and help coordinate their daily life. Amazora had a lot of fun messing with everyone's nicknames at regular basis but it looked like right now, he could at least recognize that it was Kaibi who writing to him.

But regardless…

"They are with... what?!" he screamed into the phone.

"Touma? Is something wrong?"

"Index… I am sorry but I must go now. The breakfast is practically ready, just take it."

"Touma! You can't just-"

And then he was gone.

"Mooou! How can we even talk about me changing if Touma won't stop charging outside on his own?! I am going to give you a piece of my mind. Yes, that's what I am gonna do. But first... something tasty to fill my tummy."

(SOME TIME EARLIER)

To understand why Touma got so worked up about Kaibi's message, let's go back in time a little bit.

Accelerator was slowly going over his limit. He was a Board Chairman and #1 esper, not a tour guide.

The elegant woman by his side was admiring sights in the city, asking about many things. The worst part for him was that no matter how he tried he could not get away. He had a feeling that even if he used his powers to escape, she would still somehow make him unable to depart.

That stalemate lasted for a while, until... he spotted someone he could easily hand the burd... the guest, over.

Three familiar sisters were walking down the street, and Accelerator grinned at the sight.

"Oi! Small, Medium, and Large!"

Amazora, Kaibi, and Rikuri froze in their tracks.

"I am not small!"

"Now, now, Amazora, by getting angry at something like that, you basically prove someone's point"

"What's your problem, you a-ACCELERATOR?! It's you! But why do you look so-"

"SHUT IT! FIRST ONE WHO LAUGHS WILL-"

"Young man, language. And ...who are those ladies?"

"Someone that will gladly accompany on the rest of the day or show the way to your destination. They are very well acquainted with one you are looking for too"

"Hmm..." the woman gazed over the girls and smiled lightly" What a charming trio of girls. You are sisters, correct?"

"Y-Yes. I am Gokusai Rikuri, those are my younger sisters, Kaibi and Amazora. I must say, I love the way you look too"

"Thank you, it's nice when someone can take notice of effort one puts into looking presentably fashionable"

"It's nice to meet you, too..." Kaibi said, before raising an eyebrow" But why did Accelerator want us to be with you? And... who are you, exactly?"

Speaking of Accelerator, it seemed that the boy managed to get away this time, as there was no trace of him. Regardless of that, the woman tilted her head before letting out a small chuckle.

"Oh, right, where are my manners. When it comes to my business here, I am merely a mother who visits the city. I wanted to see my son, even if for a moment, and deliver something to him. My name is Kamijou Shiina. It's a pleasure"

Even if it wasn't evident that the Gokusai sisters were outwardly similar, jaws of all three of them dropped in the exact exaggerated manner, even those of mature Rikuri or collected Kaibi.

"Ka..."

"... mi..."

"...jou?!"

(...)

"And so, I ditched them." Accelerator sighed, looking at Last Order and Misaka Worst" But we still ended up coming to the same place later on. Tch, I give up..."

And indeed, he and Misaka clones were coincidentally sitting in the same dinner as the mother and three sisters.

Misaka Worst was snickering, which caused Accelerator to look at her with a dangerous glare.

"I told you to can it!"

"Misaka can't because she is unable to believe just how stupid you look!"

Accelerator's normally unruly hair was tidied up, to the point that it almost looked like a bobcut.

"That woman did it to me! She said that I looked malnourished and actually suggested to buy me food, before she did this to my hair. And no matter what I am doing, it can't go back to how it was. Maybe I will use my ability on it..."

"To be honest, Misaka is surprised that you even allowed her to touch you like this"

Accelerator groaned slightly, before answering

"You know how you exploited my trauma regarding killing the sisters to stop me from attacking you? Well, I just... I don't know... it would be... wrong, I guess. That's hero's mother. After everything that happened... it would leave sick taste in my mouth."

"Or maaaaybe... you don't have a mother figure so you actually want some hugsie-wuggsies. You actually want a mommy, Accele- eh?"

The boy reached forward, and slammed Misaka Worst's forehead into the table, putting enough force to cause her to yelp in pain.

As for Last Order...

"WOOOOOAH! This is Saviour's mother?! She is so pretty, Misaka Misaka squeals in marvel! Let's go say hellooooo, says Misaka Misaka about to run off in excitement!"

Accelerator grabbed small girl so she ended up running in place with extended hands.

"This is too much of a drag..."

Meanwhile, couple of tables away...

"So I suppose you are my son's..."

Three girls looked at each other.

"Is saying sisters and future wifeys in one sentence that weird?" Amazora mouthed slightly to Rikuri.

"I suppose it is. And I didn't think you would even consider that, Amazora-chan. And don't use the word wifey. It diminishes our credibility as his potential partners"

"Eeeeh? But wifey sounds cute..."

"Both of you, behave yourselves"

Believe it or not, Kaibi was actually quite nervous. Trying to not let her emotions show, she answered Shiina.

"Who we are to him is still forming up. But we came through a lot and I think it is safe to assume we grow quite close in recent times... so close in fact that we consider him our family. A sworn siblings of sorts"

Shiina stopped drinking tea and looked at the trio, which was nervous (yet also somewhat emboldened after last statement).

"Is that so? Well, even if you only were his friends... I thank you for being there for him. I always worried that he will be alone, even though Touma-san is such a good boy. So as his mother, I am grateful to everyone who appreciates him... and would give some talking to anyone who belittles him..."

The sisters almost recoiled at the coldness of last words.

"Me and my husband did everything in our power, but we could not truly shield him from the cruelty of this world. It still struck Touma-san... and yet even after all the times he suffered, he still smiled at me and Touya-san... you may think of me as too dignified to show emotions but my heart cried out and twisted at the sight... oh dear..."

She sighed and put the teacup down.

"Forgive me for getting so sentimental"

"No, no. If anything..." Rikuri smiled, playing with her hair" We would love to hear more. Touma-san is still so mysterious to us"

"Hmm, that's not entirely out of question. However... it's not really a nice story"

"All the more reason. We want to truly understand when we need to be there for him. We owe him that much and more"

At the same time, there was a loud crash and Touma came sliding inside of the dinner, before running to their table.

Shiina looked in surprise at her panting son.

"Ara, Touma-san, what a surprise. I was actually looking for you"

"Mom, what are you doing in the city?"

"You sound like you are not happy to see me"

"W-What? No, that's not it... it's just that it is a surprise to me. And that you are with the girls..."

"Touma-san, it is regrettable that you take so much after your father in that specific area... I hope that you are following my teachings and being a sincere gentleman to the ladies. Otherwise some pretty... unsightly happenings may occur yet in this generation..."

Touma actually shrunk down before the dark smile before his eyes as Shiina seemed to remember something from the past.

He didn't think of that before, but he saw nearly 40 children from different versions of reality that he was the father of. If that was the case, that would make Shiina a paternal grandmother of all of them, but he wasn't ready to tell her that (nor did he know how to explain it even if he somehow wanted)

"O-Of course, mother. W-Why would you think any different"

"Delightful. Oh, white boy, come here. I know you are here too"

"Ghhh?!"

"White b-... Accelerator?! What are you do-"

"HELLO SAVIOUR'S MOTHER!"

Last Order pounced forward and embraced Shiina without embarrassment.

"Oh, and who we have here?" she said, prying the small girl away" Oh... you look just like Mikoto-san... only younger, that is. Which means you must be one of those clones people were talking about"

"That is correct, Misaka Misaka beams at the Saviour's mother recognition. So you know the original too?"

"If you mean Misaka Mikoto-san, we've met before when Touma-san and Index-san ate lunch with us."

The sisters looked at Touma questioningly, but he only mouthed 'tell you later'. However, that was when Accelerator came closer, frowning at something.

"Wait a god damn moment... you know of the clones, right?"

"I wouldn't say I know a whole lot... but I heard of them. Why do you ask?"

"Because if that's the case, how the hell do you not recognize me? You clearly didn't know who I was. And that trial was because I committed atrocities against those clones"

Shiina nodded in understanding, before bowing apologetically.

"That explains it. When that trial was on TV, I got back from paragliding and was so tired that I fell asleep in front of the TV, before I could actually see the accused. And I am a heavy sleeper"

"WHAT?"Accelerator demonstrated his most exasperated look yet" That's like... watching a kaiju movie without seeing kaiju itself. That's majorly cut out of context. Who does that?"

"Is it that important? Oh, you are invested in this because you are Touma-san's friend?"

Touma and Accelerator slowly looked at each other. Montage of thougts regarding various encounters, especially in the first one, played in their heads.

"You are friends, right?"

"Yes"

"No"

"I mean, we know each other..."

"More like acquaintances..."

"There was this one time we had difference of opinion and fought..."

"More than once actually..."

"But since then we...emm... grew into respect?..."

"Yeah... he is annoying, but gets job done, so..."

Both boys felt tangible awkwardness. Shiina smiled and raised her hand.

"No need to continue, I've seen enough. I know how boys can be with admitting the friendship..."

"You really hear what you want to hear, huh?!" Accelerator growled at Touma's mother.

"But Touma-san, I thought you knew better. To fight a cripple..."

"I AM STRONGEST ESPER, I AM NOT... WELL, I AM BUT IT'S NOT... WORST, STOP FUCKING LAUGHING!"

Misaka Worst burst into howling laughter, practically bending in half.

"Okay, now you are clearly joking. Look at my hair and eyes. You really didn't know me?"

"Ara mah, I thought you bleached it or something along those lines. Like at those cute sisters here. Fashion trends of current generation can be confusing sometimes."

"Wahahahahah! SHE THOUGHT DADDY WAS IN SOME EDGY BOY BAND! THIS MISAKA CAN'T WITH THIS WOMAN, SHE LOVES HER!"

"Is everything alright with your friend?"

"Yes, she is just a bitch, and was made in a lab. Sometimes I wonder if her brain wasn't actually expired back then!"

"I want to spend more time with you, says Misaka Misaka eager to be with the mom of one her most favourite people."

"Oh, really? Oh my, it seems that you really captured attention of many Touma-san."

'You have no idea' both Accelerator and the Gokusai sisters thought at the same time.

(SOME TIME LATER)

"What a beautiful place you girls have. It is very stylish" Shiina said, looking around the apartment.

"Actually, it's our place, but also-" Amazora began to speak, before she was silenced by both Kaibi and Touma.

"Sssh! Mom can't know that I live with you" Touma whispered into her ear" You all want to keep living together with me, right?"

Amazora and Kaibi nodded, with the former looking at Touma with eyes gleaming with hopeful adoration.

"Onii-chan... are we that important to you that you don't want to leave us?"

Touma actually got a little flustered at that comment, before replying

"Yeah... of course, I have Index and Othinus... but... I think I would be a little lonely without you. We are supposed to be family. Right, little sister?"

Amazora leapt into his arms with a happy squeal. Kaibi coughed and seemed that she was torn between also pursuing attention from Touma and keeping her pride intact. However, it was evident that she looked with expecting eyes at the boy, who sighed.

"It wouldn't be the same without all of you, Kaibi-san. No exclusions"

"Hmm, that's what I think, you moron"

She smiled in approval, her cheeks reddening slightly.

In that moment, Rikuri and Shiina, who were walking around the apartment, returned. Besides them, Last Order was also present in the room. She was so vehement on staying with Touma and Shiina that Accelerator decided to leave her for a moment while he reunited with Yomikawa and Yoshikawa alongside Worst, with intent to pick up the small girl in a bit.

"Touma-san, would you mind coming here?" Shiina said, motioning at the small suitcase that arrived not so long ago" I have something to give you. We... your father and myself that is... were doing some cleaning in the house and stumbled upon some of your stuff from the time you were about to leave for Academy City. There were many reminders of your early years, but one of them was really special and I just... felt compelled to travel here and give to you personally. A mother shares special kind of feelings for gestures like this."

She got up and walked to her son, before handing him a piece of paper. It was an envelope.

"Girls, this is for Touma-san alone. If he wants, he can share it later, but let's give him space." Shiina waved at the sisters and Last Order" In the meantime, I can share something with you too. Touma-san, you can go to the guest room"

Touma smiled awkwardly, realizing that the 'guest room' was his own bedroom.

"Mom, but... this letter... is it for me? Who the hell would write a letter for me so many years ago?"

Shiina smiled before walking back into living room.

"Isn't it obvious? Yourself, of course. With a little help on the wording"

Still confused, Touma closed the door to his bedroom and sat on the bed.

He took out the paper of the envelope and unfolded it. His eyes widened, as he began to read, feeling his heart well with intense emotions with each new sentence.

To me in ten years from now,

I am writing this letter after I came back from pre-school with the lots of help from dad. Today my backpack was thrown into the puddle, and my books were destroyed. When I was coming back, I fell to the ditch and was later covered in paint by some of people from my group. Mom and dad keep smiling, but I know those smiles don't look real.

I don't know why it keeps happening. All I want is for everyone to get along. I didn't do anything, so why they keep throwing things at me? Why they keep waiting at me when I am left alone? I don't know... but I don't want my mommy and daddy to feel bad.

Mom gave me some nice band-aids. She is smiling but I know she feels bad. I want my mommy to smile, so I have to be strong. I may be little, but I can get that much. I love my mom and dad and they keep telling me that I am a good boy. But if I am like that, why is everyone else mad at me? I see the way everyone else look at me. They are angry and scared. And it makes me so sad. I want to know. I want to know why everyone is mad at me. I want to get along with everybody and make friends. But even if I can't...

Just because I don't know doesn't mean that I will give up. I don't want to fail because of something I didn't do. So, me in ten years from now...

Are you happy right now? Or maybe you don't have a strength to cry anymore? Are you with someone now? Or maybe you are lonely?

In the beginning people joked that I simply have bad luck. But I know that there is something more to this. I want to explain to people that I want to be their friend. That I am not dangerous. I am just Touma. But I have a feeling that this is not that simple. In that time that is between you and me, something terrible can happen to us. I want to say that I am not scared at all.

Yet I can't lie. I am alone. Alone, and very, very scared.

But I know that I have to go on. Because thoughts of anyone going through the same makes me sad. And I can't make mommy and daddy sad if I give up. So I will keep smiling, keep going, because this is what I want to do.

Older me, I don't know what will happen with me. I will do my very best to smile and stand tall. I don't know how you are right now. But... if you ever feel sad or alone, I believe that you can do it. I want to dream that one day, I will be smiling alongside everyone else. I want to believe that. If I can dream of one thing, I don't want to hurt. So, older me, please. Even if you forget this, remember that this dream will always live in our heart. Please remember how sad it is when it hurts. How much I don't want it to continue. Please, never give up. Smile even if it's awful. Because I believe in you.

Even if whole world hates me for some reason, I want to believe in you, in us. That one day, you will be able to have friends who truly care, even if that bad luck doesn't get better. That one day, you will look back and smile. One day, it will be worth it. And if you one day get some friends... if you find nice people who will love you... do not ever lose them. Older me, always keep that in your heart.

Those angry eyes... I am afraid, older me. I want to be understood. I want to be seen. But some days when other boys kick me, push me, or destroy my things, I wish for those people, if they are somewhere in the world, to appear... I want to believe, I choose to believe, that a day will come when a good thing that will change my life falls out of the sky and changes everything. It's one good dream I want to dream.

Older me, let me be brave. I will do my best, but I am small and weak. If you are reading this, you may be strong enough to keep us from pain and have enough heart to actually keep this from affecting anyone else. Please, whatever you do, don't let that awful feeling fall on anyone else. I wish for you to carry on what I can't do now.

One thing I don't want to be is to turn out like the thing people see me as. I am not a monster. Please, don't ever be one.

Be kind. And even if you don't want to go on... I will always believe in you. Please, be there for everyone in my place. Find wonderful friends and be happy. Just this will be cool.

Till I see me from your own eyes,

Kamijou Touma.

Touma finished reading the letter. On the edge of his consciousness, he noted that the handwriting seemed to belong to his father. It was obvious that the letter was dictated and Kamijou Touya took the liberty to write the meaning in the clearer, mature words. Apparently, Touma's parents relented to their son's unusual request even if they were somewhat disturbed by Touma's beyond-the-years musings.

The meaning of its young sender was clear nonetheless.

"Gggggh..."

Touma clenched his fist, his lips twisting, as he sat on the bed with one hand covering his eyes.

He felt deep sadness and nostalgia. To him, that message was more than just rendering of his younger self's words through the writing of his father.

Although Touma learned a lot about working together with others, he still opposed fully dragging others into his problems when he had a choice. He desired to deal with Kamijou no Touma by himself if he had a chance, particularly because he felt partially guilty that the dark-minded emanation existed to begin with.

But he was tired on begin on high alert for so long. He was doing his best to keep his strength and motivation up, but with the lack of proper rest and his other self deliberately toying with him, the draining mind game was taking its toll.

Now however... this situation gave him something to remind him of what he was fighting for.

Again, this was more than mere letter from the past. It could be a vestige of the message beyond the grave.

Kamijou Touma lost his memories of nearly 16 years of his life. That included, of course, writing (or at the very least dictating thoughts for) the letter that was in front of his eyes. Kamijou Touma of the past, the one that legacy he had to carry on, was to never come back.

But even from beyond oblivion, this message through time served to encourage Touma through his doubts.

"I wish I could say, even if it's pointless..." he muttered" that everything got better since I arrived here. But I would probably be lying"

He traced the paper with his fingers.

"From that point, you were to be alone and suffer even more. I... I don't know if I could look you in the eyes right now. I don't know if I will manage to achieve your... our... dream. But at the very least, I can carry on protecting others. I am... still afraid. But to be brave is not to be unafraid. It's TO BE afraid and still doing what needs to be done. In that, I think, in that alone... I didn't stray. I can't leave others in need, I can't abandon people in the need of saving... But that aside..."

Tear drops started to fall from behind the eye-covering hand as Touma smiled.

"That is the best damn thing I could do for myself in the long time. While fighting for others, I can only go so far. But now... it's personal. Now I am fighting for my own dream too... don't worry, younger me. I will take on your pain and shatter it to pieces. That bastard wants to turn that possible future into shackles instead of a blessing, as if it was a gamble in the poker game. But thanks to you, I will never let that trick me. I know why it was showed to me, and I remember why I want to protect it. Not only because I love to see everyone smiling in that bright future, but also because I always wanted to have friends and family. I know it may be selfish, but if that selfishness, that need of belonging and not being treated as some curse serves to save others lives and preserve their happiness... then I will keep it close and use it as my springboard."

He slowly lowered his hand, before drying his eyes and smiling.

"There is a lot to risk and I am not even sure if after all of this I am ready for this fight. But if this works, there is someone out there waiting for me. All of those kids showed in that convergence of future timelines... I want to meet them. I want to love them. I want to give each and every one childhood filled with love and understanding. And maybe, when I arrive there, I will find love as well."

He recalled what two of his daughters told him in one his visions of the possible future.

'Othinus showed you the perfect world, that would collapse if you lived. But this world will not exist if you perish. That's why you should live. That's all we need you to do'

"Damn right I will. I will kick that bastard's ass... and make that future a reality!"

(10 MINUTES EARLIER, IN THE LIVING ROOM)

"It's good to see you again, miss Shiina" Index, who just returned from quick walk meant to locate Touma, greeted the young looking mother.

"My my, Index-san. You look good, it seems that you've been well since we last seen each other."

In truth, Index and Shiina did not see each other since Daihaseisai festival a while back. While Index wasn't giving it much of a thought back then, more focused on Touma and Mikoto, right now, as her feelings for Touma matured a bit, she was actually determined to make a good impression on the graceful mother.

Despite her high-lady demeanor, Shiina turned into rather caring in her own way. She salvaged a candy for Last Order from her bag, who started licking it with content expression, as well as small band-aids.

"Your legs, arms, and cheek are bruised, little one"

"Ah... right. She tends to run without a care... and trip just as much. Such a troublemaker she is"

Shiina motioned at Amazora.

"Come here, I will put those on you"

After a moment, small band-aids were put in place.

"There. That's all better"

"Amazora, what do you say?" Rikuri reprimanded her sister.

Amazora smiled back at Shiina.

"Thank you, Shiina-san"

"You are quite welcome, dear. In fact, with all those bandages, you remind me of my son when he was small"

Amazora's eyes, glinting like small pink gems, shone even brighter and then... seemed to turn into miniature hearts.

"Onii-chan's mother said that I am just like... like... oni-chaaaaaaaaan?!"

Amazora made a loud squeal and promptly fell into the floor with a goofy grin on her face.

"Eh heh heh..."

"Ahm... is Amazora-san alright?" Shiina asked with concern.

"Yes, she will be alright. Comparing her to Toum... Kamijou-san, is the biggest form of happiness for her. And it was even more amplified since it was you who said it" Rikuri explained with a small smile of her own.

"I see... once again, it's great that such lovely ladies are here to set him straight. It's a good boy, but sometimes needs someone to stop him from being reckless"

"I couldn't agree more" Kaibi and Index said at the same time, before looking at each other, equally surprised with their vehement expression of worry whenever Touma got in trouble.

Shiina sighed, putting her hand on the cheek.

"That tendency of his to get into trouble never got better with age. Dear me, it would be great if his wife in the future had the patience of some divine being."

'Wife?' all the girls, except Last Order blissfully engrossed in the candy, thought at that.

They never thought about that, but in truth, their love for Touma, whenever he will feel the time is right to respond to it, could have a repercussions for the less than foreseeable future...

Like... dating, engagement, marriage, having children, and growing older together.

To think of the sound of that...

Kamijou Amazora

Kamijou Kaibi

Kamijou Rikuri

Amazora giggled giddily. Kaibi blushed heavily and cupped her face with into her hands. Rikuri put a finger on the lips that stretched into sultry smirk.

Index wasn't faring much better, her mind going back to heart to heart talk she recently had with Touma, and sending her heart into the state of a total mess.

"Hmm? Everyone suddenly spaced out and got red, says Misaka Misaka, musing at the strange sight before her eyes." Last Order commented, which snapped Rikuri out her trance and compelled her to ask Shiina a question.

"So... Kamijou-san was a troublemaker? Since you compared our Amazora to him..."

"My my, don't be so formal, Rikuri-san. I can appreciate when someone holds oneself properly, but it is obvious that you would rather refer to my son by name. As long as everyone behaves appropriately, I see no objection to that. As for your question... I wouldn't say Touma-san was a troublemaker. He was a kind and polite child, sometimes even too nice. He didn't exactly made trouble, it was more as if trouble always found him... I am aware how strange that sounds but that's just what my feelings are telling me. But he was always getting himself battered and bruised, and so it was always better to have bandages at home. Hmm... I think..."

Shiina bent down and searched for something in her suitcase. After locating it, she took it her hands and walked to the sofa. Pulling her dress up, so it wouldn't wrinkle, she sat down and motioned at all the girls in the room.

"Please, come here. I would like to show you something."

All 5 girls gathered on and around the sofa, looking at the book. It was thick, deep blue volume with golden letters and cover made from the material that seemed to emulate leather.

Shiina opened it to reveal the big letters: KAMIJOU & TATSUGAMI MEMORIAE VOL 9.

"It is something that my husband and myself treasure beyond anything else... oh dear, excuse me..."

After the haste apology, Shiina sneezed into quickly pulled out handkerchief. The moment she opened the book, a big cloud of dust billowed up and assaulted her nostrils. A thick plume of small particles still danced around in the rays of the sun permeating the room. After Shiina and the girls stopped coughing and waving the dust away, the Kamijou matriarch shook her head.

"Oh dear, my apologies. It appears that I was not as throughout with my cleaning as I thought when Touya-san got it down from the attic. Anyway, please take a look at it."

"What are we looking at?"

"A photo book. One of many, containing the memories of Kamijou and Tatsugami families."

"Tatsu... gami?"

"Yes. That's my maiden name. My brother has a daughter that's the age of Amazora-san"

"Tatsugami... Tatsugami... awww... where did I hear that before?" Amazora pouted, tapping on her brow with a finger.

Shiina slowly turned the pages. Some where the photos of locations such as houses and neighbourhoods, others depicted family gatherings or holiday trips. Also...

"A lot of those is from bird's eye view. Why?"

"Oh, that's because my hobby is paragliding. I love gliding in the air and observing everything from there. Up there, you gain the distance for lot of mundane things and it allows you to clear your head. Do you find it strange?"

"No, not in the slightest!" Now it was turn for Rikuri's eyes to lit up" I am a drone enthusiast, so I can completely understand the enchantment of high altitudes!"

"I can appreciate your enthusiasm, Rikuri-san. Oh, this is the photo of when Touma was born-"

"KYAH! He looks so cute!" both Index and Rikuri squealed so loudly that Kaibi winced slightly. However...

'He... does look cute' she admitted to herself with a blush.

"My husband is a bit of a hoarder, both in terms of souvenires and photos, so there are quite the few of them. This is where he first learned to walk... his first tooth... his first day at school... our first shared holiday with his cousin Otohime..."

"AAAAH! Now I remember! Tatsugami was the surname of that sneaky thief of a girl who phoned onii-chan!" Amazora suddenly growled out, to the bewilderment of the other parties.

"Misaka can't believe how nice saviour looked as a child, says Misaka Misaka with happy face" Last Order said, her eyes jumping from one photo to the other.

"He looks glad, but also..." Index mused, looking at various moments in which small Touma was captured. "How should I put it..."

"His eyes. He has such sad and mature eyes for his age"

Shiina's arms shivered, almost unnoticeably.

"Shiina-san..." Kaibi asked, deep in thought" There is something that bothers me about this book..."

"Yes? What is it?"

"The dust" Kaibi motioned at the remnants of the particles in the air" If this is such an important and treasured book, why did it gather so much dust? Why was it hidden away? Shiina-san... that book wasn't opened in a long time, wasn't it? Why is that?"

Shiina sighed, lowering her gaze and biting her lip, before exhaling and nodding, with her eyes much sadder than before.

"You are very perceptive young lady, Kaibi-san. You are not mistaken. Despite the value those photos, I couldn't revisit them often. I can't bring out the good memories without invoking... nightmare of that time"

"What happened, asks Misaka Misaka with the expression of worry."

Shiina's looked back at the photos.

"Me and my husband got together after some time of knowing one another. We were overjoyed when I got pregnant and eventually gave birth to Touma-san. And even more so when he started to grow up. He was always a kind spirit, a good boy that tried to always get along with others. We did our best to raise him and honestly he never made problems out of his own will. However... accidents occurred around him. From relatively minor ones, like someone slipping on banana peel, to major ones, like car accidents. It was true that the quantity of the occurrences with Touma-san present was high. But soon enough people began to associate him as the cause of their problems! In one moment, my boy was thrown into complete isolation and heartbreaking loneliness! From early age, everyone save our family avoided him and ignored his existence... and that was the better scenario"

She started to shake, but the gathered girls, listening soundlessly as if hypnotized, soon understood that it wasn't from sadness. The face of that dignified woman didn't show it yet, but Kamijou Shiina was trembling from cold anger.

"Otherwise... they would bully and torment him in all sorts of ways. Destroyed books, drowning in the toilet, excrements in the shoes... of which I learned much later. Name a way of bullying and my son was at some point experiencing it. Others believed that they needed to purge and isolate Touma-san, for his so called misfortune would infect them... they called him a monster. They would say he is an abomination and a plague that must be stopped at all cost. One time, I wanted to pick Touma-san from kindergarten, but he didn't show up. And when I went around, looking for him, I saw something so terrible that it still haunts me to this day. He was surrounded in the back alley, thrown against the wall, and everything that could be found was thrown at him by some kids. Rocks, branches, spoiled food... When I appeared a group of adults, parents of those kids if I recall correctly, seemed to arrive not so much earlier before me. But instead of stopping the kids... they were helping them find better ammunition... oh, how bestial was that! I was so shocked that it actually took my couple of seconds to actually register what was really happening and come running to shield my son, before taking him away. And the saddest part of it all was..."

She shook her head and her voice cracked, for just a single moment.

"That Touma-san, 5 years old at the time, was doing his absolute best not to show that he was hurt. In fact, he never cried in front of us, trying to hide it and vent out the stress whenever he was alone. And in that moment, after that horrible act of cruelty, his primary concern was if I was alright. And that wasn't the only case. He always smiled, even if blood trickled from his brow. I know Touya-san was suffering through the fact that Touma-san encountered such awful side of the world so early in his life and I am not really overly emotional person... Touma-san may even think that I raised him rather strictly... but even I, in that time, could not do much other than break in tears when in solitude."

"What horrible people..." Rikuri whispered.

Amazora and Last Order both got tears in their eyes, as the story deeply disturbed them. Kaibi was clenching her fists and Index seemed downright depressed. The look in Shiina's eyes softened a little bit.

"He was later stabbed, in the back, because some lunatic thought Touma-san was the reason for his bankruptcy. And when they slandered my child in that paranormal freak-show, we knew that we had to do something. So Touya-san sent our son to Academy City, a place where we hoped our son will not be persecuted over such ridiculous and superstitious base as bad luck. Only Touma-san truly knows how effective it was... although it appears his tendency for trouble did not lessen in the slightest... this is why I am relieved that he seems to have genuine friends. Well, if he is anything like his father, he won't exactly be complaining for the lack of attention... ladies..."

For some reason, Index and Gokusai sisters suddenly felt as if Shiina had a soul scanning x-ray vision in her eyes.

Shiina sighed, standing up and walking to the window

"It's not that much to ask, isn't it? A love and friendship for your own son? Touma-san didn't deserve any of the things that befallen him. For many years, I was wondering if we did the right thing, with sending him away. Touma-san... I always see that he is dealing with things that I can't grasp. It is supposed be like that with generations changing, but I just know that he is still trying to brace through everything this world throws at him. We grew apart, and he is almost a proper adult. I know that, but if I faced someone who deliberately hurt him... those people would see just what is the wrath of the mother defending her child"

Just outside, hidden behind the wall on the outside window sill, Othinus trembled with intense emotions.

"Khhh..."

She forced herself not to make any sound, however that didn't stop tears falling down her face. She often seemed like possessing the high and mighty attitude, even as a fairy, but right now, even she got emotional.

She returned from the raven flight and was about to enter through the window, when she heard the unfamiliar voice. Instincts told her to wait and listen. And after hearing Shiina's entire monologue over the photo book, she knew she did good.

She could not face this woman. Of all the people in the world, she was probably most scared of Kamijou Shiina right now.

Othinus killed Kamijou Touma countless times in attempts to claim Imagine Breaker and restore her original world. She tormented and hurt him for the unfathomable amount of time.

That in itself was a grave sin against that kind human... and was certainly even more so in the eyes of a mother, someone who brought him into the world.

Even if Shiina could not understand what Othinus truly did, the mere fact that Othinus devoted herself to hurting Kamijou Touma for such a long time would be enough for her.

The presence of that mother made all the guilt in Othinus's heart to rise to the surface.

She was aware that she couldn't exactly dodge that bullet. No, she probably shouldn't dodge it. That could very well be a part of her punishment.

But she needed to prepare herself. She couldn't confront Shiina now. Revealing herself out of the blue would only make things worse. One day, she would come clean and accept all the hate that mother inevitably had for her, without knowing it yet. But for now, she waited.

In the meantime, Touma emerged from his room and everybody's heads turned in his direction.

"Touma-san..."

Touma walked to his mother and smiled.

"Thank you for the letter. It was really something special. You knew its content, right?"

"Yes, I did. We helped you write it. It pains my heart that you had to feel and write things at such age... and later, you moved on and we spent so much time apart. But it's alright, Touma-san. If that decision made a chance of you being happy, then I am willing to move aside. That's what you father said as well."

Touma suddenly embraced Shiina, who looked down in surprise.

"Mom, what are you talking about? You are speaking as if I was to completely leave you behind. You are my mother, why would I not need someone who I owe so much in my life? Just because I go forward, doesn't mean family won't have a place in my life. In fact..." he smiled, looking at everyone gathered" family is something I always dreamed of... and something I will fight for with all my might."

"Touma-san..."

Suddenly, there was a loud knocking on the door. Touma and Shiina, as well as all the girls, looked at the corridor to the entrance to apartment.

"I will get it" Touma said, walking to open the door.

It was Accelerator, who came over to pick Last Order up. And also...

"That's your phone, hero"

"Huh? I didn't even know it was missing!"

"Don't thank me yet... I have a feeling that-"

BZZZT!

The screen of Touma's phone lit up and a mischievous face of Misaka Worst appeared.

"Huh, Worst-san? Why are you on my phone?"

"A little bit of electromaster touch and hacking for you. It would be strange if Misaka didn't do anything since she was the one who borrowed it in the diner from you in the first place"

"You took it? But why?"

"Because your mother seems like a riot. So, Misaka hacked your phone and sent some girls in your contacts info that your mother is in town and wants to meet them... as potential girlfriend materials for you... well, Misaka didn't exactly write that last bit, but it is pretty obvious"

"Again, WHY?!"

"Because messing with you is a lot of fun, that's why! Gyahahahahahah!"

Transmission ended, with both Touma and Accelerator staring at the phone.

"Well, good luck dealing with your relationship shit" Accelerator waved his hand, taking Last Order's with the other one" If it's any consolation, I am going to slug Worst extra hard for you"

And with that, they left.

"Fukou da... it suddenly turned into a big mess" Touma muttered, before Shiina's voice from behind his back caused him to jump into the air.

"From what I heard, someone made a joke on you" the mother spoke "Contacting various girls you know and telling them I was interesting in meeting them?"

"M-Mom, don't pay it any mind, it's just..."

"... an excellent opportunity!"

"Wait, what?!"

"Touma-san, how many times I am in the city? It's a rarity and since I knew you inherited your father's unfortunate characteristic, I have to know the ladies in your surroundings. It's a duty of a mother, especially since you deserve someone nice. Of course the final call is for you to make, but I must learn of some of your friends"

"Wha-... but..."

"No discussion, Touma-san. It could have been a joke, but right now, I am taking this as a serious business. I will stay here for a couple more days. Let's get your friends scheduled"

Touma could only sigh and mutter 'Fukou da' one more time.

And so, Touma temporarily moved back to his old apartment. Worst's prank gathered great deal of attention, and soon, responses started to flood Touma's phone. All he could do in the situation in which his mother was already hell bent on this meeting, was to schedule them. The first being...

1ST MEETING: MISAKA MIKOTO

"Well, it's a nice thing to see you again, Mikoto-san"

"Yes, likewise, Shiina-san"

Mikoto and Shiina were sitting on the bench in the park, observing the passerby and enjoying good weather.

"Is that id... I mean, T-T-T-Touma, is he going to be here?"

"No, I explicitly asked him to give me some space for meeting his friends. So, Mikoto-san, what exactly is your relationship with my son? I am surprised that you are first in line here. You didn't strike me as the type to be so decisive"

The blow to her pride stung, but Mikoto carried on in answer.

"Well, for the longest time, I treated your son as rival like some, well... obstacle to cross of the checklist"

"Oh?"

"A-And he indulged in my selfish... and rather childish desires. We sparred quite a few times, but I never bested him. Looking back, I can see that I should have done first impressions differently, but... what's done is done. We've met when he tried to get me out of trouble caused by some random guys on the street. Since then, we've been in plenty of good and bad situations together and I think it's great to assume that... we are f-f-friends"

"Friends? Just friends?"

"I-I... I mean..."

"Don't get me wrong, Mikoto-san. I am grateful for someone like you to be with my son through thick and thin. Even if you may be indecisive and short-tempered... Touma-san needs someone who puts him back on track and will not let him handle all of the world's weight alone"

"Right?! That's what I've been trying to get through his skull for such a long time now"

"It can be difficult with him, I give you that. All the luck to you. Though I am not really all that surprised. I had a good impression ever since I saw you, even though I wish you didn't make my son a practice target and I strongly advise you not to ever do it again... but well, youth isn't rational. If you matured enough to confront your own feelings, we are heading in the right direction."

"You think so?" Mikoto asked, sparks scattering from her body in excitement.

"Well, I don't have a reason enough to doubt it, if you will learn from your earlier history. You seem to have good head on your shoulders... contrary to Misuzu-san..."

"Oh no, is mama causing you problems?"

"Problems? Well... no, not exactly, I got used to it. Ever since Daihaseisai, she became my best friend. We deeply cherish our times at the pool and when we get to talk about... mostly about you two, actually"

"H-Hwah?!"

"But... she can be a walking disaster when she gets in too much of a good mood. The amount of times I had to stop your mother from doing something stupid while drunk, the amount of moments in which she got on my nerves..."

Mikoto cringed and questioned in an apologetic tone.

"Then... why do you consider her your best friend? I know she thinks similarly about you and she always says that she thinks you are beautiful without any cosmetics, that you are always helping her stay out of trouble and listen to her when she needs to be listened to. But..."

"Why do I consider her a friend?" Shiina adjusted her white hat, thinking out loud" Well, Misuzu-san is like a living antidepressant. Our personalities are polar opposites, but maybe that's why she is so effective in cheering my up when it counts. Additionally, it is good to have someone who can relate to in being constantly courted because of youthful looks. Both Touya-san and Tabigake-san are travelling too... I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't meet too at some point... both even if your mother can be an irresponsible, scatterbrained drinker... she is kind of precious in her own way. And that's something I don't say quite often"

(MEANWHILE, AT TOKYO UNIVERSITY, FACULTY OF MATHEMATICS)

'For some reason... I wonder how Shi-chan is doing'

Misuzu looked at her phone. While in the main screen she had a photo with herself, Tabigake, and Mikoto, on her lock screen there was a photo depicting Misuzu, laughing and blushing, and Kamijou Shiina. Who, despite looking as if she was questioning her friends sanity, still sent a small, almost unnoticeable smile in her direction as she they were squished together in the photo.

(AND BACK...)

"That's quite intriguing in its own right... considering Misuzu-san is in Touya-san's type, or at least there was similar girls around him in the past..."

"Huh? WHAT?!"

"Oh, certainly. In the past, I would have to persuade her to drop it..."

Mikoto shivered. There was something strange in a way Shiina coldly spoke the word 'persuade'.

"... but it just appears to me that you have the chance on at least that base."

"D-D-Don't draw quick conclusions Shiina-san. I-I-It's not like th-that..."

"You mean that 'it's not like that because you don't want it to be like that' or maybe..."

"O-Oh, hey, I got thirsty, let's kick something out of the vending machine!"

"I would prefer if we acted like civilized human beings and paid normally! But, a drink on the way to my next meeting would be agreeable."

2ND MEETING: HASAKO & MAIDONO

"My name is Kamijou Shiina. What's yours?"

"Kankyougami Hasako, Kamijou-sama." Hasako said, doing an elegant bow, her long branched ponytail fluttering in the wind" It's an honour to meet you"

"Please, while I can appreciate politeness from one lady to another, no need to be so formal. Call me Shiina-san."

They were standing at the helicopter platform on the roof of Heaven Canceller's hospital. From there, they were to embark on secret sightseeing with Shiina.

"I see that you brought a friend. Maidono-san, was it?"

"Well, I was feeling a bit anxious. Also, there is something we both want you to see"

They embarked on the helicopter and were ready to depart. But...

"Where do you think you are going?" Maidono shouted at Mikoto, who seemed to be ready to board the helicopter as well.

The machine was an autopilot helicopter. All one needed to do was put in the instructions and coordinates and the machine would fly to destination. Mikoto patted it with her hand. Electricity crackled and the engine came to life, with rotor blades beginning to spin.

"I am coming to see it. You keep hogging your surprise to yourself"

However, an irritated Maidono pointed at the machine with her index finger, and the engine died down, when the blades were forcibly slowed down and then came to a complete halt.

"Except the fact that this is a top secret and we want Touma to see it first. Shiina-san is an exception, but no one else. Hasacchi, start the engine!"

"T-There isn't a self destruct button in here, right? Or ejection one?"

"No, you technophobe! Just press that big red one on the left of the console!"

"Right..."

The machine started and started to ascend before...

Arcs of electricity danced as Mikoto started to pull the helicopter down to the ground with magnetism.

"Come on, what are you hogging to yourself all that time?!"

Maidono pointed her index finger and the helicopter wobbled, suddenly pulled upward.

Mikoto groaned and intensified her power, to which Maidono did the same, using both of her index fingers for the upward pull. For the next half of a minute, the girls wrestled with their powers, telekinesis vs magnetism, one pulling the machine upwards and the other one downwards.

Finally, Maidono screamed wildly and threw her hands up as if tossing something, which sent helicopter high into the air, away from Mikoto's range.

Maidono winked sarcastically to Railgun, before shooting into the air and gaining the altitude of the helicopter.

Mikoto scoffed at that, but she knew that pursuing the group would lead to unnecessary struggle. Maidono was quite vehement on not letting anyone see the present she was working on for Touma and as much as Mikoto hated to admit it, the telekinesis user got even stronger since they last fought each other.

Meanwhile, in the air, Shiina regained her breath

"Well, Maidono-san, you certainly are an enthusiastic one"

"Well, we can't let anyone spoiling a surprise"

"Hoshimi, did you have to have a tug of war with Misaka-san with us inside the helicopter? And also... you are panting quite a bit"

"Well, Railgun is a level 5 for a reason. It would be a different story if that thing was non-metallic... also, if I just pulled you up with her pushing down, the entire helicopter would just crumble like a can. I had to keep the whole thing intact"

There were to leave Academy City and later fly over the ocean.

"So, Maidono-san, Hasako-san... what exactly is your connection with my son?"

The girls looked at one another.

"Once, both of us didn't see eye to eye with him. But he convinced us that the world is much bigger than we ever thought possible. With his help, we saw the world clearly and could really enjoy it. We owe him a lot" Hasako commented sweetly.

"Yes, he really did a lot of good for us. It was thanks to him that I liberated myself from bad influences, got the ability to fly... and met my best friend."

"Sounds like a truly touching story. You seem to like him a lot"

'Well, we almost killed him with falling skyscrapers...'

' ...and lethal environments... but...'

'... let's not dwell on the past'

"W-Well, he is a great guy... he didn't make fun of my complex and-"

"You are holding back, Hoshimi... aren't you always saying that you would love to be his servant? You are in love with him" Hasako said with a smile.

Maidono hyperventilated at that and her cheeks reddened, when Shiina exclaimed

"My my, Maidono-san, I don't know how exactly my son changed your life, but you are quite bold. Role-plays of slave and master are not appropriate at your age. Wait until marriage with that..."

"I a... am not... I said servant! I am just want to be of service to him... help him in any way..." Maidono was now full-on embarrasseed" Shiina-san, there is nothing like that going on. I mean, I like your son a lot..."

"Marriage..." Hasako, suddenly taken in by her imagination, imagined herself in the wedding dress side by side with Touma in luxurious tuxeado.

"Quite the dreamy face you have, young lady. Would you mind sharing your thoughts?"

"Yeah, Hasacchi" Maidono saw this as a perfect opportunity to get back at her friend for her earlier comment" Don't act all innocent. Kumokawa-san told me how you say that you keep saying that you want to lay next to him while sleeptalking. You want to go steps fruther, huh?"

"W-Wha... I... kyah!"

POOF!

The first esper, Beginning Child, exploded in red and almost deflated, with her head falling on the seat in hot, almost smoking state.

With both girls emotionally K.O-ed, it took them nearly 10 minutes to regain their cool, to Shiina's silent amusement.

'Hmm, I got to admit, they are both rather uniquely attractive. Maidono-san has great proportions of her legs and belly, while Kankyougami-san has most enchanting eyes and face. While I am not really thrilled with the perspective of Touma-san following in Touya-san's footsteps in this particular area, at the very least, he seems to gather some charming lady friends... even if they seem quite peculiar too'

(SOME TIME LATER...)

After a journey over the ocean, they arrived at the sea of misty clouds...

"Is it natural for the mist to gather like this in the middle of the ocean?" Shiina asked.

"No, not really, not like this. It's a form of deterrent for people trying to get to our secret..." Maidono answered cryptically.

And then, in front of their eyes appeared...

"An island? But it's..."

"We know." Maidono smugly looked forward" Welcome to... well, name is a work in progress... but it's our shared gift for your son"

"But... there is no such island!"

"Yes there is. I know because I personally shifted the terrain to lift and build it from the seafloor. Had to search for the right place for quite a while. Meanwhile what you see on the surface... now that's Hasako's work"

The island was medium sized, with 10 kilometers or so for its radius. It consisted from central part, more or less resembling a disc, with four arms extending from it like crescent spirals, making the whole thing similar to a sketch of a galaxy. Between each spiral arm and mainland were lagoons of water. But what really stood out was the fact that...

"The central part of this island..."Shiina said, lifting up her hat to see better. " It's a tropical jungle with a mountain and a lake in the center. But besides that... each arm that form those spiral peninsulas... each has a different climate!"

She was right. The center part of the island was a tropical jungle of vibrant green, with slightly elevated middle around which crystal blue lake was located.

The south arm of the spirals was glowing red and the ocean was boiling around it. Even from the air one could see the rivers of magma, clouds of smoke, and light from eruptions of volcanic peaks.

The north arm was covered in snow and ice, with small icebergs floating in nearby waters. Ice cracked and wind howled as snow kept covering the icy slopes and valleys of winter terrain.

The east arm was completely covered in sand and desert, with portions of it being carried over and forming large dunes. This arm also had the most beautiful beaches, with sand descending into the water and clashing with bright blue lagoon.

The west arm was covered in steam and geysers, with many lakes and what appeared to be onsen springs flowing around, one into the other, surrounded by the pressurized eruptions and containing rocky beaches, with ocean water slightly cooling off the warm rocks.

As it was said, the central part of the island was a jungle. A river was flowing across the south-north axis, that is, close to the volcano and arctic arms, with temperature of the water becoming balanced in the lake at the center of the island. On the lake, island within and island, there was a peak going couple hundred meters into the air, covered in flowers and greenery.

"This is our shared gift for your son. Would you like to see it from the bird's eye view?"

"Yes... certainly, but I don't have my glid-"

"With respect..."

In the next moment, Maidono grabbed the surprised Shiina and jumped out of the helicopter after pulling the door open.

(LATER...)

The sudden experience was scary but Maidono held the mother tightly and they flew over the island, before descending down to the beach on the mainland, with helicopter with Hasako landing nearby.

"This place is beautiful. So let me get this straight... you two created that island... alone? Just the two of you?"

"Yes. I created a tectonic rift and began to elevating the terrain bit by bit to form this island." Maidono said with a smile, getting rid of her shirt as her exposed belly glistened with sweat" And Hasacchi used her power to change this barren rock into multi-environment paradise."

"Environments?"

"I shall demonstrate, Shiina-san" Hasako, who joined them couple minutes prior, answered.

In one moment, the almost transparent sphere of influence extended over the entire beach. Hasako roared and in one moment, the entire beach turned into ice.

"Incredible... temperature lowered as well..." Shiina could not help but shiver, both from the cold and from the incredible display of power.

"I discovered that by repeatedly changing environment in specific place multiple times, I am able to permananently alter its climate "Hasako said, releasing her power, and causing the ice to instantly melt" This is how I created many different climates on one island"

"This also came with many perks. Because of the unique climate of this island, it's incredibly hard to get through the tides and air currents by both air and ocean. I also made a few reefs and surprises for the uninvited. With Kumokawa-san's help, we negotiated with Japanese Goverment and this is our private area, in exchange for a fee from the side of Academy City."

"Did everyone agree to this, just like that?"

"Well, there was this one guy from the military who was a bit more stubborn..."

(FLASHBACK)

"We are almost there, sir. The new island is in sight"

The man in naval uniform and dark sunglasses smiled with triumph.

"Finally! We have our heaviest artillery on this vessel. What arrogant brats! If the government makes exception for them, then everyone will desire to carve out a part of motherland for his egoistical needs. I don't care what HQ says, if I teach them a lesson, I will be revered as a hero. Come on, those are two girls we are talking about"

"B-But sir... those girls are espers. Maybe we shouldn't..."

"Are you a man or what? We have a heavily armed warship against two teenagers. It's not like we are gonna kill them, we will just scare them a little and-"

THUMP!

The entire warship trembled. The lights flickered, as the rumbling intensified.

"What happened? Did we crash into something?"

"No, that's not it. The instruments went crazy. They indicated that we are raising up. Submergence level is dropping!"

There was another tremor and this time every single solider felt as if something was grabbing them by their uniforms in an upward pull.

"Confirmed! We are being lifted up!"

"Don't be absurd! This is a new generation armoured destroyer. It weighs nearly 15 000 tons when loaded, it needs special cranes to be lifted! I am going to check what the hell is really going on!"

But as the general went out, he got as pale as a sheet.

The enormous warship was indeed lifted into the air, nearly hundred meters above the surface of the water, the liquid falling down from it in cascades.

There was a small pontoon nearby and a single girl in a swimsuit with her index finger pointing upwards. Using her other hand, she used a megaphone to shout.

"Don't worry! I am not gonna kill you, I am just going to scare you a little"

Her finger began to make a circle in the air.

The enormous air-suspended ship rotated, nearly upside down, causing massive choir of panicked screams, as people grabbed onto anything to not fall down.

"Don't worry about your equipment, I will lift it up for you later. So would you be so damn kind and get the hell out of here?" Maidono Hoshimi asked, batting her eyes with a smug smile.

No military ship ever graced the waters around the newly created island.

(BACK TO THE PRESENT)

"Ah, good times, good times"

It was also a good thing that it was Maidono who went to prevent the interference of the military back then. Because as much as she loved spending time with Hasako, she was still afraid of the times where Beginning Child got serious.

Who wouldn't be? Hasako was gentle spirit, but if she truly got serious, her personality got intense, and that was still an euphemism. The pressure of power she emanated during fights was inhuman. Her anger was cold and focused, and, intentionally or not, she didn't make any unnecessary movements, knowing that no one would dare to approach her. She just slowly walked to the target, barely blinking, even if she was surrounded by freezing snowstorms of glaciers, or heat of magma so intense that it could melt metals on the spot. On that island alone, she managed to create an enormous iceberg on one side and volcanic lands on the other through sheer focus and repeated activation of her ability, not counting a small desert and geysers. It could make anyone terrified, as that one delicate girl stood alone, changing the very world around her by just one command.

As Maidono was having those thoughts, Shiina got out something of her bag.

"Do we intend to sunbath here?"

"Yes. We can talk while doing it"

"Then... Kankyougami-san, would you be so kind and put this on"

"B-B-B-But this seems like just a few pieces of covering my chest and crotch... that is no swimsuit!"

"Yes, it is. My husband bought it for me, but I have a spare. I think you will look gorgeous in it."

"Hoshimi, let me go... let go! No, don't take the photo-"

"Heh, you don't want Touma to see you like this? You look like a wonder of the world..."

POOF!

In second time that day, the Beginning Child went completely red and limp in her friends hands, while wearing a risque swimsuit.

"Whoops... I think we overteased her."

Even if she was one of the mightiest espers of all time, Kankyougami Hasako was, emphasis on that, adorable in many respects.

(MEANWHILE IN ACADEMY CITY)

"So, things happened, and I have to crash here for a few days" Touma looked over his old dorm and four girls within it.

Lessar grinned, giving him the thumbs up

"Sure thing, Lover Boy. Our home is your home"

"Lessar, his home is our home. He is the one that owns the place"

"Yeah, what are you still doing here?"

"Oh, you know, we are still doing the finishing touches to your place"

Those four girls were totally not stalling to get their chance in spending time with Kamijou Touma.

Time passed and after settling in, Touma made girls dinner.

"I wish I could eat this every day!" Lancis said with a small giggle.

Was Touma seeing things or was the brown haired girl especially fancy today? Her nails were freshly done, her eyebrows expertly trimmed, skin had a glossy shine, and her hair smelled like fresh forest air. And also... she was batting eyes at him... no, he was surely mistaken...

"Lancis-san, did something got into your eye?" he asked unsurely, earning another giggle.

Sometime later, when Touma went to wash his teeth, Bayloupe sneaked into the bathroom and asked, amused:

"Is that my toothbrush?"

Touma froze as Bayloupe pointed at toothbrush in her own mouth.

"See? Mine has a small B on the bottom"

"O-Our toothbrushes look the same?!"

"Yes, what a coincidence, is it not? Don't worry, I only used it once"

Now Touma surely had to be hallucinating because for some reason, he thought Bayloupe took extra time to pull the toothbrush out of her mouth. Also, was her pyjama always that thight?

"A-Are you sure it's okay to sleep with me in the same room?"

"Trust me, it's more than okay" Lessar sing-song, licking her lips.

Yep, at the very least that one wasn't a hallucination.

And apparently, a fully red Floris wasn't having it either.

"Look, Kamijou Touma, at that pillow wall! This is an impenetrable wall of Jericho! If you cross this line, you are dead."

Only an hour or so, the wall was breached by Floris herself who began to chew on Touma's ear in her sleep. Bayloupe wasn't far behind, pressing herself onto Touma's side with her own chest, mirrored by Lancis from the other side. And, what was the most absurd of all, Lessar managed to rotate herself somehow, so her head rested on his abdonmen, while his own head was between her thighs.

At that point, Touma felt the risk to his internal organs, since it seemed like all the blood of his body was directed to two places: his cheeks and... well, down under.

"Yep." he whispered through the heat" Definitely locking myself next night in my cozy bathroom. British girls are crazy... I am definitely have a long night ahead of me..."

(NEXT DAY)

3RD MEETING: SHOKUHOU MISAKI

"Shiina-san, I am aware that this is a lot to take in"

Shiina shook her head, drying her eyes.

"No, Shokuhou-san. I will be fine... it's just... there were many emotions involved."

"Indeed"

Kamijou Shiina met Shokuhou Misaki in front of Tokiwadai. In retrospective, this wasn't such a good idea. Gossip was spreading fast and the young-looking mother was swarmed with Tokiwadai ladies, wanting to meet her. Things got rather tumultuous until Misaki didn't calm everyone down. She apologized to Shiina, complementing her for being absolutely in place in Tokiwadai, despite being an adult, and saying that many girls got excited through the fact that Touma was quite popular in Tokiwadai's social network of gossip.

Misaki took Shiina for a cup of fancy tea. During that time, she introduced herself, and gave Touma's mom a brief description of her life in Academy City.

Misaki was nervous, but also incredibly excited. After Touma, regained his ability to retain her in his memory, nothing seemed impossible anymore.

As for Shiina, Misaki did not evoke any particularly strong emotions. That is, until Misaki decided to share with Shiina her history with Touma, omitting certain parts of her later involvement with him that were concerning magic. She did it in the most efficient way she knew, that is, the direct memory transfer. And so, Shiina learned everything from bumping on the intersection to Touma's recovery from anterograde amnesia, all in seconds.

Even that dignified and collected woman could not stop tears, as she tightly hugged Misaki.

"Unbelievable... to think that you remained bent on this one objective... I can't thank you enough for this! Your story is so touching!"

"I am relieved that your view is such, but... you don't have any anger ability at me?... Because of me, Touma got really hurt"

Shiina shook her head, exhaling to calm herself down.

"While my heart is crying out, I am slowly starting to realize, from what I am hearing from you, that I will not be able to shield my child forever. Touma-san is entering the age of independency and it is as clear as day that decisions to get involved and save different people is his own will. I would like him to do it in a way that doesn't put him in harmful situations, but... if those are the virtues he holds, I can't help but be grateful that he took the way we raised him in to heart."

"Then all thankfulness ability goes to you" Misaki smiled, pouring more tea into the cups.

"What do you intend to do now, Misaki-san?"

"Well, seeing that my prince can remember me now, I want to spend as much time with him as possible" Misaki gave a radiant smile, to no one in particular, as she watched the imagination through her mind's eye." Maybe some kind of a trip..."

"Would you like to our summer house? Contrary to our dear Touma-san, me and my husband are quite lucky in lotteries and we happened to win one not so long ago. It's by the seaside and-"

"A house for the two of us?! By the sea?!"

"Now let's not get ahead of things" Shiina raised an eyebrow" We would be with you. I can understand your excitement, but act through your brain, not through your hormones, young lady"

Misaki blushed heavily, but did not seem apologetic in the slightest.

"Changing topics, I think I heard the surname Shokuhou before..."

"Oh that's probably through the fashion/perfume company my father manages"

"And your mother... you said she was a lawyer?"

"Emm... she is... how to say it..."

"MISAKIIIIIIII!"

A very loud voice of a succubus in disguise made her jump and look around with wide eyes.

'... She is here?!'

Bologna slid to the scene with a wide grin.

"Little bird told me that you are meeting with a very special guest!"

"How did you know I was here?!"

"I have my ways"

"You always say that and it doesn't explain anything!"

"I simply could not let that occasion slip... oh, you are gorgeous!"

Bologna said that leaning over Shiina, who watched in shock as the blond's giant chest bounced by the motion.

"It's nice to meet you... too"

"Mom, personal space!" Misaki said, pulling Bologna away.

"I was born before the concept of personal space. Those were the times..."

"Mayoku-san..."

"Bologna"

"Excuse me?"

"Bologna is fine!"

"What do you like to do in life?"

"Take of my clo- ow!"

Misaki crushed Bologna's foot with a chair.

"I mean, my life's mission is to help unjustly accused. I am even in a... organization of sorts, gathering people who also dedicate their lives to these sorts of endeavours."

"Oh, so you worked in a company too? Did you have a good boss?"

"Well, a bit of a demanding one, with enormous power too..."

"Oh, I know this type. They elevate someone like this and suddenly they lose their head..."

"That's... quite an unfortunate way to put it in Alice's case..."

"Actually, mom, you know and helped Touma too" Misaki mentioned with a small smile.

"Ah yes, I gave him a transfusion of my blood and kept him from dying, no big dealsie"

"Oh my, if it's true than I must thank you, Bologna-san. And looking at you, I must say, you look spectacular. I would sell my soul to a demon to look half as good as you"

"No, no, you are the one that look good... and seriously, no deals with the demons. Those dealings are always nasty."

"What?"

"So what about Misaki? My genetics come strong here, tehehehe... including dirty thoughts"

"T-That's not true at all... stop giving me those looks, you two!"

4TH MEETING: MUGINO SHIZURI

"I got to admit, this is most peculiar..." Shiina mused, as she and Mugino Shizuri sat by the table of one the most exquisite restaurants of district 4. A moment of silence followed.

Mugino arrived on time. She was actually shocked earlier that Touma's mother actually wanted to meet his friends and that she was included in that group. Well, she and Touma did make out a bit so it wasn't such a shocker but it was still unexpected.

However, when she came to the meeting, she was certain of one thing: she wasn't nervous. And even if she was, she would quench it and show dominance in front of Shiina.

Shiina went on with a now standard set of questions and Mugino curtly explained of what her involvement with Touma contained. Then they were silent for a bit of time. That being said...

"You know..." Mugino broke the silence, crossing her arms and looking at the brown haired woman in white and cardigan" I am not exactly fond of someone staring at me in silence, when they obviously have something on their mind. Do I have something on my face?"

"Not on your face, but because of your face" Shiina answered softly" Through the time we spoke in last half an hour... I can't help but think that you are incredibly similar to me, when I was your age"

"Huh? How so?"

"We look very similar, for one thing. And from what I can tell by the way you express yourself, move, and look at others... it's as if I am looking at the video from my teenage years. My my, it's like a special effect!"

"Oh, I assure you, I am not like you in the slightest!"

"Keep an open mind, Shizuri-san. You might be surprised how strange the world can be"

Mugino laughed and waved her hand.

"You have no idea what you are talking abou-"

Suddenly, her hand was snatched as Shiina smiled thinly.

Mugino winced. The older woman had a surprisingly strong grip.

"I am not claiming to be through more than you, yet I think you are old enough... and smart enough... to know not to judge a book by the cover. You are a strong and beautiful girl, and will grow into a woman with those qualities multiplied. From your words, I can tell that you are hiding something. I can feel that destructive temper hidden under that pretty façade. I used to be the same, so I know how you think. That does not mean that I know you. On contrary, we are just starting to interact. But if you are interested why do I compare us... when we were in our teenage years, my husband, Kamijou Touya, was at the center of attention of dozens of females... he even wanted to flirt with his own teacher. Well, there was one girl who appeared harmless because of how polite she was. But she wasn't going to let the man she set her eyes on go with another. So, if I am the wife today, and there were so many others, the question you should be asking is..."

Still holding Mugino by the hand, Shiina lifted her head to gaze at Meltdowner with a somewhat hollow eyes, despite her lips still smiling

"... what happened to all of them?"

Mugino actually felt inside of her mouth go dry for a second, before she grinned wildly

"You didn't..."

"Oh no, not what you think. I just... strongly convinced them to stay out of my way. A little bit of powder to create a rash here, a little bit of locked doors there, some pins on the chair, some letters of warning, chocolate with laxatives... oh, there were many ways. I simply believed that the final outcome is more important than the steps towards it..."

"Heh, I take back what I thought" Mugino laughed in much more approachable manner" You are crazy in all the right ways. And I am the one saying that!"

Shiina let go of Mugino, and two looked at each other with much greater deal of interest.

"If you have an intuition that I dealt with heavier things that I let to show" Mugino commented" You are fine with me and him? I have some serious dirt in the past"

"Well, Touma-san doesn't seem to mind it anymore, and if he did, there would be no discussion from his side of things too" Shiina replied" If you did something that wouldn't agree with his principles, he would lose contact with you even without my intervention. Or rather, he would try to get you back on the right track"

"Yeah... that sounds like him"

"It seems though you seem confident" Shiina took out her phone, displaying photos of Mugino in deep kiss with Touma, making a peace sign to the camera" The mere fact that you even thought of snatching a photo in that moment and showed me this is a testimony of that. You are extremely bold, young lady. The border between bravery and stupidity is often thin, but I would lie if said that your personality in all of this isn't kind of impressive."

"Heh, who do you think you are talking about?" Mugino replied nonchalantly.

As two women giggled in that calculated manner that hid less than elegant interior, few tables away, Hamazura Shiage was shaking like a leaf

"I think something unspeakable will result from those two meeting..."

"I like her" Takitsubo commented, pointing at her boyfriend's head" She made your hair look funny"

"N-No, don't look at me! I just wanted to say hello to boss's mother, I didn't plan to be pulled through shopping center with them. And what did my poor hair do to her?! Boss!"

5TH MEETING: ITSUWA

It seemed that Kamijou Shiina jumped from one side of the spectrum to another with her next meeting.

"P-P-Please, Shiina-san, just... e-e-e-enjoy yourself..."

Shiina and Itsuwa were sitting by the riverside, with the picnic cloth spread on the grassy hill.

"I would dear, but... why are you sitting 5 meters away from me? Move closer..."

*shuffle, shuffle*

Fidgeting Itsuwa moved centimetres to the right, making Shiina sigh.

"My dear, you have nothing to worry about. I don't bite"

"O-Of course... I am sorry... it's just that meeting with you so suddenly... I got as nervous as when I wanted to talk to Touma-san for the first time..."

"But you still came! Touma said you are very brave and kind..."

"He did?!" Itsuwa's excitement flashed like a firework, before shyness overcame her once again" I mean... that is..."

"You have that joy in your eyes when you speak of him? How did you meet?"

"He was fighting against my friends... and later we teamed up to take down a common enemy."

"Touma-san really has some explaining to do in regards to his activities..."

"B-But thanks to his actions, so many-"

"I know. And it seems that you fell in love watching him."

"L-L-L-LOVE?!"

"Affection at first sight is nice, but the one that develops and blooms like yours is also unique and worth attention."

"Shiina-san... why are you so kind to me? This is the first time we are meeting each other"

New look entered Shiina's eyes and Itsuwa realized that it was the same type of compassion that she often saw in Touma's eyes when he wanted to cheer someone up.

"Because I hate seeing someone worthy belittling themselves. You are putting yourself down, don't you? Even though from what you're saying, you are very passionate about spending time with my son, at the same time you are severely downplaying your chances"

"B-Because there are so many other girls... my own superior too..."

"But that doesn't matter. If you compare yourself like that, you will be bound to lose" in an absolutely rare moment of elation, it was Shiina's time to get slightly excited" Each one of you is different, but what matters in the end is if your actions convince Touma-san to choose you! There is nothing more pity-worthy that a maiden who denies her own desire and lust for a man"

(MEANWHILE, IN JUDGEMENT'S BRANCH OFFICE)

"Oh? Is something the matter, Shirai-san?" asked Uiharu.

"I wanted to sneeze, but now it's gone" Kuroko grumbled, shuffling the documents aside" For some reason, I got really pissed after that"

"Maybe you are just irritated through all of those newfound feelings"

"PFFT! Uiharu, what in the world are you talking about?!"

"Oh, I don't know. You kept drawing some strange spiky shapes on pieces of paper, wrote a mail to make White Springs have a suspicious reduction of prices for eggs..."

"D-Don't hack into my mailbox!"

"... you wrote the word 'ape' instead of 'tape' in the suspect interview protocol...

"T-That surely was a misspelling!"

"... fifteen times... and don't get me started on the fact that you hogged the files of Kamijou's fights in our branch to yourself..."

"For research purposes!"

"What kind of research involves taking those documents at night to your dorm?"

"U... Uiharu, I don't have time for that nonsense! I must get to work."

"Wow, if that's your excuse to get away, you must be really desperate. Gods, if Shirai has hots for Kamijou, force her to give me a sign... now!"

"Achoo!"

"There we go."

"That wasn't any sign... j-just conveniently timed accident! Uiharu!"

(BACK TO ITSUWA AND SHIINA)

Itsuwa looked up with sparkling eyes as Shiina steadied herself, straightening her hat and tidying her hair.

"You really... think I have an actual chance?"

"I know you have a chance. The question is what will you do with it. Itsuwa-san, you are very charming and cute. But the deciding factor is... that you have a good heart. Touma-san encounters many setbacks in his life. In time, wealth can only buy so much. Beauty with wither with time. But goodness of your heart is something Touma-san will always need. You made the picnic bento you are treating me with yourself, is that right?"

"Y-Yes, I did prepare it..."

"Itsuwa-san..." Shiina smiled, slightly nodding her head" Do your best! I wouldn't lie if I said that the kind daughter-in-law is a rare treasure in those times."

'Daughter-in-law... daughter-in-law... daughter-in-law...'

Itsuwa's blush went up to the roots of her hair, as she shakily raised her fist, her voice cracking slightly in an endearing way

"Yes!"

Although she never considered getting drunk to deal with the stress of meeting Touma's mother, she actually felt as if intoxicated without the help of alcohol.

"You can cook, clean, drive multiple vehicles, speak foreign languages... you have excellent qualities!"

"W-W-When you put it like that... I guess I am good in some areas..." Itsuwa said with a small smile. With that smile, it was almost as if the sun shone brighter.

"Thank you Shiina-san. I have group of friends, who always get very... enthusiastic in showing me support..."

In that moment she swore that for the life of her, there was no way that she could let Shiina met the Amakusa yet. If she did, they would never let her live it up.

"... but hearing it from you it's reassuring in its own way..."

"I am glad to hear that. I would love to eat some of your food again"

"Oh, it's nothing compared what your son can put together."

"Hmm, so that would make your combined skills unbeatable... maybe you two should open a restaurant? Or a pastry shop?"

"I suppose... something like this would be really nice..."

'Also, when I think about it, Shiina is not a bad girl name for a bab-'

"W-W-W-WHAT AM I THINKING ABOUT?!"

"Itsuwa-san, why are you hitting your head with the bento box?! Itsuwa-san, stay with me!"

6TH MEETING: KANZAKI KAORI

"Yes..."

"Emm... missus..."

"Kamijou Shiina"

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Shiina-san. But... why did the first thing you said to me was yes?"

Kanzaki Kaori was panting slightly, more from nerves than the actual fatigue. Besides the fact that she accidentally ripped the door out of hinges from the unexpected message from Touma, she was so much in the overthinking mode that she overslept and had to run at full speed to make it to the meeting point.

"I said yes, miss..."

"Kanzaki. Kanzaki Kaori"

"... Kanzaki-san, the instant I saw you, the first thing I thought 'she is in Touma-san's preference'"

"Really?" Kanzaki blinked in disbelief" How do you-"

"Trust me. Mother's intuition"

"So he-"

"He does"

"And he-"

"He will. Kanzaki-san..."

Shiina put a finger on her lips, while circling the girl around. Kanzaki scratched her head, not sure what to make of such inquisitive observation

"Strong legs, shaped belly, slim hands... good hair, vividly hued lips, a good smile, nice nose... for that matter, are you an athlete, Kanzaki-san?"

"W-What? N-No, I am not. I have a very good stamina, but I am not really a professional athlete."

"Hmm, interesting. But your hands look as if you practicing... kendo, maybe?"

"Close... it's from nodachi. Why did you ask if I was an athlete?"

"Oh, that's because from my own experience. My husband had once dated a volleyball team leader... in fact, you are kind of similar to her... ohohohohoho..."

The ojou-sama laugh got progressively darker, and Kanzaki paled slightly at the miasma emanating from elegant woman.

"W-Well, I am actually a Priestess"

"Hmm? A shrine maiden?"

"More of a... religious representative"

"I'll take your word for it. Still, quite intriguing, for a priestess to be that fit..."

"I was born blessed with both strong body and good luck... I once survived a plane crash"

"Truly? Well, I would say that Touma-san would definitely use some luck in his life... or someone with it"

"I thought so too" Kanzaki said joyfully, before noticing Shiina's gaze" Shiina-san?"

"Kanzaki-san, for how long do you think seriously about my son?"

"Ghhh!"

Kanzaki choked on air and wheezed out

"Thinking seriously? I... I-I...what do you me-"

"Kanzaki-san, please, you know full well what I mean. While I am here to meet Touma's friends, thinking of prospective daughter-in-law material is not out of question"

'That's why it feels like a marriage interview!' something screamed in Kanzaki's soul.

Suddenly, she felt completely inadequate, standing in front of Shiina with her regular tied T-shirt and asymmetric jeans. Nevertheless, she steeled herself and said

"I... am an old friend of Index, you already met her. When me and my other friend failed to help her, Touma-san saved her, not minding the risk to his own life. Later, he led me to reunite with Amakusa, group I am a priestess of. So I felt like I owe him a big debt of gratitude which only grew with each moment we shared, despite how much I tried..."

"Oh? And how did you try to repay it?"

"With my bo-" Kanzkai began to say automatically, before clasping her mouth shut with her hand.

"What was that?"

"N-Nothing!"

'Curse that Tsuchimikado! Because of him, I say idiotic things whenever I am stressed!'

"A-Anyway, after some time, I got to the conclusion that I might have developed a... f-feelings for him. I really admire your son, Shiina-san. He is brave and compassionate, despite his constant lack of fortune. He saves people even in places where I couldn't. I aspire to be as virtuous as him and if he would want that... I hope that my presence in his life can bring him at least a bit of luck. He... deserves all of it."

"Well said, Kanzaki-san. Which is why you need to work on the balance of your charm"

"Balance?"

"Yes, balance. I think it's great that you are lucky in contrast to Touma-san's bad luck. But you need to think to be both strong and delicate. In those times, it is important to not be shuffled into just one category. You can be both a fit girl and caring girlfriend. Those hands can do more than hold a sword"

Kanzaki blushed and looked at her hands as if they were some kind of amulets capable of altering the fate of the world. Despite being slightly roughened up by her many fights, she retained classically feminine fingernails and delicate built.

'To imagine... M-Me carressing his face... me turning his face towards mine... me reaching under his-'

"Kanzaki-san? Kanzaki-san?!"

Kanzaki blinked, going back to reality.

"Y-Yes?"

"All I am saying that while Touma-san is himself quite a househusband material, it wouldn't hurt to know a bit of domestic qualities yourself"

"Hmm... and what would those entail?"

"Well... tending for meals, clothes, caring for home..."

"Wait, you said clothes? As in washing clothes?

"Well, that too of course... Kanzaki-san?"

'So she is telling me... that I have Kamijou Touma and washing machine, one of most dear elements of my existence, in one place, all for me... and it will be my everyday life?!'

"SHIINA-SAN!"

"Y-Yes?!"

"I am ready for that supplementary lessons on the way of domestic life. I will not back down!"

"What got you so fired up all of the sudden..."

7TH MEETING: NEW LIGHT

Lessar sat straight on the sofa in front of Shiina. Touma left the apartment for a walk, so the girls were alone with the mother. After some talking, they decided to go for a talk.

"So, tell me... Lessar-san, was it? You and your friends are from abroad, right?"

"Yup. From United Kingdom. You visited our country?"

"No, although I am not saying that I am against it. It seems to have such a unique feeling to itself"

"Oh, you should totally do it! We would make sure that you were staying in good place"

"Lessar-san... say a few things about your ambitions and who you are in general"

Lessar took a deep breath and smiled.

"Why do I have bad feeling about this? What if she says something really stupid? It's actually not my problem, but for some reason, I can't help being nervous." whispered Lancis.

"I get you, but I don't think even Lessar is stupid enough... she won't just say-" muttered Bayloupe

"Hello, my name is Lessar. I love United Kingdom, I am 15, and my life's ambition is bearing your son's child!"

'She went and said it!' the eavesdropping trio thought in horror.

"Pardon?"

"It's pretty straightforward. You see, I-"

BAM!

Shiina's surprise soared up even higher when three girls basically tackled Lessar to the ground.

"Emm..."

"Please forgive her stupidity, she thinks with her reproductive system instead of doing so with a brain. I am Bayloupe, this is Floris and Lancis. We form a group called New Light"

"You girls are friends?"

"More so, family... stop struggling, Lessar!... your son helped this moron here once and ever since she is kind of... enthusiastic, in a questionable way"

"But Bayloupe, I am honest about being a responsible adult lover..."

"I will smite you with lightning if you won't stop embarrassing our public image!"

"NEVER! I would rather be bold and embrace my carnal potential than wiggle my body while denying that I have any affection at. I am not giving any names... Floris~"

"I DO NO SUCH THING... anymore..."

"Hehehe, she got you good..."

"Y-Yeah? What about you, Lancis? You were so prim and above the rest when Lessar wanted to use you for her seduction schemes, but now you look like a giggling elementary schooler whenever you see him. Your eyes are practically begging for him to get all cozy-cozy with you"

"He... he told me laugh is cute. You have no idea how happy and appreciated I felt because of that!"

"I think you are letting this escalate way more than it should escalate" Bayloupe nodded sagely, before nearly falling over from the collective shout of the remaining trio.

"Just because you are the oldest and you have biggest boobs, doesn't mean you can silence our freedom of love!"

"What was that?" the silver haired girl put a hand to her ear" I can't hear you over the sound of all the jealousy seeping through"

"WHAT?!"

But then, there was another sound. An elegant, but still resounding, it was stifled laughter.

All four girls looked at Shiina, who coughed into her hand, with lips still in a gentle smile.

"Pardon me, but... you are quite amusing. It's good thing that Touma found herself someone who can bring that much joy into their lives..."

New Light memebers looked at each other and slowly smiled.

"Let's talk again. Although I must first lecture you on proper sexual conduct, Lessar-san"

"Boo..." said girl pouted quietly, while crossing her fingers behind her back" Let's get this over with"

(MEANWHILE, AT THE KAMIJOU + GOKUSAI RESIDENCE)

Three sisters were laying lifelessly on the couch, with Index and Othinus housing themselves at Tsuchimikado household.

"Hey... maybe we should see what is on TV?" Kaibi asked blankly.

Rikuri shook her head. Her lower lip was trembling.

"Right now, the telenovela that we watched together weekly is about to start... but it's not the same without Touma"

"Then maybe... l-let's... order some food?"

"No... with each food that isn't from onii-chan, I am reminded that he is not here!"

"But... we can order oysters!"

"It's not the same without onii-chan feeding me them!" wailed Amazora, breaking into tears.

"Come on, we used to live alone for so many years. We can manage..."

"ONCE YOU TASTE THE FORBIDDEN FRUIT, YOU CAN'T GO BACK THAT EASILY KAIBI-SAN! I miss Touma so much!" Rikuri also started to clench her teeth to stop tears in her eyes" I know it's just for a week or so, but everything just reminds me of him. When I paint, I am reminded of our first date and museum exhibition. When I try to cook, I am reminded of blissfully watching him in the kitchen. I can't even going to bed without reminding myself that I am not going to snuggle with him there!"

"Rikuri nee-san, restrain yourself!"

"Then why are you crying as well?!"

"I... I am not"

"You are!"

"Something got into my eye!"

But after Kaibi turned around, she couldn't help but bit her lip while blush dusted her cheeks.

'Damn it... I am so jealous for those british girls... and also...'

Rikuri was right. Once bent on kicking Touma out, Kaibi could not imagine living without him. It was mere 3 days, but all of them felt as if suffering the withdrawal symptoms. And indeed, every moment without Touma reminded her of all the times they had together...

His stupid jokes. Their banter. Tango dance. Pool sessions. Walks to convenience store. Their fight, heart-to-heart moment and first kiss. Their proper date and confession of love. All the way that her annoyance slowly turned into comfortable and intimate blanket, that he wrapped around her with his mere presence.

Her hands tightened their hold on her crossed arms.

'I know it's for the greater good but hurry it up, you moron. There is someone right here who loves you, don't forget that'

(NEXT DAY)

8TH MEETING: MITSUARI AYU

In case of Mitsuari Ayu, the turn of events was similar to meeting with Shokuhou Misaki. Well, minus the whacky demon mom, that is.

This time around, Shiina and Ayu found themselves sitting near the now very familiar artificial lake. Although Ayu used to hate this place, she tried to go out of her comfort zone and face her remaining anxieties in that place.

Minutes ago, she committed to memory transfer and stunned Shiina was sitting in silence, contemplating what she just saw.

"I know that you might know parts of it if Shokuhou told you something, Shiina-san, but-"

"You poor girl. You know... I know you might have thought little of yourself in the past, but I think I know why Touma-san actually got attached to you in that first adventure of yours."

"Huh? Why is that?"

"I am sure he told you that, but my son was always misfortunate. I think he found a reflection of himself within you... and I am pretty sure you find the reflection of yourself within him too"

"That means..."

"Your presence, and his own fate reflecting in yours, could have been the foundation of his courage, that worries me so much but also makes me proud as a mother. I am sure he felt immensely bad because of your tragedy and you, albeit not through direct action, made him all the more determined to carry on his principles that he gained through your adventure"

"Those are very kind words... but back then I wasn't really anyone virtuous. If anything, I was overdramatic and made a mess for everyone. Your son included."

Shiina sighed and looked at the waters of the lake.

"We all make mistakes. You took a long way, but you learned from it. Living in our times, one may assume that everything is a race, but that's only true at the most superficial of levels. In the end, everyone is their own judge... and everyone must face their own actions, without exceptions"

Ayu smiled at that.

"You sound like Touma"

"I think you mean that Touma-san sounds like me. He inherited more than many can suspect while comparing me and him" Shiina tipped her hat while reciprocating the smile.

"Is that so?"

"Yes. I am sure Touya-san also gave something in this regard, but my punch is harder than it should for the woman of my build. We also have a remarkably similar facial expressions."

"You and your husband knew each other long time before Touma's brith?"

"Yes, basically since the end of elementary school... or maybe the very beginning of middle school"

"Oh, so young. That's very romantic."

"Maybe so... although all those others could not really say that..."

"What was that?"

"Nothing, dear. So what do you wish to do now?"

"Ugh, if I know anything, Shokuhou is already making plans with him! I can't be outdone!"

"Clearly, you have such an interesting relationship that something is bound to come out of it."

There were few more moments of silence, before Ayu took out her phone.

"Shiina-san, I think I can do something for you... as a thank you for such nice talk"

"Hmm? What do you have in mind?"

"Wait a second... this will only take a moment..."

BEEP!

Shiina's eyes widened, as tear suddenly run down her cheek. Ayu also wiped her eyes after few seconds.

"What did you do to me?"

"I... accessed your brightest memories from Touma's childhood and caused select few to become more vivid and clear. You can call it mental restoration"

"His first words... The flowers on mother's day when he was 4... I didn't know... I didn't know I still had that... thank you so much"

"You are more then welcome. Anytime"

9TH MEETING: KONGOU, WANNAI, AWATSUKI

Apparently, the shock and surprise would not leave Kamijou Shiina when she was in the city.

"It's such an honour to meet mother of the one I, Kongou Mitsuko, chose to be one to claim my heart" Kongou did a very exalted bow, followed by her friends.

"I am Wannai Kinuho"

"And I am Awatsuki Maaya. Forgive that we come all together, but to be honest, our relations with Touma-san are rather intertwined..."

Shiina of course recognized the surname Kongou. It was a big one. Anyone who ever flew from Japan heard it. And... to think that Touma managed to capture the heart of sole daughter of that family made Shiina want to rub her eyes and look again. However, the fact that the blushing girls were in front of her was irrefutable.

"Kongou-san..."

"Mitsuko will completely suffice. After all, I want Touma to call me that as well~"

'She is completely lovestruck! I shouldn't be surprised given what I had to go through with Touya-san, but... Touma-san, what in the world are you doing? And how?'

"Well then, Mitsuko-san, would you mind telling me what do you admire about my son? Your friends can share as well. I am interested to hear it"

"Oh, for one thing, he is quite a dashing gentleman. When we first met, he bravely stood in the way of fire for me! Even if he doesn't show this qualities all the time, it only makes the times in which he does shine brighter. He managed to overturn our assumptions about the lower level espers, entirely. I love that I can relax by his side without losing the sight of who I am. He always makes time for people and their needs."

"That's very true! He took time to help me when I had a deep crisis of my ability" Wannai added" He always cheered on me and was genuinely happy when I managed to advance. It felt as if in that moment the only thing that mattered to him was my happiness...o-or perhaps I am reading into it too much... but he is still so caring. He made all three of us a delicious get-well soup when we went down with a fever"

"Even if I wasn't convinced to him at first, he still wanted to see my genuine interests and spend time with me" Awatsuki said her part with a smile" He showed me so many interesting ways to spend time that common... I am sorry, people outside of School Garden engage in. Many of which I had no contact with. Not to mention, he actually made me more assured with my femininity. I cannot thank you enough for that."

"We decided to spend time with him whenever possible. It's quite challenging, given our different social ranks, but there are still moments when we can let loose." Kongou took out her phone and searched through it" Look! When we were walking together on the street, we were scouted to take part in the anime commercial!"

Shiina squinted her eyes looking at the photo of two teens.

"Why are you dressed like that?"

"Oh, that's just cosplay. Isn't it marvellous?"

"That's an interesting hat Touma-san has and that red vest too... are those snake-shaped earrings golden, Mitsuko-san?"

"I requested such and they let me keep them after shooting, I simply adore them."

"And that's quite bold dress. Why are you bending backwards while pointing forward, like this?"

"Just getting into character"

Meanwhile, Wannai whispered into Awatsuki's ear.

"It's incredible how much in her character Kongou-san was. She didn't even need to play lovestruck. She is always very dignified but almost fainted from joy when Touma-san hugged her. Ugh, I wanted to be in that place..."

"True, true. And Touma-san also played a part of ignorance well because he truly wanted the free food offered. I think he had fun too. He said that it was shame that his own fist could not stretch though, because it would save him time in fights"

"Moth... I mean, Shiina-san!" Kongou struck a pose with a triumphant grin" I need you to know that I am more than ready to take care of any potential financial problems Touma may have in the future. With all the respect, that would only take a small part of my allowance"

'So blinding! I expected such a rich lady to be more spoiled, but she is so sincere in this one that it's almost too dazzling' Shiina thought.

"Touma will not accept it though. He says he needs to take care of this of his own. Well, is stubborn, but this self-reliance is one of the things I lo.. love him for! Ah, I feel like I will self-ignite from my own passion!"

"I tried to raise him well, dear. Anyway... Wannai-san, you said you practice swimming?"

"Y-Yes! Both as a way to keep our health and to train my ability. Awatsuki is also part of swimming team."

"Oh, how lovely! I also spend a lot of time in water to increase my lung capacity for paragliding. I am not such expert in swimming itself, but should I ever be in the city again, maybe we can go swim together?"

"Of course, Kamijou-sama!"

10TH MEETING: LEIVINIA BIRDWAY

Yes... as you could have guessed, surprises continued.

Shiina could have expected a lot, but certainly not a small girl sitting in front of her with such confidently relaxed position that she looked as if she almost owned the world. And for some reason, this particular conversation was giving Shiina a bit of a headache.

"As I said before, it's good to meet you. The pleasure of us meeting is all yours"

"L-Leivinia-san... I am a little bit lost... you said you were interested in my son..."

"That much is obvious already. Do you have any questions for me?"

Yes, Shiina had lots of them. But she was becoming so confused by the blond girl from the UK that she actually couldn't formulate them.

First of all, that girl was appearing small harmless but spoke and acted as if she was not only an adult, but some big VIP. Even though they initially walked, Birdway called the luxurious car on a whim to drive them to restaurant. Even though she was clearly foreign, she spoke perfect japanese, with maybe a small trace of an english accent.

The blond girl, who Shiina thought was very cute looking upon first glance, turned out to be rollercoaster of opposite impressions. Even though she was extremely eloquent, with a tinged of superiority in her voice, and acting like an adult, she also got extremely frightened while startled by a balloon rabbit on their walk, which was carried by a small child. It lasted only a moment, but that moment of irrationality, she seemed like a girl of her age.

When she spoke with Shiina, she was polite, although not overly, but this clashed with authoritarian outbursts of power and wrath. When they were served their dishes, Leivinia gave it a gentle taste and a sniff, before wrinkling her nose and, after summoning the waiter, unleashing such an intense accusations about making food too spicy that poor girl looked as if she was a step away from being blasted away from the face of the earth.

"I do not do spices! How am I supposed to taste and enjoy my food like that?!"

Also, the tissue Birdway pulled out to tend to her nose had a rather infantile patterns on it, which clashed with clothes that seemed like something fit for a daughter of a noble lady from XIX century.

The food was replaced in the record speed.

Finally, Shiina could not make out who exactly Leivinia Birdway was to Touma. The girl could start speaking as if she was describing a typical boyfriend-girlfriend relationship, before switching smoothly to a way that a younger sister would use to describe her time with an older brother. She could speak of all the times they were fighting to suddenly starting to describe how they stood arm to arm as allies.

Because of that, Shiina broke her own rule and actually phoned Touma to inquire just what was his relationship with Birdway

"Yes"

"What do you mean with 'yes'?"

"Birdway is a bit extravagant. I think it's better to just roll with what she says. I am fine with everything either way"

That only served to make Shiina more baffled.

"Birdway-san..."

"Hmm?"

"You said that you are interested in my son in a more... partner-like way"

"Yes. That way I am both able to keep him close and make his life reasonably nice, as thank you for his bond with me"

"Right... but you also said that you desire to be his sister"

"That's right"

"..."

"?"

"You... You don't see any contradictions at all?"

"No, why do you ask?"

"I... you... well you see... it's like... because siblings don't... you and Touma-san..." Shiina tried valiantly, before sighing again" That's... complicated..."

"You know, Shiina-san, it really isn't all that tangled up. The most important thing is that we have our interests. He gets my back, and I his, if it's convenient enough, and if at some point our interests turn out to be... well, us, then it's all for the better."

"I have to admit... you are the most resolute but also the most mind boggling girl I have ever met"

"Eh, inborn talent. Praise me more!"

"I think I am going to need more tea for that..."

11TH MEETING: KUMOKAWA SERIA

"It's not a problem, is it? It started raining so I wanted to have a place to hide and since we were going to meet anyway..."

"That's perfectly alright Shiina-san. Please, make yourself at home" Kumokawa Seria gave Touma's mother an inviting wave.

"Thank you. What a nice and clean place you have. If it's not a problem, I need to dry myself off. Can I use the bathroom-"

"YES, BUT IT'S NOT THAT DOOR! Ekhm... I mean, please do, enter here!"

'I absoutely can't reveal to her that I shoved almost all of my mess, which consisted of half of the entire apartment, into that storage closet. I would rather die!'

When Shiina used the toilet, Seria quickly searched through the notes she made before the meeting.

"Alright, that should be it. It's rough and I didn't have much time, but I managed to gather some data on his mother. Combine that with my psychological prowess and it is bound to be a success!"

(FEW MINUTES LATER)

"So, Kumokawa-san, what are your interests?"

"Well, I am an expert in psychology and social sciences. Besides that I have many general interests"

"Is there anything you would like to do in the future?"

"Your so-" Kumokawa stopped herself, freezing in horror.

Did she seriously almost say what she thought she was about to say? Did that vulgarity almost escaped her lips?

In all fairness, she was having dirty thoughts about Touma on rather regular intervals, but she couldn't commit a sexually hinting Freudian Slip in front of the mother of his love interest. It was like revealing that one wanted to sleep with someone on the first date. What kind of idiot does that?"

(IN TOUMA'S OLD DORM)

Lessar's breath hitched.

"Achoo!"

Lancis and Floris watched as the contents of the plate of spaghetti soared into the air. They landed on both Bayloupe and freshly painted wall of Touma's dorm.

"Ugh..." Lessar smiled sheepishly" ...'scuse me?"

Two dark auras appeared around Touma and Bayloupe, which clashed with the fact that meatballs and noodles on silver haired girl's head appeared to form a smiley face at least in one spot.

"Lessar... what did I say about ruining my hair?" Bayloupe asked sweetly with dead-cold eyes.

"Lessar... did you intend to ruin my dorm and get it for the repaint for THIRD TIME THIS MONTH?!" Touma clenched his fist with dark smile

Bayloupe batted her eyelashes at Touma

"Would you mind holding her from behind for a moment?"

"Of course"

"L-Lover Boy, while you coming at me from this angle is one of the greatest dream I have in my life, you two are scaring me... B-Bayloupe... w-why are you grabbing your Steel Glove... no, no, wait, I just sneezed and tripped! I can't control my bodily functioaaaaaaaaah! N-Not the electric tickles... hyaaaaaaaah!"

(BACK WITH KUMOKAWA)

"Well, I think about working in the administration in the future. I am good at managing people and goods" Kumokawa finally replied.

"From what I saw in Ayu-san's memories, you and her were one of the first people to ever become Touma-san's friends. For that, you have my gratitude"

Seria smiled and shook her head

"It's nothing. If anything, it was life changing for me. At first I was only interested in him because of his attitude, but in time, I gained true appreciation of his mentality, which was different than mine in many respects. It is very true to say that he changed my perspective on life and give me new appreciation for it. I often regret that I can't do more to prevent him from getting into trouble... but honestly, he escapes all logic with his behaviour"

"You don't have to tell me that, Kumokawa-san. I am his mother after all. Still... it's comforting that someone reasonable and intelligent can be by his side when moment calls. Which reminds me... if you are certain of your feelings for my son, what kind of thinks makes you think that you can assume the advantage over the other rivals?"

Kumokawa smiled and nodded

"Excellent question. I have good and bad sides, like every one of us, but I think the most convincing argument would be the fact that he likes me and I certainly do like him back"

"Truly? Did you by chance... talk about it?"

"Yes, we did. Although... he is still undecided. While I would like for him to just throw everything away and make a selection now, I understand that he is bombarded with attention right now"

"You are quite mature for your age, Kumokawa-san"

Two females observed the view of the city that could be seen from the apartament's window, before Shiina shifted slightly on her chair.

"Kumokawa-san... I hope this is not a question that will offend you, but do your skills... include information gathering?"

The raven-haired girl appeared surprised for a moment, before crossing her hands under her ample bosom.

"I do have good ears, yes. But mostly for what's happening in Academy City. Why do you ask?"

"I would like to request a favour for something that was bothering me..."

(THAT NIGHT)

As Shiina went to sleep, two goddesses watched soundlessly, deep in thought.

"Niang-Niang, do you think that it would be too much of a shock if we revealed the fact that we take part in that race as well?" Nephthys mused.

"Well, mortals are particularly delicate. Besides, the integration of phases is something that might be a good surprise. We probably shouldn't reveal ourselves to her as of yet." Niang-Niang looked at the slumbering woman, before putting her fingers in pre-snap position" Though I think we can leave her a souvenir."

(MEANWHILE)

Shiina found herself in white void. She blinked in confusion.

"What kind of dream is this?"

"Kamijou Shiina..."

A bellowing voice came down as the light parted and a short silhouette in a veil stepped out and raised a hand. Niang-Niang, because that was the person stepping into Shiina's dream, spoke.

"Do not fear. I..."

"Who are you?"

"I was getting to that... do not fear, for I am the one you call god"

Shiina tilted her head.

"If you are a god, why are you purple?"

"Wh... you don't just ask gods why they are purple! I-I mean... Kamijou Shiina, fear not! Because the future of your son, while covered in shadow, may lead to light brighter than anything ever saw on this earth"

And in one moment Shiina noticed a small marching crowd in the distance. They were children. Varying in ages, but still very young, marching together in the very large group. Stronger and older teenagers in the front, while younger ones in the center and back, as if instinctively protected.

The group consisted of people of different skin tones, hair and eye colours. Each posture and way of walking was slightly different, as well as attitude every teen and child was giving off. But while looking at all of them, Shiina couldn't help but think that there was some underlying connection between them. Something that was on the back of her head, but she couldn't quite grasp.

"Kamijou Shiina, there will come many generations because of you" said the voice next to her.

The dream started to blur. Shiina was to later completely forget its contents, leaving only imprecise feelings, but as she looked at the crowd of teenagers and smaller kids, she noticed that each one of them was saying something. Like before, each of the girls and boys said it in their own way, some quirkily, some shyly, some looking at her, some less surely.

Shiina's mind, on the verge of awakening, finally understood.

But it was so absurd that she almost instantly denied. It wasn't possible, was it?

Each of the children in her dream said the same 3 syllables.

O - ba - san

Grandmother.

12TH MEETING: SATEN, UIHARU, KUROKO, KONORI

"So this is a Judgement office I heard about" Shiina looked around the branch, while nodding in appreciation" You have it quite cozy in here."

"Thank you, I do my best" Konori Mii bowed in appreciation" Although there are some people who could do some paperwork so the desks wouldn't be layered with them."

She glanced at Shirai Kuroko, who tried to both pretend to read the document and glance at Shiina at the same time.

'Unbelievable! To think the ape came out of the womb of woman with such grace and style. This is something that really makes me rethink things. Maybe those weird things I am feeling are caused by her side of genetic input-'

"Moshi moshi? Judgement's #1 Pervert Shirai-san?"

"Huh? U-Uiharu, don't call me that in front of-"

"... someone who you want to impress?"

"N-No! Why would I want to impress ape's mother? I would do that only if I was in some way interested in... oh, you take that back! And stop wiggling your eyebrows at me!"

"If you are not that stressed, just say casual hello"

"H-Huh, big deal. I will say it!"

"Go on"

"I will!"

"I am waiting"

"I am completely read-"

"You must be Shirai Kuroko, Misaka-san's roommate. She and Touma-san mentioned you " came Shiina's voice from behind Kuroko's back" It's a pleasure to finally meet you"

Kuroko jumped and accidentally teleported straight into the pile of cardboard in the corner of the room, falling into them with a great boom.

"L-Likewise..." she groaned out of the mess.

'Yup. At this point she is fooling no one'' Uiharu thought flatly.

"Saten-san, do you have one of those delicious mochi cakes?" Shiina asked to yet another girl in the office.

While Shiina tried not to show any favouritism while meeting with Touma's friends, Saten Ruiko, the one that the meeting was originally for, managed to steal her heart with just a smile, and a prepared meal she made for this occasion.

Apparently, Saten met on Touma on the Daihaseisai festival, the very same time Shiina was in the city last time. Although they did not meet for some time after that, they kept in touch through phone and formed a bond, that would bloom stronger once they finally reunited recently. Shiina could not help but admire the energy and cheerfulness of the girl in front of her. Even if her own personality would never allow her to do what Saten did in her stories...

'This type of girl would be perfect for Touma-san. She cooks very good, so good that it would charm anyone. And this simple sincerity, this joyfulness and optimism... Touma-san needs that in his life. I have no doubt that the friendship with this girl will bring him great deal of good in the future. Oh, but when I think about it, Saten-san and Itsuwa-san do share certain similar qualities. This is quite the conundrum... but for the sake of retaining sense of sincere laughter in those troubled times, please do try to get together with my son, Saten-san...'

Konori Mii smiled, putting a hand over Saten's shoulder.

"I think Touma's mom really warmed up to you. Which looks like an achievement. Those proper and dignified mothers don't exactly shower people with praise left and right"

Saten faced away with a small smile and a blush.

"No, that can't be right. I didn't do anything to make her like me that much"

"And that's why you score lot of points. When you can gain advantage through the most simple of things, it means you are really special."

"Konori-senpai... thanks a bunch. That's a really nice thing to say"

"I am not losing though. Thanks to you, I now feel extra motivated. I will think of doing something nice for Shiina-san."

As she walked away, Saten could not help but feel her lips form a huge grin. That in itself wouldn't be surprising after all. But...

'I knew it! When I think about pursuing Touma-san... I actually feel the happiness welling within myself. I don't care about anything else that was troubling me, not even my level 0 status. Being in love may be scary... but it's really awesome too!'

13TH MEETING: FUKIYOSE & HIMEGAMI

"Wow... who is this super hot babe?!"

WHAM!

"You idiot! That's Kamijou's mother!"

"The forbidden fruit tastes all the sweete-"

Fukiyose punched Aogami so hard that he flew through half of the patio in front of the CHS.

"I am terribly sorry for that, Shiina-san. Those idiots just never learn!"

"Well, it's nice to see that there is one young woman with strong sense of responsibility and order around here" Shiina commented slowly" But that begs a question... do you toss my son around too?"

Fukiyose suddenly went stiff

"If we are talking in present tense... no... but..."

Shiina's eyebrow shot up, as the girl in front of her sighed

"... I used to mess up in the past. I did show him a piece of my mind... well, many times actually. But we talked about it and I... confessed that I only did that because it worried me how stupid is that someone who is my friend gets to so much trouble, without even having any backup. Those were my actual feelings and I sort of... converted them into punches, because I couldn't say them"

"Well, as long as you know it was wrong" Shiina nodded" There is nothing wrong with enforcing discipline. But Touma-san has enough pain in his life without even seeking it. He doesn't need people accusing him of-"

"I get it, I get it!"

"But even so... I am happy that in his very class his has both male and female friends who actually worry about him like this... that was... well, something like this almost didn't exist in the first stage of his life. So people like you and Himegami-san are something he surely treasures... oh... what's happening with Himegami-san?"

The miko girl was bathed in the sunlight coming from above. She had the gentle smile of divine enlightenment on her face and there were two twin streams of tears flowing down her cheeks.

'Shiina-san... remembered my name. Thirty minutes passed since we were introduced, but she still remembers me. I am still someone worth remembering in her mind. Not to mention, she said that Touma may treasure me. I am so touched! So moved! I can die happy now!'

Shiina and Fukiyose looked at serene Himegami with confusion in their eyes.

"Is she okay?"

"Yes, she should be. She gets like this sometimes."

"I got to ask... are those natural?"

"You mean my... o-of course, they are natural! S-Someone already asked me this before... do they look artificial?"

"No, no, gods forbid, it's just that I think it would be an effort worth honouring-"

"I-I-I may like like him now, but that doesn't mean that I would grow my breasts specifically for him. What kind of person would enhance her growth to meet someone's tastes?! They are either extremely devoted or perverted"

(MEANWHILE)

"Achoo!"

In one of Tokiwdai's classroom's, Shokuhou Misaki sneezed... which caused her chest, that used to be much smaller at the beginning of middle school, to bounce.

(AND BACK...)

"Himegami-san, are you a shrine maiden?"

"N-No, I am not... but I do own miko clothes."

"Why is that? Do you like shrine rituals?"

"I like to think that the best miko priestesses are remembered by gods. So I wear those clothes to keep myself positive that at least gods may remember me... because humans don't seem to"

"You... you like dark humour, Himegami-san?"

"That wasn't a joke, it was a fact"

"I... I don't know how to retort with this sentence"

"Well, as long as Kamijou remembers, then I will be satisfied either way"

14TH MEETING: HOKAZE JUNKO & SOGIITA GUNHA

"It is an honour to meet you, Kamijou-sama" Junko bowed elegantly in front of Shiina.

"What's up, Kamijou's mother?" Gunha made a salute and grinned.

Out of all the locations for her meetings, this was probably the most spectacular.

They were on the top one of the skyscrapers... and with a paragliding equipment by their sides.

"I must thank you for agreeing with this crazy plan of mine" Shiina said, checking up the gear.

"It's alright, Kamijou-sama. If anything, this is rather exciting!" Junko said, checking her own glider" Am I doing everything right?"

"Yes, you are. I always wanted to see this city from paraglider, but I would honestly be slightly intimidated in this environment without a partner. And friend of both Misaki-san and Touma-san is no less than perfect. Thank you for coming to you as well, Sogiita-san. Touma-san always speaks of you through the phone with... good nostalgia would be correct description. Like that unimaginable friendship you boys have during teenage years, that we girls seem to have only a glimpse of comprehension of. My husband got particularly excited while watching you in Daihaseisai. It's just that we don't really understand your ability. Is it-"

"Nice to meet you to!" Gunha shouted cherfully, before shaking his head" As for my ability, is not something you understand! The guts is something you feel as inner fire!"

"You... set your intestines on fire?"

"Huh? What intestines?"

"N-Nevermind. Quite a peculiar boy you are... but I am happy that you and Touma-san find common language. He needs a male friend like you. I know that there are others, but I sense an underlying common ground with you two"

"Yup, that's my gutsy bro! We like brothers from another mothers!"

Shiina narrowed her eyes.

"I wouldn't phrase it like that... because someone's health can suffer severe repercussions~"

(MEANWHILE, ELSEWHERE IN JAPAN)

Kamijou Touya shivered with his entire body while in the office.

His coworker looked at him in confusion.

"Touya-san? Is AC acting up? Or are you coming down with something?"

Touya rubbed his neck and then arms, trying to get rid of the chill her felt.

"It's nothing. Just... for some reason, I felt murderous intent on me"

(AND BACK...)

"Gunha-san, are you sure you don't need a glider?"

"Nah, that piece of metal would only restrain my guts! I can move through the air without it. If something happens, I will be there to catch you"

"Alright then... Junko-san, please double check the safety features"

"Yes, Kamijou-sama."

"And please, do call me Shiina."

"Yes, Shiina-san. Everything in place"

"Alright then... here...we... go!"

(MEANWHILE AT TOUMA'S OLD DORM)

"Hey Kamijou!"

Touma screamed as Niang-Niang and Nephthys appeared in the middle of the empty room.

"Gah! Can you please stop appearing outthe blue? Well, at least we have some space, because Lessar and company went to see some movie"

"Are you feeling fine?" asked Nephthys

"Well... I am glad that my mom gets to have fun around here. But honestly... there is a lot on my mind. There are many things that need my attention. But most importantly... Kamjou No Touma is still lurking around. And worst of all, he is messing with my mental endurance. Geh, at this point I think telling my mother than I will be a father of 37 is somehow easier..."

"38... for now"

"Because I wish to... wait? What did you just say?"

"Niang-Niang, you spoiler bringer! You blabbed it out!"

"Wait wait wait... you said 38" Touma said, counting on his fingers" I only recall 37 of my... wow, this still sounds so strange... my children. So what is this about 38th? Who is the mother?"

"Well, she should be flying above Tokiwadai with your mother right now"

Touma's eyes widened and he shot up, pointing straight at the goddesses.

"Undo this"

"Wait, that's-"

"Gunha and Junko are friends to me and I don't wish to get between the relationship they clearly have going, from the time before I came into the equation."

"But-"

"I am not ruining everything like this. I will not-"

"KAMIJOU TOUMA!" Nephthys raised her voice, making the voices of Touma and Niang-Niang die down. She then cleared her throat and explained in a calmer tone.

"We had a good reason for this and I suspected that you will react like you did now. But... just hear us out."

SNAP!

Hokaze Junko, now appearing as adult woman in prime of her youth, screamed loudly. Older versions of Touma, Gunha, and Misaki tried to do their best to soothe the suffering of the childbearing Junko.

She had her hands clasped on both Touma's and Gunha's hands, while trying to breathe regularly. Meanwhile Misaki helped to organize labour supplies, like hot water, towels, and coordinated the efforts of various nurses.

"It's taking rather long, doesn't it?" Touma said, wiping the sweat of girl's forehead.

"Because those are twins. " she whispered, wincing" It takes some effort and time... but I will pull through"

"Do not falter, Junko! And give it your all babies, give it your beeeeest!"

"AAAAAAAAGH!

"UGGGGGGHHH!

Three screams, first from Gunha, who was quite vividly motivating the babies to come out, second from Junko in painful contractions, and third from Touma, who was getting his wrist crushed in the purple haired woman's grip, echoed through some time.

Until...

Two screams of much younger origin came into the world. Misaki, looking as if she was sucked into a tornado, leaned on the wall.

"Junko-san... you are a mommy now"

Junko took two newborns into her arms with a delicate grin of absolute adoration.

"Thank you everyone... thank you so much"

FLASH!

The vision ended and Touma blinked few times, before seeing the goddesses once again.

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

"In the possible future that we are trying to achieve, miss Hokaze Junko gave birth to two twin babies of different genders. In other words, a boy and a girl." said Niang-Niang.

"Alright... and?"

"Originally... there was one"

"What?!"

"There is a future, quite improbable one at that, when you and Hokaze Junko did try to date and become parents"

"Ah! What was the other me thinking?!"

"Don't blame yourself. Those parallel timelines can get really varied. Maybe he had reasons for it. Whatever was the history behind it, Hokaze Junko got pregnant... but she wasn't meant to deliver the baby"

"But I saw-"

"We are almost at it. "Nephthys explained" You see, that Hokaze Junko with which some incredibly rare version of you had a baby was meant to miscarry and lose the child alongside her life. But I took pity in the mourning that could have resulted from that and used magic to swap the wombs the baby was in, saving both the child and mother. From one Hokaze Junko to another, with everyone thinking that there were two babies from the beginning"

Touma blinked, pieces slowly coming together.

"It's sort of like what Aiwass did with Lilith... wait, let me get this straight... so you are telling me that you displaced a child from version of Hokaze-san that would miscarry to the one that was the one in the future phase... while she already had a child with Sogiita. But that means... each of the two children is from the different father, one from me and one from Sogiita, while I never even slept with that version of Hokaze Junko to begin with!"

"Yup, pretty much. Congrats, you have a child without actually messing up your friends intimate relationship. Both of those Hokaze Junko were basically different alternations of the same human"

Touma facepalmed hard.

"Why do you Magic Gods enjoying messing stuff up so much? But I guess... if you saved a baby and one of those possible Junkos... then I can't really complain that much. As for those children... I know Junko... Junko-sans... you know, she is the mother, but which one is supposed to be mine?"

There was silence.

"Oh come on, you can't leave me on that! Don't tell me I am gonna find out the long way around! Come back here!"

(ONE DAY LATER, ON THE AIRPORT)

"Well, it was a nice time while it lasted." Shiina smiled to Touma" Index-san, please, take care of him. Can I trust you on that?"

"Of course" Index smiled and shook hand with Shiina" You can count on me, madam"

Shiina nodded, before turning to Touma with a serious look on her face, mother and son having a private conversation before Shiina departed.

"Touma-san... I think we both know that there is something that you are bound to share with me and your father."

"Yeah, I guess I know what you mean"

"Your life appears so much bigger than we would ever dream. But there are many unknowns and I think all of this is getting much deeper than I can see now"

Touma was about to say something more, but Shiina stopped him

"You are almost an adult now. I would be a bad mother if I didn't respect your personal space, and that includes right to keep things to yourself. However, I trust that when the right times, we can all talk about your life up until now. Can we make a deal like this?"

"O-Of course, mom. Thank you for visiting. I mean it. It seems Kaibi and the girls will miss you too. Even if was just a few days and couple of moments, they seem to grow to like you"

"Be sure to thank them, feeling is mutual. Be sure to spend some time with them now when you get back to your apartment. They surely missed you too"

"Right, I will...w-wait, t-that's not my apartment! Y-You know where I live, it's..."

"Touma-san, as long as you act reasonably, I will let this slide, so don't act dumbly in front of me"

"Y-Yes, mother. How long since you knew?"

"We were meeting together with Gokusai-san and the others every evening. I figured it out through your conversations... I think it was our second encounter"

"Alright... mother... I have to ask you one more thing. You are not mad at the... attention I have around me? You were meeting the girls, so..."

Shiina let out an ojou-sama chuckle, putting her hand on her lips.

"Oh, Touma-san, of course I am not mad. If anything, I am happy that so many people appreciate you"

"Huh?"

"I have to admit, I can't decide over those girls as well. Each contributes a part of the picture of happiness. Kindness, determination, humour, wealth, strength... But as it is now, there is no problem. There are multiple people pursuing you. That's perfectly alright. If you were going after multiple people at once though, it would be a different story... ohohohoho..."

Touma felt as if he was actually shrinking under the force of the dark smile.

'I am sorry mom... but for that future, I am going to have to do it! Once I saw those people... those children who are meant to be mine... I can't just let them never come to be.'

"Please, phone regularly. Eat healthy meals at proper hours. Dress accordingly to the weather. And while I realize that might be senseless plea, do try to stay out of trouble. If not for yourself, then for me, your father, and all those people that care about you"

"Yes, you don't have to worry about it. Oh, and mom..."

"Yes?"

"Thank you. For caring for me. That really means a lot"

"I am your mother, Touma-san. No matter what I do or how strict I act, I am doing this for your sake. I might not be perfect, but I can promise that I will always cherish and protect you. That goes without saying"

As Touma and Index waved her goodbye and then disappeared behind the curvature of the passage, Shiina bumped into another woman while walking to the check-in point.

"I am sorry"

"No, that was my fault"

Shiina got up before the woman spoke up

"Are you by chance a mother of a student in this city?"

"Why yes. You too?"

The blond woman in beige habit smiled in melancholy.

"Not really. I was a fath... mother once though. Now I am retired from the job I once had in this city, and I am travelling. That's all it is to it."

"My condolences. But... retired? You look so young"

"That's only the body, my dear. Sometimes there are other reasons to step down."

Before the bewildered Shiina could ask anything, the blond gave her a question of her own.

"How do you feel about your child being in Academy City?"

"Why are you curious, miss..."

"Crowley"

"Crowley... I think I heard this somewhere..."

"It's a british surname. Also, one of the leading figures in this city went by it."

"You are from abroad? Quite far away from home"

"Indeed I am. In more ways than one"

"As for your question... I truly didn't know. For a while, I thought that sending my son here will save him from his misfortune. But then it turned out that those accidents never stopped happening to him, instead only changed their nature. They came from left and right. From what I heard from his teacher, the amount was unnatural. You might think that this sounds crazy... but there were moments as if this whole place was created to torment him"

Aleister's eyes moved in a fraction of a surprised moment, before Shiina laughed, waving her hand.

"But that's just absurd. Who would have get out of the way to do such a thing to my son?"

The blond didn't move even a muscle as Shiina moved past her. Until...

"Miss... this might sound hollow but don't lose hope. This city is called the city of science but at its foundations sleep the miracles. It just might happen that this boy can become the most important person through that belief"

Shiina stopped before slowly saying

"He already is. He's my son. And as much as feelings of the mother keep saying to guard him, I can't help but be proud of the way he is too. He might keep falling down, but he has a great talent of turning losses into potential victories."

There was an announcement through the speakers and Shiina blinked in recognition.

"I am sorry, I have to go. Farewell and have a good day"

Aleister watched Kamijou Shiina with distant eyes, before sighing and walking away into the crowd of people.

"In each loss lies a chance for potential victory... was it?"

(AN HOUR LATER, IN KAMIJOU + GOKUSAI RESIDENCE)

"Hey everyone, I am back... ugh!"

Something similar to a blond and pink missile shot from the corridor and crashed into him, throwing arms around his neck.

"Amazora?"

With face completely drenched with tears of happiness, Amazora was half crying, half laughing while hugging him.

"UWAAAAAAAAAAH! Kai onee-chan! Riku onee-chan! Onii- chan is baaaaaaaaaack!"

There was a loud breaking noise and Rikuri came from around the corner so fast that she slammed into the corridor's wall and spun around like a ballerina in a daze, with her long violet dress fluttering around, before she focused on Touma.

Seeing her magenta-pink eyes glimmer with tears, Touma chuckled slightly

"H-Hey, Riku..."

This time he was slammed face first into Rikuri's chest which in a way resembled being suddenly exposed to two soft, warm airbags. As the oldest girl also snuggled close to him, he felt her heartbeat next to his body. Her long blond hair drapped over him like a waterfall of gold. She was managing to overload nearly half of his senses in one moment.

"I-I had an inkling..." Rikuri's voice had a slightly nasal tone, indication that she cried not so long ago, as her eyes, draped with long, slightly wet eyelashes, also appeared a bit puffy" that this withdrawal from you will be hard. But this is worst than the after effects of any of my drugs! Dear me, I didn't expect this to be so bad. My heart hurt and I saw you wherever I looked!"

One could call those reactions severely overdramatic and from the outside perspective, he would be right. But from different side of the story, all 3 of Gokusai sisters: Amazora, Kaibi, and Rikuri, weren't genuinely in love before. Through their own ways, each of them fell for Kamijou Touma and lived with him for a while. This was an invigorating sensation and, willingly or not, the fact that he decided to live away for a few days did not went without repercussions.

There was a sound of footsteps. And as Rikuri shifted her body, Touma saw approaching Kaibi. She closed in, before finally stopping in front of him with crossed arms.

"You took your sweet time"

Then, to Touma's astonishment, she raised her hand and slightly lifted Touma's face, looking at him with narrowed eyes.

"Kai...bi?..."

But Touma already knew that Kaibi had a different intention. The corners of her mouth and change in her eyes betrayed her, as the girl closed the distance, kissing him on the lips in a fond and blissful way, making him feel as if both his own lips and mind were melting into gentle warmth.

After a moment, Kaibi pulled away, with Touma being able to see his own reflection in her gem-like eyes, which sparked with suddenly released emotions.

"Welcome home" she said in a much more affectionate tone.

Touma smiled back.

"I missed you too. All of you"

"Hmph, that sister of mine. Since she got the kiss, I am not letting you go for the next hour. Nom!"

"R-Rikuri-san, p-please don't chew on my ear!"

"Everyone, let's do a sibling hug!" said Amazora. "1...2...3... hug!"

Without much of a hesitation, all 4 of them hugged together. It lasted for a moment, until...

"Touma!" came the voice of Index behind them" I can get that I need to work on non-biting you, but why do you have to lead me to temptation? I lived and was by your side much earlier, so obviously I have the greater privileges!"

"N-No, Index, stop! Amazora and Rikuri are still on me... I can't hold all of you... no, don't try to... aaaaaaaaaaaaah!"

(FEW HOURS LATER, IN KAMIJOU SUMMER HOUSE)

Kamijou Shiina was sitting on the sofa on the summer house veranda. She could hear the sounds of the ocean from the distance, but that was not what she was focused on.

"Ne, ne, Shi-chan..." came the voice of Misaka Misuzu, echoing from the speaker of Shiina's phone" Can you finally tell me what is it that you discovered?"

Shiina put a hand to her mouth, looking at the scanned documents, photos, and notes sent to her by Kumokawa Seria. It was gathered fast, absurdly fast even.

"Well, Misuzu-san, there was something that was bothering me in the looks of some of those girls. So when I realized one of Touma-san's friends was good in information gathering, I asked for a favour. And the results are... well... incredibly ridiculous"

"In what way?"

"Do you remember how I told you about the fact that my husband, consciously or not, was very popular with girls, and I had to stand my ground, using various tactics to claim my place by his side?"

"Yes, I do. What about it?"

"Well, it's about those girls... it sounds incredulous, but... it turns out that my own rivals, the girls I ultimately defeated in those battles for affection, are related to the girls that are now around my son"

There was deafening silence on the other side of the phone, before Misuzu exclaimed

"No way. But... that's seems improbable!"

"Well, it's not like they were all my proper rivals from all of the period I knew Touma-san, but the fact is that most of those women... mostly mothers of those girls, with one or two aunts I think... met Touya-san at least at some point in his life, on varying level on relationship and various circumstances... that almost always linked with some romantic misadventure. Like I said, I didn't know all of those encounters and when it comes to those I knew of, my former rivals eventually got married and because of that, changed their maiden names..."

"So... what you're gonna do about it?"

Shiina laughed quietly, tracing her finger down the list of names.

"Nothing, of course. While I am concerned about my son finding a good wife, I will not mess up new generation's romances. This just shows me how small world really is. And that what goes around, comes around. Still... this is a concept to think about."

Just then, there was another call to Shiina. As the caller was unknown, Shiina tried to ignore it, but whoever it was, he or she was persistent.

"I am sorry, dear, but I must take this"

And when she picked up...

"Excuse me, miss Kamijou Shiina? Did I get that right?"

"Yes, but... who is this?"

"Oh, right. My name is Rimea Windsor. I am the first princess of British Royal Family, heir to the throne of United Kingdom"

A somewhat distorted yet loud Rule Brittania jingle sounded from the background.

After a moment of silence, Shiina finally gained control of her mouth again

"Is this some sort of a joke? How did you get that number? Miss..."

"Rimea Windsor, heir to the throne-"

Another Rule Brittania rang out.

"Mother, please, stop playing that over my ear!"

"Oh, I just wanted to give you an epic accompaniment. Boo hoo~"

"Well, as I was saying, no, this is not a joke, it is as far from it as it can be. We learned through our representatives in Academy City that you, madam Shiina, conducted a series of meetings with ones connected to Kamijou Touma. Then we should not be left behind in such things"

"Wha... how... Touma-san... we?"

"We being me and my sisters. I would like to express my gratitude. Although the nature of my relationship with him is confidential, he is doing a great effort in supporting me in becoming a future queen. You raised a wonderful gentleman, Mrs. Shiina, and your family can considered themselves a friend of our own family"

"Oh, indeed" chimed in a different female voice" Oh, my name is Villian and I am the third princess. My sister is literally reading a script she write for this conversation, she can be a little awkward at times with things like speaking to the mother of the guy she... oh, oh, she is giving me that icy glare... anyway, I just wanted to tell you that I also deeply admire Touma. Whenever he is, I always send best wishes to him and I am always happy if I manage to get a word with him"

Shiina was still in such a shock that she didn't managed to speak even a single syllable.

"My sisters wanted to make video calls with you, so I will arrange some in the upcoming days. Don't mind Carissa too. She can be a little brash, but she was secretly excited at this. I-"

There was an explosion and third voice, roaring 'VILLIAN!' through the communication channel.

"I-I wasn't ready... I mean, don't phone to her! DAMN IT!

"Oh, she found out that we are-"

There was a loud noise, Rimea loudly saying something over the line, which was followed by another angry scream of Carissa, and what sounded like pieces of metal falling to the floor, before the line went silent.

Wide eyed Shiina stared at her phone, before Misuzu, who was still on the line, spoke

"Umm... Shi-chan?"

"I think I am going to make an exception... and get a drink after what I just heard"

(SOME TIME LATER IN THE ALLEYS NEAR KAMIJOU + GOKUSAI RESIDENCE)

After making sure that no one could hear him exit, Touma found his way to one of the alleys near the wider street by the side of which the apartment complex was located. As he looked away, a female voice spoke.

"I am surprised. I didn't expect to be sought by you first"

Ladylee Tangleroad waved at him from the shadows.

"I still found it weird how you managed to get my number and send me yours"

"Don't think about it too much. I am quite an adaptive lady. When you summoned me, I came to you. So what do you need from a beautiful and humble immortal during such lovely nightfall? Or maybe..."

Touma stood in silence for couple of seconds, before sighing and raising his head.

"Ladylee, I've been thinking about our earlier encounter and I... I agree. I will help you and lead you to your death"

"Really?" something akin to hope combined with surprise glowed in Ladylee's eyes, but Touma raised his hand in an authoritative manner.

"I will do it, you have my word... but on two conditions. One long term and one short term"

"Conditions?" Ladyless said slowly, before shrugging" Huh, let's hear them. I don't have anything to lose"

"Firstly, I will not kill you. If we are going to do this, we will do this my way. Which means that you will give me time to try and make you regain what you lost, to give you hope, before moving to what you speak of"

Ladylee laughed quietly, shaking her head.

"What I've lost..."

Even if she didn't desire it, those words brought some memories.

The feeling of sea salt tickling her nose and throat.

The hands and smile of her mother.

The shack on the hill with cypresses.

Going to the small village for wood and supplies.

Venturing into caverns and exploring the arcane soothsaying and divination.

The face of the injured solider and her own scream of fright.

His stories of lands far an unknown.

Her efforts to bring him peace and comfort.

His last wish and gift to her.

The golden fruit emanating soft glow, unlike any other on earth, and her own teeth sinking into it.

The one swallowed bite that changed her forever.

There was a lot more to story of that single girl, but for now, she shook her head

"Those things can't be brought back. I've seen too much and I've felt too much"

Touma grit his teeth so hard that he felt pain spreading through jaw, before saying

"But that's all the more of a reason. I am sorry Ladylee, I can't abandon you. I can't look away from you and just try to kill you. Not when you feel so hollow. I am not... I am not saying that you shouldn't die at all, if that's your wish. I am just saying that I will do everything to give you a reason to remember what it's like to cherish life before death"

"And how do you intend to do that?"

"I don't know yet. But please, let me do this for you. I will try my hardest for you. Just please... live on and try for a little longer."

Ladylee sighed and waved her hand.

"Alright, alright, I will go along with it. I lived over 8 centuries, I can live a couple more decades. But I hope that you will kill me for good when it doesn't work out"

"It will work out. I will get your joy back"

"Fine, fine... so, what about the second condition"

"That's... actually more of a request... though I will reconsider pulling back from the deal if you refuse"

"Colour me intrigued. Do tell what's on your mind"

"I want you to ally with me... against my darker side"

"Huh?"

"I will explain..."

(AFTER EXPLANATION OF ORIGIN OF KAMIJOU NO TOUMA AND CURRENT SITUATION)

"That's an interesting situation. It can actually be rather amusing to observe and engage in, with how much is at stake... fine, I will see where this goes. I will conditionally ally myself with you." Ladylee extended her hand" So you better keep your promise"

Touma nodded with a serious face and shook the girl's hand.

"I will, but remember what we talked about"

"Sure. Although I must admit, you claim that this other you is all malice and stuff, but you too seem to have a little bite. It's much easier to ally yourself with someone who is incapable of dying. Does this make your conscience lighter?"

"No... that may be true, but it was not my main reason for contacting you"

"You won't tell me, huh... a mysterious man... I admit... this kind of an attractive quality in you, specifically"

"W-Why did you just lick your lips? Ladylee?"

"Let's get something to eat"

"D-Don't divert my remark and also, I can't. The girls think I will be back any moment now..."

"Come on, let's go!"

"You said that you don't need to eat"

"Don't need, doesn't mean that I don't want from time to time. Oh, and one more thing... why did you even think of alliance in the first place?"

"Well, that's because... I am sure he already thought of something like this much earlier. He is far stronger than he lets on. And I think... there may be a spy somewhere in my surroundings. It's just a feeling... but I wanted an ally to keep the balance on the sides. You can never be too careful with that guy"

(SOME TIME LATER, IN STUDENT DORM SOMEWHERE IN ACADEMY CITY)

"See you tomorrow"

"Yes, have a good night"

A girl closed the doors to her dorm after bidding her friend farewell for the day.

She put her bags on the ground and walked over to the desk by one of the room's walls.

The mysterious girl sat down, pulled out her phone, and after searching recorder messages, she found the one she was searching for, the most fresh out of all them.

'Do continue your work' the silky smooth voice came from the phone' If I was him, and I unfortunately am to some degree, I would think of some form of retaliation. Find out if he is making any moves and report them to me. If you do as I say, you will be rewarded!'

It was a recording. She could not respond to it.

Kamijou no Touma wasn't in fact sitting idly by. Without his other side's knowledge, he searched every crack in Touma's consciousness he could use to take control. And during such escapades, he encountered a very unexpected ally... from even more unexpected place.

However, she proved to be capable. And although she didn't understand the situation well, her motivation alone made her an excellent ally.

Said girl smiled sweetly.

"I don't want any trouble." she said to herself, musing over what she heard." But that guy actually promised knew what I wanted the most... my greatest secret ever since enrolling in the school..."

She flipped the switch, making a board over the desk light up.

It was filled with photos. Of various locations and taken in various circumstances, dozens of them. But all were linked by one factor...

A single boy was on every single of them.

Kamijou Touma

"Oh, Kamijou-san, I've long since wanted to have you... to say that I want to be with you and you alone... I have enough devotion to fill all those empty cups that are other girls around you... why can't we share it... the main stage..." the girl whispered.

The girls cheeks flushed when she reached to stroke a line of photos on the board. On those, she was also present. But with glossy eyes, she looked more feverish than happy, as her cheeks got even hotter.

"But others... always get in the way... thanks to them, I am always confined to the background. Well, with his help... this will be no more."

She looked at the photos of various girls, with crossed out eyes, with those depictions being partially shredded or burnt.

She slowly took a photo of a spiky haired boy in her hand and smiled.

"Yes, with his help... I will become a lead actress in this drama called life... and I ensure that there are no nuisances bothering us... with you being mine... and only... mine"

(TO BE CONTINUED)

And here we are after this colossus of a chapter... what an adventure for writing and experiencing. This time, our main heroine was Touma's mother, and future generation's grandmother, Shiina. I decided that while Touya was a bit fleshed out in Angel Fall, Shiina didn't get as much spotlight, at least not the amount that was satisfactory for me. So I went for fixing it.

The culmination is slowly taking heavily steps towards us... both Touma and KNT found themselves allies. Do you have an inkling who is the girl in the ending scene? I thought that Touma needed a proper yandere in his life, and well... there we went.

I have to quickly mention one thing: unfortunately, there was no way for Shiina to meet every single one of the harem members, and regretfully, it was even more unrealistic to have her interact with them for a very long time. This chapter is big enough as it is. So we don't have meeting with Arisa/Shutaura, Scavengers or Sisters. But fear not! I can always include them as an extra bits in some of the future chapters, if I have time and there will be the need for them.

Before we wrap this chapter up, there is one big section I want to leave for the interested to read through. I thought that while I didn't want this chapter to contain longer bits of Future Phase, I deemed that Touma's children were one of the factors that made this story what it is and that they certainly deserve special place in anniversary chapter of all things. So I decided to make extended and improve bios for all(ish) 40 children of Kamijou Touma in Painted Prison Chronicles. Is it a lot? Yup. But is occasion special? Yes, very much so. Besides, this was requested privately multiple times. If you are interested in Future Phase characters, following section is especially for you. It includes the order of age of the siblings, names, birthdays, basic physical features, and most important traits and remarks about character.

On the side note regarding some children that appear to be 'missing': I conceived a category of people that Touma had intimate, physical relations with, but, for couple of reasons, they didn't have a child together. Those people include for example Orsola Aquinas, Gokusai Amazora, and Sakuragi Naruha. I am still debating about Oriana's possible child, but this is still undecided. And there is also... Index. Which, I admit, is really baffling for me. I believe admitting to a mistake is a growth for a writer so when it comes to Index's child case... I appear to have writer's block for one specific future phase character. For some reason, I can't envision Index as a mother. Or rather, I have trouble envisioning Touma getting truly intimate with Index. I don't have that feeling with Misaka, Misaki, or Othinus. I know it sounds strange, considering I managed to make a mother from someone like Hanatsuyu fricking Youen, so I will wrestle with my mind and maybe we will get to some solution. For now, I stick with Index wanting to uphold her celibacy and not having a child for religious reasons, despite being in a relationship with Touma too.

EDIT: AFTER INSISTANCE AND MY OWN REEVALUATION OF THE STORYLINE, BOLOGNA AND NIANG-NIANG WILL ALSO HAVE TOUMA'S CHILDREN. It seems that people want it, which is very cool. The reason I didn't give them children yet was because I didn't know how their relationship with Touma will exactly play out, but right now there is no reason to deny them children. They will appear in the later chapters and (although it is not certain) both will probably be male. This way we will get nice number, 40, and more or less equal female to male ratio.

ONE VERY IMPORTANT THING TO NOTE: Touma's children are ordered from oldest to youngest. But it doesn't mean, for example, that Touma loved Fukiyose more than any other girl so he had a child with her first. Remember, each of those children is from different timeline and each of them were taken from them to form a single timeline and reality, while being in different ages each. So the order of age reflects how the younger-older relationship between Kamijou siblings formed after Future Phase was created and memories of individual timelines erased.

REMARKS to a specific character are listed BELOW the (name, mother, by gender, overall, hair and eye colour, Age in Future Phase, Birthday) combo. Conversely, Every character has remarks regarding him UNDER those data. Maybe I will be able to fix the spaces, but for now, this will have to do

ALL OF KAMIJOU TOUMA'S 40 CHILDREN: DATA AND EXTENDED TRIVIA

Name: Kamijou Ryodou

Mother: Fukiyose Seiri

By gender: 1st son

Overall: 1st child

Hair and eye colour: Black, short/ Brown

Age in FP: 20

Birthday: 29 APR

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Remarks: Considered oldest and strongest of all his siblings. His strength and stamina are such that he is able to hold his own four people at once. Despite that he is emotional and nurturing, engaging in the activities like gardening, tending for the stray cats and writing haiku poetry. Ryodou is deeply fond of his younger sister, Sei-chan, to the point of being able to throw away his own safety to keep her smiling and happy. He is visibly muscular and wields force converting ability able to generate powerful shockwaves.

Name: Kamijou Kenjou

Mother: Kanzaki Kaori

By gender: 1st daughter

Overall: 2nd child

Hair and eye colour: Black, long, spiked up/ Dark grey

Age in FP: 19

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Birthday: 5 OCT

Remarks: Considered oldest of the daughters. Called mommy's girl by her siblings, she is actually quite similar to Touma in personal quirks. She retains her mother's body build and is very popular (yet oblivious to it). Kenjou tends to be sceptical about the salvation ideas that both of her parents represent, but she (secretly) wants both of them to appreciate her, while at the same being more rebellious towards Touma. A talented guitarist, rock singer and kendo swordswoman. Popular with boys but also considered somewhat unapproachable.

Name: Kamijou Kaizumi

Mother: Kumokawa Seria

By gender: 2nd son

Overall: 3rd child

Hair and eye colour: Black, short/ Amber

Age in FP: 19

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Birthday: 7 JAN

Remarks: He's very meticulous, dignified, and eloquent. Inheriting his mother's high intelligence and his father's tendency for trouble, he is often annoyed by his younger siblings that rope him into trouble, berating them for their antics. Despite of that, he helps others, partially out of goodness of heart, partially because he enjoys an intellectual challenge. His esper ability allows him to forcibly manipulate the center of gravity in the bodies of matter and by extension, the partial weight of objects, which can destabilize them. He is a great language learner, and can speak the most out of his siblings.

Name: Leonard Windsor-Kamijou

Mother: Queen Regnant Rimea

By gender: 3rd son

Overall: 4th child

Hair and eye colour: Black, short/ indigo

Age in FP: 19

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Birthday: 24 MAY

Remarks: Heir to the British throne. Due to the specific upbringing, he is seen as eccentric by both his siblings and friends, exuding a presence of confidence and power since his youngest years. He is deeply adept in specific fields of knowledge but is sometimes lacking in social interactions, which he enthusiastically tries to fix. Like Rimea in her youth, he also enjoys freedom and sneaks out of the palace when he has a chance, which includes visiting his siblings. However, when he is serious, he becomes very disciplined and there is almost nothing that can stop him from diverting his course of action. He is well versed in divination and healing magic.

Name: Aoife Gealach Kamijou

Mother: Bayloupe of New Light

By gender: 2nd daughter

Overall: 5th child

Hair and eye colour: Silver, long/ Pale blue

Age in FP: 19

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Birthday: 23 JAN

Remarks: Aoife, young martial artist, also known as Silver Moonlight, is endowed with both beautiful looks and impeccable reflexes. She is bashful when interacting with her family, but fierce in combat, during which she braids her usually loose hair. She often engages in rivalry with her older sister, Kenjou. She is the fastest out of all Kamijou siblings and thanks to excellent sense of equilibrium, she can gain considerable speed even on very unstable surfaces. Aoife's favourite things are holidays with the rest of her large family and practicing various styles of fighting, due to her dream of refining a self-defense technique that will be equally useful and fit for all people of the world. She gained many fans worldwide, including her younger brothers Rhain and Takami.

Name: Kira Averil Windsor-Kamijou

Mother: Princess Carissa

By gender: 3rd daughter

Overall: 6th child

Hair and eye colour: Blond, long and messy/ Indigo

Age in FP: 18

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Birthday: 27 AUG

Remarks: Very extroverted and sassy young woman. Always viewed through the lens of being the daughter of British Haloween instigator, Kira was avoided in childhood, and as such has love-hate relationship with Carissa, whom she respects deeply but also is angry at. Only seeing her father from time to time, she developed the tendency to deeply miss him and often seeks opportunities to travel and meet him. Similarly to her mother, Kira demonstrated great physical prowess and strategic skills, often being a leader whenever her siblings are in dangerous situations. She shares a deep bond with her half-brother and cousin in one, Leo.

Name: Kamijou Kanari

Mother: Mitsuari Ayu

By gender: 4th daughter

Overall: 7th child

Hair and eye colour: Deep burgundy, wavy/ Grey

Age in FP: 18

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Birthday: 30 MAY

Remarks: Aspiring idol and socialite. Very talkative, reckless, and clumsy. She can be seen as self-centered, but in truth is very altrusitic person, who wants to create and care for extensive network of friends. She possesses esper ability allowing her to hijack and manipulate visual perception of living beings. Kanari has a weakness to gossip and is considered one of the most misfortune-prone out of the siblings, often finding herself in compromising positions. Inspired by her mother's story, Kanari has an especially soft heart for people suffering from depression or other mental problems, and can even be somewhat gullible and manipulated through it.

Name: Kamijou Kiseki

Mother: Shokuhou Misaki

By gender: 5th daughter

Overall: 8th child

Hair and eye colour: Black, long/ Golden

Age in FP: 18

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Birthday: 25 JUL

Remarks: A generous yet slightly pampered daughter of Misaki, Kiseki is extroverted and flirty girl, often representing interests of all the sisters while on holidays or public events. She is very proud of her family and steps in to defend her siblings when it counts, even if she equally often pursues her own goals. She loves caring for those younger than herself and often volunteers in caring for children in hospitals and kindergarten. Kiseki comes from royal lineage of succubi, with former queen of Lilith clan, Bolgona, as her grandmother. Even though she has no demonic traits, being a quarter-succubus, she had a very developed body and looks at early age. Kiseki's esper ability allows her to secrete chemicals in her sweat and saliva. Those chemicals make her able to induce a state of light-headedness and intoxication in those who inhale her smell or kiss her.

Name: Asenath "Sena" Kamijou

Mother: Nephthys

By gender: 6th daughter

Overall: 9th child

Hair and eye colour: Dark silver, long/ heterochromic

Age in FP: 18

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Birthday: 1 NOV

Remarks: Demigodess. One of the most abundant in mana and skill in using magic, travelling with her mother from the early age. She possesses wide array of magical powers, including the ability to distort laws of physics in a designated radius and multiple dream-related abilities, such as nightmare inducition or shared dream creation. Sena enjoys teasing and dislikes any form of boredom, which often leads to her provoking people out of the need for adventure. Sena is considered one of the most beautiful out of her sisters by her brothers, which sometimes causes minor conflicts and quarrels among and with her sisters, particularly with Etain and Kanari. She is very close with her younger brother Takami as well as her aunt, Niang-Niang, who also was one of her magical instructors.

Name: Kamijou Takami

Mother: Misaka Mikoto

By gender: 4th son

Overall: 10th child

Hair and eye colour: Brown, medium length/ Grey

Age in FP: 18

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Birthday: 16 DEC

Remarks: In his teenage years said to resemble his maternal grandfather, Misaka Tabigake. Takami is a very honest and determined individual, often serving as a voice of reason in his mother's occasional outbursts. Although he can be level-headed and pragmatic in day to day life, Takami has an intense admiration for magic ever since witnessing it as a child. Because of that, despite his esper heritage, he decided to devote himself to the study of magic alongside his older sister Sena. He dreams to one day become a Magic God to help his father's goals through the use of magic. Takami is a boyfriend of Hamazura and Takitsubo's daughter, Frenda

(nicknamed Fren-chan).

Name: Kamijou Shimitsu

Mother: Mugino Shizuri

By gender: 7th daughter

Overall: 11th child

Hair and eye colour: Dark brown, long/ Dark grey

Age in FP: 18

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Birthday: 22 MAR

Remarks: An aspiring actress. Love interest of Hamazura and Takitsubo's son, Kamito. Although visually similar to her mother, she has much more balanced and relaxed personality. However, she is still a strong-willed girl who clearly dictates what she wants. She has a rivalry with her older half-sister Sena over attention of their brother, Takami. Shimitsu wields an esper ability that allows her to control strong interactions, one of the fundamental forces. This enables her to weld and disassemble matter she touches, and produce energy through fusion. She also has inherent immunity to radiation, making her one of the most mighty espers out of her siblings.

Name: Kamijou Tsubasa

Mother: Maidono Hoshimi

By gender: 5th son

Overall: 12th child

Hair and eye colour: Dark brown, short/ Light brown

Age in FP: 17

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Birthday: 24 APR

Remarks: Ironically for someone dreaming to become a pilot and fly through the air (which was inspired by aerial abilities of his mother) Tsubasa has severe acrophobia, that is, fear of heights. Despite that, he was determined to work through it and get to the flying school. Tsubasa inherited his father's ideology of equality and once dropkicked a girl from a rich family who was bullying younger student. Unlike his father, he fights with his legs instead of fists, claiming that they are meant for other things. Tsubasa has close ties with his younger siblings, Shizuka and Tomoya, the latter supporting his dream of becoming a pilot.

Name: Kamijou Shizuka

Mother: Kankyougami Hasako

By gender: 8th daughter

Overall: 13th child

Hair and eye colour: V. dark brown, long/ Blue

Age in FP: 17

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Birthday: 8 OCT

Remarks: Shizuka has a delicate and sublime beauty similar to her mother, however, she is more outspoken, being compared to her grandmother Shiina on some occasions. She behaves in an ojou-sama fashion, but is also least afraid to get dirty while searching for the opportunity to take a good photo. Being inspired by her mother's landscapes and environments, she was enchanted with photography and dreamed to go around the world to capture the most beautiful sights that earth has to offer. Shizuka tends to have a problem with saying 'no' to people, especially in regards to romantic life, leading to her being rescued from misunderstandings by others. Shizuka has a psychometric esper ability that allows her to attach 'emotional concepts' and 'meanings' into objects or physical areas, causing people to be affected by the abstract concepts while in contact with the designated object or area.

Name: Angelo Kamijou

Mother: Agnese Sanctis

By gender: 6th son

Overall: 14th child

Hair and eye colour: Red, spiked up/ Blue

Age in FP: 16

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Birthday: 26 AUG

Remarks: Bilingual, knows both japanese and italian natively. Son of the head of autonomous religious order of christianity, the agnesian order. Out of his siblings, Angelo is one of the more lost and trying to find his own place in the world. Despite having deep respect for religion, and being interested in many religions from the perspective of religious studies, he is also a declared agnostic, which sometimes gets him into conflicts with his mother. Angelo grew up surrounded by women, thus he tends to be awkward around males, with the exception of his brothers and father. Angelo is considered a great confidant and often serves as an informal mediator when his siblings get together, particularly when secrets are shared. Agnese's son is also greatly fascinated by opera and philharmonia. Because of his theoretic knowledge on religions, he is also well versed in knowledge on magical amulets.

Name: Parvati Kamijou

Mother: Sozty Exica

By gender: 9th daughter

Overall: 15th child

Hair and eye colour: Dark grey/ Amber

Age in FP: 16

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Birthday: 2 FEB

Remarks: Half indian-half japanese, bilingual. Often travelling with her mother and aunt. Parvati has very vivid imagination and can be said to suffer from a form of chunnibyou syndrome, which stems out of fascination of her father's actions, leading to adoration of everything heroic. While Parvati certainly doesn't hide her desire to be seen as hero, she also genuinely desires for people she saves to be safe and sound. She has her mother's cheerful attitude, and often engages in commentary of events as they occur in front of her. Parvati is a Gemstone, possessing incredibly potent regenerative ability, allowing her to heal from almost any level of damage at highly accelerated rate, as well as heal others under certain conditions. This power stems from her extremely rare blood type, that causes her ability to be lethally dangerous to her own life, should she lose too much blood.

Name: Kamijou Haruto

Mother: Gokusai Kaibi

By gender: 7th son

Overall: 16th child

Hair and eye colour: Dark brown/ Magenta pink

Age in FP: 16

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Birthday: 5 JUN

Remarks: A result of union between Kamijou Touma and Gokusai Kaibi, Haruto, named after his late maternal grandfather, is considered as a ladies' man, trickster, and manipulator. Skilled with his fingers, he is notoriously known for ambiguous actions and pranks. Although he never tends to do anything inherently malicious, he was reprimanded by Kaibi, who is one of the few people who knows that he often pretends to mask his weaknesses and insecurities. Despite his seemingly arrogant and careless attitude, Haruto enjoys close bond with his parents and aunts. He genuinely cares for his siblings, and especially enjoys teasing his younger half-sister and cousin in one, Chinatsu, who is also one of the few people who can stop his mischief.

Name: Kamijou Chousuke

Mother: Hanatsuyu Youen

By gender: 8th son

Overall: 17th child

Hair and eye colour: Black, tied in a knot/ Purple

Age in FP: 16

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Birthday: 3 MAR

Remarks: Inheriting lots of interests from his mother, while retaining his father's sensibility, Chousuke was inaugurated into biological research of Youen at the early age. As a result, he is completely fine with working with all types of bugs and critters, which led to him being picked upon when he and his siblings were younger. Despite that, Chousuke remains undeterred in his hobbies. Out of all his siblings, he is the mind most fit for an inventor, and he combined knowledge he gained from his mother with prowess with mechanics. He is particularly talented in constructing and synthesizing new materials out of various insect secretions. Chousuke has a slightly dirty mind and has a very vocal preference for women with big chests (although he vehemently states that his interests never go into true perversion and he remains gentleman throughout all time).

Name: Kamijou Seika

Mother: Arisa Meigo fused with Shutaura Sequenzia

By gender: 10th daughter

Overall: 18th child

Hair and eye colour: Black with pink endings/ Black with pink around the iris

Age in FP: 15

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Birthday: 15 MAY

Remarks: Because conceived when Arisa and Shutaura were taken over by their third, fused personality, Seika shares genetic makeup of both of them, combined with that of Kamijou Touma. That makes her possess three, if not four parents. Similarly to her older sister Parvati, she is often accompanying her mother(s). Seika is very productive songwriter and singer, on top of being fit and possessing natural talent for hand-to-hand combat. Because of her heritage, unique even amongst her extensive and unusual family, Seika, on top of normal teenage dillemas, is often confronted with deliberations regarding which path of life she should follow and which part of her mother's personality she should identify with more.

Name: Kamijou Miya

Mother: Kongou Mitsuko

By gender: 11th daughter

Overall: 19th child

Hair and eye colour: Black, long/ Grey

Age in FP: 15

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Birthday: 10 DEC

Remarks: Being an older twin to Tomoya, and heir to Kongou Airlines, Miya has a lot of physical similarities to glamorous looks of her mother, Kongou Mitsuko, to the point of it being pointed out multiple times by family and friends alike. Despite that, and Miya's efforts to emulate her mother's elegance and style, Miya is much more similar in quirks and behaviour to her father. That includes Touma's insight on people and his good heart. Miya is emotionally mature and sensitive, and despite having certain weaknesses regarding her own pride, she is always first in line to be someone others can talk to and friend that can be relied on even in greatest perils. Miya, similarly to her mother, was also acclaimed winner of many beauty and modelling contests.

Name: Kamijou Tomoya

Mother: Kongou Mitsuko

By gender: 9th son

Overall: 20th child

Hair and eye colour: Black, short/ Grey

Age in FP: 15

Zodiac sign: Sagittarius

Birthday: 10 DEC

Remarks: Often nicknamed 'Tomo' by his sister and mother. Being a younger twin to Miya, Tomoya also inherited some of Kongou family trademark looks, like characteristic eyebrows and brow. Although he is attached to Touma and spends time with him, he usually adopts similarly sceptical approach to involving himself in dangerous situations as his older brother, Kaizumi. Tomoya has a tendency to be boastful about his influence and indulges in overly dramatic gestures, to the exasperation of his twin sister. Despite this, Tomoya is also extremely loyal and endurant when pushed to the brink, taking the page of the books of both of his parents loyalty while fighting for their friends. He often supports his older brother Tsubasa, by offering him to join Kongou Airlines.

Name: Britannia "Tannia" Kamijou

Mother: Lessar of New Light

By gender: 12th daughter

Overall: 21st child

Hair and eye colour: Teal grey, long/ Indigo

Age in FP: 15

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Birthday: 31 AUG

Remarks: As the daughter of Lessar, she grew up well acquainted with all forms of her mother's lustful antics, which caused her to repress her own desires and declaring war with them. As such, Tannia is highly romantic and cherishes forms of platonic love, and one of her dreams is to have a fairy tale like love without any depravity. Despite that, her lust does exist and its denial hinders many opportunities of relationships. Tannia likes to make her family and friends laugh, and pursues a path of theatre. Her sincerity and values make her widely liked and popular (perhaps with the exception of the feud with her sister Elizabeth), but similarly to her father, Tannia is often oblivious to that affection. Despite being younger than Aoife, she often becomes a 'responsible sibling' of the children of New Light, in regards to her younger siblings, Rhain and Etain. Tannia is a master of observation and divination magic, able to communicate and perceive things hidden from both eyes and ears.

Name: Elizabeth "Liz" Kamijou

Mother: Leivinia Birdway

By gender: 13th daughter

Overall: 22nd child

Hair and eye colour: Blond, long/ Grey

Age in FP: 14

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Birthday: 9 JAN

Remarks: Being an older twin to Mary, Elizabeth, often called simply Liz, is spitting image of her mother's personality, displaying excellent leadership skills and cynical sense of humour. Despite often joking about the ambiguity of her parents bond, she becomes very defensive when outsiders comment about it. Liz demonstrated same kind of street smarts and battle-centered intelligence that her father possesses. When sad, she can becomes deeply prone to overreactions and misunderstandings. Liz has a rivalry with Tannia, stemming from the fact that their mothers often compared them to one another, consciously or not. Liz strongly dislikes any kind of restrains and as such often clashes with her mother, who wants for her to inherit the cabal. Additionally, Liz pursued the path of esper development, with not much of a success, making her secretly jealous of the achievements of Mary in the path of magic.

Name: Mary Kamijou

Mother: Leivinia Birdway

By gender: 14th daughter

Overall: 23rd child

Hair and eye colour: Blond, long/ Grey

Age in FP: 14

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Birthday: 9 JAN

Remarks: A younger twin to Elizabeth, Mary was often compared to her maternal aunt, Patricia, who is also one of her favourite family members. Mary is more delicate, fearful, and unsure of herself compared to her older twin sister. However, she makes up for that with great ingenuity and magical aptitude. Her interest is philosophy and she was the first person to bend the magic system to create spells based and centered on philosophical, and not just religious concepts. Because of that, she is regarded highly by her mother. Although that does not mean that she is explicitly favoured, it caused a rift between Mary and Liz, that Mary is often try to bridge through her actions, as she loves her twin sister dearly.

Name: Kamijou "Shishi" Shiina Tsushima

Mother: Itsuwa of Amakusa

By gender: 15th daughter

Overall: 24th child

Hair and eye colour: Purple, long/ Light brown

Age in FP: 13

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Birthday: 4 JUL

Remarks: Daughter of Itsuwa, raised in the atmosphere of love and support from not only her parents but also the church of Amakusa. Universally loved by all of her siblings and family members, she is sometimes treated as a mascot, which she doesn't mind. She often helps her mother out and loves to bake sweets as a hobby. Shishi is one of the most generous children of Touma and that often embodies his peace-seeking dream, as she is highly pacifistic and doesn't like any form of fighting. Shishi doesn't believe she is particularly good in anything, which often causes her to seek new things to do in hope to find her one true talent. Shishi is also a big pet lover, and of her ideas for the future career is a veterinarian. Trained by Amakusa from early age, Shishi is very good at hiding... but not exactly well-versed in sneak attacks.

Name: Etain Kamijou

Mother: Lancis of New Light

By gender: 16th daughter

Overall: 25th child

Hair and eye colour: Brown, medium length/ Dark grey

Age in FP: 13

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Birthday: 13 NOV

Remarks: Named after heroine of irish myths. Being intrigued and inspired by her aunt Lessar, Etain grew up focusing on her beauty and adopts the attitude of seductress towards males in her vicinity, sometimes even the ones in her family. With Touma often stepping in and scolding his daughter for such behaviour, he is one of the few who knows that Etain is trying to boost her own confidence and overcome her complexes regarding her chest size and laugh, which she inherited from her mother. Etain is actually easily flustered when someone uses her own tricks on her, and very approachable when she doesn't try to get something by flirting. She is the best student out of New Light children, with her favourite subject being history. Through and through, she proves to be a heartbreaker, occasionally earning the ire of some people through it. Etain does so because she has a very well defined standards and not out of spite.

Name: Kamijou "Sei" Seiri

Mother: Himegami Aisa

By gender: 17th daughter

Overall: 26th child

Hair and eye colour: Black, long/ Dark blue

Age in FP: 12

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Birthday: 29 FEB

Remarks: A timid and soft-spoken daughter of Himegami Aisa, named to honour Fukiyose Seiri. Because of the close bond of their mothers, Sei admired her strong aunt and desired to have some of her personal qualities. Despite the fact that Sei does not have talent for sports nor is particularly strong, her efforts and determination touched Fukiyose to the extent that she did a lot to help Sei with her social anxiety as well as give her more general courage. Fukiyose's son, and Sei's oldest sibling, Ryodou, is also extremely fond of his little sister, to the point of people calling him her guardian spirit. Sei is artistically inclined and loves all forms of painting. She was later known to create an magically preserved Kamijou family portrait, alongside her adoptive brother Tenma.

Name: Rhain Kamijou

Mother: Floris of New Light

By gender: 10th son

Overall: 27th child

Hair and eye colour: Blond, short/ Almost black

Age in FP: 11

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Birthday: 26 SEP

Remarks: The only boy among the children of New Light, as well as the youngest out of them. One of Rhain is defining traits is his explorative curiosity, amplified by the fact that he has ADHD. He also adopts carefree attitude, even though he gets into many dangerous situations, which always scares Floris half to death. Because of aforementioned curiosity, Rhain dreams of becoming an explorer in the future, and one of his most idealistic dreams is creating map of already embedded phases of reality. Fortunately not inheriting Touma's bad luck, his sense of danger is close to zero, and he is barely fazed by many dangers, bordering on the line of bravery and recklessness. When he was little, Rhain had a crush-like admiration of his older sister Aoife. Even after growing out of it, he still remains her big fan.

Name: Kamijou Mizumi

Mother: Wannai Kinuho

By gender: 18th daughter

Overall: 28th child

Hair and eye colour: Black, short, wavy/ Green

Age in FP: 11

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Birthday: 14 FEB

Remarks: Often described as an idealistic dreamer, Mizumi is a deeply contemplative girl with a strong talent for finding beauty in things. Growing up, her mother and aunts spoke of Touma's adventures which prompted young Mizumi to dream about them. As she grew up, she realized that she wanted to write a book, chronicling all of the exploits of previous, current, and presumably next generation. As such, Mizumi is an aspiring writer, loving to both write and read, to the point that she often has to be weary of accidents caused by having her nose in a book. Mizumi, similarly to some of her older siblings, has a very deep admiration for her father and always seeks opportunity to spend time with him. One of her favourite stories involves Touma fighting Accelerator, so out of all the children, she is most determined to spend time with their slightly scary uncle to get his version of the events. Because of her desires, Mizumi got to know many people in her expansive family very well, especially given her age.

Name: Kamijou Hayate

Mother: Awatsuki Maaya

By gender: 11th son

Overall: 29th child

Hair and eye colour: Black with purple reflexes/ Purple

Age in FP: 11

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Birthday: 19 SEP

Remarks: Introverted and somewhat reclusive. Hayate, named such to pay the homage to Kongou Mitsuko, was born sickly and because of the frequency of his illnesses, he didn't have time to properly interact with many people and was often dealing with loneliness. To make matters worse, when he started developing esper powers, which allow him to propagate and mutate bacteria, his social life suffered once again. Because his ability is extremely dangerous, he often wears pair of gloves if he interacts with others, as his powers are activated through touch. The only people who don't avoid him outright like a (literal) plague are members of his family, who knew his actual personality. Initially being kind-hearted, Hayate underwent a period of dark personality, during which he considered letting his ability loose and hurting those that rejected him. However, after help from his parents and siblings, he ultimately decided to better his skills and become a doctor to prove the people who taunted him wrong. He is rarely appearing in public and often comes off as cold, but he cares about others in his own, convoluted way.

Name: Kamijou Chinatsu

Mother: Gokusai Rikuri

By gender: 19th daughter

Overall: 30th child

Hair and eye colour: Brown/ Blue

Age in FP: 10

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Birthday: 5 JUN

Remarks: Even at very young age, Chinatsu displayed her mother's looks, labelling her very popular and also a sight of awe. Due to her eyes being blue, she resembles the younger self of her first cousin once removed, Oriana Thomson. Chinatsu is often engaging in the various activities in her school, being the president of her class, as well as a member of couple of clubs. Similarly to Rikuri, she is very intelligent and prodigious, having talents for architecture and design even at the age of 10. Despite acting prim and proper in front of eyes adoring her, she is very silly once out of public eye. This is evidence by the fact that she loves to spend time with her aunt Amazora and, despite complaining about it, has a weakness to the teases of her older cousin/half-brother, Haruto. Chinatsu possesses an esper ability that allows her to manipulate viscosity of liquids.

Name: Valpurgis "Val" Kamijou

Mother: Witch Goddess Aradia

By gender: 12th son

Overall: 31st child

Hair and eye colour: Silver, short/ Lily

Age in FP: 10

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Birthday: 24 MAR

Remarks: Val is rarely interacting with rest of his siblings due to Aradia taking care of his upbringing in her own fashion, over far away from civilization. Despite Witch Goddess' best efforts and Val's own tremendous magical potential, he displays the desire the be as normal as possible. This doesn't always work, as his legacy is not that easy to overcome. Many of Val's challenges stem for the fact that he tries to combine the life of a normal child with the destiny of being the son of the mightiest witches in existence. Out of his siblings, he is closest to Sena and Tenma, once he got to know him.

Name: Kamijou Wataru

Mother: Konori Mii

By gender: 13th son

Overall: 32nd child

Hair and eye colour: Black, short/ Indigo

Age in FP: 9

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Birthday: 23 OCT

Remarks: Born out intercourse between Touma and Konori Mii, Wataru is rather ironically named after Konori's previous, long term love interest, Kurozuma Wataru. He is keen in all kinds of team sports and considered his school's most promising basketball player. He inherited Konori's eyesight and need for glasses, but his involvement with sports forced him to swap them for contact lenses at the very early age. He is also very interested in racing and frequently watches major league motorbike racers in action. Wataru tapped into magic while on his holidays in England (which Kamijou family spends with Leonard and Kira in the royal palace) and his magical potent is to be determined in the future.

Name: Kamijou "Setsu" Densetsu

Mother: Saten Ruiko

By gender: 20th daughter

Overall: 33rd child

Hair and eye colour: Black, long/ Indigo

Age in FP: 8

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Birthday: 29 NOV

Remarks: Despite Saten's worries about her ability to become a responsible mother, Densetsu (meaning "legend), commonly called Setsu, often demonstrated that there was nothing to worry about. Being a result of a burst of passionate romance between two level 0s, Setsu is one of the more resourceful and energetic of Touma's children, despite being only in elementary school. Her curiosity is second only to her older brother Rhain, and despite being so young, she has very well defined dream of becoming a journalist and reporter. Besides Setsu's inquisitiveness, her other hobby is dancing, and she is known for learning various moves from around the world (she doesn't yet have mastery in any of said dances) Her best friend is her older sister Shishi, with whom she shares many happy and sad moments.

Name: Kamijou Misama

Mother: Shirai Kuroko

By gender: 14th son

Overall: 34th child

Hair and eye colour: Tawny, short/ Grey

Age in FP: 8

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Birthday: 28 JUN

Remarks: As Shirai Kuroko's child, he grew up familiarized with Academy City's law enforcement and similarly to both of his parents, he likes to intervene when someone is in trouble. Taking a page from his mother's style of fantasising, he dreams of being a professional bodyguard and meeting his dream girl through that job, despite being only in elementary school. Although Misama is generally obedient, Kuroko often remarks than there is more of his father in his behaviour than many would suspect. He likes to spend time with aunt Kazari, who lets him get away from his mother's strictness. His relationship with Misaka Mikoto remains atypical, since Kuroko fall into lust with Touma, never actually ceasing to have feelings for Mikoto. He likes to tease his mother, who despite his stern superior is still mostly flustered about her feelings for Touma.

Name: Kamijou Junya

Mother: Yumiya Iruka

By gender: 15th son

Overall: 35th child

Hair and eye colour: Red with black ends, short/ Amber

Age in FP: 8

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Birthday: 31 JAN

Remarks: Being unplanned child born from his mother's impulsive decision to seduce Touma due to feelings of envy after Hokaze Junko got pregnant. Junya was taken by his father in his early infancy after Iruka experienced severe episode of postpartum depression and could not look at the child without breaking down. Junya had a difficult and somewhat awkward relationship with his mother, but despite that, he often seeks her approval and praise. He has a uniquely coloured her, with his mother's red colouring at the base of his hairs and Touma's black her on their ends. Junya has keen sense of smell, similarly to his late aunt Rakko, and enjoys spending time with the children of Sogiita Gunha and Hokaze Junko. In the current rendition of Future Phase, he gains an esper ability allowing him to create and control ozone.

Name: Kamijou Serina

Mother: Yakumaru Itsuki

By gender: 21st daughter

Overall: 36th child

Hair and eye colour: Brown, short/ Aquamarine

Age in FP: 7

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Birthday: 25 FEB

Remarks: Being the youngest of Touma's known children, Serina is the result of the union of Kamijou Touma and Yakumaru Itsuki, after the latter realized that she became strongly attracted to Touma despite her efforts to charm him into submission first. Serina's name comes from parts of the names of her aunts and uncle (SE- Seike, RI- Riita, NA- Naru). To give Itsuki some time to spend with Touma or allow her to rest, Scavengers collectively care for Serina, which involves some rather peculiar caretaking methods. As some of her older siblings, Serina has her father's tendency to involve herself in problems, which normally means that she is getting lost. However, due to having looks of her mother, most of the trouble is solvable much easier for her than it would be for Touma. She likes to see her parents together and often requests a sibling from her flustered mother. To the horror of her closest family, one of her greatest idols is none other than Accelerator.

Name: Kamijou Tenma (formerly: Ondo Tenma)

Mother: Othinus (adoptive)

By gender: 16th son

Overall: 37th child (does not reflect his age, he is more or less between Takami and Shimitsu)

Hair and eye colour: Ash coloured, short/ Green

Age in FP: 18

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Birthday: 28 MAR

Remarks: Tenma differs from majority of Touma's kids in the fact that he is not biologically related offspring of Kamijou bloodline, but rather an adoptive child. Orphaned in the mountain avalanche that scarred his face, robbed him of past memories, and caused him to lose an eye, he was found after a few years by Touma and Othinus, who desired to make him her own child. Tenma is a person that is slow to warm up to people, but gives them enormous amounts of affection once the trust is earned. He deeply loves Othinus and is able to go great lengths to make the fairy feel comfortable and well, as he feels grateful for getting a family and place to stay. He helps Othinus with her bakery/flower shop and tends to the house they live in. He has deeply imaginative mind and Othinus would often share many stories with him, which serve as source of his inspiration. After becoming a part of Kamijou family, he was welcomed as equal to all his siblings and became invaluable to family community. Tenma is very skilled in drawing, especially with sketching and gesture drawing. He became known as one to create Kamijou family portrait alongside his younger sister Sei.

Name: ?

Mother: Hokaze Junko

By gender: ?

Overall: 38th child

Hair and eye colour: ?

Age in FP: ?

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Birthday: 20 SEP

Remarks: A mysterious child from a different phase, put inside of the womb to avoid death through divine intervention. Her/His characteristics and involvement will be revealed in the future.

EDIT: AFTER INSISTANCE AND MY OWN REEVALUATION OF THE STORYLINE, BOLOGNA AND NIANG-NIANG WILL ALSO HAVE TOUMA'S CHILDREN. It seems that people want it, which is very cool. The reason I didn't give them children yet was because I didn't know how their relationship with Touma will exactly play out, but right now there is no reason to deny them children. They will appear in the later chapters and (although it is not certain) both will probably be male. This way we will get nice number, 40, and more or less equal female to male ratio.

Name: ?

Mother: Bologna Succubus

By gender: ?

Overall: 39th child

Hair and eye colour: Golden/Black with golden iris

Age in FP: newborn

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Birthday: 13 AUG

Name: ?

Mother: Niang-Niang

By gender: ?

Overall: 40th child

Hair and eye colour: Black/Green

Age in FP: Newborn

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Birthday: 8 JAN