PAINTED PRISON CHRONICLES
CHAPTER 25
1ST ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL IN CELEBRATION OF STORY CONCEPTION
Hello everyone. After confessions, I am holding you on suspense for a little longer. I am back, this time on a very special occasion, one of the two I wanted to celebrate along the lines of creating this story. Roughly a year ago, first drafts and plans for this story first came into my mind. It took few more months of planning and writing to get it done, but the journey truly began in second half of May 2022. I thought it was worth mentioning and writing something more rich in content for this occasion. The other such occasion will probably September 7, in first anniversary of this story's publication.
As you can see, this chapter is absolutely massive. I read your remarks and I can only bow down to the fans of shorter chapters. Please, bare with it for the special occasion. I didn't want to divide this chapter, because it seemed awkward for me to split event-centered anniversary special into multiple parts (However, should it become a problem, I will consider spliting it in two). Second reason for giving you such a long chapter is because honestly I have no idea when I will be able to post again. What I mean is that I am not sure if I will be able to post in the space of next month and half or so (if everything goes well, I will probably be able to do so later). Thus, I wanted to give you as much celebratory goodness because being exiled on this forced hiatus. I know I keep saying this, and I somehow manage to write in regular pace (which surprises me too, to be honest) but with finishing my thesis, and preparing many things before summer exams, I am just not really sure what will happen in the next month. It's honestly tiring, and my writing for you is actually a therapeutic way of sorts, that helps me relax a little in this hectic life. It is also why I often focused more on Touma's therapeutic influence on other people.
This chapter has a slightly different form than majority of its predecessors. It consists of 2 Parts Part 1 is a regular, single-plotline story, revolving around certain new characters having interaction with our heroes. Part 2 is an anthology, collecting couple of stories, mainly regarding the future phase, but not only. As such, it hosts collection of stories related to the universe I created and set on enriching the world by deepening the characters and expanding on the relationships.
As always, I want to deeply thank you, my readers, for following and commenting on this story (on Reddit and here), enjoying it with me, giving me remarks and so many heartwarming moments on the way. Thanks to you and my own writing experience, till this moment, I could discover what is the writing that I excel in, and what scenes I am not really good at. I hope I will grow more, to give you interesting and captivating content for your enjoyment.
This story is one of the most interesting long-term projects I ever undertaken. Both with main heroes, Gokusai family and Touma, as well as lots of secondary and tertiary characters.
Because of sheer length of this compilation of a chapter, let's answer some question and jump into the story, without further delay!
TheDarkPublisher: Oriana is certainly very underused and interesting character, that is worth considering for having a full blown story with Touma.
KHVSFF: I thank you for the kind words, you always make me smile thanks to them. I must add, I must praise your story, A Certain Meltdowner Misfortunate Dream. Both of you and Certain Darkness Within gave me inspiration for properly fleshing out Mugino in my own take on her relationships, personality, and romance. She deserves a lot of care and attention from writing point of view, and I am glad to see that there are daring people, who want to explore her character.
Majin Othinus: Hasako is beautiful in more ways than one, and one of the characters I am most proud of.
Aminadab Brule: Iruka should appear more, it's sad that it was never showed how she reacted on the news that her sister never came back.
FingFangFoom100: I wondered about Kaibi's name being known or not. I agree that this was true during NT and OT, but in GT, dark side is dying, so maybe Kaibi could just normally introduce herself, as there was no reason to hide anymore. As for Saten and the rest, just wait and see.
Muramasa: Unfortunately no, Rakko was confirmed dead. What you're talking about is the battle with Frenda, which she survived, like you say, but she was later taken out by ITEM off screen.
I was asked if there was any meaning behind Touma giving Mugino blue lilies. And there is, in fact. Among other things, blue lilies symbolize rebirth, new beginning in life, as well as return to purity.
THE PRE AND POST-STORY WILL POSSIBLY UPDATED WITH TRIVIA, SO BE SURE TO CHECK IT OUT!
Deep within Academy City, there was a group of four sitting within the underground base.
The name of the group was Scavenger. It was (once, at the very least) one of the dark side groups, that killed without a remorse or guilt when the assignment was given to them. Although they weren't recognized on the level of groups like ITEM, GROUP or SCHOOL, they still held considerable firepower. What kept those girls together, besides their darker deals, was shared hatred for teachers and educators. They firmly believed that eliminating them would only better off everyone's lives.
However, their life was recently thrown upside down.
The team was frequently kept in hibernation, only waking up for the missions. Fortunately for them, in the chaos of Operation Handcuffs, sealed room in which they slept was not entered, as the dark side researchers and Anti-Skill officers basically killed each other off. So the 4 girls weren't distrubed. Until months later, they were forcibly awoken when the life suspension system malfunctioned (for the reasons yet unknown). Needless to say, the woke up to a new reality. A reality in which most of the dark side became weakened, if not compromised.
In this new reality, standing out as a dark side's purging survivour would only be foolish, so they felt quite lost. Scavenger members enjoyed their job in the past. But now, their contact with the liaison was severed, and they found themselves craving some form of distraction from the boredom.
Apparently, some topic just arrived on the agenda.
"As you all know, our situation is slightly unclear" spoke small redheaded girl wearing a face mask and plain rosy shirt combined with shorts and suspenders."But it's rather important to do something to form our own path from now on"
She was nicknamed Leader, with a name Izumi Rita. A victim of teacher's abuse, she swore the vengeance and elimination of all educators from the city, and was a core source of that ideal, shared with her fellow members. Her ability, Predator, allowed Izumi to locate and gaze upon any target, regardless of the distance.
"As you all know, in the past... we had our share of great achievements. Yes, let's not forget about it before we move on to-"
"We also had massive cases of fucking up" spoke the black haired teen in a sailor uniform.
The name of said member was Seike Taromaru. Despite female attire, long black hair, and other feminine elements of the outward look, Seike was in fact a boy, however unbelievable it seemed. His appearance stemmed partially from his fondness of cosplaying.
Leader girt her teeth before continuing.
"Thank you, Seike. Well, despite those amazing achievements... we stumbled upon rather... inadequate opponents. Not one, but two level 5s. Because of this, we had to experience some infamy along the way. But after consideration, those fights are not the reason to truly give up"
"Even though we got ourselves in quite the trouble, it was nothing we couldn't handle"
"Easy for you to say. You passed out, while he totally trashed us and slammed me against a wall"
"N-No... we were merely bruised"
"I think you mean obliterat-"
Leader glared at Seike, who mouthed 'thank you Seike' and shut up.
"As I said... this is a new beginning. We were unlucky enough twice, it's time to focus our energy on something productive. But before we can do anything..."
She slammed her small hand with against a table, her eyes flashing with anger.
"... I need someone to take care of this guy"
The holographic display showed a face of a teen with spiky hair.
"Hmm? Who is that?" asked brown haired girl in dark-yellow shirt.
She was the squad's chemist and combatant, with ability allowing the separation of various liquids by controlling the specific gravity. Those allowed her to achieve specific chemical reaction such freezing and overheating the targets, creating substances causing corrosion, immobilization, or distraction, as well as providing aid for other members. Her name was Yakumaru Itsuki.
"Beats me. I never seen a guy before in my life" added the last member, a violet haired girl in dark sleevleess dress adorned with triple bow tie, white underneath T-shirt, and maid-like head accessory.
Her name was Sakuragi Naruha, commonly called Naru. A seemingly childish and cutesy outside of dark side work, she was relentless and malignant for her foes. Another vital source of force within the team, Naru had the ability to manipulate paper. Which, as underwhelming is it sounded, had a lot of cool and practical applications, ranging from creating clothes through weapons to modes of transportation.
"I don't know him too. Leader, what gives?" Seike asked the suddenly furious girl.
"This... stupid imbecile... has to pay for humiliating me." Rita clenched her fists" You want to know what happened? Well, few days ago, when I went outside to think a little bit, he bumped into me. What happened next still makes my blood boil... he said 'here you are sensei, everyone are waiting for you', grabbed me under his arm and dashed away. Only after a couple of minutes I managed to get my voice loud enough to get his attention through the ruckus of the street. Only then he realized his mistake, but I was frazzled as hell! He said, of all fucking things, that I looked like his teacher, and that he mistook me for her because of the bad lighting. They were on some fieldtrip or something, I didn't really care what the hell it was. I wanted to murder him on the spot, because I am anything but a shitty, no-good teacher! But no, he had to put a cherry on top and wanted to walk me to my elementary school. Even though I started to attend middle-school already, it's just that I look small! AND HE PATTED ME, ON MY GOD DAMN HEAD!"
The redhead panted as the other members of Scavenger exchanged glances.
"Wow, it's rare to see you that pissed" Naru remarked.
"This guy really had to push your buttons. But... is he really worth the trouble?" Yakumaru asked.
"I don't know, and I don't really care to be honest. Something I do know is that he keeps coming back to my head with that stupid smile and idiotic behaviour of a teacher pet! I will not be able to move forward if I don't teach her a lesson. Which is why I am requesting one of you to do so"
There was silence, until Naru finally spoke.
"Oh, fine. I was getting bored anyway, so it will do me some good. Can you find him for me?"
"Well..." Rita mumbled, scratching her Gekota badge in embarrassment" I sort of... can't see him with my ability"
The remaining trio looked at each other in shock.
"But... that is not possible" said Seike" Even with the strongest espers, Predator should always-"
"I know!" Rita screamed, her voice going up an octave for a moment" You see why he keeps infuriating me? There is something weird going on here. But don't worry, I observed him and I saw the route he takes to get to school..."
(THE NEXT DAY)
It was basically the same meeting... only this time, there were two pissed people at the table.
"Naru-chan... emm..." Itsuki was not sure how to voice her question, before finally deciding to be straightforward "You look rather... intense"
"Mhmm, hmhhhmhm..." the purple haired teammate was angrily chewing on the piece of paper, with her eyes throwing death glares left and right.
"Come on, spill it, how did it go? You look like a goat while chewing on that paper" Seike voiced something that Itsuki didn't have courage to say.
Naru spat out a half-chewed piece of paper and slammed her hands against the table, just like Rita did day earlier.
"That guy... I ambushed him, and only wanted to roughen him up a little bit, just like planned... but he...HE...
(Flashback)
Kamijou Touma was walking down the street alongside Index
"Touma, you usually don't bring me along now. What happened?" asked the nun.
"Well, I thought, that while I am going to school, we can spend some time together. And maybe go for some crepes? I also thought we can surprise all of the girls. We didn't have a good crepe since we started to live together. I remember how happy Hasako was when I first took her to one. Apparently, there were no crepes during her ti-"
"YAY! Breakfast after breakfast!"
"Human, I don't recognize you! I would expect you would be the last person who would support this kind of expense. Usually, it's three meals per day... no, two... for you, one, if month was worse..."
"D-Don't be cruel, Othi-chan! I am evolved man who learned that bonds are also resources. I shall not use them for anything... but that. Kaibi and Rikuri offer me this, so I may as well treat Index to something good. I-I am not giving up and admit that I am financially debilitated. This is only strategy to start a good and energetic beginning."
"I support Touma's attitude."
"In the name of me, you two are such... hmm? Human, I feel someone's presence."
In the alley the trio just passed, Naru smirked, pieces of paper swirling around her. On her command, they put themselves together and hardened, forming something between a club and a baseball bat.
'Sorry for that, spiky head. But we kind of have this following the leader gimmick, just like the song goes. Plus... I need to blow off some steam after dark side crumbled without us! Hah, I love this job!'
She then quickly ran from behind the corner, raising her weapon.
But on Othinus' warning, Touma spun around, and by accident, his right hand connected with the weapon.
Instead of taking a massive blow to the head, he was showered with paper. Because of the force of the blow disappearing, Naru lost her balance, and tumbled down to the ground.
"Hey! Be more careful where you walk next time. Oh, did you drop your papers? I will help you collect them."
'What? Did I accidentally deactivate my power? No, I am sure I didn't. So what the hell happened?'
"Honestly, I think this is not ecological at all. You should help trees grow" she heard the voice of a doll (?) on boys shoulder.
Were they mocking her?
She gathered paper in her hand to attack again but in that moment the boy extended his hand, reaching out.
"Are okay? Do you need help getting up?"
She swatted his hand away.
"No! Do you even realize what's going on?"
"It's doubtful, he is too gullible for his own good sometimes" came the voice from the doll.
Naru was too shocked to suddenly see Touma grab his head in panic.
"Wah! Seeing all of that paper made me realize that I still have an assignment for Komoe-sensei to finish. Would you mind if borrowed some of those sheets? Now, let's get you up!"
"I said, I don't need-"
The boy grabbed Naru by the wrist. And in doing so, fingers of his right hand brushed against her sleeve.
With the sound shattering glass, Naru's clothing burst apart in the storm of paper sheets, leaving only her naked form.
"It reacted... this paper was an esper ability?!" Touma screamed in shock
"Isn't this a familiar scene..." muttered Index, her perfect memory reliving moment in the past in which she was a subject to similar humiliating pheonomenon.
Naru was too stunned to speak, which was a rarity, but already happened far too much.
"Why do you walk dressed completely in paper? But seriously, this power is pretty insane. Do you make a battle sound of a printer when you activate it?"
"What the fu-"
"What sound does the printer make, Touma?" asked Index.
"You know, that... printer-y sound. Oh, miss deforestator, don't you get paper cuts while walking around in that. Sounds like a pretty painful fetish"
"IT'S NOT A FETISH, IT'S AN ABILI-"
"KYAAAA! This boy is molesting a naked girl!"
"Oh, such misfortune! Index, let's run for it! Sorry about that, reaaaaaaaly!"
(End flashback)
"By this point, I gathered too much attention. I had to retreat in humiliation!" Naru clenched her fist, with a blush of anger on her face" That guy stripped me of both my pride and my clothes at the same time!"
She was met with blank looks from her teammates.
"What?"
"Naru... I don't know how to put it... but you do strip by yourself. Quite a lot actually" Itsuki finally said to her comrade.
"And flaunt your naked birthday suit in front of our faces, whether we like it or not" Seike nodded his head, before directing his attention to the phone.
"While I have no shame with my body, discarding naked and being stripped naked are two completely different things, you know! I totally get you, Leader. This guy completely mocked us!"
Yakumaru looked at two girls boiling with rage.
"I have bad feelings about this" she sighed, putting a girl to her face.
"Yeah, I got that vibe quite some time ago" came the comment from Seike.
(One more day forward)
"Are we really going through with this?" Yakumaru was trying to be the voice of reason in the group, as they all went out to the city" We shouldn't draw too much attention to ourselves..."
"Oh, we are so doing this. Scavengers are aiming to be elite, to bounce back, so we cannot have this guy making fun of us" replied Naru.
"This is getting out of hand" the brown haired chemist looked at Seike. "Can't we do something to stop them?"
"Beats me, they kind of lost it. I just want to humour them, so I can get back to my free time" shrugged the feminine boy.
"Okay, now we surely won't do it in a half-assed way. With all of us, it has to work" Rita looked at the distance where the silhouette of Touma was resurfacing from beyond the curvature of the street." One... two...three... charge!"
And so, the quarter, consisting of the bloodlusted duo and the reluctant duo sprinted forward.
Their charge lasted only a couple seconds, because of the second figure that emerged, slightly behind the black haired teen.
The triumphant face of enraged Rita drastically changed, with her eyes becoming as big as dinner plates. She abrupty stopped, causing the rest of the group to collide into one another.
White hair. Pale skin. Red eyes. Walking with the crouch.
"A...A-A...Acce.. back, back, BACK! EVERYONE, FALL BACK!"
And so, Scavengers frantically jumped into the back alley, as the boys slowly passed by it few minutes earlier.
But why was Accelerator, the incarcerated ruler of Academy City, out and about?
Answer arrived for the shocked Scavengers quicker than they would expect.
"It is honestly a surprise. With you being... you know, imprisoned and all" Touma said, as he and Accelerator walked together.
"I am still imprisoned. I am rigged with shit ton of monitoring devices that will paralyze me or shut down my device if I overstep my clearance. I assisted with the construction myself so I know that they are real deal"
"I didn't think that you would want to ask for going out. With how serious it was for you, the trial and all of that..."
"I definitely didn't ask for this. It is my conviction to stay in prison. But... the brat insisted that she wanted to see me like this. She pestered everyone, from the Anti-Skill to prison management, over and over and over... until they allowed me one day a month to go out like this, under maximum surveillance, and if I behave throughout the preceding month. As I said, I am monitored as we speak, each and every action of mine. I imagine that they never wanted to let me on a one-day clearance, I should wouldn't let me out if I was them, but I imagine Last Order has a certain appeal here, as she is closely connected to the victims of my killing spree. Her asking for this carries weight"
"So, you have from morning till dusk? That's cool! What are you going to do now?"
"What do you think? I am going to be with her... with all of them, if possible. With the people I started to call a family."
"Oh, of course. I am going for the shopping now. Misaka said something about couples winning the Gekota themed journey to amusement park. So I am going to help her... again... and then I will probably try to give my place to Junko-san. I am sure she will be thrilled with it."
"How do you put up with third string is beyond me... if you managed to stand your ground with me, it is not a problem with her..."
"But I genuinely want to help Misaka and for her to have a good time though..."
"You and that retarded hero mentality again... suit yourself, I am spending a peaceful day here..."
Voices quieted down and faded in the distance.
"Did I... just hear what I think I heard?" whispered Naru.
"He spoke to him... to Accelerator of all people... as if he was his equal... no, that's simply not possible..." Yakumaru was also deeply confused and shocked. "Leader, what do you think?"
Rita's entire demeanor changed, as she sat down, deep in thought.
"I... I don't know what to think. There was legend of level 0 who ran into many level 5s... and survived. You don't think..."
Naru laughed nervously, waving her hand.
"No, no way. That guy wouldn't have the skills. He looks totally plain."
"But..." Yakumaru put a finger on her cheek, still processing what they witnessed" He did speak with Accelerator casually, with no fear... and he also mentioned Railgun. He is clearly well acquainted with them"
"We need to scout him up" came the voice of Rita.
"Huh?" Seike for the first time in a while showed some interest" You were trying to have him by the throat minutes ago"
"I know, but what we saw outweighs our irritation" the small girl frowned" if this guy has some way to casually interact with level 5s, if he somehow manages to have them as his allies... we must have him as an ally as well. Even if he is irritating, we can work on him once he is allied with us. Yakkun, Seike, he doesn't know you yet. Go after him and get him to join. I need to speak with him"
"W-What?! I am not going to work with that guy!" Naru crossed her arms. Meanwhile, Seike stretched out and grabbed Yakumaru by the hand.
"Wow... she changed her tune so quickly... well, I guess there is no way around it. Yakkun, let's go for it"
"I was wondering this for a while..." Itsuki pointed at Seike's phone" What exactly gets you so worked up with your phone in recent days?"
"Huh? It's nothing..."
"No, I won't believe it... come on, tell me..."
"Well, it doesn't really matter... I just... got into dating, that's all. Naru reactivated a dating profile for me, as much as I disagreed"
"WHAT?!"
"Don't scream about it, would you?!"
"Okay, okay, but... wow, that sounds nice!"
"Heh, maybe for you, you are cute and model-like. I tried it in the past, but no one actually wanted to go through with my misleading appearance..." muttered the long haired boy." Is it weird?"
"No, no, although you did surprise me a little bit with this"
"Well, that's fine, because we have a fool to take on our side"
When they finally found Touma, he parted with Accelerator. Instead, there was a group of 4 girls with him, standing out of the shop with house supplies. One of the girls was a small blond with a dark pink dress. Second one was voluptuous beauty that just had to be the older sister of the first, while third and fourth were small girls so similar that they had to be twins. Both wore labcoats, had violet irises, and their long hair was tied up in high ponytails with red ribbons.
Seike looked at the group in mild interest, until he felt Yakumaru's body shivering.
The brown haired teen in dark yellow shirt was sweating, looking at the group in front of her.
"Oi, you okay?" Seike asked, to which Yakumaru looked at him in slightly erratic way.
"Okay? No, I am not okay. I am terrified. Don't! Don't let them see you!"
"What's gotten into you all of the sudden?"
"Are you serious? You don't know who those people are?!"
"Not a clue"
"Those two are... Carrier and Decomposer! And if I am not mistaken, that is the Potion Lady, the infamous drone user. W-What are they doing with this guy?."
"And what?"
"And what?! Anyone who is even slightly into the chemistry on the dark side heard about them!" Yakumaru's voice was now tinged with fear" Carrier and Decomposer, those twins, are absolute monsters. They are the most vile, evil, unethical, and unhinged biochemical specialists in the city. They are respected, but also immensely feared. I only heard rumours about their appearance, but... when it comes to their skill, they are insanely talented."
"They are better than you?"
"As much as I am an accomplished chemist, and as much as it shameful to admit it, compared to them, I am like a child making a first chemical reaction. The things they can do with pathogens and biological contamination, with both organic and inorganic matter, through the usage of drugs and vermin... they are said to bath in dissolute remains of their enemies, to do things so unspeakable that death seems like the highest mercy. As for the Potion Lady, I only have vague info, but she can be nasty while working in the team. That's too much... there is no telling what they're doing with that guy"
"From what I am seeing, one of those monster twins of yours is pecking the guy on the cheek"
"What?!"
Shortly earlier, Youen handed to Touma list of supplies.
"Get those substances and items. We need them for the next experiment."
"Remember, if you mess up with the quality, our floor will most likely become uninhabitable death zone" Kai smiled innocently, causing the rest to look at her in horror.
"What?"
"She is just messing with you. But seriously, do try to get good quality stuff, or we won't get anywhere, and the chance of biopoisoning will slightly increase" Youen motioned to Touma" Bend over"
"Why?"
"Just do it"
As Touma lowered his head, she stood on the tips of her toes and pecked his cheek.
"This is an encouragement for getting a job well done." the small scientist said, trying to cover her content expression, but failing spectacularly. "Now, sister, let's go"
"Hmm, hmm, hmm. Hmm, hmm, hmm. Hmm, hmm, hmm..."
As Kaai and Youen departed with their eerie humming, Rikuri clapped her hands in display of joy.
"Usually, you go with Kaibi for the shopping. It's so nice as a change of pace every now and then."
"Yes, it is. Rikuri-san, can you please check out those chemicals? Me and Amazora will look for food products"
Rikuri put a thumbs up and took the list from his hand
"Leave it to me, I will make sure that we will get those with the best, under-the-counter price. See you in a moment"
As she went inside the shop, Touma looked at Amazora.
"Hey, speak to me. Is everything alright? I can see that something is bothering you..."
It wasn't common for Amazora to be angry at Touma. It happened sporadically, mostly when Touma agreed with Kaibi instead of Amazora on forbidding the youngest sister to do something reckless. Even though Touma had Amazora's best intentions in mind, it usually ended in various objects being thrown at him, some of them really heavy (it was easy to forget, given her small body frame and the fact that she hauled her gattling gun only occasionally those days, but Amazora's telekinetic pull gave her quite formidable artificial strength).
"You like Hanatsuyu-san, right?"
"Well, it's complicated given the history we have and they are quite the strange sisters, but yeah, I came to like them, especially Youen. Why do you ask?"
Amazora sat down and pouted at him.
"She is practically the same age as me, so it's those fat sacks right? Onii-chan loves those fat bags more than me!"
"What? How did you get that idea?"
Amazora looked at Touma for a moment, before grabbing her dress straps and starting to pull them down.
Touma screamed and grabbed her arms, adjusting the dress back up.
"Wh...What are you doing?!"
Tears welled up in Amazora's eyes.
"I knew it! You wouldn't mind if onee-chans did that in front of you! Why must I be the only one who can't?!"
"Amazora, we are in public, of course I would mind. And I am not..."
"Liar! You don't like it because I am small! But my feelings for onii-chan are not worse than theirs. Why can't I prove it?!"
She sat down and it was evident she was a step away from crying.
It was honestly a little bit of mystery than they were having this conversation in front of the supermarket. But Amazora was still 12 and she tended to be rather unpredictable at times.
Touma looked at the sulking girl. Seeing Amazora, the most positive and go-lucky member of their household, so down, was honestly unnerving.
He sighed and sat down near the girl.
Was she upset about this for a long time and only now did her emotions found the right trigger?
"Amazora. Hey, look at me"
As the girl turned his way, Touma spoke
"I won't lie to you, age plays a role here. But I would never look down on you because of that. Do you remember how we fought when we first met?"
"Mhm"
"I went all out against you because I respected you. I acknowledged you as strong, and I will tell you this: I still want to do this."
He put his hand on girl's blond locks and calmly brushed through them in a caressing motion.
"Gokusai Amazora, you are brave and inspiring girl, who will grow up to be a strong and beautiful young woman. Remember what we talked about some time ago? You will make your own brand of wholesomeness, just by being you. And just like that, you don't have to do anything to prove your words."
"Onii-chan... I care for my onii-chan. Onii-chan is the one I hate less than everyone ever, the one I am willing to share with, the one I want to guard with my skill!"
"I accept your words. We know each other for a while now, and I came to respect you a lot. It doesn't matter if you are younger than me, I will take what you just told me and treat it with greatest respect. The only thing I ask is for you to do the same for me."
He held up his pinkie.
"I want you to have time to reflect on what you feel and what you wish to do. I am not leaving, and we hopefully have time. I am sorry that I can't react in the way to you would like right now, but can we promise one another to repeat this in a couple of years? There is a chance that all will change many times during that time..."
Amazora hooked her own pinkie with Touma in an instant and shook it.
"It won't! I will repeat that I love my onii-chan as many times as it takes!"
Touma smiled at that.
'It boils down to the fact that I don't know how serious she actually is. Waiting it out seems like the best option and least awkward for both of us. Plus, I honestly find it endearing that she is so straightforward.'
"I am counting on you then."
"Onii-chan... thank you for not laughing it off" the rare glimpse of calm maturity entered Amazora's voice " That means a lot."
"Don't mention it. It is me who should thank you for being patient with me. Hug for-"
He was already being hugged before he managed to finish the sentence.
As Touma reincorporated the embrace, he added
"Thank you for being patient with me."
"Better keep your word, onii-chan"
"I swear I will." Touma said, patting her on the head and separating from the hug" Now, let's get this shopping done"
(5 minutes later)
"Where is this premium chicken Rikuri told me about? I told Amazora to pick something for herself, but right now, two pairs of eyes would be better than one"
Kamijou Touma was in pursuit of various ingredients for incoming days, as he examined the various shelves with studious eye. In the meantime, Yakumaru Itsuki peaked from behind the entrance to the aisle.
"Okay, I will have this guy eating from the palm of my hand in no time." she said, reaching for her big cap.
Yakumaru Itsuki had a secret. Aside from being a morally-ambiguous dark side chemist, she was too cute for her own good. In a way that was rather distracting for her environment and quite troubling for herself. Asking out on a dates or for her to become a model was so frequent that she had to wear the cap to restrain her own beauty.
However...
'Beauty shall rule the world. It's only natural for me to have those fools obey me. It's a birthright of those who are born cute to guide those not gifted.'
Yakumaru was not entirely modest with her looks. She considered it natural gift that she could fully utilize to her advantage. Like with what she planned to do now.
Her long, brown hair fallen down as she fully transformed into her natural, cute self.
She came out of hiding and slowly approached Touma.
"Hello~"
The boy didn't react.
What Yakumaru did not know was that, through many years of hunting for sales, almost nothing could break Touma's concentration when it came to searching for food. He became fixated on it. It was not like Touma was not considering Yakumaru cute. But it was just the case of wrong time and wrong place. Even now, when he didn't really need to hunt for the lowest prices, he was barely hearing or seeing Yakumaru in search for things he needed to buy.
Slightly confused girl tried again.
"Hello handsome!~"
Again, Kamijou Touma didn't stop looking at the shelves.
Yakumaru frowned and slid in front of Touma.
He blinked and finally noticed her.
"Oh? Can you please move? You are kind of blocking the shelves"
Picture perfect smile of Yakumaru twitched.
"I was calling out to you earlier actually, handsome"
"Don't call me that. I am pretty average."
'This guy... looks like I'm really have to up the game'
She tossed her hair and made the most innocent face she could muster.
"Is there something you like seeing in front of you?" she winked at him.
Touma tried to look behind her.
"Well, you see, that's kind of the problem, because like I said, you are blocking the view of the shelves"
The brown haired chemist let out a girly laugh, even though her hand was itching to smash one her hidden vials in Touma's face.
"I like your sense of humour... but I was thinking about more... in front of you... if you would look at me..."
She grabbed Touma by the arms.
"Now, what do you see?" she asked.
Touma's face suddenly changed. Yakumaru saw it and smiled triumphantly.
'That's better. He's about to fall for me, like all the others. I was worried there for a second, but I should not overthink things'
"I see..."
"Hmm, tell me. List all the things. And also, there is someone who needs to talk with you, so if you go with me outside..."
"I see fresh premium chicken!" Touma beamed, manoeuvring behind Yakumaru and opening the fridge shelf " The best portion of low fat protein intake for best, occasional price, that Rikuri praised so much! Thank you so much, you really changed my perspective. I wouldn't notice it if it wasn't for you!"
CRACK!
Yakumaru Itsuki could very well turn into decaying stone statue, that was how she froze in place.
'I was ignored... in favour of a... dead bird... Me? ME? One of the cutest in the city?!'
Her mind was in such a shock that she missed Touma saying his goodbyes.
And this was the state Taromaru Seike found his companion.
"Huh? Yakkun? Yakkun! Get a hold of yourself! What the hell did this guy do?"
" Ignored... bird...rejected... chicken..."
"Yeah... that's not very informative. Guess it's the hard way time."
(LATER)
Touma was on his way back home with Amazora and Rikuri, when they noticed Seike standing by the side of the road.
"Oi. Are you Kamijou Touma?"
Rikuri stepped in front of the boy protectively.
"Who wants to know?"
But Touma put a hand on Rikuri's arm and spoke out
"Yes, it's me. Is there anything I can do for you?"
"I will be honest here. I need you to go with me, right now. My boss wants to speak with you and she is growing impatient"
Touma listened and then shook his head
"Sorry, but I have to go home and make food for my family" Touma said, looking at the sisters, who both blushed at the term. "I have to say no to you"
They made it a few steps forward, until Seike placed a hand on Touma's shoulder.
"Hey, don't give me that. It's really quite important. It would be unwise for you to just ignore that... come with me..."
'Heh, now that I am touching you, you will have to yield. My ability controls the coefficient of friction of everything within a meter around me. You will not be able to mo-"
However, Seike felt that Touma moved impatiently forward, one step, and then another, causing the feminine boy to slide across the ground.
'W-What? How can he walk normally? I maximized resistance throughout his entire body, it's enough to stop the tank from moving. How is that possible?!'
"Look, I don't care who sent you, but I am not going anywhere right now!" Touma spoke, grabbing shocked Seike with his right hand.
Seike, in utter confusion, formed a fist with his other arm. But...
"Leave onii-chan alone!" came an angry scream from Amazora who, in the moment of self-righteous passion to protect her brother, unleashed her own punch at friction controller.
Now, Seike noticed the punch, but wasn't too concerned with it. He could increase the friction of the air or decrease the friction on his clothes to avoid the impact of the punch, so per usual, he didn't pay it that much of a mind.
And that was how it would normally played out. But there was a difference this time, currently touching Seike's arm and being called two words:
'Imagine Breaker'
"Khhhh... aaaaaaaaaah?! O... oooooooooh..."
Amazora's punch in itself wasn't amazingly strong, but given the fact that she was straight in front of her target, was almost of an ideal height, and delivered an uppercut supported by a telekinetic upward pressure that was normally able to lift a gattling gun, it gained great impact.
It wasn't just any punch, oh no.
Gokusai Amazora punched Seike Taromaru straight between the legs.
A falsetto wail came out of Seike's throat as he grabbed his crotch, and collapsed to his knees, before promptly falling over to the side, his face contorting in pain.
Rikuri gave Amazora a concerned look
"Was that really necessary? That was quite an unladylike blow"
"But I was protecting onii-chan from evil onee-chan. And I did it only because it was against a girl"
"Well, I guess it's a bit of luck. If it was a guy, I assume that it would be tremendously painful"
Seike bit his lips to not hiss in anguish, as Touma ruffled Amazora's hair.
"Thanks for protecting me, that was very brave."
"Come on! Index onee-chan will again eat my portion in the fridge if we don't get the lunch ready soon"
"But... is it okay to leave her like this? She seems to be in a great pain"
"She will recover. It's not like anything like with the guy was punched there, she will come around soon enough"
"Okay then. Sorry, miss, I will try to find you another time. For now, we are leaving"
And so they left. Seike groaned, managing to overpower pain long enough to roll onto his back.
'That... little brat... 'if it was a guy' my ass!'
(LATER)
"What is wrong with our life lately? We run not into one, but two level 5s, then we go to sleep and wake up to almost completely eradicated dark side, and now some random guy seems to be leading us in circles. Am I going insane? It all shows that he somehow manages to stay in level 5s good graces or maybe even interact with them as equals. But what qualities would he bring for them to respect him so? I can't figure this out. It's like a law of nature, this city should not allow something like this to happen. It has no sense whatsoever."
"Leader, you are being too loud-" Naru, sitting on the stool by the bar counter and sipping apple soda, tried to calm the redhead down, but to no avail.
"No, I will not calm down. I didn't run away from my guardian here in the city, and risked my life in the darkness, to be turned into a god damn joke. I mean with this level of absurdity, what's next? Magic is real or something?!"
SLUUURP!
SLUUURP!
Meanwhile, on the left of the furious girl in the flu mask, Itsuwa and Kanzaki Kaori, who reunited in the bar with the intention to catch up before visiting Touma together, suddenly got very invested in the consumption of their respective beverages.
Naru sighed. Then, something behind her got her attention.
"Oh, Yakkun and Seike are ba... ahhh?!"
"Oh, great" Rita muttered, turning around "I can use some good news right... now?! What the hell happened to you?!"
Yakumaru was swaying from one side to the other with blank look of her face, mumbling something about a... chicken? Meanwhile, Seike was hobbling while holding his crotch area with one hand, as they sat down nearby.
"What happened to you guys?!"
"Honestly... I am starting... to question... if this guy is as normal... as you say he is"
(LATER, AT SEVENTH MIST)
The all members of the group was now heading to Seventh Mist shopping center, to relax a little bit and talk about their future plans.
Well, almost all of the members of the group were present.
"Where is Seike?" asked Rita, to which Naru shrugged.
"He said that he is taking a break. Besides, as unbelievable as it may be, he has videoconference with his date."
"Really? To like his style... it must be a really specific girl. I kind of want to meet her..." the small redhead shook her head" Well, no matter. Yakkun, Naru, listen to me. I made a decision"
Rita clenched her fists, as the group boarded the lift that was to take them to upper floor. The doors closed, as the ride up began.
"We lived under the fatum and terror of level 5s for far too long. I was incompetent, for allowing my fear to dictate our course of action. I should always remind myself of one simple thing: that we are together to bring down those shitty teachers. So let's focus on that. All of us, together! We will stay away from trouble, and slowly build our position in the city hierarchy. It might be a little though, given that with dark side's purge we will have to keep low profile, but we were in greater dangers together. We will be careful about this, we will make it through and take things on more reasonably. No more unpredictable elements, no more straying from our path, and most importantly..."
DING!
The lift ended its journey and the ecstatic Leader stepped through its doors, lifting her arms in the air.
"... no more of those accursed level 5s!"
As Yakumaru and Naru also exited the lift, they looked forward. And their jaws dropped at once.
Six pairs of eyes were staring at them.
"Huh? And who the hell are you?!"
"Oh, it's my fellow Gekoer! Hi!"
"Honestly, if I wasn't so evolved, I could have taken this rudeness ability personally"
"Oh, would you look at that... quite a familiar damn faces we have here..."
"Gutsy words for someone so tiny! Can I challenge your spirit then?"
Izumi Rita first noticed the clothes and accessories. A crouch, body of pure white, two sets of Tokiwadai unifroms, a fashionable dress, and what looked like a gym outfit.
At that moment, a now familiar spiky haired teen entered the scene, carrying what seemed a array of drinks.
"Sorry, I had to wait a little bit for a... oh?! Did I just walk into something?!"
'Why... why are almost all level 5 present in one place, and with that guy as well' both Naru and Yakumaru thought at the same time.
As for the Leader, Izumi Rita, she slowly fell backwards without batting an eye, passing out.
(SOME TIME EARLIER)
It requires some explaining to see why Scavenger girls walked into the surreal situation. After all, 6 out of 7 members of the level 5 in one place.
Kamijou Touma was walking through the mall after picking up one of Kaibi's dresses from the extra ironing treatment, when he noticed (second time this day!) noticed Accelerator, accompanied this time by Last Order, who quickly ran forward to greet him.
"It's been far too long, says Misaka Misaka as she jumps to Saviour's arms"
"Hello there! Did you grow a little?"
"Misaka is pleased with your good eye, says Misaka comparing you to certain someone who can't give a compliment for a life of him. Come join the cuddle, Misaka Misaka begs with puppy eyes."
"Hard pass." Nevertheless, Accelerator patted the girl's head as she separated from Touma" Hero, how are the criminals living in your vicinity?"
"Maidono is... wait, you said criminals? You know about..."
"Carrier and Decomposer? Of course I do. Seriously, this old prick left lot of mess, but also one of the greatest surveillance system."
"Oh, I guess so. Maidono is fine and doesn't really cause problems, same with the twins"
"Hmm... I have no reason to doubt that. If anyone can create such an absurd result, it is surely you"
"Thanks... I guess?"
Two boys looked at each other. With very specific kinds of smiles. Not overly warm, but also not dry and forced. They conveyed the spirit of cooperation in the present and the future.
Then, Last Order's eyes picked someone approaching, and grinned, while waving vigorously.
"Fremea-chan, screams Misaka Misaka happy to see yet another precious person"
"Do you see it? My friend is here as well!"
Small blond girl known as Fremea Seivelun ran forward from the side of the boy made almost entirely from gleaming white. Last Order did the same and they hugged mid way.
Accelerator and Kakine Teitoku tensed up, while carefully eyeing one another, with Touma standing by in a rather awkward silence. Fortunately for the atmosphere, girls had no such problem.
"Misaka wants to go to this toy shop with her friend, says Misaka as Misaka expectantly points at the shop in front of her"
"Nyah, I want to buy something cool to show Hamazura! Can I, can I?"
"If it stops you from whining about it... always stay by each other and don't stay be there long" Accelerator said.
"Fremea, don't leave my sight" Kakine also added, as he glanced at the shop with a see through windows" Be a good girl and behave!"
"Mhm!"
"Yes sir!"
As the two girls ran into the shop, Accelerator smirked at Kakine.
"Look at you, being all parent-y. It's a little bit underwhelming to see that for someone who can create everything, you focus on making most mundane of things, single dad"
Kakine gave him a wry smile.
"I don't want to hear that from you. Also, I would rather not hear from you at all, if possible"
"Then turn into something earless. And maybe lipless, that would be fucking amazing"
Touma watched in a certain fascination, as the conversation resembled two fingers balancing over nuclear warhead launch buttons. He heard that relations between two highest ranked espers in the city were tumultuous and bloody in the past. Even if they got better now, it was still unwise to let it all to escalate.
"H-Hello there. Let's be civilized here"
Kakine looked at him.
"Oh, Kamijou. I expected for you to be with Gokusai"
"I was with her but I had an errand to run and..."
"Oi, do not ignore me! Hero, we were speaking earlier"
"Kamijou is currently speaking with me"
"Huh?! You arrived later on!"
Touma backed away slightly
'It's no good, somehow it only got worse. I need to-'
"Guess who~"
Pair of female hands covered his eyes.
Touma froze, but he honestly had no idea. The girl was panting rather hard into his ear, making it hard to concentrate. She had impressive chest, but other than that, he had no clue. Maybe... the smell was something he experienced before.
"Just kidding. There is no way you would have guessed it in your current condition. Hello, my prince. I am the one you keep forgetting. Since you don't remember it, my name is Shokuhou Misaki"
Realization dawned in Touma's head, as he now realized that this was yet another meeting with the person who he repeatedly forgotten. He switched his way of acting.
"Nice to see you again, Shokuhou-san. Did you run to see me?"
"Call me Misaki" said the girl, embracing him with one arm. "I just got so excited when I noticed you in the distance that I had to come quickly and greet you. Besides, I wished to tell you that everything is fine both with me and mom. I am analyzing her memories and it's honestly... a lot to think through. But it will get better"
Touma decided not to comment on the fact that 'distance' Shokuhou spoke of was 60 meters or so, and instead reincorporated the hug. This caused the girl, who up to this point looked like she was in control of flirty exchange, to blush and look at him with an uncharacteristically meek face.
"Wha-"
"I don't truly remember you, but I know that I am important to you and that you went all this time without any sign of mutuality"
"But... you don't actually..."
"Even if my memories are not complete, I am deciding to trust you on this. I also felt that you needed this"
Misaki giggled and let her head rest on Touma's shoulder.
"Yeah, you are right. To think that you are so compassionate towards me even in the situation we are in right now... some days I can't find right words to describe how much I love you, my prince..."
"It's one of them after the other..." Accelerator looked at the Mental Out with look of bored acceptance
"And it seems like it's not the end..." Kakine pointed at the quickly approaching person, who practically slid between Touma and Misaki.
"W-W-What is the meaning of this?! Shokuhou, I knew I was right in tailing you!"
"Ara, Misaka-san? What a timing ability! To what do we owe this displeasure?"
"Idiot, you said you were going to spend time with me today!"
"And I will. There is still 2 hours of time... don't tell me you came here that earl-"
"N-N-No, of course not! Shokuhou was acting in a very suspicious way, so I followed her!"
"Marvellous stalker ability, Misaka-san, but I think someone who dances around the subject without addressing it honestly is even more suspicious"
"What do you mean by that?"
'What is going on. At that rate, things can't get any-'
"Huh? What the hell are you all doing here?"
'Seriously, Mugino-san toooooooooo?! What are you doing, fate?!'
"Accelerator" Mugino gave a curt nod, with begrudging respect" It's rare to see you outside those days"
"It's not like this is a regular thing" grumbled the strongest esper "Believe me, it's starting to get so annoying out here that I am honestly grateful for my cell"
"He says that, even though he was making a goo-goo eyes at Last Order moments ago. And going out won't help you with your pale skin" Kakine teased the number 1.
"You are literally a walking, talking, humanoid mass of glowing white substance, so you have no fucking right to lecture people about being pale"
"For some reason when you describe my dark matter, it sounds really disturbing"
"You hear what you wish to hear. Your ability is okay. If only you weren't its user..."
Leaving discussion of two boys aside, Mugino turned her attention to the part of the group that interested her much more.
"Well, well, well, I keep hearing about you being a center of attention, but this is something else"
"Why do you care?" Mikoto stepped between Touma and Mugino" And why are you even here?"
"For your information, I was here searching for clothes. Places like this one have undiscovered hits from time to time. Then I saw you wasting time"
"W-What do you mean by that? Idiot, at which point that this psycho got invested in you?"
"Kamijou-san, this is something that would be really nice to know for me too" Misaki smiled wryly at two other level 5 girls.
Poor Touma was forced in the middle of triangle formation, with each girl giving the other a cross look. He tried his best not to lean onto Mugino's or Shokuhou's breasts, given close proximity, and not to be noticeably aware that there was a lot more space from Mikoto's side.
"Can't say I approve you getting close to him. I heard some rather nasty stories" Misaki pointed out to Mugino.
"Can't recall asking for your opinion"
"I can't allow him to be with you either. Besides, what qualities do you bring?" Mikoto addressed Mugino with a tinge of venom in her voice" I know him the longest, we were through a lot and I think we make a really great team. I bet you won't even respect what he wants and only force him onto having things your way"
"Oh please, Misaka-san. This might be true, but it has no worth without considering actual feelings. I, on the other hand, can say them day and night."
"A-Actions may speak louder than words!"
"If we are concerned about that, I am clearly superior to both of you, brats"
"If we are talking about murder and other cruelty, maybe, but actual relationship? Don't make me laugh!"
The discussion turned into a verbal hot potato and Touma was actually pulled in three different directions from time to time.
"I think the fact that we know each other for so long and got to know each other quite well through battles speaks out a lot. Also, I am more than willing to support him in any way that I can. Not like someone who can't run 50 meters or who will try to kill him on a first tantrum"
"From what I've heard from my network, you tormented him as well."
"That was... in the past, or when he really pissed me off. B-But I am not the judge here, this idiot still wanted to spend time with me and we were about to go on a trip together"
Misaki and Mugino looked at Touma with eyebrows raised and he shivered.
"Well... Misaka was quite intense about this... but it's true that I wanted to spend time with her. We could have a rocky start, but as of now, most of the time she is actually really fun to be around"
Mikoto felt honestly touched at those words and couldn't help but puff her chest in pride.
However, the sudden wave of irritation only motivated two other girls
"That may be so, but in my case, we are in the anteroom of something truly beautiful. I am willing to give up my own safety just to keep him safe. And besides that, I already have a blessing from my own mother!"
'Who happens to want for me and her to do the deed together with him, but there is no way I am saying it now.'
Now, both Mikoto and Mugino became unsure.
"W-Well... if it came to pass..." Mikoto mumbled, her cheeks turning to darker shade of red" Moma also approved him. And as infuriating as it may be, they became close without my knowledge..."
Meanwhile, Mugino bit her lip, as she slightly glanced at Touma.
If she could help it, she would keep him away from her family.
Shizuri's father was a ruthless, manipulative, and dangerous man. She remembered him as always flanked by bodyguards, as he oversaw the dark side of their family dealings, like drugs, weaponry, and illegal gambling. He sat on the chair with a look of bored disdain of someone who has everything and is getting tired of thinking what to get next.
Her father was impeccably dressed, elegant, and articulate. He didn't seem like a gangster and fit perfectly into the image of a wealthy wheat investor and distributor, who helped feed the hungry of the world. But there was an intense fire in his eyes with a clear message that people will get burned if they got too close.
He was a man of such influence and power that most rules didn't apply to him. He was a perfectionist and didn't tolerate failure, albeit he could also be generous if he deemed the action remarkable enough.
As for Shizuri's mother, she and head of Mugino family didn't come together from love. When one of the biggest rival mafia in a wheat market industry tried to steal from Mugino's turf in the desperate attempt of maintaining their pride, they were raided in retaliation. Some perished, majority fled. Needless to say, the company went bankrupt and the head of that mafia gave his own daughter to Mugino family, trying to save his own life. He failed, but Shizuri's father took the youngest daughter of his rival nonetheless, as a victory award.
Now, as an incredibly rich bastard dealing with darkness, it was not at all surprising that the boss had multiple mistresses and concubines. Like a certain english king, he was conservative in his pursuit of a male heir. He usually got frustrated or angry at his female partners, sending them away quite frequently, as for some reason, fertility or not, he couldn't get a child for a long time.
Shizuri's mother, Shizue, was different than others.
When she arrived, she had it rough. She was a rather distant and cold woman, seemingly submissive. She allowed herself to be used and violated in various ways, as she had to endure being the odd one out in the structure of the mafia.
There were always internal factions within the organization. Everybody had their favourite among boss's lovers, for varied reasons. Even though Shizue's opponents claimed she was only interesting to the boss because she was, to put it vulgarly, "a very sexy piece of meat", they usually overlooked one crucial detail. Albeit the 'victory price' of a young woman was indeed very attractive, there was something more important to the whole picture. In contrast to many other mistresses, Shizue was a true daughter of a mafia, even if smaller than Mugino family. Behind calm and obedient mask, lied cunning, resourceful woman, intelligent enough to not get accused of anything, but determined to get everything she wanted. That included revenge on those who wronged her. She never raised her voice, and her wrath was more similar to the predator silently laying in wait.
That determination eventually led to birth of Shizuri. But as other mistresses still could bring the danger to Shizue's position, she used her skills to diminish the threat. Some of lovers around the boss mysteriously disappeared, some had accidents, and when one started to show signs of pregnancy, she was sent away, neither she or her child ever returning.
Shizuri, who learned about it later on, could only wonder about this situation. Did her mother do this to protect her from possible future attacks (her potential half-siblings could cause others to try to get rid of her) or did she used her to secure her own position in the family, as the mother of the only heiress? And how much of that did her father knew and allowed?
Both of her parents were rather distant. As Shizue practically monopolized her lover's attention, she brought her daughter up by instructing her how to act and navigate through the world of darkness, just like she did. By this point, she became respected in the family. Although no one could prove it in all certainty, everyone knew that she seized control of all the women in the house, with remaining mistresses turned into secretaries or servants, and disposed of the rest. Shizuri had a theory that her father allowed that because he saw potential in the mother of his only (as far as it was known) heir.
And so, Shizuri had everything as long as she behaved and acted like a proper member of their familial darkness. She had everything and was everyone's favourite 'milady'. Even though she never experienced true parental love. Her parents were definitely supportive and she couldn't say she was discarded, but closeness? Empathy? Warmth? Emotional support? She never got that and never knew warmer side of emotional spectrum until she met ITEM and Touma. Her father saw her as extension of his family business, being finally convinced in her strength, while her mother secured her own position through the fact that she birthed Shizuri. So while she interacted with her, she didn't do it as a caring mother, but as a rather demanding woman, who happened to give her life.
In fact, if Meltdowner were to compare it to something, her parents together were like players of 3 dimensional chess with loaded guns beside their backs. They had their own twisted game of control and revenge, and Shizuri would not be surprised if her mother actually wanted to take over the organization. Not that father would allow it, but she still could plot it.
Pushing those thoughts away, she decided to say something else.
"All of that is nice, but me and him actually did something substantial"
"What kind of... substantial?"
"We kissed. On the lips. You know, like someone who doesn't immaturely obsess over indirect kisses" Mugino didn't even try to hide the inflection of superiority as she said that. "You are all talk, but when it comes to actually doing something, you will lose with your elders and be only undetermined brats."
Misaki and Mikoto almost visibly recoiled at that. After all, despite their longer history with Touma, neither of them had opportunity to truly kiss him, not counting Misaki's kiss on the brow.
"I... I bet that it was accidental" Mikoto shouted in defiance, sparks scattering from her body.
Misaki frowned. She could feel the frustration rising within her, and she pouted, with her fists clenched. She turned to still shocked Touma
"Misaki-san?"
"I apologize in advance from what's about to happen. It might be awkward for you, given your memory situation, but I promise to make it worthwhile to the point when you'll forget it"
"W-What are you talking about? What are you doing now?"
"Something you sadly won't remember, but it's just a little bit of selfishness ability from me. Hope that's okay."
"I don't und... mmhhmmmm?!"
Shokuhou Misaki enveloped Touma with her arms as she pressed her lips against his. They stumbled backwards a little bit, as Misaki tested how much feeling she can put into the kiss for the best effect.
It seemed that she intended to kiss until their air ran out. But as it did, the girl gave them only time to inhale.
"Misa...ki...san..."
"Not... yet..."
He was kissed more ferociously than before. Meanwhile, Mikoto stood in absolute shock and horror, her fist clenching and unclenching. Mugino wasn't fairing much better, the display in front of her being a total surprise.
Touma was torn on what to do. On the one hand, he had to admit that being kissed by someone he didn't remember (even if he had the general idea who the girl was supposed to be) was strange, to say the least. On the other, he couldn't deny that it felt immensely good. The distracting factor was that Misaki was making sounds (Touma couldn't even really classify them) that did not help him make the decision any faster.
Until Shokuhou finally separated from him, her slightly glossed over eyes slowly returning to normal.
"You won't remember the touch or taste of my lips, but I am definitely remembering this, and saving it for the future reference, when we will get your memories back" she whispered to the flabbergasted Touma" And just like with my confession, I am willing to repeat this. As. Long. As. It. Takes."
Last 5 words were each accentuated with 5 respective pecks. Honestly, Shokuhou looked like she was a step from starting to kiss him again, but was stopped by the sudden electrict spear launched in their direction. Touma quickly shielded the girl and negated the blast.
"Biri-Biri, let's calm down..."
Mikoto was looking at Touma with a look of hurt in her eyes. Lights around them started to flicker.
Mugino wore one of the scariest smiles people present ever saw on her face.
"Do you dare to mock me, Mental Out?"
Despite a very obvious warning, Shokuhou still winked to her rival.
"How is that for the undetermined brat?"
Orbs that appeared around Mugino made a sound Touma never heard before in real life. It was a little too similar to the sounds used in movies when core of the nuclear reactor was having a meltdown.
He quickly grabbed the hand of Meltdowner, causing the orbs to disappear.
"Let go, Kamijou. I need to teach her who is the boss here"
"By this point I know you a little bit and whatever is going to happen isn't going to be good for Misaki-san's body staying intact."
"I will just fry her a little bit. Railgun, what do you think about frying her chest off"
Shokuhou actually paled a little, backing away to where Mikoto stood.
Even though she would normally clap with joy on that suggestion, #3 esper only nodded absentmindedly.
She felt terrible. Even if she was tempted to just blast Touma again, she began to understand that it wouldn't change a thing.
For a longest time, she didn't want to admit that she wanted Touma's attention. But because of that indecisiveness and some strange, stupid pride, she was now left in the dust.
She knew she was being left behind. She recalled her talk with a girl in the toilet (that, although Mikoto had no idea about it was Gokusai Kaibi). Did she apply anything, any advice from this conversation? No, she kept telling herself that she will figure something out, even though she knew Touma was object of attention of many other girls.
What did her actions even accomplish? Confronted with the fact that despite her knowing Touma the longest time, other level 5 girls seemed to be on the front of rivalry, Mikoto's heart twisted and ached. She didn't want to feel like this. She needed and wanted to do something.
As it all was happening, Accelerator and Kakine, who were earlier engaged in rather vibrant arguement, stopped and started to watch the scene between Touma and the girls.
"This is... strangely relaxing" Kakine admitted.
"I don't know, it's as much of a hassle as everything... but the faces hero makes at all that are amusing, that's true"
"Hypothetically... who do you think will come out on top in regards to Kamijou Touma?"
"Out of those that we are forced to share a level with? I really, really don't give a shit, but if I were to say... third string, I guess"
"Huh? Railgun?"
"You have a problem with that?"
"But obviously Meltdowner has a natural advantage here!"
" If that Railgun is in any way like her clones, which I know quite a lot about, she may change everyone's expectations on a whim."
"For me that's a little overrated assumption. Meltdowner certainly has what it takes, I guarantee it as her former enemy"
"Well, if it was a contest who can kill him first, then I would agree, but..."
The fact that Kakine and Accelerator were having that kind of uncharacteristic conversation and managed to argue about it only showed the absurdity of the situation around them.
And then...
"If you were to kiss any of us" Mikoto spoke" If it was your free choice... who would you like to kiss the most?"
Mugino and Touma got quiet, Shokuhou also looked forward curiously.
Mikoto did not know why she chose to say this specifically. It just slipped through.
"W-Who would I..."
"For once, I want to go along with Railgun" Mugino nodded" out of 3 of us, who would you go to kiss out of your free will?"
Touma looked at Misaki, but she also seemed intent to hear his answer.
"You are all very beautiful... I can't possibly choose..." Touma said nervously, as the girls began to close in once again.
"That's still not the answer" Mikoto said firmly.
But it was the truth. Touma considered each of the girls interesting and attractive. He also knew that any answer would result in something unlucky. It reminded him of the myth he once read. 3 goddesses arguing who was the fairest one and prince having to do the choosing.
'We are a great team, we were with each other through and through. I am someone you can relay on. I changed myself for you' whispered vision of Mikoto.
'I came so far in journey towards your love, I will always stand by your side with everything I have. I will give you my body and soul each night and day' tempted vision of Misaki.
'I opened up for you and trust you in walking together through the darkness. I have everything you want. I can make you feel and experience things you never even imagined' sang the vision of Shizuri.
The problem was that said choice started the war in the myth. And Touma didn't want that here.
As he desperately sought a way out, he noticed something while looking up.
"Is that... Sogiita?"
"Nice try, but don't avoid-"
"No, I mean seriously, he-"
CRASH!
Something, or rather someone, crashed down through the ceiling, only to emerge a moment later from the pile of rubble.
"Hah hah! I guess I got a little carried away with my guts!"
"Him too?!" exclaimed everyone present.
"Get... off... of me!"
A pile of rubble exploded and frazzled Accelerator emerged. Next to him, a white mist swirled up and formed a body of Kakine Teitoku.
"What the hell are you doing here? We seriously don't need our shared IQ to lower even more. It's enough that he is here" Accelerator pointed at pure-white esper, who rolled his eyes.
"I was training and doing high jumps. I thought I can surpass my limits and finally, I jumped so high that I ended up falling and smashing all the way to here... oh, Kamijou! How is my gutsy bro doing?!"
"Nice to see you too. I was just... thinking... to get some drinks!"
Touma said that, breaking away from the girls' encirclement, and leaving before anyone could stop him.
"He got away" Mugino crossed her arms.
Mikoto suddenly got the realization. She was to still spend time with Touma later on. She should do something that would make him happy. This was the first step she could do. All this time, all she did was doing things that pleased her, with no regard to Touma. She really should listen to him instead. Yes! This was something she should strive to do. Being focused and kind to other person mattered much more than all of the flirting in itself.
However, she still didn't know what to do when it came to a physical intimacy. She... She couldn't just get so personal all of the sudden. But she probably should, given that she was now the only one without kissing on the lips.
Honestly, what kind of person would just shamelessly all those small steps and went for the kiss?
In that moment, Shokuhou sneezed next to her. Maybe it was because it followed Mikoto's thought, as if answering it, or maybe because this small, cutesy achoo made Misaki's breasts bounce to a ridiculous and clearly exaggerated degree, Mikoto's mood went back into darkness.
"Don't you dare give me a cold"
"As delightful as it would be to have you away in bed for a few days, I am not sick. Air pollution has some ticklishness ability over my sinuses."
"You know what, to improve my mood, maybe I should try to fry those sacks of fat"
"Hyah? D-D-Don't say something so disturbing!"
"Disturbing? I will do you a favour, it will be much greater for your back... now, stand still... Poitrines de Shokuhou bien cuites aux herbes et au miel"
"Even if you switch to french, it doesn't sound less threateniiiiiiiiiiiing!"
The three level 5 boys watched Misaka chase Shokuhou for a moment, before Kakine spoke
"Number 7... we need a tie-breaker to kill the boredom. It might sound stupid..."
"It really is" Accelerator nodded, massaging his face with a hand.
"...but out of 3 of those girls, which one would give the highest chances of becoming a pair with Kamijou?"
"Hmm..." Gunha did a squat, examining the girls, before snapping his fingers" I've got it. I think star-chan"
He gave a response no one was expecting.
"Mental Out? Why?"
"Even though she has no stamina, her guts and loyalty are high. I feel her conviction when it comes to her feelings"
"How do you 'feel' the conviction... wait, don't answer, with you fucking 'guts', don't you? I swear, this is so dumb..."
In that moment, a lift arrived. The doors opened and...
"... no more of those accursed level 5s!"
All the members of said level looked at 3 girls who appeared on the scene
"Huh? And who the hell are you?!" Mugino spat out in irritated tone
"Oh, it's my fellow Gekoer! Hi!" Mikoto smiled and waved to stunned Rita.
"Honestly, if I wasn't so evolved, I could have taken this rudeness ability personally" Misaki wheezed out, tired after being chased.
"Oh, would you look at that... quite a familiar damn faces we have here..." Accelerator grinned in a way that chilled to the bone.
"Gutsy words for someone so tiny! Can I challenge your spirit then?" Gunha smashed a fist against a open hand.
What happened next is already known to history.
(LATER)
Rita came around 10 minutes later and now was watching the level 5s and Kamijou Touma from the distance.
"How is that possible? For almost all of them to be together?"
"Apparently, they are all here by accident." said Naru.
"I fell through the roof!" came enthusiastic shout of Sogiita Gunha, who somehow heard them even from where he stood.
"This is... impossible. They are clearly..."
Level 5s were acting close with Touma. Even observing for a short amount of time would confirm that. Boys were conversing with him, with a distance but also with respect in case of Accelerator and Kakine, and with overwhelming friendliness and humour when it came to Sogiita. As for the girls, they frequently looked at the spiky haired boy or positioned themselves to be close to him, while also looking at each other with slight suspicion.
Fremea and Last Order also returned. The former, aside from her guardian, spoke with Sogiita Gunha, who was laughing while ruffling her hair. Last Order had a warm reunion with Mikoto, but also surprised everyone by being greeted by Mugino, as the pair met once in the past.
"This guy is... impossible. This can't be happening!"
"But it is. As annoying as it might get, this guy somehow interacted with us as if it was nothing. Not only that, but he managed to get some of us back on the right track"
Three girls jumped. Accelerator appeared behind them soundlessly, with a thin smile on his lips.
"A-Accelerator?!"
"Yo, kindergartner squad. How was it... Vultures, or something?"
"I-It's Scavengers!"
"Oh, that's right, now I remember. Wasn't there one more of you? Hmm, that doesn't matter for you. You see, hero is a very specific person, with both power and mentality that transcends every classification or logic common sense would provide. He even managed to battle us and was never deterred"
"Battle? Don't tell me that he survived battling level 5s..."
"Survived? He claimed victories. In the past, it would be difficult for me to admit, but seeing that it ultimately gave me my justice and family... I admit that I was bested" Accelerator glanced at Touma, as Rita's legs started to tremble
"N-No..."
If Kamijou Touma somehow defeated the strongest in the Academy City... how much of a monster he was?
"W-We don't want to be a bother... girls, let's g-"
Red eyes flashed dangerously.
"I don't remember finishing this conversation. Do you really want to turn your back on me?"
Rita froze as Accelerator slowly walked around her and looked down at her, causing the poor girl to sweat in terror. Naru and Yakumaru also shared looks of fear.
"That's what I thought. You didn't think I would actually let you go, did you? Surely you heard about my Operation Handcuffs. Operation, that you conveniently slept through. I didn't forget about the shit you've done on the dark side, very same that I was also part of. Now that I see you in the flesh, I simply must correct this oversight"
"B-But... you can't-"
"Huuuuuh? Really now? I don't think you're competent enough to talk about what I can or can't do. If I wanted to, I could choke you by removing oxygen, make your bodies break down through gravity, pressure, or radiation... you can't count things that I could do to you. What I would, and will do, is a different story though. I am done playing a villain like that. However, that doesn't mean you can forget the difference of power. Mind your step, kindergartners.
I noticed you earlier during the day and I was honestly close to incarcerating you on the spot. But the hero stopped me by whining and begging not to do it."
"He... He did? But why? We are strangers to him, we didn't do anything to make him act like this"
Accelerator let out a bark of laughter.
"You honestly have no idea about how this guy thinks. He didn't saw criminals, only girls he wanted to save form prison."
"We...we don't need pity!"
"Really? That's wonderful, the guards will be thrilled. The prison is now filled with people from many levels of darkness... some of which you probably screwed over. I can only imagine how much of a warm welcome they will give you..."
Three girls went silent for a moment, before Rita spoke
"What do you propose?"
Accelerator looked back at Touma, still conversing with the other level 5s, Last Order and Fremea.
"I have an idea that seems rather amusing. You won't be imprisoned, but you have to play on my rules."
"What kind of a person is he... that guy?"
"Judge it yourself... he is a hero, he is an idiot, he is someone weaker and stronger than me at the same time. He is the one who forgives."
"Forgives?"
"Yes. Unless you won't to inflict hurt on others. In that sense, he is even stranger than level 5s. Monsters and villains are at least predictable, but there is no telling what can happen when a good man truly snaps"
"What do you wish from us?"
"Let's call it... a special community service"
(FEW DAYS LATER)
"How and why did all of that happen? I know we have no choice but... it's still kind of infuriating!"
Sakuragi Naruha was dressed up in a maid uniform and was cleaning the paintings in the living room.
"Then again, it's only thanks to him that we are relatively safe... I guess we owe this guy, huh?"
In past couple days, drastic changes occurred in the life.
Accelerator told them to expect information from him. Once Touma and level 5s left, they too departed back to their base, where they explained the entire thing to Seike. The fourth member did not want to believe it, until Accelerator somehow appeared on the flat screen of their base, scaring everyone almost to death.
He explained in an authoritarian tone that Scavengers were transferring allegiance through a permanent three sided contract, that was to be obeyed without question. Accelerator warned them that they were under close observation and he had means to know instantly if they overstepped the agreement. Should such thing happen, they were to be swiftly imprisoned, in far worse conditions than originally intended.
One side of the contract was of course Scavengers. The second was Accelerator. As a punishment, they were on Board Chairman's mercy and were now his special unit, his secret task force beyond his confinement. For what purposes, he did not disclose.
But the third party came as a biggest surprise.
"You are to obey him and work for him. This is as much of a binding part of the agreement as mine, maybe even more. This is true form of your sentence. I will leave the details to him."
Yes, the third party was Kamijou Touma. From this day forth, Scavengers were to start working for him as an equivalent of the social service.
Accelerator commanded them to pack all of their stuff and move them to the certain apartament complex. With Accelerator now speaking to them through tablet, they unloaded their possessions, with furniture set to arrive next day, in the smaller apartment at the end of the floor and went to number 913.
It was then when they were greeted by Kamijou Touma, who already known of the situation. With a smile, he proposed to get along, even given the specific situation. He then offered for the girls to join him and his friends to dinner.
Rita (out of uneasiness) and Naru (out of pride) wanted to refuse, but Yakumaru's grumbling stomach revealed how hungry they actually were. With that, they finally relented and stepped through the doorstep of Kamijou + Gokusai apartment.
That was the beginning. Soon, they were given their respective roles. Since then, many days passed.
Naru's task was cleaning and maintenance of all the apartments, a maid and handywoman of sorts. Yakumaru became a cook and assistant of resident chemists (which initially almost gave her a heart attack from Touma), with Touma apparently immensely appreciating her cooking help (with all the permanent residents and growing number of guests, dinners tended to be massive, so cooking in two or three people was a heaven sent). Seike was made an occasional chauffeur, but most of the time, he was doing some surveillance work for Accelerator. Meanwhile Rita was tasked to oversee the shopping and frequent to Touma's school, for the reasons yet unknown.
Of course, this didn't go without an echo. Touma had to deal with visibly jealous Rikuri, who basically hugged him protectively in presence of Yakumaru, as if saying 'enough dark side chemists is enough'. Similarly, the apartament was basically raided by the furious Maika and Maria Kumokawa. The latter was especially vocal on Kamijou not hiring the professional maid and if Touma didn't know better, it almost sounded like she wanted that position instead of Naru.
Each one of the girls coped with the change in a different way.
Yakumaru Itsuki changed in behaviour ever since they became neighbours of Kamijou and her friends. She spent a lot of time looking in the mirror, brushing her hair, and paying her already cute looks a lot of attention. She was also the most touched by Touma's gesture of saving them from prison.
For some context: Yakumaru got wrong idea that Touma didn't find her attractive, because she tried to flirt with him at the wrong time, when he wasn't really paying attention. Because of that experience, she got determined to get his attention and woo him to heal her wounded pride. Meanwhile, Touma actually found Itsuki very cute when he actually saw her for the first time and sometimes her actions caused him to reach out to her. But because the girl assumed she wasn't interesting enough for Touma during their initial meeting, she interpreted such actions as signs of pity, which in turn caused her to withdraw. This caused Touma to became concerned and in the end interpreting it as the sign of the girl not liking him. That in turn caused Yakumaru to once again be swayed in favour of trying to get Touma's attention and entire cycle repeated again.
Naru was the one who found it the hardest to adjust to new life. It wasn't even her work, although it was a bit dull. She was slightly jealous of Seike's apparently more dangerous jobs. But what pissed her off the most was the amount of affection that her Yakkun was giving to the guy she freshly met. Out of spite and bitterness, she confronted Touma over various things, being aware of the consequences, being intent on showing Yakumaru and the others his true self.
Yakumaru fiercely denied any change in her feelings. So Naru convinced to try to take Touma down when he was distracted.
"O-Of course, I am gonna do it!"
"Then... I am going!"
Swirling her vials and holding them between her fingers, Yakumaru slowly approached Touma from behind.
Only couple of drops in the food and he will be dealt with.
But then the boy turned around with a smile.
"Oh, Yakumaru-san? Is it lunchtime already? I can do the cooking for today, so you can rest a little if you want"
Naru clenched her fists. Come on, Yakkun, don't be fooled and just do it.
"I... I..." the brown haired chemist bit her lip.
Come on, come on...
"I want to help you anyway!" the girl finally said, flashing her cuttest smile.
WHAT?! WHO WAS THAT GIRL?! WHY IS SHE LOOKING LIKE SHE IS READY TO HAVE HIS BABY?! MAYBE THIS IS HIS HIDDEN ABILITY OR SOMETHING?!
"Really? Do you have some chemical seasoning in those vials?"
"Those... no, it's nothing important. Just leave it."
Naru wanted to bash her head against the wall. Her irritation reached its peak when Touma and Yakumaru both reached for the fallen bowl on the floor.
"What is this, a C-class movie? Don't blush, both of you! And don't turn away from each other!"
Sometime later, as Touma went out, smiling Yakumaru was patted on the back by less than thrilled Rikuri, accompanied by Hanatsuyu Kaai.
"Hey, would you mind telling me what is this?" she said, holding up one of Yakumaru's vials.
Yakumaru shivered slightly under that gaze.
"Cause to me, it looks like batrachotoxin. Good quality one" oldest Gokusai commented.
"C31H42N2O6." Kaai muttered lazily" Is a alkaloid neurotoxin. Extracted from amazonian amphibians, and infamously used in poison darts. It works by overriding sodium ion channels permeability to excitable cell membrane"
"This depolarizes the membrane and blocks the transmission of nervous signals to the muscles, which in turn causes paralysis, suffocation, cardiac arrest. Cells become necrotic and what follows is death. Did you synthesize this yourself?" Rikuri asked.
Yakumaru nodded slowly. Kaai whistled.
"Mix Master sure is handy ability for the chemist. It lets you speed up the process tremendously"
"We could use help of someone with your talent. But before that... I know that you are not the one who thought that up. You already got quite... mushy with Touma, as irritating for me this might be. Paper-chan, I can see you and I know it was your idea. Come from behind that wall"
When resigned Naru joined them, Rikuri looked at them coldly.
"Listen, I am going to only say this once. I know you might be confused or annoyed with this situation. But I will not tolerate you trying to do something with Touma. I am willing to let this one slide because he would want you to be given a chance. But I warn you. I actually changed for the better since my dark side times, but I also happened to have much more mercy BEFORE I fell in love with this man. Even if I am yet to properly confess, I do not agree to live in the world without him. I will be watching you for a while, hope you understand. If you do something like this ever again, I will make sure you won't get away with it and that you will pay dearly. You get one warning. That was it. Do you happen to know what I have here?"
She put out a vial on her own into the light. Kaai smiled, lazily taking a sip of coffee from the mug.
"Tetrodotoxin, C11H17N3O8. This is a neurotoxin, extracted from the pufferfish. It works as a natural counter to batrachotoxin. While it is not any antidote, it can reverse or diminish some of the effects of your poison. As it works by blocking sodium channels and inhibiting the action potential of neurons..."
"... and batrachotoxin takes effect by keeping the sodium channels overdriven and permanently opened... "Kaai chimed in" by administrating the natural chemical antagonist, they will cancel each other out..."
"... and the action potential will return, as the membrane will once again repolarize itself" finished Yakumaru" That's amazing... you created a perfect counter for my poison."
"Quite interesting chemical, tetrodoxin. Of many poisons I used, this one is one of the deadliest. One of the scariest parts is..." Rikuri's eyes darted to look at the Scavenger girls" it doesn't pass through blood-brain barrier, so as each and every muscle gives out and becomes paralyzed, the victim is consciouss through every second till his death..."
Rikuri was just speaking casually. But, intentionally or not, this desription, combined with a warning she gave them earlier, it gave bone-chilling effect.
It could be easily forgotten because of her somewhat airheaded, bubbly nature and lack of physical prowess, but Gokusai Rikuri could be threatening and badass once her loved ones were threatened. Contrary to Yakumaru, who developed wide range of utility chemicals with lethality aspect being secondary, Rikuri and Hanatsuyu twins favoured poisons and lethality first. Or that was the case for Rikuri, before she met Touma.
"If you promise to behave and get along with us, let's forget about this. I really want you to have a second chance to be honest, so don't make me do anything drastic"
After that, they didn't attempt to use violent means anymore.
Kamijou Touma, despite everything, he had amazing patience. He made sure his flatmates, three blond sisters, and a nun with a strange witch doll, to accept their new, irregular neighbours. He allowed them to dine together, often asked if they needed anything, and acted more like a friend than their boss. They were free to do anything they liked beside their duties too, although it was expected for them to contact Touma first.
By this point, Naru's desperate and rebellious efforts actually seemed like she really cared for the boy.
This realization caused her to pout and cross her arms, as she used her levitating pieces of paper to clean the stains on the table.
"There is no way I am ever, ever, ever liking this guy! No matter how nice he is, how awesome is the food he cooks, and how he generally saved our asses form prison, I am not letting him have Yakkun. I must protect her!"
Seike accepted the change without much of a problem. He carried on with his daily activities, sometime picked something up from the city, and remained neutral or cooperative if needed. Well, notable affair concerning him was the reveal of his girlfriend.
When Seike hesitantly showed the photo, Touma almost didn't choke on his drink.
The photo showed the blond haired individual with blue eyes, a brown and yellow tunic as well as metal belt. When Touma looked again, his eyes widened even more.
He knew that person. He knew that person very well.
After asking a few more question, Touma went to the corridor and grabbed his head in his hands.
'How in hell is Thor Seike-san's girlfriend? They are both thinking that the other one is a girl? How... how ridiculous must the web of coincidences here? I heard that dating site's AI may try to correct the assigned gender on its own if someone has long hair or feminine features, but... just wow. And what the hell was Thor thinking?"
Touma got his answers though. According to Seike, his 'girlfriend' who in reality (somehow) was Touma's old buddy Thor of Gremlin, didn't get an account on their own, instead it was created by a friend. However, Thor was using it to find people of matching interest. So, in Touma's mind, the situation presented itself:
1. Thor got account thanks to other party, possibly Marian, who was not as opposed to technology as most magicians.
2. Thor used the profile to scout people to fight or people interested in combat.
3. Seike used the dating app normally and found Thor on it.
4. Somehow, both of their genders got misclassified, causing them to believe that the other party was a female.
5. The lie (again, somehow) functioned till this date.
Touma doubted that Thor really had romantic feelings for something outside the battle, but the absurd of the entire situation was just mindblowing to him.
"Oi, everything alright?"
He turned around to see Naru with hands on her hips. He smiled at her.
"Were you concerned?"
The paper manipulator crossed her arms in the display of theatrical indifference.
"No. I was...I was weirded out. You were acting weird around Seike and the thing with his girlfriend. So what's up?"
"I am not telling you. You have an energy of 5 year old child in a sandbox and there is no way you won't tell him"
"Ugh, next time you will be in the dire need of toilet paper, you will regret that!"
"You are pretty aggressive for a maid. And the thought that you can control toilet paper is honestly terrifying"
"It's not like I wanted to be a maid in the first place, but you are good enough to let you leave. Plus it beats whatever Accelerator had planned."
Naru was bluffing, as it was said earlier. During the very first days, she discovered that all the residents of the overpowered posed significant problems. Yakkun told me about the oldest blond, but that pesky power of mental manipulation and gigantic gattling gun are issues on their own. Not to mention that the miko girl had some strange, multi-layered ability, and girl in a bob-cut actually moved a building on the other side of the street a little bit to not have a sun in the eyes during breakfast.
Also, there was a terrifying threat of Accelerator punishing them and the fact that somehow, Kamijou was able to interfere with her psychokinesis.
"Hmm... let's play rock, paper, scissors. If I win, you tell me what's on your mind"
"Alright..."
"Jan, ken, pon!"
Touma looked dumbly at the rock that Naru was displaying against his scissors.
"Why?"
"Mwahahaha! You fool of a boss! You thought that just because I am all about paper, I will show one now? Everyone thinks that and instinctively tends to use scissors, so I just have to show a rock. Now, spill it out!
'This girl...'
So Touma told Naru all about the absurd dating situation.
"Pffft..."
She failed to contain herself and started to laugh, tears flowing from her eyes. She only paused to burst out in louder laughter the next moment.
Itsuki arrived at the scene, looking at Touma with confusion
"Why is Naru barely staying upright and laughs like a hyena high on laughing gas?"
"He is... and his girlfriend's... I can't..."
Touma sighed and repeated the explanation.
"Gh... hihi... pfff..."
The chemist tried to elegantly giggle into her palm, but she too was nearly folding in half from amusement.
'Adorable...' Touma thought, before getting himself to look away from giggling Yakumaru.
'How the hell am I supposed to tell-'
"Oi, what is going on?" Seike's head popped over the doorframe. Upon seeing him, Naru and Yakumaru laughed even harder. Touma put his hands together and addressed the feminine boy.
"Seike-san... there is something you need to know. Just... be ready for a huge shock..."
(FEW DAYS LATER)
"So what happened later?" asked Izumi Rita, as she and Touma walked through the street.
"Seike-san got mad. He thought I was making fun of him. So I contacted Thor and asked him to come to the Seventh Mist, while taking Seike with me. It got resolved when they both went to the bathroom... believe me, I didn't hear screams that loud in a very long time."
"Hmm... so what became of it?"
"I don't know. They were a bit weirded out, but they are still in touch. I guess they may be bros if there was never girlfriend in the first place.
They continued to move forward in silence, became the small redhead coughed loudly.
"Ekhm... listen, I know this is rather awkward accommodation, given who we are... but I am honourable enough to thank you. If not for you, we would be incarcerated or worse. And now, besides working after school 3 days a week, we are almost free and have a place to stay. I heard that you shielded us from Accelerator's wrath. Why?"
"Why wouldn't I? You deserved to start your life anew after Handcuffs. Besides, I know it pisses you off now, but you really remind me of my teacher"
"Again with that... why am I even going to your school? I am in middle-school, you are in high-school, it doesn't make sense"
"Beats me. I guess there is some reason we are not seeing yet"
"What school are you even going to?"
"Certain High School..." Touma answered, moving forward, until he realized that the younger girl wasn't by his side anymore and instead stood motionless few steps away. If she was relatively relaxed before, now she looked stubbornly defiant.
"What is it?"
"I can't go there. No, I will go anywhere, but not to that school"
"But why? We are almost there"
"That's just the problem! I can't be seen. If she finds me here, I'll..."
"Izumi-chan?"
Third voice from behind them joined the conversation. Touma knew that voice.
He turned around to notice absolutely shocked Tsukuyomi Komoe, who apparently just appeared from around the corner. The small stack of books dropped down to the pavement from her small hands.
"Izumi-chan?! It's you, isn't it?!" Komoe cried out, dashing forward to the similarly small (but noticeably younger) girl.
Izumi's face turned into a combination of panic and disgust. She tried to dodge the hug, but the effort was fruitless, as Komoe tackled her to the ground.
"Where have you been?! I almost lost hope that I see you again."
"Ugh, get off! You can still pretend you didn't. LET ME GO!"
"Kamijou-chan, did you find her? Thank you so much, sensei is so glad!"
"Ehm... can someone explain to me what is going on?" Touma asked, as Rita tried her best to pry Komoe off. "Do you know her, Komoe-sensei?"
The pinkette blinked in confusion, before smiling.
"Know her? Of course I do. After all, Rita-chan is my niece"
Touma's mouth opened numbly.
"NIECE?!"
He knew Komoe was much older than she looked, but the idea of someone 135 cm tall and looking like 10 year old having a relative generation younger was... well, quite something.
That explained the shockingly striking similarity that led to Touma mistaking them for one another in the dark of the alley when he first met Rita.
"She got to Academy City more or less few months after I arrived here. Her parents wanted for me to look out for her, but... she ran away after few months. Even with combined efforts of myself and Anti-Skill, I couldn't find anything except occasional sightings... but now... wah?!"
Komoe cried out as fell down, Rita finally managing to free herself. She looked at surprised Komoe with contempt and spoke with venomous hate Touma never heard from her in nearly a week that passed since they met each other.
"NOTHING CHANGED, stupid aunt. Listen here and listen closely: I don't have a connection to you anymore. In fact, I have a group of close friends that actually care about my cause and myself. You were worried about me when you were the one who caused me to run away? Good joke! I am not fucking going back. To you or to any god damn teacher in the city. You can all die in a ditch for all I care. Don't suppose that time that passed made me forget that time. Time when you were supposed to be there for me. And what you did? WHAT THE HELL YOU DID?! You abandoned me! You didn't know shit about what was happening to me, how much I suffered because of this sick system!"
"Izumi-chan... I... I told you that..."
"I am through with you! And don't you dare make those puppy eyes, they don't work on me. As I said, forget this unfortunate meeting. I will be on my way, oh honourable Tsukuyomi sensei, so you go on yours. I bet you are very busy. Farewell!"
"Iizumi-san, wait..."Touma tried to protest, but Leader glared at him.
"This is a family matter, don't butt in. Thanks for everything you tried to do, but... I can't. I will accept my punishment for this, but I can't be in the same place as she is. It's just... sickening."
And then she took off running.
Touma clenched his fist.
"Hey, that's going too far! Come-"
"Kamijou-chan..." Komoe tugged on his uniform, and shook her head" I appreciate it, but... you know how to find her, right? Then leave her. I am afraid... she has every right to hate me."
"Sensei... I can't imagine anyone actually hating you. You are a wonderful teacher, sometimes more amazing than our school deserves"
Komoe blushed bashfully at that and gave Touma warm smile
"I am very happy you feel this way. But... we all make mistakes, Kamijou-chan. I am in this city for many years now, but the first year was a nightmare for me. You know, my growth stopped when I entered my early teens... and I can't count the amount of times I was bullied, ridiculed or discriminated against because of that. I had supportive parents and dream of becoming a teacher in mind. It helped me slowly march through it. But people always took time to actually take me seriously, even if they knew how old I actually was. I got used to the people trying to hide their smirks of disbelief. It was at its peak when I was attending university. Because of this, from upper elementary to university, through my teenage years, I had virtually no friends to speak of. When I came to Academy City, I hoped it will get better... and it did, but this too took time. During first year, I had to prove myself over and over again, try many times as hard as other researchers just for my ideas to be considered. Although I put a brave face, it put a strain on my mental health. Fortunately I met two wonderful people in that time, that helped me through it, even if indirectly. Yomikawa-sensei, who was on the same course as me when we came to this city and who was the only one reached out to me and wanted to become my friend. And also... you, Kamijou-chan. Do you remember when we first met? My car was being fixed and I was walking home from the train, carrying an enormous pile of books. It was a windy evening, it was starting to rain. During one of the stronger gusts, I lost balance and all of my materials fell to the ground. As I was trying to gather them, I saw a boy with a spiky hair...
"Oh no... my pyrokinesis case studies... they can't get damaged or my boss will kill me..."
As younger Tsukuyomi Komoe tried desperately to save her work from the cold rain, the spiky haired boy of elementary school age came to her side, spreading umbrella above them.
"Everything alright? Here, I will help you with this."
"Huh? T-Thank you..."
They quickly gathered the materials and stood up.
"I appreciate your help. What's your name?"
"Kamijou, Kamijou Touma."
"I am Tsukuyomi Komoe, Kamijou-san. What are you doing out in the storm?"
"My door lock... got broken. Just a bit of Kamijou-san's misfortune for you. And the reception is not good in the storm, so I ventured out to get some help in fixing it, before I saw you"
"That's not good. Students should not be out in such weather"
"Well, but I had to... wait... you are saying students... as if you are not student yourself?"
Komoe took a deep breath.
"Well, I am actually a teacher. One still completing the final certifications, but teacher nonetheless..."
Touma blinked in confusion.
"Teacher..."
"That's right"
"That's... that's so amazing!"
Komoe, preparing mentally for the usual, cynical reaction, was completely blown away.
"Huh?"
"I mean, if you really are a teacher, then you had to work really hard. It probably wasn't easy to get to that if you look so small. So yeah, it's amazing. You look like a nice person, so I hope you will get what you wish for."
Komoe stared in awe at that spiky haired boy.
A feeling of profound gratitude bloomed in her heart, as she spoke with a slight tremble in her voice.
"Why... why did you not question it?"
"I don't know but... your eyes. They look more serious and smart, compared to many people my age. Even if you look like them, it's like... there is someone else looking through your body. Do I sound stupid? Maybe I am imagining things or something..."
In that moment, Kamijou Touma, through open mind and intuition, truly saw Tsukuyomi Komoe. Not just her body, but the real her, much older than her external look. No one except her family and one other person ever saw it before.
Komoe was so deeply touched, that she lost track of how many seconds she stared onto that perceptive young student.
Her chilled body brought her to reality though.
"Ah...achoo!"
As Touma saw Tsukuyomi Komoe sneeze multiple times, he reacted quickly.
"Oh no! Here..."
Touma took off his coat and put it on the small woman. Even in few years there would be great difference in size of their clothing, but back then, it was only slightly too long.
"I can't possibly take this..." Komoe mumbled, blushing slightly.
"I can't have you catching a cold, sensei. My apartment is closed for a time being, so can we go to your place? Sorry to impose..."
"N-No, be my guest, in fact it's quite nearby...let's hurry then..."
Touma was actually very sad that he had no recollection of that memory.
"I was so happy that there was a student like this in the city. I met you couple times later on, albeit briefly. Imagine my surprise when I was assigned to you as your teacher, ehehehe...
But as for Rita-chan... during that early period, she used to stay at my place. The things she said... to an extent are true. I was so tired and frustrated with my own difficulties that while I made sure she was fed and had other basic accomodations, I didn't have mental capacity to truly listen to her problems. And problems appeared. Apparently, teacher at her school not only didn't interfere with other children bullying Rita, but mocked her as well. I only learned it after my niece disappeared. One day, she didn't return home. And no amount of searching could find her. I knew she was alive because she was sighted in a few locations, reportedly with a criminal group too... but I can't complain when it comes to her. As I said, she has every life to hate me."
"But sensei, you had it rough in that time too, she goes too f-"
"Kamijou-chan, I am, and back then I was also, an adult. My own problems do not justify my carelessness that ultimately transformed my own niece into young woman filled with resentment. Adults should not pose problems to younger generation, at least ideally speaking. Albeit indirectly, I abandoned her for that time, and she assumed that I prioritized my academic career and students over my own niece's well-being, neglecting her. I take that her hate for teachers stems from that, combined with awful things her original educator did to her
Only after she left did I realize what happened, and I felt so awfully bad... maybe that was one of the reason why I always liked to bring someone home. To fill that empty place... Shokuhou-chan, Himegami-chan, Awaki-chan, to name only them... I was just... so sorry that I couldn't fix this..."
Touma listened to his teacher's story before sighing, rising up, and clenching his fist.
"Then it seems it is clear of what she and I should do here"
"Kamijou-chan?"
"I am going to bring you two back together"
"You will? But how?"
"I know now that you made a mistake and acted wrongly sensei. But Iizumi-san should still give you a chance. People do change! You wouldn't do the same thing again, right? You can apologize to her, but you shouldn't be completely turned away. Family is important, and that's why I will help you reunite. Even if I don't how yet"
Komoe was stunned for a few seconds, before smiling warmly.
"Taking such task sounds just like you and I bet I won't be able to deter you from it. But don't let it disturb your school duties. It's already 6 minutes after the bell."
"How did you... oh, right, internal clock"
"And you are still to come to our remedy classes."
"Fukou da..." Touma sighed, as his small teacher giggled, her spirits renewed.
(CERTAIN MAGICIAN'S INTERMISSION)
The woman in beige habit smiled while taking a sip of tea. Her companion, a labrador known as Kihara Noukan, sipped brandy from dog bowl.
"Don't you find it ironic?"
"What exactly, Aleister?"
"In the end, this city may be a reflection of my own heaven on earth, albeit in different way that the original means that I intended."
"How so?"
The woman made few motions with her fingers. Something similar to bright sparks painted intersecting lines on the surface of the table. It was a seven-pointed star. And with each sentence, a flickering like hologram created by Aleister's magic came to rest on one arm of the star.
"Accelerator, the monster born from blood and raised in disregard for any life changed his ways, as he individually brought himself and other members of the darkness to face justice, as he confronted his own flaws to stand by the side of ones he cherished..."
"Kakine Teitoku, the tyrant and sociopath, found willingness to change, restraining his ambitions and arrogance by practicing humility, and found newfound peace in practice of temperance..."
"Misaka Mikoto, the poster child oblivious to true meaning of darkness, became a star for many, and reached out to countless hearts, giving inspiration and promise of hope for the better future..."
"Mugino Shizuri, the heartless psychopath, found it in herself to discipline and control herself through prudence, to remain with the ones she dared to cherish as friends and loved one, to dissuade herself from the way of fury"
"Shokuhou Misaki, the detached, mistrustful loner, embraced true love, that forever changed her heart and endured despite faulty limitations of time and memory, giving birth to most sublime of feelings..."
"Aihana Etsu, the mysterious puppetmaster, relying on others and manipulating from the shadows, lending countless people their name and transforming them into their ideal selves, through the faith in the identity that had no actual face it could be fixed to..."
"Sogiita Gunha, the relentless pursuer of ideal fight, confronting danger with free spirit, diligent heart, unwavering courage, and fortitude to confront pain and danger with valorous bravery in his life"
On each of the 7 points was a familiar face of a level 5 esper. Noukan looked at Aleister in disbelief.
"I am not well versed in those matters. But... prudence, justice, temperance, fortitude, faith, hope, and love... aren't those..."
"Seven virtues of heaven. According to laws of Kybalion, correspondence between planes of existence occurs constantly. 'As above, so below; as below, so above.". When you embed a symbol into reality like this, the meaning comes naturally over time and makes itself known as if it was there always"
"So... Academy City could be the heaven on earth... with those 7 as the catalysts, would you rewrite the christian rules that you so detested and changed them into your own heavenly system?"
"There is a bit of truth in that. A flawed plan like all the others, but a try nonetheless"
"But did you really predict that they will at the very least try to overcome their sins? Did you really plan that far?"
"Who do you think you are talking to? As a matter of principle, it wasn't fully successful plan, but it still elevated them to new height. Just like 7 sins, 7 virtues are powerful symbol. They are said to create holiness. Together, they make man who understands will of heaven itself... but in themselves, they can't come together." Aleister explained, as respective mirage-like photos lit up under his touch" No matter how justly will Accelerator act, how temperate will Dark Matter's new personality be, how much hope will Railgun bring to her companions and bretheren, how prudent and reasonable Meltdowner might be, how deep and blissful might be the love that Mental Out learned to feel, how far can Aihana Etsu go on his lent identities, how of valorous warrior Number Seven might seem... they can't achieve the wholeness without one additional element... the virtues themselves will not achieve humanity without..."
Centerpiece of the star, between 7 arms, was the image of Kamijou Touma.
"... an equanimous kindness. The one that reaches the extremis and remains a constant in a changing world. Actions without witness and without reward, done from the feeling, not material desire. This is what brings true humanity to any virtue and what allows true salvation of everyone around. The light born from experiencing darkness and loneliness, from obstacles I piled up in front of that boy. The strongest light, birthed in the deepest darkness."
The two were silent for a moment, before Aleister sighed.
"Well, wine here is certainly like heaven. Let's get wasted."
"Aleister, do restrain yourself..."
"What's the point of being retired then?!"
PART 2: THE ANTHOLOGY'S FIRST COLLECTION
I. NIGHTTIME STORY
"Dad! Mom!"
Touma slowly woke up in an ornamented bedroom, blearily differentiating the silhouettes of furniture illuminated by the pale glow of moonlight.
He was laying in a big bed with a canopy from imported ebony and golden leaves. Next to him, there was a naked form of a woman pressed to his side, with black hair spreading out like a cloak of darkness, contrasting with light, flawless skin.
He tried to delicately slip away, but the woman firmly held him in place.
"Mhmmmm... don't leave me..."
Kongou Mitsuko made him fell back to the bed, as she kissed him, entangling him in the sheets.
"Mitsu..."
The half-awake woman was far too preoccupied with bombarding Touma with kisses to register what was happening, until Touma stopped her by cupping her cheeks into his hands, which caused her eyes to open, with amusingly puckered lips.
"Good morning darling... do you actually wish to continue where we left off before falling asleep?"
Even if they were close to one another for years, Mitsuko never failed to blush when she conveyed intimate proposition.
Touma had to force himself very hard to not agree and indeed continue their rather intense pre-bedtime activities.
"Mitsuko... actually it's still night time... and it's the kids. I think they need me"
"Oh, is that so?" raven haired beauty yawned and stretched, before rising up" You should sleep, darling, I will go to them."
"No, I will go, you have a conference tomorrow" Touma protested,
"Nonsense, don't talk as if you are not busy yourself" airline magnate sighed and smiled at him." You know, what since we're both up, let's go together, shall we?"
She grasped his hand and looked at him expectantly.
"You're waiting for something?"
"But of course"
"You grew a little bit spoiled, don't you?"
"Hmm, after all, I am a noble lady, and you are supposed to be a commoner" Mitsuko said playfully.
Touma smiled back
"Alright..."
But to Mitsuko's surprise, Touma didn't kiss her on the forehead, in the name of the little tradition they had when getting out of bed, but swiftly and flawlessly stole a few seconds long kiss on the lips.
After they separated, Mitsuko touched her lips with a small blush, concealed by the shadows.
"You cheated"
"Consider it a payback for all the princess carries to the bedroom."
"Quiet, you"
(MINUTE LATER)
"So, you had a bad dream?" Mitsuko smiled at Miya, as she and Touma sat down in the twins bedroom.
"Mhm..." the girl nodded with small traces of tears still on her face.
"I told her not to worry" spoke Tomoya, Miya's older brother, from the bed on the other side of the room "There is no way something could happen with mom and dad here"
"What a good brother you are, Tomo."
Touma looked at both of his children with only daughter of Kongou family. For some reason, both his and Kongou's friends, including notably Wannai and Awatsuki, discussed to which parent were the twins more similar to. It was not an easy question. Both Miya and Tomoya inherited her mother's silky black hair and eyebrows resembling smudges of calligraphy brush, but face shapes and eyes were definitely spitting image of Touma. Even if Miya were emulating her mother in many respects, people often pointed out how similar she was to Touma's mannierism. And conversely, even though Tomoya was close with Touma, he had that stately grace of high class that characterized Mitsuko.
Not that it really mattered to Touma. For him, they were simply two brilliant kids of his.
"Can you tell me a story, mom?" asked Miya expectantly.
"Hmm, what kind of story?"
"Maybe something fantastical..."
"Please no" Tomoya sighed in exasperation" It's always fairy tale setting"
"Onii-chan, you don't have taste at all!"
"I let you chose last 3 times. It always the story about how mom first met dad"
"Because..." Miya clasped her hands together" It's so romantic"
"Isn't it?" Mitsuko ruffled her daughter's hair, while father and son deadpanned at that.
'Well, it would be...' Touma thought ' if it was in some realistic convention. Last time I was a knight, Imaigne Breaker was a shield, Mitsuko was a princess, and Mugino was downgraded to the dragon shooting lasers instead of breathing fire'
"Alright, then how about this. Did we tell you a story about how me and your father got married?"
Both twins shook their heads.
"Well, me and your father became close over the years, dating for quite some time. As I graduated from the college and was about to inherit the company, I was happy with planning my future, and of course, I only pictured it with my darling by my side. Everything was splendid. My modeling career was going splendid, I wielded a powerful esper ability, and I found true love. Your father, despite his misadventures, proven time and time again that he is a valiant gentleman, a true companion befitting a lady, in his own, unorthodox way. But even when my mother approved, my father, and your grandfather, was not convinced. He respected Touma on a personal level, but insisted for me to marry one of the sons of families invested in transport industry, which would expand the share of our company. But when I was still in love with Touma, he still tried to arrange my marriage and became angry at me for not taking company interest seriously."
"Wait... are you saying that you were forced to choose between company and love?"
"Don't tell me you choose false arrangement, mom!"
"I... I am truly ashamed that I did. Back then, I panicked and didn't even dream of defying my father, I never did that before. My father believed that what he was doing was for my own good, as he and my mother met through the connections of business. Well, the only difference was that they actually fell in love, while I felt nothing for my arranged marriage partner. I didn't have a strength to truly rebel, so I grew distant to your dad and aunts."
She looked at Touma, who resumed the story
"Fortunately, Kinuho and Maaya were really smart and observant back then. They realized what was going on and begged me to intervene. They didn't actually have to convince me for a long time, because I too was suspicious of the way my contact with Mitsuko suddenly got severed. So three of us, that is, me, and your aunts, rented a plane and flew to location that we suspected held the ceremony. It took a while, because we almost crash landed, but after some adventures along the way, we arrived at the scene of that arranged wedding. If I am not mistaken, we have a footage from this"
"M-Maybe let's not show this. Looking back it was rather embarrassing."
"Too bad, I have screenshots on my phone anyway!" Touma smiled, searching for correct photos and showing them to the twins.
"Kyah! Mom looked so pretty in that wedding dress."
"And her look when she saw dad was so beautiful. Did you do the 'I object' thing, dad?"
"Something along those lines. Your mom started running to me, before tripping in the middle of the temple..."
"T-Try running in those boots. They were made for majestic, slow strolls!"
... and so I took her in a... well, bridal style, and fled. Kinuho and Maaya provided enough distraction for us to flee and in the meantime, Mitsuko got a little bit... overexcited."
"I did not!"
"You slapped a limo into stratosphere. And a buffet too!"
"Okay, maybe a little. For the first time, I was actually rebellious and it was just... amazing"
"So what happened next?"
"We sort of went into hiding. I asked few of my friends to help conceal us. We travelled from place to place, until founding ourselves in Hawaii. I knew a hotel there..."
"The one that aunt Leivinia and aunt Mikoto were talking about? Where the president showed up and you tried to stop the volcano?"
"That's the one"
"It took some time..." added Mitsuko" but with my mom's convincing, his anger cooling down, and few other factors, my dad accepted Touma, even praising his guts for stealing me, as he called it. We got a quiet, private wedding before organizing celebration months later. Also, the reason my father was convinced could be that I was overpowered by overwhelming gratitude for your father and... things happened"
"What things?"
"Various... ekhm... things. The most of which you are too young to hear" the mother of the family twirled her hair between two fingers, with a small, sly smirk on her face "We were definitely occupied... and it was more beautiful that I ever imagined."
'You tell me' Touma thought' in the morning you were asleep with a smile on your face and I kept thinking: 'I just slept with one of the richest and most popular women in Japan'. Me and that sentence should not even match'
"So... you made us?"
"EKHM! T-That's quite enough of this for now. How about one more story and then you try getting some sleep"
It took some time but the twins finally fell asleep.
"You want to watch a movie? We both now those memories made us more awake than ever."
"Sure, why not. I am choosing the movie though"
And so, Touma and Mitsuko settled on a couch in a mansion's living room and played a thriller that one of their friends recommended.
After watching half an hour, movie bored them and soon enough, the pair found themselves more interested in one another.
"We shouldn't do it here..." Mitsuko whispered, as Touma blinked in confusion.
"I only wanted to kiss and cuddle, prevy ojou-sama. Are all Tokiwadai students actually hidden perverts?"
Mitsuko pressed her wide forehead to Touma's own and smiled.
"You know what actually was the most surprising thing in all of this? In falling in love?"
"Hmm?"
"I always imagined that when I fall in love, it would be with a rich prince charming that would fulfil my every desire. But... ever since I met you, ever since I genuinely started to understand love, I realized that I wanted to give you more than take when it came to you. That even without my insistence, you gave me more than I could. I wouldn't change anything in that"
"Is that so? So this old Kamijou was of some use for that magnificent ojou-sama? I say that the road could be bumpy, considering that Ekaterina tried to strangle me at least three times."
"She only did so to get to know you, she never intended to digest you, I would know if she did"
"Great, broken ribs instead of being killed... that snake was a total yandere for you"
"Darling, maybe we should get children their own snakes?"
"Not a chance, they are still not old enough. I can totally see Tomoya getting swallowed because he got too cocky"
"Mou, it's all the matter of proper behavioural therapy. You are such a stubborn commoner... but then again, you are my commoner"
She kissed Touma lightly on the lips, before resting her head on his shoulder.
Although their minds and attraction had other plans, they finally fell asleep, covered in blanket, and with heads resting close to each other, until they were woke up by the rays of morning sun 3 hours later.
II. GOLDEN BLOOD
Parvati Kamijou should be dead. She didn't have any doubt. After all, one should not simply be okay after getting hit by a truck.
It happened when she was visiting the city. Just like with other members of her generation in Kamijou family, they shared a father but different in mothers. In Parvati's case, her mother was Sozty Exica, who was a part time professor of Indology in Tokyo University, part time magician affiliated with Necessarius. Upon Parvati's birth, Sozty and Kamijou Touma, Parvati's father, decided that Parvati will travel with Sozty on her many journey's, required by both magical and everyday side of her life, but they will regularly visit Academy City as well.
Parvati grew up to be a curious, free-spirited, and selfless girl. She read a lot and aided her mother in her studies. With that willingness to help, Sozty was only half-surprised when her daughter exclaimed proudly, that she dreams of becoming the hero of justice. It was probably not without a difference who her dad was. Among Touma's many children, Parvati was not alone in the admiration of his heroic actions.
Even though both Sozty was initially worried that because of their travels Parvati won't fit in with her siblings, everyone was always extremely welcoming and Parvati was never alone when she spent time with her dad. Her brothers and sisters always made sure to do something fun when she arrived.
Parvati loved all of her siblings, but she got particularly close to Seika, daughter of a military commander Shutaura Sequenzia, and Angelo, son of religious leader Agnese Sanctis, as well as quartet of children of New Light: Aoife and Tannia, her older half-sisters, as well as Etain and Rhain, younger than Parvati. The reason for this sympathy was probably because all of them lived abroad and could sympathize with Parvati's situation. Speaking of abroad, Parvati was also half-sister of royal children of UK, Leonard and Kira Windsor-Kamijou, but she sometimes felt shy when it came to contact with this part of the family.
It was a day, just like every other, when Parvati visited Academy City. After school, she was fetched by Seika, who synchronized her visit to the city to meet with her specifically, as well as Chousuke, son of aunt Youen. The boy with a hair in samurai knot was an introvert and preferred staying indoors, so Parvati was all the more happy to see him. Chousuke was apparently on the way to a research lab, but wanted to walk with his sisters before he had to go to his duties.
Seika told others a lot about her mother... or rather, her mothers. All children of Touma knew the story of Endymion, and the story revolving around Shutaura Sequenzia and Arisa Meigo. However, not even Seika knew how exactly Touma reunited with fusion of Shutaura and Arisa. Out of all partners of Kamijou Touma, this history was certainly filled with great amount of mystery. That being said, Shutaura herself was frequent companion of Touma, as she often accompanied him on his endeavours as a self-appointed bodyguard.
Kamijou Touma, besides being a househusband of sorts, worked as a freelancing private detective. It was a joint idea of Shirai Kuroko and Misaka Mikoto, who assessed that "if Touma was going to risk his life anyway, might as well profit from it a little" and that "this way he could at least be legally recognizable and count on quick support of Anti-Skill". Basically nothing changed in his line of action besides that.
Even though this new entity called herself Shutaura for administrative reasons, that woman was a balance and blend between two people joined together, creating a completely original individual who at the same time retained personalities and memories of its respective counterparts. Even though through majority of time those personalities were balanced, from time to time, usually in the times of distress or new situations, they differentiated each other, changing Shutaura's speech, or habits. Seika was accustomed to her mother's duality, but to other people, it came as a major surprise.
Touma treated the new Shutaura with respect and attention whenever they met, being aware of her specific mental situation. As far as Seika could tell, her mothers were deeply in love, if frequency of Shutaura mentioning Touma, as well as particularly good mood of both personalities after exiting bedroom in the morning were any indications.
Seika loved her mom as a whole and honestly wouldn't trade her for anyone else, even if Shutaura tended to be very strict. However, she was also very protective and supportive, even though her selves were split on how to specifically raise Seika, or what to leave to Touma.
It was when Seika was telling her siblings about latest song she wrote, when the tragedy struck.
The truck came out of nowhere, despite it being green for the pedestrians. With the driver seemingly losing control of it, the vehicle was heading straight towards Seika.
Or at least until Parvati managed to push her older sister away.
With a sickening sound, the body of the brown skinned girl was sent flying and crashed into the street few meters further, which was followed by the screams from both Seika and Chousuke.
(LATER)
Kamijou Touma arrived to the hospital, accompanied by two women.
First, dressed in a tight jeans and light T-shirt was Sozty, who immediately ran to see her daughter. The other, wearing her civilian clothing, consisting of black T-shirt with red underline and khaki trousers, was Shutaura Sequenzia, who leaned over Seika
"Are you hurt?"
"N-No... but 'Vati-chan..."
"Honestly, how much of an airhead are you?! Why couldn't you avoid it?! This is not what I trained you for!"
"I am... sorry, mom..."
Shutaura's stern gaze softened a little bit, as she put hand on her daughter's head
"I was worried, you know..." almost unnoticeably, a tone of her voice shifted slightly" Please, be more careful in the future"
Touma walked over to Chousuke.
"Son? Hey, can you tell me what happened? That would be very helpful"
Chosuke slowly nodded and spoke
"We were crossing the street when the truck appeared. The driver said that he accidentally stepped on accelerator instead of the breaks and lost control over the vehicle. We had no time to fully avoid it and Seika would take the hit but Parvati pushed her away in the last moment before taking the hit herself. She was sent flying, and at the same time, the truck crashed into the lamppost. I wanted to perform some medical aid, just like mom taught me to... but... the thing is..."
"Touma!" sounded the voice of Sozty.
As they turned around, the hindu magician looked at them with tears in her eyes.
By her side was Parvati, standing and looking at them with curiosity.
"Sis?" Chousuke rubbed his eyes, before turning to Touma" Dad, do you see it too?"
"Parvati!" Touma ran forward and grabbed the girl by the shoulders" Are you okay... no... how are you okay?"
"I am fine, dad. A little sleepy and very hungry, and world is a little blurry... but it's okay. What do you mean how? I simply got up..."
"No, you don't understand" Chousuke said, mirroring Touma's shocked expression" I have basic medical knowledge. You had fractured bones, multiple cuts, possibly internal bleeding... yet there is no wound. No wound at all"
Shutaura also closed in on the girl and examined her closely.
"Miss Shutatura?" asked Sozty" is it really that important? She is alive!"
"Yes, yes, of course..." Shutaura squinted her eyes, examining the flawless tissue " I have plenty of experience with miracles, but this is truly strange..."
"That's no miracle, Shutaura-san" spoke the elderly voice behind their back." that's an esper power"
Although he was incredibly wrinkly, lost almost entirety of his hair, and he slightly hunched his back a bit, Heaven Canceller still enjoyed relatively good health and unclouded intelligence.
"Follow me, miss Sozty, Kamijou-san. I will explain everything"
(IN THE HC'S OFFICE)
"Gemstone ability?" Touma asked in shock.
"Yes, an innate esper power. They manifest randomly and people can use them since birth. It's no surprise that in family such as yours there is at least one Gemstone."
"Yes, but... how come we never noticed?" Sozty looked at Parvati, who was joyously enjoying protein bar from the vending machine.
"Usually people look for the obvious manifestations of power. But... did you ever see Parvati-chan injured?"
Both parents opened their mouths, and then closed them again.
"No... I don't think so"
"Listen" Heaven Canceller pointed out at some charts displayed at the desk" your daughter has the Gemstone ability that is closely connected to the physical characteristic of extreme rare kind. I am not sure if the blood itself changed in response to AIM field, but..."
"Get to the point, doc. What is going on with Parvati?"
"Parvati-chan..." the old doctor called to the girl " Be a good girl and come here. Don't worry, it will only hurt for a moment..."
As the girl came to his side, he took out a scalpel and with a quick cut, slit the fragment of her arm with a scalpel.
"What do you think you are-" Sotzy rose from the chair, but Touma stopped her.
"Wait..."
After 10 seconds or so, he saw it. The edges of the cut were closing in on each other. Then they connected, with the wound turning into red smudge, then into pale white line... before completely disappeared, leaving only light-brown skin.
"Well, your daughter's ability is powerful, but also has certain dangerous limitations. This ability, dubbed Golden Blood, is closely related to Auto-Rebirth, but even more potent. It allows the body of the user to regenerate and repair bodily tissue on genetic level, leading to very fast healing of physical traumas, as well as the nullification of diseases and poisonous substances. And that's only one way to use it. On its own, and for the user himself, it's very powerful. I imagine that without limitations, only decapitation would be the way to kill the person using it. But... as I said, there are certain limitations. This ability works through the medium of a very rare, mutated blood. We are talking about a Bombay variant."
Sozty looked at the doctor unsurely. He smiled slightly
"The ethnic background of you and your daughter is coincidental in this case.. Now, for a little bit of a biochemistry. You are probably heard of blood groups and the AB0 system. The main blood types in humans are A, B, AB, and 0. Each of them has antigens, antibodies, one or the other, or both. A type has A antigens and anti B antibodies. B type has the opposite parameters. AB type has both antigens, no antibodies. 0 type has no antigens, but both antibodies. In transfusions it is important that the recipient's antibodies do not attack the donor's antigens. Therefore, groups AB and 0 are universal recipients and donors, respectively. But getting to the point, the other classification is Rh+ and Rh-. Although the system has different antigens and antibodies, the basic idea applies here as well. Normally, blood must have antigens or antibodies. But there is a blood type that does not produce a certain factor needed to create them. It's a blood type with naked cells... Rh null."
"And Parvati-chan has this blood type?"
"It is the rarest type in the world... also known as the Bombay variant because it is most common in the Indian subcontinent. But sometimes, very rarely, mutations can occur... Parvati-chan has a blood chemistry that, combined with the influence of AIM field from her brain, allows her to regenerate and repair her body incredibly fast. Tissue regeneration rate is remarkable... this healing ability can in theory close any wound, repair every organ, destroy every disease, restore sizeable portion of the body, maybe even prolong life. Also... and this is quite ironic... Rh-null is called "golden blood", hence the name of the ability, but Parvati-chan's blood ... it's actually golden contact with oxygen."
He took a small vial from the table. The liquid inside was orange-gold in colour.
"It's blood from her arteries. Her blood is normal while inside of the body, but turns to this colour while exposed to the air. It also slowly oxidizes and evaporates on contact with the air. However, if you put it into another body, this ability will temporarily heal another person. Parvati-chan is a walking panaceum. But it is both a gift... and a curse."
"Because everyone will want her blood?"
"Possibly, though I doubt they'd be able to replicate that effect. It is the combination of the Bombay variant, and the supernatural power of Parvati-chan that gives this healing effect. The extracted blood actually loses its properties either after 10 minutes of exposure to air, or when it is taken far away from the source, since it is linked to AIM field. No, the real danger lies elsewhere. On the one hand, because Rh-null has no antibodies, it will never attack the recipient's blood. This blood can be universally taken by anyone, which means that Parvati-chan is able to heal anyone she chooses. If there are no antibodies, there is no attack on the new cells. But on the other hand... what happens when there are no antigens?"
Sozty grasped Touma's hand, who started to understand, as the Heaven Canceller concluded
"One who has Rh-null can only receive it from another person with Rh-null type... and there are only a few dozens in the entire world. The chance that the hospital knows about such a rare blood type is small. Therefore, most accidents that are only dangerous for ordinary humans are fatal for people with Rh-null. If she loses too much... that's it, no coming back, certain death. I can get the blood here, but it takes time."
" But... you said it yourself, Parvati has self-healing abilities! She'll regenerate before she loses too much blood."
"Possibly, but it may as well be a gamble. Her blood causes her cells to divide and differentiate with great speed. But that takes energy. Very little is needed for shallow wounds. At deeper levels, the energy escapes as steam. But if she has to heal too many times, takes too much damage in a short period of time, or if she's weakened for some reason... regeneration will slow down at best, stop completely at worst. Therefore, she must eat well, sleep well and take care of her body. Consumption of sugar and proteins should support its potency. I would also suggest donating the blood for her own use, just in case, and avoiding damaging the tissue in the way that may cause major blood loss"
(LATER)
"What happens now?" Touma asked Sozty, who shurgged with a smile.
"We will do what the doctor ordered. She will donate blood for her own potential usage and try to keep herself safe. Though I think there is only so much of a capacity in which we can protect her.
"Why do you say that?"
"Because, for what it's worth, she is just like you, my selfless hero"
(YEARS LATER)
The burning building was close to collapsing. The fire brigade recoiled from the explosion inside of the building.
"Is everyone out?"
"My...my parents! There are still inside!" shouted a small girl.
Meanwhile, in the blazing inferno, man and a woman was trying to escape. The flames were about to consume them and it seemed completely hopeless. But then...
"Follow me!"
Someone grabbed them by the arms, and pulled through the labyrinth of burning rooms, until finally showing them the window.
"It's not high up. Jump!"
"But-"
"Jump, now!"
And with surge of adrenaline, the couple managed to jump through the window.
The mysterious helper smiled.
Then, explosion shook the entire building. And the burning roof caved in.
"No!" the wife screamed as their saviour was seemingly buried inside.
But, after few minutes, a silhouette emerged from the flames.
"Thank god, you are..." the man started to speak, before he and his wife saw the silhouette well.
"Kh... haaaayhhhh..."
They screamed.
The creature was covered in 3rd degree burns and turned into a walking, charred remnant of a person, with only eyes visible.
It leaned over the wall.
"Kah...aaaaaaaah... gyahhhh...gaoooaaaahhhhh!"
With each scream of pain, the charred skin on the burnt body began to change colour, going from black to red, and then, slowly, as the burns disappeared, to brown. Finally, as the hair appeared again, the terrified couple looked at young indian girl, practically naked, panting against the wall.
"Are you... alright?"
"You just..."
"Yeah. I did."
"What... who are you?"
"I..." the girl smiled slightly" am just a normal high school girl, who wanted to help people in need"
Her heroic pose broke when she looked around.
"That being said... do you have some clothes? And something to eat? I am very hungry"
III. ADOPTION
Tenma was always an odd one out. One would assume that in orphanage, where everyone tended to be recluses for one reason or another, it wouldn't be all that much of a problem.
He would be wrong, as it still posed a problem for the boy.
Tenma could be best described as the 'adventurous soul with wild imagination', with straightforward honesty and open mind as defining traits.
If only others could see those qualities before their harsh judgement...
When he was 8 years old, Tenma's parents and little sister were killed in an unexpected landslide while they were on a top the mountains. Although Tenma was swept by waves of mud and rocks, in consequence having three limbs and ribcage broken, he survived by managing to grab to thick branch of an old, sturdy tree, despite those injuries. However, when the rescue team found him, barely hanging to life, it turned out that loss of his family and broken bones were not the only sacrifices the boy gained from the accident.
The sharp fragments of the debris cut across his face, and his left eye was in such a state that the removal was the only option. Because of that, he gained scars across the face and an eyepatch to cover a missing eye. But what was probably the worst...
He lost majority of his memories. All of the things mentioned above were told to him either by rescuers or police, investigating the accident. His own memories of his earlier life were blurry at best.
After the accident, since he had no living family or relatives, he was sent to the orphanage. Yet no matter how much he waited, no one wanted to take him. Other children also avoided him. There seemed to be no coherent reason, but others often whispered how that he looked scary. Because Tenma could not give clear explanation of the accident, it only made people more weary. He spent his days wandering around the orphanage, and picking up various books to read, since no one wanted to talk with him. He always liked to run freely in the orphanage garden, and draw everything that caught his attention.
The only person who did like him and try to cheer him up was the owner of the orphanage, who tried multiple times for people to adopt Tenma.
However, no one wanted the boy, which only made him more and more desperate and reclusive. Maybe it was because of his memory loss, but he needed something to replace the void he felt and that from his point of view, he never had any family.
So he grew tired of loneliness and after nearly 4 years in the orphanage, slowly lost hope that he would be ever taken home.
But one day, as he was blankly staring at the ceiling in his room, someone knocked to the door.
"Tenma-kun, you have guests. Please, listen to what they have to say"
The boy did not react as someone entered the room.
"Hi..." came the male voice behind his back" listen, I heard about your history... and that you are not exactly thrilled with talking with people now... but, I can promise that we can leave you alone if you listen to what my companion has to say and won't like it... sounds good? You don't have anything to lose with this"
Slowly, the boy rotated his body, to face a young adult man with slightly spiked up hair.
He bowed slightly with a smile.
"Hello, my name is Kamijou Touma."
"H... Hello..." Tenma spoke up, unsurely looking at the adult in his room.
Touma looked around, noticing the comic-like drawings around the room.
"You draw all of this?"
Tenma nodded slowly. Touma whistled in awe.
"One of my daughters loves art, she would feel like in heaven here. It's especially amazing since it's draw with only half of the field of vision..."
"Don't look at me!" the boy suddenly shouted angrily, turning back to face the wall.
Touma frowned a little.
"I am sorry if I offended you, I didn't intend to... but may I ask why are you upset?"
"I know... that I look awful. Everyone told me that I look like a delinquent" came the answer.
Touma sighed and leaned against the wall.
"If they judged you like this...they are certainly not a material for friends. I heard about your accident. And I can only say this..."
Tenma heard many words of half-hearted condolences in his life. But what the strange man called Touma said shocked him to the core.
"... I am so, so sorry. That I couldn't save them. Even when I know that I cannot reach everyone... it still pains me that you had to suffer like this because I couldn't try to prevent this"
Tenma looked at Touma yet again, with wide eyes. Why would that stranger apologize for something like this?
Touma shook his head and spoke again
"You probably already know why I am here. But the main reason for my presence, the one who sought you out... wants to speak with you herself..."
He then picked something... no, someone... from his shoulder. Tenma somehow didn't notice the strange, witch-looking doll before, and continued to stare at her when Touma lowered her on palm of his hand. Or rather, he stared without a word until the doll spoke.
"Hello there. My name is Othinus. Tenma, huh... the name of the temptation of Buddha and for mytical winged stallion of the east... it even sounds a bit similar to you, human. What a lucky coincidence..."
Tenma's lips slowly opened as he closed in on the tiny woman.
"It spoke! The doll spoke!"
"I am a 'she', young man." spoke ex-Magic God" Also, you are not afraid. Most people would be weirded out, but you are curious. Quite interesting..."
"Where do you put batteries... is it here..."
"DON'T LOOK AT MY BUTT!"
"Tenma-san, Othinus here is a living, organic being." Touma explained" I know it's hard to grasp, but she is the same as you and me, only... well, 15 centimeters tall."
"This is just..." Tenma tilted his head as he looked at tiny blond "I never seen anything like you before"
"I can only imagine" Othinus smiled, before raising up her hand" My human is right, we are here on my request. It took me some time to mentally prepare, and I am still not sure if I have-"
"Othinus" Touma gently rubbed her hand with a finger" You can do it. I believe in you"
Blushing a little, Othinus looked at still amazed Tenma.
"Getting to the real issue, me and Kamijou Touma are having feelings for one another. As peculiar as it may seem to you, it probably is, but it's still the fact. However, because of my... ekhm... incompatible vertical profile..."
"You are saying that you are too small and short?"
Othinus choked on air, and Touma burst out laughing at boy's comment.
"I like you even more now!"
"YES" Othinus grumbled, continuing" because of that reason, I have no capacity to give a birth to a child. That's why, after some thought, I made up my mind. Boy, what is your full name?"
"Ondo... Ondo Tenma"
"Then, Ondo Tenma..." Othinus took off her hat, and did a little bow" would you consider becoming my child and accepting me as your mother?"
"By extension, I would also become your dad too" Touma added.
Tenma's mind blanked out, as Othinus straightened up and smiled reassuringly.
"I wanted to go and say it to make my intentions clear, but you don't have to make the decision now, of course. Actually, I would prefer for you and us to talk through the rest of the day. If you have any questions about us, ask them, and we will answer as good we can.
After a while Tenma opened enough to tell them about his hobbies of sketching various fantastic scenes from his mind and observing the nature outside. He asked Othinus and Touma to tell him something about themselves, in the form of the story.
If anything, they definitely had that. Orphaned boy listened and listened and listened as Othinus painted the visions he never dreamed of listening to.
When she finished, he was practically on the edge of bed.
"Did.. did that story really happened? Or is it made up?"
"In a way, all stories ever told actually happened" Othinus answered cryptically" You just have to have enough power and imagination to bring them around"
She turned to Touma
"Such a great listener. Almost as good as you"
Touma nodded, before looking at the setting sun.
"Tenma-kun, we will be going now. If you like, we will come tomorrow..."
"Wait!" the boy interrupted" I... I wish to come... I wish to come with you!"
Othinus looked at him with a mixture of anticipation and hope. The boy was still stuggling, something breaking in him.
"But... would you really care? You won't... reject me too?"
Although carefully hidden, the hurt still permeated those words.
Touma crouched down, looking Tenma straight into the eyes.
"I swear that we won't. If there's one thing our family is, it is inclusive"
"Othinus-san... if I were to come with you, will you tell me more stories?"
Othinus nodded.
"Of course, there is much more. I don't know how much I will be able to do with that body, but we will try our best for you to be safe and cared for. I plan to open a flower shop combined with bakery. I will make sure that it will be a nice place for you, so if you could help me make that dream come true, I would really appreciate it. Also... when the time is right, if you feel comfortable with it, you can call me mom."
"Mommithinus" Touma didn't bother to hide his grin, as his Understander was in a rare state of bashfulness.
Tenma got to his feet. Throughout the day of stories, the conviction to go with this strange pair grew.
"Is it... really okay? Everyone said I always act out weird, staring into space and drawing things that don't exist..."
"I think a talent like that is rare and inspiring in a human" countered Othinus.
"Don't you find me... creepy? With my scars and missing eye... everyone was always weary because of how I looked..."
"Not at all. If anything..." Othinus lifted her hair to better showcase her own eyepatch "we match. See?"
Touma spoke up
"I heard that you had problem with loss of memories. Well, I can certainly say I have experience with that. We can't guarantee you that your memories will return, but we can promise to try to create new memories to replace the void you have in your heart"
IV. THE WELCOMING
Tenma walked through the dark corridor. He was accompanied by tall and slender girl with spiked up black ponytail and dark violet eyes, wearing rocker clothes and high heels.
"Why are you so jumpy?" she asked.
"It's just... all of this is so surreal. I didn't have family for so long, and suddenly I have dozens of brothers and sisters... Kenjou-san, maybe it's too early..."
"Don't sweat it. It's our duty to properly welcome you to the family. If you are troubled by something, I will personally deal with it. We are family now, so you can call me Kenjou or onee-chan"
They arrived in front of the big door from dark brown wood.
As Tenma nodded, the doors were opened...
"SURPRISE!"
With the streams of confetti and bright lights flashing into life, Tenma walked into the cheering crowd.
Kenjou gave Tenma a supportive squeeze on the shoulder and flashed him a bright smile
"Welcome to the Kamijou family! We are certainly a unique and lively bunch, but when we come together, we are undefeated team. Usually, we don't gather in full squad, except for some special occasions and holidays. But today is your welcome party, so we summoned everyone"
"You seem to be close..."
"We tend to squabble a lot too, many of us have differing personalities. But as a rule, if any one of us is in trouble, the rest will step up as much as they can to help. This is the Kamijou way. And as of today, that of course includes you too, little brother"
Tenma was soon surrounded by a group of boys.
"Dad told me... people hated those scars? They are so cool" said Takami, looking at Tenma's face.
"I can't express how much I am glad that we have new brother" Kaizumi shot a glance at the girls "As much as our sisters are great, the ratio is still screwed up a little bit"
"While those scars would probably scared the hell out of the sisters in the order..." Angelo said, shaking hands with slightly flabbergasted Tenma"... I can't deny that they look rather amazing"
"Wouldn't it be good thing if it scared the hell out of the nuns?" Tomoya raised an eyebrow at that.
"I knew someone will make this stupid joke..."
All of the sudden, Tenma was pulled away and surrounded by girls.
"They are right" cooed Miya, looking at the new addition to the family from every angle "you are quite handsome. I am sure mom could issue you some fabulous clothes"
"Can I upload are photo together?" asked Kanari" My feed would absolutely explode!"
"Me and mom can make you the best bento in the world when you visit cafe? What are your favourite things to eat?" Shishi jumped at Tenma from behind, her purple-black hair covering his arms slightly.
"I...I heard you like drawing... I... I like it... too... so maybe we could..."
Tenma could not help but blush. Even though all of those girls were supposed to be his sisters, it was still a new experience and they were really close.
"Okay, that's enough for now." Kenjou clapped her hands "How about we introduce ourselves? I am Kenjou, daughter of Saint of Far East, Kanzaki Kaori. I am sure that you had to hear something about her. My hobbies are kendo and guitar. If you ever need to have a good time or want a free pass to my band's concert, let me know. Although it's not this is anything special"
"She is super popular, but doesn't want to admit that" Kiseki whispered to Tenma from behind his back.
Shishi let go of Tenma's back and ran in front of him with hands behind her back.
"I am Shiina Tsushima, but everybody calls me Shishi. My mom is called Itsuwa and she is the best mommy in the world. She runs a bento shop, but is actually part of christian sect. And she really, really loves my dad and me, she always kisses us for any reason, it tickles... my hobbies are baking and reading old adventure novelas. I am so happy to meet you!"
Tenma could swear that girl's smiled almost visibly brightened the room. The introductions followed. A tall teen with short cut hair and visible musculature stepped forward with a serious face.
"H-Hello..." Tenma gulped, and wanted to step back...
...before the boy in front of him smiled and took out a bag of cookies from behind his back.
"My name is Ryodou. I baked some cookies for you. Welcome to the family"
"I helped in that!" Shishi jumped, waving her hand in the air.
As he and Ryodou bowed, and the taller boy spoke to Shishi, Kenjou mouthed to Tenma.
"Don't be intimidated over him. He is actually a really kind and gentle. Well, unless you are rude to Sei-chan, who is his precious imouto"
"I am sorry, I just assumed..."
"Oh, don't be mistaken, he is physically strongest out of all of us. In fact, he's one of the strongest people in Academy City's history when it comes to pure physical prowess. His mom, aunt Seiri, is a health product designer and an athlete. In her school years, she was keeping our dad in line, and it turned out that their genes together created a pinnacle of fitness. But Ryodou didn't always had this musculature. He has an esper ability, that allows him to convert kinetic and potential energy to one another. Because of that, he is able to store up impacts within his body and create shockwaves. But before he got strong enough body to use it properly, it tore through his muscle fibbers with each usage. He was stubborn though, and each time, it healed over as he got stronger. Today, he is strong enough that his power is more of an accessory, and he really appreciates when people see him outside of his strength."
Next was the pair of identical looking girls with blond hair and grey eyes.
"My name is Mary, and this is my twin sister Elizabeth."
"Their mother, aunt Leivinia, often provides us space to meet up on reunions or celebrations like this one. She also enjoys rather special bond with dad. As for the two here, Liz can be kind of a prick..."
" What can I say?" the half-british blond shrugged with a smug grin" Mama's genes oblige to using everything I have at my disposal"
"You wanted to make us pay you taxes for entering hotel when we were kids! Ekhm, meanwhile Mary revolutionized the usage of magic, embedding purely philosophical concepts as the foundations of the spell as first magician in history."
"S-Stop, you will make me blush!"
Tenma could swear that Elizabeth gave her twin slightly sour look, but he could be mistaken.
"This is Angelo, he is half-italian. His mom is leader of autonomous religious order and he is the one who always listened to various problems of others in our group.
"This is actually a lot more fun than it sounds, but it's way funnier here..." said the redhead.
"Tsubasa, the most talented in physics, whose dreams of becoming a pilot... at least, when his mom is not being overprotective"
"Your mom?" Tenma tiled his head
"Maidono Hoshimi, strongest telekinesis user. Very cool, but also very stubborn, and stupidly hard to escape from" the boy sighed
"You remember that one time when she got so angry that she pulled our plane down from the sky while standing on earth, and then stopped it just hundred meters above the ground?" Tomoya shivered "That was actually scary. Yes, auntie Maidono is NOT someone you piss off"
"That might be true" added a girl with a long, wavy, and dark hair, carrying a camera "Aunt Maidono can go overboard. But she only ever did it for a good reason."
"That's Shizuka. She is the daughter of Kankyougami Hasako, one of dad's most powerful and devoted partners. Aunt Hasako is the National Landscape Architect and closest friend of aunt Maidono"
"It's nice to meet you." said the girl named Shizuka" Can we do a photo together? I make sure to have a record of our reunions. It's my passion, to photograph beautiful things and important events. I usually do a nature photos or my mom's environments. Do you want to see?"
She showed Tenma a few pictures: sunsets, deserts, ice tundras, and fields. One particular photo caught the boy's attention. It depicted what looked like a tropical island with green hills, rainforests and sandy beaches connecting with crystal clear water.
"What is that?"
"Hmm? Oh, that's Kenkkonshima. You have a good eye"
"Kekkonshima... island of weddings?"
"It's called that because it is a wedding gift from my mom and aunt Maidono to my dad. Auntie Maidono erected it from the seafloor while my mom made it habitable through repeated changes of environment in one specific location. It's a private island and they often go there on their anniversaries"
"Sounds amazing...also, did you say that it was lifted from the seafloor?"
"Yes. Auntie Maidono may seem overdramatic or even comical, but she is incredibly powerful. She used to have a restriction of 100 000 tons of moved mass, but in very specific circumstances, she exceeded even that. My favourite story is when she saved my life. You see, my mom has a delicate built and doctor said that childbirth is particularly dangerous for her. She even miscarried once before having me. The point is, the labour was warned to be hazardous not only for me, but for her as well. And as if by the stroke of bad luck, the contractions began far earlier than anticipated, catching my mom by surprise in the remote part of town. Dad and aunt Maidono rushed to her aid, but they had to overcome some of the biggest traffics in the history of the city...
A car was standing in the middle of one of Academy City's bridges. In that car, a pregnant woman looked like she was fighting for her life.
Putting a hand over her big belly, the woman with a tradionally styled dark hair and caleidoscopic eyes muffled the scream of pain.
"Hey, stay with us. Focus on me. It's gonna be fine" Touma assured the Beginning Child.
The first esper blearily focused her attention on the man in front of her.
"Stop worrying, my dear. I am over 100 years old at this point. I felt worse than-"
She winced again, and this time, the cry of anguish fully escaping her this time.
"Don't worry, we will get you help. Just focus on my voice and my hand..."
"Don't joke. There is no way I am ever leaving you behind. Not now, not in decades to come. After all, we have to see our daughter grow up together... because I love you" Hasako whispered with a shadow of warmth in her eyes, before swaying slightly, as tremble permeated her body.
Touma turned in the direction of the driver.
"She is sweating and shivering... that doesn't look good. Hoshimi, how fast can we get to the hosp-"
"It's no use!" screamed the second woman, dressed very youthfully in the jeans, jacket, and converses" I tried to get people to listen to me, saying that my best friend is giving birth and she needs immediate medical attention. But apparently, everyone has things to get to and can't bother listening to me over honking their stupid car horns. Why is there even a traffic here in the first place, when majority of the population can't drive yet?!"
"Maybe there is some international conference. Anyway, we have no time! We must get Hasako to hospital, and fast! If only there was a way to get there without moving the car..."
Maidono looked around, at the cars, and the slim silhouette of the bridge. This particular passage over the river was made from special alloy, designed to be durable and sturdy but also light and elegant.
"There is a way. Talking time is over, I am going over to action now"
"Hoshimi... just..." Hasako whispered through pain" don't do... anything drastic..."
Maidono sighed at that.
"Touma, Hasacchi, drastic is the mildest I would do if any of you are in danger. I am done being someone who hides behind her complex and refuses to act. I wasted so much of my life doing that, before you came into it. Touma, you are a man that changed my life, a man that I dedicated my servitude to, the man who for the first time in eternity told me that I was okay the way I was, that I didn't need to exceed in order to be fine and loved. You are my lover, my inspiration, and someone I will serve with no hesitation. Hasako, you are my best friend, someone who gave me joy and acceptance when I needed it most, someone who accepted my weirdness and celebrated it by my side, who showed me how wonderful was to care for another person. You're my confidant, reason for many of my smiles, and one of the dearest people in my life. When it comes to you, there is no action too big for me, if it means two of you are safe and well. So I am not going to let you and your child die. If there is a chance of you not making it, I am stopping it, even if I am to choke death with my very own ability"
"Hoshimi... what are you planning?"
"You'll see"
The woman exited the car and then got on top of it. She eyed the distant ends of the bridge.
With two motions of her index fingers, walls of concrete and asphalt moved upwards, sealing off the passageway.
"Hoshimi?" Touma asked cautiously, as the telekinesis user got back onto the ground and took few steps forward.
"Don't worry, I am finest user of my ability in history, I swear it will work out. Just hold on tight and don't worry, I promise I will put it back later"
She then exhaled, focusing so intensely that her eyes almost rolled to the back in their sockets.
After a moment, she spread both of her arms while standing on the slightly bent knees, with arms and extended index fingers forming parallel line to the bridge.
Only after a few seconds, the entire construction started to vibrate and tremble, with the material straining under sudden increase of pressure.
Then, Maidono rotated her wrists, with her index fingers now facing upwards, and lifted her arms while straightening her legs.
The support of the bridge disconnected from the foundation. With a groan, the pillars crumbled and broke apart, one by causing the enormous construction to levitate in the air as it moved freely above the river.
"She lifted the entire bridge?" Hasako managed to mumble through her delirium.
"So much for not being over the top. Accelerator will never let me hear the end of it" Touma sighed, before smiling fiercely" But if it means that we are going to get help quickly..."
As the bridge was gaining altitude, many people escaped their cars in panic. However, no one or nothing fell down because the sides of the bridge were sealed through special net, while the exits were still blocked by walls Maidono erected.
The bridge floated above the city, with its mover carefully following the least crowded places. In the building of the nearby school, both students and teacher stared in disbelief at what was transpiring in front of them. People on the ground had their lips opened in the silent awe.
With her arms acting like a symbolic compass needle, Maidono manoeuvred the bridge, as it turned and changed altitude on their way to the hospital.
Hasako groaned and Touma noticed that back seat of the car is getting wet and alarmingly red.
"We'll be there in 5 minutes or so" Maidono screamed between gritting her teeth, as she slowly twisted her index fingers. "Sorry, but for something that heavy, I can't move it faster"
Two minutes later, in Certain Hospital, the panting security guard appeared before Heaven Canceller.
"Sir, there is something approaching our parking from the air..."
"Something?"
"It appears to be... well..."
"Appears to be what?"
"A... a bridge, sir. This modern one from down the river in district 7"
Heaven Canceller raised an eyebrow and sighed.
"Never a quiet day in this city. I have an idea who this might be. Sent someone on site, at once"
When lonely nurse appeared in front of the hospital, a shadow was cast on her.
Then, a metal construction slowly landed on earth, covering long distance of the street and sending up clouds of dust. The walls on each side crumbled down as it did.
The shocked nurse pointed at the sight in front of her as the air cleared.
"AH! A BRIDGE!"
"No shit! You are very perceptive..." Maidono, drying her forehead from sweat, walked over to the nurse and quickly flew her near the car with Touma and Hasako . "My friend is in unstable condition and she is giving birth. She needs a doctor and medical attention now. "
As if in confirmation, Hasako let out her most painful cry yet that almost sounded like her ability roar. This snapped the shocked nurse into reality, as she frantically grabbed a walkie-talkie.
"I need a stretcher, a room for labour, and team for delivering the baby, fast!"
Maidono brushed Hasako's completely wet forehead with her hand.
"Hold on tight. We will say hello to your daughter soon..."
"Shizu...ka... her name will be... Shizuka..."
"Yeah? So it will be"
When Hasako was taken away, people fled the bridge in panic or anger, leaving only Touma and Maidono.
"You're putting it back?"
"I will fix it, but not before I see Hasacchi and her child. Also, I am a bit unmotivated. Could you give me a kiss to change that?"
"Honestly, when will you stop showing off?"
"Come on" Maidono smiled, while leaning back on the passanger's seat" I know you think it's sexy"
"And so, I came into the world healthy and my mom survived. It's only thanks to that I can experience the beauty of this world and take the photos to commemorate it" Shizuka finished her story.
Kenjou carried on.
"This is Kaizumi, son of one of dad's closest advisors and allies, aunt Seria. Arguably the most intelligent..."
"Well, being her son is not something someone can easily live up to" Kaizumi said, more to himself than to anyone else.
"Except for the time when he has a stick up his ass and is sucker for rules..."
"HUH? I DO NOT HAVE ONE! I can be completely relaxed and cool! Don't listen to her!"
"Oh really? When me and Kanari went babysitting in place of aunt Konori and aunt Shirai, we completed it without a fail...owowowowowoww!" Kiseki stopped talking as Kaizumi grabbed her by the cheeks.
"Only because I was there! It almost ended in fire, car crash, and my clothes being turned into shreds. Not to mention karaoke booth-"
"We don't talk about karaoke booth" Kanari covered her face with her burgundy hair, trying to appear invisible.
"Why do I even bother with you two?!"
"B-Because..." Kiseki chuckled, giving her best cute expression" You love your lovely sisters and want to see them safe?"
"Children of Mental Traid forever" Kanari made a peace sign with a somewhat awkward smile"Actually, you love us to death. Right, onii-chan?"
Kaizumi slowly turned his head and...
STRETCH!
"Ayayayaya! MY CHEEKS!"
"Lovely my ass! You are so goddamn reckless every time. You had taken at least a few years out of my life expectancy for sure! Don't think I will go easy on you because you're a girl, given who our dad is!"
Kiseki squeaked and as she managed to free herself, she hid behind Tenma.
"The black haired girl with golden eyes is Kiseki." Kenjou did the introduction" She is daughter of the most powerful telepath, Mental Out."
"I heard about her. She is active in many areas and owns both Golden Bee Cosmetics and the biggest neuropsychological therapy clinic in Japan. Hmm... why are you named Kiseki? Because you look like a miracle?"
He was suddenly pressed into the girl's chest as she smiled wickedly.
"Hmm, talk like that and I won't like to let you go. As a matter of fact, it was not picked based on how I look. My mom and our dad have a complicated, tragic, and beautifully fulfilled romantic story. It's very long, but the very fact that they could cherish each other and have me as their child was a miracle. Look, here is photo of me, mom and grandma"
On the photo, two adult blonds were leaning over Kiseki. Each was having a sly smirk on their lips. They also had...
"Very big... smiles." Tenma muttered, still pressed into Kiseki's bosom.
"You know, he obviously can't breathe" Kanari approached and after some struggle, pried the boy off the long haired brunette" I am Kanari, self-proclaimed idol and socialite. If you need any help in reaching out to people, I will take care for everything. "
"Kanari's the most socially active out of all of us. Well, at least she tries, if only she wasn't terrible at reading clues..."
"WHAT WAS THAT?!"
"A-Anyway, look there! Our second set of twins, Miya and Tomoya. If you need anything in the aviation business, give them a call."
"Welcome" Miya bowed politely, while Tomoya pressed his hand to the chest with cocky smile
"Feel free to sap onto and bask in greatness of our fortune and splendor!"
Tenma opened his lips, but Miya shook her head
"What my over the top brother wanted to say is that you can always feel free to visit us and use mom's airlines if you need to travel. He just tends to get a bit... exalted. He takes after our mom"
Next was the girl in a casual clothing with a grey-black hair and dark blue eyes.
"And here is Tannia... well, she is called Britannia, but we use shortened form. She is a romantic searching for true love and is textbook example of repressed libido."
"I don't have repressed anything! Anyone would hate lust when my mom makes sounds that are heard all throughout the house while making out with our dad! Seriously! It is much easier to list things she DIDN'T do in bed with him."
"As you can see, she is secretly horny"
"I am not! I'm pure and nothing like mom. And even if I was, I don't want to hear anything from you when you receive fan letters to your band mail, with messages like 'Kenjou-sama, step on me!'"
The rocker girl blushed and screamed at Tannia.
"H-How did you know that?!"
"I didn't, I just guessed. Your reaction told me everything though!"
"She got you good!" Takami laughed, and Kenjou gave him an angry glare.
Tenma then got introduced to Etain, small brown-haired girl with a sweet sounding voice and (according to their siblings) natural born heartbreaker, and Rhain, the very energetic and inquisitive boy with blond hair. Accompanying them was...
"Silver Moonlight Aoife!"
The acclaimed teen martial artist and dancer shook her head in bashfulness, making her silver braided ponytail swish from one side to the other.
"I am your sister now, no need for the titles."
"You look so much better in person. I saw you once on TV in Japan's Championship"
The girl scratched her head in further embarrassment.
"Heh heh, thank you. Nice to see someone truly appreciating my effort, unlike some people"
She glanced at Kenjou, who gave her sister a wry smile.
"When you have only your hands to throw around, you're bound to have them cut"
"My swing will connect before you even touch that puny sheath."
"What was that, silverware?!"
"Just what I said, punk!"
Suddenly, both girls clashed, arm against a boken, with wild grins on their faces.
"Here we go again..." Kaizumi sighed in exasperation.
"What is going on?" Tenma asked, not yet knowledgeable about the antics of his siblings.
"They argue ever since they were small, almost about the same thing: weaponless martial arts vs swords. Which one is cooler, faster, more efficient, you name it. They also fight frequently, with both of them being extremely fast and agile... but as for now, there is a draw in the numbers. Let's leave them to their own devices for now"
The boy who offered an explanation had short stature, violet eyes, and black hair tied in a samurai top knot. He wore T-shirt with a colourful butterfly underneath white protective lab coat.
"I am Chousuke. I wanted to introduce myself and to say that no matter where you come from, this family is also a safe place for all the outcasts. I heard you've been a little bit of a loner... you know, my mom and her twin sister are former criminals. Mom is a genius epidemiologist, biologist, and chemist, but it wasn't always like that. They were feared by others in the underworld because they had quite the reputation. Because of this fear, and the fact that they left almost no survivours, they themselves were treated like vermin, like a plague. However, dad never forgot about mom's humanity. He used her talents, but at the same time allowed her to be herself. He valued the rejected, he knew just how much overlooked talents could be useful, if only they are treated with respect and compassion. All those factors, according to mom, were the reasons while she eventually fell for dad, and only waited for adulthood to come to fully thank him. She and aunt Kaai are still really scary to others, sometimes even to me, but... dad still allows them to be who they are, as long as they don't hurt others."
He looked at Tenma's missing eye.
"Hmm, I wonder what can we do about that... maybe I can ask mom to transplant some insect eye treated with steroids. What would you think about compound eyes, like dragonfly's? They have poor resolution, but great field of vision and improve reaction time"
"I think he would prefer mechanical eye, like with my mom" said voice behind the scarred boy's back.
Two girls behind his back, with dark chocolate and silver hair respectively, introduced themselves as Shimitsu and Parvati.
Apparently, Parvati had a potent regenerative ability that could also work on others if they ingested her blood in her close proximity. However, she shook her head with a sad frown.
"My ability can only heal relatively fresh physical traumas, up to 1 day after they were inflicted. I can't restore your eye, I am so sorry"
"That's fine." Tenma slid a finger over his eyepatch" I think I'll keep it that way. Thanks to it, I feel closer to mom"
"What is it like? To have aunt Othinus as a mother?"
"Really nice. Kind of strange, but really nice. We live together in a bakery combined with a flower shop. She supervises all administrative and economic aspects, and I, alongside with a few assistants, work in the shop in some days, after school. I sweep, form bread, and help make nice bouquets. It might sound dull, but mom always makes it more interesting by telling me insane stories. Sometimes it sounds like she really needs to get it off her chest. I know that she has dad... how does she call him again?"
"He's her Understander"
"Right... but she really is attentive. She always tries to make me a bento, even if it takes her a few hours in the early morning because of her size."
"That's sweet... I guess that would make you a honorary demigod, since our mothers were in Magic Godhood together."
Tenma blinked. One second, he was free to move, the next there was a brown-skinned, sweet smelling girl, practically enveloping him from behind. She smiled and bluntly asked
"What do you dream about?"
"W...What? Who are you?"
The skimpy clothed girl suddenly received a chop to the head and squeaked, letting go off Tenma. The brown haired boy that Tenma saw earlier dragged her to the back.
"This girl is Sena, daughter of Nephthys. She is a demigoddess."
"Demi... so, that Nephthys-san mom rants about ever so often is your mom?"
"Yup" the girl grinned" And believe me, that rivalry goes way back. It only got more intense when they both had their eyes on dad"
Othinus tried to furiously climb on the window frame.
"What... what are they doing?! Human, resist this!"
"Too late... I think they are kissing so wildly that they don't even hear their own thoughts. I can't blame Kamijou though. It is Nephthys we are talking about. Although... it seems she has a lot of fun on her own side... really, looking at her face, I never saw this kind of expression on-"
"That's it, I am going in! I know I said I will be okay if they do it before, but I am seriously having second thoughts! She is evidently mocking me"
There was a loud, high-pitched, feminine sound from the inside. Niang-Niang nodded vigorously.
"Wow, she jumped on him. Nephthys is so about crying, I never seen her act like that. It's just... wow! I don't know which party here is hotter!"
"Are you actually blushing while watching this?"
"It's not every day when your best divine friend is passionately making out with a mortal, and such a quirky one at that. Maybe we should join them? Operation Goddess Bedroom Triangle is a go!"
"I think hell will freeze over before I will be truly okay with that! HUMAN!"
Takami coughed and motioned in Sena's direction.
Sorry about her, she tends to be overly friendly with new people and don't know the concept of personal space."
"And what was that about dreams?"
"Takami! You hit me! You actually chopped my head again! I only wanted to make a good impression! You know mom is super cool and helpful. Like when she entered Liz and Mary's auntie!"
"This sentence is so wrong out of context!"
It seemed Sena's moods could change very rapidly, as tears appeared in her eyes.
"Answering to your question, she is very powerful with magic and can weave dreams. My name is Takami, and I study magic with Sena and her mom. My ambition is to one day become a Magic God."
"If you have any questions regarding magic, just tear this charm and I will know you are calling me" Sena handed Tenma a piece of parchment.
Tenma looked at it unsurely
"You don't use phones?"
"She was raised by a 4000 years old goddess of mourning, composite of dozens of slaves, and spent half of her life in phases beyond earth. Plus she can't take a hint" Shimitsu scoffed at her half-sister, who smirked at that.
"Right back at you"
Chousuke, Parvati, and Takami stifled laughter, and Shimitsu's knitted her eyebrows together.
"What are you laughing at?"
Takami leaned over Tenma's ear
"Kamito, twin brother of my girlfriend, is head over heels for Shimitsu. They are very close to our family, because our dads are best friends, I'm sure you will meet them soon. I don't know if it's because of her acting career or maybe she inherited our dad's romantic denseness, but Shimitsu can't get a clue. Everyone know except for her."
The introductions were wrapping up. But Tenma still got some surprises.
"Kneel. You have guts to greet with others before me" the blue-eyed girl with a storm of messy, light blond hair spoke with a strong english accent "I am the crown princess of United Kingdom"
At first, Tenma wanted to laugh but seriousness on the girls face and diversity of the siblings he met before made him reconsider. He knelt, the girl nodding in approval.
"Now, how can you repent for this discourtesy? Oh, I know. How about you lick my legs until they sparkle?"
Tenma looked at the foreign sounding girl in horror, until she finally broke down in a fit of boisterous laughter.
"Ahahahahahah! Your face was priceless... I can't, you really thought you will have to do it..."
"Sorry for her." the slim, casually yet stylishly dressed teen with black hair and identically blue eyes appeared on the right side of the blond" She is kind of the sadist"
"I am not" the blond finally stopped laughing, and looked at Tenma with interest" Not my fault that people are so fun to mess with. Come here!"
The girl gave him a hug and then shook his hand.
"You have a nice grip, I like that in men. Plus, I can assure you those scars don't look bad at all"
"Ehm..."
"Oh, where are our manners? I am Leonard Windsor-Kamijou. I am the son of Queen Regnant Rimea The Wise. I suppose I am 1st in line to the throne. My hobbies are collecting rare gems and venturing out of the palace incognito. I am very pleased to welcome you among us"
"I am Kira Averil Windsor-Kamijou, daughter of Renegade Princess of War, Carissa. As you can see, me and Leo are both half-siblings and cousins. I am 4th in line to the throne. I love to ride horses, read mystery novels, and testing my limits with new, interesting people. I hope to have some fun with you, new brother"
"Beware of her fun, seriously. She says she is mellow, but she is aunt Risa 2.0"
"That's an absolute lie!"
"Truly? Who almost assassinated my ex-girlfriend?"
"You are going to be king one day and you have no sense of danger when it comes to opposite sex who would want to abuse that position. Therefore, it's only natural that I would truly test those who want to date you. Was I wrong? They are all your "exes" now!"
"Because you scared them away!"
"Your majesties?"
Both looked at Tenma.
"You really don't have to address us like this."
"Well, did dad really... got close to british royalty?"
"We are living proof, aren't we? Dad always liked mature, older women... plus our grandma, Queen Mother Elizard, really put her mind into trying to get him into the family. In case of my mom... in a very big recap... she rebelled against the crown, almost slaughtered her family because of her patriotic ideas, but with help of many allies, dad punched her so hard that she felt through the palace, afterwards he saved her... and later she assumed it was really hot"
"Ah...huh..."
"As with my mom, the Queen, is actually rather touching and long story. When she had trust issues, she and dad wrote letters to each other or spend time together in a form of therapy. Omitting many details, she was able to open up a little thanks to him, and started to appreciate many things. She even proposed for dad to be the king, but he refused, as he didn't feel he would handle the responsibility. However, he is permanent consort and Royal Advisor, always welcome in the court as if it was his own. She gave him a ring, that he eventually gave me... wait... where..."
"Looking for this?"
A boy with dark brown hair and magenta irises came from behind Leo, with a ring with a blue stone embedded in it.
"Haruto... how the hell did you steal that?"
"Never underestimate an illusionist. Oh, the star of the evening! I am Haruto... and you also might want to have this back"
"My phone! When..."
"He has fast fingers and even smoother way of speaking. We should really test our palace defences with you"
"What can I say? I am a rebellious ladies man, with bit of a knack for magical flare"
"Onii-chan! Stop showing off, it's rude for our new brother"
Younger girl with a very cute face and bleached blond hair kept in ringlet curls scolded Haruto, who sighed and patted her on the head.
"Fine, Chi-chan, I was just playing around. You know I can't say no to my cutest little sister in the world... give me those squishy cheeks!"
"Onii-chwan, shtop, I am nod a baby anymohhhh... shtooop!"
"Haruto and Chinatsu are, like us, both cousins and half-siblings. They enjoy really close bond... for good and for bad."
"Onii-chan! I will tell mom and auntie Kaibi! And mom will surely make you sit on a toilet through entire day!"
"A-Alright, neither mom nor auntie Rikuri need to know. Well, in the name of Gokusai family, we welcome you in our siblinghood"
As time passed, Tenma met Seika, who was to sing at the end of the reunion, Shizuka, who introduced herself as Tsubasa's closest sibling and daughter of Kankyougami Hasako, Japan's National Landscape Artist, as well as the youngest members of the family and their temporary caretaker.
"It's nice to meet you. My name is Kazakiri Hyouka. I am here because according to the point of view, I can be viewed as the older sister to all of you. Not blood related though, so I am just like you" spoke the girl with glasses, ample chest, and one strand of brown hair coming down to earth" Can you help me with Junya and Setsu? I think they need changing. And Serina-chan gone missing, we must find her or else Itsuki-san would be furious."
She was referring to two small babies crawling around their legs.
After the smelly duty was taken care of, Tenma lifted a black haired girl with blue eyes, who giggled merrily and reached out to hug his head.
"Seems like Setsu really likes you. Then again, she takes liking to many things. Her mom, Ruiko-san, left her with me so she could meet you. And also because I imagined that she needed to rest a little bit. Aside her, there is Kumone, son of Mii-san, but he stayed with mom this time"
"What about him?" Tenma looked at the little boy. He had peculiar hair, red with a strands of black, and brown eyes that almost seemed golden.
"Junya... this is a bit complicated. His mom and Kamijou-san are... their relations need... they are close, but... some circumstances got tangled up... I think it's best for your dad to explain this one day."
Tenma was curious over his mysterious sibling, but decided not to pry in.
Ultimately, they also found the grey-eyed with dark brown hair, who crawled under the table in the corner the room and grabbed Tenma by the hair, before pulling it out and laughing at his scream.
Sometime later, as he walked outside of the group, he noticed two girls standing by the wall.
"Hey, is everything okay?"
"Yes... everything is fine... we just don't like crowds all that much."
"I am Tenma, and you?"
"This is Sei-chan, and I am Mizumi." said the girl with a dark, fluffy hair, and green eyes.
Mizumi then told Tenma about her ambition of writing the history of all the adventures of Touma and all of his allies.
"You love writing and books, Mizumi-chan?"
"That's right. When mom and me were sightseeing in London, I got lost in the cathedral and wandered for nearly an hour before finding my way to the library. I was found by Archbishop Index... no, aunt Index... and given a tour."
"What was she doing there?"
"Smuggling snacks, I think. But ever since that time, I fell in love with libraries and smell of paper. And because I love my dad and everyone in the family, I truly wish to write the greatest story in the world. Aunt Index writes to me a lot and promised to help with it"
"I... heard... you like to draw" Sei spoke gently to Tenma" When the time comes... would you help me with something?"
Many years after that evening, a painting was put in the Academy City art museum. It was a big painting, depicting all of Kamijou Touma's many children, together with their mothers and father, posing on the hill near the riverbank. Made by Kamijou Seiri and Kamijou Tenma, it was the conserved by the means of science and enchanted through magic, and as such, was to endure for many, many generations that followed.
V. THE PRAISE OF NORMALCY
Saten Ruiko and Uiharu Kazari sat together in a peculiar scene.
They both wore diving masks and had their noses pinched with clips as they stared at the pot in front of them.
"Saten-san... is this a good idea?"
"You know how I feel about wasting food"
"But... is this even edible?"
"I guess we will have to try"
What led to this situation? Few hours earlier, Saten called Uiharu to her apartment on a very important matter.
"What is it, Saten-san? It better not be another ingenious challenge from some online video"
"No, no, this far more important. You see..." Saten took a deep breath. before clasping her hands before in a begging pose" Please, help me in setting apartment for the guests."
"You brought me here as the house cleaning?" the hacker crossed her arms with eyebrow raised.
"No, more like my best friend, in a role of wholesome standby emotional support. You don't have to do much, just your presence here makes wonders. Oh, it would be great if you stayed for the lunch too..."
Uiharu's pride was pleasantly satisfied by her friend's words, so she stayed as, Saten mopped the floor with energetic 'Doryaaaaa!' on her lips, dusted, vacuumed, mopped, set her various memoirs from urban legend investigations straight on the shelf, and threw away the waste, but one question was on her mind.
'Though it may seem that she is okay, doesn't the fact that she needed me here suggest that she's actually stressing about something?'
The answer arrived when Saten started to cook. She was a bit... distracted, and they were about to find it out the hard way.
After being in the kitchen for some time, Saten proudly presented the entire line of both hot and cold dishes, from small appetizers and vegetables, through soups, to second dishes and desserts.
"All I need to do is let this curry-styled sauce finish cooking. I wonder how it's going..."
Saten, humming merrily, walked to the pot and lifted the lid a little bit.
Inside was a red-to-orange sauce that Saten made multiple times before. It was a perfect seasoning for meat, a culinary experiment between italian and indian cuisine.
It usually had soothing fragrance, that slowly heated you up, just like its taste.
But now, Saten felt as if someone set her nose and eyes on fire. In less than a second, level 0 felt the need to sneeze.
"What is... achoo!"
Saten Ruiko sneezed. And afterwards, she sneezed again. And then again, with tears forming in her eyes.
Concerned Uiharu shared the same fate, when she came running and come too close to the pot.
"Saten...achoo!...san, what is wrong with this sauce?" she asked, choking and coughing, as they both quickly stepped back.
"I don't know... but we have to retreat for now..."
Uiharu agreed. Barely seeing through tears and fighting not to sneeze was not best conditions for her to think logically.
Fortunately, Saten was quick to react and in no time they had diving masks on their eyes and laundry clips on their noses. The burning sensation lessen to the point when they could normally converse.
It didn't take them long to notice what was the problem.
"So you are telling me that you spaced out and didn't notice that almost entire container of pepper and spices got into the sauce?" Uiharu pouted and Saten, who laughed at it. "You didn't even notice the lid falling inside?!"
"I am sorry Uiharu... now, with heavy heart, but... let's do this!"
They each ate the spoon of sauce at the same time.
Uiharu knew that breathing fire from eating spicy food in movies was just an effect, but in that moment, she and Saten were very close to achieving that phenomenon.
The misfortunate sauce finally ended being thrown away and the two girls consumed many glasses of milk for their throats and lips to return to normal.
"Saten-san..."
"Hehehe... cheer up, Uiharu. Here, we can try this delicious cake. It's one of your favourites..."
The girl in flower headband, ever fond of sweets, was tempted by the perspective.
Until...
"Bwah! It's salty! Did I mix salt with sugar?"
"SATEN-SAN! That's it! It's obvious that just being here is not enough. It's not like you to get so distracted that it messes up your cooking. Talk to me about those guests of yours, or I am leaving!"
Saten waved her hands in front of herself.
"No, no... I will tell you. You see... Kamijou-san is coming over for the lunch and...I am feeling a little... nervous..."
"Why though?"
"It was going to be just me and him..."
"Saten-san, you are not going to be in denial here, right?"
"No, no, of course. Ever since we got to know each other better, I was liking him more, and more. He is so interesting, and open-minded, treats everyone equally, and has so many amazing stories to tell. I... feel a bit guilty. I obviously like him, meanwhile Misaka-san had affection for him for much longer... I am a little bit worried... then again..."
"Then again..."
"Something very weird happened few days ago... I followed a trace of some rumour I heard on the internet and I was apprehended by the Judgement member from different district. But then...
"Do you understand the severity of what you did? You were trespassing in the area that is strictly prohibited and houses secret weapon plans."
"I already said sorry..."
"I am afraid I have to take you to custody and interrogate you"
"B-But I wasn't even inside..."
"Stop, stop, stop..." A new voice entered the conversation, as the short girl in chinese-looking dress appeared out of nowhere next to Saten" She didn't mean it and she is with me. Bye, bye."
And with that she started to drag Saten away.
"H-Hold it!" shouted enraged Judgement girl" Who the hell do you think you are?"
"Oh, I have many names, but usually I go by Niang-Niang"
"Are you a foreigner? Identify yourself and show me your visiting ID!"
"That's just rude assumption, don't you think, Saten-san? I hate such obnoxious people"
Saten tilted her head. How did that strange girl knew her name?
"If you won't tell me, I will search myself. I am a telepath, every thought of yours may be used against you."
Niang-Niang sighed and in the blink of an eye she moved straight in front of the Judgement member.
"You can try. But those thoughts can change reality. Read them and your mind will burn. Literally"
"S-Stay back..."
"It seems that you can't take a hint. Fine, I will help you"
Niang-Niang flicked her finger. It didn't reach the other girl's forehead.
But tremendous roar followed from both sides.
As the Judgement member looked around... she saw...
Nothing.
Everything was pulverized and gone, only leaving smoking ruins and burning devastation, stretching over what seemed many kilometers...
The other girl became covered in sweat.
"What... what is... what is this?"
"What is what?" Niang-Niang asked.
"This-"
The devastation disappeared. Everything appeared as it was before.
"You are tired" Niang-Niang said, staring deeply into the girl's eyes" Be gone from my sight."
Mumbling to herself and blinking like mad, the Judgement member left in a hurry.
"So, that annoying nuisance is dealt with" Niang-Niang clapped her hands.
"Was that... was that real? That attack you did?" Saten asked. "Also, thank you for helping me for... some reason"
"I helped you because that girl annoyed me. And because I like you. As for the attack, you can choose what you wish to believe." she then muttered to herself" I warped reality only on very small scale, but it still needs refinement... well, there will be time to test it"
"Also... are you okay? You seemed kind of... cold. When you touched me, that is"
"Oh, that's because I am kind of dead"
"No... you are not"
"Yes, I am. Well, undead is better term."
Saten did not know how to react to the girl's strange way of speaking.
Now, I wanted to have a little chat with you, since you are such a funny girl."
"Thanks?"
"Buy me some burgers"
"Don't you have money on you?"
"Sorry, me not speak nihongo"
"You spoke it perfectly seconds ago!
"She was very strange, and I can't stop thinking about this meeting... I don't know why, but I felt that I can talk to her..." Saten mused out loud" She had similar issues to me and said she was surprised that someone like me could understand her. She said her best friend that she knew for a very long time developed feelings for someone and she wanted to be in touch with both her friend and that guy. Maybe she even had feelings herself... she said she wanted to have fun with that guy, whatever that meant..."
"She suggested something in regards to your situation, Saten-san?"
"She just said 'Whatever you do, simply do it. Instead of thinking about doing, just do it'"
"That's... very straightforward, but in some cases, it may be best solution."
Suddenly, there was doorbell ring.
"Oh, there is one more thing. My brother is coming to visit"
"Oh, I managed to speak to him once during Daihaseisai. How is he?"
"He is fine, and was really curious about the city so he managed to get one-time pass."
They were almost by the door and Saten reached for the doorknob.
"However, he will be here in the late evening, so for now, let's focus on Kamijou...
The door opened. Showing not one, but two people.
"...san" Saten finished blankly.
One of them was familiar spiky haired level 0. The other was a shorter boy only entering his teens, with brown hair, and blue eyes, that seemed to change hue of blue depending on the lighting.
Eyes identical to Ruiko's own.
"Hey Saten-san. I know you are probably surprised by now"
"Kamijou-san?" Exclaimed the brown-haired boy, looking at Touma" So you are onee-chan's dream guy?"
"Kenko! I... I just said how nice Kamijou-san is and-"
"Onee-chan? You are Saten-san's brother?!"
Everyone ended up speaking over one another.
(LATER)
Eventually, everyone got comfortable enough to eat some snacks and talk.
"I am Saten Kenko" the boy introduced himself, bowing slightly in front of Touma" I am 11 years old, and as you already know, I am Ruiko's younger brother. I love sports and board games, as well as hearing of all of the things that happen in this city. Onee-chan spoke many praises about you..."
Touma laughed and also bowed back.
"It's nice to meet you, Kenko-san. I can see familial similarity to Saten-san in you and it's nice coincidence that we bumped into each other. Usually, I don't get nice twists of fate..."
"So, you're saying..." Ruiko spoke" that Kenko wanted to surprise me, so he arrived earlier, but he got lost in the city after arriving from the airport. Then you bumped into him and offered him help in getting here"
"Pretty much. I had no idea that it was Kamijou-san who helped me and I guess he had no idea that I was your brother or that I am even going to visit you. But it was an awesome struck of luck! He told me many great things about this place before we got here!"
"Well, it's only because you told me cool things too!"
Ruiko blushed.
"Kenko... you didn't say anything weird, right?"
"Nah, nothing like that. Just talking about boys stuff and so on."
Two boys fist bumped each other with wide grins.
'Wow... they bonded fast' thought Ruiko and Uiharu on the other side of the table.
Also... i-it is very nice to see you, Uiharu-san. How are you doing?"
"Fine. Quite overworked, but I manage. Last time we spoke face to face was few months ago, but I always checked if you write to me. I am glad you remembered my face"
"Y-Yeah... of course I remembered. I am grateful that onee-chan has such a cool friend"
The conversation went on. They ate proper meal, played some video and board games. They told stories about their homes, life in Academy City and in Kenko's case, life outside of it.
Touma learned of Kenko's hobbies, his dreams for the future, and some memories he shared with his sisters when he and their parents came to the City. From what Touma could tell, both Saten siblings shared the same enthusiasm and open mind to various unexplained phenomena, even if Kenko seemed slightly more mellowed down than his always energetic older sister.
Uiharu shared some of the details of her hacking work, complained about Kuroko's behaviour in regards to their workload, suggested Kenko some sweet shops in the city and general sights to visit.
Ruiko told Kenko about history of her relationship with Touma and later on went on and on about various urban legends she was recently investigating, as well as giving the display of her agility skills with kendama, the one she got long ago through dream but still perfected ever since.
Touma himself shared various stories from his everyday life, including his interactions with friends and roommates. Changing some details, he also mentioned details of his various travels in the country and abroad. Frequently asked by Kenko, he also answered his questions regarding Academy City and his friendship with Ruiko and Uiharu.
Before they knew it, there was evening already.
"I am sorry everyone. It's time for me" Uiharu got up from the table, and started to collect plates" I will help Saten-san with cleaning and then I will be off"
Touma was about to offer his help as well, before Kenko grabbed his arm.
"Kamijou-san, can we please talk? In private?"
Touma looked at the younger boy in surprise, but nevertheless complied.
As they both went to the toilet, Kenko exhaled and inhaled. But before he spoke...
"You want to ask me about Uiharu-san, right? You want to go with her, walk her to the bus. Am I right?"
Kenko clenched his fist, as blush grew on his face. He ruffled his slightly messy hair.
"Damn... I was so obvious?"
"Not for Uiharu-san. Maybe for your sister, since she knows you best. But as a fellow guy, I could see it right off the bat. You like her, don't you? Uiharu-san..."
"D-Don't tell-"
"I won't, I promise."
"It started when onee-chan introduced her at the end of Daihaseisai. I never believed in all of the things about love at first sight, but something about her... I knew I must get her contact. She agreed and we were writing to each other, and meeting each time we visited the city. We were always the three of us: me, her, and my sister. And now I can be alone with her. But..."
"But?"
"But she obviously sees me like a little brother or someone like that. Since I am her best friend's sibling... I also know that the distance and age gap make it difficult, but... it's just so frustrating..."
"What do you like in Uiharu-san? What do you want to do with her?"
"W-Well... she seems really nice and supportive of my sister. She gives it her all, even when she can't fight directly. I am really impressed that she has all of those skills with computers and how she can provide support... plus, I think she looks really cute and I want to... want to..."
"Yes?"
"I really want to cuddle with her!"
Kamijou was almost blinded by the light of purity, that would make the tainted demon of deviation Aogami Pierce recoil with a shriek.
Touma lowered himself slightly and grabbed Kenko by the shoulders.
"Listen, Kenko-san. I am going to give you senpai's advice. As a fellow man with a dreams of my ideal type of girl, I can only say: go for it"
"I am supposed to... cuddle with Uiharu-san right now?"
"What? No! But... you are supposed to follow your heart. You have one life, so do what you believe and dream. You should try. You should be brave and work your way to her heart. It may take time and it definitely may be frustrating. It may not work. But if you don't try, you won't find out if Uiharu-san may ever feel the same way. Age gap? Of basically 2 years? Please, this will be nothing in more than half a decade. And as enjoyer of older women, I can only approve. She thinks of you as someone you don't won't to be. Then act! Prove her wrong by your actions motivated by this love. Go forward with all of your beliefs and prove to yourself what this feeling truly is. It may be a crush, but if it's true love, then you should not let it go under any circumstance. My point is... try, reach out, even if it hurts. I got your back, so if you are certain about what you feel or you want to learn more..."
"Yes... yes, I do!"
"I didn't hear you!"
"YES I DO!" Kenko yelled, forgetting about their discretion.
"Then go give our resident flowerhead and give her a nice walk to the bus or to her dorm!"
Kenko looked at Touma with hopeful gaze, uncertainty slowly replaced by confidence.
"Now I am feeling motivated! You give great advice! I am surprised that you didn't tell me to be yourself"
"And do you know who you are?"
"No.. Not really. I mean... I am still growing up..."
"Then you see how useful this advice is. Hah... all of this doesn't change a fact that I am still miserably single..."
"Don't worry. You'll date my sister, obviously."
"Huh? But this depends on her, and I don't know if she is even interested..."
Kenko crossed his arms.
"Huh... I could swear that from what she told mom, dad, and Uiharu-san... well, I would like if it was you, as her boyfriend. You seem like someone who could really look out for her. My onee-chan... is the best, funniest, and most amazing sister in the world. I honestly miss her and would like to stay with her, but... well, I am not an esper, and it's a bit late for me to enrol here... you know, every time I see her, I am just glad how happy she looks.
I heard that onee-chan was stillborn at the labour, and didn't respond to anything shortly after birth. But just when it seem that she was not going to make it, she started to scream. Our mother was convinced that it was a miracle and cried in happiness. This is why onee-chan is named Ruiko, child of tears, in the memory of the ones our mom shed when my sister pursued life over death. I don't know if it was because of that event or because our mom is generally very protective, but she always worried and doted on my sister. She didn't really want to send her here, only because Ruiko insisted very stubbornly. But I am really happy to see that she has friends here and is practically glowing with energy. It feels like she is at home here too.
But, I am also worried. Sis was always free-spirited, even in my earliest memories. She would always go against things bigger than herself, get into strangest of troubles. In this city, she is a level 0, with no power at all, while her nosiness didn't disappear at all. Kamijou-san, you are strong, and my sister already likes you. So please... look after my sister in my place"
Touma listened to Kenko and finally straightened himself up.
"You are right. I will protect Saten-san. But not because she is weak. I actually believe she is one of the strongest people of all."
"But onee-chan was always down about being level 0. Uiharu-san even told me that she almost got hurt because of using this Level Upper device"
"Strength of a person is not measured through his or her power. The true strength is showed by the value one places in life of the another. It's the kind of strength that is showed in the darkest moment, in the most shadowy realms of human nature. Remaining kind and optimistic despite being a person without privilege is so incredibly hard... yet Saten-san proved time and time again that she is capable of doing so. She says that she is not important in the grand scheme of things. I say that she is one of the most important people out there. Not because she is powerful, not because she is famous, not because she is rich. It's because she has the knowledge of someone who knows injustice of the world, while also having a heart of someone that dreams of a better world. I was told she has the ability to create connections and befriend people that seemed impossible to bond with. She has the ability to represent the best possible future I would want to achieve through my own actions... she is that constant reminder of hope in this messed up world filled with cruelty. To maintain hope and smiles of others despite the risk of weight of the world crushing your own it's such an invisible, yet also such an important courage to have. She might resent it, but the normalcy is something that many dream of. She believes she can't do anything, but she does more for her friends, for other people, and for me, than she ever realizes. The feeling that in this world there is someone like her, who brings joy, and rest to the people in need, someone who sees wonders in the world that forgot about them, someone with whom every day is exciting even through the most simple of things, someone who carries the smile brighter than false lights that pretend to be the paragons of virtue... thanks to people like her, the world can go on. Thanks to Saten-san, so many of us have the strength to carry on through our lives with hopes and smiles renewed. She can create so many friendships and enrich the world in so many ways that me and my right fist could never dream of. Saten-san may not be able to be to move objects through the power of will or bend spoons with her mind. But she still moved us: Misaka, Uiharu-san, Shirai-san, myself, and others, to see things we forgot. To not give up. To realize just how beautiful and fun the world could be. It wasn't anything or anyone other than Saten Ruiko. It was just the power of heart from this one single girl, who never was before and never will again, on the surface of the earth. That's why I think she is one of the strongest of us and I will forever defend that claim!"
Kenko let out a breath that he did not know he was holding.
Back on the other side of the door Saten Ruiko froze, with her hand in the middle of a knocking motion.
She came to the door, concerned about louder shouts from earlier, and accidentally heard everything, from her brother's story about her birth to the current moment.
Her heart of hearts was trembling and she was crying, hot tears falling on the floor. Yet they were tears of hope and joy, Ruiko's very namesake.
She felt warmth and happiness spreading from tips of her toes to the roots of her hair, as she sighed quietly, her cheeks heating up more than ever in her life as she smiled brightly through the tears.
'I half-joked about Misaka-san's story about overhearing Kamijou-san... Touma... speaking of protecting her and the world around her... but honestly... whose heart wouldn't melt while hearing such words... I am sorry, Misaka-san... it appears that I received critical hit... and those feelings will only increase from now on...'
Without no doubt, many people would only dream to have someone look upon them in the way Saten looked on Touma for the rest of the evening.
KONORI MII BONUS SCENE: MANGER EXTRAORDINAIRE
Konori Mii was happy beyond belief.
She managed to acquire the position of Civil Consultant for Judgement for Kamijou Touma
"This way if he gets intro trouble, I will be able to send him a proper back up without the need for him to be completely enlisted!"
After a moment, the high school Judgement Branch leader walked into the mirror. She traced a finger on her slightly oval face. She looked at her herself closely.
Her face slowly heated up as she began to ponder.
"I did that and I am happy with it... but even though I did kiss him back then, I still feel that I need to make a mark. I need to truly tell him that I agree to be a part of his life... no, I am happy to be a part of it... is there anything I can do make him truly happy? Something only I can do?"
Suddenly, she realized something.
There was something like this.
But...
"N-No! There is no way. My dignity..." she whispered.
Something changed in Konori Mii after her life was saved. She wanted to present herself in the way that Kamijou Touma would like her.
So with each protest she said outloud, her mind grew actually weaker, instead of stronger.
"No..."
Her reflection smiled shyly.
"NO!"
Grin widened and devious sparks appeared in the eyes.
"NO! T-There is no way!"
2 weeks later, there was a knocking to Kamijou Touma's new apartment.
"Who is this? It's so early in the morning..." the boy wondered, yawning. And when he opened the door...
"H-Hello. I applied for the dorm management practice, one day relief of the usual manager who went for the holiday."
Touma stared in wonder at the young woman in front of her.
Her hair grew enough for her to tie it up in a single bun. She delicately traced her slightly oval face with cosmetics and changed the eyeglasses, resting on her slim nose, into much sophisticated looking. To top it off, she wore the elegant blouse combined with dark skirt, with pantyhose-like stockings and chique boots.
Konori Mii looked at him, somewhat awkwardly.
"T-This is probably a one time thing... but I will be your helpful dorm manager for today!"
Blood dripped down Touma's face.
"I usually don't think my life is nice, but I am so glad to be alive right now... thank you, I... I really can't stop looking at you"
"W-Well, it's surely not all that good. After all, I am an officer, not a-"
"It's not just good, it's perfect. Don't sell yourself short"
Konori covered her face in embarrassment.
"You always say such an embarrassing things!"
All of the sudden, Touma dropped to the floor, startling the girl.
"W-What happened?"
"Ehm... I didn't want you to see it"
"See what?"
"Let's put it this way... it's early morning, I am in my sleeping shorts, and you, Sexy Glasses, appear out of the blue dressed like a dorm manager. What follows is... thermal expansion"
Konori caught up. And blushed so hard that her face turned into tomato look-alike with glasses.
"I am so, so sorry. It just happened, that's why I-"
"No, no don't apologize. I was the one to came her unannounced. But... how long are you going to lie there?"
"Until it passes."
"Oh..."
"..."
"You know, you should really just put different pants when you are going to the door..."
"Lecturing me in that stern tone while dressed like that doesn't make the situation easier!"
(LATER)
As much as Konori didn't want to admit it, work of Dorm Manager was something she could work with.
She segregated all the documents regarding the building, ordered the cleaning, checked the trash disposal, assessed if all things were working as they should and didn't need any repairs.
Her ability was also suited for this work just as much as the work in Judgement. She could see any inappropriate behaviour or outright violation behind the walls if she focused enough.
Maybe she could make this work on weekends or so? Or as a part time job?
She didn't plan to tell that to Touma. Not yet.
But this was definitely something worth considering.
She glanced at her reflection and narrowed her eyes, imagination taking hold of her.
My, my, what a delinquent resident we have here." Dorm Manager Konori spoke, slamming one hand on the wall next to imaginary Touma" You understand that for your misbehaviour there will be consquences"
"No, what did I even do?"
"Oh, I don't even know where to start. Should I list it chronologically or alphabetically? You are bad influence all over..."
"W-What can I do to stop your anger?"
"Anger? I am not angry... because for you, my rebellious student, I am extracting the punishment myself. Hope you are ready"
"Ready for..."
Dorm Manager Konori pressed her lips against those of Imaginary Touma.
Her big chest also put pressure on the boy's rib cage.
"I am going to educate you until you understand. And even beyond that. Until you are picture perfect inhabitant of this building."
Konori kissed without any restriction, forgetting that she was the one who was supposed to uphold morality and...
CLANG!
She snapped out of her fantasy, as she accidentally kicked into the fire extinguisher. She panted, rosy hue slowly fading from her cheeks.
"That... that was... so..."
She didn't have words. She didn't experience anything like this since her crush on Kurozuma. She never had imagination of such intensity.
Maybe being a Dorm Manager had one disadvantage.
Being in presence of Kamijou Touma would have major imparing influence on her moral judgement.
Even now, she was still checking her lips and forcibly stopping herself not to reenact the role in real life.
And speaking of the real life...
"Konori-san... are you okay?"
Konori's eyes widened, as she turned around to see Kamijou Touma standing near the end of the corridor.
"K...Kamijou... how much... did you see?"
"Well, since you started to... hug the air, I think? While making some interesting noises. You looked really happy and had a beautiful smile, so I didn't wanted to!"
He barely avoided the electric taser being sent his way.
"Woah!"
"FORGET ABOUT WHAT YOU SAW! THIS INSTANT!"
"I... I don't think I can... it plays on repeat in my head now, it was so cute..."
"THAT WAS A ONE TIME SLIP! I AM NOT PERVERTED IN REAL LIFE!"
"Sexy Glasses, I understand. When the time comes, you will accept your true self"
"KILL ME NOW!"
Parvati is Woleverine with Anaemia. Rh Null is a real phenomenon in a biological world. Those people can give blood to absolutely everyone, but they can only receive it from handful people in the world. Most accidents with blood loss are deadly for them.
As bit of design trivia, muscular look of Ryodou is slightly inspired by Tengen Uzui and looks of Rikuri's daughter Chinatsu are a homage to Francois from Dr Stone.
A quick word about Scavengers dynamic with Touma and others:
Scavengers now live under Touma's and Accelerator's jurisdiction. They must work to stay free, but Touma allows them to have weekends and two days of the week free. Here are their relationships:
Rita- She is initially apprehensive and scared of Touma, only slowly realizing how he actually is. Despite the apprehension, she is grateful because Touma saved her team. She is apparently really bent on hating her estranged aunt. Will Touma be able to help them reconcile at some point in this story?
Yakumaru- Yakumaru develops a specific psychologically reversed form of romantic affection for Touma after he seemingly ignores her, being the first man in a long time to do it only to be smitten with her later, causing the two to circle around one another. Yakumaru wants to seduce Touma, but in a slightly different way than Lessar wants to do it. Yet with each attempt, she falls for him more instead of other way around. I imagine that Yakkun has Touma's child in the future, one of the youngest out there.
Naru- Naru doesn't accept the situation easily and is initially very hostile against Touma, going even so far as trying to kill him. Her action are motivated by jealousy of Yakumaru's attention shift on Touma, mixed with actual appreciation for what Touma did, causing a conflict within her. In this way, she is a specific mix of tsundere for Touma and yandere for Yakumaru (which also concerns Touma). I imagine Touma and Naru would have a forwards backwards, teasing relationship, and they could have sex without having a child.
Seike- Honestly, Seike is just vibing. He adapted and is doing fine in the new place, although he dislikes Amazora after that punch to the balls.
We are getting close to the completion of future phase's new generation. It's almost done in fact. In this chapter we have the names of: Kamijou Chinatsu (daughter of Gokusai Rikuri, following the tradition of natural names in Gokusai family, her name means "Thusand Summers"), Kamijou Misama (son of Kuroko, named after surname 'Misaka') Kamijou Kumone (son of Konori Mii, name derived from 'kumo', spider, after name of Konori's former gang.), Kamijou Densetsu, shortened to Setsu (daughter of Saten and Touma, with the best and worst from both of her parents. Her name comes from the word 'legend') Kamijou Walpurgis, shortened to Wal (son of Aradia, and being named after Walpurgis Night, the greastest witch sabbat in Europe) and Kamijou Junya (who, through rather complicated web of relationships, is a child of Touma and Iruka. He has one of the hardest situations because of his mother complicated feelings and the fact that he was basically born out of incident. There is also Yakumaru's child, Serina (name made from parts of her teammate names, Se-Seike, Ri-Rita, Na-Naru). I think this might be it for New Generation.
If you are curious about those youngest members of Kamijou family (one of the last to join) be sure the check here in a few days. I will upload the bios by then.
Also, for the interested...
A. Personalities of Touma's kids as songs
Kenjou (daughter of Kanzaki)- What doesn't kill you makes you stronger by Kelly Clarkson
Shishi (d. of Itsuwa)- Face up by Lights
Aoife (d. of Bayloupe)- 俺、ツインテールになりますby Yasuharu Takanashi
Parvati (d. of Sozty) - Return of the hero by Soundmopi
Miya (d. of Kongou) - I am a lady by Meghan Tainor
Tomoya (son of Kongou)- I wear your grandad clothes by Macklemore& Ryan Lewis
Tsubasa (s. of Maidono) - Wings by Thomas Bergersen
Sei-chan (d. of Himegami)- Introvert song by Vica Hernandez
Mizumi (d. of Wannai) - It tells a story by Two steps from hell
Hayate (s. of Awatsuki) - I'm still here from Treasure Planet
Etain (d. of Lancis) - How to be a heartbreaker by Marina & Diamonds
Rhain (s. of Floris) - Try Everything by Shakira
Elizabeth (d. of Birdway) - Sassy by Kat Graham
Mary (d. of Birdway)- Remember not to forget by Audiomachine
Sena (d. of Nephthys)- Still Dream by Alexandre Desplat
Shimitsu (d. of Mugino)-Jupiter by Gustav Holst
Chousuke (s. of Youen) - This is the moment from Jekyll&Hyde Musical
Leo (s. of Rimea)- Rule Britannia
Kaira (d. of Carissa)- Kings and Queens by Ava Max
Haruto (s. of Kaibi) - Shido Funk by Go Sakabe
Kanari (d. of Ayu) - Applause by Lady Gaga
Takami (s. of Mikoto) - Reviver by My First Story
Tannia (d. of Lessar)- Wish by Yuna Ito
Setsu (d. of Saten)- Part of me by Katy Perry
Kaizumi (s. of Kumokawa) - Be Prepared from Lion King
Wal (s. of Aradia)- Out there from Hunchback of Notre Dame
Kumone (s. of Konori)- Gangsta's paradise
Angelo (s. of Agnese)- Take me to church by Hozier
Misama (s. of Kuroko)- Riding the light by Really Slow Motion
Chinatsu (d. of Rikuri)- Reaching by Audiomachine
B. (Some) works and positions of adults in future phase
Kamijou Touma- Househusband/ Private Detective
Index- Archbishop (succeeded Dion)
Misaka- Doctor, helping patients with dystrophia.
Shokuhou- Businesswoman and mental therapist
Kanzaki- Still a High Priestess
Itsuwa- Bento shop/sweet shop owner
Kumokawa- Main Secretary of the Chairman and General Director of Administration.
Ayu- Owner of the clinic specializing in $uicide prevention
Youen- Biochemist and pathologist.
Kaai- Director of Academy City's Department of Waste and Purification.
Kongou- Bussineswoman, model, aviation magnate.
Mugino- Fashion critique
Takitsubo- AIM field researcher
Kinuhata- Movie reviewer
Sotzy- Indologist, archeologist
Shutaura- Bodyguard, agent of secret service, occasional singer
Maidono- Director of the Academy City's Engineering Department.
Hasako- Japan's National Landscape Architect
Kaibi- Politician, therapist.
Amazora- Freelancer, various jobs.
Rikuri- Chemist, manufacturer of healthy products jointly with Fukiyose
Fukiyose- Athlete, Health Product distributor alongside Rikuri
Himegami- An author on self-worth and motivational speaker.
