Do remind me; have I not done the poltergeist arc already?
- BP4L (November 18th, 2024).
As it appears, I already have. Boy, have I done fucked up.
- BP4L (November 24th, 2024).
Anyways, I had just realized that I mixed Poltergeist Arc and Level Upper Arc. But not to worry! I'll be taking my chances with this.
But now that I think about it, it just feels wrong to skip it back then for convenience's sake. So I'll be doing it this time around.
Anyways, here's the Level Upper Arc, compressed into a single chapter worth of 8,800 words!
July 11th wasn't that memorable for people; the sun was still shining through with its bright light as ever, birds still chirping, trees still swaying in the wind. There were no events going on, no particular celebration.
Average was the word that describes everything perfectly; a perfectly ordinary day that held no significance to the world. Even if it was a bit too warm for some people's tastes, the day went by just as any other would.
Friends spent the day together, couples enjoyed their time together, and families had picnics in the park. The world went on, oblivious to the tiny changes and struggles taking place within each individual life. The mall in particular was still as bustling as ever, full of people looking for entertainment or just wanting to kill some time.
There was a group of teenagers hanging out by the fountain, laughing and joking with each other, and a small group of children were running around, chasing each other and shrieking with laughter. An elderly couple sat on a bench, watching the world go by, holding hands as they shared stories and memories.
The atmosphere surrounding the district within Academy City was imbued with an air of calm determination; a sense that the people living here knew what they wanted out of life and were willing to work hard to achieve it. It was the feeling of possibility, of endless potential, that drew so many to this place. Even those who didn't belong here found themselves getting caught up in the energy of it all.
Until something robbed them of it. Until they were taken from that place, plucked out of the world like a fly on a web.
A loud blast of explosion, jolting the people out of their daydreams. It was sudden and unexpected, as if someone had decided that the world was not meant to be this peaceful for too long. The source of the explosion was impossible to tell; it could have been an accident, or perhaps it was intentional. But whatever the cause, it had left a dark stain on the otherwise bright and cheery day.
Panic spread like wildfire, people screaming and running in every direction. The group of teenagers by the fountain scattered, some looking for an exit, others simply trying to find a place to hide. The children playing tag stopped in their tracks, their little faces etched with confusion and fear. The elderly couple clutched each other tighter, their gazes fixed on the source of the explosion.
Sirens blared in the distance, signalling the arrival of emergency services. Judgement Enforcers helped evacuate the people from the mall, panic stricken, and hurried to leave the area. While Anti-Skills, Academy City's policing force, were dispatched to investigate the cause of the explosion.
A portion of the mall was particularly badly damaged; the windows had been blown out, debris littered the floor, and smoke began to rise from the rubble. The sources were unknown; surveillance cameras showed no possible explanation, and eyewitnesses couldn't quite remember what had happened before the explosion. The only thing they knew for sure was that everything had gone horribly wrong in a matter of seconds.
No suspect, no motive, no explanation. The authorities were left scratching their heads, unable to make sense of the sudden and inexplicable attack. As they sifted through the evidence and interviewed witnesses, a sense of unease began to spread throughout Academy City. Something was very wrong, and no one quite knew what it was.
And this seems to give the perpetrator more and more reason, as the tragedy of July 11th repeats itself on the next day. And then the day after. The more explosions occurred, the more chaotic the situation became. People began to fear for their safety, constantly looking over their shoulders and wondering when the next attack would come.
The authorities continued their investigation, but they were no closer to finding the culprit. At least until July 14th, when the perpetrator made a mistake. Their bomb didn't have enough power.
"Reports had it that it was set on a bush," Konori Mii was quiet for a second, reading off the pile of case files. "It was just several feet away from a crowd. The bomb went off, but didn't have the necessary power to cause any casualties. However, it did leave behind a few pieces of evidence. Something that Anti-Skills were able to pick up and analyse." The head of branch office 177 paused, seemingly deep in thought.
Kuroko shrunk deep into her scarf; which was still something that she had to get used to, as it was unusual for someone to wear a scarf in the middle of summer. She shifted uncomfortably, trying to hide a yawn behind her hand. She'd been up all night working on some reports, not to mention, homeworks, and the last thing she wanted to do now was another meeting.
"Let me guess, the trail led to this person right here?" Uiharu's voice sounded a bit too eager. It was easy to tell she was excited about this new case. The look in her eyes reminded Kuroko of a puppy eager to go on a walk.
Konori raised an eyebrow, looking at Uiharu with amusement. "Well, that's certainly one way to put it." The older girl then set down the files and cleared her throat. "Anti-Skill are... say, still unsure of exactly who the person behind the attacks is. But we know for a fact that the targets were Judgement officers. On or off-duty."
Kuroko frowned, not entirely surprised by the information. It wouldn't be the first time someone had targeted Judgement. There were always going to be people who didn't like the fact that the organisation existed, or those who simply held grudges against them. Still, it was worrisome that they had yet to apprehend the perpetrator.
"Our primary suspect so far," Konori Mii pulled out a single piece of paper from her file, presenting it to people before her. "is a Level 4, Kushiro Katabira. The data we've picked up so far all leads up to her and her only."
Kuroko leaned forward, her interest piqued. Several others, including Uiharu, seemed to do the same. They all grumble at the sight of the picture, showcasing a girl with a sailor school uniform. She looked ordinary enough, with the exception of the Sanpaku eyes, which appears to be her most striking features.
"Shall we go get her then?" One of the officers asked, somewhat annoyed. Kushiro didn't look like the strongest of opponents, but one never knew who had what connections and abilities. It was best to approach this situation with caution.
"No, you will not." Konori's answer was firm, sending a shockwave of surprise inside the meeting room. The older girl took off her glasses, cleaned them and put them back on. "The girl has been in a coma for the past 8 days. Although she was a suspect, she is currently a person of interest. The bomb did not leave enough evidence for a solid conviction. And we cannot just arrest someone who is in a coma. That would be unethical, to say the least."
Everyone listened to Konori, understanding her point. "Then what should we do? Just let her go?"
Konori shook her head. "No, we cannot do that. Not yet. But we can monitor her. And in the meantime, we will continue our investigation. There must be a reason behind these attacks. Something that ties it all together."
"What about the other evidence? The pieces of the bomb?"
"There's no bomb. It's an esper," The older girl once again looks through the pile of documents. "Satellite readings showcased a massive acceleration of graviton particles whenever the explosions happened."
She then looked up at her peers, most of which are barely preteens. Living in a city where 80% of its inhabitants are under the age of eighteen, one would think people would be more understanding of this. But no, everyone was still wary of Espers, even though they were either one, or associated with one. It was just human nature to fear what you don't understand.
It was a tragic irony that the only ones who could truly help the people were the ones who scared them the most.
There was a Googol amount of thoughts in this world, but only a Grape amount of understanding. Uiharu sighed inwardly. She knew how they felt. Once upon a time, she too feared those with abilities beyond what she could comprehend. But experience and time had taught her otherwise. They were just like anyone else, only a little different.
"Ne, Kuroko," Kuroko looked up at her friend and teammate. The expression on the younger girl's face wasn't exactly comforting, but Uiharu didn't seem to be any better.
They were both exhausted. Investigations have been running on a daily basis, not to mention the paperwork, briefings, and whatnots. It was starting to take a toll on them, and they knew it. Any more of this and they two of them might get burnouts from exhaustion. It was just a matter of time. But neither of them were willing to give up just yet. Not when they were this close. Not when the safety of their home was on the line.
But of course, a little rest wouldn't hurt either.
"There's this new place I want to see at the mall tomorrow. Wanna come?" The short haired girl did her best to inject even an ounce of energy into her voice. It didn't quite work, as the girl only shook her head. Her twin tail flopped listlessly behind her.
"I need sleep. A lot of it," Kuroko even held in a yawn, but it escaped nonetheless, making her appear a little more tired than she already was. "How about you get some rest too, Uiharu? We can check it out some other time."
Uiharu stared at her for a second, blinking several times before bursting into a giggling fit; her voice sounding slightly hoarse from fatigue. "Kuroko san, you," she managed, waving her hand dismissively. "You're starting to sound a lot like Hirano, you know?" Uiharu couldn't help but hold the side of her stomach as she laughed, a smile spreading across her face.
The twin tailed girl's face slowly turned into the colour of her hair; peach pink and embarrassed, clearly not amused. "Shut up," she murmured, shrinking deeper into her scarf. But it wasn't enough, as it only concealed her mouth, she had to pull it up to cover the rest of her face.
"Your ears are turning pink!" Uiharu points out. Kuroko's ears twitched at her statement. She grumbled beneath the cover, voice muffled from the cover.
"It's not!" The girl's tone was slightly defensive, as if she was trying to convince herself as much as Uiharu. Uiharu giggled some more at the ridiculous reaction from Kuroko. It was kind of cute, actually. This was the first time the girl had ever been this flustered before, which made Uiharu wonder.
They've been working together for so long now, had she really never seen this side of Kuroko? Or was she just not paying close enough attention? There were still a lot of things she didn't know about this girl, even though they've been friends since 1st grade in elementary school.
Whilst her internal monologue continued, Uiharu took the time to study Kuroko properly. Uiharu took note of Kuroko's features. Her long, pale limbs contrasted sharply against her peach hair. Even now, when she was trying to hide her face, Uiharu could still see the pale pink of her earlobes, and the softness of her features. She sure has changed. How long has it been since they first met? 5 years now. The girl has changed.
Hirano sure rubbed a whole lot of his old-self onto this new Kuroko; the once cheerful, hyper and outgoing girl had been replaced by someone who was more quiet and serious. But beneath that, Uiharu could still sense the same spark that once defined her friend. The spark of curiosity and determination.
Kuroko grumbled, finally deciding to lower her scarf back down. Her ears were still pink, however. Even while frowning, pouting, the girl still looked more cute than the tough, elegant image she was trying to project. She gave Uiharu a half-hearted glare, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. Uiharu grinned. Kuroko looked like she was about to say something, but then sighed and looked away, finally giving in.
"Fine, I'll go with you," she mumbled, rubbing the back of her head.
Uiharu nodded, giving the girl another grin before hugging her tightly. Kuroko didn't quite seem to mind, patting her friend's back softly in return. "I'll see if I can get Hirano to come too." Although Uiharu has no ill motivations nor intentions behind that sentence, Kuroko still shot her a glare. Apparently she could see through that crown of flowers of hers. "What? I just thought that he might be interested."
"... Not you too, Uiharu." Kuroko's reaction was not unanticipated. "How many times do I have to tell everyone that I have no interest in dating him? Besides, I'm not interested in dating anyone! Can't you just stop bringing him up every chance you get? You guys are just forcing it to me at this point!" She sighed, running a hand through her hair.
Uiharu tilted her head, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Are you not interested or do you think he's not interested?"
Kuroko huffed, giving Uiharu a look of disbelief. "Don't be dense. I think I know how I feel about my own feelings."
The taller girl grinned. "Then I guess you're not really interested in him. Otherwise, you would have at least thought he might be interested." She paused for a moment, considering Kuroko's reaction to her words.
Kuroko blinked, taken aback by Uiharu's rather astute observation. "Well, I... I don't know," she mumbled, feeling slightly unsettled by the idea. "I just thought that he... never mind."
Uiharu leaned in. The girl wasn't really that much of a matchmaker, but when it comes to the two of her friends, Uiharu couldn't help but be intrigued. "You can tell me, you know." It was obvious that Kuroko was struggling to find the words, her expression twisting into something she couldn't quite describe. She hesitated for a moment before speaking up.
"You know how he is," Kuroko began. "He's got too much trouble going on that I doubt he'd even consider dating anyone." Her expression softened into something akin to pity as she thought about it. Uiharu remained silent, allowing Kuroko to process her thoughts. "We've lost contact twice and everytime we find him, he's in a much worse state. He's still recovering from everything that's happened to him." The twin tailed girl fell silent again, her gaze drifting off into the distance. "I just don't want to add to his troubles, that's all."
Uiharu considered Kuroko's words carefully. She couldn't deny that the guy had been through a lot. Perhaps more than enough to last a lifetime, maybe even more.
Uiharu slowly reached over and gently patted Kuroko's shoulder, her expression understanding and sympathetic. "It's a lot to deal with," she agreed. "But maybe... maybe he doesn't see it that way. Or maybe he just doesn't want to bother anyone else with his problems." She paused, thinking about it some more. "Either way, you never know unless you talk to him about it."
Kuroko scoffed. "I've tried. And all I'm left with is nothing but having to wonder where he went for 2 years."
Uiharu nodded, understanding where Kuroko was coming from. "Yeah, I can see that. But maybe... if you just... I don't know, tell him how you feel, or something. You never know what might happen. You might be surprised."
"I never said I feel anything for him," Kuroko countered, still frowning slightly.
"Maybe not romantically, but... I mean, he's your friend, right? You care about him?" Uiharu asked.
Kuroko bit her lip, thinking about it. She knew that deep down she did care about him, but... did that mean she was interested in him romantically? She didn't know. She didn't think so. Romance and platonic bonds are very different things, after all. The fact that she cared for him as a friend didn't necessarily mean that she wanted something more.
But she more often than not finds herself at a loss for words, wanting nothing but just to see him happy again. And she couldn't deny that she was jealous whenever she saw someone else seem to bring a smile to his face. When Uiharu and Ruiko knew something about him that she didn't, it felt like his attention had drifted away from her. It made her feel... alone. Isolated. And she hated that feeling.
Even several days back, when they visited his house, out of everyone, only Kuroko didn't exchange a single word with him. But their eyes locked for no more than several seconds, and Kuroko knew. She could see it in his eyes, the same eyes that she knew so well. They spoke volumes without saying a word.
The connection they shared, even if it wasn't romantic... It meant something. It meant that they understood each other, that they could be themselves around each other. And that alone was something special.
Perhaps... Perhaps she did feel something for him. Something more than friendship, but not quite romance. Perhaps the two of them needed to sit down and talk, really talk. To sort through their feelings and understand what they were truly thinking. There was no harm in trying, after all. It might just help them both move forward and find some sort of peace.
She didn't want to believe that she was interested in him romantically, but at the same time, she couldn't deny that there was something there. Something deep, something more than just friendship. She didn't want to admit it to herself, let alone to anyone else. But maybe... maybe it was time to face that truth and find out what it meant.
Kuroko stayed silent for a moment, deep in thought. She couldn't help but feel a slight blush creeping up her cheeks as she considered the possibility that she did have feelings for Hirano. It was a disconcerting thought, to say the least. Yet, at the same time, she couldn't deny the truth that lay beneath those feelings.
"I'll... tell him."
Nearly 15 years of age, with the last 5 he had spent the majority of it being on the outside world. And of those 15 years, the one and only thing that he could not bring himself to enjoy doing, or at least get the hang of, is something as simple as accompanying, be it a friend, a stranger or even a family member, out on a shopping trip.
Groceries, clothings, accessories. You name it. Clothings, especially. Yes, especially those troublesome articles. It was like his shopping companions just wouldn't let him get it right, wouldn't let him pick something to his liking. And when he did, they'd just... well, they'd just shoot him down, or laugh it off. So, it was just easier to avoid shopping, to never have to deal with that humiliation, that feeling of... inadequacy.
He should've gotten past it now, in all honesty. To still hate shopping in this day and age, at his age... It was pathetic, really. And yet there he was, standing outside the women's clothing section of the department store, staring blankly at the rows upon rows of racks, feeling more and more inadequate with every passing second.
The tugging at the hem of his shirt caught his attention. He looked down to find that familiar, innocent looking face staring back into the red orb that is his pupils. The ahoge atop of her head, a piece of brown yarn that seemed to defy gravity itself, swished back and forth as she tilted her head to the side. She was bobbing up and down, her little feet moving in tiny little circles as if impatient. Her bright, innocent eyes seemed to plead with him.
Hirano sighed. "What is it this time, kid?" He asked, kneeling down towards her level and brushed aside a strand of messy brown hair from her face. She giggled and pointed at another store behind them. It was a convenience store of some sort. Slightly larger than the usual, but definitely a regular store.
"I want ice cream! Says Misaka as Misaka's mouth waters from her want."
Hirano knocked the girl's forehead, grumbling as he stood back up. "You just had one. If you eat too much you'll get fat, you know?"
"But it's sooooo good~" Misaka whined, tugging at his shirt. "Please, Nii~? Says Misaka as she persuades him with the nickname." Her big, innocent eyes stared up at him, filled with pleading.
The white haired boy's face scrunched at the nickname. It felt weird, hearing her calling him that. It wasn't as though he was against it, no. He just finds it weird that anyone would refer to him as a brother, in such an intimate manner nonetheless?
In any case, he sighed. "Fine, we'll get ice cream." He muttered, leading her over to the convenience store.
As they stepped inside, the cool air brushed past them. He glanced around at the various items on display, noting that the place was well-stocked. He headed over to the frozen food section and started looking through the various ice cream flavours. The choices were overwhelming. Enough that the little girl beside him starts being overwhelmed. She stood there, shifting from one foot to another, looking from one flavour to another. Her tongue darted out and licked her lips as she wrung her hands. Eventually, she looked up at Hirano and hesitantly pointed at a particular flavour.
"That one, Nii?" She asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Hirano raised an eyebrow. "Mint?" Misaka nodded emphatically, clapping her hands together. He rubbed the bridge of his nose, smiling a little. "I guess all of you Misakas like mint ice cream?"
She giggled, wrapping her arms around his waist and hugging him tightly. "Misaka loves mint the mostest~! Misaka informs him happily!"
Hirano smiled down at her, ruffling her hair gently before putting the ice cream in the basket. "Well, alright then."
They found a spot to sit at the table near the window of the store. The view was nothing to write home about; it just showed the parking lot outside, a small patch of grass and a few trees in the distance. But it was better than nothing, I guess. Hirano set the basket down on the table and unpacked the ice cream from its container.
He didn't like sweet foods, but he'll eat some if offered. He handed the entire serving spoon to the girl and watched as she dug into the ice cream with gusto. The sound of her slurping filled the air, causing a few people nearby to glance over.
Aiho and Kikyou should probably be still inside the clothing store, looking for something for the girl so that she'll have something more than the dozen dresses that she owned. They insisted on getting her more. 'For the occasions', they reasoned. It seems that sitting on a Tuesday morning at home is considered an 'occasion' for them.
But well, he wouldn't complain to them anyway. They were probably getting some more for him to wear too, and he was starting to get tired of these shirts that he's had for years now. Most of them are hugging him too tightly now that it is beginning to irritate. He fidgets in his seat, eyeing the sleeves. He's been meaning to look for something more comfortable to wear. Something that fits his body better now that he's growing up. But shopping... ugh. He'd rather be doing anything else.
For a moment, he just idly watched the girl as she finished her ice cream, licking the spoon clean before handing it back to him. She let out a happy little sigh, a satisfied smile on her face. Misaka, for her part, had barely noticed Hirano's gaze. She was too busy enjoying the cold, creamy goodness that was her mint ice cream. It was everything she'd imagined it to be and more. As she finished the last spoonful, she licked her lips and let out a contented sigh.
The 10 year old girl turned to Hirano with a bright smile. "More?"
"No," he replied as he set the empty spoon on the table. "You've had enough. We should head back to the clothing store, see if those two found anything for you." He glanced at the store behind him. "They've been in there for a while."
The girl pouted, but nodded. "Okay." They passed by a trash bin, where he threw away the empty small ice cream container. Then they headed back to the clothing store, hand in hand. Hirano knew that the girl was disappointed, but he had to be firm. He had to teach her when to stop, even if it meant being mean sometimes. It was for her own good, after all. Which was how Aiho used to teach him things back then. As it should.
The inside of the store was much brighter than the convenience store they had been in earlier. Displays of colourful clothing hung from racks lining the walls, creating a vibrant and almost overwhelming visual experience. Aiho and Kikyou were waiting for them near a changing room, their faces a mix of relief and amusement.
"What happened to wanting to stay outside and look at things?" Aiho inquired with a half-smile, hand on her hip. She was wearing a frilly purple shirt and a blue skirt, which, while not her usual taste, looked decent on her.
Hirano shrugged, not answering as he started running his fingers along the fabrics displayed on a nearby rack. "I changed my mind," he mutters, half-heartedly looking through the clothes.
Kikyou nodded, apparently not bothered by his lack of enthusiasm. "Well, we found some stuff we thought you'd like," she said, handing him a small pile of clothes. Hirano glanced through them, not really showing any interest.
Aiho rolled her eyes and sighed. "Come on, when was the last time you'd gotten something for yourself? Try them on, you might actually like something." She prodded, gently nudging him towards the changing room.
Hirano frowned, reluctantly following Aiho's suggestion. He supposed he could humor them for a bit. "You too, kid, try these on." Kikyou placed, maybe around 4 folds of dresses towards the 10 year old brunette.
The girl smiled widely, taking the folds of clothes from Kikyou eagerly. "Thank you, Aunty!" She said happily, quickly making her way to the changing room. "I'll try them on right now!"
"The changing room there." The woman points with her thumb in a certain direction. The little girl swiftly heads there, the hem of her dress billowing behind her as she hurries. He followed suit, albeit at a much slower pace than her.
He was gonna shout to her, something about running on such a narrow path, but in the end didn't do so. Not because he couldn't give a damn, but because he wasn't given the chance to. The girl had already learned about it just now. The hard way.
The little girl crashed into someone, whose stature was much bigger than hers. Her vision was mostly covered by the piles of clothes that came falling on her, so she couldn't see what was in front of her, at least partially. She cried out in surprise and embarrassment, the red flush on her face making it even more obvious.
The girl had fallen on her back, the once pristinely folded clothes now a mess on the floor. The little girl, startled and embarrassed, looks up at the person she had crashed into. It was good that the person didn't look angry whatsoever. "You okay, little miss?"
Hirano had to restrain himself from shouting, not to the girl nor the person she'd crashed onto. Neither was at fault; Last Order isn't even a preteen. She's as innocent as the day she was born.
The girl squirmed out of the mess of clothes, her cheeks still flushed with embarrassment. She gulped and nodded, her brown eyes darting away from the person she had crashed into. "Y-yes. I'm fine. Says Misaka " Her voice was barely above a whisper.
The person she had crashed into chuckled softly. "Well, I hope you're not too hurt."
Hirano walked up to the two figures. He could recognize the voice, and especially the slight hint of non-Japanese accent in her voice. The familiar blond hair, cascading down lower than her shoulder. The soft, sapphire blue eyes. The bluish black beret and the wide forehead.
The name felt familiar on his tongue. A certain capitalist's name that he'd nearly forgotten. The familiar face that is now looking at him as he walked up towards the two. Surprise, perhaps shock, flickered across her features. But it was gone almost as quickly, replaced by a wide smile. "Hirano! I didn't expect to see you here." Her tone was light and teasing, though there was a hint of something more beneath the surface.
Hirano nodded in response, his gaze shifting briefly to the floor. "How have you been?" She asked yet again, still smiling warmly. It was always hard for him to believe that she was the same person who had once tried to trick him into giving her 300 yen.
With the little girl suddenly forgotten, Last Order just got up with an angry huff that was directed at him. She picked up the fallen articles of clothings and hit his side. He didn't exactly expect them, but they didn't hurt so it's fine. Then she stood back up, folding her arms and glaring at him. "Why didn't you help me? Says Misaka as Misaka angrily glares at him." she demanded, her eyes narrowing.
"Misaka?" Frenda, the blond girl, echoes. Hirano could feel himself sweating a little. How should he break the news to her? He didn't know. He'll just have to see how this plays out. "You know her?"
Last Order turned to Frenda. "Do you know Onee-sama? Asks Misaka in curious wonder."
The blond looked back at him. "Onee-sama?" She asks him back, an amused smile gracing her lips. He waved his hand dismissively.
"It's a long story." It was the only reply he could muster at the moment. The girl only giggled as he said that, her smile growing a bit wider. The girl had always been confused like that, always with the smile, with the cheerful demeanour, very quick with the change and the unpredictable reactions. Not that it's a bad thing, just something that he'd gotten used to over the years. It was like watching a movie play out before his eyes.
"It's so good to see you again." Hirano nodded slowly, trying to decide how to respond.
"It's good to see you too." His voice was rather soft, almost lacking in volume. What with the way they broke apart years ago, It still hurts to know that he'd been the cause of the rift forming between Frenda and Misaka.
"Yeah, I guess so." Frenda said nonchalantly, before turning her attention back to Hirano. "So, what brings you to this mall?" She asked, a sly grin playing on her lips. "Were you following me?" He just lifts the pile of clothing on his arm, earning an 'oh' from her.
She then giggled again. She does that alot. "I didn't take you for the type to enjoy clothes shopping."
"Neither did I." Hirano admitted with a hint of reluctance in his voice. "But the ladies insisted." He glanced over at Kikyou and Aiho, who were still discussing two shirts that the latter was holding. Two of which were blue of different shades. He still couldn't understand what's so different about Aquamarine and Cerulean. To him, they both look blue.
Now the blond is just laughing. "I forgot how cute you could be sometimes." She snorted. "And speaking of that, who's the little one?" Frenda asked, gesturing towards Last Order, who was now sitting on the floor, her legs folded under her, examining the clothes she'd spilled, ignoring the word she'd said just prior.
Hirano started but paused. The brunette looked up, looking at him, tilting her head. "Nii?" She understood the assignment.
He could feel his eyes twitch. Whether he liked it or not, it is the best cover for the current predicament. "She's... a niece."
"Oh really? She doesn't look anything like you." She teased.
"She's Aiho's niece."
"Is that so? Well, either way, she's cute. You two make a good pair." Frenda pats her head in a rather playful manner, flattening the ahoge atop of her head before springing back up when she took her hand off, surprising the blond but didn't say anything about it.
"Anyways, if you don't mind," He continued, "I need to try these things out." He gestured at the clothes on his arms. It's starting to sore from holding them for this long. "So, you mind if I do that?"
"Sure, yeah," The girl stepped aside. Before heading off however, she pulled out her phone, "Can we exchange contact info? I'd be really nice to hang out with you again sometime."
He nodded before fishing the rectangular object from his pocket. It was worn and aged. But still functioned properly. She took it from his hand and typed her number in. She hands him back his phone. "There you go. I'll give you a call later, alright?" Before he could respond, she's already walking away.
He glances down at the phone in his hand, looking at her name, now added into his phone contact. He's not sure how he felt about the encounter, or the realisation that she was here as well. It was strange and unexpected. They weren't exactly on the greatest of terms just years prior, but knowing that she was alright now... it was... something.
He looked at her name in his phone, before noticing an unread message from 8 minutes ago. It was from Uiharu.
Kuroko hadn't exactly been excited. The very prospect of seeing him again after days of no contact due to her work as a Judgement Enforcer, not to mention Uiharu's forceful albeit excited prodding into the very fields of her mentalscape, only made things even more anxious for the teenage girl.
She and several others were chatting right outside the seventh mist mall, with the exception of Kuroko, who was only there, standing quietly with her thoughts, her only companion. It was a habit Kuroko had gotten into. Sometimes, when things got too much, all she could do was shut herself away.
Just thinking about that made her sink deeper into her scarf. Uiharu was right; Hirano's rubbing too much of his old personality onto her. The once broody, quiet and grumpy guy had turned her into this person. And now, whenever she wanted to be alone or if things got to be too much, people would think that it was because of him. And then they'd bring up something about her and feelings towards that damned white haired boy again.
Why does that always get the priority seat in their minds? She asked herself.
It was only Uiharu's efforts yesterday that she'd come to accept it. Or at least acknowledge the possibility. She knew what she had wasn't romantic. But she also knew that whatever it is isn't friendship either. That left her with an unsettling feeling in the pit of her stomach. Like a sourness that she couldn't quite get rid of no matter how much she brushed her teeth. She was gonna talk to him about that. Uiharu was smart enough to point it out.
At this point, had Uiharu not been her best friend, she would've kicked the girl with a foot for being so nosy.
So she'd come here, to this mall, hoping to bump into him.
But the more she thought about it, the more she felt nervous. What if he won't understand? What if it's just not meant to be that way? The doubts started creeping in, like a swarm of ants coming out of nowhere to feast on her resolve. But she had to try. She had to talk to him. It was the only way she could get rid of this uneasy feeling that has been gnawing at her insides for a while now.
He arrived later on after a 10 minute that somehow felt a whole lot quicker than that. He had Touma following slightly on his trails. They appear to be talking. His gaze swept over the familiar group before locking onto the twin tailed girl. She was standing somewhat apart from everyone else, her fingers fidgeting with the fabric of her skirt, a light blush touching her cheeks.
Kuroko saw his gaze land on her and her heart skipped a beat. It was both unsettling and comforting, all at the same time. She knew that she should go to him, that she should say something, anything, but she found herself frozen in place. Her mind raced, trying to think of what to say. But nothing came to her.
The silence stretched between them, uncomfortable and heavy, lightened only by the quick greetings made between him and everyone else. She swallowed hard and forced herself to take a step forward. The spiky haired guy appears to have noticed already, moved quickly behind the rest of the group.
Her heart was hammering in her chest, and she could feel her cheeks burning with embarrassment. He looked at her with those familiar, slightly casually analysing eyes, and she wanted nothing more than to disappear right then and there. In the end she just nodded before mumbling, "Hi..."
She shifted her weight uncomfortably from one foot to another, biting her lip as she tried to gather her thoughts. Of course, having known her since she was but a mere innocent 7 year old, he could quite easily tell that there was something bothering her.
He tilted his head slightly, watching her carefully. "Something on your mind?" He asked gently. There was genuine concern in his tone.
Kuroko shook her head, trying to keep her gaze from drifting down to the ground. She hated looking weak and pathetic, but she just couldn't help it. Not now. Not with him here. "It's... nothing important," she mumbled, hoping that her voice didn't betray her.
She could feel Uiharu poking her on the back. Kuroko looked back to find the girl giving her an encouraging smile. She couldn't tell if it was annoying or cute. Which probably was a mistake, however, since the guy was quite literally just a step away from her.
It didn't take a genius to see that the two girls had some scheme up their sleeves. And indeed, the rest of their friends felt left out of the matters. The ravenette and the brunette, Misaka and Ruiko, were just about to ask them regarding what was going on. Touma poked at Misaki's back. He didn't really have to do that. She knows already. "Ne, Hirano, how's your niece?"
"She's doing just fine. Thanks for asking." he'd replied, looking at Uiharu slightly askance. The question was obviously a distraction, but he didn't seem to mind too much. A slight smile touched her lips, and she put a hand on his arm.
"Ah," Misaki said, nodding slowly. She glanced at the other three briefly before turning her attention back to him. "By the way, is that a new shirt you've got on? I didn't think you'd be one to really get into fashion." The blond gave him a grin, her expression slightly mischievous.
He looked down on himself, glancing at the grey, short-sleeved shirt he was wearing. It was true that he never paid much attention to fashion, preferring comfort over style. Kuroko could tell that it was from his guardians. "Those two women wouldn't let me leave without something proper on."
They'd start laughing, because a 15 year old like him, especially one of his status; the strongest Level 5 in all of Academy City, still being dressed by two middle aged women... It was just too hilarious. He couldn't help but smile slightly. It was funny in its own way.
"But they did manage to convince you to wear it," Ruiko pointed out, a bright smile playing on her lips. There was no malice in her tone, only a hint of amusement. "You've been a good boy."
His lips twitch up in a lopsided smirk. "I didn't have much of a choice," he retorted playfully. "They kept nagging me until I finally gave in." The smile on his face broadened, showing his teeth as he chuckled.
Kuroko could feel herself relax a bit at this side of him. He was different now; not as standoffish as before. Maybe that was for the better. He was beginning to show his carefree side. It was nice to be around him. It made her feel like maybe... maybe they could be more than just friends. Maybe there was something there. Something real.
The conversation went on, and eventually they all decided to go to the mall together. As they walked side by side, Kuroko found it easier to inch closer to him, their shoulders occasionally touching. The warmth from his body was comforting, and she felt safe knowing that he was there. She wanted to tell him everything, to get everything off her chest. But somehow, the words wouldn't come out. Instead, she settled for the occasional glance in his direction, trying to gauge his reaction.
The mall was as busy as ever, with people of all ages and backgrounds milling about. Even with the aftermath, and the quite possibly still continuing chain of bombings around the city, with the most being in this very district, the place didn't seem to be emptied. Maybe that was the strength of human will, the determination of people to not let fear rule their lives. Kuroko glanced at him and their shoulders. The contact was comforting. This was different from any ordinary feelings. There was more to it. It was warm, gentle, understanding, trusting... Kuroko wasn't sure what it was, but she wanted more of it.
The closest she could get to him is with this scarf that he'd given her. It'd been a while since then, yet his scent; a mix of bitter coffee and clean cotton, lingered. As they walked, she often found herself unconsciously sniffing the fabric. It was a comfort to her. She wondered if he'd notice. Probably not. He's too busy talking with the others.
Kuroko was grateful for the comfort the scarf provided, as well as the closeness to him. She could feel herself growing more and more comfortable in his presence, and she knew that she needed to tell him how she felt soon. She just didn't want to ruin the moment or push him away.
They continued walking through the mall, taking in the sights and sounds around them. For the 15 minutes they've spent inside, all they did was walk and talk. That was it. As they continued to walk, Kuroko found herself growing more and more brave. The closeness they shared, both physical and emotional, made her feel safe and protected. She knew that if she waited any longer, she might chicken out altogether. Taking a deep breath, she mustered up the courage to speak. "Hirano..." she began hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper.
Misaki, who has been the centre of the group for the exact amount of time spent inside, noticed this and points at a discount store to distract the others. "Oh, I've seen that! We should go in there and check it out." The blond dragged Misaka with her. Ruiko and Touma, who was more interested with whatever they had on sale, followed suit. Uiharu, wanting to give the moment for the two, just gave Kuroko a thumbs up before following the others.
This leaves him alone with her. Kuroko felt a knot form in her stomach. Her heart was hammering in her chest. She couldn't look at him. "Hirano..." she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper. She took another deep breath, trying to muster the courage to continue. "There's something I need to tell you." She glanced at him, then quickly away, not meeting his eyes.
She has his fullest attention now. He didn't say anything, just looking at her with an air of curiosity and expectation. It was enough to make her squirm slightly. She forced herself to meet his gaze, and then immediately looked away again, feeling uncomfortable under the intensity of his stare.
Taking a deep breath, she tried once more. "It's just that... I wanted to thank you for everything you've done. For always being there for me, even when I'm being stupid." Kuroko mentally kicked herself on the head. 'Stupid. That was too vague.'
The guy just blinked, not showing any kind of reactions that Kuroko was anticipating; be it anger, disgust, or happiness. "Oh? I wasn't aware that I did anything of significance." He says, keeping his tone casual.
Kuroko felt herself tense at his words. Right. She'd forgotten that the guy was a total nutcase when it comes to romance or anything related. Well, that's fine. She could try again. "No, not that. I mean, ever since we met... you've always been so nice to me. You've helped me out so much, and..." She trails off, her cheeks flushing. "I-I don't know how to say this..."
He smiled however, and it felt genuine. Too genuine, however, that she felt like she's been punched with the power of 1000 suns. "You don't have to thank me."
"Shut it," Kuroko blurted, as if she was out of breath from just his smile. "Don't try to be reasonable and just listen to me, okay?" She took another deep breath, feeling her heart race even faster in her chest. "S-senpai... you know..." she forced the words out, her throat feeling tight. "I... l-l-like you..."
He was silent for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, slowly, he tilted his head. He smiled. Kuroko's heart hammered in her chest, a fluttery sort of feeling that made it difficult to breathe. "Really?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper. He didn't sound surprised, just... curious.
She nodded, feeling a lump forming in her throat. "Y-yeah..." Her voice was hoarse, barely more than a whisper. "I do."
There was a brief pause. Kuroko felt like pulling her hair, waiting for his response. She didn't notice his hand raising and landing on top of her head. "Thanks." The sincerity in his voice. God, her heart can't take much more.
Kuroko's eyes widened. "S-so... you... felt it too...?"
He blinked slowly, his gaze not wavering from hers. He shrugged. His voice was so soft, she had to strain to hear it. He smiled, and it reached his eyes, making them crinkle at the corners. "You're my friend. How could I not like you?"
...
'Huh?' Kuroko's heart skipped a beat. She stammered, not quite sure how to react to his words. She felt a mixture of relief and disappointment wash over her. Relief that he felt something for her, disappointment that it wasn't what she had hoped for.
'Not as a friend, idiot.' she wanted to add. She wanted to say that she likes him as a boy, someone that she imagined herself being together with in the future. Someone that she wanted to spend her time with, maybe even her life.
But the genuine look of delight that he has, the chuckles that sounded to be too real. She couldn't bring herself to ruin it. This was a look she'd been trying to bring out. And she did it. Just not with the feelings she'd just poured bare.
She felt something prick her eyes, and realised she was about to cry. But she wouldn't. Not here, not now. She blinked back the tears, and when she looked at him again, she managed a small smile. "Well, good." Her voice was still quiet, but steady. "So... best friends?"
He smiled back at her. Nodding. She couldn't hear him when he mentioned something before walking towards the direction where the others had been heading before. She could feel her fingers on his sleeve slowly loosening its grip. In the end, her hold of him snaps.
Kuroko just stood there, wondering what had just happened.
Did she just accept being his best friend? Or was there something more she should have pushed for? The feeling of disappointment was still there.
She was prepared, convinced, even, that she wasn't trying to pursue any relationship with anyone. But the rejection hurts. Even more so when he didn't even realise that she had just told him how she felt. It stung. It really stung. She turned her back on him, trying to hide her tears, but failing. They spilled down her cheeks, tracing the outline of her jaw and neck. Kuroko bit her lip, forcing back a sob. She couldn't do this now. Not in public. Not when everyone would just think she was some clingy, pathetic person.
She took a deep breath, composing herself as best as she could, but the stinging pain in her heart didn't seem to go away. She felt foolish, exposed, and more than a little bit hurt. But what choice did she have? She had to move on, pretend like nothing had happened, and find a way to live with this ache in her chest.
Kuroko took a step forward, then another, trying to seek that familiar comfort of being close to him. But it wasn't there. She could feel a distance between them, like there was an invisible wall that had been erected. It made her ache even more.
Suddenly, she felt something tug at the hem of her shirt. She turned to find a little girl, smiling brightly with a plush toy in her hand. The girl handed her the plush, and said, "Here you go, miss!" She had wide, innocent eyes that held a hint of curiosity. Kuroko took the plush, her fingers brushing against the child's. The child's smile widened, and she giggled.
She eyed the plushie.
For a moment, she just stared at its eye. The small, round plastic coloured black that is its iris. She tried to recall what had made her so special, so irresistible. It was nothing, really. Just a piece of cloth stuffed with something. It didn't have any moving parts or flashy lights.
But right now, she just wants to hold onto something. So she brought it close to her chest, hugging it tight. The girl's innocent smile stayed on her face, and for a moment, Kuroko wondered if the girl had known what she had been feeling. If she could sense the ache in her heart. She hoped not. She didn't want to burden anyone else with her troubles.
With the plush firmly in her grasp, the girl kneeled down, keeping the small, furry creature close to her chest. Her gaze was fixed on it, and it almost seemed as if she was finding comfort in its presence. It was odd, really, how something so small and insignificant could mean so much to someone. Perhaps that was the magic of connection. Of finding a piece of yourself in something, or someone, else.
Just as unexpected as the plush had come to her, Kuroko hadn't expected the thing to suddenly heat up. And at the corner of her eyes, she could see a very conspicuous man; hair messy with a malicious grin on his face. When he noticed that she'd seen her, he hid behind a pillar.
The plush heats up enough that Kuroko knew something was wrong.
In a quick movement, she threw the thing away, grateful that the place was rather vacant before grabbing the child by the wrist.
Shirai Kuroko, a Level 4 Esper with the exceptionally rare ability to teleport herself, disappeared and then reappeared further away from the plush.
Not even 3 seconds later. It exploded into a massive fireball.
New chapter next Monday!