Painted Prison Chronicles

by Sparity Ikari

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

52. Chapter 52

PAINTED PRISON CHRONICLES

CHAPTER 52

RECOVERY ARC: BODY

Hello everyone, it's nice to be here for you again. Wow... it's been a while wasn't it? Even though I really try to work efficiently, sometimes there are just some real world hurdles that are not so easy to overcome, such as projects and exams. Some of the time in the previous weeks in which I planned to write had to be repurposed for other things, mainly studying and working, but oh well, at least we are here now, and as always, I am very happy to share new content with you.

We are properly entering so-called Recovery Arc, the material concerning Touma's healing after his coma on few different aspects and with various different interactions, that will span till chapter 54. I am very excited for this part, because it is one of the greatest showcases of Touma's connections to others, and some of the romance we've been building in this story. Well, and the fact the next chapter might be one of the most introspective and psychologically deep in this story (I hope for it to be). Chapters in this arc are named after Body- Mind- Soul triad. We start on the physical level with the Body, which does not mean there won't be emotional connection here, on the contrary, it is one of the key importance.

From technical viewpoint, I breached the personal milestone which is breaking the Proust Limit (the length of world longest classical novel, Remembrance of Things Past, with 1 267 069 words) which is symbolic, but important step on this journey. With the story now fully entering its 6th ten of chapters, I think it's safe to say that there are pretty exciting things to expect in the future, if all goes well. Aside from recovery arc and upcoming Saten vs Chimera wife clash, next we have the Birdway Arc, which will utilize a lot of UK characters, with emphasis on Birdway and Royal family, aside Touma, Gokusai sisters, Index and Othinus of course, with highly possible addition of New Light in the mix, and few surprises when it comes to cast and events.

As a philosopher and psychologist, the following chapters of Touma's recovery are opportunity to not only perfect my writing skills, but also to put my knowledge, which I worked hard to acquire into exploring the intricacies of Touma in his relationships and memories, to pay homage to someone who I consider incredible character. While in some respects I am not like Touma, he serves as a great source of inspiration for me, and I hope I can convey my respect to his psyche and bonds in all that follows.

Every year is slightly different when it comes to environment in which I write. The scene from 2 years ago, when I began to write this story, was completely different than the one I find myself in right now. As I will experience heavy impact of duties and obligations in my real life studies in this semester, sometimes it will be harder to write consistently. Please know that this story, as a passion project of mine, is always something I want to eagerly continue. However, bear in mind the possibility that it might take me over a month (more or less like it was now) for new chapter to be published. I sincerely hope to do it faster, since I want to share it with you as quickly as I can. But if you would be so kind and had patience, I guarantee it would be the best. Sometimes, it is better to write at reasonable, even if slightly slower pace, and avoid burn out.

That being said, this story has a lot to tell. And I hope you will be here to see it, because as always, I will do my utmost to give you the best experience in reading that my writting skills can provide.

As per usual, I implore you to check out bottom text for more specific remarks. For now, let's do the Q&A session.

Xellos540: Your inputs into reviewing are incredible. I am waiting for you to catch up, and then I will take time responding to all of your reviews (they are already seen and read). I honestly thank you so much for your dedication and sticking with this story, alongside meticulously reviewing it.

5Had0wHand: Motoharu in trunks may not be something that is easy to imagine, but hey, it does serve its shock value!

FingFangFoom100: Oh, here is an explanation when it comes to Christmas story. Originally, I planned for each of its 3 chapters to release on different Christmas, to stay in the spirit of the season. While due to delays on chapter 50 of PPC, I prioritized finishing main story, and didn't make it with chapter 2 of Mistletoe on The Wind, I plan posting it on the next christmas, for sure.

It's nice that you love Railgun girls from First Year Arc, I got acquainted with them not so long ago, and fell in love too. And when it comes to Nephthys, yes, I admit, there is something Shekspearean about those scenes, which is nice, I love this kind of atmosphere

DarkMatter69: Yeah, you are telling me, it was a long journey, and it's not over yet! What else... Birdway family was showed, at least in this story, and it is partially good inkling to think about them in a mafia-esque way, but not fully. There are couple of twists I will not spoil here. You should definitely stay tuned for it ;)

Average Stuffy: I simply adored Hasekura when I got to read about her and I knew I need to make a route for her in some form of way, I just knew her chemistry with Touma will be interesting. Current chapter is dedicated primarily to K.I.S.S wholesomeness, and the next will be about more daunting mental endeavours. There is something touching about Index being such a key component in Touma's life that his very mind pulls itself back into being just for her and due to her.

KHVSFF: Some things are bound to change a bit, but I never planned any super drastic changes (before everyone getting one grade higher, or Helcalia joining Tokiwadai). Still, the upcoming chapters address some of the changes. The main idea is that after the timeskip chances for confessions increase, but so does the overall rivalry amongst the girls. Mugino is the fine example, as you will see. As for Railgun First Year characters, I only recently got to know them, so not to worry, in your time, you may re-read last chapter and everything may be more worthwhile then.

Without further delay, let's begin!

The morning came.

Touma was slowly brought back from the depths of sleep by a soft humming, accompanied by the pleasant warmness under his cheek.

He realized that Itsuwa was awake and hummed the melody while gently stroking his head, which was positioned on her tender lap once again.

Touma knew that interrupting her would only fluster her, so he remained silent.

Besides, the melody that Itsuwa was humming was very comforting. It reminded him of a wind gently passing through the leaves of the tree on warm summer day. Or the feeling of bliss when you were huddled in warmth and there was cold outside.

In other words, it was calming and soothing. It wasn't overly complex, and lacked words, but it touched him in some strange way. It made his mind go back, even if there was no hope of ever remembering his distant past.

After a while, Itsuwa's melody came to an end and she continued to gently caress him in silence.

Knowing that he would have to sooner or later inform her of his wakefulness, Touma spoke quietly:

"I didn't really hear you sing before. You have a really calming voice"

Itsuwa still jumped slightly, but quickly regained her bearings. She looked down at him with a slightly flushed face.

"Y-You are awake... y-you weren't really suppose to hear it..." she waved her hands and vigorously shook her head" I m-mean... you were meant to hear it, but in your sleep... I wasn't ready... but... thank you. I am glad you liked it..."

The last sentence came out as a shy squeak as Itsuwa lowered her head, with a small smile of joy despite her embarrassment.

"This felt... really nice. Thanks for that. Is this song special or something?"

"You... can say that. My mother sang this song to me when I was little. That's why I don't really remember the words anymore, but it is special to me... so I wanted to share it with you, too"

"Thanks..." Touma smiled, still a little dazed after his sleep" Your mom sounds like a very nice person"

Itsuwa nodded lightly, smiling as well

"Oh, she is. She is the one who taught me to cook and take care of house. She is a resolute yet kind person. I-I am sure that in due time you will meet her..."

"You bet I will. I have to thank her for raising you to be so wonderful..."

"Please stop, I feel like am going to burst in flames from how embarrassed I am..." the girl mumbled, covering her crimson face with one hand, while still keeping the other on Touma's head.

"Itsuwa-san, you seem to grossly underestimate how rare and beautiful it truly is to have a caring girl around who does not want to beat you to the pulp for every miniscule thing your misfortune causes" Touma nodded sagely.

A whimper came from Itsuwa, but she also nodded her own head.

After a while, they both looked up, through sunlight permeating the lush greenery.

"Itsuwa-san..." Touma voiced something that was on his mind ever since he woke up" I... honestly wouldn't expect that you would be the one to give a lap pillow to anyone? Because..."

"Because I am shy and prone to getting embarrassed?" Itsuwa completed" W-Well, as you can see, I am still not all out and about, it's all new to me, and maybe I will slow down a bit, who knows... but I had a lot of time to think about what is important... and I came to a conclusion that there is something far more important than my own insecurity. And that's your happiness"

"Huh?"

Itsuwa cleared her throat and began explaining herself in a calmer voice.

"Re... remember when you asked me if I loved you and I affirmed it? I had some time to think about why I couldn't tell you about it sooner... I fell in love with you some time ago after all... the reason, it appears, was the fact that I couldn't escape from the shadow of the Priestess. Neither of us held any malice towards each other, but my own perceived weakness exhausted and annoyed me. But we confronted each other's feelings, and learned that we both envied each other all that time. And... it was... a good wake up call..."

She clenched her fist and sighed.

"There were much more important things to consider, that made those doubts appear void... especially since you fell into that coma. Priestess will always be a source of awe and inspiration for me. But I won't allow her to blind me to the fact that you are source of those wonderful feelings I have..."

"So..." Touma shifted his head to look at Itsuwa's face.

He shivered from the look that was coming from under the double eyelids.

It was filled with kindness and care. Even if Itsuwa struggled not to avert them, each time she did look at him, those feelings were conveyed through simple eye contact.

Forcing himself to break free from the shivering feeling, he finished:

"...where do we go from here?"

Itsuwa smiled at that.

"You..." she gently poked his chest with her finger, and he noticed that there was a light pink, almost unnoticeable polished applied on her fingernails, amplifying the air of femininity" are to not do anything when it comes to us. As for me, I considered some things and came to a conclusion that my confession was unwarranted"

"Unwarranted?"

Touma did not know how down his voice had to sound, but Itsuwa giggled cutely at his disappointment.

He always had the ability to make her nervousness ease with how straightforward and endearingly clueless he could be.

"Oh, it's not because I reconsidered what I said before we were interrupted" she assured him, placing her hand on his" I still lo...lo... have feelings for you. But what I meant was... I decided that my confession has to be backed up. It is still ongoing, and will continue when I care for you"

"You don't have to prove anything though"

"I am not" she cut him off, with more resolute voice than before" You see, my language of... l-love... the way I express my feelings... is through acts for the benefit of one I care about... that is, you. So now, my actual confession commenced. And before you asked why... you saved so many people, helped so many stories carry on, touched so many hearts... this is more than enough. You are, despite every extraordinary thing you managed to achieve, only a human. And that's okay. It's one of the reasons I came to admire you. You still struggle despite your weaknesses and limitations, doing everything you possibly can just to help someone smile again. It is inspiring for those who ever doubted themselves, like me"

Touma slowly lifted himself up and looked at Itsuwa.

"You give me too much credit. I am just... trying my best"

Itsuwa embraced him, still stroking his head and continued speaking

"Yes, you do, but in the place where few to none would ever try. You are my hero. Not because of saving me, but for inspiring me to do my best in saving others myself. And the first person that I want to help is you. You need someone who really cares for you despite everything, someone who would nurture your best qualities just because you are here. Without the need to push you into something as quickly as the feelings are involved, giving you time to rest and reflect, without denying any sentiment on both sides. That's what we all agreed on. In fact..."

She looked beyond Touma.

He turned around and for the first time noticed Hasako slumbering nearby, resting against the tree. Her eyes were closed, showcasing her long lashes, as Hasako's chest steadily rose and fell. A lone butterfly landed on her head, spreading its wings in the patch of sunlight.

"Is she alright?"

"She is, she is just resting. She is really dedicating in taking the effort of healing you. She adjusts her environment every few hours or so, to make sure all the natural elements are adapted to your changing condition. She... she really loves you, you know. Maidono-san told me that she believes that she waited for you for decades and now is content with finding love with you. It is ought to be an envious sight"

"I-Itsuwa... that is..."

"And yet... I think I am beyond envy now. It will not help me in aiding you. And if I have to get into the rivalry later on, so be it. I would be honoured to have one with Hasako-san."

"It seems like you get along"

"Yes. She is like a big sister to all of us, so eloquent and wise. I have to thank you again. Albeit indirectly, you gave me wonderful friends, who came together with me due to our shared care for your wellbeing. We indeed got close. I dare say that I would miss how terrifically funny Saten-san is, or how much of a reliable friend Arisa-san can be. Hasako-san is someone I definitely strive to be... and while Rin-san can be difficult at times, she too has a heart in a good place. We stick together to see through that you are happy."

Touma felt his vision blur a little, as he choked up a whisper

"Itsuwa... I left everyone by committing to a selfish choice. I chose my principles over actual people who embody values that I fight for. I do not deserve this"

"Well, I disagree" the amakusan responded" You didn't leave us. Even if I was sad that you couldn't speak to us, I always hoped you will come back like you always do, despite all the odds. And how could I hold your actions against you? If anything, we... that is, me and K.I.S.S, our small group... we regret not being there for you. You sacrificed your safety in the name of something that makes you someone we... l-love. So please, don't speak of yourself like that. Also, I know that you are probably still worried about deserving happiness with the possibility of bringing about misfortune... so let me tell you something Hasako-san said to me in those past months"

She made a wide circle with her arm.

"This place... Hasako-san calls it a Sanctuary. It is such a beautiful day, with a calm weather and fluffy clouds on the sky. It is one of those days when it is peaceful and quiet, when you can sit under the tree for ages and be at rest with yourself. Even for a moment, you can have that. Hasako-san said that the fact that sun shines does not negate the thunderstorm. It will have to come sooner or later. And just like perfection is impossible to attain, just like sun cannot always be visible and yet is still there, behind the clouds, we can appreciate the moment of peace and bliss it brings because your Imagine Breaker can mess it up at any moment. Only through sadness we can appreciate joy... at least that's what I think. Maybe we can't stop misery... maybe we can't change the entire world. But maybe we don't have to. I think it applies to all of us, but I can say this certainly about myself... for me it's fine if I can change the world just enough to make us truly appreciate the moments of happiness we have together."

"But... you are talking about devoting yourself to someone else... I could never possibly ask for that..."

"It is not just taking. I know that when I need it, you will be there to aid you, because that's who you are. In time, the give or take will start to come naturally. And if you still think that you are selfish, well, then allow me to be brave and give you this care anyway"

With her body trembling slightly and yet moving forward with determination, Itsuwa closed her eyes and kissed Touma on the cheek.

In truth, she didn't do anything more, even if she kind of wanted to, because she didn't want to go overboard while Touma was still recovering.

The gentle kiss lasted for a moment, until she opened her eyes and noticed Hasako staring right at them.

Itsuwa squealed and fell back, with Touma slowly slumping down in the rather undignified fashion.

"Ha-Ha-Hasako-san?! You are awake?!"

"I just woke up... no need to panic... though I imagine you would rather see me still sleeping..."

"No of course not..."

"Relax, my dear, I know you have pure intentions. However..."

Hasako stretched out and looked at Touma.

"I think I will take it from here. You can accompany me if you want though"

While Hasako spoke it in a casual way, her kaleidoscopic eyes conveyed the sparks of friendly rivalry, and also drilled into Touma with intensity from under shade of the eyelashes.

Touma gulped, both from the nervousness and a mess the girls were making him into. Despite being fairly self-disciplined and principled for the boy his age, his self-control had limits.

The fact that Hasako could make him feel all of that by simply staring at him and raising an eyebrow spoke volumes of how sometimes less was more if one was gentle enough and had charm build over time. Well, that and the fact that the Beginning Child always had mesmerizing, attention-attracting eyes. The colour was impossible to fully discern, they could appear in many hues of varying warmth and intensity, just like many environments Hasako could bring forth. But she never failed to convey her feelings through those looks.

And the fact that she too needed to have a talk with him alone, when they will have a moment.

"Now, it's breakfast time." Hasako said, scooting closer to him" And I am going to feed you, since you are recovering patient in our care"

"R-Really? But I really can do that on my-"

"Mmmmmph..."

Touma gulped once again, as Hasako pouted with arms crossed.

"A-Alright, maybe just this time, I can be fed..."

He really didn't want to anger Hasako. She was so elegant and gentle, that it was hard to forget that she could display a cold fury, like an storm-driven sea, if pushed hard enough. She rarely directed her anger at him though.

She acted similar to Touma's mother Shiina in that regard.

Come to think of it, so did Itsuwa, from what Touma heard from Tatemiya about her passionate anger from the time Acqua was attacking them.

'Wait... in what kind of convoluted twist I am getting surrounded by girls who act like my mom, both gently caring and strict in anger... Itsuwa, Hasako, even Shizuri to a degree...'

Somewhere out there, the ghost of Freud had to be punching the air in triumph.

Itsuwa smiled and shook her head, observing her senpai tending to Touma, and salvaging the bento box from the nearby bag.

For now, she knew that her moment passed. Nevertheless, she was content. She elaborated on her earlier statement regarding her love, declared her desire to go forward with the confession, and had the feeling that Touma was a step closer for truly falling for her too. The very thought made butterflies flutter in her stomach.

"Come now, say 'aaaah'..."

"A-Aaaah?"

'The price of getting rivals in love is worth it' Itsuwa thought, as Hasako slowly guided chopstick-held piece of the bento into Touma's mouth.

While Touma's coma certainly deepened the preexisting rivalries and created some new ones, the same applied in the area of friendships. Both girls and boys close to Kamijou Touma tried to lean on each other for support after seemingly losing such a crucial person in their lives. For example, Kanzaki Kaori and Itsuwa became closer than ever.

The new friendships were also born. Itsuwa now considered Hasako, Arisa, Saten, and Rin to be as close to her as Kanzaki and Tsushima, despite being acquainted for a half year. Hasako was to her a caring and compassionate senpai, Arisa: dependable and loyal friend, Saten: a funny and joyful confidant. Even Rin, despite her struggle against her split, violent self, was incredibly thoughtful and delicate person in her original persona, who was apparently Kamijou Touma's long forgotten friend from younger years in Academy City. Itsuwa felt really bad for her and so allowed her own opinion to form without bias.

Speaking of the others... she wondered why Arisa was out of the forest for so long?

The fusion of idol and commando went to the shop for picnic accessories, but was sure taking her time. Itsuwa wondered what she could be doing.

(MEANWHILE)

Arisa Meigo was unsure how exactly she got roped into helping someone... again.

But then again, that was part of who she was. It was that earnest, sincere, and pure-hearted approach to people that made her such a loved idol in the past.

Shutaura would definitely scoff at wasting time. And Mitsumi probably had some motivations Arisa did not fully understood. The identity originating from their mixed selves was still young and because of that, rather unpredictable.

But even she didn't know if any of them would deal better with a divine cooking emergency.

(2 HOURS EARLIER)

Like Shutaura once told Touma, living with two other selves inhabiting one body could be a lot like having messy, complicated roommates. Except the room was mobile and served as the vessel of life for all the trinity.

"This is really giving me a headache..." the solider girl sighed, looking around carefully.

She frowned, and then quickly moved through the corridors of Crow Squad Headquaters. After few minutes of stealthily sneaking around the corridors, Shutaura finally made it to the room she was looking for, the kitchen, and closed the door.

She breathed out a heavy sigh and looked at the something she held in her hands all that time.

"Arisa..." she growled quietly, shaking her head" I get that you want to make him happy. In truth, I do too, but... why do I have to do this?"

"Hello there!"

Shutaura jumped. It was not easy to frighten her, but the small girl with oddly purple skin known as Niang-Niang managed to achieve just that.

"Wha... how did you get in here? This is a secret military facility" Shutaura shouted, brandishing a gun at the sudden intruder.

Friends or foes, Shutaura treated military protocol, and the secrecy of their base, very seriously.

Niang-Niang yawned.

"Humans and your guns... this poses no more threat to me than dust on the wind... especially since I am a liberated corpse, after all"

"Whatever you want, go outside!"

"Let me think... no! Are you offering me food? That's kind of you, you have good instincts to give me offerings. I don't really need it though"

"What are you ta-"

Shutaura blinked and realized she was pointing a banana at Niang-Niang.

"Where did my gun-"

"Now, let's move to important topics... like me, for example" the shijie xian patted Shutaura on the back" I am sure you are dying to know why I am here"

"Actually, not really. I was going to focus on something important, alone, so if you may-"

"SO GLAD YOU ASKED!"

"I didn't!"

Niang-Niang spread out something in her hands,.

"Wow? An apron? Cute choice!" she beamed at the black apron with a cat face on the front.

Shutaura paled and realized that her hands were empty.

"How did you take that? Give it back!"

It was already embarrassing enough that Arisa left the preparation of the sweets to her. She still remembered the logs they all made prior to that.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

(DURING THE DAYS BEFORE TOUMA WOKE UP FROM THE COMA)

Arisa: Remember to put the dress I bought on the ceremony of Touma's anniversary.

Shutaura: I would take it if I knew where you put it. Also, did you ate my strawberry cake?

A: Why do you suspect me?

S: I woke up with bits on my lips.

Mitsumi: If it helps, I think that the cake was delicious.

S: No it does not help. I don't care that I woke up full, and the fact that you remember means nothing if I cannot enjoy the taste. So you ate it!

M: Me? I am offended by the accusation

A: Now, now, let's not fight with ourselves... we share this body after all.

M: Admittedly, seeing Shutaura punching herself so it could be felt by you is funny

A: Mou, it really hurt and I didn't even know what happened

S: Arisa, I woke up tired again. Were you running before we switched?

A: Emm... well...

M: We ran away from some fans...

A: Mitsumi-san, how could you?!

S: Why didn't you tell me, you fool?

A: I didn't want to make you worry...

S: WORRY?! I am furious at you!

M: She is not, she is actually concerned

S: What side are you on?

M: Whoever makes me laugh more, I am just too cute thanks to your input in my personality. But I am still not talking to you since you accused me for eating the cake.

A: I don't think you can't not talk with us, since you are both of us...

S: This conversation is going to give me a migraine.

M: I get you. We are in one body, but it feels like being in a big concert full of fans sometimes ;)

A: If it helps, I can get you a placebo pills. I took some, you should still be feeling the effects

S: How can they work if you know they are placebo?!

A: I want to believe that they do work...

M: Perhaps it is best to tell why we had to run from the fans in the first place

A: Oh right. Quen-chan, can you please do me a favour? Group of guys got angry that I had homemade dish ready for Touma. In all the commotion, it got misplaced... can you cook for me? Please?

S: HUH?! I can't cook. Why can't Mitsumi do it?

M: You know, it is very difficult to balance the kindness and abrasiveness in moments like that... I am going to sleep...

S: Just admit that you don't want to do it!

M: Well, if it happened to be my shift, maybe... but you need this more than me. And however you will grow, I will know.

A: So... you will do it, Quen-chan. I would be really grateful if you could!

S: Hah... fine

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

So here she was, wanting to cook for that boy, until some of her other selves could pitch in.

Or at least... this was what she told herself. Deep down, Shutaura Sequenzia wanted to extend some care towards Kamijou Touma. She had no intention on making it a recurring process, like Arisa did, but the commando also loved the boy, and tried to show it somehow.

Then again, she was a proud and uncompromising person, so despite her motivation and drive, sometimes challenges arose. And that was before the strange presence of the purple girl came into the picture.

"Don't look so gloom!" Niang-Niang cheered" I think I shouldn't keep the suspense any longer. You see, I wish to cook something. And through the intricate art of eavesdropping, I know we share the same goal. I want to cook, but honestly, I had no need for that in... eons, honestly. So I would like for you to assist me"

"I-I don't know much about cooking" Shutaura protested as Niang-Niang dragged her to the entrance, and stepped to the kitchen, which was half of building away, and yet somehow moved places to connect to the door.

"Nonsense! You just need to get into good form"

The goddess snapped her fingers and the apron put itself onto Shutaura, her hair tying up in a motherly looking bun.

At the same time, an apron with the characters 可愛廚師 appeared on Niang-Niang.

"Who is the cutest cook ever?" she saucily smiled and winked" Please, hold your applause!"

Shutaura shook her head, trying to regain rational thought

"No, I-I mean... I can't cook anything fancy. I am a soldier, most things I can make I tailored for efficiency... nothing romantic"

She was actually surprised at how disappointed she was upon saying that. She didn't realize it before, thinking about it as Arisa's project, but was building relationship with Touma and caring for his wellbeing crucial to her too?

Most certainly yes. She only had troubles displaying it and figuring out what to do.

"Well, we can't have that..." Niang-Niang frowned before brightening up" But Arisa-chan can cook, right?"

"Yeah, much better than me when it comes to fancy things. But she is not here, and won't be till-"

Niang-Niang simply waved her hand.

Shutaura felt the tension built in her body, balancing on the edge, as if she wanted to yawn or sneeze, but could not do so. And just when it thought the sensation was unbearable...

POP!

In her mind, she felt another presence.

'Arisa?'

'Quen-chan?'

It was so strange. It felt as if all of that time she was suddenly thrown into a chat meeting with split screen.

"Now, that's better I think" Niang-Niang stuck her tongue out, examining Shutaura''s body.

'What happened? Why am I here?' Arisa asked in disbelief. And why are we talking face to face? That's physically impossible...'

'This is her doing' Shutaura looked at grinning Niang-Niang.' She wants to have some help with cooking'

'Well, I don't mind extending helping hand. Why didn't you say so? Let's go!'

Nothing happened.

Arisa looked at Shutaura with quizzical expression.

"Emm... why aren't we moving?"

"Oh, my mistake? Because you have two personalities active at the same time, you probably have to both agree to do something in order to enact it. Or something like that"

'DON'T READ MY THOUGHTS' Shutaura shouted indignantly. Or she would have, if her body wasn't completely motionless. 'THIS SUCKS!'

'Don't worry' Arisa tried to calm her other half down' I agree that we should go few stops forward'

'Fine. Let's do that'

The body jolted forward, made few steps, and promptly fell over.

Arisa and Shutaura winced, as the world around them wobbled and their field of vision was the floor of the kitchen.

'Fantastic...' the brunette groaned.' I don't suppose you will second slugging her to the face?'

Arisa looked away

'She didn't do it on purpose... I think...'

'You are too nice and sweet sometimes. You are lucky that I learned to love that part of us. Hey, blueberry. Are you listening in on us?'

"You know, if I wasn't such an evolved deity, I would take that insult personally" Niang-Niang replied.

'Can you please not make us in control of the same body at the very same time? This going to get us absolutely nowhere'

"Hmm... I guess, I can invite that other you to help... yes, two birds with one arrow. Here I go!"

'No, wai-'

But just like that, their consciousnesses were blown away and fused into Mitsumi.

The fusion self rose from the ground and examined her body.

"That's better..." Mitsumi looked at Niang-Niang, and frowned in the very Shutaura-esque fashion" All of that was unnecessary though. I have Arisa's memories and enough of personality to aid you"

"Oh, but it was so much fun."

"Was it really?"

"Yes. Now, can you help me make some dessert?"

Mitsumi sighed and nodded. Her face relaxed into the expression of patience that was clearly Arisa's influence.

"Well, fine, but I would like to know why, if you don't mind telling me"

Niang-Niang spread her arms and suddenly, a wide variety of cooking tools and utensils emerged in place of her hands from the sleeves of the robe she wore under the apron.

Ignoring Mitsumi's shocked expression, Niang-Niang said

"Well... I know there is a little 'Kamijou Touma get better' project going on, and my best friend already got herself a spot in the one division, I didn't want to feel left out and wanted to get my own little contribution."

It didn't Arisa's emotional empathy in Mitsumi to know that there was more to it than that.

"And?"

"And... I am surrounded by all of those caring, doting types with big chests and personality made of sacharine. I know he likes gentle women... I am not gentle. I am sarcastic, funny, and unyielding. But... I want to prove to him, and myself, that I can be the woman he likes if either he or myself wish for it to be so. I love challenge so I thought that I will make something for him. Then I will be a step closer to claiming victory!"

"Victory? Is love a battlefield to you? I mean, part of my approves, but I also have some romantic hesitations..."

"Oh, love is war alright. Now, as a fellow soldier who now also has the sense of romance and can cook in decent way, can you be of assistance. I will be generous and reward you, too. So what do you say?"

Mitsumi clapped her hands.

"Let's do it!"

(BACK TO THE PRESENT)

Arisa explained everything to Saten.

"After that" Arisa carried on" apparently, according to Mitsumi-chan's log, we went cooking. And no matter how the dessert started, it always ended up as mooncakes. How, we had no idea"

"What can I say?" Niang-Niang shrugged" My link to chinese tradition is just that strong"

"So that's why you arrived late" said Saten, nodding her head" Got'cha"

"Well, not quite."

"Hmm?"

"She got a little distracted..." Arisa muttered sheepishly, scratching her head" during our way here"

"Why couldn't she just snap you into this location?"

"She had a fancy of walking. Apparently, it's a..." Arisa hesitated for a moment" exotic activity for her? But, she looked really cute while she was happy, so I decided not to question anything from that point on."

"And then..." Saten, with almost child-like curiosity, desired to know what happened next.

"And then... there was an accident..."

(ONE HOUR EARLIER)

"Mooncakes, mooncakes, giving him my mooncakes..."

"Well, I am still not sure how despite the attempts at couple of different sweets, you still ended up with the mooncakes, but I am very happy that you are so excited" Arisa chuckled, as she walked behind Niang-Niang, who was skipping steps with carefree glee.

That is, of course, till someone strongly bumped into Niang-Niang from the side.

So strongly in fact that the box with mooncakes fell onto the ground, the sweets rolling on the pavement.

The tall teenage girl with brown hair, surrounded by group of boys, clicked her tongue at the motionless Niang-Niang.

"Watch it, runt" the girl said, tossing her hair aside" You almost stained my best jacket with your snacks"

"Hey" Arisa spoke up loudly" That's not nice nor fair. You were the ones who rammed into her. Apologize"

"Hah? What gives? Are you trying to pick a fight with our anego?" one of the guys raised his fist higher

(BACK IN THE PRESENT)

"Wait!" Saten interrupted the story" They called her anego? Elder Sister? And she had brown hair?"

"Y-Yes, that's correct" Arisa nodded, a little thrown off by the suddenness of her friend's interjection.

The level 0 hit her fist at the inside of open hand.

"I know that girl! In the past, both she and I used Level Upper and she ended up on the same make up course I did. According to Shirai-san, she toned down her criminal actions, but still remained a notorious troublemaker. Vandalism, minor theft, and such"

"Yes, I got that impression as well. Now, things weren't looking so good..."

(BACK TO ARISA'S STORY)

"N-No, honestly. No one needs to be bothered by that. It's just... my friend put a lot of work into her dessert and now it's ruined-"

"That's too bad" the girl answered dismissively" Next time, you don't need to jump everywhere like a caffeinated idiot."

"But, like I said, you walked into her and destroyed her gift. You should probably apologize... we don't want to have a fight..."

"Why? Who would even want a loli like that to give a gift to you? Someone has low standards! And you... are you worried the pipsqueak would be turned into mush? "

The boys around the girl nicknamed Elder Sister roared with laughter

Arisa bit her lip and whispered

"No, the opposite actually... you don't know who this is..."

"That's enough..." Niang-Niang turned around" Don't waste your breath. I know her type. You need to be direct and scare someone like that so they never try stupidity like this ever again. Besides..."

The wind fluttered her qipao, as her green eyes lit up.

"... she already pissed me off."

"Niang-Niang-san, can you please have consideration for the fact that she is just a normal human?!" Arisa pleaded, causing the goddess to briefly look at her.

"I will try to try..." she answered in a neutral tone.

"What the hell are you talking about-" the Elder Sister inquired, and Niang-Niang whipped her face

"Shut your arrogant mouth for a second, and listen to me"

Niang-Niang pinched her index finger and thumb, sliding them horizontally and Elder Sister's lips forcibly closed, allowing her to breathe but not speak.

"Do you know what is it like to make something with your passion and your own hands? Oh, you humans don't really have any other option, do you? But I... I can have everything this world can offer. On this planet and any other... amongst infinite time and space, I can do and make everything I wish. I can create and shape world to give me every object, concrete and abstract, that I desire. So do you understand what it means to me to make something with my own two hands for the first time for eons, to allow myself to fail, to be lost in feelings I have, to pour my emotions into something I make with my own bare strength? I have a lot to do for someone very special, that broke my fear of trying to form a meaningful bond. I want to prove to myself that I can be a positive and caring partner despite my past apprehension... I want to make my stand on that, by my actions. I just wanted to show my cuter side. And you ruined my effort! I do not appreciate that!"

Niang-Niang took few steps towards the group, which left behind a small flames of jade fire behind. Same tongues of fire appeared to be dancing in her irises.

"Apologize now or I won't have to teach you a lesson. On your knees, mankind! Apologize for my mooncake dreams being literally mixed with mud and I won't beat you up for insolence!" she shouted overdramatically.

As always, things for and about Kamijou Touma got girls all around, even ancient deities, rather fired up.

"Are you feeling okay or did you hit yourself really hard on the head? You are talking like a one crazy girl" Elder Sister frowned in dismay.

Niang-Niang sighed and stretched a little.

"You know, while being surrounded by those big chests is a little annoying, in other regards, I love my body. Not only is it cute, but also..."

Niang-Niang suddenly vanished into a blur.

The next thing they knew, she zoomed over one of the guy's head, grabbed him by the arms and thrown him above her shoulders, while landing swiftly on the ground. The teen crashed into the wall.

"... light..."

The other boy tried to engage in a fight, but Niang-Niang was already in the air, spinning twice and kicking the attacker's head with her extended leg.

"... agile..."

With the third opponent, Niang-Niang evaded a couple of punches, jumping lightly backwards with hands behind her back, before sliding behind him with superhuman finesse and delivering the karate chop, that knocked the boy to the ground.

"... nimble..."

Finally, the fourth boy, who seemed most unsure of what to do, suddenly found himself face to face with the Xian. She smiled mischievously and delivered few precise pressure point strikes, which caused him to stiffen and fall with a loud thud.

"... and flexible!" Niang-Niang looked at the groaning teens and whistled" Wow, I was right. Using any of my abilities would be a waste. My fighting skills from good old days were more than enough"

"Wha... you... eeeh?!"

The Elder Sister paled, suddenly alone.

Niang-Niang looked at her.

"That only leaves you, maiden dream destroyer!"

"W-Who... who on earth are you?!"

The look in the eyes of the goddess already told Arisa that Niang-Niang was far into her own theatrics to consider that it could be a bit overdramatic.

"Who am I?" Niang-Niang's smile widened." I am so glad you asked. I don't care that you won't understand but good warrior should have good presentation. Behold, for I am Niang-Niang, from what would become Jiuzhen, in Jiao Province. I am the daughter of Xiaoren and Lifang, and sister of Lihua. I am the Magic God and Shijie Xian, the liberated corpse. I am over 4 thousand years old. I was born during Xia Dynasty, gave my life away for immortal life when my sister perished, and brought her killers to justice with my power. I warred and triumphed in countless conflicts, and created myriad more. I was called the Undead Dancer of Thousand Blades, Vampire Empress, and Goddess of Tricks."

She raised her hand, as jade flames appeared on her hands, spreading onto arms and hair.

"I can shape reality into any form I desire, bring forth infinite possibilities and impossibilities beyond your wildest dreams, for I desire fun and entertainment beyond anything. I endured beyond this realm in the boundless, timeless dark, keeping myself away to spare reality from breaking apart due to my very existence. That's who I am, mooncake killer!"

Elder Sister was covered in sweat. She shook her head.

"You are insane! D-Don't come closer!"

"Don't worry, I am not going to kill you. This would earn me bad points with my human, and I can't have fun with the dead. Though... is it a hypocritical thing to say if I am undead, isn't it?"

"Stay away!"

The girl pulled out a pocket knife.

Niang-Niang raised an eyebrow

"Cute knife. Mine are bigger though"

In flash, her pao pei extended to showcase the collection of knives and swords of all shapes and sizes.

"Come on, scram. I suggest that you rethink your life choices and learn humility. By the way, anything you learned about vampires is not true. At least when it comes to jiangshi... it's way worse"

Niang-Niang said something under her breath, which Arisa didn't hear, and then her eyes became slits, as her teeth sharpened and face appeared to dry up. Now, she truly could pass as a classic vampire.

"Boo"

With uncharacteristically high and girly scream, Elder Sister took off, not looking back one moment.

Niang-Niang snickered, her features returning to normal.

"That will teach her a lesson. She will become a much better person"

"W-Will she really be okay? What did you tell her?"

"Oh, sure. I think this is the new beginning for her. And I just gave her a little suggestion..."

(AN HOUR LATER)

"Please allow me to join! Please!"

Yomikawa Aiho looked incredulously at the familiar girl bowing in front of that. A girl who was a notorious delinquent, and who despite all the odds waltzed into Anti-Skill HQ, and threw herself near her feet.

"Care to repeat that?"

"Please allow me to join Judgement. I want to aid this city as much as I can"

"But..."

"I am a changed person. I will make up for everything I did, I will make sure to pursue justice. Just please... let me join"

Yomikawa was concerned on a number of levels. But the pleas of the girl were so desperate that she finally considered it, no matter how bizarre this was.

After all, technically, it meant one less criminal on the street.

The girl nicknamed Elder Sister was still charged to pay in money and community service, and remained under observation for a month. But, due to certain divine intervention of annoyed Shijie-Xian upset over destruction of certain mooncakes, Judgement got a new member of most peculiar origin, scared into joining it.

And as such, delinquent days of Elder Sister came to a hilariously abrupt end.

(BACK TO THE PRESENT)

"So, where is Touma?" Arisa looked around the Hasako's Sanctuary.

Niang-Niang also looked around with curiosity.

"Now that you mention it, he is not here"

Itsuwa motioned towards the forest.

"He and Saten-san went for a walk through the forest. But they should be back in just a moment-"

BOOM!

The loud explosion was heard from beyond the Sanctuary.

Then the ground shook and something that looked like a fragment of earth itself, with sizeable portion of greenery was hurled through the air.

"Huh?" Itsuwa gasped" What happened?"

Another tremor followed, before a bright flash of light in the distance.

"Is someone fighting?"

Hasako sighed and put a hand over her face.

"Judging from what we feel and the masses of debris in the air, that would be my best friend, who cannot seem to contain herself while confronting someone"

"You don't think that Touma-kun was caught up in it, don't you?"

Itsuwa and Hasako looked at Arisa wordlessly.

"Oh, who am I kidding? Of course he is involved"

"We must hurry!" Itsuwa dashed forward through the forest" He is still on the road to recovery. I wonder if he and Saten-san are alright"

Niang-Niang looked at them and raised the palm of her hand.

"We don't have to wonder"

SNAP!

All four of them disappeared.

(HALF AN HOUR EARLIER)

Touma and Saten were enjoying the peaceful stroll through Hasako's Sanctuary.

It was the first time they had time to spend with one another for some time and they wanted to make most of it.

Touma learned that Kenko and Uiharu's relationship was doing well. Ruiko's brother was away from the city, but the pair messaged with each other so fervently that Kuroko had to notoriously monitor Uiharu for any work to be done.

Speaking of Kuroko, Saten claimed, not without satisfaction, that the relations of her and Mikoto seemed to be healthier and more balanced those days. In fact, ever since Touma told his friends about his experience with talking the world's pain on his shoulders, the two roommates seemed... changed in some way.

According to Saten, Kuroko was actually seen teary eyed when he was in the coma. He was skeptical. The same Kuroko he knew? Surely, their relationship was better in recent times, but she would not be so emotional, would she?

As expected, Saten was an excellent focal point of Academy City's gossip. In the following parts of the conversation, Touma learned that Helcalia was making astonishing progress in her esper development, which actually earned her place in Tokiwadai, where she became a mascot of sorts. Most students adored her exotic looks and silver hair, while those who knew her on more personal level warmed up to her personality. She befriended not only Mikoto, but also Kuroko, who also got to Tokiwadai without being from high esteemed family on the level of some of other ladies. Rumor was that Misaki was planning on introducing her to clique as one of the younger members.

Saten heard that from Xochitl, who heard it from Etzali, who apparently became Kuroko's frequent drinking buddy.

Touma asked about his flatmates and neighbours. Saten heard that Amazora became pretty popular at sports at her school. Even if her temper tended to got the better of her, she matured a lot emotionally and her hidden 10 years of extra time was beginning to yield some substantial effects. Kaibi became a representative of her class and won a high school beauty contest, while at the same time working to improve relations with level 5s familiar to her, even Mugino Shizuri. Rikuri was preparing some grand thesis and experimental formula which, according to Yakumaru, could revolutionize chemistry. It was a common sight to see her napping with her working glasses slightly off and her lusicious in a chaotic mess.

Over the span of half a year, all three Gokusai sisters, even unruly and impulsive Amazora, received a great deal of admiration and offers from the guys of their respective age groups. Yet, with very varying degrees of subtlety, they turned each and every one of them down.

That was, of course, because their hearts were already taken.

They were waiting for him, in many ways. Not only visiting him alongside Index and Othinus every single day, but also keeping each other strong by writing the diary of events that transpired in their daily life so Touma could learn about them when he woke up. Because they never stopped believing he will make it, remembering the last thing he said before he fell into coma: that he will come back to them. That he will not die.

Hasako and Maidono were as close as ever. On occasions throughout the months past, they tended to their oceanic island, a gift from both of them to Touma, lifted from the ocean floor and melded into its shape by telekinesis. The island flourished with rich flora and fauna, alongside many different environments. In truth, Saten remarked that Maidono and Hasako were each formidable on their own. But when they worked together side by side, putting their hands and powers upon single objective, they inspired both awe and respect. The devastating might of Maidono's destruction was fully complimented only by life-bringing artistry of Hasako's creation. Together formed a combination that could bring almost anything into being or cast upon it its annihilation.

Touma felt touched that they vehemently claimed that while they found completion in one another in this way, it was only due to the fact that they both held feelings for him. It was because of his ideals and salvation he once extended to both of them, because of the fact that both of them loved him very dearly, in their own ways... it was because all of that that they wanted to, quite literally, shape the world into being the place he would be happy about.

Indeed, Hasako and Maidono seemed to understand it and worked in harmony to guide the City towards the better future in his absence, with one staying on the ground, the other claiming the sky as their domain. It worked for the most part.

Touma didn't know what Saten meant by that last sentence. She explained that the girls had two different methods of dealing with grief. Hasako started to write an autobiography, while Maidono let her ability loose to blow off some steam. And well... no one really wanted to be around when she did that.

Meanwhile, the Scavengers seemed to do some jobs on the side aside from visiting Touma and tending for his dorm. While their disdain for schools and teachers caused them to not return to proper education, Yakumaru helped tutor some of the kids beginning to learn chemistry, Naru worked part time in maid caffe, Rita occasionally helped with lost and find centers using her Predator, while Seike launched the cosplay site for the conesseurs of crossdressing such as himself.

It was partially to distract themselves, and partially to help gain money for Touma's recovery. Yakumaru and Naru were especially driven to donate their earnings for the continued usage of expensive tissue regeneration by the hospital.

They weren't the biggest contributors though. That title would go to Accelerator (Touma was more than surprised at that, but he was used to the level 5 not revealing any care, even if it was there), and various Tokiwadai ladies.

Touma felt warmth in his heart when he heard that Kongou Mitsuko acquired the contract for the tournee of modelling sessions in several countries, using her own plane to fly over the world like crazy from one event to another, earning prestige and fame with her beauty... and yet not keeping any money to herself. Not that she needed it, but it was still heartwarming to know how much of her energy she spent on making Touma better.

When asked about Index and Othinus, Saten could not say for sure, but she heard that Index was seen leaving the dorm somewhere in the presence of both Othinus and Nephthys.

This put a bit of concern in Touma. What could that possibly mean? Was she attempting something dangerous? But with a former and current Magic God there, he shouldn't worry, right?

He decided to put this on hold and ask Index later. That was much better than drawing baseless assumptions and creating misunderstandings in the process.

Finally, he asked about the group Saten belonged to and her own life in recent times.

"As you know" Saten explained to him" This group was formed to help in your recovery. We assumed that... emm, your experiences in times past weren't kind and gentle, to put it lightly. So we thought that when you wake, you will help all the help you needed, even if you would be reluctant to accept it. That's why those of us who both liked you and were confident in their soft skills got together to give you gentleness you lacked in your friendships"

All members of the K.I.S.S, including Rin, were practicing their cooking, cleaning, dancing, and other qualities of entertainment and leisure that could give Touma peace of mind and happiness of soul.

"So, how's it going for you?" Touma asked his fellow level 0.

Saten smiled and skipped a few steps in front of him, her hair swishing beside her.

"Oh, you know. Some of this, some of that. All sorts of unremarkable things"

"Stop saying that. You are one of the most incredible people in this city"

She giggled.

"That's sounds so flat, and yet you are the only person I believe when you say that"

"Damn right, cause it's true. More so, I would never want to have an overpowered Saten Ruiko, because then you would stop being so understanding and kind. I am sure of it. Only because we understand what it's like to be at the bottom that you can relate to others well. I always admire that in you"

"Hmm? Yeah, I think I remember why I really started to enjoy having you around" Saten stopped in front of him" Seriously, if I met you before the Level Upper, it would be so much easier. You make it sound like being a normal girl like me is a good thing. And while I still think that some ability to fight with alongside all of you wouldn't hurt, with you, it is much better being me. Especially since now, according to you, I can shine the brightest"

"What do you mean by that?"

"Huh?" she made a cute face, tilting her head and putting a finger on her cheek" Wasn't it you who said that I am the most hospitable and amicable person ever? That I am a safe heaven and source of happiness? Cause you know, if you talk like that, you can blame the poor little me for wanting to spoil you and mess with you just a little"

"Come on, you sound like Niang-Niang"

"Well, she is pretty funny. In a weird, alien-like way."

"The fact that you think so concerns me"

"Come on, life is not life without a little tease"

Well, Niang-Niang said that Saten was one of her favourites within science side and the two had some interactions before. Maybe it was not strange that some connection would form.

"Well, I wanted to show you something" Saten said, this time sliding behind him and covering his eyes with her hands" It's a surprise, so no peaking, too"

"Woah? Surprise? Where are you taking me?" Touma stepped forward unsurely, before Saten began guiding him.

"Don't worry, it's close nearby. Just a moment more"

And after few more minutes, Saten pulled her hands away from Touma's eyes.

For a moment, he was blinded by light and he could only see the blurry brown and green and shapes.

But when his sight sharpened, he noticed the trees with red ribbon all over them.

Saten stuck his tongue out, eyeing the view.

"Step... one meter to the left... and squint your eyes a little!"

Still unsure where this was going, Touma did just that.

And then, he saw it.

The ribbons were not chaotically distributed. In fact, from the distance, they hung over the branches in fashion that formed words. Words that spelled...

"Will you... go out with me?"

"Ta-dah!" Saten threw her hands in the air with contagious excitement" Did I just completely blow your mind or what?"

"You... made all that?"

"Yup. It took me a lot of planning and it made Hasako-san just a little bit grumpy about littering on the trees... come on, I am going to clean it up anyway... but yeah, totally worth it."

"How on earth did you do that?"

"You would be surprised how much a good practice with kendama can improve your throwing accuracy. Now, about my question..."

"I-I am... flattered. But are you sure?"

"Pretty sure. I mean, if I remember correctly... and a lot could fly over my head since I am not well-versed in that magic stuff, but I think you said that I was prettier than... prettiest being in existence, was it?"

"W-Well..."

"Even if I am still a lot to take from our relationship, even a girl who has kind of grew used to being unremarkable on default..." Saten sighed, smiling sheepishly" Even that girl doesn't forget words like that easily. So I want to try to see where we go from here. Watcha say to that, hmm?"

"W-Well... emm... I..." even having been in some situations of this sort before (he couldn't believe that was a true sentence when it came to him), Touma could not help but get a little red.

BOOM!

The forest shook slightly as the sound of what appeared to be a fight some distance away resounded through the air, accompanied with what shouted like furious screaming.

"MOUUU! Seriously?!" Saten shouted, before starting to sprint through the forest

"Saten-san?"

"You want to check out what that was right?"

"Right... but..."

"Don't worry, we can talk-"

"Saten-san!" Touma shouted, now running close to her

"Huh?"

"I would love to go out"

Looking at her surprised face, he smiled

"I am tired of my misfortune interrupting me. You put a lot of effort so the least I could do is give you my answer. We can still communicate even while running towards the source of that commotion, can't we?"

Saten laughed merrily, almost falling over her own feet.

"Heh heh heh... you really are the best!"

Now, what was going on outside of the Sanctuary?

The answer revealed itself rather quickly in the form of two girls standing on the hill between the streets and secluded section of the park that was the environment Hasako cultivated for Touma's recovery.

Touma and Saten, hidden before the final line of trees, observed the girls, who were clearly aggravated by each other's presence and were circling each other like wolves. To Touma's shock, he noticed that Mugino detached her prostatic arm. It soon became apparent why, given who she was fighting with.

"Hoshimi and Shizuri?" Touma paled at the sight" Why do I have bad feeling about this?"

"Woah... this is going to be intense..."

"What do you mean?"

But before the Post Coma Exposition Provider Saten-san could fill him in, Mugino slammed her foot to the ground and shouted, few orbs floating around her like planets around the star.

"OUT OF MY WAY! I waited long enough, I am not going to wait a single moment more. I am certainly not going to waste any more on you"

"Oh, trust me, I am not going to let you steal my idea of sneaking up into the forest, and I have no time for your tantrums, so buzz off!"

Mugino's orbs discharged beams, greater in volume than Touma remember, which flew in direction of Maidono.

But never reached her. Because in the next moment, the ground rumbled and tilted. Touma barely managed to grab Saten before she slid down.

The beams missed the target due to the shift in angle, and the fact that the telekinesis user soared into the air. But Maidono was far from done.

In the next couple of seconds, the truck flew over onto the battlefield, and at the same time, a hill dangerously close to Touma and Saten's hiding spot was promptly uprooted and rose into the air, showcasing many layers of earth on the rocky basis.

Maidono shot both of those projectiles at Meltdowner, who only rolled her eyes.

"Seriously? All you can do is throw things, don't you get bored with it?"

Meltdowner beams shot at differing angles, effectively cutting the hill, which separated into much smaller chunks.

"Now, it's-"

FOOSH!

The chunks in the air suddenly shone with brilliant white light, causing Mugino, Touma, and Saten to be blinded and shield their eyes.

"YOU DIRTY BITCH!"

Maidono didn't stop smiling, as she screamed back.

"Well, I just happen to levitate the ground often enough to use it as a weapon. Who knew, hanging out with bunch of chemists paid off. Educate yourself! The soil in this rocks has magnesium base. And do you happen to know what happens when you burn magnesium and it reacts with oxygen?"

Now, half-blind Mugino had to still deal with the tank.

But it seemed that fury only fueled Mugino's battle prowess.

With an absolutely feral roar, the orbs of energy formed a barrier around her, lighting themselves aglow like fireworks. And then...

Touma had to admit, despite not enjoying for fights for fights sake, he was at awe, because Mugino melted through the truck without moving from her spot, the entire way from beginning to the end, leaving a glowing on edges, hot outline of a human-shaped tunnel, which Touma saw for a moment, before the truck exploded.

Mugino slowly raised a very visible middle finger, with the pillar of flames rising up in the background.

Maidono shook her head with a smirk of her own. In the next moment, multiple shards of glass shot forward, yet Mugino simply formed a shield, which disintegrated the broken pieces.

Then, she shot forward, running so fast that it was obvious that besides her looks and ability, her physical fitness was still incredible.

Maidono actually got dangerously close to one of the beams, which inflamed skin on her arm.

But before Mugino could punch her opponent, someone else appeared on the battlefield

"Hey!"

Two girls froze as they noticed none other than Sukemi Rin. She stood with darkening sky as the background.

Touma only now noted that the weather was getting worse. Which was strange since it was pleasant and sunny just a moment ago.

Saten also noted the shift on the sky and gasped

"Oh... yeah, I think they should start getting worried... we've been gone for too long..."

"I doubt Mugino would be scared of bad weather..."

"It's not about bad weather, but what follows it"

Meanwhile, Rin tried to speak to the other girls.

"Please" the girl in headband pleaded gently" Do not fight here. If you really care about Kamijou Touma, you should-"

"Will be with you in a moment. I just need to punch this one for good measure-" Mugino replied, turning back to Maidono.

"Come on you two" Rin tried to dissuade the fighting, to seemingly no avail" I was tasked to ensure that Touma-san has a nice and satisfying rest. You are really messing it up! I cannot have you fighting right here!"

"Do not butt in! Trust me, the last thing I want is to make things worse for Touma. Just let me see him and I will be on my way. But to do this, I must do this first"

In that moment, the ground erupted, pipes and cables surrounding and ensnaring Mugino like a strange artificial tree trunk.

"You left yourself open!"

The metal and plastic were burnt in part, but some managed to wrap around Mugino's neck and arms, restraining her movement.

Touma noticed that Mugino was getting more and more annoyed by the minute. The problem with Maidono's surprise attack was that she could barely breath, and her restrains were close to her body, so she risked burning herself if she used her ability to free herself.

But Touma knew Mugino well enough to know that this powerhouse of a woman did not care in the slightest, especially if bloodlusted enough.

He also noted the dangerous gleam that appeared in Rin's eyes.

From what he heard, his nigh-unseen classmate was a real sweetheart, even if morbidly shy. She was determined and patient, able to adapt to many situations, and was sort of jack-of-all-trades. This was because she used to have some side jobs from time to time, during which she actually encountered some of the city's prominent figures, while always staying in the background.

But throughout all of this, her second personality, the violent sociopath created by Kamijou No Touma, was still present, and contrary to Shutaura and Arisa's case, coexisted at every moment in time, in internal dialogue, able to swap places in moments of strong emotions.

Touma had to react quickly, because he knew one thing:

If Rin got mad and attempted to stop the fight by entering it herself, the result would be a complete and utter catastrophe.

The strongest telekinesis in the world, able to manipulate hundreds of thousands of tons, as well as craft vibrations strong enough to generate earthquakes and fault lines.

Almost unstoppable force of electrons, capable of melting through almost every structure and vaporize it without a trace.

And finally, the sharpness controlling power that could cut or slice almost every material and tissue, being one of the most lethal creations the city's esper development ever produced.

If those three abilities were to clash, there wouldn't be anything to collect from the ruins of the surrounding area.

And thus, Touma yanked Rin into the bushes. Luckily, Mugino and Maidono were too preoccupied with one another to fully take notice of this

"Sssh!" Touma put finger of his hand over Rin's mouth and put a finger of the other on his own lips" I am here and I don't want you to wreck the whole area around us, so please, work with me here"

Rin's shock slowly turned into mellow embarrassment. The dark gleam left her irises. She fidgeted adorably on the ground, blushing from close contact with Touma.

"U-Uhm... I g-get it..."

"Ruiko-san, can you please tell me what in the hell is going on with those two?"

"Ah, you see, when you weren't waking up after 3rd month, your chances of waking up at all got smaller... and while some people, myself included, dealt with it by crying and trying to comfort one another by giving each other hope or reminiscing about the past... some people, including those two... got a bit destructive."

Touma was already seeing where this was going. He witnessed Maidono getting mad and losing control of her ability in times of great distress. It was a sight than most would want to be away from at all costs, with earth opening and splitting, rifts breaking and destroying all of the unfortunate things who happened to be on the way, enormous structures being hurled through the air, and waves of either earth or sea reaching for the sky.

And when it came to Mugino, Touma actually would not like to imagine the lethal destructiveness of her ability, but again had a pretty good idea.

"Beamed holes in the cars. Trucks lodged onto 10th floor of the industrial complex. Scorched asphalt and melted signs. Some streets that were dead ends now have passages through them. We got new series of canals near the river, one mountain was split in half, which created a new hot-spring, one building was moved half a kilometer east... that sort of thing. When either of them got desperate and mournful, they accidentally or voluntarily modified the terrain around them"

"But why they fight with one another?"

"Apparently, your presence was the thing that kept them at peace. They didn't see eye to eye even before, and you falling into the coma only heated things up. When they met during those venting sessions, things always escalated into the conflict..."

Rin completed the explanation, her voice shaking with emotions and charming delight, that she desperately tried to hide.

Touma facepalmed.

Those girls made incredible progress.

Maidono changed. Mugino changed. In any other situation that still would be apparent.

But the combination of two of them together could bring some former bad instincts in them, especially if they were acting out on accumulated stress from the period of his coma, which Touma knew would take some time to clear out of their systems. Even he was still coming around the fact that he basically jumped in time half of a year.

Maidono, while not as choleric as Mugino, was at times impulsive, unrelenting, and eager to show off. Mugino, while more calculative and sophisticated than Maidono, was easy to irritate, proud, and very not fond of people who defied her so brazenly as Maidono surely did.

As he was thinking that, a flash of green light was seen, and Mugino freed herself from the mass of pipes and cables. Her skin was slightly burnt, but she paid it no mind, as she looked at Maidono, who lifted herself in the air with an adrenaline-fuelled expression.

"I have to go out there and stop them" Touma whispered to Saten and Rin" By the way, why no one tried that before?"

Saten gave him a flat look.

"Yeah, walk between telekinesis of that caliber and green beams of melting death? Without any special right hand or high tech protection, which would probably not do much good anyway? That seems like a very good idea. The only ones who could try would be probably other level 5s and Kankyougami-san..."

"Speaking of her..." Rin interrupted, pointing uphill" I don't think you have to intervene now..."

A group consisting of Arisa, Itsuwa, Hasako, and Niang-Niang appeared on the above on the forest path leading to the Sanctuary.

"Wow, on He Xiangu's panties, this is a glorious wreckage" Niang-Niang whistled loudly.

But others were not so thrilled. Especially Hasako, who took a step in front of the group and shouted

"WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?"

The dark clouds were split by thunder. Droplets began to wet the ground.

Seeing Hasako's anger and concern, Touma understood that the suddenly worsening weather conditions were influenced by Hasako's worry for him. It was her equivalent to Mikoto's shooting sparks of electricity and Maidono crumpling of objects in distress.

At first Maidono and Mugino didn't even notice the slender girl in hakama fluttering on the wind. But Touma was quick to react, predicting Hasako's next move.

He yanked Saten and Rin and moved them up.

"Wha-"

"Higher. We must be higher, or it will sweep us as well"

Hasako lifted her chin regally, her eyes glistening in the flash of lightning.

The wind changed and humidity risen. The air gained the taste of salt. The earth changed, turning into structures that resembled coral reefs.

"BOTH OF YOU, ENOUGH!"

The words combined into a roar, as the water seemed to increase from a second to second.

Only then, the girls looked up.

Maidono paled.

"Oh crap..."

Foamy waves of ocean roared, rolling over the hill as in the famous art of Hokusai, and slamming into them with such a force that Mugino, who could not fully form a shield in time, was instantly swept away.

Maidono fared a little better, parting the water in two for a moment, and walking forward through the enormous strain. But the waves eventually closed over her, sending her into depths of oceanic environment, formed in the middle of the land.

They both realized they were no match.

Beginning Child was not invincible. In fact, she had many weaknesses, from her dependence on the genetic samples to her limited stamina. Ambushing her was a valid attack option.

But direct attack from her side which you didn't suspect? No chance in many, many circumstances, for any kind of defence was viable.

Kankyogami Hasako was as close to nature as esper could get. She was nature's emissary, as she often described herself. Fighting her was more often than not like fighting with ocean, desert, volcano, glacier, or vacuum themselves.

'The Beginning Child once stood on top of the hierarchy for a reason. Not only because she is the oldest from all the espers ' Touma mused, looking at the figure of Hasako, standing above the swirling masses of water below the thundering sky, slowly descending, with her hair and figure swaying slightly .

It was almost inhuman how can someone look that strong, imposing, delicate, and beautiful, all at the same time.

After a moment, the ocean became shallow and receded. When barefoot reached the end of the path, the environment shifted, the clouds parting, tempertature rising, water drying, and corals breaking into sand.

Touma understood that Hasako did so for the girls to not get sick. Even in her anger, she retained majority of her kindness.

Mugino, still soggy and wet, with seaweed in her hair, coughed up a sizeable quantity of water. Some distance away, Maidono was trying to rise on her feet, still shaken by her friend's display of power, that cooled down the squabble instantly.

Hasako walked through the dunes and sighed.

"What are you doing? I believe that Itsuwa-san..." Hasako mentioned towards the back, and Itsuwa waved her hand" Made it clear that we are taking our duty for nurturing Touma back to health very seriously. We do not wish to be disturbed and proceed as everyone agreed"

"I never agreed to any-"Mugino began, but Hasako swiped her hand through the air.

"No, young lady. Me and my friends are dedicating their hearts to create a loving atmosphere Kamijou Touma deserves more than anything. So I will not have any fighting here. Understood?"

"Young lady? Wow, that really had to tick her off. Well, it checks out, outside of her love for nature and friends, there is no one she cares for more in the world than you" Rin sighed, somewhat enviously.

Hasako then turned to Maidono, who quietly tried to move away.

"And you!"

Maidono, sporting her true bobcut hair, slowly pointed at herself

"W-Who, me?"

Hasako crossed her arms.

"H-Hey Hasacchi! Well, I might have gotten a little carried away with trying to make a surprise for Touma and getting pissed off because that glorified disco ball also tried to sneak into your Sanctuary... but I really wanted to give Touma good time"

"Couldn't you wait for the evening?"

"It wouldn't be much of a surprise if I did it in an expected period. Besides... you two are just here, together. Can you blame me for thinking I was missing out?"

"I am sure Touma will have time for you in-"

"It's not just him! You hide in your closed group, which is cool, I get why you do that, but I miss you too... owowowow!"

Hasako sighed and pinched her friend's cheek, which caused the telekinesis user to flail her arms in discomfort.

"What do I have with you... I know you are insecure about people abandoning you after your time alone, and that it got... worse during Touma's coma... but you don't have to worry anymore. Touma-san loves to have you around, he trusts you enough to share something as big as his memory loss, back when select few knew... He will not abandon you. Didn't you say that you believed in him in time he was unconscious?"

"Yes... but I was afraid. Half a year ago, I thought I lost you. I couldn't possibly afford losing him too. He gave me hope, he gave me... love... "

"We are not going anywhere. Like I said, you don't have to worry about us leaving you"

"Can I really believe you though? If I am not of use, then..."

"Hoshimi... I know that you fear being abandoned if you are not of use... but if Touma needs anything from you, it's your love, not service. Yet, either way, you are needed. We both need you. I have so many visions of the environments I can create, landscapes I can enrich, world I can beautify. My artistry of nature, my yearning to create, needs someone to ground me. You are that someone. You ground me in this strange world, just like I can help you to be sure you do not lose yourself. I know you belittle yourself because you were scolded for being destructive. But we would not have it any other way. We love him together and together, we will make through everything, to be able to love him even more. Without destruction, creation cannot flourish. Without creation, destruction is just pointless barbarism. Touma understands that, and even though I was insecure of whether or not someone like me can be cared for, I now know that he saved me for a reason. There is a reason behind your salvation too. You are a havoc to my genesis. And I know you can give him everything two of you deserve."

Maidono chuckled slightly

"Yeah, now that you mentioned it, service is something Touma has in abundance... he does have three maids battling for his attention, I think... it might be too crowded...better not to jump into that fight..."

"Do you trust me?" Hasako asked Maidono.

"I would move mountains for you" her best friend replied strongly.

"And do you trust Touma?"

"More than anyone"

"So trust us when we say that we both love you for who you are. I wouldn't go nearly as far as I did without you. Don't tell him you know that, but Touma missed your sense of humour and the opportunities to feed you"

Maidono's cheeks coloured a good bit.

"He missed it?"

"Yes, he did. Now, can I trust to tone down your attention seeking?"

"I-I am not attention seeking!"

Hasako raised an eyebrow.

Maidono put her hands in the pockets of her trousers and kicked a fragment of rubble, pouting lightly.

"Okay, maybe a little attention seeking... but I am a woman in my youth, I need my best friend in the world and my loved one. But I suppose, I will wait just a bit longer..."

"You can join us for lunch, you know?"

"Really?"

"Yes. There is very useful skill that helps to resolve misunderstandings and allows one to get what they desire. It's called 'asking'"

"Very funny" Maidono elbowed Hasako lightly" When did you become so sassy and assertive, huh?"

"I don't know. I think I had good teachers" Hasako smiled, looking at Maidono, and then uphill, at the group still watching them." Either way, I am still mad at you for destroying those lovely trees"

Maidono grinned, sensing an opportunity to tease Hasako back.

"It's true what Touma said. You really are the most adorable when you are trying to lecture someone"

"EEEP! H-He c-couldn't say that, y-you are just jesting!" Hasako's face turned crimson, far more than Maidono's earlier blush" A-And I am n-not adorable in such moments"

Trying to divert the topic, he then turned to face Mugino Shizuri, who by now fully regained her bearings.

"What about you?" Hasako asked lightly.

"Huh?" Mugino shot back in annoyance. "What are you talking about? Also, can't you turn off that goddamn sauna, we are going to melt in here"

"Oh, right" Hasako said, and desert faded, dissolving and letting regular city environment return.

"Why are you here? I doubt that you only wanted to capture Touma or something like that"

"What makes you sure I didn't just want to take him by force for my whims? After all, I am an unstable sadist, am I not?" Mugino said sarcastically

Beginning Child shook her head.

"You are not fooling me. You may be brash and prone to impulsivity, but you know better than to make such a rushed entrance. Unless something completely out of the ordinary motivated you strongly enough to forgo your normal rationale and go here in search of him. Also, we spent some time together. I know that behind all that aggression is a kind heart. You want what is best for Touma too, right?"

Mugino's face scrunched in anger, but ultimately, she only clicked her tongue and muttered

"You can fucking bet I do. I..."

The following was incoherent mumbling

"What was that?"

"This is stupid shit, I don't..."

"This stupidity seems pretty important if it gets you so worked up..."

"I... LLLLLLLLGHHHH..."

"I didn't quite understand that..."

"I... LOOOOOOOOOHHHHHH..."

"Is she having a stroke?" back in the bushes, Saten squinted her eyes.

"No, not really" said a different voice. They turned around to see Itsuwa and Niang-Niang crouching behind them.

"When did you two-"

"You are rather visible from above. You had me pretty worried" Itsuwa affectionately addressed Touma. "I am happy that you two are alright"

Itsuwa had a small smile on her lips" I suppose that after being this dark and sadistic woman for so long, saying this is not an easy thing. We should probably get going because-"

But she didn't manage to finish before Mugino burst out into exclamation so vibrantly loud that they all heard it without any issue, even from a distance.

"I love him, okay? I love Kamijou Touma!" Meltdowner exploded with cascade of words, tossing her wet hair and stomping her foot on the ground "That's why I made a fool of myself, and did all kinds of stupid, irrational shit, that's why I want to change more than anything, why I was running amok when I felt he could have been gone, why I needed to see him now. I didn't think someone like me had a chance to ever be loved or ever deserve to feel love towards someone else. This love is not some puppy lovey dovey sugary sweetness, it is a promise, to make ourselves better, to stop ourselves when we go too far. I am not used to knowing how I feel, I am not used to think to being so hot, and messy, and blubbering like a fucking moron... but somehow I am. I am not going to repeat myself, I am not going to tell tearful heartfelt stories, about my maiden dreams, or another bullshit like that... but he changed me, for the better, and if I don't tell him, it will drive me insane... again. So I am here to take him and tell him that for now on, he has my feelings to consider and that I will do my god damn utmost to make him realize that he is fucking lucky and that our deal is more than just obligation... it's a promise of my feelings for him. Well, are you done pestering me? Happy now?"

Touma listened as if hypnotized.

That took a very unexpected turn.

"Now, do you understand?" Itsuwa whispered again, trying to get him to move" We must leave, because if she realizes you are here-"

Touma nodded half-consciously, trying to move backwards without rising above the bushes.

If Mugino saw him here, now that he overheard this confession, she would likely react violently. While she mellowed down significantly from her dark side days, Touma would rather not test it.

He took Itsuwa's hand and was ready to retreat.

But didn't we forget about something?

Would Kamijou Touma's misfortune would ever easily let him off the hook in such situation, that seemed tailor-made to bring him misery?

Hah, of course not!

Touma's foot found itself on the broken branch laying on the ground. This caused him to lose balance and tumbled downhill, through the bushes and onto the open, attracting the attention of everybody present. Including Mugino.

By this point, Touma had to face the music. Having no reason to lie down, he slowly rose up, dusting himself off.

Mugino had a face that seemed to be a mismatched fusion of confusion, anger, mortification, and even some embarrassment.

"Oh my..." Itsuwa put a hand over her lips, looking at both parties.

Touma seemed to slow down as he and Mugino looked at each other.

"You..." Mugino finally broke the silence, her voice filled with brewing emotions" You... were here..."

"H-Hey Shizuri-san, y-you see, there is a totally legitimate reason why I was in the bushes..."

"you were there... the whole bloody time..."

"Y-Yeah..."

"And you..." Mugino's voice wavered a little, before returning with doubled force" HEARD EVERYTHING I SAID?!"

"I-In my defence, it was kind of hard not to, since you screamed it..."

Seeing the girl gritting her teeth and clenching her fists, Touma raised his own hands in front of himself.

"W-Wait, I simply thought that it would make you mad if I just sprung up all of the sudden!"

The air around Mugino crackled as green orbs formed around her.

"And in what world..." she seethed out, as the eyes of the rest of girls widened at the display" did you think staying hidden would not make me mad?!"

The beams discharged en masse.

(20 MINUTES LATER)

The group, consisting of K.I.S.S, Touma, Niang-Niang, and Maidono, sat down to prepare picnic.

"Well, that went as well as I expected" Touma sighed." Is my hair still smoking?"

Itsuwa shook her head with a smile, but pointed out to Touma's cheek.

"You have some dirt smeared on your cheek. Let me get it off of you"

As Itsuwa moved closer and started rubbing Touma's cheek with a handkerchief, their faces grew progressively redder from such closeness and gentleness behind Itsuwa's action.

"Awww..." Saten cooed, leaning on her hand and watching from the other side of array of snacks on the blanket" Your housewife skills were clearly maxed from the start. You look so cute, Itsuwa-senpai, that I could make a line of candy from this sentiment"

"P-Please stop, t-that's embarrassing..."

Saten then turned to Hasako, and poked her arm.

"Hasako-senpai, are you still upset because of what happened?"

"W-Why are you thinking that?"

"Our clothes are beginning to sprout flowers." Saten pointed at hoodie she opted to wear for casual time with Touma and company" Keep that up and my head will start like Uiharu's"

"Oh... my apologies. I guess that I am a bit frustrated with how Mugino-san handled things. I remember Orsola-san mentioning that she is very hurt and needs lots of time to heal, but sometimes, I wish she wouldn't be so temperamental"

When Touma's whereabouts became clear, Mugino, in the mix of embarrassment and frustration, fired her ability at him.

And although Touma had it handled and ready to counter it with Imagine Breaker, Itsuwa instinctively tackled him to the ground which made one of the beam slightly scortch his hair and set it on fire. Nothing dangerous, just making him a little bit smoky.

Afterwards, quite surprisingly, Mugino actually took off without a word, leaving the group on their own.

"I am so sorry for doing that. I could have actually killed you" Itsuwa told Touma mournfully.

"No, it's fine. What matters is that no one got seriously hurt. I know that Mugino only did that because she knew I am one lucky guy to have someone like you always looking out for me in dangerous situations. In Avignone, in Russia, in England, even here in Academy City... directly or not, knowing that you have my back is awesome"

Itsuwa lowered her eyes modestly with an endearing smile.

"Thanks, I am happy that you think I earned such nice and heartwarming words from you"

Touma looked at Hasako

"I know you don't approve of Mugino's temper in situations like this, but to be fair, I promised her that I would spend time with her."

"That's not excuse to overreact" Maidono said with a smile, floating two rocks and moving it to the other side of the meadow they used to set up the picnic.

"Those are rather ironic words from you, Maidono-san" Arisa remarked, adding finishing touches to the food." And you still seem to be in good spirits"

Not wanting Maidono to think she was overlooked, Touma took her to the side and talked with her for a few minutes.

When they returned, even though it was clear that Touma didn't lay a finger on the bobcut telekinetist, Maidono seemed to be more flushed and wobbly, to the point of shivers, with drastically improved mood.

Only Hasako had a good idea what could have happened

'Whatever he said, he used her name. She loves her name used by Touma when they are alone. Hmm, well, as long as they are happy, and Hoshimi is not uprooting the entire mountain, this is all that matters'

"Either way, you are supposed to be resting. Giving you space to heal is the most important thing right now"

"Yes, but... so is keeping promises and-... R-Rin-san, what are you doing?"

As Itsuwa moved just a bit away, Rin put herself on Touma's lap and smiled lightly.

"I-I just thought that a warm embrace and cuddling with your newly encountered friend can uplift your spirits" the girl with a headband explained meekly, trying to not avert her eyes.

Yet in the next second, her lips stretched into a grin.

"She also thinks we have a cute butt and that you might like it"

Rin slapped her mouth shut.

"N-NO, don't listen to me... her... you know!"

She fidgeted around in her discomfort, which only made Touma, who tried to escape into realm of pure, enlightened thoughts, all the more aware of the comment from Rin's alter ego.

"What an amusing mind and body you have, Rin-senpai" Saten laughed out loud, match to petite girl's chagrin.

"T-There is nothing funny about it, Saten-san!"

"Everybody, let's get to eating" Arisa broke the moment, pointing at the food.

And so, everyone began to dig in.

"Now, Niang-Niang, give Touma what you prepared" Arisa motioned forward, looking at the goddess.

The purple immortal frowned.

"But... I had to recreate them. Sure, once I knew how to make them, recreating the ones that were destroyed was foolishly easily. It took one thought. But they are not genuine-"

"They are though" Touma said, taking one mooncake into his hand" Arisa told me everything. You really made this without magic? Originally, at first attempt?"

"Wah... so it's out already..." Niang-Niang looked at Touma, and then nodded" Yup, all with my own strength. Is this weird?"

"I would say unusual, since from what I saw you Magic Gods don't even like walking all that much and prefer to instantly teleport wherever you want... and honestly... this makes it all the more incredible! Thanks for it, Niang-Niang! Let's check it out..."

He took a bite out of the mooncake, and his face lit up

"Wow, this seriously good. I don't care if you had to recreate it, if this is the product you got to through your work, I love how it tastes"

Niang-Niang's eyes glistened and shimmered as she jumped into the air, spreading her arms and legs while floating.

"You like it? Really, really, really, like it?"

"Yeah..."

Niang-Niang soared in the air, making a victory dance that would probably make more dignified gods frown. But she was having none of it, nor she thought of anything else that she was more happy and excited than she expected from such a small thing.

She could create so many things. Death could not kill her, time could not age her, space could not bound her, reality could not stop her. The universe itself was a toy in her hand.

And yet, the simple, terribly mundane action of baking the mooncakes for the mortal she was fond of brought the undead warrior maiden more excitement and smiles that eons of phase shifting. Hell, she didn't have an idea that her heart could be filled with so many ideas about how to mess with Touma on next occasion. Now this was something to truly look forward to!

Still giddy, Maidono joined the Shijie Xian in the air, whirling and soaring higher and lower. The others watched two very enthusiastic blurs zoom in and out of the sky.

"Is it just me or do those two share the same brain at some moments?" Saten pondered out loud.

Hasako giggled behind hand lifted to her mouth.

"No, you are definitely not alone in this sentiment"

"Yup, definitely" Touma nodded." So what we do now?"

"That's easy" Rin got up and bowed with a surprising amount of grace" We do what we can to make your recovery go easier. And cut everyone who dares to interfere to tiny pieces."

She clasped her hands over her mouth.

"I-Ignore that last part, please! She just sort of... slips out sometimes"

Touma sighed. He already was surrounded by multitude of girls without even desiring said outcome to being with. He could withstand the addition of the peculiar mix of a sweet, childhood friend deredere and violent, slashing-obsessed yandere.

"It's alright" he assured Rin" What do you have in mind?"

"W-Well, if it's okay with you, I would like to offer you a shoulder and back massage..."

Rin tapped repeatedly on her signature headband with her finger as she was saying that.

It was a habit she had that usually indicated she was both internally excited even if shyness prevented said excitement.

Touma choked on the drink he was having.

"I c-could not possibly ask something like this of-"

"T-That's fine, I want to do it!" Rin squeaked, fumbling with her hands.

"Seriously, take the offer" Saten nodded her head vigorously" She is awesome in massaging. Shocking but true!"

"I-If you two insist..."

Meanwhile, Arisa looked at the sky and sighed.

"While it is nice to have a moment of calm" she said to herself" I do wonder how Mugino-san is handling all of this"

(MEANWHILE)

"Stupid... foolish... pathetic... imbecile..."

Mugino Shizuri was growling those words while repeatedly banging her head on the table of the by-the-street cafe, few kilometers from Hasako's Sanctuary.

She fled after firing her ability, due to very complicated and volatile mixture of emotions, and tremendous guilt due to not being able to reign in her reactions.

Now, she was in a sour mood, sitting in a random cafe, and causing the guests nearby to fearfully glance at every growling remark.

The waitress carefully approached her, trying to brace herself and reprimand Meltdowner.

"P-Pardon me miss, but you are bothering-"

"HUH?!"

Mugino raised her head and glared at the poor girl, who paled and bowed deeply.

"... a-absolutely no one! H-Have good time with us!"

After that, the waitress quickly scurried away.

Mugino groaned. She wasn't planning to frighten that girl, but her face was set on scary mode as a default when she was so bothered.

There were few reasons for Mugino's mood.

To get first point of clarification out of the way, Mugino was not angry at Touma. Well, she initially was, when he fell from the bushes, but by this point, #4 esper got good enough in calming herself down to understand that he didn't do anything wrong.

She didn't realize it fast enough to not try to attack him, but it was a start.

Thus, the adjectives she kept growling out while banging her slightly red forehead on the table were not meant for Touma. No, they were directed at herself.

And why exactly was she saying them?

For one thing, she got worried for Touma. She knew he could negate her beams, but it should really be no excuse for attacking him.

What if he hated her for doing that? Mugino was strong, fierce, and independent young woman, who could not care less of other's opinions, or at least, she did not allow others' opinions to drag her down. However, the idea of Touma starting to hate her stung her heart more painfully that she allowed herself to admit out loud.

Also, she fled! She fled the scene, god damn it! That wasn't normal for her!

Well, she also wasn't normally embarrassed. As the matter of fact, Mugino could not recall the time her anger stemmed from her feeling like a flustered, innocent maiden, who she certainly wasn't!

But she did it! She became flustered and embarrassed! And as if to put a salt to the injury, it made her look just like...

"I was acting just like the god damn Railgun!" Mugino slammed her fist on the table" ME! I can't believe I acted just like that annoying, self-denying brat!"

"Yeah, sounds like you really have your temper cut out for you" sounded a familiar voice.

Mugino narrowed her eyes and turned around, to see Ladylee Tangleroad sipping tea by the table beside her.

"What the hell are you doing here?"

"Isn't it obvious? I am enjoying tea." Ladylee took another sip with a grace of a little princess" Back during my youth, the tea was unknown in Europe. It took me 2 centuries to first try it and 2 more to drink it at my homeland. I respect the art of teamaking very much, I think the ceremonies you japanese have in place can really hone some of the necessary virtues. Such as... patience"

"Were you alluding to something?"

"Maybe. If you told me more about your current predicament, maybe it would be more clearer what I meant"

"I don't want to" Mugino groaned, closing her eyes" Just leave me alone"

"Oh, don't be like that. I can offer you the most valuable thing you can get from a wise and mature woman like me"

"Some quiet time?"

"Hah, no! Advice!"

"Oh for fuck-" Mugino paused and sighed. She looked at Ladylee once again" Shouldn't you be trying to meet with Touma?"

"I am in no hurry. After all, time is something I always have. But you on the other hand, seem to be trapped. Something occurred in regards to him, right?"

"You are going to be pestering me until I tell you, right? Damn it, and even if did try to kill you, you will just keep coming back"

"Well, no need to rub it in, I am sorry for being alive as well"

After a moment, Mugino told Ladylee about her confrontation with Maidono after both of them got the same idea to sneaking into the Sanctuary to meet Touma and then, the disastrous confession that went like nothing Mugino planned.

"Yes, I made my mind" she cried out in outrage, clenching her fist tight" I was never a type of girl who needed a guy to confess to her! No, in this situation, as any woman with a brain in her head should realize, I needed to confess to get this swarm of harpies away from him. I had couple of scenarios in my mind. For example, I would get the most exquisite clothes in my wardrobe, get him into my apartment, and then... WHAM! Reveal my feelings in the most spicily exquisite manner. Or go to a dinner together. Or even on some kind of... adventure, mission, something I know, something he can relate too... but now, it's all ruined!"

Ladylee looked questioningly at the heavily panting Mugino.

"And... why are you so frustrated? You did confess in the end. You probably spoke from the heart exactly because you weren't trying to create any image of yourself, since... well, you thought he wasn't there. Your feelings did get across in genuine form. So what's the problem?"

"Are you mocking me right now?"

"No, seriously, not at all. I want to know your reasoning. But maybe I can guess. What do you say?"

Mugino groaned once again.

"Go the hell on, I sure know I can stop you, no matter how much I want to"

"Wonderful. The way I see it is that you have this vision of how to conduct the confession. You wanted to have it all under control, to the smallest miniscule detail."

"Is it wrong to want such an important thing to go as you wish for it to go?"

"Yup, you are a bona fide perfectionist, extreme one at that"

"Fuck you"

"That's the spirit! I take it as a resounding affirmation of my hypothesis. So, if we agree that you are upset because you wanted perfection... then I have only one thing to say... "

Ladylee spread her arms and exclaimed:

"Give it up. Perfection is unattainable and pointless."

"Tch, you cannot know this" Mugino protested" There is nothing wrong with wanting to be the best"

"No" Ladylee shook her head" There is nothing wrong in trying to be better than you are now, even knowing that you may not be the best. That's different from trying to reach something vague and idealistic to the degree that the variables never align into so called ideal. What even is that? It clearly messed up your life before. It was those perfectionistic tendencies that caused you to snap and lose your sanity. You stretched yourself too thinly and at some point, started to unravel. It even claimed the life of your comrade. Try to be better, not the best. If you happen, for a moment, be the best at something in particular, good for you... even though it will only last for a moment. You will never be able to rest if you focus only on chasing the ideal of perfection"

As much as Mugino was annoyed with Ladylee's insights, she had to admit that petite woman was right. Her utter intolerance of any form failure was something that put a strain not only on her own mental stability, but also on the very foundation of ITEM as a whole. The result was tragic and could potentially be even more disastrous.

"But..." she still tried to oppose the idea. It was just so different from what she knew in her life for so long" Pursuit of perfection leads to respect. Respect leads to power. Power can secure you happiness"

"Do you really believe that? Besides, even if it is like that, there is also something else to consider..."

Ladylee jumped onto the ground, strolling as if she was in an old cabaret. The only thing missing was the twirling of the cane.

"... is that one day you are going to die!"

Ladylee sounded envious, as she sighed.

"It may be tomorrow, in a year, or in a couple of decades. You can get sick, get into an accident, sleep and never wake up or age rapidly from stress... I kid, I kid, don't glare at me like that. But possibilities are endless and eventually, you will indeed die. Even if you stress your head over the future, with every minute you have less and less of it to worry about. You will body will one day break down and your life will be no more."

"Wow, thanks, so motivational."

"But don't you see? In a hundred years, only dust will remain of you, not much more than dust left after you use this ability of yours, and no one will know who you really were. You will not be there to see what you left behind. So who cares if you make mistakes? No one! And you should not either. Till you have your time, you should try to live your life as you wish, being better than your current self at things you choose just to enjoy being here for that fleeting moment you have. I so envy you. Death brings freedom and makes life so meaningful. Natural limits are there for a reason. Only when we see the outlines of something, we can give it meaning, because we value what we can do with it with the restrictions imposed by life. Meanwhile, I am accountable for every single thing every thing ever for the rest of eternity, while became bland and without limits, without possibility of ever changing. Well, at least I thought so..."

The sudden change in tone didn't escape Mugino's attention.

"You thought so?"

Ladylee opened her mouth, but initially, no sound came out.

After a moment, she chuckled and shook her head.

"I think I feel things... that should not be possible at my age."

'She definitely is connected with Touma more than she lets out... how and why though is another question though?' Mugino thought

"So" Ladylee asked" What do you think about my idea?"

"Your idea of motivation is morbid and depressing, but... I admit, in that view, being a perfectionistic sucks. And there are few things I hate more than something that wastes my time. Besides, death may be an awful thing, but it's part of reality, and I am firm believer in facing facts, whatever the situation may hold. So, I am not making outright promises, but let's say I will try to reconsider a few things."

Mugino followed Ladylee's gaze and realized she was looking roughly in the direction of the Sanctuary.

Where Touma was.

For a glimpse in which she managed to see Ladylee's eyes, Mugino recognized something. A gaze of longing.

"He will also die one day" she remarked, feeling her own heart sink at those words.

She thought that even though she was past murdering others, talking about death would not pose a problem. But apparently, she was wrong to at least some degree.

"Yes" Ladylee answered, more quietly this time" For better or worse, he is incarnate of humanity in his soul. Its best and worst sides... he transcends what makes humanity what it is, without losing his identity of a human... and so, Kamijou Touma will die one day."

Mugino determined that Ladylee was very good at concealing her feelings, almost perfect. But there was an unmistakeable shift in her voice when she talked about Touma's mortality. As if she didn't want to fully put it in words.

'She loves him. It's a very special and unique love' Mugino realized' Knowing this weirdo, it's a very strange love even... but even if she believes that no one's legacy will endure the test of time, I doubt that when it comes to Touma-'

"I don't want this for him"

Mugino almost jumped in surprise as Ladylee spoke again.

It was almost as if she read her mind.

"I know what is bound to happen... but even if I am to outlive him, I don't wish for his legacy to be forgotten. I made a decision that I will try to keep this memory alive, no matter what. If that's something that can give me meaning, so be it"

"You said it yourself: it is impossible"

Ladylee sighed and spoke in a tone that betrayed her actual age. She rubbed her eyes, and Mugino noticed a trace of moisture on her fingers before the immortal wiped it away.

"I know more than anyone of its impossibility... but I suppose, it literally can't hurt me to try... it's not like I can waste time trying to preserve his legacy, having infinite amount of time to spare. And what legacy this might be... He will be the genesis of thousands of stories, through his kin and virtues"

Mugino listened, something bothering her about the way Ladylee said it.

"But is it really what you wish for?"

Ladylee smiled lightly.

"Now, who was supposed to be helping who? Am I that easy to read?"

"Trust me, you are not. But some things just seem... clearer, when it comes to him."

"Hmm, well said. Clearer, yet at the same time murky. To tell you the truth, I am still torn on my fate. I used to be great at seeing the future, I like to believe I still am, but my fate with him is... hazy"

"Now you are talking about fortunetelling? What is going on around this city?"

Ladylee laughed at Mugino's exasperation.

What she told Meltdowner was true. She truly did believe that confrontation with ones mortality was a way to overcome the toxicity of perfectionism. She truly did wish to preserve Touma's legacy.

And as things stood, she still desired to die.

But... something did change too.

Not whether or not she wanted to die.

But how she wanted to do it.

In the past, she couldn't care in the slightest. All that mattered is ending it all.

But right now, she didn't want to leave too early nor too late.

She wanted to die alongside someone she loved. Someone who understood what it was like to repeatedly die. Someone who was willing to bet everything to keep her alive even for a day longer, even if Ladylee herself given up a long, long time ago.

'I am sorry, kid' Ladylee thought, looking at Mugino' But I fear I could have been a little hypocritical in my advice. Not intentionally though'

She didn't want to say it. She didn't want it to become real, because she still had ways to go if she was to become mortal.

And yet, more glaringly than ever before, the choice was presenting itself to her: die and find peace alongside someone she came to love, or endure to preserve Kamijou Touma's legacy.

It appeared farfetched to think about it now. But even if Kamijou Touma was to die of old age, decades were not long time for Ladylee. And so, the torment inside her soul grew.

'What am I going to do?'

(ONE HOUR LATER)

After lunch, Touma and the girls left the Sanctuary. Saten returned to her dorm, Arisa and Rin went to hospital for a medical checkup that Touma's mentally split classmate had to routinely undergo. Niang-Niang, in her traditional manner, departed as suddenly as she appeared, though Touma knew that she would return in their next time together in the evening. The frequency of Magic Gods visiting him increased in recent times.

As a matter of fact, Touma recalled Niang-Niang cozied up on their couch together with Rikuri, watching anime.

It was unlikely pair to spend time together (even if Touma saw Rikuri and Nephthys also bonding over their passionate love of telenovelas, with two of them being emotional and vocal criers during the drama) but apparently, they were both very invested in one particular series. From what he could gather, Niang-Niang loved it because it was set in China, while Rikuri was very invested in the fact that the main heroine worked with poisons and seemed to get the same rise out of it as Rikuri did.

As Touma reminisced about this shared passion, Hasako walked with him and Maidono to the apartment complex.

"Alright you two, I am heading out to check on Saronia. I expect that she did her best today."

Touma blinked in confusion

"Saronia?"

Hasako gasped.

"Oh, in all of those emotions, I failed to tell you... Saronia works for me now"

"Works for you?"

"Basically, Hasacchi makes her do a lot of community service. She is like a really scary, yet doting mom" Maidono explained.

"I am only trying to make her a better person, even if her actions were absolutely atrocious. Now, she is aiding Child Errors in various facilities around town."

Touma frowned

"Emm... but Saronia strapped children with explosives in Hawaii. Is it wise to leave her with them?"

"The sins she made against children it's precisely why she must atone by making amends in this specific area, in addition to being in service to you." Hasako explained" I believe that she if Othinus-san had the potential to be redeemed, so can she. I truly wish that one day she reclaims my trust."

"Also, Hasako left her in the care of the supervisor who is very devoted to keeping children around" Maidono grinned.

(ELSEWHERE)

Saronia Irivika wiped the sweat from her brow as she finished sweeping and cleaning the hallways in the building occupied by Child Errors.

She was tired and stressed out, but at the same time, tried to take her service with some level of dignity. After all, she didn't have much more right now.

"Good job, good job" a voice sounded behind them.

Saronia turned around to see Musujime Awaki approaching her.

"It's nothing. I am just trying to do what I am sent here to do" Saronia explained" And I really do want those kids to feel welcomed in this place"

"That's great" Awaki clapped her hands" It's so good to see that we are on the same page. I was given the clearance to be here precisely to watch over you, so I am here to do precisely that. You want to help those precious children, right?"

"Yeah, I really do. I know I did some awful things in the past, but-"

"Okay, that's enough, I didn't ask for your entire backstory and motivation. Just a yes or no. Oh, I am so happy that you want to help the children..."

She suddenly moved closer to Saronia, her smile thinning and eyes darkening

"Because if any of them starts crying because of you, gets hurt because of you, or otherwise stops being all cute and preciously innocent because of you... I will teleport your organs out of your body~"

Then, Awaki backed away and waved to ghastly pale magician.

"Keep up the good work, see you later"

Saronia rose her hand and choke out

"R-Right... s-sure..."

(BACK TO WITH TOUMA AND COMPANY)

"Also, I should probably help Kumokawa-san. Knowing her, she is so preoccupied in doing her part in helping Touma that she forgot to eat."

"Senpai is in all of this too?"

"I am sure that she or someone from her group will explain it to you. So, farewell for now. In later hours, you should receive information from me"

Touma nodded. From what Hasako told him, she and the rest of K.I.S.S had something plans for a sleepover. If it was any other group of girls, he would be very hesitant when it came to the idea. Not only because he knew most of the girls would not want a boy around during such time, but also due to the fact that those that would want it more than anything, would probably have lots of... intentions, of their own.

Of course it was not a rule, but the well-established generalization ordered Touma to be cautious, especially with his bad luck, when it came to such matters.

But when it came to those girls, he had no fear. They wouldn't try anything troublesome.

"Oh, I almost forgot. I took your key for you"

Maidono extended her hand and a card jumped from Hasako's hand, flew through the air, and landed on her own palm. She then gave it to Touma.

"So, see you later"

"Yes, see you soon"

Maidono and Touma watched Hasako leave for a moment, until she was starting to fade into the distance.

Hasako had hair that was a blend of colour between black and brown, of impressive length (though not nearly as long as when Touma first met her), which for some reason had the tendency to branch itself into strands of varying widths at the level of her neck. No matter how many hairstyles she tried, or how much she combed her hair, it always happened. Initially, Hasako thought that Touma would think of that part of her looks as weird, until both Maidono and Touma convinced her that it resembled tree branches, which went well with Hasako's nature aesthetic. Since then, Hasako embraced the little quirk of her body since, as she remarked, it reminded her of the two of them.

Those days, Hasako usually allowed her hair to fall into a straight, slightly branched cascade, although today she opted for a high ponytail. It made the hair swing slightly, like a pendulum, which was partially why they kept looking for so long. It had a calming effect.

"I am really glad that we were able to meet her" Touma said" I think she has good effect on everyone"

"Say that again" Maidono nodded" I don't want to think of her not being around. She is the best friend I ever had. I only wish that I was as good of a friend for her"

"You really shouldn't underestimate yourself" Touma assured her" She often says that without you, she would never try to be more confident. You were someone who made the change into this new world bearable for her. And you often make her laugh with how brave and optimistic you are"

Maidono smiled softly, her short hair moving lightly on the breeze.

"That's a kind way to say it that I come dangerously close to impulsively messing things up. But if you two really think that, I couldn't be happier. Although she rarely tells me this."

"She is still a lady born in 1930s. She is bound to be reserved."

"I know, I know... she is polite, patient, and such... I look up to her because of those reasons"

She raised an eyebrow as she cast a sideways glance at Touma, smile not leaving her lips.

"And speaking of looking, you've been staring at me quite a bit ever since we ate."

"I wasn't staring! It makes it sound that I was doing something wrong"

"Ah-hah, so you were looking!"

Touma sped up the pace but suddenly smug Maidono did not let him go that easily. She jumped into the air, and rotated upside down while afloat, swinging her legs like a moody child.

"Come on, spill it! I won't beat you up. I am just curious. I know my belly and legs are a sight to behold but I get the feeling you weren't looking at them"

Touma knew it was better to just share his observations.

"Your hair... you look nice with your natural, short hair. You rarely show it, and the wig is cool, I like it too. But I just thought that it adds additional charm"

"Really? I always thought that it looks really bland. But thanks" Maidono gave him a small, affectionate punch the arm" Seriously, no one called me nice-looking before you."

"Just saying that this look has potential" Touma was about to open the door leading into the building, when he felt Maidono grab his hand from behind. She touched the ground and spoke in serious, emotion-filled voice.

"I am not joking. For the longest time... I thought that I was defected, someone who killed and destroyed everything and everyone she loved, bland girl who was meant to always be alone and who could never truly function well with others, someone whose only redeeming quality was her raw power. Thanks to you, I got friends, I felt like my ability had a true purpose, and... you made me feel like a beautiful woman. Not some hopeless case with not functioning fingers, but someone who can shine with her own style. I will always be thankful for all of that"

"I didn't do anything to make you realize it" Touma waved to Maidono and spoke with a smile as they separated to go into their apartments" I knew you had it in you all along. That's why I wanted you to never to be a dark sider ever again"

As Touma opened the doors to his apartment, stepping inside for the first time in half of a year, Maidono pressed her hand to her chest and chuckled merrily.

"No, you are wrong" she whispered, more to herself than to anyone else" You did everything, even if those weren't some epic, world-shattering actions. In that moment, you trusted me. You shared and empathized with me. It was more than anyone ever gave me. And it was due to this trust of someone who saw me as me that I will treasure the fact that I love you each and every day."

(MEANWHILE)

Touma changed into his interior slippers that were still in their usual place and walked into the living room.

He barely entered the space when he was promptly embraced by familiar softness and warmth.

"Welcome home" Rikuri cooed, nuzzling him slightly and giving him a kiss on the neck. As always, it made him very much aware of his bodily reactions.

However, it was clear that the eldest sister opted for a wholesome homecoming experience as she bent away with a sweet smile and apron on her voluptuous body.

Well, it looked as if a housewife and a scientist fused together in a most whacky way imaginable. Rikuri sported fashionable reddish-pink glasses she used during the work. Nestled on her luscious hair were goggles, lenses appearing slightly smudged. She wore cute and fluffy pink slippers. Her apron had a chemical compound on it with words 'CHEMIST WIFE IS IN THE HOUSE' underneath.

Rikuri noted his gaze and explained

"I think disinfecting the wounds and caring for scrapes are what good onee-san should do. This is hydrogen peroxide, H2O2. I think it fits nicely"

While as the senior onee-san enjoyer, Touma could agree that treating scrapes by mature woman would be a caring action that would certainly win some points in his book, the reason he had to forcibly tear away his attention was the fact that the oxygen atoms in the molecule were positioned directly over Rikuri's breasts, which seemed to be a recurring theme with the outfits revolving around chemical jokes that Rikuri custom-ordered.

Her not so subtle wink told him that she was so doing it on purpose.

"Would you like something to eat? I perfected my cooking skills over the months. I wouldn't want to... ehm, send you into another coma out of disappointment or food poisoning... I tried to have a few reactions to enrich the flavour, but got a bit overexcited with you coming home after so long, that got my hand shaking... and we got a few explosions in the kitchen. That's why I may smell like smoke and..."

As he listened to Rikuri ramble and explain why the chemical experiment went wrong, Touma felt relaxation hit him hard. He felt like he didn't realize earlier how much he missed the sisters, and those little moments.

Of course, Rikuri was a bombshell of a beauty and was off the charts attractive young woman, but it was that side of her, those ramblings, that blend of excitement and maturity, the way her hands moved, searching something to work with, how she hugged herself as if she couldn't contain the giddiness, how her eyes sparkled and her cheeks coloured up when he addressed him, her shapely hips swaying as if she had a super top secret intel she wanted to share and could not wait to do so... it was so very endearing.

Rikuri was one of the most lethal and ruthless women Touma knew when someone was her enemy. But being on her good side, you got a full experience of her quirkiness, her elaborate knowledge and curiosity, and a proper older sister attitude of care, all wrapped in a gorgeous body and fiercely lethal determination to keep her family safe

Only four things could get her like that: Chemistry, especially poisons. Robotics. Her sisters. And last, but not least, Touma himself.

"Whatever you make will be great, but maybe later, I just ate.

He cleared his throat and addressed more important issue.

And also... I heard that you did your best to help in my treatment. I didn't really have the chance to thank you. It seems I have a lot of thanks to give but I want to start here"

Rikuri paused, looking at him, before her lip quivered slightly and she pulled him back into the hug.

"Oh, you have nothing to thank for. You are family. We might have started off on the wrong foot, but you impressed me even then... not to mention that so much happened and... I love you. I decided to give your feelings time to form into any direction they chose fit and I will respect them, but this onee-san will always do her utmost for you, both with her body and mind."

Her hug tightened slightly, and tremble permeated her entire body.

"I was so scared that we lost you... I am not ashamed to admit that I think I cried my weight in tears. I probably looked pathetic like that, ehehe... I cannot fully immerse myself in action like Amazora, nor I am as calm and collected as Kaibi. But I hoped and wished for you to be back here... I was not ready how broken we all felt when you were gone. I thought we were used to death... I certainly gave people some array of horrible ends... but you are family. You are the man I love, you are someone we all have our hearts opened for."

"I am so sorry" Touma muttered, touched by her words" I left you all alone to pursue my virtue, not minding you. It must have been terrrible."

"We respected what you did because, as Kaibi-chan put it, it was due to those qualities that she fell for you. And I wholeheartedly agree. Oh... and there is someone who also made a lot of effort around here"

"I cannot believe you, Rikuri nee-san! ONII-CHAN IS HERE?!"

Touma heard sounds of running, and Rikuri separated from him just on time for a flying human missile that was Amazora rammed into his stomach.

"GUH!"

Touma fell on one knee as Amazora pointed upward, exclaiming:

"Onii-chan, why couldn't you come sooner? I was so excited that you will be coming back home that I couldn't sleep and then spent all morning getting all pretty for you"

"Wow. That seems like then end of the world. I mean, you never cared about it all that much" Touma said jokingly.

Amazora crossed her arms, with a small smirk of her own.

"Well, I wasn't mature, older-than-she-looks lady before. People change"

"And yet they also stay the same. I missed you, you little firecracker. Well, maybe I should stop treating you like such a child now, with you being older, and actually growing a bit"

"Does that mean-" Amazora's eyes lit up.

"No" came the answer from Touma and Rikuri

"Hey! I didn't even finish asking-"

"There is only one thing you can be asking about with those eyes" Rikuri replied swiftly" And the answer is still no"

"Hmph, this is no fun at all"

"Well, on the other hand..." Touma reached forward and pulled the youngest Gokusai into a hug" I am here now. For you. When I fully recover, we will have some of the greatest times ever. Not only oysters, video games, or shooting, but all the fun things you can think of. I know that you must have feel awful..."

Amazora puffed out her chest, putting on a smug facade

"Oh please, I knew you would come back all along. You promised and my onii-chan would never break a promise that important"

"Now now, Amazora" Rikuri nudged her sibling gently" We both know that this is not the only thing you felt. Don't you have something to show and tell to Touma?"

Amazora stepped from one foot to the other, visibly unprepared for Rikuri's suggestion. But she finally grabbed Touma's hand and took him a few steps into the room, next to the table and with the view on the wall.

"When you were gone, I wanted everyone to know how amazing you were... I didn't want anyone to forget you... because... then maybe it would reach you and you would wake up... I knew it was stupid, but Itsuki-san talked to you a lot and so did Kaibi onee-chan, so I thought this would work. I started by making sure that we would never stop waiting for you to come back... that you never left..."

Touma was currently looking at the wall, that gained quite a few pictures. He recognized them, but he was certain they weren't on the display before... or in fact, that they were never made into tangible, non-digital photographs before he went into a coma.

One in the middle was their classic portrait, with Touma being squished next to half-flustered, half-panicked and flushed Kaibi, with Amazora posing on Touma's legs with a wink, and Rikuri hugging everyone with bright, beaming smile.

Touma saw this photo a few times, and he knew Rikuri had in on her lockscreen.

But while he had the idea where the other photos were made, he never saw them before.

A photo of the three of them on the beach, with Rikuri laying down on the towel, Kaibi swimming in the distance, while Touma and Amazora splashed each other in the water.

A photo of their trip to Italy, with three of them in ski gear, and riding down the slope.

A photo of outing to the shopping mall, which managed to capture the moment when Touma fell straight onto Kaibi due to Amazora slightly nudging him and causing the bought clothes to overbalance.

Another one, where Rikuri sneakily ate the piece of dinner Touma was meaning to hand-feed to Amazora. The photo showed Rikuri's coy eyes, Amazora's absolute outrage, and Kaibi facepalming so hard that it was almost heard through the still image.

As Touma looked at the wall filled with pictures, he felt his eyes water slightly.

'We... really were making so many good memories.'

They were random and chaotic, and could cause quite a big of a headache, and yet... it made him so happy.

Onsen. Forest. Museum. Bowling. Shooting range. Restaurant. So many different settings, so many different stories.

A photo of Touma and Kaibi enjoying ice cream together, with adorably blushing Measure Heart trying to get a bit of cream from his cheek.

A photo of Rikuri giving Touma kiss on the cheek in front of the art gallery while holding an award for the most innovative art collection.

A photo of Amazora holding Touma up with her ability with a grin on her face in front of the sunset, after the two of them went out together in the park.

Among the photos of the four of them were also a lots of photos with their family and friends.

Photos of them together with Oriana, who was often either holding Amazora high into the air or sultrily pressing herself next to Touma, with her eyes happy and playful. She and Rikuri were often on his two sides, which only multiplied their likeness, since they often looked like mirror reflections.

Touma noticed Yua on some of the photographs. The Gokusai matriarch appeared much more awkward there, as if she was unsure how close she should stand, but nevertheless was present in the groups, with Rikuri encouragingly taking her hand.

There was a photo of Touma being hugged by Hasako and Maidono.

Touma looking cautiously at something Kaai, Rikuri, and Yakumaru made together, with the chemists looking more than frazzled and smoked. Despite that, Itsuki was captured doing the hair flip that even in her state looked rather alluring.

Touma and Youen in greenhouse of Hasako's making, surrounded by butterflies.

Touma and Index sleeping together on the couch, the nun's head resting on the boy's shoulder.

Touma trying to break the argument between Naru and Maria, who went into spiralling discussion about maid outfits.

A photo of Hasako and Ayu conversing over tea, while Kumokawa Seria and Shokuhou Misaki apparently wanted to play a tug of war with Kamijou Touma as a rope in the background, pulling onto his arms.

Touma watching Index and Amazora fervently playing video games together.

Series of photos showcasing Touma resting on the couch, Niang-Niang materializing on his lap, and him falling backwards with a scream.

Touma between three female level 5s, with Mikoto, Misaki, and Mugino discussing something with him.

Mugino feeding Touma salmon in the place she specifically rented for cooking with her.

Touma together with Hamazura and Gunha trying out games in the arcade.

Touma walking alongside Junko and Gunha as they headed to the swimming pool.

Hasako and Touma enjoying the picnic in nature, with Beginning Child telling him of her dreams of enriching the Earth's beauty.

Touma and Maidono in the gym, training alongside one another, with telekinesis user assisting and spotting Touma through both her ability and body, while the boy instructed her on the further refinement of the hand to hand combat.

Touma being surprised by Nephthys putting hands over his eyes and whispering into his ear, the latter in her Nebena Hettori persona, enraging the visible crowd of both males and females alike.

Touma posing in front of the carnival attractions with Amazora, Helcalia, and Asashima Yume.

The group photo in Haloween costumes, done in front of the tent where the contests took place.

Amazora dressing up Othinus in doll clothes and former Magic God stomping her tiny foot angrily

Sphynx resting in the patch of sunlight, with resigned Othinus under his paw.

Index enjoying the dinner that Rikuri made for her.

Kaibi preparing herself for the day, with Touma helping to comb her hair, the middle sister sporting the relaxed and loving expression.

The time all four of them went to play paintball and all the drama that was the game.

Naru's clothes bursting into paper when Imagine Breaker brushed against them for the n-th time.

Yakumaru talking to him in the hospital, while he floated in the tube.

And the big photo of all of the people living in their apartment complex together, with few additional guests.

There were so, so many photographs, almost in a collage-like fashion, in front of the awe-struck and amazed Touma.

"How..." he finally found his words" How did you do that? I don't remember photograph being taken in majority of those events!"

Rikuri put her hand on Amazora's shoulder.

"Amazora had the plan to show you how much your presence in her life has meant for her. So she got the idea of having an entire timeline of photos showing how much your presence in our lives. I desgined a lot of specialized drones to take those photos in secret... I hope you are not mad about that part, but it wouldn't be a good surprise otherwise"

Amazora gave Touma a smile that was much more soft and subdued that her usual chaotic grins.

"When you were out of it... in a coma... we made all of this. I wanted to make sure you are still with us"

"It's true..." Rikuri added, showing the t-Shirt under her apron. A t-shirt with the same group photo that was on the wall" She tried to do her utmost to cultivate your presence"

"I went to the city to fight bad guys too... because you weren't there. Even if I wasn't the hero, I wanted to step up and act. Because I admired you for so long. I didn't think I could be like you, and that's why I thought I could never do it, but since you weren't around-"

"I have to admit, she was quite effective. Kaibi had no idea for the longest time and Amazora acutally managed to get some troublemakers for the Anti-Skill to catch"

Touma shook his head in disbelief.

"I would never want you to stick your neck out for my me due to my mistakes-"

"But onii-chan" Amazora interrupted him, firmly" Both in my time searching for you alongside Calia, and during the time in which you were in the coma, I realized that I was terribly selfish. For realsies! I only demanded things of you, wanted to pamper me, and wanted more, and more, and more of your attention. Well... those things are great. But you are more to me than just a dispenser of anything I need at the moment. I love you, and I just wanted to give you something for once... because I realize that one day, I might not have a chance anymore... and it made me so sad..."

"After she wanted to document your impact on us, we all put in some. But since she was the one to start it, we named this project Gokusai Chronicles. Or, as it may be another way to put it... Painted Prison Chronicles." Rikuri smiled looking at the wall" So, what do you think?"

Touma exhaled, feeling lone tears falling down his cheeks.

"This... this is awesome. I don't know what to say. You didn't have... I mean, I am thankful... for everything. Not only for those photos, but for all the moments we had."

"Don't mention it. We are family now, it's only natural"

Something like this was more important to Kamijou Touma than many would assume.

He didn't really have much memories he could recall in comparison to how long he actually lived... if one decided to not count the repressed memories of nigh-infinite torture and torment in endless string of phases.

So showing him something like that was bound to made him a little emotional.

When he regained his bearings, he asked Rikuri

"Speaking of family... where is Kaibi?"

"She and Mitsuari-san are resting near the pool."

"Resting? Did something happen?"

"Probably better if you talk to them yourself"

"And did anything else happen when I was away?"

"You mean for six months..."

"No, last few days? Someone came over here?"

"Yes, a hair with a brown hair and blue eyes. I told her that you weren't here" Amazora replied dryly.

'Reiri-san was looking for me?'

Touma got the impression that Amazora would tell the former Tokiwadai student that even if he was here. She was just protective like that.

Was Reiri-san that curious about him? She gave him her number. Was that a subtle way to tell him to contact her? Or maybe she was simply worried?

"What about Index?"

"She and Othinus-san are out to buy some things for the dinner. I think Itsuki-san and Maria-san are also preparing something nice to celebrate your homecoming"

"Oh, I am sure that it will be delic... wait... Index... is doing shopping?" Touma could not believe what he just heard.

"More like assisting Othinus-san, who handles the shopping. Usually Yakumaru-san would buy things for Maria-san to cook, but today, they wanted to get ingredients for dinner"

"I see..."

"Why do you ask?"

"I wanted to talk to Index about something... but maybe I should wait for the better moment, when everything calms down with me coming back and such..."

And with that, Touma, deep in thought, walked into the corridor, at the end of which were the doors reading to the adjacent pool complex.

(FEW MINUTES LATER)

"Hey there you t-... woah, no kidding, you really are spent!"

Gokusai Kaibi and Mitsuari Ayu lied on the sunbeds, their face looking bleak and passive.

"What happened to you? Are you feeling alright?"

"Well..." Kaibi sighed, getting up and facing him" I definitely do now, seeing you. Welcome home. Sorry if we are a bit unslightly, but it's okay, we are just a little tired and annoyed."

"Touma..." Ayu slowly rose up and wobbled towards him past Kaibi like a zombie, before pressing her face into his chest" Save me... those two are just terrible..."

"Those two?" Touma asked cluelessly, embracing Ayu who was still hugging him and apparently was very content with staying in that position.

Kaibi shot Mental Stinger a glare, but for now, she was apparently too tired to argue about it.

"She means Shokuhou-san and Kumokawa-san. You see, we are part of the group that will oversee your mental recovery. I am sure that tomorrow we will have more time to explain this to you, but to make things short, Mental Out and Ayu-san will try to help your mental stability from within your psyche, while we... that is, me and Kumokawa-san... will guide the process by constructed chain of external questions... we apparently need help from Nephthys-san too, even if we are yet to see exactly why..."

"Okay, I won't say that I understand all of it, but it all sounds alright. Where is the problem?"

"Well, getting to that elegant plan and polishing up the details only took us few hours because those two high and mighty princesses spent them arguing with each other. It's such a relief to get it done..."

"Mmmmm..." came a slight whimper of pleasure muffled by Touma's chest.

" and a miracle that we got... we got...

"Aooohhhh..."

"... that... we got somewhere in the end... ALRIGHT, YOU ARE DEFINITELY ENJYOING YOURSELF A BIT TOO MUCH FOR A SIMPLE HUG!"

After a bit of struggling, Touma resigned himself to the fate of hugging Kaibi with one arm and Ayu with the other, to quench the risk of Measure Heart strangling Mental Stinger.

"Seriously though" muttered Mitsuari, her voice muffled by Touma's chest" I understand why Shokuhou can come off as annoying... I've been her most vehement hater for the longest time... but even I wouldn't have the strength to butt heads that much!"

"I second that" Kaibi agreed" In majority of the situation, I would alter the emotional distance ages ago and get the hell away. Working with people I cannot control is challenging. But I suppose that this goes for all four of us"

"Well... but that's behind us. Tomorrow, you will be in very capable hands of yours truly"

"Well, I am going to trust you all on this. I knew that whatever you came up with, will surely help me"

Two girls smiled at that

"It's very nice for you to say that" Ayu nodded" We won't let you down"

"I am going to make sure you come out of it better than ever" Kaibi stated resolutely.

Then they both let go of Touma and looked him in the eyes.

"You... really came back. I didn't doubt but I was sure that with my luck, I will lose you again..." Ayu said to Touma with voice filled with relief" But you are back in front of me..."

"I am back" Touma nodded" And it's good to be with everyone once again. I know it must have been a long time for you... even though for me it seems as if it all happened yesterday... I will still probably learn of many things that happened in the time I was comatose"

At the same time, Kaibi looked at Touma with sarcastic quirkiness he learned to see in her eyes, which was now accompanied by compassionate charm, that slowly came to the surface ever since she confessed to him.

"I am not going to cry now" she remarked" Given what we are set to do in regards to your mind, they will probably be plenty of moments to do that, as unfortunate as this may be. But, I want you to know this. Whatever you do from now on, I am going to make sure you will stay strong. And just because my feelings were heavily guarded for so long should not be an excuse for not acting on them now. If we can lose you any day due to some foolish, yet heroic action of yours, then I must make sure to do everything in my power to aid you. And if I ultimately fail at that, the least I can do is to make sure that you are loved till the end. I am done seeking pretense"

She closed her eyes and kissed him softly on the lips. It was short, but it managed to startle Touma and evoke a cry of outrage from Ayu

"Hey, and you said I was having too much fun?!"

"Well, I just didn't want to be excluded" Kaibi winked at fellow mental specialist" I said it. I wanted to punctuate my loyalty with something... special"

"Alright, then let's see the special I am going to give him now!"

But unfortunately (or maybe fortunately, given the fight that was bound to result from competitive flirting), Touma didn't learn in that moment what Ayu had in mind.

The window next to them broke and the colourful explosions filled the room.

After the smoke cleared and the girls stopped coughing, they noticed that Touma was gone.

"W-What happened? Was Touma kidnapped"

"Yup"

"W-We must save him then"

"No, there is no need. There is only one person who can make the entrance so obnoxiously over the top and fortunately, it's a complete moron who also happens to love Touma like a brother"

(MEANWHILE)

Sogiita Gunha grinned, carrying Touma away like a sack of potatoes, cheered with joy

"Hah! It worked!"

"S-Sogiita! What the hell... what worked?"

"You are not getting away from us that easily"

"Us?"

"Me and the guys! Girls can't have your guts all for themselves. That's why we are taking you to the onsen"

And so, Touma, barely able to register what was going on, found himself, with very sudden flow of events, inside the hot springs, surrounded by bunch of his male friends.

It in fact was so sudden that Touma only now realized who was around him. The boys lied in the water in the relaxed position.

Besides Gunha, there were...

"Tsuchimikado?"

"Hey, Kami-yan!"

"Aogami?"

"Sup?"

"Hamazura?"

"How is it going boss?"

"Kakine-san?"

"Hello, Kamijou"

Touma then noticed a monitor on the side of the steamy room, displaying thin teen sitting in his own tub.

"Accelerator? Are you streaming from prison?"

"No, hero, I am in the luxurious spa in Paris~... of course I am in prison, where the hell can I be?"

"You agreed to this?"

"I wouldn't... but this idiot" Accelerator pointed at lazily drifing Tsuchimikado" Kept using the private communication channel with have, spamming the notification about your celebratory outing with the guys, or some shit like that. Even reflecting sound only helped for a while, so I finally gave up"

Touma looked even further through the steam, to notice...

"Unabara-san... and Kamisato?! What the hell?!"

"We also wanted to get Stiyl and Thor, but couldn't find them."

"It's Etzali, actually" the mesoamerican magician sighed, shaking his head like a wet dog" And Tsuchimikado dragged me here"

"Oh, like you weren't going to mope in Aztec Orchid again."

"I... I certainly would not!"

"It's not like I wanted to be here!" Kamisato screamed, before submerging himself into the hot water.

"Okay, that sounded way too tsundere for my liking, now I won't get this out of my mind. It's been a while... " Touma began awkwardly.

"Not long enough..." came the distorted voice with the burst of bubbles.

"So... why?"

"Because... I may not agree with you, but I am not a jerk who wouldn't honour someone's memory."

"Aww, he was sad for you..."

"BE QUIET!"

"Yeah, Kamijou. Apparently, quite a few people from around the world gathered when six month mark of your coma were to pass" Kakine added.

"Yeah, I saw, but the scale still boggles me..."

And I just happened to be here, taking a bath! I am an innocent victim in all of this-"

"OH SHUT THE HELL UP" this time, it was Accelerator who raised his voice" No one wants to listen to your whining. If you don't want to stay, then leave"

"Come on, Kamisato-san. Drink with us" Hamazura pulled out cans of various beverages and opened them with the satisfying hiss" The more, the merrier. Don't be a party pooper. I for one thing love to hang up in guy squad. I would die for them and we are very close, but being surrounded by girls all the time can be stressful"

"Say that again" Accelerator's groan came through the screen" The brat can be bearable, but the rest can be a fucking mess. I will always protect them, but damn it, they can be all over the place"

"For some reason, I do seem to enjoy the attention of Fremea's friends..." Kakine said in bewilderment" It is not annoying, just... confusing at times"

"At least we can agree on something" Kamisato, apparently deciding against leaving, looked at Touma" Although that can be debatable, given that you embrace harem life"

"First of all, so do you, as much as you keep denying it. Second of all, I think having all of them around enriches my life."

"Lousy excuse"

"Are you hearing yourself?"

"Okay, guys, there is no need to fight" Hamazura once again took a mediating position"

The round of can handling finished and everyone awaited the toast.

"To boss." Hamazura raised his can" So that he never leave us and enjoys long happy life"

After everyone drunk their gulp, Tsuchimikado added

"Yeah, Kami-yan, don't scare us like that. Everyone was starting to... well, chances of you waking up were decreasing with each day. Even our criminal highness was worried so much that his eyes turned red, nya"

"For your information, my eyes can't exactly get any redder" Accelerator spat venomously" And even from here, I can bring down your roof onto you with careful calculations, so watch it"

"But you are here now!" Gunha grabbed Touma in the headlock" Seriously, the city was too quiet because of you!"

"Does it mean that the city was more peaceful when I was away?" Touma asked hopefully

"Yes and no." Accelerator said" You meddle in many things, so some things weren't stopped as easily, but some of the people causing trouble do so because they want something to do with you, so in that regard, it was better"

"GUYS!"

Everyone turned to Aogami, who cried out to get their attention, sporting a very serious and dramatic face.

"That's all very nice and good, safety and friendship are all so greeat... but shouldn't we address the biggest issue? Namely..."

He swam to Touma and grabbed him by the shoulders

"HOW THE HELL DID YOU MANAGE TO GET A LITERAL AVALANCHE OF GIRLS FOLLOW YOU THROUGH THE CITY, YOU BASTARD?!"

"That was so incredible. Such a gutsy sight, the passion could be felt even from so far!" Gunha plunged his fist in the water, causing it shoot high into the air.

"In all honesty, the mere fact that you managed to unify despite the earlier divisions, reaching even times of some in the darkness, is nothing short of impressive or even miraculous, in all honesty" Kakine nodded, his head scattering reflexes of light bouncing of his Dark Matter body.

"You are going to give me a bloody migrane" Accelerator groaned" Can't you sit in the onsen quietly, like how one is supposed to?"

But his words fell on deaf ears.

"Yeah, Kami-yan, teach us your secret" Tsuchimikado poked Touma, who wasn't at all happy with the shift in topic.

This could only end badly, after all.

"There is no secret. How could I anticipate that they will go berserk like that?"

"It's one more point to my argumentation that harem is evil-"

"YOU. HAVE. A. HAREM!" Touma roared at Kamisato." How can you not see it?"

"Boss, I don't think you should lecture anyone about not seeing that he is interesting." Hamazura interjected" I mean, I know that you two have all the 'I am a normal high school boy' thing going on, but I am actually normal and I think even I would notice if so many girls started to be interested in me"

"Also, I know I am not all that well-acquainted, compared to others" Kakine raised his finger questioningly" But what exactly we describe as normal here? You can have this peculiar right hand"

"So does he" Touma pointed at Kamisato.

"And he has bunch of cool dragons inside him"

" Hero would survive a meteor falling on him through some bullshit, that's how normal he is"

"NOT TO FORGET THAT NO NORMAL BEING WOULD HAVE THOUSANDS OF GIRLS AROUND HIM!"

"CAN YOU STOP SCREAMING, YOU BLUE HAIRED DEVIANT?!"

"In all honesty, I am so relieved that I only have one girlfriend" Hamazura nodded with a smile.

"Dude... this is cruel..." Aogami pointed at Hamazura" Those two monsters of harem genere are one thing..."

"HEY!" Touma and Kamisato protested

"... but if you have relatively normal situation, stop talking as if we understand, because not everyone here has a partner"

"Exactly! I completely agree." echoed Etzali" Why do you even argue about attention of girls? You are so lucky for someone to like you at all. How dense one has to be to not notice someone like him and then, still go for something that can never work?"

Tsuchimikado looked at his fellow GROUP member very carefully.

"Really? You want to say that? You?"

"Yeah, you know my situation. What did I say?" Etzali asked with no realization.

"You are accusing him of being dense and not noticing someone else's feelings?"

"Yeah?"

"You literally have a wife waiting for you, you just can't see it, can you?"

"What are you talking about? You know that Mikoto-san loves him, don't you? Way to rub it in my face. Who is waiting for me?"

(ELSEWHERE)

Xochitl let out a sharp sneeze while cleaning the floor of Aztec Orchid.

"Excuse me" she muttered, rubbing her nose.

"Mitzilnāmiquicān" came the upbeat voice of Tochtli from behind the counter.

She offered her older friend old-fashioned nahuatl blessing that meant more or less 'they are thinking about you', in reference to the superstitious cause of the sneezes shared by both aztecs and japanese.

Suddenly grumpy, Xochitl commented on it:

"Someone may be thinking about me... if only it was someone who actually mattered, because it sure as hell isn't him!"

"Oh come on, Chitli" Tochtli scooted over, using her friend's diminutive nickname" Don't worry, or your pretty face will get all wrinkly from anger"

"Worry? Etzali can make his own breakfasts, get his own coffee for broken heart, and go on a romantic walks with his beloved japanese princess for all I care"

"Yeah..." Tochtli carefully backed away from Xochitl, who emanated full angry wife aura she was capable of" I didn't mention Etzali though..."

"I am fine, see? I am working my hardest"

"Yeah, I can see... actually, if you rub this table any harder, I am pretty sure the wood will be damaged..."

"I am working so there can't be anything wrong!"

"Emm... workaholism from broken heart is also a thing... you know, I am your oldest friend. If you are upset, you can just say some-"

"Upset? Silly, silly Tochtli, why would I be upset?"

"You are about to cry..."

"Dust got to my eyes. I better go wash it out..."

As she got into the backroom, Tochtli managed to hear

"For one to have broken heart, there should be a relationship that can be broken..."

Tochtli sighed and shook her head.

"I think this atmosphere creates a rather tense working environment. Xochitl really loves him, but he has his eyes for another and it is super hopeless... she is getting more and more frustrated by the day. I kind of get it, she was close to him from early age, and travelled the world to follow him only to find he fell in love with someone who can't possibly love him back... still, if this continues, it will be so unbearable for everyone. I am friend of both of them... what can I do here..."

Tochtli thought for a moment, and then one of the light bulbs (they still needed to fix it) flickered and lit above her head

"Hmm... this might just work..."

(AT THE SAME TIME)

"I have to see his face when the realization strikes him one day" Tsuchimikado said quietly to himself, shaking his head.

Meanwhile, Gunha, who in his earnest nature had absolutely no idea what was going on, said

"Can't he simply enjoy everyone?"

"Gunha, mind the context, that's not what they are talking-"

"Kami-yan! Are you infecting Gunha-san with your harem power? If you are, why not share it with us?"

"I am not infecting anyone with anything, I don't have any power of that kind"

"Don't you? It doesn't seem natural for someone to gather that much attention all at once" Kakine mused out in a neutral tone of scientific curiosity.

"Well, I think we need to give credit to boss, he is a great man who always wants to get everyone to be happy. I think that alone is an attractive quality"

"Thank you!" Touma's heart soared with gratitude...

"Although, I have to admit, I am curious about one thing: do you have any favourite out of the girls that like you?"

... and then this gratitude turned straight into dread.

"Okay, I am out" Accelerator raised his hands into the air" I didn't sign up for this kind of fucking drama"

With that the screen went dark.

But Touma's worry didn't end.

"G-Guys, this is a very difficult thing to say when it's thrown onto you like that-"

"So you are saying that Misaka is not good enough for you?"

"So you are saying that Gokusai is not good enough for you?"

Touma recoiled from simultaneous and suprisingly vocal inputs of Etzali and Kakine.

"No, that's not..."

Hamazura internally apologized for opening Pandora's box for his friend. He really didn't mind his question to turn out like this.

"You know, Kami-yan... it seems like you are simply enjoying all of them and want to have all of them. And that's just cannot stand. YOU NEED TO BE PUNISHED!"

Before Touma knew it, he was plunged into the water. Aogami, Kamisato, and Etzali actively got very invested in it, Gunha jumped in because it seemed exciting, while the rest watched... well, until soap and towels smacked around started hitting them and the battle soon escalated over the entire pool.

(ONE HOUR LATER)

Hokaze Junko was gracefully strolling through the city streets. Since the hour was getting late, she was returning to her dorm, when at the edge of her vision.

It was excellent, since she was looking for him

"Kamijou-san!" she cheerfully called to him

"Oh, Hokaze-san?"

"Pardon me for bothering you, but I was asked... waah?!"

She put a hand to her lips, and pointed at Touma

"My goodness, what happened to your face?"

Touma's face was bright red, and not because any form of blushing.

"Ah, that? A little bit of a difference of opinion between me and my friends. Quite literally a heated debate. Not to worry, I heal fast"

In fact, it was due to Kamisato and Aogami holding him underwater for a moment. Touma got revenge by judo-throwing Aogami with a resounding 'slam' and his foot finding way to Kamisato's face.

Junko sighed.

"Dear me, the pastimes of gentlemen are always a bit of a mystery to me"

"Feel free to not learn from my example" Touma joked and looked at the ringlet curl girl" I think you needed something from me"

"Oh, right" Junko nodded" My Queen wants to inform you that she, Kumokawa-san, Gokusai-san, and Mitsuari-san will commence the 'mental recovery' tommorow, and that you should get good night rest before that. She turned in already to be in the peak of her ability for you"

"Oh... I see. Thanks for telling me that. I hope you didn't run around, looking for me"

"Oh no, I just went for the walk, looking around. I was just going back to the dorms, and if I didn't meet you now, I would contact you by the phone. Do tell, where are you going right now?"

"Hmm... my friends invited me to a sleepover, and I am supposed to meet them in front of my apartment complex"

"If I am not mistaken, it's not that far from School Garden. If you allow me to carry you, it would be much faster"

"No, I will just go by-"

"You are limping slightly"

"I wouldn't say limping, it's just I got kicked there really hard and it is just uncomfortable... but it's fine..."

"No, that simply won't do. Please, allow me"

Before Touma knew it, Junko lifted him in her arms. With Imagine Breaker away from her, she lifted him with the boost of her ability.

"Now, that's better."

"Alright, that's kind of embarrassing"

"Nonsense, I do it for my Queen all the time and- ack!"

Suddenly, Junko winced and put a hand to her head, Touma almost falling down as a result.

"Hokaze-san? What's wrong?"

"I... I don't know..." Junko's voice suddenly sounded confused" I had that... sharp pain in my head. Like a fusion of nausea and migraine spike."

She flinched, her body shuddering.

"T-There it is again... oh my, I did have such episodes in the past, when I was learning to use my ability, but my Queen made them stop reemerging... why on earth is this happening after all this time?"

Thinking about it later, Touma knew that what he did next was instinctual.

All he understood was that Junko was in discomfort and he wanted to help her.

'If this pain is due to her ability, then maybe...'

As if in trance, he reached upward and his right hand found its way to rest on Junko's head.

The influence of Rampage Dress vanished causing Touma to fall down. Junko collapsed on her knees.

"T-The pain is... gone..." she whispered, incredulously" What happened?"

"I can't say that I do... but..." Touma, also shocked by what just transpired, looked at the girl's violet eyes" Why are you crying?"

'Did I do something to upset her? I don't think so, but what if something happened because she held me like that?'

"E-Eh? Am I?" Junko touched her face to feel her cheeks starting to become wet with tears" O-Oh... h-how peculiar... excuse me. I am crying without knowing why. Yet I... can't help but think that I know that feeling of relief... I don't know why though..."

They stayed in that position for a moment, before Touma slowly removed the head from the ojou-samas head.

Something flashed in Junko's eyes. If Touma didn't know better, it looked almost like... disappointment. With a sniff, she wiped her eyes and smiled unsurely to him.

She suggested they tried again. After a moment of hesitation, Touma agreed.

Mysterious pain didn't manifest itself this time and Junko, jumping and leaping through the streets with Touma in her arms, didn't complain about anything else, nor did she comment on what happened.

But both of them were far from calm on the inside, because whatever happened was unexplainable for both sides, so sudden and abrupt that both Touma and Junko wanted to have the answer.

(MEANWHILE IN TOKIWADAI)

Shokuhou Misaki was in bed, but contrary to her plans, she could not sleep.

After hour or so of tossing and turning in her sheets, she attempted to do something she normally did not do: she went outside, into the garden.

That was incredibly dangerous and risky endeavour, with patrols from the supervisors being a thing, but Misaki was confident that she could sneak outside. And so she did. She truly needed to clear her head in the night air.

As sneaked out of the building, yawning and trying to make do with the golden mess of an uncombed hair behind her back, she noticed Bologna Succubus, perched behind the window like a big, incredibly well-endowed and sexily demonic pigeon, clearly trying to get into the room that Misaki just left from the outside.

"Pssst!" Misaki called out to the older blond." Get down from there!"

When succubus didn't react, Misaki attempted to throw a pebble at Bologna's back to make her notice her

Of course, Mental Out's general lack of fitness caused the pebble to not only fail in reaching its intended target, but slowing its ascent, before quickly descending, striking Misaki right between the eyes.

However, fortune in misfortune, cry of pain this elicited caught attention to the demonic Transcendent, who then flew down to earth.

"Oh, there you are"

"What are you doing here?" Misaki hissed out, both from pain and annoyance" It's late. I can alter memories and otherwise avoid detection, but if someone sees you-"

"I won't be here for long... I just wanted to say few things" Bologna replied quickly.

Misaki sighed as they moved onto the path in the garden. Then, they both sat on one of the benches.

"For years I had no leisure ability to have a mother in my life, as even the woman who I assumed to be by mother kept her distance, and now you keep popping up like that?"

"Thanks to Niang-Niang" Bologna began" we know the truth know. And it's not like I could truly know. You were hidden from me and with my conception troubles, I fully believed that my baby was stillborn... I really wish I checked but I was convinced I couldn't take it..."

"I know." Misaki agreed, her starry eyes looking at heart-shaped irises of Bologna" Dad really had some crudeness ability in this resolution. Wanting to cover up the affair like that?"

"Don't be too hard on your father" Bologna shook her head" He is a remarkable and very admirable man, I truly wish him well, even if it could not work out on the long run. Back then, he wasn't nearly as rich or influential as he is now, and I was just a magician like many others, without anything otherworldly visible at first glance... despite my looks that is. Like all people at some point of their lives, we got a bit too invested in something that had no way of working... I mean, I am not blaming him for falling for me, I was very, very convincing, if you know what I mean..."

Misaki gave her mother a flat look. Bologna cleared her throat and resumed. She shifted her weight from one leg to the other, her tail coiling and moving behind her.

"I don't want to bother you needlessly, but please, listen. Even if we understood what happened, I get that it doesn't mean that we are going to just jump into each other's arms. You grew up with someone else, and, reasonably, don't know what to make of it. I didn't expect to ever have children. I am not exactly the mother of the year material... sure, I know magic very well, know thing or two about righting wrongs with unjust treatment of others, I love video games and, naturally, I consider myself reasonably gifted by nature... yet being a mother is another story."

Misaki crossed her arms.

"I believe you have something else to tell me, something with less obviousness ability?"

"You are right. What I want to say is... you don't have to like me. You don't have to pretend that everything is alright, because it shouldn't be. Our situation is unusual and unexpected. But... I just want to say that if you let me, I want to make it up to you. I cannot guarantee I succeed but I want to try to be a good mom for you from now on. I know we lost some years, but... we are still young and beautiful. Let's take baby steps to see what will happen with us"

Misaki lowered her arms, finding herself listening more attentively, as Bologna continued talking.

"There is a reason to why I came to tell you this right now. Misaki, I know what you want to do tomorrow, more or less. And I wish to say that if it takes a toll on you too..."

It started to rain, droplets hitting the grass and trees around them.

The succubus unfolded and bent one of her wings so that it shielded Misaki from getting wet like an umbrella.

"What do you mean?" Misaki asked, a little puzzled.

"You and I... look alike, there is a definite physical affinity that you noticed when we first met."

Misaki nodded. In truth, for all her life, she felt uncomfortable not knowing straight up who gave her golden hair, as both her parents that raised her did not have it. She got used to believing her dad's story that he had some western relatives.

And yet, Misaki always felt like her mo... stepmother, looked at her strangely. Perhaps, as Mental Out was now realizing, because even though there was little to no resemblance to her, there could be resemblance to someone else her stepmother saw around her father in the past.

The wife of Misaki's father was not terrible to her. In fact, she tended to her every need and was always kind to her, and yet Misaki could not help but feel that there was some sort of awkwardness between them at times, to the point that Misaki was not sure if her stepmother didn't in fact feel relieved that Misaki was to stay in Academy City from rather early age.

"And yet... we are rather different, magic and science being only one of those things. Yet for all things in time of our lives that can divide us, there are things that we share: We both want to see Kamijou Touma happy and safe. And I watched you enough to know that you are determined and driven to keep those you love from harm, that you cannot stand injustice happening to those you came to treasure. That you would sacrifice your wellbeing and happiness for the sake of preserving the possibility of other's joy, even if you like to come off as unfeeling and aloof. Just like when you made a sacrifice to preserve Touma's life even if it meant you could never be with him again"

"You also performed all of those transfusions even if it meant that you could die" Misaki admitted" So... it's something I have from you?"

"That's not my point. And I cannot take credit for it in full. I would love if my genes could influence some good, but while my feelings for him changed to be genuine and personally-motivated, but back then, a lot of my decisions were made out of obligation to my Transcendent mission, that is, saving the unjustly accused. But you made those choices through your own personal growth and love you discovered in your heart. That's why my actual point is..."

She put a hand on Misaki's arm, and smiled, with surprising amount of shy tenderness for someone this sultry.

"Even though I never expected to have a daughter, and I still have long ways to go in being a mother instead of someone who... well, happened to procreate and learned about it being fruitful years later... I am happy and proud that you are my daughter, a brave, kind, strong, beautiful young woman. I could not imagine better child if I tried. I can only say that as awkwardly as I might do it, I want to make it so you may one day be happy with me too."

She stood up and unfolded her wings to full width, as the rain slowly stopped its sudden, yet ultimately short-lived downpour.

"I... see..." Misaki said, trying to hide her fast beating heart and strange feeling of coziness she felt in her chest from hearing such words." But... what does it have to do with me and the others attempting to help Touma's mental state"

Bologna put a hand on her chest and chuckled lightly. Misaki once again noticed that they smiled in almost identical way.

"Only that you are not alone. I am sure you are accustomed to being mistrusted and alone, but you don't have to carry the pain alone. Even if it will seem hopeless, I will do something to aid you, kay? Please, feel free to rely on me when you need to. That's what mothers' are ought to do, even the crappy ones like me. Hold those eyes of your high. Because stars are the way of hope, as they say"

Misaki did not really remember when exactly Bologna left, promising to see her around, and rising into the sky with the flaps of her bat-like wings.

Nor did she remember how she returned to her bedroom.

But, surprisingly, she didn't doubt the words she hear.

If she needed proof, it would be the fact that her worries were, at least temporarily, put away, and she drifted into deep, restorative sleep.

(MEANWHILE)

Not far from Misaki, Helcalia was sitting on one of the rooftops of Tokiwadai.

The girl sighed as the wind played with her silver hair. She was busy looking at the constellations, at least those visible through ever present lights of the city, when she heard the voice from behind.

"Can't sleep too? I think we have the insomnia epidemic. Though, I think we all have things on our minds now"

Misaka Mikoto, aiding herself with magnetism, found her way close to Helcalia.

"Can I join you?"

"Y-Yes, of course"

Mikoto sat down and looked at her younger colleague.

"Busy day?"

"As always now" the american girl allowed herself a small smile" I don't understand why I get so much attention. I-I am not that cute or smart compared to all of those people here"

"Don't sell yourself short" Mikoto smiled" You made a really great progress in such a short amount of time. And you certainly look great, our uniform really suits you. Reminds me of a friend I once had here. Plus you have such a unique power"

"I think most it is useful for is pushing things away..."

"It can literally pull apart spacetime if you train it hard enough. Something like this is like once in a blue moon novelty. I get that sort of attention can be overwhelming, trust me. So don't hesitate to talk to me if you need anything"

"Thank you, miss Misaka... you are too kind"

"Stop with this miss Misaka thing, call me Mikoto. We are friends now, aren't we?"

"Alright then, Mikoto. Thank you"

"And you don't have to thank me for everything. So... did you decide on the clique?"

Ever since Helcalia started to make a name for herself after joining Tokiwadai as student from abroad, few students approached with offers to join the various cliques, which included the biggest and prestigious, Shokuhou Clique. It was probably facilitated by the fact that Helcalia got to know Misaki personally.

Like Mikoto said, girls were drawn to Helcalia because of her exotic charm, mysterious ability, approachable and modest personality, and finally, because it was rather unorthodox that Helcalia was not here due to the material, but rather intellectual prestige of her family.

However, the dark energy user was more than a bit overwhelmed by this attention. It sometimes got to the point at which Helcalia used her repelling ability to make way and escape. Tokiwadai's specific social atmosphere was still a relative novelty to her, after all. So sometimes she retreated into desolate places to rest.

"I don't think I am ready for a clique membership now" Helcalia admitted" I really want to look around, explore. I think that all of this inter-clique rivalry would kind of... dampen that effort?"

"So very true!" Mikoto was more excited in that exclamation than she anticipated" I completely understand what you mean. Cliques are great, but sometimes, they feel a little too tense. I was always a freelancer, so there is no shame in taking your time"

"Well, I feel much better hearing it from you... hmm... if I can ask..."

"Yeah?"

"Why are you here?"

Mikoto paused and then scratched her head sheepishly.

"Just like you... busy day, you can say. I probably shouldn't go into details for now, but me and Kuroko... we are working on something concerning Touma and we want it to go without a hitch"

"Is there a problem with that?"

"It's about rather... emotional subject... for both of us... which we both used to divert or deny for the longest of times..."

"Oh..."

"So..." Mikoto looked up, swiftly changing the subject" Stargazing, huh? You like astronomy?"

Helcalia's eyes lit up.

"Oh yes. Mom and dad taught me constellations since I was very little and I loved space ever since. I wanted to learn all sorts of trivia so I could work with space-related things when I grow up"

"I see. I can't say I am such a passionate, but I always appreciated the night sky. In fact..."

Mikoto straightened her fingers, which let out dozens of sparks into the air.

"When I discovered my ability, my sparks seemed like stars in the sky. Seeing the actual sky helps me remember that wonder and pushes me further"

"It is quite beautiful, isn't it?"

They looked around but there was no one there

"Above you" said the disembodied voice.

And as the two girls looked at the night sky, they noticed it looked a bit odd.

Some stars got dimmer while others got brighter.

And perplexed Mikoto suddenly noticed that the celestial bodies made the outline of what appeared to be the long, shapely legs, that connected with the cluster that resembled a torso, with a group of stars resembling the head connecting with a veil of Milky Way that resembled hair to an uncanny degree. There was also a face, with two planet-like spheres, orange and blue. There were even curving arcs of stars that formed the outline of rather massive chest!

In short, the starts formed an enormous outline of a woman. A woman that, from the glimmering of the stars, appeared to be winking to them.

"What in the..." Mikoto whispered, noticing cosmos forming the silhouette of Magic God Nephthys, plastered on heavens over Tokiwadai.

It both stunned and annoyed Mikoto, because the chest on the sky appeared to be bouncing through each change of brightness.

'I learned that trick eons ago, taking the page of good old Nut. I can manifest only for those I wish to be perceived by' echoed the voice in her head' Becoming one with the universe is such a cleansing experience. I am all through which I am surrounded by and yet I remain me. From here, I can see so much... and yet there is much small things in every fragment of the sky that are worth the admiration. From here, this planet looks like a speck of light on my hand and you humans look like ants... but to me, you are as remarkable in your frail, helpless existence as the strongest of heroes'

In the next moment, a shooting star travelled across the firmament.

And when it fell, Nephthys was suddenly sitting by their side, stars fading from her skin.

She purred in delight, not minding the astonished faces of two espers.

"Hmmm... that was relaxing. How beautiful is this universe, that ancients called cosmos, that is, adorned, speckled with stars wrapped by the cloth of endless night... I didn't mean to intrude, I am just passing by in preparation for something important. I went into heavens to meditate and clear my mind, and I couldn't help but overhear you and it picked my interest."

She gently addressed Helcalia

"Why do you gaze at night sky, child?"

Helcalia gulped and spoke. By this time, she was pretty much accustomed to strange things happening around Touma and those he knew so she learned to leave her doubts for later and just go on with the conversation

"My father was an astronaut... I feel like whenever I stare at the night sky, I feel closer to him. He once said that we all came from stars... that all humans are children of stars, so when we die, our spirits return to them. Each person is born under certain sky, under certain stars, and when those stars align again, the spirits walk this earth once more..."

Nephthys listened with curiosity.

"Your father was a wise man. There is indeed a great significance and humanity's link to heavens is far greater than one can imagine..."

"But.. it's impossible. There is no way for such a configuration to repeat. It was just a tale to give hope" Mikoto shook her head.

Nephthys sighed

"And that's precisely why it was so important. And you should learn by now, Misaka Mikoto, that there is truth in every tale."

"It would take a miracle"

"It would... unless of course, you have me. We Magic Gods dream and create all the time, and our thoughts become stars" Nephthys smiled and pointed upward" Look and see if they align"

Two girls both looked up and gasped

"The stars... everything... looks different..."

"Is that..." Helcalia put a hand to her mouth, her eyes watering." His sky?"

"I am not fully omniscient, but enough to know what I need to know, not fully omnipresent, but I tend to be in good places when it matters. I am close enough to omnipotence to move heavens just to make it right. And while claims to omnibenevolence would be at least far-fetched, I do have my moments" Nephthys smiled and ruffled Helcalia's hair" What kind of god would I be if I didn't make miracles happen for a lonely soul making prayers in the starlight? I didn't deny it to that poor sacrificial girl, nor to sister of Golden Cabal's leader. I will not deny it to you. You, dear Glossary of Science, are touched by stars, and will unite micro and macrocosmos more than any other esper"

She looked at awestruck Mikoto

"And you, Railgun, nurture the virtue of hope too, for one day, you will become its incarnate, beyond the walls of this city and the limits of this nation. And keep on what you are set to do. Because only with love, faith, hope, prudence, temperance, justice, and fortitude, that equanimity can be truly present. That the world he desires can be truly present"

Nephthys rose up, ornaments on her bandages glinting faintly.

"I have some things to do before I will go aid my human" she said, more to herself than to the girls" Take care"

"Nephthys-san?"

"Hmm?"

"Is true hope for what he believes in... really possible"

Nephthys laughed softly at Mikoto's question.

Something materialized in her hand and she tossed it to Mikoto.

It was a tarot card. A Star.

"Hope, dear child, is like a star. I think Kamijou Touma understands this well, and both him and I truly believe it"

"Like a star?" Helcalia tilted her head.

"Stars that you see may not exist anymore. Darkness that surrounds them may be filled with stars that send light through vastness of the cold void, and are not yet seen. And just like that, hope may be found in places that could never appeared to be filled with it. Think about it"

And with that, Nephthys disappeared in a flash of light.

(MEANWHILE)

Camping with Kankyougami Hasako had one undisputable advantage.

You didn't have to travel far to get into the environment you wanted for your outdoor experience. Besides the fact that Hasako needed to routinely replenish her DNA samples and was completely reliant on them, everything was on the table. Everything you wanted, but most importantly, everything you needed from your environments.

So there was no surprise that Touma and the girls found themselves on what looked like beach by all means, even if it was in the middle of the city.

In the secluded space, with everything ready for sleeping, Touma, Kankyougami Hasako, Saten Ruiko, Itsuwa, and Sukemi Rin waited for Arisa, the last person that was yet to arrive.

They didn't really needed the sleeping bags to keep them warm, because Hasako's environments would create perfect conditions in that regard if set on Touma. And as such, they waited on the ground, before finally hearing the approaching footsteps.

"What took you so long?" Rin shouted, noticing Shutaura appearing on the path leading to the makeshift beach.

"We were beginning to get worried" Itsuwa added. "It's not like you to be late"

"Is everything alright?" Saten inquired, inspecting her black haired senpai.

"Wait... are you... Shutaura?" Touma rose up, also focusing his attention on the commando." Shouldn't Arisa be here in your place?"

Shutaura finally spoke after clearing her throat.

"Arisa would be here earlier, but there was certain... unexpected development"

"Oh no! What happened?"

"Don't worry, it's nothing like that... it's probably not like anything you are thinking about right now... so... you remember how I told you that Niang-Niang-san kind of dragged me into helping with baking those mooncakes and how she mentioned that she will be generous and reward me?"

"Yeah, I think I recall that"

"You see... the reward came..." Shutaura smiled brightly" The sun set... I felt queasy... and suddenly..."

She reached beyond light, behind the nearby tree, and pulled someone else onto the path.

Touma and Saten immediately stood up. They both recognized the girl. Of course they did and that recognition caused them to temporarily stop breathing.

The girl next to Shutaura had gentle face, slim figure, and very striking pink hair. She gently waved to the gathered.

"Hello everybody"

"Ari..." Touma tried to find the words" Aris..."

"ARISAAA!" Saten ran over and tackled the idol to the ground" You look like you used to!

"How... how can you be here?" Touma said in disbelief, coming closer" Wait... Niang-Niang did that, didn't she?

"We found the note when we... well, fell apart" Shutaura added, taking a piece of paper and handing to Touma.

Hey, both of you,

As a benevolent deity, I keep my promises and reward mortals who aided me. Thus, to help you with your identity conundrum and help you achieve your little desire, I am splitting you up into two. Keep in mind that you are one being by all means and you will return to your semi-fused state by sunrise. It would end really bad for your... let's say, corporal integrity if you don't become one again, like taking a heart away from the body. But, from time to time, I see no reason to not to split you, should you desire it. Once a month should be possible. Anyways, have fun.

The best goddess ever,

N.N

"As you see" Arisa said, dusting herself off" We were rewarded by opportunity to see you again together, both in our former bodies. We can talk to each other too without our messages"

"Like I want that" Shutaura said with her arms crossed, but was smiling, betraying her true emotions.

"This is so awesome!" Saten cheered next to Touma" Join us, it would be so much fun"

Even though Itsuwa, Rin, and Hasako did not know Arisa in this form, they also went forth to usher their encouragement for the pink haired idol.

"Thank you everyone. You are too kind" Arisa said, beaming brightly.

And so they began talking and playing various games. Even though Arisa never truly left, to see her in her own body once again, even if for just a couple of hours, was a great treat. Arisa herself seemed to be relishing in that, talking with both Touma, Shutaura, and other girls as if there was no tomorrow, and singing her heart out, to a vibrant applause of the gathered.

It really was the kindest and most pleasant crowd one could find themselves in after all.

As time passed and the sleepiness started to settle in, Touma figured out it would be a good time to ask

"Niang-Niang said something about helping you with your desire? Maybe I can help you too?"

Both Arisa and Shutaura froze and then blushed at the same time.

"Y-You certainly can... wow, this is awkward..." Shutaura muttered.

"You see" Arisa mumbled, playing with her fingers" There was something we both realized we wanted to do together, but never could since we fused into one body... and now we have the opportunity."

"It's nothing much to someone who gathered so much attention as you, but it is kind of important for both of us" Shutaura added.

"What are you talking about?"

Arisa looked at Shutaura.

Shutaura looked at Arisa.

They both nodded, before linking their hands together, putting the remaining ones on Touma's shoulders and pressing their lips at exact same time on Touma's cheeks, Arisa from the left and Shutaura from the right.

"Oh... that explains it" Itsuwa said in astonishment.

"Double trouble at its finest" Saten included her bit with a twinge of jealousy.

The kiss lasted for a good while, that is, until the girls didn't feel the need to breathe.

"That was... not to sound shallow or anything... but satisfying as hell" Shutaura tried to catch her breath.

"It was truly magical" Arisa offered her more dreamy comment" And you were right, it was something special when we did together"

"I think you broke him" Rin poked the flabbergasted and red Touma.

"In all honesty, I think that he got enough emotions for one day. It's time to rest" Hasako exclaimed.

"Agreed" Itsuwa said, letting out a rather cute yawn.

No one wanted to argue with mom of the group, since they indeed felt rather tired.

And soon, all of them were laying down. Naturally, Touma was in the center and the girls around him.

But just as he thought before, this configuration made everyone feel safe and comforted. Of course, the shyness and embarrassment were present, but the feeling of comfort and happiness of being able to make this a pleasant experience for Touma overpowered any doubts, at least for the moment.

Saten and Rin was situated the lowest, near Touma's waist legs. Then Shutaura and Arisa by sides on the level of the torso, and finally, Hasako and Itsuwa near Touma's arms and face.

This arrangement didn't come without intense discussion, and straw drawing, but finally everyone settled down.

As the girls huddled around him, Touma exhaled, looking at the sky.

For some time, the situation they were in kept them awake, but soon they began to slowy lose in their tension.

"Itsuwa..." Touma asked in silence

"Yes?..." the girl answered after a moment.

"Can you... hum what you sang to me in the morning? I think everyone will have great dreams if they fall asleep to something so lovely"

Itsuwa smiled with her eyes closed and after a moment began to hum gently, the soothing sound permeating the peaceful beach.

After a moment, Arisa joined her and the two created the most beautiful harmony together. Everyone else felt enchanted and blissfuly at peace, sinking deeper and deeper into relaxation.

Rin was first to fall asleep, curling slightly as she did. Saten mumbled something incoherent and smiled as she too drifted into sleep. After a moment, the melody wavered, both Itsuwa and Arisa beginning to breathe evenly and calmly. Soon Hasako joined them, making soft, charming sighs in her rest from time to time. Shutaura lasted the longest, due to her military drill, but even she eventually succumbed to the slumber.

Touma, almost asleep himself yet still remaining awake even some time after girls were out, still looked at the sky, feeling that it was for those moments that life was worth living.

Not because he was surrounded by gorgeous girls with kind hearts, although it was certainly a nice touch.

It was due to the fact that they could laugh and smile together, and be accepted with open arms by others here. It was something he always wanted.

He shifted just a bit.

Hasako leaned forward in her sleep, and gently pecked him on the neck, something she would never be able to do with a straight face in waking world. He could not see her prism-like irises, but her lips were forming a small smile. Like always, she smelled like fresh air in the forest and seemed to include so many other comforting fragrances.

Similar situation was happening with Itsuwa, who nestled herself between his arm and neck and seemed to enjoy the closeness. She seemingly enjoyed the warmth of his body because his slight shift caused her to immediately follow him and snuggle into him even more.

"I... love..." came a quiet whisper from her.

Saten was also talking through her sleep and from her expression, sleeping in a rather extravagant pose. It seemed that she was beginning to dream about interesting and enjoyable.

Arisa lied calmly and only shifted from time to time, but she managed to sneak her hand into his, and seemed intent to hold on for as long as she could.

Shutaura slept with a perfect posture and without much of a ruckus, although she did gave small snores from time to time.. Not loud to be obnoxious, but enough to make it a distinct, and a rather cute, detail.

Finally, Rin was the most active, shifting and moving, only finding comfort in hugging him... well, part of him anyway.

Touma hoped that it was not due to some nightmares caused by her situation.

Yet he did not have the opportunity to think about this any further, because before he realized it, he drifted into blissful unconsciousness of sleep.

(HOURS LATER)

He was woken up by the sound from above.

When he opened his eyes, he realized that the sun was rather high up. Everyone was mostly in place... with the exception of Arisa.

He felt that his hand felt weirdly empty compared to the gentle squeeze he fell asleep with. He figured that Arisa rejoined with Shutaura when the sun rose. Well, it was what it was. And maybe from time to time, they could see her again.

The noise got louder and louder. Itsuwa groaned and hugged him tighter.

"Five more minutes..." he heard the voice of Saten

As various girls displayed their annoyance with the disturbance, Touma squinted his eyes and finally noticed the source of the noise.

It was the descending airborne machine. Helicopter to be precise.

On instinct, his senses became sharpened.

'Why would a helicopter go here, in the middle of Hasako's Sanctuary? Was there some sort of trouble? Are we in danger? Why? Is it because I had good time last night? Just for that? I need to wake them up'

"Girls..."

"Uhmmm..."

"Girls... you might want to wake up. NOW!"

The helicopter got low enough to start to rise the sand on the beach.

Touma saw it and managed to untangle himself from the group on the ground, before jumping back.

The others were not spared easily, as the wave of elevated sand smacked them like a sharp and rough shower, partially covering them in the desert wave.

Touma managed to find his footing on the sand and faced the machine who finished its descent and the engine was slowly dying down.

Touma assumed the fighting stance. Too many times was he dragged into some crazy mayhem just like that. Well, this time was different. Even if the squad of elite soldiers was going to burst out of this machine and drag him inside to be used in some magical conflict on the other side of the world, he would not let himself be taken without civil explanation. Or a fistfight. Or maybe both, in either order.

The doors on the side opened. Someone slowly appeared in them.

And said...

"DARLING!"

Touma blinked

'What?'

Kongou Mitsuko beamed at him brightly from the top of extending ramp.

"Oh, I missed you" surprised Touma watched as she jumped into the air and hugged him." I can finally see you after all that time"

It was something she wouldn't done so easily before his coma. Another sign of change in attitude.

Now that he was looking at the machine closely, it became clear that the helicopter had a Kongou Airliness symbol on the side. In all the preparation for the conflict that wasn't even happening, he missed that detail.

In the doorway, he noticed the peaking heads of Wannai and Awatsuki. Upon seeing two of them together, Mitsuko's friends also made their way down.

"M-Mitsuko-san? What on earth are you doing here?"

Kongou paused and then backed away slightly.

She cleared her throat, pressing her fingers together in a cute display of coyness.

"W-Well, since we couldn't really find the moment to properly welcome you, I couldn't help but be restless, thinking how to make you feel welcomed"

"You didn't really have to think so much about that-"

"Nonsense, darling. Someone who the great and marvellous Kongou Mitsuko chose to be heart's betrothed cannot possibly settle for anything less than absolute greatness" Kongou made a grandiose gesture of dismissal." Awatsuki-san, do you have the bags?"

"Here they are" Awatsuki handed Kongou the bags.

"Wait... how did you know I was here?" Touma asked in confusion.

"Well, we went to your apartment, but Rikuri-san told us you were out camping. Since we felt that searching for you on foot would be too taxing, we opted for aerial view"

"We are in the middle of the esper-made wilderness" Touma pointed out" I think only satellites could show something in here"

Kongou paused the search through the bags and winked at him.

"I-I was kidding, I thought maybe you used drones or something... you have your own satellite?"

"My father owns it, but I wanted to check the footage for a moment... and sure enough, we found you." Kongou explained with a smile" After that, we realized that we wanted to look fetching and presentable when meeting with you after such a long time, so I called for a lift off from one of my spare helicopters."

"Spare helicopters?" Touma asked incredulously.

"Yes? I have three more at home in my own garage" Kongou looked at him innocently, before shaking her head" But I am digressing. We went to give you this..."

Kongou opened one of the boxes.

Touma's eyes went wide.

It was one of the most exquisite and beautiful bentos he ever seen. The food was so fresh and delicious looking that it seemed to sparkle and glow in the morning light. It was also impressive varied set of vegetables, fish, seafood, meat, and rice, with sour, sweet, and spicy treats of all kinds.

"You made all of this... yourself?"

"Ohohohohoho!" Kongou's signature laugh resounded in the air" It wouldn't be so surprising, now would it? But I cannot possibly take all the credit. Wannai-san and Awatsuki-san were incredible in their execution"

"Kongou-san provided the ingredients of finest quality" Awatsuki explained" And then we helped with composition and arrangement alongside her"

"It was necessary. After all, Kongou-san was so preoccupied with making you the best welcome back memory that she didn't sleep well. Due to this, she made the process of bento making a little more amusing-" Wannai said with a giggle.

"Wa-Wannai-san! D-Don't tell him that!"

"Wow... that's so amazing..." Touma shook his head" So, to recap... you wanted to have a surprise for me, so used a satellite to locate me, and flew the helicopter across the city, landing here... to give me bento?"

"Hmm? Oh yes, pretty much"

Touma laughed, shaking his head.

"You really could have wait until I get out of here to not go through all this trouble"

"I-I suppose..." Kongou fidgeted with a bag in her hands, her cheeks reddening" But I think I couldn't wait to make you happy, darling"

As always, the resident Aero Hand was over the top in the most endearing of ways.

"Then I am really lucky" Touma looked at the bento gratefully.

"Although..." Touma looked behind himself" I should let you know that we are not alone. In fact, you probably angered-"

"RAAAAAGH!"

As if on cue, something exploded from the sand, flying through it and moving past Touma and the girls, before...

The helicopter fell apart in two pieces, slashed like butter.

Luckily, the cut didn't outright damage the engine or came into contact with gasoline, so the machine didn't explode and the slightly panicked pilot got outside.

Rin had sand all over her clothes and seemed absolutely ready to fight. But Touma had no time

And not only she. To his horror, Touma noticed that the sound of cracking is starting to come from the sand beneath his feet. Like... glass! The sand was turning into glass

"Ow! Is it me or is it getting hotter?" Awatsuki stepped from one foot" Ow! The ground is burning!"

It really was. One of the trees nearby burst into flames, and the ground cracked, showcasing the crimson glow underneath.

Before the terribly hot river of molten magma exploded and swallowed the ojou-samas, Touma shouted.

"Hasako, stop! Everything is fine, I am fine! You too, Rin! Stand down!"

"Touma-san! Are you alright? What happened?"

The volcanic environment stopped mid-formation and the temperature lowered to tolerable level.

Touma whirled around and noticed the rest of the girls.

Saten became partially buried, and was shaking of sand from her hair in terrible quantities.

Hasako didn't appear to fully see, as she rubbed her eyes and tried to get good look of the situation. Touma assumed that she acted on instinct, assuming something happened to him, and that he was attacked. Being blinded and buried in sand, Touma guessed that she didn't have a chance to notice that it was Kongou who accidentally caused them to get a sandy bath.

Itsuwa squirmed and wiggled around despite all the effort to stay still due to the sand finding its way under her clothes.

"Alright, what the..." Shutaura paused, and let out a mighty sneeze from sand on her face and nose" What the hell is going on?!"

As Touma explained, the anger of the girls slowly subsided, especially when embarrassed Kongou bowed down and apologized profusely for not taking them into account during the descent of the helicopter. Rin, regaining control of herself, apologized for slashing the helicopter in half, to which Kongou stated it was not a big deal. She could always buy a new one, apparently.

Hasako also apologized for her reaction, at which Kongou insisted that she was the one foolish in her reckless excitement.

After Hasako gave the direction for the exit from Sanctuary to the pilot, and him leaving in a hurry, everyone got to sit together, working to improve the atmosphere.

The mood was ultimately fixed when Wannai used her ability to help wash up the sand from the girls, and Awatsuki offered that they all eat breakfast together, which they did.

Touma felt that this state of affairs could last forever. He wouldn't mind that.

His body was tended to and healed by not only physical means, but the nurturing and kindness of some of the loveliest girls he ever knew, that excelled in positivity, tenderness, and housewife qualities. Additionally, he felt good on his heart knowing just how loyal and loving Kongou Mitsuko kept proving herself to be, alongside her very own friends.

But he knew that he had to keep moving. Beyond the body, there was a mind to be taken care of. As much as he wanted to run from it, it could not be denied.

And it became even more apparent, when in a flash of light, Misaki, Kumokawa, Ayu, Kaibi, and Nephthys appeared nearby.

Beauty Senpai blinked and looked around.

"I seriously think this form of teleportation is so... bizarre"

"Well, I for one thing cannot fathom how you are going on with your lives without the ability to instantly disappear and reappear whenever and wherever you desire" Nephthys calmly shot back.

Hasako noticed them and got up.

"Is it time?" she asked, already knowing the answer.

Seira gave a curt nod.

Beginning Child exhaled softly and looked at the rest of the gathered.

"Girls, please tidy up and leave for now. Touma will take part in something really important, and he needs to have privacy"

Touma noticed Kongou looking at him with worry. From the other side of the picnic blanket, Itsuwa mirrored the look.

"Darling?"

"Touma?"

"Don't worry" Touma pointed back at the mental quarter accompanied by a Magic God" I just have to sort some things out. And they are literally best people to have on your team for something like this. Trust me, everything will be fine"

"Alright. But be careful" Itsuwa said pleadingly, after which she got to cleaning.

After a moment, everything was set.

"Alright, we are going to go back to the city for now" Shutaura said, waving to Touma" We will see each other again soon"

"I will visit tomorrow" Itsuwa promised" We can do something nice together and with the rest of our friends too"

"Might be asking for much when it comes to you, but good luck" Saten cheered out.

"I am leaving the Sanctuary for your use." Hasako addressed the quintet who was about to get to work with Touma" As well as Touma-san. Please, tend to him well"

"I can assure you, we would do our utmost in helping him as much as our abilities allow" Kaibi assured.

"Thank you for allowing us to use this place. It's wonderful" Ayu bowed to Hasako.

"No, no, raise your head. You shouldn't ever bow to me. My debt to you is something that I will be always happy to try to repay" Hasako smiled softly, and turned around, before slowly turning around and motioning to the other's

"Let's go, everyone"

Kongou, Wannai, and Awatsuki looked at Touma

"Darling, if you need anything, be sure to notify us" Kongou spread her fan, and giving him a reassuring smile

"You know where to find us" Wannai added, inclining her head ever so slightly.

"Please take care. Thanks for the lovely time and hope to see you soon" Awatsuki finished the trio's goodbies.

After everyone else left, Touma looked at Misaki

"So... what happens now?"

"Well, we do what we have the excellence ability in" Mental Out put a hand on her handbag, her starry eyes twinkling in the sunlight" We will use our mental abilities and psychological knowledge to aid you into becoming happy and complete"

"We will take a deep dive into your psyche and make sure all that we can find is reconciled or confronted" Kumokawa flipped through notebook filled with drawings and lines of words, while sitting on the tree stump with her legs crossed

"We will help you heal. We will be there for you every step of the way when we uncover something that you would normally have to face on your own" Ayu twirled a phone in her hand like a revolver.

"We will not rest until we aid you with all the pain and loneliness you surely had to face. Even if you needed to brave through it and build walls around your heart in order to save others and not break down... and trust me, I know something about that... we want and can help you." Kaibi's eyes flashed with pinkish glow for second, as she smiled at him.

"To that, may I add, this help extends on things of both mundane and divine" Nephthys crossed her legs in mid air, pointing at herself" Which is why I am of assistance to four of them. That and... due to kinship of our souls, one can say"

"So... we will begin when you decide it's okay" Kumokawa extended her hand forward" What do you say?"

Touma closed his eyes, inhaled, and then exhaled.

As far as he was worried about it, the truth was, he was preparing for that for some time.

"I think I will never be fully ready... and I would lie if I said I have no doubts but... I trust you. So..."

He looked at the face of each and every one of the girls, noticing focus and desire for help, displayed in various ways, but linked through devotion to his cause.

He slowly smiled, clenching his fist.

"... let's do this!"

(TO BE CONTINUED)

And... we are at the bottom. Next time, it will be time for the Mental Squad to shine, in what may be one of the most challenging things for Touma to undertake as of yet.

So, a few notes for this chapter. I will try to keep it concise.

Hasako's Sanctuary is part of the park that she got permission to expand and cultivated it into the wilderness.

I think I always admired Itsuwa's romantic route with Touma because aside from Itsuwa being a true angel of a human being, there is this nice, double-sided, reciprocal bond of admiration between the two of them, with Itsuwa loving Touma more and more over time, and being at awe with his abilities, while at the same time admiring him due to him being a human, and wanting to offer him things of normal life he so desires.

I think one of the most intriguing things that could potentially happen to Mugino is having her confession totally fail, at least at the surface level. Mugino, as we saw many times before, has a problem with obsessive perfectionism. Aside from casting aside her violent nature and learning to embrace the love she has for Touma, she needs to mitigate her chase for perfection, to not repeat her spiral into obsessiveness. It's here where the moment with Ladylee comes into play, because Ladylee knows the scale of life better than anyone and just how pointless trying to prove something through perfection is. By the way, Ladylee's struggles speak to me on a personal level, I find her relatable. No, I am not immortal, but fear of getting attached due to the possibility of losing someone, the choice of cultivation of memory vs. leaving things behind so your soul wouldn't hurt... those are legitimate fears, that often hit quite close to home.

Niang-Niang (and Nephthys, to lesser extent) is meant to often be comically overdramatic, but there are reasons behind them. I think it is good to emphasize the importance of the fact that she tried to make those mooncakes with her own strength. Honestly, I will do my best with Touma x Niang-Niang route as well.

And speaking of routes, I promise you to do justice to Xochitl. And Etzali too, this guy needs to move on somehow for everyone's sake. It will probably be a story in some of the future chapters.

As time goes on, I really think of the complexity of Maidono and Hasako's shared love for Touma. This relationship and friendship was designed so each of them had some part that would ground the other, while also displaying strong insecurities stemming from their backstories (like Hasako's pagophobia or Maidono always wanting to be useful). There is so, so much to explore with those two.

Kongou, Wannai, and Awatsuki... there are no words, they are just adorable in whatever medium they are in. Kamitsuko is one of the greatest gifts to the world, but with time, I grew fond of Kaminuho and Kamimaaya (?) too. Those ships will clearly still be represented.

Also, there is a mystery of Index to address. What conclusion will await us with it?

In this moment, I have to voice my lament. I don't regret setting the fic in GT, thanks to this I can use so many wonderful characters, but even though I love Accelerator immensely, I have almost zero ways of utilizing him. It's not like he has little scenes because I hate him, there is only so much he can do in his situation. Why, why did he become imprisoned (I mean, I know why, but still, doesn't do his fics any favours whatsoever!)

Did you like seeing Arisa for a moment? It was brief, couldn't be long, but hey, maybe she will return in the future ;) Honestly, Shutaura and Arisa's situation and having Mitsumi in between is one of my favourite concepts here, not only because I am interested in DID (disssoactive identity disorder) and I am a fan of Jekyll and Hyde (which could be seen in Touma and KNT) but also because both Arisa and Shutaura deserve so much more in terms of representation.

I realized that out of everyone, Musujime would probably loathe Saronia with passion, given how Saronia used children in Hawaii

Junko plotline is starting to take shape. There is a concrete reason for her strange reaction to carrying Touma and crying out of the blue, as well as the fact that her route with Touma is so odd compared to the others. But while it will be addressed, for now, I hope you actually don't realize the actual reasons.

I hope that you don't mind me building Helcalia's character. I just have a soft spot for her and I actually enjoyed her and Melzabeth's appearance. I thought that with proper build up, this can make her a truly charming and enjoyable character.

I know I don't write nearly enough of Touma with guys but it may change in the future. Did you enjoy the onsen mayhem? I sure did, amd it gives me a lot of whacky ideas.

There was slightly more focus on Rikuri and Amazora in this chapter, but Kaibi will have more scenes next chapter, so rest assured.

Are you excited for Touma's session with mental quartet and Nephthys? I certainly am. Be sure to get ready on very emotional rollercoaster though, it may be intense for multiple reasons.

While the plot of Misaki and Bologna may be convoluted, I wish to continue on with remastered version, and build on the mother daughter bond gradually. It was a bit unfortunate that I made my take on it just before it was revealed that Bologna is a human, not a demon from the start, but well, it happens. To me, this theory is just too entertaining to not be given any fanfic representation and I wish to have those two together, even if it will not sit well with everyone. Just treat it as a curiosity of the author's imagination. Additionally, I strongly believe that Bologna is in the club of 'being older than she looks' kind of mom, like Misuzu, Shiina, or Melzabeth.

Alright, that should be it for now. I want to get to work on the next chapter as fast as I can, though as always in recent times, I kindly ask for patience, too. And as always, I thank you for being wonderful group of readers. I know I am not perfect, and I will never truly be, but I am always willing to do my best.

Until next time, see you in Recovery: Mind! Take care!