NOVEL NEXT Chapter 29: chapter 29
It was raining.
The water was falling down onto the elegant flower gardens of Tokiwadai Middle School, when Shirai Kuroko once again discussed the plan of the search of Tokiwadai for memories and clues regarding Mitsuari Ayu with her unlikely companion, Kongou Mitsuko.
The animosity Kuroko bore towards the aviation heiress was nowhere nearly as prominent as in times past, but the teleporter would certainly not take Kongou with her out of her own free will. However, Kongou was rather stubborn and persistent since the matter concerned Kamijou.
Kuroko could not fathom what ape was doing with her friends. Over time, she certainly did find some qualities in the boy that she valued and she no longer bore such a grudge for Kamijou alone. His relations with her onee-sama were another story though, as Kuroko felt like throwing her spikes from just the thought alone.
But here they were. And by here, Kuroko meant Kongou's dorm. It was larger and more dignified in the look than the dorm she shared with Misaka Mikoto, although Kuroko could not tell if that was the result of Kongou paying for living quarter enhancement or if it was the feature of Inner Dorm as a whole.
Speaking of that, it was worth mentioning that Tokiwadai possessed two main housing facilities, Inner and Outer Dorm. Their names came from the simple fact that one of them was inside the girl-only area known as School Garden, and the second was outside of it, although still in close proximity. Shirai Kuroko and Misaka Mikoto lived in Outer Dorm, but noticeable group of students, including Kongou and her friends, Wannai and Awatsuki, were housed in the Inner Dorm.
While technically there was no difference in those facilities, the girls from one dorm often created superstitions about the girls from the other, and vice versa. Most notably, girls from Outer Dorm thought that the girls living inside of the School Garden were sheltered and clueless (according to Kuroko's experience, that was not the rule, but it turned out to be true quite a few times). Meanwhile, the girls from Inner dorm laughed at the supposed ignorance and brashness of their outer classmates.
Well, dropping that aside, there they were. Kuroko sighed, looking at raven haired girl in front of her
"Do you understand now, Kongou Mitsuko? It is not something I want to do for that ape, contrary to you, but his involvement and the factors he mentioned make this the case I should not ignore, Judgement member or not. Thus, I would like you not to slow me down"
Kongou spread her fan and 'hmphed' under her breath
"But of course. It's the great Kongou Mitsuko you are talking to. With me, your chances of success are crucially heightened."
Kuroko deadpanned at that, but before she could comment on Kongou's confident response, there was a knocking on the door.
Kuroko looked at Kongou, who called out.
"Hello?"
"It's me, Hokaze Junko. I have a topic of great urgency that I need to discuss with you"
After a nod from Kongou, Kuroko teleported across the room and reached to the doorknob, revealing the violet haired girls, bearing a gentle smile and pushing a small tray with a tea set.
"I am sorry for the intrusion..."
"No, not at all senpai, please come in"
Junko stepped inside, gently sitting herself on a chair. She took the teapot with water boiled in advance, and poured the liquid into the cups.
"Do you fancy some tea?"
Kongou accepted the drink, but Kuroko crossed her arms, looking at the 3-rd year student.
"It's good to see you, Hokaze-senpai, but do you mind if I ask why are you here? Me and Kongou-san have a rather urgent case on our agenda?"
Junko's face immediately became more serious.
"Yes, I guess there is no point in evading the subject. Shirai-san, Kongou-san, earlier on, I heard you talk about the search for girl named Mitsuari Ayu. I would like to be a part of it."
The eyes of both Kongou and Kuroko widened, as Junko bowed her head.
"I am sorry for overhearing your conversation, it was wrong, but now that I know about it, I simply cannot back down. From what I heard, your reason, Shirai-san, is mainly based around the mystery of Mitsuari Ayu's history and whereabouts. For you Kongou-san, is your bond with Kamijou-san. For me, I suppose it's both of those reasons...
"Why is that?" asked Kongou.
And so, Hokaze Junko told Kuroko and Kongou how she knew Ayu in the past, omitting a little bit more intimate details from past in the IDEAL but elaborating in great detail upon Ayu's grudge towards Shokuhou Misaki and the girls tragedy that caused her to separate from people she once called friends.
"I knew Mitsuari Ayu and considered her a good friend. Now that she changed so much... I wouldn't be able to sleep at night if I let her go like that. Especially if Kamijou-san is trying his very best to help my old friend out."
"That's remarkably tragic. I never known that Mitsuari-san, but I also can't sit idly by when there is such suffering going on" Kongou nodded, before looking at Kuroko "Don't you agree, Shirai-san?"
Kuroko, who was deep in thought for a long while, sighed and spread her arms
"Fine. Who am I to deny this to you? I know that if someone investigated something regarding the safety and wellbeing of onee-sama, Saten-san, or Uiharu-san, I also wouldn't be able to sit idly by. Although I have to ask... does your involvement mean Shokuhou Misaki is already aware of our plans?"
Hokaze looked at the floor, somewhat awkwardly.
"No... I didn't tell the Queen yet, and I am not sure if I should, for the reasons I rather not disclose right now, if that's fine with you, Shirai-san"
"Certainly, I am the last person to pry into the cliques' private affairs"
For a moment, there was no sound other than rain and gentle sips of tea.
"What about darling?"
Junko blinked innocently a few times, before turning questioningly to Kuroko
"For some reason, that's her name for the ape"
Adorable expression of utter confusion adorned Junko's face
"Eto..."
The other two girls pointed at each other and said at the same time
"She means Kamijou"
"Oh!" Junko clapped her hands before, looking at Kongou" What about Kamijou-san? I don't understand."
"Well... I think we ALL have reasons connected with him. Even you, Shirai-san"
"Be quiet..." Kuroko grumbled, looking away.
"So what do you say if we all share some stories that led for us to form such convictions?" sparks of joy lit up in Kongou's eyes as she stretched her hand with a fan "It's the girl story time!"
As expected, the eyes of quintessentially pure maiden Hokaze Junko also lit up, as she put a hand on her cheek with a smile
"Ara mah, a girl talk with friends, about Kamijou-senpai of all things. What a splendid idea! It would surely be an interesting memory ride. Don't you agree, Shirai-san?!"
"Don't you, don't you?!"
With two pairs of hopeful eyes looking at her, Shirai Kuroko could only admit defeat and waved her hand.
"Alright, ape talk. Woohoo... just... I would rather have some tea, after consideration. This will take a while..."
"If you won't mind, I will go first" Kongou proudly puffed her chest" As for introduction, Kamijou-san is someone who saved me from getting caught on in a fight when I was lost. Ever since then, I knew that he noticed my charm, and that he was someone valiant and brave, someone who I can gladly get to know. Even though our social status makes things challenging and we still need to learn a lot about each other, he proved time and time again in a short time in which we know each other, that he is much more caring, valiant, and even romantic, than his commoner nature would seem to suggest. If you seek for a logical explanation, you probably won't be satisfied. My heart was simply stolen and now the very thought of him makes me excited and joyous. This can only be the sing that Kongou Mitsuko, does indeed, choose the very best"
Hokaze Junko clapped politely and Kuroko motioned with her hand
"And... what will your story be about?"
"Patience, Shirai-san." a dreamlike smile came onto Kongou's lips, as she sat more of comfortably, with eyes viewing scenes from her memory" This story actually concerns not only me, but my best and most faithful companions, Wannai-san and Awatsuki-san..."
[KONGOU'S STORY]
"Darling, you are here!" Kongou greeted Touma, when he arrived at the front of the restaurant.
"Hi there... Kongou-san..." said the boy, panting from all the running he made to make it in time.
"I already told you can call me Mitsuko, and..." Kongou scrunched her face while observing the boy" What is that smell?"
"Well, it's just my luck that garbage truck malfunctioned and spilled its contents right when I was passing by..."
Kongou sighed and put the hands on her hips.
"What am I to do with you darling... or rather... what you would do without me!"
"No... don't tell me you predicted something like this?!"
"Ohohohoho! But of course. Well... maybe not for this specifically, but you have a luck of being in good graces with a model possessing some funds to spend. When it comes to clothes, there is no emergency I can't cover. Having a spare is an ABC of any good lady... especially if someone is your fiancée-to-be. We will have good clothes in no time... come with me!"
"Why do I get the feeling that you really wanted to dress me up even without any accident?"
"I didn't... maybe a little~" Kongou giggled and Touma rolled his eyes.
"Why didn't I see that coming?"
After the change of clothes was taken care of, Kongou and Kamijou arrived hand to hand in front of the restaurant. The boy was in a tuxeado and didn't look all that happy about it.
"Wearing such a formal clothes is rather unnerving. Do I really have to?"
"Hush, darling. Trust woman's intuition. Besides, I really want you to look your best for this meeting"
And with that, they entered the restaurant. The place itself was dignified and had the classy look, that made Touma's uneasiness all the more prominent.
'Calm down, deep breaths, deep breaths...you can't be scared of every fancy place...'
The company of Touma and Kongou already sat by the reserved table. It had the form of two pretty middle school girls, who politely bowed ever so slightly upon their arrival.
Acting more of an instinct and knowledge from rom-coms, Kamijou pushed Kongou's chair away so she could sit down. After he was sitting too, Kongou began to speak.
"Everyone-"
"Kongou... no, Mitsuko-san, you called me here on such a short notice that you must be mad about something. So say it already! If this is about that time at the fashion show when I accidentally saw you naked, I already apologiz-"
Kongou quickly put her hand on Touma's mouth, before coughing and reddening a little
"As a matter of fact, it is NOT about that situation. Everyone, the reason for this meeting is simple. Kamijou-san, although I believe you already recognize my best friends, you were never formally introduced. This is Wannai Kinuho. She is level 3 Hydro Hand user and one of the kindest people I know"
The girl with eyes that looked like dark green seawater and short brown hair, that in Kamijou's opinion looked incredibly fluffy, smiled sweetly at him.
"Hello again, Kamijou-san. Do you remember me?"
It took only a moment for Kamijou to answer.
"You are the girl I fished out from the river. And earlier, we spoke during the heat wave."
"You do remember..." the water user didn't even hide how pleased she was with that confirmation.
"It's good to see you again... you look well"
Wannai blushed a little, before answering shyly
"Calling it a conversation would be a stretch. But thank you... it's good to see you as well"
Kongou moved to the other girl, who had long, black-to-blue dark hair, violet-tinged irises, and attractive face that blended the characteristics of calmness and maturity.
"And this Awatsuki Maaya, level 3 Float Dial user. She might look serious from time to time, but she is one of the most reliable and hardworking friends I have."
The girl once again bowed at him but the stare she was giving remained rather neutral. It was not openly hostile, but cautious would probably be the best word for it.
"Kamijou Touma... I heard a lot about you from Kongou-san. I really wish to see your qualities in action and judge you with my own eyes"
"Thanks... I guess?"
"She was actually really interested in meeting you. It's just that Awatsuki-san is rather protective." Wannai smiled at Touma, as her best friend frantically waved her arms.
"W-Wannai-san! It's just that a lot of guys are scumbags pretending to be all good and clean. I have to make sure Kongou-san doesn't associate herself with someone like that. There were lots of... pardon me for saying that, Kamijou-san... absurd stories regarding you, and it's just simply... hard to believe it, like that. They seemed like exaggerations"
"While your concern is appreciated, I can assure you Kamijou-san is more than meets the eye" Kongou give Awatsuki a reassuring look" Now, each of you is someone important to me, for one reason or another. I would really appreciate it if you could get along with each other, just like I get along with each of you individually."
Touma looked at two girls. His eyes were met with happy look from Wannai and a little bit more unsure from Awatsuki, although there was something akin of hesitant hope in purple eyes of long haired girl.
"Well, I have nothing against it. I am Kamijou Touma. I am a level 0 and just a normal high school student, unlike noble ladies like you, but I hope we can be friends"
The dishes arrived. Apparently, the girls couldn't decide what to take, so they ordered array of dishes for everyone to share from them.
'Well, that's ojou-sama life for you. I can't even imagine the bill though...'
(LATER...)
The food was delicious, and although the atmosphere was initially a bit awkward, Touma's ingenuity and humour, as well as politeness and general curiosity of the girls, quickly made the meal into a very enjoyable one.
However...
THUD!
"A-A-Awatsuki-san! What did you do?!"
"I don't know why Kamijou-san collapsed! I simply said that we could split the bill and showed it to him and-"
"Oh" Kongou nodded in understanding" That actually explains it. You see... for level 0s, one fourth of the price for our lunch course is, believe it or not... a big expense"
"Truly?"
"How peculiar..."
Those innocent words of rich ladies had not a gram of mockery, yet could made the financial self confidence of any less well-situated member of Academy City's society shatter to tiny pieces.
"Not only that, but, according to Misaka-san, due to the various circumstances, Kamijou is the level 0 with the lowest income. So seeing the price normal for us sent him into state of shock"
"Yes" Wannai lowered herself to look at Kamijou's face" I can almost see his soul leaving the body... wait, in fact..."
She straightened herself, looking at Kongou and Awatsuki.
"I think... he is not breathing..."
There was a moment of silence, when the trio stared at the boy, their faces overcast with shadows.
"Kongou-san... isn't this the time for this?" Wannai asked in a serious tone.
"Oh, it most definitely is the time for that" came the reply.
"What are you talking about?" Awatsuki inquired, to which her friends turned their heads towards her.
"The fabled lips-to-lips procedure, to help him start to breathe again."
Awatsuki's mind came to a sudden halt.
"Huh?"
"Now, now, Wannai-san, what are you doing?" Kongou asked in a sickeningly sweet tone, as the hydrokinetic level 3 leaned over Kamijou and brushed the hair out of the way, just as Kongou did the same.
"Why, I am about to perform lips-to-lips to save Kamijou-san"
"Well, if it was water stuck in his lungs, I would leave it to you, but by definition, air is my domain. So you can kindly move aside-"
"No, no, no, I insist. I actually have experience in doing this, as I performed it on girls who had accidents on the pool. That's why if anyone should ki... resuscitate Kamijou-san, it should be me"
"Look at my mouth and then at his. It's like my lips were born for this"
"W-What's says mine weren't?"
"I WILL DO IT!" In their argument, Wannai and Kongou didn't notice that Awatsuki leaned down and closed in on Touma's lips" His life may be in danger, so cut it out!"
"..."
"Stop looking as if you are about to cry. I am simply thinking about rescuing him, so stop making me feel guilty for no reason at all. Well, here I go~"
But just when Awatsuki closed her eyes and was about to touch Touma's lips, the boy gasped suddenly, causing the now flustered girl to frantically jump backwards, as he rose up, grabbing his head.
"Kamijou-san?!
"I had... a terrible nightmare... that I had to pay a price so ridiculously... AAH! That blasted bill is still here! It wasn't a dream!
"Don't worry Kamijou-san, let's make this one fifth..."
"Sigh... I knew this day would come..."
"What are you... Don't take the piece of paper titled 'for dire sale' and start to write the names of your organs! We will split it in a way so you can pay, so don't do something so dark!"
(LATER...)
"There he goes. Despite certain attraction, this lunch was rather fabulous" Kongou said after the girls and Touma parted ways" Darling clearly is one of the kind"
"Nothing truer was said today." Awatsuki sighed, massaging the sides of head" Good grief, I got a headache just from one encounter..."
"I think he is a bit strange, but also very charming" commented Wannai.
Kongou nodded, smiling behind her fan
"I guess knowing Kamijou is like wine. It's an acquired taste."
Awatsuki smiled too
"Well, we just have to wait and see what he surprises us with"
{Wannai Kinuho wants to advance}
"Hello, Kamijou-san!"
Touma, carrying bags with groceries, heard a familiar voice, and when he turned around, he noticed Wannai Kinuho catching up to him
"Oh, Wet... Wannai-san! How are you?"
The fluffy-haired girl pouted at him
"You were about to say it. Don't call me Wet Girl!"
"Sorry, almost slipped out. Well... it was good to see you"
He began to walk away. As he went on, Wannai's cheeks tinged with pink hue, as she inhaled deeply through her nose, closed her eyes, exhaled and nodded to herself.
"Kamijou-san. Please wait!"
Touma slowed down, as the girl went to his side once again.
"In truth... I would like to speak to you, in private."
Touma was a little bit confused, but nevertheless nodded
"Okay then, I will just drop the bags at home and meet you at the park in 10 minutes"
After said time passed, Wannai and Touma found themselves sitting in front of the park's pond.
After steeling her nerves, the girl grasped Touma's hand.
"Kamijou-san, firstly, I would like to apologize for my behaviour during the heat wave. You may not think much of that, but I need to say this. Back then, I couldn't hold a conversation with you and ran away. You could feel that you did something wrong, while in fact, it was all on me. I would like to apologize for that, and hope we can make up for it in the future"
Touma waved his hand
"You don't have to apologize for anything like that. It was a hard time for everybody, and I was more worried that you were sick or something. Basically, what's important is that we talk right here, right now"
Wannai's heart sped up a little. Unintentionally on her part, water near the shore agitated itself in response to girl's intense feelings.
"Even in situation when you could easily take offense, you were still more concerned about my well-being? That's... that's just..."
She then shook her head before she could completely lose control.
"I-I am glad that you think like you do. I also want to say that when I witnessed your attempts in battling the Elements, I thought you looked very cool. I was honestly impressed that someone so weak when it comes to esper power can fight so well and be so brave in heart. So that's why... I have a request"
She then bowed her head, with her right hand still clasped on Kamijou's left.
"Please, help me grow stronger."
Touma was certainly not expecting something like this.
"Huh? What... what do you mean?"
"Kamijou-san, I am a level 3 at Tokiwadai. While this suffices in many areas, confronting certain dangers made me realize that it is not enough. I wish to protect Kongou-san and everyone I care about. So I would like to grow in strength of my ability."
Kamijou was silent for a while, before responding.
"You know, Misaka once showed me the footage of your battle with that guy... Baba, was it? I am no expert, but if anyone here is cool, it's certainly you. You were creative and resourceful, just like a level 0, but utilized your power like a high-level esper. Perfect combination"
Wannai's heart swelled with pride, but she managed to got it under control.
"You watched it?! Thank you, I am very glad I was able to defend Kongou-san and that cat, but this struggle made me realize that I want to... no, I choose to... improve myself in order to stand by Kongou-san's side. If I was stronger, this conflict could be resolved faster"
"As a matter of fact... I am really sorry. You know, for not being there to help you"
Wannai shook her head and smiled
"No, that's alright. You were busy with other matters. Besides, by accounts of my various friends, I know that you would stand to protect Kongou-san without hesitation. Also, I heard that you went to aid Misaka-san when she had that strange diarrhoea problem Shokuhou-san told us about..."
"D-Diarrhoea? Shokuhou?"
"The point is, that when I fought back then, I realized that there could be resourceful enemies out there. Not to mention that when we ventured out to take the tower during the heat wave, we were completely humiliated when confronted with such a raw force. And in front of you, who tried his best even without a proper team or abilities."
"But when it came to fighting the Elements, Tokiwadai was far more organized and successful-"
"Only because we had Misaka-san's machine and good teamwork in everyday routines. But that mission and Tokiwadai being looted... it felt so frustrating. Kamijou-san, I heard that you don't really feel the desire to pursue higher esper power."
"It's not like I won't, I simply can't. My ability doesn't allow that"
"But... I thought you didn't have one..."
"It's a little bit complicated... it's better to see it in action."
Wannai nodded and resumed
"I have my pride as a lady from Tokiwadai, but I have enough humility to admit that me and my friends have no great experience in fighting resourceful foes that use raw, primal force. We are usually able to push through with our esper abilities, but I painfully realized that it is not always the case. Kamijou-san... I would like you to teach me your ways of fighting. There is a system scan coming on. If this is no trouble, please show me a way in which I could increase my power. I would love to join Kongou-san at level 4"
Touma got up and stretched, before offering Wannai his hand.
"Well, I don't really understand the need for all that levelling up. But if this is important for you, of course I will help you. Not to mention you are clearly doing it to protect your friends. And that is truly admirable."
"Thank you" Wannai beamed at him, mirroring the same sweet smile she gave him upon her introduction. "I wish to train for a week in constant routine. Can you recommend me someone who can help me increase the level of my ability?"
Touma looked to the skyline, pondering about that
"I don't really know anyone with a water type of power... but maybe I know someone who can help you bring out your best while working with the natural opposition..."
"I don't fully understand yet, but if it's your friend, they are surely as kind and considerate as you!"
"Ekhm... well..."
(LATER...)
Stiyl Magnus lit up yet another cigarette while looking at Touma through narrowed eyes.
"I refuse"
"Stiyl, when you think about it, this is perfect. She-"
"Let me tell you something, Kamijou Touma." Stiyl said in a lowered voice" I am an inquisitor and church assassin, I am a rune expert and a priest. I am quite a few things, but I am certainly not a babysitter of spoiled brats. The only reason why am I still in the city is that Index will be back soon and I want to check that she is given proper housing and care. Other than that, I am not obliged anything"
"So you want to just sit here and smoke?"
"That's much better than talking to you, so unless you have some way to actually convince me..."
Touma sighed and raised his hands up in the air.
"Fine. When we will be on a mission next time, I will owe you a favour"
Stiyl's eyes lit up.
"While your determination to help someone you barely met is hilarious, try better than that"
"I can give a word or two to Index to convince her to spend some time with you"
Stiyl stopped and then slowly put the cigarette down
"She still doesn't trust you, right? Well, I can try to convince her to give you a chance, if you help me"
Stiyl clicked his tongue and took a second cigarette, lighting it up with a snap of his fingers.
"This will cost you, Kamijou Touma, I can assure you. However... well, at least I will have some entertainment..."
He then rose up and walked to Wannai, before bending down a little, so he could be face to face with a girl, who looked a bit intimidated by his black robe and sheer height.
"Kamijou-san... there was no need to get adults involved in this..."
"Stiyl is actually the same age as you"
This stunned the girl even more, until the redheaded priest spoke, rather rudely blowing smoke into Wannai's face.
"So, who we have here?"
"I am Wannai... kah... Kinuho" the girl spoke, tried her best to appear dignified and not break into a coughing fit" I am level 3 Hydro Hand of Tokiwadai. Kamijou said you are extremely proficient in pyrokinesis. We thought that through the pressure of environment caused by your element, I could hone my own to greater heighs"
"Hmm, for once, Kamijou got something right. Show me what you got"
"Yes!"
After a moment, Wannai motioned towards the nearby canal and a big sphere of water rose up, before splitting into few streams and encircling her.
"My ability allows me to control maximum of 400 liters of water in the radius of 18 meters. I can separate it into maximum of 4 separate clumps or streams. I can still control water being out of my sight, but I can't do it if it's too scattered or I have no body of water to utilize"
Styil was simple observing for some time, before motioning for them to go with him.
When they arrived under bridge on the river, Stiyl scattered his runic cards in one swift motion. On Wannai's questioning gaze, Touma whispered:
"Those help him to control his power"
"Oh, so it's like Shokuhou-san's remotes or Yumiya-san's flashlight? Quite peculiar choice, but I understand."
"What we shall do is simple. My... pyrokinesis..." Stiyl sounded truly amused as he said the term" Can generate heat so great that it will vaporize all the moisture. It is a very unfavourable for someone like you. But you still have some options. You can break your limits and summon greater amounts of water or from a greater distance. You can master your hold to degree of controling single droplets of water. You can control your own fluids to make a weapon of it, or maybe even use fluids in another being"
"But... that's impossible! Something like this would surely be level 4, no maybe even a level 5..."
"Do you want to get stronger or not? I can leave at any time I want"
"You know a lot about water for someone using fire" Touma remarked.
"When you master fire, you need to learn a thing or two about element that can extinguish it. Besides, one of my disciples, Marie, utilizes water just Wanny..."
"It's Wannai..."
"Whatever, just like her. Although her methods are different, Marie's training would be good for this situation too. Kamijou Touma, step outside of the range of my cards."
When Touma did so, the entire area exploded in scorching heat. On Stiyl's command, fire condensed into two humanoid creatures. They were not nearly as powerful as Innocentius, but the flames were still tangibly hot.
"Find the way to summon water and try to extinguish them. Do so while avoiding being burned."
"H-Huh?"
"What, are you scared?! For goodness sake, I can heal burns, so don't you dare whine. My training will be intense. And I warn you, I have no patience for complains or whining of spoiled rich brat. The only thing we can welcome here are blood, sweat, tears, and your determination. Do you have it? Because we will do this in the oldest and most effective way. Either overcome the limits of your power and the obstacles intruding in your way to survive... or die trying"
"Stiyl... that may be a bit much..."
"You shut up! So what will it be, girl?"
Wannai rose her eyes. Which, although slightly scared, were quickly turning into determined ones.
"If this is the way through which I can protect my friends... then so be it. Stiyl-sensei, I am all yours"
"Then try not to perish"
Wannai rose her hand and the stream of water emerged from the river. Yet it quickly began to boil and evaporate, and ultimately, the girl was left defenceless, when fire humanoid attacked, causing Wannai to jump back.
"Again!"
What followed, was the series of attempts in which Wannai tried various means and experimented with water to get a clear hit on the fire. Although for over an hour nothing happened, in the 12th attempt Wannai finally managed to shot a stream with volume big enough to consume half of the fiery humanoid.
Stiyl nodded and extinguished the field.
"If you think I will tell you that you did a good job, you are mistaken. You are still rather sloppy. However, you can come again tomorrow evening."
And with that, he left.
Wannai exhaled and then began to collapse, but Touma caught her just in time.
"Thank you, Kamijou-san"
"Was this overdone? Stiyl is not exactly the gentlest type..."
"His methods are strange, but I can feel that I grew from that training, even if only a little bit. It's good that I changed into a swimsuit too"
"For that matter... I really tried not to look..."
"I appreciate that, but I don't really mind... although I am all sweaty and..." Wannai sniffed herself before cringing a little" I smell as if I've been smoked. I hope you don't find me repulsive"
"Not at all. For that matter, why did you have a swimsuit?"
"I've been returning from my practice session, when I saw you... oh, before I forget, there is one more thing I need to ask of you"
(NEXT DAY)
Early in the morning, Wannai Kinuho battled Kamijou Touma. It was not unlike his clashes with Misaka Mikoto in times past, only this time, it was on the agreement of both parties.
In contrast to the training with Stiyl, those battles were supposed to hone the girl's instincts to a more of streetfight style of combat. Wannai found it rather challenging.
"I never saw anyone evade my streams like you do"
"That's something everyone can master, if they train long enough."
Kamijou used all the tricks in the book, while Wannai also did her best to be creative, curving and splitting the streams in attempt to reach Touma.
"When my stream crashed into your right hand, I lost control over the entire clump."
"This is my ability. Think of it as additional difficulty"
And so they trained, with Kamijou at dawn and Stiyl at dusk. It was bitter work, and often resultet in total exhaustion. But after only 7 days of consequent training, Wannai withstood heat more easily. Her limit rose up to almost twice as much as before, 750 l. The number of streams she could control rose up to 6 and effective reach to 35 meters. But her greatest achievement was the ability to use small droplets of water in the slicing, bullet-like fashion. That included her own sweat, something she considered impossible before.
And most importantly, Kamijou Touma helped her out in more ways than one. Each day before school, he drank with her while they rested and simply spent quality time with her.
Finally, the system scan arrived. Although Touma passed his very quickly, with no progress whatsoever, for the first time in a long while he was genuinely interested in the scores of someone else.
And finally...
"Kamijou-san!" Touma, waiting in the usual spot, noticed the smiling Wannai running towards him.
Unexpectedly, the girl leaped into the air and hugged him tightly.
"W-Wannai-san?!"
"I did it! My rank rose up significantly and I am at the threshold of becoming a level 4. Just a little bit more work and I will be there. I was low in level 3 rankings, but now, I am most promising level 4 candidate in Tokiwadai. They told me that I will be there in my next scan. Oh, Kamijou-san, thank you, thank you, thank you!"
"You... you are welcome... you should probably thank Stiyl more than me... also..."
"Hmm?" the euphoric girl stopped rubbing her cheek next to his as she slowly came back into reality.
"Your breasts... are pressing against me... rather hard..."
Wannai blinked and then squealed, frantically trying to get away.
"I-I am so sorry, I..."
But then, she slipped. Quite ironic for hydrokinetist.
And as she flew forwards, her lips landed on Touma's brow
Chu!~
With kiss ending, Wannai's face exploded in crimson hue as she slowly dropped to Touma's lap.
"W-Wannai-san?! Mosh moshi-Aghuagh?!"
Suddenly Touma, was hit straight on the cheek which caused him to bounce back a few meters. He looked up towards the attacker.
"Awatsuki-san... what was that for?"
The buoyancy controller leaned down over him with a thin smile.
"Oh, let me think. What would you do if you followed your friend and found her with a face on a guy's crotch?"
And with that, she showed him a photo on her phone. Touma paled immidietaly.
"This... this only looks bad... I swear..."
"I know. Which is why I won't do anything with this photo, as long as you fulfil my request."
{Awatsuki Maaya wants to reconcile}
What Awatsuki wanted from Touma was fairly simple, yet also quite taxing at the same time.
The girl spent one part of the day following him around while he did his regular day, and the other on dragging him around through the various places to help her in her own errands. For someone that Touma found a bit more distant than Kongou or Wannai, she surely dedicated a whole lot of time to be around him.
Although he would usually snap at the girl when he was forced to go through yet another clothing store, something in Awatsuki's behaviour stopped him from really getting mad.
It was as if the girl was playing a part in some invisible play. She acted impatiently and arrogantly but at the same time, looked at him when she thought he was not paying attention. As if she was expecting something. Not being able to take it anymore, Touma finally stopped, while carrying the mountain of boxes as they passed near the artificial pool for fierfighters on the between-district intersection.
"Awatsuki-san... I really don't want to sound rude, but I have to say it. What is your problem with me?"
The violet-eyed girl looked at him, yet again trying to look angry
"What do you imply? I-"
"You chose to spend the day with me, you are obviously interested in this time for some reason, but you keep acting strangely. You are pretending to be someone you are not and you really weren't going to do anything with this photo. I may be mistaken, since I basically don't know you, but if you want to say something to me, just say it."
Awatsuki clenched her fists, before exhaling and smiling tiredly.
"I can't do it..."
She jumped into the air and landed on the surface of the pool. The water gave in slightly, but withstood the girl's mass, as if she was nothing more than a leaf.
She crouched down, and the look she was now giving Touma was that of an apology.
"Kamijou Touma, when I first started hearing from Kongou-san and Wannai-san about you, I got mad at you. It wasn't your fault, but I was very angry. Suddenly, my two best friends had some adventures without me and became interested in a guy. I felt... completely left out. I feared being alone and them leaving me behind. That's why I hated you."
Touma listened without interrupting as Awatsuki put her feelings into words.
"When Kongou-san convinced me to properly meet you, I was bent on disliking you. But after some time, there was no quality in you that would justify such hate. Maybe annoyance, but not straight up malice. Yet my pride and bitterness didn't allow me to properly speak with you until now. I was still mad at you for stealing Kongou-san and Wannai-san's attention, so I tried to create opportunities to show that you have ulterior motives. But there weren't any and instead I found myself liking you more and more. I tried to convince myself that I was angry, but the longer I did, the more awful I felt. So, I took it on you and forced you through this day. I am... truly sorry. Back then, I wasn't honestly trying to become your friend. And I doubt that you want to be friends with me after a deception like that..."
Touma looked at her with serious face
"You are right, I don't want to..."
"I see. Then I will just take my leave..."
"Because I am not interested in that fake one I spent the day with. But if real Awatsuki Maaya wants to do something with me, I can consider it"
The girl turned around, looking both surprised and hopeful.
"You would do something like that? But I have to repay you for what I've been doing!"
"Like I say, the biggest reward for me, would be if you dropped the mask and showed me your true self. Is there something that you genuinely want to do?"
Awatsuki tilted her head, before nodding with a small smile.
"Actually, there is something like that..."
(LATER)
After they exited the arcade, Awatsuki Maaya found herself laughing. She and Touma were going back in the direction of School Garden, and the girl could not contain her merriment.
"I always wanted to see how commoners spend time in arcades, but I couldn't muster the courage to ask any of my friends to come here. Well, most of them wouldn't like it anyway. It's truly a paradise lost! Not to mention those carbonated drinks, first time I tasted one... ugh... buuuurp! Oh... I-I am terribly sorry..."
Touma practically folded himself with laughter, and Awatsuki, although embarrassed, found herself joining soon enough.
When they calmed themselves, Touma pointed at yet another artificial firefighting pool.
"Can you explain to me how your power works? I've been wondering for quite a while"
"Sure" the girl said, leaping into the air and onto the surface of water" my ability allows me to manipulate the buoyancy of things I am in contact with. I can walk on water without breaking surface tension, although I have to move from place to place. And I can also influence buoyancy through the air, making me capable of lifting heavy objects. So, what do you think. Water-walking is quite marvellous, isn't it?"
"Hmm... you are like... those Amazonian lizards that can ran on water in a funny way..."
Awatsuki didn't think she could laugh any harder than she already did, but she was proven wrong.
"Where do you take those comparisons from?"
"Well, my roommate watches TV and there is a documentary from time to time..."
"That was hilarious... do you want to try it? How it is, standing on water? I can show you."
"I don't think that's a good-"
"Come on, just let me take you there" Awatsuki said, coming to the edge of the basin and reaching for Touma's hand.
"Hey, stop, if you touch that, you will-"
With a sound of shattering glass, the water surface tension broke under confused Awatsuki, with her foot suddenly falling straight onto the steep, holed wall of the emergency pool, and bending under abnormal angle.
(5 MINUTES LATER)
"I am sorry..."
"What are you apologizing for? I must have lost focus, my power just stopped working... I really think I should walk on my own."
"Are you kidding? Your foot is badly sprained, you need to have that treated. I am taking you to Tokiwadai right now..." Touma said, as he marched forward with Awatsuki on his back. "Besides, this will keep you warm, as you are half-wet"
"Thank you... though if you make one perverted comment, I will strangle you on the spot"
"I wouldn't dare to"
As they walked, Touma had one more question to ask
"Awatsuki-san?"
"Hmm?"
"Why were you so cautious with me? You don't like men?"
The ojou-sama on his back sighed and put her head near the nape of his neck.
"I do like them, it's just... I am the only daughter of the owner of high-tech heavy machinery industries. The rest of my siblings are all older brothers. In a men-dominated household, and in our area of expertise, I was seen as more of a liability than anything. Also, my classmates at the time made fun of me that I was not girly enough or that I smell like produce. It stung a lot, as I wasn't actually allowed to help, even if I wanted to. So I asked father to send me to Academy City. He had no problem with that, in fact, he was probably relieved. He tried his best, but he never really knew how to interact with me. When I got here, it turned out that I am in fact one of the strongest in my age group... and sometimes... I just don't know what to do. I am very strong, but I am also a lady. Which one should I be?"
They walked, closing in to Tokiwadai, when Touma replied.
"Why not both? The strength you have is a wonderful gift. You can do so many amazing things with it. I know that it may be hard, and some people may look at you strangely, but being yourself is the best option I know to be happy in a long run. And as a guy, I can confirm that you have nothing to worry about when it comes to your feminine side. It's all there, pretty as- ghhh?! Awash...ki... saah... can't... breaathe..."
"What did I say about perverted comments?!"
"That's totally... different..."
Awatsuki finally released Touma's throat, and was extremely glad that her face was out of his sight, because she was sure she was never flustered like this in her entire life.
{Kongou Mitsuko wants to convey her feelings}
The beach was pearly white, the waves crashed into the shore. The setting sun, the dinner, the music playing in the background. Kamijou Touma, muscular and handsome, kept Kongou Mitsuko close to him as they gazed deeply into each other's eyes.
"Mitsuko, out of the entire world, there is no one and nothing as beautiful as you" said Touma, sparkling in the last rays of daylight.
"While I adore the sweet talk, I think it's time to commence the true show..." Kongou purred back and came closer to her lover "Let us do it, darling"
She closed her eyes, as Touma lifted her chin up
"Mitsuko..."
"Yes, yes, take me whole! Let's kiss as if there was nothing but us!" she exclaimed happily.
And in the next moment, finally, she was kissing him. It felt like nothing she expected before, unlike anything she ever tasted...
Actually, it was almost too strange. It was more cold than she expected... and somewhat... scaly?
Kongou Mitsuko opened her eyes, and noticed that what she was kissing with amorous expression was her boa constrictor, Ekaterina. Last night, Kongou allowed her pet to roam free in the room and the boa decided to coil herself on the bed.
If reptiles could look surprised at all, Ekaterina surely was.
"Hiiiiiiisssss?"
Oh, I am terribly sorry, Ekaterina-chan. It's just... what's even happening to me..." the lovestruck maiden covered her red face with a pillow" It's 3rd time in a row I had this dream... maybe it is trying to tell me something..."
After a moment, her face lit up.
"That's it!"
(LATER)
"Wannai-san, Awatsuki-san, I gathered you here to request your help. I had a dream that convinced me that I have to show Kamijou-san some appreciation" Kongou declared, as the three were sitting by one of the tables in Tokiwadai.
"What kind of dream was that?" Awatsuki asked.
"The exact details are not crucial here" Kongou coughed into her hand, trying to hide the embarrassment" The point is, I feel like I've been using darling's good nature for far too long. It is truly unladylike to leave it unrewarded. And as I am Kongou Mitsuko, it should be obvious that my gift should be special"
"If you want to give him a gift, maybe it's best not to overdo it" Awatsuki suggested "Guy like Kamijou-san won't like anything too fancy."
After a moment of contemplation...
"What about chocolate?" Wannai gave out her idea" I heard once that guys love handmade chocolate. And although it's not White Day or anything, it is a nice and simple gift, that allows to show a lot of originality"
"That's a great idea. We can also bake some small cakes. Then it's decided, we should make Kamijou-san chocolate desserts!"
"Wait... we?"
"While the main part will be mine, you two can contribute. I can see that you want to"
"Thank you, Kongou-sama!"
(LATER)
The three girls, in aprons and hair tied up, gathered in one of the kitchen rooms.
"Okay girls, I got a permit for us to use one of the spare kitchen rooms. Now, all we got to do is follow the recipe. We already did that with curry, how hard can it be?!
(TAKE 1)
"Awatsuki-san, not that hard! The eggshells got in!"
"Sorry..."
(TAKE 2)
"Wannai-san, you added salt instead of sugar. Ow, my tongue... water! Water!"
"Ooops..."
(TAKE 3)
"Ow... It's 4th time my finger got cut... this knife is harder to wield than it looks"
"I will get you another band aid Kongou-san..."
(TAKE 4)
"Why is there a fish inside the chocolate, Awatsuki-san?!"
"I thought it was butter"
"How could you mistake fish for a butter?"
"It was long, round... and I wasn't looking, can we forget about that?!"
(TAKE 5)
"Now, open the flour, Kongou-san..."
POOF! Aero Hand received a handful of powder straight into the face.
Wannai and Awatsuki froze, as Kongou blinked a few times, her face turning into something resembling snow ghost.
She was covered in flour from her arms up and the white powder caused a stinging sensation.
"That was a close call" Wannai exhaled in relief.
Kongou nodded her head, before freezing on the spot. The irritating sensation in her nose didn't suggest anything good.
"Hwah..." she gasped slightly.
"Now, pour it carefully to the bowl..." Awatsuki instructed. As she was turned around, she didn't notice change on her friends face, with Kongou's elegant eyebrows knitting together and her eyes closing.
But Wannai did and ducked for cover. She saw that expression a few times before, when Kongou got swallowed in the dust billowing up from the usage of her own Aero Hand attack.
"Just be careful not..."
To Kongou's defense, she tried to stop herself. She really did try. But she was fighting a losing battle, as it was already too late.
"Achoo!"
Kongou Mitsuko sneezed, lady-likely yet strongly, straight into the flour bag. This caused the kitchen, from walls to the ceiling, with all equipment and people inside, to become purely white. Except precautious Wannai, quick to react to the incoming sneeze of airline heiress, and escaping the white doom under the table.
"... blow it everywhere. Bless you." Awatsuki finished her sentence, trying to get the flour out of the eyes.
The only thing that wasn't white were Kongou's red cheeks.
"Come on, let's get to cleaning"
(AFTER THE CLEANUP, TAKE 6)
"It's on fire! A-Awatsuki-san, the chocolate in the bowl is on fire!"
"What do you mean on fire?!"
"I mean that it is burning and is on fire! Maybe we added some alcohol by accident?! What do I do?!"
"Stop running around with it! You have the ability to control water, just put it down!"
(TAKE 7)
"Kongou-san, it's not so bad..."
"Yes it is! This frosting is so hard to put on the chocolate? Now it looks like something pooped on that cake!"
"For me, it looks more like a deflated balloon"
"Awatsuki-san, you are not helping!"
(TAKE 8)
" It's on fire again!"
"Awatsuki-san, how could you not know that you frost the cookies after baking them?!"
"Now we have to do it again!"
(TAKE 9)
"Wannai-san, I am sorry that I shattered the flask with sweet syrup."
"It's all well and good Kongou-san, we just have to watch so we don't..."
"Kongou-san, I brought the wrapping papeeaaaaaah?!"
SLIP! SLIP! SLIP!
"... huh... slip and fall..."
(AFTER MANY, MANY ATTEMPTS)
The three girls were sitting in the small restaurant, looking at the small box in front of them.
"Finally..."
"After so much suffering..."
"We did it..." Kongou dried her wide brow from sweat, and grinned to herself "Now, I will notify Kamijou that I have something to give to him~"
After she excused herself, Kongou accidentally bumped into another girl, who was just exiting the restaurant with two other people.
"I am sorry... oh, that's you!"
"HUH?! Watch were you... hmm? You are that rich brat from that lost her way into my battle with him... I wondered if I get to see you again..."
Mugino Shizuri glared at Kongou Mitsuko in a way that could make even the bravest cower in fear.
Two companions of Mugino, Hamazura and Kinuhata, looked at Kongou, wondering how she will react.
When Meltdowner showed the slightest sing of being pissed, there were two main options: oppose her or flee. First was usually suicidal, second not always successful.
But Kongou Mitsuko reacted differently. She smiled, snatched Mugino's hand and shook it rapidly
"Come to think of it, you are indirectly responsible for me meeting my soulmate. I am deeply thankful, senpai"
Mugino was so shocked that she couldn't even force out a proper response.
"What-"
"Oh, I know, I am speechless too. Would you consider to be a godmother of my future child? You played a role in me and Kamijou finding each other so that should make it even. Well, you would have to be 3rd godmother because Wannai and Awatsuki naturally come first"
"What the fuck are you talking ab-"
"I know it's a little early to think about children" Kongou smiled obliviously, still shaking Mugino's hand" But that marvellous GAGARS system allowed me to glimpse possibility of my child with Kamijou-san. And it's simply lovely. Here, I will show you"
The screen of Kongou's phone presented the girl with Kamijou's eyes and face shape, but Kongou's hair and brow. Next to her, was a boy with Kongou's eyes and hair, but more spiky than that of a girl. His face looked like a mixture of both Kamijou's and Kongou's influence.
"I would love to have twins. The chance is not that high, but I am allowed to dream. I wonder who would they take after, ohohoho!"
She finally let go of Mugino's hand and bowed slightly.
"Well, I must be off. See you later!"
Mugino stared into space, her eye twitching as Kongou went outside to notify Touma.
"That was weird" noted Kinuhata.
"How dare she..."
"Now now, Mugino, that's no place to be jealous" Hamazura tried to reason with his comrade, but she snapped at him
"WHO THE HELL IS JEALOUS?! It's simply in Kamijou's interest not to waste time with some spoiled, bratty princess"
"Yeah, and that's not a charging meltdowner sphere ready to shoot at Kongou-san's direction"
Mugino exhaled and the sphere disappeared.
"I am not jealous! Over Kamijou?!"
"Well, you are always first to meet him when he has time... or when he doesn't have it, for that matter"
"He is irritating, annoying, and somehow always makes me wet whenever I meet him..."
"Hehe, makes you wet you say..."
"Kinuhata, better think twice, thrice, or even four times if needed, if you want to finish the joke you are about to make. Otherwise, you might end up missing a limb or two"
Kinuhata shut up.
(LATER)
So, in the end, the Anti-Newtonian trio delivered the gift and everyone lived happily ever after?
Well... not exactly.
Soon after Kongou notified Kamijou, the girls exited the restaurant. The sky was dark and heavy from clouds. It was about to start raining in any moment.
But then...
"Please, stop him! Stop the thief!"
A man run passed them, carrying a purse in his hand.
An elder woman desperately pleaded for them to help retrieve the stolen goods. Among them was a precious watch that belonged to her husband.
Not wanting to wait for Anti-Skill, and knowing that Touma would never condemn them for being late because of helping someone in need, they launched into the chase.
They took the chocolates with them. In retrospect, they should leave them in some safe place, but they simply couldn't think of one in the heat of the moment. Besides, they thought the chase would be over in a moment.
But the thief knew the layout of the alleys much better than they did. So they chased and fought for over an hour, chocolates turning into a hot potato. Meanwhile, it started to rain. It was a wall of cold, blinding water that froze to the bone and met everything a wet, slippery mess.
This water finally gave Wannai the advantage in her ability and allowed Awatsuki and Kongou to incapacitate the thief. They took him to the authorities, and the old lady rejoiced, giving each of the girls a peck on the cheek. But after the emotions died down, the trio looked at the chocolate box. And gasped in horror.
Once beautiful, it was now soggy and bent. Fearfully peaking inside, they saw smeary, brown mess. It could have been when someone accidentally hit it with shoulder, or maybe even fell on it. But the result was devastating.
There was no way they could give that to Kamijou Touma. They had failed, didn't think it through. They deluded themselves and didn't want to leave the product of their hard work in someone else's hands. But how could taking it to a chase could be any better?
Kongou Mitsuko felt tears welling in her eyes. She felt hollow and frustrated. She wanted to sit there and curse her own stupidity. But the fact she was most angry about was that once again, she didn't manage to reward Kamijou Touma's actions.
She sat there with empty gaze for who knows how long. What snapped her back to reality was a small sneeze from Wannai. She was shivering and Awatsuki wasn't doing any better.
Kongou got up and spread her fan, which instantly got wet. She did it without any of the usual flare.
"Come on... let's go home"
(NEXT DAY)
Her throat burned and her body ached, as Kongou Mitsuko coughed in the infirmary bed.
"Who would have... thought..." Awatsuki whispered weakly, struggling to speak "that we'll all get sick... at the same time..."
"I guess we are friends through and through..." Wannai also coughed loudly, before taking a tissue from her nightstand and blowing her nose.
The three of them requested to be moved together to the infirmary, but even in each other's company, the feeling of defeat and misery still hung over them.
Kongou touched her cheeks. They were very hot and, from what she could tell from looking in the hand mirror, flushed red.
This wasn't how it was supposed to be. She didn't even get the chance to explain herself to Touma yet, and in truth, she was afraid.
But before she could fall even deeper in self-loathing, there was a knocking at the door.
"Kongou, Wannai, Awatsuki!" It was the voice of their dorm supervisor" You got a gift."
"A gift?"
"From the outside. It was checked and it seems that everything is fine with it. You are lucky, I am not sick and I feel better from just smelling it."
The doors opened and the supervisor rolled in a tray. On it, there was a very big temperature-conserving pot, almost looking like a small cauldron, and a smaller paper bag.
"The boy that left this also gave you this letter, Kongou-san. Now, focus on recovery"
As the doors closed, Kongou looked at the letter, and read it out loud, so Wannai and Awatsuki could hear it too
Kongou-san,
When you didn't show up yesterday, I became worried and went to look around the district. As I found nothing, I tried to reach to Tokiwadai, but only in the morning did I found out, through Misaka, that you are sick. So I went back and prepared the thing you see before you (hopefully they allowed you to have it). It's a soup I once made for my roommate when she got a cold. As it was rather effective, I memorized the recipe. It has tons of ingredients that help the immune system and, at least in my opinion, tastes decently. It has no name, but if I had to give it one, it would be 'Universal Get Well Soup a la Kamijou'. Please share it with Wannai-san and Awatsuki-san, if they are near you. I made enough for few servings for each of you.
I also went with my new roommate, that is crazily good at shooting games, to win some things for you in the arcade. It may not be some fancy things you ojous are accustomed to, but please, accept them as gifts from this poor Kamijou.
Kongou-san, you like snakes, so I got you this soft plushie. I hope Ekaterina-san won't get jealous.
For Wannai-san, I got this small necklace with water drop ornament. Hope she'll like it.
For Awatsuki-san, I thought the hairclip would be a nice addition. I just had a feeling.
I hope you all recover soon and we can then talk about what you wanted with me.
Kamijou Touma
The girls looked at each other
"He really... cares..." Awatsuki whispered.
"Yes, he immediately acted on his compassion... truly wonderful..." Wannai concurred.
"That's darling for you..." Kongou said, her heart feeling as if it could soar into the sky "Now, let's try that soup..."
Not without difficulty, but the three girls finally managed to get their portions of the soup.
It was an aromatic (though their sick noses probably couldn't do it justice), yellow liquid. It didn't look like anything special.
But when they took a sip, all three girls sighed almost instantly.
"So warm..."
"It feels so good..."
"I want to eat more..."
Soon enough, the portions were finished and the trio of sick girls was drowning in warm blissfulness.
"My throat feels much better only after that one portion..." Awatsuki remarked "Maybe this stuff really is good..."
"My sinuses cleared up, even if for a moment" Wannai took a gentle sniff of the brew and sighed yet again" What a good smell..."
"I am sure it will take longer to fully cure us... but it is an excellent start" Kongou smiled in content" darling really outdid himself"
After a moment of silence...
"Oh, let's see the things he got us"
The paper bag was soon taken and the items distributed amongst designated owners.
"That's... so... adorable!" Kongou squealed, hugging the long, plush boa "I will never part with it. How should I name it? Ekaterina II? No, I need something original..."
"Such a lovely necklace..." Wannai examined the silvery chain with a small water drop in the center" M-Maybe I should consider asking him to put it on..."
"Which profile looks better?" Awatsuki smiled, posing with a hairclip in the hair. The small accessory resembled a flower with white center, blue petals, and two golden leaves at the base." Oh, it is so good, that it doesn't really matter"
In their happiness, the misery was completely forgotten.
Two days later, all three made the full recovery. More so, they felt even better than in many times they were healthy before.
"That soup really worked wonders... but now, I truly want to reward Kamijou-san too" Wannai looked at Awatsuki, who nodded vigorously.
"Indeed. I have to show my gratitude, no matter what"
"But... what can we do?"
"Oh ho ho ho~" Kongou laughed, coming from behind them" It just so happens that I thought of a perfect gift. Something practical, personal, and truly establishing us high in the food chain"
"What are you talking about, Kongou-san"
"Let's do..." Kongou whispered something into the ears of two girls. In the next second, Wannai blushed hard and jumped back, while Awatsuki coughed awkwardly, as she glanced at Kongou.
"H-H-Hyeeeh?!"
"K-Kongou-san, are you sure about this?"
"Oh, I surely am!" Kongou smiled deviously, looking her best friends with challenging gaze" I put a lot of thought into it and decided that darling deserves the best. My mind is set. The only question is... are you joining me or not?"
Wannai and Awatsuki looked at each other, before nodding, and turning back to Kongou.
"We were a bit surprised, but if it's for Kamijou... we shall do it"